Big Ten: Michigan Wolverines
BuckeyeNation
Brad Bournival writes
: The Buckeyes are in good shape at most recruiting needs for the 2014 class with one notable exception.
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes: 2016 QB Todd LaRocca sent some film to Penn State, and the Nittany Lions already have responded positively.
WolverineNation
Tom VanHaaren writes: Jabrill Peppers, the nation’s No. 2 prospect, will announce his decision on Sunday on ESPNU. Here’s a timeline of events in Peppers’ recruitment leading up to his decision.
VanHaaren writes: Peppers enjoys his ties to 1990s rap icons Naughty by Nature, who grew up with Peppers’ father in New Jersey.
Brad Bournival writes
: The Buckeyes are in good shape at most recruiting needs for the 2014 class with one notable exception.
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes
: 2016 QB Todd LaRocca sent some film to Penn State, and the Nittany Lions already have responded positively.
WolverineNation
Tom VanHaaren writes
: Jabrill Peppers, the nation’s No. 2 prospect, will announce his decision on Sunday on ESPNU. Here’s a timeline of events in Peppers’ recruitment leading up to his decision.
VanHaaren writes
: Peppers enjoys his ties to 1990s rap icons Naughty by Nature, who grew up with Peppers’ father in New Jersey.
Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday weekend.
Kevin from Minneapolis writes: Adam, Morgan Burke's comments comparing the difference in the number of varsity sports sponsored by Big Ten and SEC athletic departments translating to on the field performance are rather perplexing, but he is really missing the other half of the argument. If you want to correlate the business side of college football with wins/losses, the focal point has to be on the investment in facilities and the resulting impact on recruiting. It is hard to make an argument that having to support additional non-revenue sports causes Big Ten teams to lag behind when in recent years we have seen programs like Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Michigan hurling millions at (football only) Student Performance Centers. Heck, Nebraska's weight room is said by some as being the best in the country, trumping even the SEC. I could see how non-revenue sports affect the Big Ten athletic departments operating in the red, but I'm not buying this argument from those with a net profit.
Adam Rittenberg: Good points here, Kevin. The Big Ten isn't lagging behind in football facilities and boasts some of the best stadiums/practice complexes in the FBS. Every team in the league either has completed a renovation or a new project, is in the construction process (Iowa, Wisconsin) or is raising funds (Northwestern). But facilities are only one piece of the recruiting process. Assistant coaches are another, and Big Ten programs aren't as willing to throw boatloads of money at top assistants as SEC programs, in part because they have more sports to fund. There have been some increases in this area in recent years, but on average, Big Ten assistants aren't making what SEC assistants earn. I recently asked Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith, whose department sponsors 36 sports, if Big Ten programs have the resources to compete nationally in football. He said they do. Still, Burke makes a notable point about the different athletic models and football being a religion in the South. When football season ends, most Big Ten fans turn their attention to basketball. That's not the same in the SEC. Football is a bigger deal in that region year-round.
Mike H. from Pittsburgh writes: Regarding the Big Ten and SEC having different models: While it may slightly hurt the Big Ten, in relation to the SEC, not devoting all of its revenue to football, it can not be blamed for the struggles. First of all, like the high standard of academics being important, having broader and more sports programs is advantageous and respectable. True most have low interest and lose money, but as a recent graduate, many students take pride in all of their teams. I think it is awesome that PSU has one of the best all-around sports programs in the country. While as a football writer you could care less about non-revenue sports, the broad sports programs most importantly provide opportunities for more student-athletes to get a quality education while fulfilling dreams of playing at the college level. Yes it takes some money away from football but I am pretty sure none of the large Big Ten football programs are struggling for facilities, revenue, etc.
Adam Rittenberg: Mike, there's definitely value in having a truly broad-based athletic program, and many Big Ten fans like you celebrate all the teams, not just the ones generating revenue. The broad-based programs and the opportunities provided are integral parts of the Big Ten's athletic culture and won't change. It's why Nebraska has been such a good fit in the league so far. I also agree the different program models can't be used as an excuse for the Big Ten's football struggles. There are other factors involved. But it makes it tough for the Big Ten to catch the SEC when the SEC has such a clear football focus plus more elite recruits living in its backyard.
Travis from Madison, Wis., writes: I have a question pertaining to the love OSU is getting for next season. Are we, and by we I mean you (ESPN), overlooking their losses on defense? I understand they have Roby and Shazier, both excellent players, but otherwise they will be wading in uncharted waters. Clearly they have talent coming in to replace the departed starters, but the instances of talented replacements not panning out are endless. I'm not trying to be a hater, I'll be the first to admit their offense looks to be extremely good and Braxton Miller is deserving of his Heisman chatter, and seeing how their schedule might be the easiest schedule I've seen in recent memory, I too would declare them favorites to win the B1G. However, we saw plenty of squeaker games by OSU last season against teams that look to be much improved, so I'm just wondering if those who are crowning OSU B1G champs are doing so while considering their lack of experience on defense.
Adam Rittenberg: Travis, Brian and I recognize Ohio State's question marks on defense and the fact that, despite a 12-0 record, the Buckeyes easily could have dropped a few games last season. Ohio State wasn't a dominant team in 2012. There are some significant challenges on defense, especially with the defensive line, and losing Shazier and, to a lesser extent, Roby to injury could be devastating for Ohio State. But when you look at the schedule, which includes Wisconsin and Penn State in Columbus, plus the returning firepower on offense and another full offseason under Urban Meyer and his staff, Ohio State's potential for 2013 can't be ignored. The Buckeyes' recruiting has been exceptional, especially along the defensive line, the No. 1 area of need right now. When you take everything into account, it's hard not to pick Ohio State to win the league. We're not crowning anyone at this point and recognize the challenges Ohio State faces on defense, but the Buckeyes have a leg up on the rest of the league entering the fall.
Brian from Atlanta writes: Adam, being a CA boy may be clouding your judgement a little. Switching from 3 B12 bowls and 1 P12 bowl to 3 P12 bowls and maybe no B12 bowl doesn't improve variety and it makes for much longer bowl trips. That's fine for the Rose Bowl, but who wants to travel 2000 miles to SF for a mediocre bowl? In addition, the B10 lost a bastion of alumni in AZ. At best this is a wash to me. I'd rather see a balanced slate of 2 each versus the ACC, B12, P12 and SEC plus 1 MAC game (1 CA, 1 AZ, 2 TX, 2 FL, NY, MI, other).
Adam Rittenberg: Brian, you bring up an important point about the Big Ten-Big 12 games going away in the new lineup. I liked the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl and so did Big Ten fans who attended the game, but I hear that a lower payout stemming from the Fiesta Bowl mess turned off the Big Ten from continuing the agreement. More of a business move than anything. Overall, I haven't loved the Big Ten-Big 12 matchups because it always seems like the Big 12 team is a huge favorite (i.e. Oklahoma State-Purdue). If there's a way to create more evenly matched postseason pairings between the two leagues, I'm all for it. But my main point is that the Big Ten has much more in common with the Pac-12 than any other league. The Rose Bowl matchup isn't enough, especially when the traditional champion vs. champion pairing is happening less and less often. That's a fair point about the travel distance for smaller bowls, but the Holiday Bowl isn't a small-potatoes game, and the Kraft Fight Hunger will increase its profile by moving to the 49ers' new stadium in 2014. Plus, there are major clusters of Big Ten alumni in California who can easily attend both games.
Christopher from Middleton, Wis., writes: When Wisconsin offensive coordinator Paul Chryst left Wisconsin to become Pitt's Head coach for the 2012 season many fans were concerned that Wisconsin had lost the man that was most responsible for the team's success. The 2012 Wisconsin team complete with an overhaul of new assistant coaches struggled on offense. Wisconsin now has a new head coach after Bret Bielema left for Arkansas. Will Wisconsin return to their dominating offensive ways? Will Bielema duplicate the offense that he had at Wisconsin at Arkansas? Will Paul Chryst prove to be the best coach of the three?
Adam Rittenberg: Christopher, time will tell whether Christ, Bielema or Gary Andersen proves to be the best coach, but Chryst is off to a rocky start at Pitt. The Panthers went 6-7 in his first season, endured multiple off-field incidents and had a key player transfer this spring. Chryst needs to stabilize things on the hilltop. He's a tremendous offensive coach, but whether he can be a great CEO and leader for a program remains to be seen. Most Wisconsin fans can't stand Bielema, but the guy had a lot of success and navigated the Badgers through a difficult stretch in 2008 to get back to the top of the Big Ten. He'll keep a similar offensive structure at Arkansas under Jim Chaney. Wisconsin also won't fundamentally change on offense under Andersen and coordinator Andy Ludwig, who runs a similar West Coast system to Chryst. Will the Badgers put up the numbers they did in 2010 and 2011? Probably not. But if they continue to recruit dynamic running backs and massive offensive linemen, they should be fine on that side of the ball. I also think Andersen could take the defense from solid to great over time through his recruiting efforts.
Chris from Traverse City, Mich., writes: It is very costly to get to Florida, let alone California Adam. 3 bowl games in California? Really? This eliminates the little guy for those bowl games but let's the rich enjoy California I guess. However, I like the history of the Holiday Bowl, but wish we could have added another East Coast bowl like the Belk or Military, or even the Liberty Bowl.
Adam Rittenberg: I hear ya, Chris, but the Big Ten will have the Music City Bowl in Nashville in three of the next six years as well as the Pinstripe Bowl (I know New York is expensive, but it's closer) and most likely the new Detroit Lions Bowl. The other thing to keep in mind is Big Ten fans/alums are really spread out nationally, so I don't know if it's just the "rich guys" who can get to Florida and California. There are a lot of people already living in or close to those states.
Spartan Fan from the Sunshine State writes: Adam, my question is more of a comment. With the schedule set up as it is, at least on paper it would appear the Spartans should have a pretty good shot at going undefeated in regular season play. What do you think? Bye weeks after N.D. and Michigan should set them up nicely.
Adam Rittenberg: Love the optimism, Sunshine State, although you might be getting a little too much sun. Michigan State lost six games last season, and while five were close losses, it's hard to imagine all of those will swing in the Spartans' favor this season. The good news is Michigan State once again boasts a nationally elite defense. The semi-good news is Michigan State doesn't need its offense to be like Oregon's or Texas A&M's to be in position to win most games. The bad news is the offense has a ton of question marks, from quarterback to running back to receiver to tight end. Michigan State still must travel to Notre Dame, to Nebraska and to Northwestern. All three of those teams recorded double-digit wins a year ago. I also put very little stock into the timing of open weeks. Although they can help teams get healthy, they often don't translate to wins on the field. Can Michigan State win the Legends division? Sure. Will the Spartans be better this season? I think they will. But they aren't going undefeated.
John from Houston writes: Just wondering, how do Michigan and MSU divide up the state? As in: is Michigan more popular in the southern parts and MSU more popular in the north parts? Or is Michigan more popular in the cities while MSU is more popular in the rural areas? Or do they both divide up the state exactly equal?
Adam Rittenberg: As Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio often says, you're either green or blue in that state. Michigan State is more popular in the western half of the state, which includes cities like Grand Rapids but obviously isn't as populated as the Detroit area. Michigan has a bigger cluster of fans closer to its campus in the eastern portion of the state, although there's a growing pocket of blue in the Grand Rapids/Holland area. If you split the state along Interstate 69 and include the Lansing area in the west/MSU portion, you can get a fairly good idea of how the allegiances break down.
Kevin from Minneapolis writes: Adam, Morgan Burke's comments comparing the difference in the number of varsity sports sponsored by Big Ten and SEC athletic departments translating to on the field performance are rather perplexing, but he is really missing the other half of the argument. If you want to correlate the business side of college football with wins/losses, the focal point has to be on the investment in facilities and the resulting impact on recruiting. It is hard to make an argument that having to support additional non-revenue sports causes Big Ten teams to lag behind when in recent years we have seen programs like Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Michigan hurling millions at (football only) Student Performance Centers. Heck, Nebraska's weight room is said by some as being the best in the country, trumping even the SEC. I could see how non-revenue sports affect the Big Ten athletic departments operating in the red, but I'm not buying this argument from those with a net profit.
Adam Rittenberg: Good points here, Kevin. The Big Ten isn't lagging behind in football facilities and boasts some of the best stadiums/practice complexes in the FBS. Every team in the league either has completed a renovation or a new project, is in the construction process (Iowa, Wisconsin) or is raising funds (Northwestern). But facilities are only one piece of the recruiting process. Assistant coaches are another, and Big Ten programs aren't as willing to throw boatloads of money at top assistants as SEC programs, in part because they have more sports to fund. There have been some increases in this area in recent years, but on average, Big Ten assistants aren't making what SEC assistants earn. I recently asked Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith, whose department sponsors 36 sports, if Big Ten programs have the resources to compete nationally in football. He said they do. Still, Burke makes a notable point about the different athletic models and football being a religion in the South. When football season ends, most Big Ten fans turn their attention to basketball. That's not the same in the SEC. Football is a bigger deal in that region year-round.
Mike H. from Pittsburgh writes: Regarding the Big Ten and SEC having different models: While it may slightly hurt the Big Ten, in relation to the SEC, not devoting all of its revenue to football, it can not be blamed for the struggles. First of all, like the high standard of academics being important, having broader and more sports programs is advantageous and respectable. True most have low interest and lose money, but as a recent graduate, many students take pride in all of their teams. I think it is awesome that PSU has one of the best all-around sports programs in the country. While as a football writer you could care less about non-revenue sports, the broad sports programs most importantly provide opportunities for more student-athletes to get a quality education while fulfilling dreams of playing at the college level. Yes it takes some money away from football but I am pretty sure none of the large Big Ten football programs are struggling for facilities, revenue, etc.
Adam Rittenberg: Mike, there's definitely value in having a truly broad-based athletic program, and many Big Ten fans like you celebrate all the teams, not just the ones generating revenue. The broad-based programs and the opportunities provided are integral parts of the Big Ten's athletic culture and won't change. It's why Nebraska has been such a good fit in the league so far. I also agree the different program models can't be used as an excuse for the Big Ten's football struggles. There are other factors involved. But it makes it tough for the Big Ten to catch the SEC when the SEC has such a clear football focus plus more elite recruits living in its backyard.
Travis from Madison, Wis., writes: I have a question pertaining to the love OSU is getting for next season. Are we, and by we I mean you (ESPN), overlooking their losses on defense? I understand they have Roby and Shazier, both excellent players, but otherwise they will be wading in uncharted waters. Clearly they have talent coming in to replace the departed starters, but the instances of talented replacements not panning out are endless. I'm not trying to be a hater, I'll be the first to admit their offense looks to be extremely good and Braxton Miller is deserving of his Heisman chatter, and seeing how their schedule might be the easiest schedule I've seen in recent memory, I too would declare them favorites to win the B1G. However, we saw plenty of squeaker games by OSU last season against teams that look to be much improved, so I'm just wondering if those who are crowning OSU B1G champs are doing so while considering their lack of experience on defense.
Adam Rittenberg: Travis, Brian and I recognize Ohio State's question marks on defense and the fact that, despite a 12-0 record, the Buckeyes easily could have dropped a few games last season. Ohio State wasn't a dominant team in 2012. There are some significant challenges on defense, especially with the defensive line, and losing Shazier and, to a lesser extent, Roby to injury could be devastating for Ohio State. But when you look at the schedule, which includes Wisconsin and Penn State in Columbus, plus the returning firepower on offense and another full offseason under Urban Meyer and his staff, Ohio State's potential for 2013 can't be ignored. The Buckeyes' recruiting has been exceptional, especially along the defensive line, the No. 1 area of need right now. When you take everything into account, it's hard not to pick Ohio State to win the league. We're not crowning anyone at this point and recognize the challenges Ohio State faces on defense, but the Buckeyes have a leg up on the rest of the league entering the fall.
Brian from Atlanta writes: Adam, being a CA boy may be clouding your judgement a little. Switching from 3 B12 bowls and 1 P12 bowl to 3 P12 bowls and maybe no B12 bowl doesn't improve variety and it makes for much longer bowl trips. That's fine for the Rose Bowl, but who wants to travel 2000 miles to SF for a mediocre bowl? In addition, the B10 lost a bastion of alumni in AZ. At best this is a wash to me. I'd rather see a balanced slate of 2 each versus the ACC, B12, P12 and SEC plus 1 MAC game (1 CA, 1 AZ, 2 TX, 2 FL, NY, MI, other).
Adam Rittenberg: Brian, you bring up an important point about the Big Ten-Big 12 games going away in the new lineup. I liked the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl and so did Big Ten fans who attended the game, but I hear that a lower payout stemming from the Fiesta Bowl mess turned off the Big Ten from continuing the agreement. More of a business move than anything. Overall, I haven't loved the Big Ten-Big 12 matchups because it always seems like the Big 12 team is a huge favorite (i.e. Oklahoma State-Purdue). If there's a way to create more evenly matched postseason pairings between the two leagues, I'm all for it. But my main point is that the Big Ten has much more in common with the Pac-12 than any other league. The Rose Bowl matchup isn't enough, especially when the traditional champion vs. champion pairing is happening less and less often. That's a fair point about the travel distance for smaller bowls, but the Holiday Bowl isn't a small-potatoes game, and the Kraft Fight Hunger will increase its profile by moving to the 49ers' new stadium in 2014. Plus, there are major clusters of Big Ten alumni in California who can easily attend both games.
Christopher from Middleton, Wis., writes: When Wisconsin offensive coordinator Paul Chryst left Wisconsin to become Pitt's Head coach for the 2012 season many fans were concerned that Wisconsin had lost the man that was most responsible for the team's success. The 2012 Wisconsin team complete with an overhaul of new assistant coaches struggled on offense. Wisconsin now has a new head coach after Bret Bielema left for Arkansas. Will Wisconsin return to their dominating offensive ways? Will Bielema duplicate the offense that he had at Wisconsin at Arkansas? Will Paul Chryst prove to be the best coach of the three?
Adam Rittenberg: Christopher, time will tell whether Christ, Bielema or Gary Andersen proves to be the best coach, but Chryst is off to a rocky start at Pitt. The Panthers went 6-7 in his first season, endured multiple off-field incidents and had a key player transfer this spring. Chryst needs to stabilize things on the hilltop. He's a tremendous offensive coach, but whether he can be a great CEO and leader for a program remains to be seen. Most Wisconsin fans can't stand Bielema, but the guy had a lot of success and navigated the Badgers through a difficult stretch in 2008 to get back to the top of the Big Ten. He'll keep a similar offensive structure at Arkansas under Jim Chaney. Wisconsin also won't fundamentally change on offense under Andersen and coordinator Andy Ludwig, who runs a similar West Coast system to Chryst. Will the Badgers put up the numbers they did in 2010 and 2011? Probably not. But if they continue to recruit dynamic running backs and massive offensive linemen, they should be fine on that side of the ball. I also think Andersen could take the defense from solid to great over time through his recruiting efforts.
Chris from Traverse City, Mich., writes: It is very costly to get to Florida, let alone California Adam. 3 bowl games in California? Really? This eliminates the little guy for those bowl games but let's the rich enjoy California I guess. However, I like the history of the Holiday Bowl, but wish we could have added another East Coast bowl like the Belk or Military, or even the Liberty Bowl.
Adam Rittenberg: I hear ya, Chris, but the Big Ten will have the Music City Bowl in Nashville in three of the next six years as well as the Pinstripe Bowl (I know New York is expensive, but it's closer) and most likely the new Detroit Lions Bowl. The other thing to keep in mind is Big Ten fans/alums are really spread out nationally, so I don't know if it's just the "rich guys" who can get to Florida and California. There are a lot of people already living in or close to those states.
Spartan Fan from the Sunshine State writes: Adam, my question is more of a comment. With the schedule set up as it is, at least on paper it would appear the Spartans should have a pretty good shot at going undefeated in regular season play. What do you think? Bye weeks after N.D. and Michigan should set them up nicely.
Adam Rittenberg: Love the optimism, Sunshine State, although you might be getting a little too much sun. Michigan State lost six games last season, and while five were close losses, it's hard to imagine all of those will swing in the Spartans' favor this season. The good news is Michigan State once again boasts a nationally elite defense. The semi-good news is Michigan State doesn't need its offense to be like Oregon's or Texas A&M's to be in position to win most games. The bad news is the offense has a ton of question marks, from quarterback to running back to receiver to tight end. Michigan State still must travel to Notre Dame, to Nebraska and to Northwestern. All three of those teams recorded double-digit wins a year ago. I also put very little stock into the timing of open weeks. Although they can help teams get healthy, they often don't translate to wins on the field. Can Michigan State win the Legends division? Sure. Will the Spartans be better this season? I think they will. But they aren't going undefeated.
John from Houston writes: Just wondering, how do Michigan and MSU divide up the state? As in: is Michigan more popular in the southern parts and MSU more popular in the north parts? Or is Michigan more popular in the cities while MSU is more popular in the rural areas? Or do they both divide up the state exactly equal?
Adam Rittenberg: As Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio often says, you're either green or blue in that state. Michigan State is more popular in the western half of the state, which includes cities like Grand Rapids but obviously isn't as populated as the Detroit area. Michigan has a bigger cluster of fans closer to its campus in the eastern portion of the state, although there's a growing pocket of blue in the Grand Rapids/Holland area. If you split the state along Interstate 69 and include the Lansing area in the west/MSU portion, you can get a fairly good idea of how the allegiances break down.
Michigan's most important game of 2013 -- outside of Ohio State, obviously -- is the Nov. 9 contest against Nebraska.
The Big Ten announced several homecoming kickoff times on Thursday. Now we have a few more, as well as the kickoff time for the third installment of the Heroes Game.
The following games will all be on the ESPN/ABC family of networks (all times ET):
Sept. 28: Iowa at Minnesota, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Oct. 5: Minnesota at Michigan, 3:30 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Oct. 19: Iowa at Ohio State, 3:30 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Nov. 29: Iowa at Nebraska, Noon, ABC
Despite an ugly 4-8 season last year, Iowa will still be getting plenty of national TV exposure this season. The Heroes Game between the Hawkeyes and Nebraska once again gets a big showcase on the Friday after Thanksgiving, a slot the two schools intend to keep for the foreseeable future.
The following games will all be on the ESPN/ABC family of networks (all times ET):
Sept. 28: Iowa at Minnesota, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Oct. 5: Minnesota at Michigan, 3:30 p.m., ABC, ESPN or ESPN2
Oct. 19: Iowa at Ohio State, 3:30 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Nov. 29: Iowa at Nebraska, Noon, ABC
Despite an ugly 4-8 season last year, Iowa will still be getting plenty of national TV exposure this season. The Heroes Game between the Hawkeyes and Nebraska once again gets a big showcase on the Friday after Thanksgiving, a slot the two schools intend to keep for the foreseeable future.
Have a great and safe Memorial Day weekend, everybody.
- Ohio State landed the third linebacker in its 2014 class in Akron's Dante Booker. Former Buckeye Ray Small apologized for his missteps.
- Brady Hoke doesn't know where Michigan's "Not in Ohio" footballs came from. Dave Brandon is not a fan of parity-based scheduling. Fitz Toussaint is fired up to regain his starting tailback job.
- Mark Hollis recalls the process of hiring Mark Dantonio at Michigan State. The son of former Spartans star Jim Morrissey is becoming a big-time prospect. Le'Veon Bell is drawing some rave reviews with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Bill O'Brien is comfortable with John Butler as his defensive coordinator. Eugene Lewis should help Penn State at receiver and in the return game. Adam Breneman won a national honor for his charity work.
- Eric Crouch expresses regrets about how he handled his NFL experience. A future Husker is trying to finish strong in his high school track career.
- A pair of twins who signed with Pitt could transfer to Purdue. A Q&A with Boilers offensive coordinator John Shoop.
- Landing Wes Lunt would be a boost for Tim Beckman and Illinois. Paul Myerberg previews the Illini, whom he ranks No. 110 in the country.
- Choosing the best Iowa players of the Kirk Ferentz era. How Big Ten division re-alignment will affect the pocketbooks of Hawkeyes' fans.
- Northwestern freshman running back Warren Long has West Coast roots, a talent for the guitar and an interest in becoming a barber.
- Wisconsin has a schedule built for success.
- Minnesota's Ra'Shede Hageman is getting some national notice.
BuckeyeNation
Austin Ward writes: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
Brad Bournival writes: Dante Booker, a four-star LB out of Akron, joins the 2014 Buckeyes class, picking OSU over a surging Notre Dame.
Bournival writes: Here are the top five uncommitted CB targets who have OSU offers.
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
Moyer writes: Here are the top 10 defensive players the Nittany Lions will face this season.
WolverineNation
Michael Rothstein writes: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
WolverineNation roundtable:: The staff tackles questions about the No. 21 jersey, recruiting surprises and whom to follow on Twitter.
Austin Ward writes
: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
Brad Bournival writes
: Dante Booker, a four-star LB out of Akron, joins the 2014 Buckeyes class, picking OSU over a surging Notre Dame.
Bournival writes
: Here are the top five uncommitted CB targets who have OSU offers.
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes
: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
Moyer writes
: Here are the top 10 defensive players the Nittany Lions will face this season.
WolverineNation
Michael Rothstein writes
: Here are the player power rankings after spring practice.
WolverineNation roundtable:
: The staff tackles questions about the No. 21 jersey, recruiting surprises and whom to follow on Twitter.
Good job filling up the mailbag during a slow time in college football. Let's do the question-and-answer session.
Andy from Lincoln, Neb., writes: Do you think the Big Ten's weak crossover schedule in 2014 could potentially prevent a one-loss team, such as Michigan, Wisconsin, or Nebraska, from being a part of the four-team College Football Playoff? I could see Michigan losing to Ohio State in 2014, not making the Big Ten championship and being left out of the CFP. Another possible scenario is an undefeated Wisconsin or Nebraska team losing in the Big Ten championship and being out of the CFP. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: The crossover schedule won't help, but the biggest hindrance to a one-loss, non-Big Ten champion making the playoff next year is the perception that the league is not that strong. The Big Ten will need to perform well this year and win some big nonconference games in 2014 to have any chance of putting two teams in the four-team playoff, which still seems like a long shot. Some 2014 out-of-league games like Michigan-Notre Dame, Ohio State-Virginia Tech and Nebraska-Miami could bolster the league's case. Wisconsin's 2014 non-league slate -- highlighted by Washington State and USF -- will leave the Badgers little room for error.
Rob NitLion from Morristown, N.J. writes: You "asked" (rhetorically) the wrong question in your recent blog post. The question is NOT "what do the Detroit Lions know about college football/bowl games" but "What is the draw for B1G fans to want to travel to Detroit in the winter...or in any season for that matter?" Is this really a destination that B1G fan bases want to travel to to see two mediocre teams face off in the post season? If my Nittany Lions finish 6-6 and make a bowl game (not for the next couple of years), do you really think I want to see them face a 6-6 ACC team (alright maybe Pitt) in any place other than a warm, sunny distination with other attractions to see as well as a football game? Can anyone say Detroit is a "winter destination" unless it's the SuperBowl?
Brian Bennett: First off, Rob, let's get the joke right. I asked, what do the Lions know about postseason football, a little jab at that organization's utter lack of playoff success. As for Detroit, well, there are casinos right by Ford Field, some nice Greek restaurants and, um, yeah. Let's be honest, that city is no one's idea of a great winter holiday spot. But the bowl is also likely to take 6-6 type teams, and when you finish with that kind of record, deep in the Big Ten standings, you don't really get to be choosy. The best thing about Detroit is that it's very close for most Big Ten fan bases, and if the bowl replaces the MAC with the ACC as the other tie-in, that has the potential to create some interesting games. And as I wrote, Big Ten fans are often complaining about how they play virtual road games during bowl season. Here's your Midwest bowl. Embrace it.
Mochila from Grand Rapids, Mich., writes: A fellow reader indicated that MSU's secondary will not be very good this year due to their spring game performance and past dependence on Johnny Adams to operate on an island. I think the secondary has the potential to be improved considering MSU returns two All-Big Ten performers in Darqueze Dennard and Isaiah Lewis, Kurtis Drummond at the other safety position, who played very well last year, and a young Trae Waynes at the other CB position who started and performed very well in the bowl game. Do you think MSU's secondary will improve, regress, or stay roughly the same?
Brian Bennett: Adams was the Spartans' second-best corner last year, as Dennard outplayed him the entire season. Michigan State's secondary played well in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl without Adams, who was injured. I really like the potential of Waynes, and I think the Spartans will be just as good if not better in the defensive backfield.
Vince from Phoenix, writes: Which game on Michigan's 2013 schedule do they have to win to (finally) win the Legends Division?
Brian Bennett: Winning all of them would be nice. The one that obviously sticks out is the Nov. 9 game at home against Nebraska, but it's probably more the three-game stretch that includes a road game at Michigan State the previous weekend and a trip to Northwestern on Nov. 16 that will make or break the Wolverines in the Legends race. Remember that road losses to the eventual division champions (at Michigan State in 2011 and at Nebraska last year) were what doomed Michigan the past two seasons. Brady Hoke's teams have been really good at home but are going to have to win away from the Big House to bring home a division championship.
K. Norris from Detroit writes: Hello! Not that I disagree with the overall intent of Mr. Ted Miller's post earlier this week, but I will come rushing to the support of my 2 favorite Big Ten bloggers. Regarding the following quote: "Not to be outdone in prognosticative tomfoolery, the Big Ten blog picked Michigan State to win the conference. What were those guys thinking?" I would educate Mr. Miller that the 2012 Spartans did lose 4 games by a combined total of 10 points. It was the difference between 6-6 & 10-2 season. The team in the national championship game (Notre Dame) did only win by 17 against MSU. Yes, the Spartans were unable to find the extra gear when it was necessary to earn the 'W' at the end of games last year. That being said, it really was not a bad pick even from a national perspective. (Yes, green "Kool-Aid" tastes horrible.)
Brian Bennett: I'm pretty sure this is the first time in about eight months that anyone has told us our Michigan State title pick was not bad. In all seriousness, we clearly underestimated the inexperience of the Spartans passing game and gave too much credit to their offensive line. But 2012 was a weird year, considering that a team that finished 7-5 in the regular season (Wisconsin) went to the Rose Bowl -- and lost at home to Michigan State, I might add.
@sammyj108 from Twitter writes: Could the Hoosiers really play 3 quarterbacks? Or a two-quarterback system? Or just pick a starter based on matchups week to week?
Brian Bennett: Indiana coach Kevin Wilson wanted to see someone among Nate Sudfeld, Cameron Coffman and Tre Roberson really stand out this spring, but they all played pretty equally. Ideally, he'd like to redshirt either Sudfeld or Coffman this year and have one main quarterback play. The problem is that Roberson is clearly the best runner but needs to improve as a passer, while Sudfeld and Coffman are both good passers but not great runners. I asked Wilson this spring whether he'd be comfortable playing a two-quarterback system, as he did last year after Roberson got hurt. "I don't know if you want one in, one out," he said. "I'd love to see one guy totally separate ... but if not, we can play more than one. I want to keep them all happy, and I want to keep them all here. But more than anything, we've got to win."
Jay from Cincinnati writes: I am a little worried about Ohio State's recruiting class this year so far. I know it's early but seems like to would be better at this point.
Brian Bennett: Is Urban Meyer still the head coach? Then I'm not worried at all. He's one of the best closers in the game. If you're worried about the Buckeyes' recruiting in late May, take a deep breath.
Jay from Arlington writes: Title drought? Who cares. It is not like most of the SEC's titles during their so-called streak are legit anyway. And honestly, it is a lot easier to get to the BCS title game when you only have to beat one or two good teams a year, which is all that is required of SEC teams due, in no small part, to media bias. Don't sell the Big Ten short. Penn State has every right to claim a share of the 2005 title having lost one game directly due to officiating. While Penn State lost a game a lot closer than the score, the 2009 Rose Bowl between Penn State and USC matched the top two teams in the country while the Fiesta Bowl matched the third and fourth best team in Texas and Ohio State. Conversely the title game set up the sixth best team (Florida) versus the eighth in Oklahoma.
Brian Bennett: I enjoy your theories and would like to subscribe to your newsletter. Revisionist history aside, however, the records are what they are. Seven straight titles trumps every argument.
John from Iowa writes: In response you your Hope springs article: You have some misinformation posted when you talk about how many teams from each conference have made a BCS title game. The SEC has sent 4 teams not 5. They are: Tennessee, LSU, Florida, and Alabama. Also when you talk about the Big 12 sending 3 teams to the Big 10's only 1 team. One of those teams was Nebraska so you're essentially using the traditional power of one of our own teams to make your point about the Big Ten not being traditionally good.
Brian Bennett: Wow, Auburn fans must be steamed that John has already forgotten their 2011 national title. First Toomer's Oaks, and now this. I also find it funny that we get a lot of angry comments whenever we include Big-12 era Nebraska teams and coaches in our polls and lists, yet you want to include the Huskers when it might help out.
GOB Bluth from Gobias Industries, Calif., writes: Have you seen Franklin? I heard he's in Portugal. That's in South America, right?
Brian Bennett: Did you check the dryer? He has had some trouble down there. If you go looking south of the border, watch out for Hermanos. C'mon!
Andy from Lincoln, Neb., writes: Do you think the Big Ten's weak crossover schedule in 2014 could potentially prevent a one-loss team, such as Michigan, Wisconsin, or Nebraska, from being a part of the four-team College Football Playoff? I could see Michigan losing to Ohio State in 2014, not making the Big Ten championship and being left out of the CFP. Another possible scenario is an undefeated Wisconsin or Nebraska team losing in the Big Ten championship and being out of the CFP. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: The crossover schedule won't help, but the biggest hindrance to a one-loss, non-Big Ten champion making the playoff next year is the perception that the league is not that strong. The Big Ten will need to perform well this year and win some big nonconference games in 2014 to have any chance of putting two teams in the four-team playoff, which still seems like a long shot. Some 2014 out-of-league games like Michigan-Notre Dame, Ohio State-Virginia Tech and Nebraska-Miami could bolster the league's case. Wisconsin's 2014 non-league slate -- highlighted by Washington State and USF -- will leave the Badgers little room for error.
Rob NitLion from Morristown, N.J. writes: You "asked" (rhetorically) the wrong question in your recent blog post. The question is NOT "what do the Detroit Lions know about college football/bowl games" but "What is the draw for B1G fans to want to travel to Detroit in the winter...or in any season for that matter?" Is this really a destination that B1G fan bases want to travel to to see two mediocre teams face off in the post season? If my Nittany Lions finish 6-6 and make a bowl game (not for the next couple of years), do you really think I want to see them face a 6-6 ACC team (alright maybe Pitt) in any place other than a warm, sunny distination with other attractions to see as well as a football game? Can anyone say Detroit is a "winter destination" unless it's the SuperBowl?
Brian Bennett: First off, Rob, let's get the joke right. I asked, what do the Lions know about postseason football, a little jab at that organization's utter lack of playoff success. As for Detroit, well, there are casinos right by Ford Field, some nice Greek restaurants and, um, yeah. Let's be honest, that city is no one's idea of a great winter holiday spot. But the bowl is also likely to take 6-6 type teams, and when you finish with that kind of record, deep in the Big Ten standings, you don't really get to be choosy. The best thing about Detroit is that it's very close for most Big Ten fan bases, and if the bowl replaces the MAC with the ACC as the other tie-in, that has the potential to create some interesting games. And as I wrote, Big Ten fans are often complaining about how they play virtual road games during bowl season. Here's your Midwest bowl. Embrace it.
Mochila from Grand Rapids, Mich., writes: A fellow reader indicated that MSU's secondary will not be very good this year due to their spring game performance and past dependence on Johnny Adams to operate on an island. I think the secondary has the potential to be improved considering MSU returns two All-Big Ten performers in Darqueze Dennard and Isaiah Lewis, Kurtis Drummond at the other safety position, who played very well last year, and a young Trae Waynes at the other CB position who started and performed very well in the bowl game. Do you think MSU's secondary will improve, regress, or stay roughly the same?
Brian Bennett: Adams was the Spartans' second-best corner last year, as Dennard outplayed him the entire season. Michigan State's secondary played well in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl without Adams, who was injured. I really like the potential of Waynes, and I think the Spartans will be just as good if not better in the defensive backfield.
Vince from Phoenix, writes: Which game on Michigan's 2013 schedule do they have to win to (finally) win the Legends Division?
Brian Bennett: Winning all of them would be nice. The one that obviously sticks out is the Nov. 9 game at home against Nebraska, but it's probably more the three-game stretch that includes a road game at Michigan State the previous weekend and a trip to Northwestern on Nov. 16 that will make or break the Wolverines in the Legends race. Remember that road losses to the eventual division champions (at Michigan State in 2011 and at Nebraska last year) were what doomed Michigan the past two seasons. Brady Hoke's teams have been really good at home but are going to have to win away from the Big House to bring home a division championship.
K. Norris from Detroit writes: Hello! Not that I disagree with the overall intent of Mr. Ted Miller's post earlier this week, but I will come rushing to the support of my 2 favorite Big Ten bloggers. Regarding the following quote: "Not to be outdone in prognosticative tomfoolery, the Big Ten blog picked Michigan State to win the conference. What were those guys thinking?" I would educate Mr. Miller that the 2012 Spartans did lose 4 games by a combined total of 10 points. It was the difference between 6-6 & 10-2 season. The team in the national championship game (Notre Dame) did only win by 17 against MSU. Yes, the Spartans were unable to find the extra gear when it was necessary to earn the 'W' at the end of games last year. That being said, it really was not a bad pick even from a national perspective. (Yes, green "Kool-Aid" tastes horrible.)
Brian Bennett: I'm pretty sure this is the first time in about eight months that anyone has told us our Michigan State title pick was not bad. In all seriousness, we clearly underestimated the inexperience of the Spartans passing game and gave too much credit to their offensive line. But 2012 was a weird year, considering that a team that finished 7-5 in the regular season (Wisconsin) went to the Rose Bowl -- and lost at home to Michigan State, I might add.
@sammyj108 from Twitter writes: Could the Hoosiers really play 3 quarterbacks? Or a two-quarterback system? Or just pick a starter based on matchups week to week?
Brian Bennett: Indiana coach Kevin Wilson wanted to see someone among Nate Sudfeld, Cameron Coffman and Tre Roberson really stand out this spring, but they all played pretty equally. Ideally, he'd like to redshirt either Sudfeld or Coffman this year and have one main quarterback play. The problem is that Roberson is clearly the best runner but needs to improve as a passer, while Sudfeld and Coffman are both good passers but not great runners. I asked Wilson this spring whether he'd be comfortable playing a two-quarterback system, as he did last year after Roberson got hurt. "I don't know if you want one in, one out," he said. "I'd love to see one guy totally separate ... but if not, we can play more than one. I want to keep them all happy, and I want to keep them all here. But more than anything, we've got to win."
Jay from Cincinnati writes: I am a little worried about Ohio State's recruiting class this year so far. I know it's early but seems like to would be better at this point.
Brian Bennett: Is Urban Meyer still the head coach? Then I'm not worried at all. He's one of the best closers in the game. If you're worried about the Buckeyes' recruiting in late May, take a deep breath.
Jay from Arlington writes: Title drought? Who cares. It is not like most of the SEC's titles during their so-called streak are legit anyway. And honestly, it is a lot easier to get to the BCS title game when you only have to beat one or two good teams a year, which is all that is required of SEC teams due, in no small part, to media bias. Don't sell the Big Ten short. Penn State has every right to claim a share of the 2005 title having lost one game directly due to officiating. While Penn State lost a game a lot closer than the score, the 2009 Rose Bowl between Penn State and USC matched the top two teams in the country while the Fiesta Bowl matched the third and fourth best team in Texas and Ohio State. Conversely the title game set up the sixth best team (Florida) versus the eighth in Oklahoma.
Brian Bennett: I enjoy your theories and would like to subscribe to your newsletter. Revisionist history aside, however, the records are what they are. Seven straight titles trumps every argument.
John from Iowa writes: In response you your Hope springs article: You have some misinformation posted when you talk about how many teams from each conference have made a BCS title game. The SEC has sent 4 teams not 5. They are: Tennessee, LSU, Florida, and Alabama. Also when you talk about the Big 12 sending 3 teams to the Big 10's only 1 team. One of those teams was Nebraska so you're essentially using the traditional power of one of our own teams to make your point about the Big Ten not being traditionally good.
Brian Bennett: Wow, Auburn fans must be steamed that John has already forgotten their 2011 national title. First Toomer's Oaks, and now this. I also find it funny that we get a lot of angry comments whenever we include Big-12 era Nebraska teams and coaches in our polls and lists, yet you want to include the Huskers when it might help out.
GOB Bluth from Gobias Industries, Calif., writes: Have you seen Franklin? I heard he's in Portugal. That's in South America, right?
Brian Bennett: Did you check the dryer? He has had some trouble down there. If you go looking south of the border, watch out for Hermanos. C'mon!
Big Ten homecoming kick times announced
May, 23, 2013
May 23
12:30
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
College football begins in fewer than 100 days, and now we have some more kickoff times announced for Big Ten games. The league has announced times for several 2013 homecoming contests around the league.
Here are the new announced homecoming kickoffs (all times ET):
Illinois: Oct. 26 vs. Michigan State, 3:30 p.m.
Indiana: Nov. 2 vs. Minnesota, 3:30 p.m.
Iowa: Oct. 5 vs. Michigan State, Noon
Michigan State: Oct. 12 vs. Indiana, Noon
Nebraska: Oct. 5 vs. Illinois, Noon
Purdue: Sept. 28 vs. Northern Illinois, Noon
Wisconsin: Oct. 12 vs. Northwestern, 3:30 p.m.
TV information for those games will be determined at a later date. Here are the two previously announced homecoming kickoffs:
Northwestern: Oct. 5 vs. Ohio State, 8 p.m. (ABC/ESPN2)
Penn State: Oct. 12 vs. Michigan, 5 p.m. (ESPN/ESPN 2)
That just leaves three schools, who are expected to announce their homecoming kickoff times tomorrow: Michigan (Oct. 5 vs Minnesota), Minnesota (Sept. 28 vs. Iowa) and Ohio State (Oct. 19 vs. Iowa).
Here are the new announced homecoming kickoffs (all times ET):
Illinois: Oct. 26 vs. Michigan State, 3:30 p.m.
Indiana: Nov. 2 vs. Minnesota, 3:30 p.m.
Iowa: Oct. 5 vs. Michigan State, Noon
Michigan State: Oct. 12 vs. Indiana, Noon
Nebraska: Oct. 5 vs. Illinois, Noon
Purdue: Sept. 28 vs. Northern Illinois, Noon
Wisconsin: Oct. 12 vs. Northwestern, 3:30 p.m.
TV information for those games will be determined at a later date. Here are the two previously announced homecoming kickoffs:
Northwestern: Oct. 5 vs. Ohio State, 8 p.m. (ABC/ESPN2)
Penn State: Oct. 12 vs. Michigan, 5 p.m. (ESPN/ESPN 2)
That just leaves three schools, who are expected to announce their homecoming kickoff times tomorrow: Michigan (Oct. 5 vs Minnesota), Minnesota (Sept. 28 vs. Iowa) and Ohio State (Oct. 19 vs. Iowa).
I love it here: manicured lawns, planned activities, early dinners. What more does a kid need?
- A must read: the second part of Mgoblog's look at a week in the life of Michigan offensive coordinator Al Borges. Here's Part I. It seems unlikely the Wolverines will add a QB transfer. Michigan coach Brady Hoke talks turnovers (limiting them, that is).
- Some interesting thoughts from Purdue AD Morgan Burke on the Big Ten vs. SEC, the College Football Playoff and other national issues. A Q&A with Boilers offensive coordinator John Shoop. Former Boilers star Kawann Short signs with the Carolina Panthers.
- Former Penn State QB Steven Bench will transfer to South Florida. LSU is making a strong push for Penn State LB commit Jared Wangler (Insider). The rest of Penn State's 2013 recruiting class soon will arrive on campus.
- Find out why Ohio State coach Urban Meyer calls LB recruit Raekwon McMillan "bubble." A look at the Mount Rushmore of Ohio State tight ends.
- Kirk Ferentz says Northwestern was Iowa's "most representative" loss in 2012.
- Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio talks soft drinks -- and possibly hints at a 2-quarterback system, Mike Griffith writes. Some Spartans recruiting notes.
- It's OK the Big Ten dumps the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl, unless it partners with the new Detroit Lions bowl, Graham Couch writes.
- Illinois is following a pay-to-win model with its non-league schedule. The Illini pick up a 2014 commitment from a juco tight end.
- Ranking the Big Ten's top five wide receivers.
- Former Nebraska coach and AD Tom Osborne will serve on the board for a national mentoring organization.
- The latest Wisconsin recruiting nuggets.
- Minnesota will induct two former football stars into its "M" Club Hall of Fame.
BuckeyeNation
Austin Ward writes: A handful of true freshmen could make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes.
Brad Bournival writes: 2015 DE Rashod Berry has a handful of MAC offers, but it’s OSU’s interest that has the Lorain, Ohio, prospect feeling “overwhelmed.”
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes: Everyone knows about the true freshman QB’s expectations, but there are a couple of other new kids on campus who could make an immediate impact.
WolverineNation
Chantel Jennings writes: At 6-foot-6 Ian Bunting figured his college future was in basketball, but he quickly emerged as one of the nation’s top tight end prospects.
Austin Ward writes
: A handful of true freshmen could make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes.
Brad Bournival writes
: 2015 DE Rashod Berry has a handful of MAC offers, but it’s OSU’s interest that has the Lorain, Ohio, prospect feeling “overwhelmed.”
NittanyNation
Josh Moyer writes
: Everyone knows about the true freshman QB’s expectations, but there are a couple of other new kids on campus who could make an immediate impact.
WolverineNation
Chantel Jennings writes
: At 6-foot-6 Ian Bunting figured his college future was in basketball, but he quickly emerged as one of the nation’s top tight end prospects.Green, Wilson make impact freshmen list
May, 22, 2013
May 22
5:00
PM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
Every Big Ten team will rely on a handful of freshmen (sometimes more than a handful) to fill key roles when the 2013 season rolls around. Which newcomers will make the biggest impact in the league?
Tom Luginbill, RecruitingNation's senior national recruiting analyst, has identified five names to remember among incoming freshmen
who will enroll this summer. Luginbill already singled out Ohio State cornerback Eli Apple as an early enrollee who could make a difference this fall.
Two Big Ten freshmen make Luginbill's new list. Neither needs much of an introduction.
Michigan running back Derrick Green is expected to compete right away for a starting job. Ranked by RecruitingNation as the No. 5 running back (No. 38 overall player) in the 2013 class, Green will be Michigan's best option in the backfield as the Wolverines go back to a more traditional pro-set scheme that will emphasize power running. No Michigan back distinguished himself this spring, and Green likely will face the most competition from Fitzgerald Toussaint, who comes off of leg surgery.
Luginbill also likes the impact potential of Ohio State incoming freshman Dontre Wilson, who could be fill the so-called "Percy position" in Urban Meyer's spread offense in Columbus. Wilson, a speedster from Texas who picked Ohio State ahead of Oregon and Texas, brings playmaking ability to an offense that needs more of it other than star quarterback Braxton Miller. Although Jordan Hall returns to the mix after battling injuries throughout 2012, Wilson could have a significant role in the offensive vision with a strong preseason showing.
What other incoming freshmen (non-early enrollees) could make an impact in the Big Ten this season?
Here are a few:
Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg: It'll be Hackenberg or junior-college transfer Tyler Ferguson starting for the Lions in their season opener against Syracuse. Unless Ferguson creates significant separation in camp, Hackenberg likely will be a factor this season.
Indiana DT Darius Latham: The Hoosiers need help along their defensive line, and could turn to Latham right away. A four-star prospect with good size and athleticism (played basketball in high school), Latham should be part of the mix up front at IU.
Michigan State RB Delton Williams: The Spartans need help in the backfield after no one really emerged this spring, and the coaches moved backup middle linebacker Riley Bullough to offense for help. There's a good chance Michigan State turns to an incoming freshman and Williams, the team's highest-rated recruit in the 2013 class according to RecruitingNation, will have a golden opportunity in camp.
Ohio State S Vonn Bell: Unlike the other freshmen listed here, Bell doesn't play a position where Ohio State has an overly pressing need. But he might be too talented to keep off of the field, especially when the Buckeyes go to their nickel and dime packages.
Tom Luginbill, RecruitingNation's senior national recruiting analyst, has identified five names to remember among incoming freshmen who will enroll this summer. Luginbill already singled out Ohio State cornerback Eli Apple as an early enrollee who could make a difference this fall.
Two Big Ten freshmen make Luginbill's new list. Neither needs much of an introduction.
Michigan running back Derrick Green is expected to compete right away for a starting job. Ranked by RecruitingNation as the No. 5 running back (No. 38 overall player) in the 2013 class, Green will be Michigan's best option in the backfield as the Wolverines go back to a more traditional pro-set scheme that will emphasize power running. No Michigan back distinguished himself this spring, and Green likely will face the most competition from Fitzgerald Toussaint, who comes off of leg surgery.
Luginbill also likes the impact potential of Ohio State incoming freshman Dontre Wilson, who could be fill the so-called "Percy position" in Urban Meyer's spread offense in Columbus. Wilson, a speedster from Texas who picked Ohio State ahead of Oregon and Texas, brings playmaking ability to an offense that needs more of it other than star quarterback Braxton Miller. Although Jordan Hall returns to the mix after battling injuries throughout 2012, Wilson could have a significant role in the offensive vision with a strong preseason showing.
What other incoming freshmen (non-early enrollees) could make an impact in the Big Ten this season?
Here are a few:
Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg: It'll be Hackenberg or junior-college transfer Tyler Ferguson starting for the Lions in their season opener against Syracuse. Unless Ferguson creates significant separation in camp, Hackenberg likely will be a factor this season.
Indiana DT Darius Latham: The Hoosiers need help along their defensive line, and could turn to Latham right away. A four-star prospect with good size and athleticism (played basketball in high school), Latham should be part of the mix up front at IU.
Michigan State RB Delton Williams: The Spartans need help in the backfield after no one really emerged this spring, and the coaches moved backup middle linebacker Riley Bullough to offense for help. There's a good chance Michigan State turns to an incoming freshman and Williams, the team's highest-rated recruit in the 2013 class according to RecruitingNation, will have a golden opportunity in camp.
Ohio State S Vonn Bell: Unlike the other freshmen listed here, Bell doesn't play a position where Ohio State has an overly pressing need. But he might be too talented to keep off of the field, especially when the Buckeyes go to their nickel and dime packages.
Four more days.
- Penn State's "JoeBots" could end up driving Bill O'Brien away, David Jones writes. O'Brien opened up for an HBO interview.
- Offensive lineman Kyle Kalis "took the next step" during spring practice for Michigan. At least one Michigan football makes it clear that it was not made in Ohio.
- Incoming freshman Gerald Holmes is an intriguing option at tailback for Michigan State. Damion Terry could help the Spartans' offense evolve.
- Kirk Ferentz remains committed to having a quarterback competition. Examining the Iowa linebacker position.
- Burning questions for Wisconsin this fall. Gary Andersen served up some burgers at Culver's and also some Badgers nuggets.
- Purdue is working on renovating the south end zone at Ross-Ade Stadium.
- Ex-Nebraska star David Humm is getting assistance from the new Huskers Greats Foundation. Tom Osborne will focus on charity work after his retirement.
- Should Northwestern freshman Godwin Igwebuike play running back or safety?
- Examining the cornerback position at Ohio State.
- Tim Beckman is excited to take the Illini back to Camp Rantoul this August.
- The Little Caesars Bowl could continue ... outdoors ... in Detroit ... in December.
- Five breakout candidates in the Big Ten.
CBSSports.com's Bruce Feldman has come out with his popular annual "Freaks" list, which examines the top workout warriors in college football.
Feldman lists 20 freakish athletes, and it includes three Big Ten players. Checking in at No. 2 in the rankings, behind only South Carolina superhuman Jadeveon Clowney, is Minnesota senior defensive tackle Ra'Shede Hageman.
We've written before about the otherworldly physical gifts of Hageman, who appears locked in for a big season this year. Here's what Feldman writes about the giant Gopher:
Hageman has a chance to be the top defensive tackle in the Big Ten this year if he can take another leap like he did last season.
Michigan left tackle Taylor Lewan ranks No. 4 among the freaks.
Rounding out the Big Ten contingent among the freaks is Wisconsin linebacker Chris Borland at No. 9.
Auburn fullback Jay Prosch, who played at Illinois from 2010-11, made the freaks list for a second straight year, checking in at No. 20.
Feldman lists 20 freakish athletes, and it includes three Big Ten players. Checking in at No. 2 in the rankings, behind only South Carolina superhuman Jadeveon Clowney, is Minnesota senior defensive tackle Ra'Shede Hageman.
We've written before about the otherworldly physical gifts of Hageman, who appears locked in for a big season this year. Here's what Feldman writes about the giant Gopher:
"The 6-6, 312-pound converted tight end vertical jumped 36 inches this offseason when the Gophers tested him. More impressively, the former basketball standout (he used to play AAU ball against first-rounder Royce White) says he can still do a 360 dunk even though he's well over three bills. "But," Hageman adds, "it doesn't look as pretty as when I was 250." ...
Not only does he have the 36-inch vert, but he also has bench-pressed 465 pounds and clocked an electronically timed 10-yard sprint in 1.57 seconds. For comparison sake, no DT at this year's NFL Combine jumped higher than 33 inches, and Terron Armstead, the offensive tackle who ran the blazing 4.71 40 at the combine, did a 1.64 in his 10."
Hageman has a chance to be the top defensive tackle in the Big Ten this year if he can take another leap like he did last season.
Michigan left tackle Taylor Lewan ranks No. 4 among the freaks.
"According to Wolverines strength coach Aaron Wellman, Lewan has clocked an electronically-timed 4.8 40-yard dash. The Arizona native has also, despite his long arms, bench pressed 275 pounds 21 times and also squats 550 pounds. In addition, this offseason Lewan improved his vertical jump to 29 inches, up from 26 last year."
Rounding out the Big Ten contingent among the freaks is Wisconsin linebacker Chris Borland at No. 9.
"Borland does a standstill box jump of 51 inches, said strength coach Evan Simon. "He can also do a standing back flip at will and one time landed one in the splits for fun. He is as solid as two rocks and one of the hardest workers you'll find."
"Not only that, Badger insiders say Borland has also been known to kick 40-yard field goals, practice catching balls either with one hand or behind his back out of the jugs gun and can throw the ball about 50 yards on a line."
Auburn fullback Jay Prosch, who played at Illinois from 2010-11, made the freaks list for a second straight year, checking in at No. 20.
We're less than 100 days away from the kickoff of the 2013 season. Hooray. Want another reason to celebrate? There's just one more season to go before the BCS officially dies and we get a new, four-team college football playoff.
As the BCS era -- which began with the 1998 regular season -- draws to a close, we're taking a look at the best achievements and worst failures of every league during that time. Here are five highs and lows from the Big Ten:
Low Five:
1. National title drought: There's no getting around this one. The Big Ten has just one crystal football in its trophy case, thanks to Ohio State's overtime victory over Miami in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl. Other than that, the league has been shut out, and the Buckeyes got blown out in both the 2007 and 2008 BCS title games despite entering those contests ranked No. 1. Worse, Ohio State is the only Big Ten team that has even played in a national championship game. Compare that to the SEC, which has had five teams play for it all, or the Big 12, which has had three.
2. Rose Bowl record: OK, you say, so the Big Ten hasn't won a lot of national titles, but the Rose Bowl is the league's true ultimate goal. Well, the news there hasn't been very good, either. Since the dawn of the BCS era, the Big Ten has gone just 3-9 in the Grandaddy, with just one win in Pasadena since the 1999 season: Ohio State's 2010 victory over Oregon. That was the Buckeyes' only Rose Bowl appearance in the BCS era, as their success resulted in them playing in other bowls and often led to the league's second-best team going to California.
3. Non-Ohio State signature brands: We mentioned the lack of national title-game appearances outside of Ohio State. That's where the league's other brand-name schools have to take some blame. Michigan and Penn State have combined for seven BCS bowl appearances, which is good, but neither has made it to the national-title game. The Wolverines lost three out of four Rose Bowls from 2004-2007 and took a major step backward with the Rich Rodriguez hire. The Nittany Lions weren't able to play for a third national title and were sidelined for the final two BCS years because of probation. Nebraska hasn't reached the big stage game since joining the league two years ago, which was the continuation of a BCS drought for the Huskers that has now reached 11 seasons.
4. Scandal makers: The Big Ten takes great pride in its image and integrity, but the league took a serious hit in those areas toward the end of the BCS era. Three major programs -- Ohio State, Penn State and Michigan -- all went on NCAA probation, and the conference's assistance in helping keep several Buckeyes eligible for the 2011 Sugar Bowl wound up blowing up in its face a few months later. It also was poor timing that the Big Ten named its divisions Legends and Leaders right around the same time its supposedly squeaky-clean marquee programs were dealing with NCAA problems.
5. Recent New Year's massacres: Those with short memories may forget that the Big Ten actually performed quite well in its non-BCS bowls against the SEC and other power leagues for much of the BCS era. But more recent results have obscured that fact. New Year's Day 2011 might have been the low-water mark, as the league went 0-5 and got outscored 138-45 in its three games against the SEC. The Big Ten went 1-4 on Jan. 2, 2012, with Michigan State's overtime victory over Georgia saving the day (though Michigan did win the Sugar Bowl the following night). The league was more competitive on New Year's Day 2013 but still needed Northwestern to come through to avoid going 0-5 again. The Big Ten is just 2-7 against the SEC in the last three years, and that has damaged the perception of the conference's overall strength.
High Five
1. Doubling up: The BCS, all in all, has been good to the Big Ten. The league has made 26 BCS bowl appearances, more than any other conference (and one more than the mighty SEC). Until last year, the Big Ten had a streak of seven consecutive years of earning a BCS at-large bid. The conference's large, eager and sun-starved fan bases helped, especially for some teams with less than stellar résumés (i.e., Illinois in 2007, Michigan in 2011). The extra exposure and millions of dollars from those appearances have benefited the Big Ten, even if the league's 12-14 BCS record is a little wanting.
2. Ohio State's BCS run: Let's try and forget the '07 and '08 title games. The Buckeyes still have made an impressive run through the BCS era, with more appearances (nine) than any other school in the country. That number would have reached 10 last year if not for probation. The Buckeyes are also tied with USC for the most wins in BCS games (six), although the 2011 Sugar Bowl victory over Arkansas was later vacated by the NCAA.
AP Photo/Morry GashThe Badgers have been to five Rose Bowls during the BCS era, winning two of them.3. Wisconsin's Rose parade: No Big Ten team has spent more time in Pasadena during the BCS era than Wisconsin, which has made five Rose Bowls, including the past three in a row. The Badgers own two of the conference's three Rose wins in that time with back-to-back victories in the 1999 and 2000 games. Their three consecutive losses there are disappointing, but it's better to have lost in the Grandaddy than to not have gone at all.
4. Money, money, money: Sure, the Big Ten lacks national championship rings or a glittering Rose Bowl record. But that hasn't stopped the conference from growing exponentially during the BCS era. Commissioner Jim Delany pioneered the idea of a league-only TV channel, and the Big Ten Network has been hugely profitable. The Big Ten is the richest conference in the land right now and is poised to rake in more dough with its next TV deal.
5. Rise of the middle class: If the Big Ten's signature brands outside of Ohio State failed to make a dent in the BCS title picture, at least some of the other league programs rose up and became contenders. Iowa went to two BCS games and won the 2010 Orange Bowl. Illinois sandwiched Sugar and Rose bowl bids around some otherwise disappointing seasons. Purdue got to the Rose Bowl in 2001. Michigan State is still looking for its first-ever BCS bowl but did win a share of the Big Ten title in 2010 and the inaugural Legends Division crown in 2011. Northwestern has been solid under Pat Fitzgerald and appears to be on an upward trajectory. Wisconsin has ascended into an annual conference power. While not every program has been able to maintain high levels of success, at least the Big Ten wasn't just the Big Two and Little Nine (or Ten, depending on the year) every season.
As the BCS era -- which began with the 1998 regular season -- draws to a close, we're taking a look at the best achievements and worst failures of every league during that time. Here are five highs and lows from the Big Ten:
Low Five:
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Charlie RiedelOhio State went into the 2007 and 2008 BCS title games ranked No. 1, but came out without the crystal trophy.
AP Photo/Charlie RiedelOhio State went into the 2007 and 2008 BCS title games ranked No. 1, but came out without the crystal trophy.2. Rose Bowl record: OK, you say, so the Big Ten hasn't won a lot of national titles, but the Rose Bowl is the league's true ultimate goal. Well, the news there hasn't been very good, either. Since the dawn of the BCS era, the Big Ten has gone just 3-9 in the Grandaddy, with just one win in Pasadena since the 1999 season: Ohio State's 2010 victory over Oregon. That was the Buckeyes' only Rose Bowl appearance in the BCS era, as their success resulted in them playing in other bowls and often led to the league's second-best team going to California.
3. Non-Ohio State signature brands: We mentioned the lack of national title-game appearances outside of Ohio State. That's where the league's other brand-name schools have to take some blame. Michigan and Penn State have combined for seven BCS bowl appearances, which is good, but neither has made it to the national-title game. The Wolverines lost three out of four Rose Bowls from 2004-2007 and took a major step backward with the Rich Rodriguez hire. The Nittany Lions weren't able to play for a third national title and were sidelined for the final two BCS years because of probation. Nebraska hasn't reached the big stage game since joining the league two years ago, which was the continuation of a BCS drought for the Huskers that has now reached 11 seasons.
4. Scandal makers: The Big Ten takes great pride in its image and integrity, but the league took a serious hit in those areas toward the end of the BCS era. Three major programs -- Ohio State, Penn State and Michigan -- all went on NCAA probation, and the conference's assistance in helping keep several Buckeyes eligible for the 2011 Sugar Bowl wound up blowing up in its face a few months later. It also was poor timing that the Big Ten named its divisions Legends and Leaders right around the same time its supposedly squeaky-clean marquee programs were dealing with NCAA problems.
5. Recent New Year's massacres: Those with short memories may forget that the Big Ten actually performed quite well in its non-BCS bowls against the SEC and other power leagues for much of the BCS era. But more recent results have obscured that fact. New Year's Day 2011 might have been the low-water mark, as the league went 0-5 and got outscored 138-45 in its three games against the SEC. The Big Ten went 1-4 on Jan. 2, 2012, with Michigan State's overtime victory over Georgia saving the day (though Michigan did win the Sugar Bowl the following night). The league was more competitive on New Year's Day 2013 but still needed Northwestern to come through to avoid going 0-5 again. The Big Ten is just 2-7 against the SEC in the last three years, and that has damaged the perception of the conference's overall strength.
High Five
1. Doubling up: The BCS, all in all, has been good to the Big Ten. The league has made 26 BCS bowl appearances, more than any other conference (and one more than the mighty SEC). Until last year, the Big Ten had a streak of seven consecutive years of earning a BCS at-large bid. The conference's large, eager and sun-starved fan bases helped, especially for some teams with less than stellar résumés (i.e., Illinois in 2007, Michigan in 2011). The extra exposure and millions of dollars from those appearances have benefited the Big Ten, even if the league's 12-14 BCS record is a little wanting.
2. Ohio State's BCS run: Let's try and forget the '07 and '08 title games. The Buckeyes still have made an impressive run through the BCS era, with more appearances (nine) than any other school in the country. That number would have reached 10 last year if not for probation. The Buckeyes are also tied with USC for the most wins in BCS games (six), although the 2011 Sugar Bowl victory over Arkansas was later vacated by the NCAA.
AP Photo/Morry GashThe Badgers have been to five Rose Bowls during the BCS era, winning two of them.4. Money, money, money: Sure, the Big Ten lacks national championship rings or a glittering Rose Bowl record. But that hasn't stopped the conference from growing exponentially during the BCS era. Commissioner Jim Delany pioneered the idea of a league-only TV channel, and the Big Ten Network has been hugely profitable. The Big Ten is the richest conference in the land right now and is poised to rake in more dough with its next TV deal.
5. Rise of the middle class: If the Big Ten's signature brands outside of Ohio State failed to make a dent in the BCS title picture, at least some of the other league programs rose up and became contenders. Iowa went to two BCS games and won the 2010 Orange Bowl. Illinois sandwiched Sugar and Rose bowl bids around some otherwise disappointing seasons. Purdue got to the Rose Bowl in 2001. Michigan State is still looking for its first-ever BCS bowl but did win a share of the Big Ten title in 2010 and the inaugural Legends Division crown in 2011. Northwestern has been solid under Pat Fitzgerald and appears to be on an upward trajectory. Wisconsin has ascended into an annual conference power. While not every program has been able to maintain high levels of success, at least the Big Ten wasn't just the Big Two and Little Nine (or Ten, depending on the year) every season.
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Jeremy from Columbus writes: With regards to the future Big Ten schedules (2016 and beyond), will we go to a system of staggered crossover games? Since we went to divisions, we've played two non-protected crossover teams one year, then the same teams at opposite sites the next, leading to the same opponents two years in a row. With the three crossover schedule coming with nine conference games, are all three crossovers going to swap simultaneously, or can they implement a staggered system? We would have to in order to play all seven teams in the other division every four years, which I believe was a major goal for the ADs to allow every player to play against every other Big Ten team once. Alternatively, any chance of not playing direct home-and-homes with the crossover teams? For example, hosting a team one year, skipping them the next, then visiting them the third year? I personally would prefer this system in order to play the widest variety of teams.
Adam Rittenberg: Jeremy, I reached out to Big Ten scheduling czar Mark Rudner to get some clarity on your question. The main thing to remember, as you point out, is the league-wide directive to have each Big Ten team play every other conference member at least once every four years. That will happen in the post-2016 scheduling model. To meet that goal, the crossovers after 2016 will be staggered, so you won't always see the same teams in consecutive seasons. You also won't always see direct home-and-homes with crossover opponents. Eventually every game will be, in a sense, returned, but it won't be as "clean" as the current setup. The goal remains to avoid these long breaks without certain matchups.
Ethan from Prague writes: Adam, I am a PSU fan living in Prague so thank you for your blog so i can keep track of my team. I know the quarterback race is down to two: Ferguson and Hackenberg. For me, I think even if Hackenberg edges Ferguson slightly in preseason camp, I would rather have him redshirt just to save his eligibility. For PSU right now I think the long-run is more important than this season and having Hackenberg learn O'Brien's offense while not wasting a year of eligiblity could get many offensive recruits excited to come to PSU because they can play with him while competing for two bowl games. I also think O'Brien will be there for as long as Hackenberg is playing, so 5 years minimum with O'Brien would be better than any alternative. Thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: Ethan, first off, thanks for reading us all the way from Prague. I've always wanted to visit. I understand your perspective here, and if Steven Bench had stuck around in Happy Valley, it might make sense for Penn State to consider redshirting Hackenberg if he and Ferguson are about even in preseason camp. But without Bench, Penn State doesn't have much else behind Ferguson if Hackenberg doesn't play. Penn State could start Ferguson with the hope he can last the entire season and perform at a relatively decent level, but if not, the team can't tank the season just to save a year of eligibility for Hackenberg. While it's never ideal for a quarterback to play as a true freshman, there could be tremendous value for Hackenberg, a mature kid with a high ceiling.
Keep in mind, too, that Penn State will surround its new quarterback with some good weapons. The offense has a chance to be good again and that, more than anything else, will help recruiting. I think you're overvaluing Hackenberg's effect on Penn State's recruiting and on O'Brien staying or leaving. Penn State still can recruit top offensive players even if Hackenberg doesn't play, and O'Brien likely will base his future on which NFL teams come calling and how comfortable he feels in State College.
Matt from Michigan writes: Hey Adam, there's been some confusion on whether or no Jake Ryan can medically redshirt this upcoming season. Some say that because he redshirted for non-medical reasons his freshman year that he could not redshirt again. Could you verify this? Thanks.
Adam Rittenberg: Matt, Ryan wouldn't get a second redshirt season but a sixth year of eligibility, which would come after he's exhausted the years given to each player coming into college. It would be similar to the Devin Gardner situation, except Gardner didn't redshirt as a freshman in 2010, but had his season limited by injury. If Ryan's injury is severe enough to cost him the entire 2013 season, he could return as a fifth-year senior in 2014 and then apply for a sixth year in 2015. He would need to show medical proof that he couldn't return for a good chunk of 2013. This all likely is moot as Michigan coach Brady Hoke has said repeatedly that Ryan will return this fall, but if he has a setback in his recovery, I could see him going the sixth-year route.
Michael from Los Feliz writes: Hey Adam, As a Gopher fan I am outraged over the twenty fourteen and fifteen schedules. Minnesota is finally building what looks like a solid program under new leadership at all the big positions: football coaching staff, University President, and AD. However, apparently Jim Delany wants to see the Gophers continue to struggle. It is totally unfair to saddle Minnesota with cross division games against Ohio State AND Michigan, the two best programs in the conference. You can force Minnesota to play one of those schools, but both is totally unfair. It's especially brutal because Wisconsin and Iowa look to be taking a step back on the field, yet Iowa gets Maryland/Indiana and Wisconsin gets Rutgers/Maryland. This is gerrymandering and I am livid. Don't you think the Gophers got screwed by JD?
Adam Rittenberg: No, I don't. This might absolutely shock the conspiracy-theorist contingent of Big Ten blog readers, but Jim Delany has almost nothing to do with league schedules. Mark Rudner and his staff handle the schedule, and, after the league-wide scheduling principles (i.e. no more than two straight road games) are met, a computer generates the schedule and then the ADs sign off on it. Minnesota AD Norwood Teague agreed to the schedule, just like his Big Ten colleagues did. Is it a tough crossover schedule for 2014 and 2015? Sure. But Minnesota still is in what most believe to be the more favorable division (West). The Gophers won't have to deal with Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Michigan State every year. Besides, aren't you happy that the Jug rivalry will continue in 2014? That has to be some sort of consolation.
Jon from Bangladesh writes: I've read a few articles that mope about the change of demographics and pool of talented players increasing in the South. No doubt as a Husker fan one has to accept that things aren't quite what they used to be. However I just had a thought today. What if the talent base in the South continued to increase? Assuming no new big Southern colleges are being founded, no move to Canadian style 13 players or more, and talented players not wanting to play third string, could a pattern like this actually begin to saturate the South, overflow a bit towards bigger colleges further North, and perhaps actually even the recruiting playing field a bit?
Adam Rittenberg: Jon, thanks for reading us from so far away. I've thought about the same thing: if demographic trends continue the way they are, more quality players should be looking for opportunities in far-flung leagues like the Big Ten. The counter argument is that SEC schools still will be getting the very top players from their surrounding areas and therefore will remain a cut above the Big Ten and the rest. If the SEC can pick and choose and not have to look far for national championship-type talent, it will continue to win those crystal footballs. That said, Big Ten schools must continue -- and, in some cases, ramp up -- their recruiting efforts in the South and Southeast. There's just too much talent in those regions to ignore and expect to compete at the highest level.
Stephen from Chicago writes: I am an Indiana Hoosier fan and was excited when Nebraska joined the Big Ten. I was looking forward to making the trek out to Lincoln and meet the supposed nicest fans in the country. As luck would have it, Nebraska ended up in the other division as Indiana and we were the one team that missed them the first four years in the conference. With Maryland and Rutgers joining the Big Ten, we were once again in the opposite division as Nebraska. Not only that, we were the only team with a protect cross over; meaning until the Big Ten goes to 9-game schedules, IU will only play one other team from the west each season. As I opened the 2014 schedule hoping for the 1 in 6 chance to find Nebraska, Nope we have Iowa. Am I ever going to see Nebraska play Indiana?
Adam Rittenberg: Stephen, this is a good point to raise, and it's obviously an unfortunate component of a scheduling model that keeps changing. Although having no Indiana-Nebraska game for Nebraska's first four seasons as a Big Ten member isn't ideal, it's not as bad as having a six-year break in the Illinois-Iowa series, which is currently going on and thankfully will end in 2014. The answer is yes, you'll see Nebraska soon enough, most likely in the 2016 schedule. After 2016, Indiana won't go four years without playing the Huskers. Things will begin to settle down from a scheduling standpoint. Look on the bright side: because of the quirky schedule, IU gets back-to-back home games against archrival Purdue this fall and next.
Kase from Dallas writes: Adam, as Nebraska alumni I'm a very disappointed in the 2014 (and 2015) schedule. No Penn State, No Ohio State, No Michigan. My biggest excitement about joining the B1G was getting to play these power programs. But it looks like this won't happen until at least 2016 when the B1G goes to a parity scheduling system. Home games against Illinois, Rutgers, Purdue & Minnesota are not exciting. Do you think the B1G is taking the Husker fans for granted? I doubt many other B1G programs would have sellout homes games with these opponents. Looking at 2015, I'm sure these schools will love the thousands of Nebraska fans that will likely travel to these away games. When making the schedule did the B1G take into account the "fans"?
Adam Rittenberg: I don't think the Big Ten bases its schedule on whether Nebraska can continue its sellout streak, if that's what you're asking. Certain home schedules will be more appealing than others, but until parity-based scheduling kicks in, Big Ten schedules aren't designed with the quality of opponent in mind. It's fairly random after the core principles agreed upon by all the ADs are met. The good news for Nebraska fans is after 2016, you'll see Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State in Lincoln more often than other East division teams. Although Nebraska fans aren't pleased with the 2014 home schedule, I'd be stunned if many stayed away. This is the same program that drew more than 60,000 for the spring game in April.
Jeremy from Columbus writes: With regards to the future Big Ten schedules (2016 and beyond), will we go to a system of staggered crossover games? Since we went to divisions, we've played two non-protected crossover teams one year, then the same teams at opposite sites the next, leading to the same opponents two years in a row. With the three crossover schedule coming with nine conference games, are all three crossovers going to swap simultaneously, or can they implement a staggered system? We would have to in order to play all seven teams in the other division every four years, which I believe was a major goal for the ADs to allow every player to play against every other Big Ten team once. Alternatively, any chance of not playing direct home-and-homes with the crossover teams? For example, hosting a team one year, skipping them the next, then visiting them the third year? I personally would prefer this system in order to play the widest variety of teams.
Adam Rittenberg: Jeremy, I reached out to Big Ten scheduling czar Mark Rudner to get some clarity on your question. The main thing to remember, as you point out, is the league-wide directive to have each Big Ten team play every other conference member at least once every four years. That will happen in the post-2016 scheduling model. To meet that goal, the crossovers after 2016 will be staggered, so you won't always see the same teams in consecutive seasons. You also won't always see direct home-and-homes with crossover opponents. Eventually every game will be, in a sense, returned, but it won't be as "clean" as the current setup. The goal remains to avoid these long breaks without certain matchups.
Ethan from Prague writes: Adam, I am a PSU fan living in Prague so thank you for your blog so i can keep track of my team. I know the quarterback race is down to two: Ferguson and Hackenberg. For me, I think even if Hackenberg edges Ferguson slightly in preseason camp, I would rather have him redshirt just to save his eligibility. For PSU right now I think the long-run is more important than this season and having Hackenberg learn O'Brien's offense while not wasting a year of eligiblity could get many offensive recruits excited to come to PSU because they can play with him while competing for two bowl games. I also think O'Brien will be there for as long as Hackenberg is playing, so 5 years minimum with O'Brien would be better than any alternative. Thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: Ethan, first off, thanks for reading us all the way from Prague. I've always wanted to visit. I understand your perspective here, and if Steven Bench had stuck around in Happy Valley, it might make sense for Penn State to consider redshirting Hackenberg if he and Ferguson are about even in preseason camp. But without Bench, Penn State doesn't have much else behind Ferguson if Hackenberg doesn't play. Penn State could start Ferguson with the hope he can last the entire season and perform at a relatively decent level, but if not, the team can't tank the season just to save a year of eligibility for Hackenberg. While it's never ideal for a quarterback to play as a true freshman, there could be tremendous value for Hackenberg, a mature kid with a high ceiling.
Keep in mind, too, that Penn State will surround its new quarterback with some good weapons. The offense has a chance to be good again and that, more than anything else, will help recruiting. I think you're overvaluing Hackenberg's effect on Penn State's recruiting and on O'Brien staying or leaving. Penn State still can recruit top offensive players even if Hackenberg doesn't play, and O'Brien likely will base his future on which NFL teams come calling and how comfortable he feels in State College.
Matt from Michigan writes: Hey Adam, there's been some confusion on whether or no Jake Ryan can medically redshirt this upcoming season. Some say that because he redshirted for non-medical reasons his freshman year that he could not redshirt again. Could you verify this? Thanks.
Adam Rittenberg: Matt, Ryan wouldn't get a second redshirt season but a sixth year of eligibility, which would come after he's exhausted the years given to each player coming into college. It would be similar to the Devin Gardner situation, except Gardner didn't redshirt as a freshman in 2010, but had his season limited by injury. If Ryan's injury is severe enough to cost him the entire 2013 season, he could return as a fifth-year senior in 2014 and then apply for a sixth year in 2015. He would need to show medical proof that he couldn't return for a good chunk of 2013. This all likely is moot as Michigan coach Brady Hoke has said repeatedly that Ryan will return this fall, but if he has a setback in his recovery, I could see him going the sixth-year route.
Michael from Los Feliz writes: Hey Adam, As a Gopher fan I am outraged over the twenty fourteen and fifteen schedules. Minnesota is finally building what looks like a solid program under new leadership at all the big positions: football coaching staff, University President, and AD. However, apparently Jim Delany wants to see the Gophers continue to struggle. It is totally unfair to saddle Minnesota with cross division games against Ohio State AND Michigan, the two best programs in the conference. You can force Minnesota to play one of those schools, but both is totally unfair. It's especially brutal because Wisconsin and Iowa look to be taking a step back on the field, yet Iowa gets Maryland/Indiana and Wisconsin gets Rutgers/Maryland. This is gerrymandering and I am livid. Don't you think the Gophers got screwed by JD?
Adam Rittenberg: No, I don't. This might absolutely shock the conspiracy-theorist contingent of Big Ten blog readers, but Jim Delany has almost nothing to do with league schedules. Mark Rudner and his staff handle the schedule, and, after the league-wide scheduling principles (i.e. no more than two straight road games) are met, a computer generates the schedule and then the ADs sign off on it. Minnesota AD Norwood Teague agreed to the schedule, just like his Big Ten colleagues did. Is it a tough crossover schedule for 2014 and 2015? Sure. But Minnesota still is in what most believe to be the more favorable division (West). The Gophers won't have to deal with Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Michigan State every year. Besides, aren't you happy that the Jug rivalry will continue in 2014? That has to be some sort of consolation.
Jon from Bangladesh writes: I've read a few articles that mope about the change of demographics and pool of talented players increasing in the South. No doubt as a Husker fan one has to accept that things aren't quite what they used to be. However I just had a thought today. What if the talent base in the South continued to increase? Assuming no new big Southern colleges are being founded, no move to Canadian style 13 players or more, and talented players not wanting to play third string, could a pattern like this actually begin to saturate the South, overflow a bit towards bigger colleges further North, and perhaps actually even the recruiting playing field a bit?
Adam Rittenberg: Jon, thanks for reading us from so far away. I've thought about the same thing: if demographic trends continue the way they are, more quality players should be looking for opportunities in far-flung leagues like the Big Ten. The counter argument is that SEC schools still will be getting the very top players from their surrounding areas and therefore will remain a cut above the Big Ten and the rest. If the SEC can pick and choose and not have to look far for national championship-type talent, it will continue to win those crystal footballs. That said, Big Ten schools must continue -- and, in some cases, ramp up -- their recruiting efforts in the South and Southeast. There's just too much talent in those regions to ignore and expect to compete at the highest level.
Stephen from Chicago writes: I am an Indiana Hoosier fan and was excited when Nebraska joined the Big Ten. I was looking forward to making the trek out to Lincoln and meet the supposed nicest fans in the country. As luck would have it, Nebraska ended up in the other division as Indiana and we were the one team that missed them the first four years in the conference. With Maryland and Rutgers joining the Big Ten, we were once again in the opposite division as Nebraska. Not only that, we were the only team with a protect cross over; meaning until the Big Ten goes to 9-game schedules, IU will only play one other team from the west each season. As I opened the 2014 schedule hoping for the 1 in 6 chance to find Nebraska, Nope we have Iowa. Am I ever going to see Nebraska play Indiana?
Adam Rittenberg: Stephen, this is a good point to raise, and it's obviously an unfortunate component of a scheduling model that keeps changing. Although having no Indiana-Nebraska game for Nebraska's first four seasons as a Big Ten member isn't ideal, it's not as bad as having a six-year break in the Illinois-Iowa series, which is currently going on and thankfully will end in 2014. The answer is yes, you'll see Nebraska soon enough, most likely in the 2016 schedule. After 2016, Indiana won't go four years without playing the Huskers. Things will begin to settle down from a scheduling standpoint. Look on the bright side: because of the quirky schedule, IU gets back-to-back home games against archrival Purdue this fall and next.
Kase from Dallas writes: Adam, as Nebraska alumni I'm a very disappointed in the 2014 (and 2015) schedule. No Penn State, No Ohio State, No Michigan. My biggest excitement about joining the B1G was getting to play these power programs. But it looks like this won't happen until at least 2016 when the B1G goes to a parity scheduling system. Home games against Illinois, Rutgers, Purdue & Minnesota are not exciting. Do you think the B1G is taking the Husker fans for granted? I doubt many other B1G programs would have sellout homes games with these opponents. Looking at 2015, I'm sure these schools will love the thousands of Nebraska fans that will likely travel to these away games. When making the schedule did the B1G take into account the "fans"?
Adam Rittenberg: I don't think the Big Ten bases its schedule on whether Nebraska can continue its sellout streak, if that's what you're asking. Certain home schedules will be more appealing than others, but until parity-based scheduling kicks in, Big Ten schedules aren't designed with the quality of opponent in mind. It's fairly random after the core principles agreed upon by all the ADs are met. The good news for Nebraska fans is after 2016, you'll see Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State in Lincoln more often than other East division teams. Although Nebraska fans aren't pleased with the 2014 home schedule, I'd be stunned if many stayed away. This is the same program that drew more than 60,000 for the spring game in April.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Adam Rittenberg
Rittenberg joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four years at the Arlington Heights (Ill.) Daily Herald, where he covered sports at Notre Dame, Northwestern, DePaul and several other colleges. He lives in Chicago.
Brian Bennett
Bennett joined ESPN.com in August 2008 after nine years at The Courier-Journal in Louisville, Ky., where he covered college sports and the University of Louisville beat. He lives in Louisville.
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