We've passed the midway point of the college football season, but it's worth mentioning that two Texas Longhorns played well enough through the first six games of the season to earn Midseason All-Big 12 honors from ESPN.com.

Junior Hassan Ridgeway was one of two tackles selected to the team while true freshman Malik Jefferson was one of three linebackers selected. Their efforts through the 24-17 win over Oklahoma were taken into account, which at the time was arguably the best game of the season for both players.

After Texas' 23-9 win over Kansas State Jefferson ranks second on the team in tackles (39). He's currently leading all Longhorn defenders with 2.5 sacks and six tackles for loss.

Ridgeway's two sacks are tied for second on the team and he's recorded 4.5 tackles for loss, but his presence and consistent play has opened it up for others to make plays during Texas' two-game winning streak. A 34-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Oklahoma State accounts for one of three defensive touchdowns for the Longhorns this season.

As Texas (3-4, 2-2 in the Big 12) prepares to face Iowa State (2-5, 1-3) on Saturday (6 p.m., FOX Sports 1) Jefferson and Ridgeway are pacing a defense that leads in the Big 12 in fewest rushing yards allowed (133.2) during Big 12 play.