Over the next two weeks, we will be examining the most indispensable player for every team in the Big 12. In other words, the player each team could least afford to lose to injury.

We're knocking on wood before we turn in these posts; so no need to worry about a jinx.

We continue below with the Baylor Bears.

Most indispensable player: Offensive tackle Spencer Drango.

2014 stats: Started all 13 games at left tackle. He was named Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year and earned All-Big 12 honors for an offense that averaged 6.64 yards per play and 3.28 points per drive.

Why BU can't afford to lose him: Art Briles' program has lost twice, going 20-2, in the past two seasons with Drango as a starter. When he missed the final four games of 2013 with a back injury, his value became readily apparent as the Bears went from undefeated to 2-2 in their final two games.

While his teammates -- like Bryce Petty and Antwan Goodley — break records and compile SportsCenter highlight reels, Drango is the centerpiece of the platform BU's offense is built upon. The senior is a solid pass blocker and strong run blocker who allows new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles to build BU's offense with the confidence of having Drango as a safety net.

Drango enters the season with 35 career starts, making him extremely experienced, supremely talented and committed to winning a third Big 12 title. Sophomore Tanner Thrift, a former defensive lineman, sits behind Drango on the depth chart but has just six games of experience and zero starts as a redshirt freshman.

Drango, who could end up being a first round NFL draft pick, returned to BU with an eye on battling for a national title and should be a centerpiece for one of the nation's best offenses for the fourth straight season.