Big Ten: Purdue Boilermakers
Wishing you a happy and safe holiday weekend. Barring breaking news, we'll be back with you bright and early Tuesday.
Mike from Chicago writes: I can't begin to explain how utterly confused I am as to your and Brian's stance on BIG 10 expansion. My question is why can't the BIG 10 just sit on their hands while every other conference expands to 16 teams. According to you, "Leagues would completely lack intimacy and commonality, teams would play even less often and there would be filler teams everywhere." As a fan of the BIG10 and Wisky, I would be livid if going to 16 teams meant Wisconsin would play Iowa even less than we do now and instead we had to play a Maryland team. Even if the BIG10 did get a bigger TV contract, it would still have to split the money evenly with an additional 4 members. And how in the world would the national image of your conference improve if you added teams like Rutgers or Maryland? And Notre Dame? Seriously?!?! The only thing Notre Dame is the Holy Grail of is being consistently nationally irrelevant for as long as I can remember. So your statement of the BIG 10 should/will do it cause everyone else is doing is laughable. The BIG 10 coaches, ADs, and presidents definitely have the right outlook of wanting to stay put.
Adam Rittenberg: Mike, while the Big Ten is taking a cautious approach toward any future expansion, and the league's presidents don't seem interested in eclipsing 12 members any time soon, it's fair to ask whether the Big Ten can compete at 12 with 16-team superconferences. TV deals are absolutely critical in today's environment, more critical than most fans will acknowledge. The Big Ten has to weigh what type of deal it can get with 12 members vs. what it could with 14 or 16 and a larger footprint. If the Big 12 and SEC can sell their product in more regions and make substantially more money, the Big Ten's position could be significantly weakened over time. Yes, a league needs to worry about itself and its interests, but it can't be blind to what other leagues are doing in a competitive environment.
Your comment about Notre Dame comes from a place of being annoyed with Notre Dame. A lot of fans feel this way. But from a business perspective, you'd be absolutely insane not to want to add Notre Dame. It'd be a huge business boon for the Big Ten. And while there's a chance programs like Maryland and Rutgers simply could be more mouths to feed, those programs also could extend the Big Ten's reach into new markets. This is something the Big Ten must weigh in the coming months.
Nick from Omaha writes: Adam, with all this talk of super conferences and the speculation of conferences like the ACC and Big East being raided why doesn't the Big Ten try to move more into the southern footprint? Assuming Notre Dame chooses to join the Big 12, I feel like teams like Georgia Tech, North Carolina and Duke should all be considered as well as maybe Syracuse so the conference can move into the New York market. The ACC schools would all be home runs in athletics as well as academics, and although Syracuse is no longer an AAU member, they are still highly regarded in academics. I see no real pluses for the Big Ten bringing in teams like Virginia, Maryland, and Rutgers. Rutgers would hardly get us into the NYC market - Syracuse is the big school there and way better in athletics anyways. And besides academics, none of those three really bring anything to the table. Your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: The only home-run addition for the Big Ten would be Notre Dame, plain and simple. North Carolina would be a very nice addition, but UNC doesn't move the needle in football nationally much at all. Notre Dame would be a big splash, and if Texas were available, UT would be a home run as well. The rest are filler schools in my view, although some are better than others (Syracuse > Rutgers, as you say). Duke brings you NOTHING in football, and while Duke basketball is a wonderful national brand, these expansions are all about football. I like Georgia Tech because it's a strong academic school (AAU member) located in a major southern city (Atlanta). Georgia Tech has good tradition in football, and would give the Big Ten a greater presence in a key part of the country. Honestly, I don't know if the Big Ten can penetrate the New York market, even with a team like Syracuse. That part of the country seems so pro sports-focused, aside from Big East basketball championship week. I think Georgia Tech and Maryland would be more strategic additions.
Ben from Chicago writes: I know this is completely unrealistic, but how awesome would it be if the Big Ten played an 11-game conference schedule, so they could play everybody once. The 12th game could be reserved for traditional nonconference matchups, and that week could be rotated throughout the teams so Michigan, MSU, and Purdue could all play Notre Dame as their one nonconference game. Again, it's not going to happen, but one can fantasize, right?
Adam Rittenberg: You certainly can, Ben, but this will never happen. It also would remove the Big Ten/Pac-12 scheduling partnership, unless the Pac-12 game could replace Notre Dame or Iowa State on the schedules of Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue and Iowa. Also, it's hard to see a Big Ten team winning the national title with this type of schedule, unless schedule strength was the biggest factor in determining which teams make a playoff.
Daniel from Stamford, Conn., writes: Adam, I have seen a lot of talk lately about how the big ten division setup removes the Iowa-Wisconsin rivalry. I started looking at the current setup and the rivalries that existed prior to the divisions and an idea occurred to me, switch Nebraska and Wisconsin. This brings back the Iowa-Wisconsin game and allows you to rename the divisions Big Ten North and Big Ten South. The obvious question becomes "what would guaranteed cross-division matchups be?" Here's my thought: Michigan-Ohio State, Illinois-Northwestern, Penn State-Michigan State, Indiana-Minnesota, Wisconsin-Purdue. This setup seems to maintain the most rivalries while also creating the most competitive environment. Note the only rivalries lost in this setup are Indiana-Michigan State (very one sided, Michigan State 41-15-2) and Minnesota-Penn State (only played 12 times). What are your thoughts on this setup? Do you think the Big Ten would ever consider it?
Adam Rittenberg: Daniel, it's important to point out that the other guaranteed cross-division matchup would be Nebraska-Iowa, which is and end-of-season game that has terrific rivalry potential. Your plan certainly helps from a rivalry perspective. The downsides for Nebraska is that it wouldn't play Michigan and Michigan State every year, but it would keep playing Iowa and have both Ohio State and Penn State on the schedule each season. Wisconsin would lose the annual Ohio State series, but it would keep both Iowa and Minnesota on the schedule every year. The big downside, and I know fans don't like to hear this, is that your plan puts three of the Big Ten's four major brands -- Ohio State, Penn State and Nebraska -- in the same division. Should all three teams be really good in a given year, I'm not sure how much attention would be paid to the other division. The counter argument is that Wisconsin has won the past two Big Ten titles and Michigan State also is a program on the rise. The combination of Wisconsin, Michigan State, Michigan and Iowa should offset the strength in the other division. I like your plan. Good call.
Nicholas from Phoenix writes: Your article on Ohio State is a bit misleading and vague. You say that Ohio State admitted to secondary violations for recruiting but you never mention the absurdity of the violations. Like Urban Meyer saying "Good Luck" to Noah Spence before a game. Or Everett Withers inadvertently texting a recruit rather than emailing (happened once so clearly an accident). You also make it seem like this is an Ohio State issue. Every school in the country commits secondary violations all the time... most never report them and sweep them under the rug... Ohio State was being proactive and honest.
Adam Rittenberg: Nicholas, the specifics of the secondary violations are detailed here and here, and I did comment on the silliness of many of them. These type of issues aren't confined to Ohio State, and most football programs have multiple self-reported secondary violations per year. The reason this story was reported -- first by The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer -- is because it's newsworthy to see how Ohio State's compliance department has functioned after some obvious missteps in 2010/2011. It's not some vast media conspiracy against Ohio State, but when a school has major problems with the NCAA, it's our job to look back and see how the department is dealing with compliance issues. And the results of these reports is that Ohio State is doing its job in self-reporting violations and keeping track of them. There aren't any major issues here. So in that way, the news is positive.
Rich from Denver writes: Adam, after reading your argument that because Purdue basketball fans don't object to driving home at night the football fans probably won't either, I want to make a point with you. The fan bases are not exactly the same. I would guess that 99% of Purdue's basketball ticket holders come from within a 20-30 minute drive. I would guess a significant number of Purdue football ticket holders drive an hour or more for home games; maybe up to 20 percent. Speaking as one who used to drive to East Lansing from Chicago, night games are a huge burden for many. A noon or 1 p.m. kickoff allowed me to drive in for the game and still get back to Chicago at a reasonable time. Later kickoffs don't allow this -- especially in bad weather -- and often kept me from utilizing my season tickets. Just something to keep in mind when you advocate for more night games. Yes, I realize that one night game a year is reasonable as you argue. However, it might not seem reasonable to a long-time season ticket holder who lives far away to have to take on that burden for the most desirable game of the year (outside of the IU game, I suppose).
Adam Rittenberg: Rich, you make some good points about the differences in the fan bases. That said, I don't see how a Big Ten football fan base is vastly different from those in other parts of the country, where they regularly play night games. Do all LSU fans live 20 minutes away from Tiger Stadium? They don't seem to mind making the trips almost every week for night games. Do all Oklahoma State fans live right next to Boone Pickens Stadium? Penn State has the least convenient stadium location of any team in the Big Ten, and most Penn State football fans love night games and want more and more of them. I guess each fan base is different. My point is that Purdue is desperately trying to boost attendance and increase its profile both regionally and nationally. Having a better team will help this, but having more night games also can be very beneficial. And as I stated, night games can bring in fans who otherwise wouldn't attend a noon game (i.e. more students). I'm not saying Purdue should play five or six night games a year. But at least one -- and ideally two or even three -- would be beneficial.
Mike from Chicago writes: I can't begin to explain how utterly confused I am as to your and Brian's stance on BIG 10 expansion. My question is why can't the BIG 10 just sit on their hands while every other conference expands to 16 teams. According to you, "Leagues would completely lack intimacy and commonality, teams would play even less often and there would be filler teams everywhere." As a fan of the BIG10 and Wisky, I would be livid if going to 16 teams meant Wisconsin would play Iowa even less than we do now and instead we had to play a Maryland team. Even if the BIG10 did get a bigger TV contract, it would still have to split the money evenly with an additional 4 members. And how in the world would the national image of your conference improve if you added teams like Rutgers or Maryland? And Notre Dame? Seriously?!?! The only thing Notre Dame is the Holy Grail of is being consistently nationally irrelevant for as long as I can remember. So your statement of the BIG 10 should/will do it cause everyone else is doing is laughable. The BIG 10 coaches, ADs, and presidents definitely have the right outlook of wanting to stay put.
Adam Rittenberg: Mike, while the Big Ten is taking a cautious approach toward any future expansion, and the league's presidents don't seem interested in eclipsing 12 members any time soon, it's fair to ask whether the Big Ten can compete at 12 with 16-team superconferences. TV deals are absolutely critical in today's environment, more critical than most fans will acknowledge. The Big Ten has to weigh what type of deal it can get with 12 members vs. what it could with 14 or 16 and a larger footprint. If the Big 12 and SEC can sell their product in more regions and make substantially more money, the Big Ten's position could be significantly weakened over time. Yes, a league needs to worry about itself and its interests, but it can't be blind to what other leagues are doing in a competitive environment.
Your comment about Notre Dame comes from a place of being annoyed with Notre Dame. A lot of fans feel this way. But from a business perspective, you'd be absolutely insane not to want to add Notre Dame. It'd be a huge business boon for the Big Ten. And while there's a chance programs like Maryland and Rutgers simply could be more mouths to feed, those programs also could extend the Big Ten's reach into new markets. This is something the Big Ten must weigh in the coming months.
Nick from Omaha writes: Adam, with all this talk of super conferences and the speculation of conferences like the ACC and Big East being raided why doesn't the Big Ten try to move more into the southern footprint? Assuming Notre Dame chooses to join the Big 12, I feel like teams like Georgia Tech, North Carolina and Duke should all be considered as well as maybe Syracuse so the conference can move into the New York market. The ACC schools would all be home runs in athletics as well as academics, and although Syracuse is no longer an AAU member, they are still highly regarded in academics. I see no real pluses for the Big Ten bringing in teams like Virginia, Maryland, and Rutgers. Rutgers would hardly get us into the NYC market - Syracuse is the big school there and way better in athletics anyways. And besides academics, none of those three really bring anything to the table. Your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: The only home-run addition for the Big Ten would be Notre Dame, plain and simple. North Carolina would be a very nice addition, but UNC doesn't move the needle in football nationally much at all. Notre Dame would be a big splash, and if Texas were available, UT would be a home run as well. The rest are filler schools in my view, although some are better than others (Syracuse > Rutgers, as you say). Duke brings you NOTHING in football, and while Duke basketball is a wonderful national brand, these expansions are all about football. I like Georgia Tech because it's a strong academic school (AAU member) located in a major southern city (Atlanta). Georgia Tech has good tradition in football, and would give the Big Ten a greater presence in a key part of the country. Honestly, I don't know if the Big Ten can penetrate the New York market, even with a team like Syracuse. That part of the country seems so pro sports-focused, aside from Big East basketball championship week. I think Georgia Tech and Maryland would be more strategic additions.
Ben from Chicago writes: I know this is completely unrealistic, but how awesome would it be if the Big Ten played an 11-game conference schedule, so they could play everybody once. The 12th game could be reserved for traditional nonconference matchups, and that week could be rotated throughout the teams so Michigan, MSU, and Purdue could all play Notre Dame as their one nonconference game. Again, it's not going to happen, but one can fantasize, right?
Adam Rittenberg: You certainly can, Ben, but this will never happen. It also would remove the Big Ten/Pac-12 scheduling partnership, unless the Pac-12 game could replace Notre Dame or Iowa State on the schedules of Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue and Iowa. Also, it's hard to see a Big Ten team winning the national title with this type of schedule, unless schedule strength was the biggest factor in determining which teams make a playoff.
Daniel from Stamford, Conn., writes: Adam, I have seen a lot of talk lately about how the big ten division setup removes the Iowa-Wisconsin rivalry. I started looking at the current setup and the rivalries that existed prior to the divisions and an idea occurred to me, switch Nebraska and Wisconsin. This brings back the Iowa-Wisconsin game and allows you to rename the divisions Big Ten North and Big Ten South. The obvious question becomes "what would guaranteed cross-division matchups be?" Here's my thought: Michigan-Ohio State, Illinois-Northwestern, Penn State-Michigan State, Indiana-Minnesota, Wisconsin-Purdue. This setup seems to maintain the most rivalries while also creating the most competitive environment. Note the only rivalries lost in this setup are Indiana-Michigan State (very one sided, Michigan State 41-15-2) and Minnesota-Penn State (only played 12 times). What are your thoughts on this setup? Do you think the Big Ten would ever consider it?
Adam Rittenberg: Daniel, it's important to point out that the other guaranteed cross-division matchup would be Nebraska-Iowa, which is and end-of-season game that has terrific rivalry potential. Your plan certainly helps from a rivalry perspective. The downsides for Nebraska is that it wouldn't play Michigan and Michigan State every year, but it would keep playing Iowa and have both Ohio State and Penn State on the schedule each season. Wisconsin would lose the annual Ohio State series, but it would keep both Iowa and Minnesota on the schedule every year. The big downside, and I know fans don't like to hear this, is that your plan puts three of the Big Ten's four major brands -- Ohio State, Penn State and Nebraska -- in the same division. Should all three teams be really good in a given year, I'm not sure how much attention would be paid to the other division. The counter argument is that Wisconsin has won the past two Big Ten titles and Michigan State also is a program on the rise. The combination of Wisconsin, Michigan State, Michigan and Iowa should offset the strength in the other division. I like your plan. Good call.
Nicholas from Phoenix writes: Your article on Ohio State is a bit misleading and vague. You say that Ohio State admitted to secondary violations for recruiting but you never mention the absurdity of the violations. Like Urban Meyer saying "Good Luck" to Noah Spence before a game. Or Everett Withers inadvertently texting a recruit rather than emailing (happened once so clearly an accident). You also make it seem like this is an Ohio State issue. Every school in the country commits secondary violations all the time... most never report them and sweep them under the rug... Ohio State was being proactive and honest.
Adam Rittenberg: Nicholas, the specifics of the secondary violations are detailed here and here, and I did comment on the silliness of many of them. These type of issues aren't confined to Ohio State, and most football programs have multiple self-reported secondary violations per year. The reason this story was reported -- first by The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer -- is because it's newsworthy to see how Ohio State's compliance department has functioned after some obvious missteps in 2010/2011. It's not some vast media conspiracy against Ohio State, but when a school has major problems with the NCAA, it's our job to look back and see how the department is dealing with compliance issues. And the results of these reports is that Ohio State is doing its job in self-reporting violations and keeping track of them. There aren't any major issues here. So in that way, the news is positive.
Rich from Denver writes: Adam, after reading your argument that because Purdue basketball fans don't object to driving home at night the football fans probably won't either, I want to make a point with you. The fan bases are not exactly the same. I would guess that 99% of Purdue's basketball ticket holders come from within a 20-30 minute drive. I would guess a significant number of Purdue football ticket holders drive an hour or more for home games; maybe up to 20 percent. Speaking as one who used to drive to East Lansing from Chicago, night games are a huge burden for many. A noon or 1 p.m. kickoff allowed me to drive in for the game and still get back to Chicago at a reasonable time. Later kickoffs don't allow this -- especially in bad weather -- and often kept me from utilizing my season tickets. Just something to keep in mind when you advocate for more night games. Yes, I realize that one night game a year is reasonable as you argue. However, it might not seem reasonable to a long-time season ticket holder who lives far away to have to take on that burden for the most desirable game of the year (outside of the IU game, I suppose).
Adam Rittenberg: Rich, you make some good points about the differences in the fan bases. That said, I don't see how a Big Ten football fan base is vastly different from those in other parts of the country, where they regularly play night games. Do all LSU fans live 20 minutes away from Tiger Stadium? They don't seem to mind making the trips almost every week for night games. Do all Oklahoma State fans live right next to Boone Pickens Stadium? Penn State has the least convenient stadium location of any team in the Big Ten, and most Penn State football fans love night games and want more and more of them. I guess each fan base is different. My point is that Purdue is desperately trying to boost attendance and increase its profile both regionally and nationally. Having a better team will help this, but having more night games also can be very beneficial. And as I stated, night games can bring in fans who otherwise wouldn't attend a noon game (i.e. more students). I'm not saying Purdue should play five or six night games a year. But at least one -- and ideally two or even three -- would be beneficial.
The Big Ten's 3,000-yard passers in 2012
May, 25, 2012
May 25
3:00
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
When it comes to passing statistics in college football, 3,000 yards is a pretty good benchmark.
If you've reached that milestone as a quarterback, you're in pretty elite company. There were only 39 quarterbacks to do so in the FBS last season, and just three in the Big Ten: Michigan State's Kirk Cousins (3,316), Wisconsin's Russell Wilson (3,175) and Iowa's James Vandenberg (3,022). Northwestern's Dan Persa (2,376) missed three games and was limited in others, or else he might have made a run at it, too. No one else from the league surpassed 2,200 yards passing.
Of that group, only Vandenberg returns. The Big Ten isn't known as a huge passing league, so how many quarterbacks can reach 3,000 in 2012? Here's a breakdown of the top contenders in order of their chances of making it to 3K:
Vandenberg: On the plus side, Iowa will likely look to pass a lot this season without a proven running back, and new coordinator Greg Davis is a quarterback guru. On the downside, Vandenberg won't have favorite target Marvin McNutt, and he struggled on the road last season. Still, I think he'll get there and be better as a second-year full-time starter and senior.
Nathan Scheelhaase, Illinois: Taking a flyer here. Scheelhaase threw for 2,110 in an offense that ran into the ground for the final six games. He won't have A.J. Jenkins around, and he'll have to learn an entirely new offense. But new coach Tim Beckman's spread attack could allow Scheelhaase to put up big numbers if the Illini can find enough weapons.
Danny O'Brien, Wisconsin: Assuming, as most do, that Maryland transfer O'Brien will beat out Joel Stave for the starting job, he has a chance to follow in Russell Wilson's footsteps. A tremendous running game means receivers often will be open. O'Brien threw for more than 2,400 yards as a freshman at Maryland. Then again, Wilson was the first quarterback in Wisconsin history to amass 3,000 passing yards, and he played about as flawlessly as you can play.
Braxton Miller, Ohio State: Miller threw for only 1,159 yards last season, but it took several games for him to become the starter, and the Buckeyes often decided not to pass much. He showed his potential by throwing for 235 yards against Michigan, and the Buckeyes were slinging it all over the place in the spring game. Miller's passing numbers should go way up under Urban Meyer, but 3,000 still seems like quite a reach.
Andrew Maxwell, Michigan State: Maxwell is stepping into the same offense that produced the passing yards leader last season in the Big Ten. But B.J. Cunningham and Keshawn Martin are gone, and Maxwell has never started a game. I think he'll be good, but given the youth at receiver and strength on the offensive line, the Spartans likely will run the ball more in 2012.
Denard Robinson, Michigan: Don't laugh. Shoelace threw for more than 2,500 yards in 2010, after all. He looked much better with his fundamentals this spring, and if he can get some of last season's 15 interceptions to go for catches by his teammates, that will help. It's unlikely, but never say never when it comes to Robinson.
Taylor Martinez, Nebraska: Martinez's 2,089 yards were a career high last season. He worked hard on his technique this offseason, and the Nebraska passing game should be much improved. The Huskers probably run it too well to have a 3,000 yard passer, but I do see Martinez's passing stats improving significantly.
Marqueis Gray, Minnesota: Gray threw for only 1,495 yards last season, but did have some big games, like against Michigan State (366 yards). I'd be stunned if he doesn't at least eclipse 2,000 yards. But does he have enough weapons around him, and will his running prowess hold down the passing numbers?
Unnamed Purdue quarterback: Caleb TerBush and Robert Marve combined to throw for 2,500 yards last season, and that was with TerBush as a newbie starter and Marve coming back from injury. If one of them seized the job and played full time, then 3,000 could be reachable. But it's more likely that Danny Hope will continue to rotate snaps between those two and Rob Henry.
Kain Colter, Northwestern: The Wildcats will have a deep and talented receiving corps, and they're not afraid to throw it around. The question is whether the athletic Colter can become more of a true passer, and how much Pat Fitzgerald will utilize Colter's ability to run.
Tre Roberson, Indiana: Roberson threw for less than 1,000 yards last season, but only played in nine games. He is improving as a passer, and the Hoosiers figure to open things up more in the passing game. Ben Chappell led the league in passing yards just two years ago. But 3,000 still seems like too much of a leap, and the probable lack of a bowl game hurts Roberson's chances.
Matt McGloin, Penn State: Whether it's McGloin or Paul Jones or Rob Bolden starting, they'll have a chance to post some good statistics under the guy who used to coach Tom Brady. But we've seen nothing from the Nittany Lions' quarterback options to suggest they can have that kind of season.
In closing, I wouldn't be surprised if we saw only one quarterback pass for 3,000 yards this season in the Big Ten. How many do you think will reach that milestone?
If you've reached that milestone as a quarterback, you're in pretty elite company. There were only 39 quarterbacks to do so in the FBS last season, and just three in the Big Ten: Michigan State's Kirk Cousins (3,316), Wisconsin's Russell Wilson (3,175) and Iowa's James Vandenberg (3,022). Northwestern's Dan Persa (2,376) missed three games and was limited in others, or else he might have made a run at it, too. No one else from the league surpassed 2,200 yards passing.
Of that group, only Vandenberg returns. The Big Ten isn't known as a huge passing league, so how many quarterbacks can reach 3,000 in 2012? Here's a breakdown of the top contenders in order of their chances of making it to 3K:
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Charlie NeibergallIowa's James Vandenberg is the Big Ten's lone returning 3,000-yard passer.
AP Photo/Charlie NeibergallIowa's James Vandenberg is the Big Ten's lone returning 3,000-yard passer.Nathan Scheelhaase, Illinois: Taking a flyer here. Scheelhaase threw for 2,110 in an offense that ran into the ground for the final six games. He won't have A.J. Jenkins around, and he'll have to learn an entirely new offense. But new coach Tim Beckman's spread attack could allow Scheelhaase to put up big numbers if the Illini can find enough weapons.
Danny O'Brien, Wisconsin: Assuming, as most do, that Maryland transfer O'Brien will beat out Joel Stave for the starting job, he has a chance to follow in Russell Wilson's footsteps. A tremendous running game means receivers often will be open. O'Brien threw for more than 2,400 yards as a freshman at Maryland. Then again, Wilson was the first quarterback in Wisconsin history to amass 3,000 passing yards, and he played about as flawlessly as you can play.
Braxton Miller, Ohio State: Miller threw for only 1,159 yards last season, but it took several games for him to become the starter, and the Buckeyes often decided not to pass much. He showed his potential by throwing for 235 yards against Michigan, and the Buckeyes were slinging it all over the place in the spring game. Miller's passing numbers should go way up under Urban Meyer, but 3,000 still seems like quite a reach.
Andrew Maxwell, Michigan State: Maxwell is stepping into the same offense that produced the passing yards leader last season in the Big Ten. But B.J. Cunningham and Keshawn Martin are gone, and Maxwell has never started a game. I think he'll be good, but given the youth at receiver and strength on the offensive line, the Spartans likely will run the ball more in 2012.
Denard Robinson, Michigan: Don't laugh. Shoelace threw for more than 2,500 yards in 2010, after all. He looked much better with his fundamentals this spring, and if he can get some of last season's 15 interceptions to go for catches by his teammates, that will help. It's unlikely, but never say never when it comes to Robinson.
Taylor Martinez, Nebraska: Martinez's 2,089 yards were a career high last season. He worked hard on his technique this offseason, and the Nebraska passing game should be much improved. The Huskers probably run it too well to have a 3,000 yard passer, but I do see Martinez's passing stats improving significantly.
Marqueis Gray, Minnesota: Gray threw for only 1,495 yards last season, but did have some big games, like against Michigan State (366 yards). I'd be stunned if he doesn't at least eclipse 2,000 yards. But does he have enough weapons around him, and will his running prowess hold down the passing numbers?
Unnamed Purdue quarterback: Caleb TerBush and Robert Marve combined to throw for 2,500 yards last season, and that was with TerBush as a newbie starter and Marve coming back from injury. If one of them seized the job and played full time, then 3,000 could be reachable. But it's more likely that Danny Hope will continue to rotate snaps between those two and Rob Henry.
Kain Colter, Northwestern: The Wildcats will have a deep and talented receiving corps, and they're not afraid to throw it around. The question is whether the athletic Colter can become more of a true passer, and how much Pat Fitzgerald will utilize Colter's ability to run.
Tre Roberson, Indiana: Roberson threw for less than 1,000 yards last season, but only played in nine games. He is improving as a passer, and the Hoosiers figure to open things up more in the passing game. Ben Chappell led the league in passing yards just two years ago. But 3,000 still seems like too much of a leap, and the probable lack of a bowl game hurts Roberson's chances.
Matt McGloin, Penn State: Whether it's McGloin or Paul Jones or Rob Bolden starting, they'll have a chance to post some good statistics under the guy who used to coach Tom Brady. But we've seen nothing from the Nittany Lions' quarterback options to suggest they can have that kind of season.
In closing, I wouldn't be surprised if we saw only one quarterback pass for 3,000 yards this season in the Big Ten. How many do you think will reach that milestone?
Look, I know that you're concerned, but I'm designing T-shirts now. They're gonna be huge. Also medium and small.
- Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith says the department isn't facing any major violations right now. Former Buckeyes linebacker Andrew Sweat chooses safety over potential NFL stardom.
- Michigan State expects top quarterback Andrew Maxwell (knee) to be 100 percent by June. A look at several 2013 recruits Michigan State has offered.
- Jerry Kill says Minnesota needs a facilities upgrade soon. Minnesota's outgoing AD Joel Maturi weighs in on playoff possibilities and other Gopher-related topics.
- Penn State 2013 recruit Greg Webb talks about his recovery from a torn ACL. Lions coach Bill O'Brien reviews spring ball and looks ahead.
- Indiana coach Kevin Wilson is geared up for his second season in Bloomington. Wilson weighs in on the trickiness of non-league scheduling.
- BTN.com's Tom Dienhart looks at Week 3 in the Big Ten this season.
- Purdue offers scholarships to two teammates from Georgia (subscription required) who both play defensive end.
- Hail to the Orange writes that Illinois needs Tim Beckman to be its version of Hayden Fry.
- Great news as Iowa announcer Gary Dolphin is cancer free and ready for the 2012 season.
- Several freshmen offensive linemen could be in the mix for Michigan this year. Michigan's backup quarterbacks remain works in progress.
- A look back at Tom Rathman's 84-yard touchdown run for Nebraska in 1985.
Phil Steele names preseason All-B1G teams
May, 23, 2012
May 23
2:15
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
The tireless Phil Steele, he of the eponymous and indispensable college football preview magazine, has come out with his preseason All-Big Ten teams. You can find them -- which include four teams for offense, defense and special teams -- on his blog here.
Some of Steele's choices were obvious ones, like Montee Ball, Rex Burkhead, Ricky Wagner and Taylor Lewan on the first-team offense, and John Simon, Kawann Short, William Gholston, Gerald Hodges, Chris Borland, Mike Taylor and Johnny Adams on the first-team defense.
Steele picked Michigan's Denard Robinson as his first-team quarterback, with Ohio State's Braxton Miller on the second team. Iowa's James Vandenberg doesn't appear on his top four teams, which is very surprising.
Receiver may be the hardest position to figure out this year in the Big Ten. Steele has Wisconsin's Jared Abbrederis, Iowa's Keenan Davis and Michigan's Roy Roundtree on his first team. He picks Ohio State's Jake Stoneburner as the top tight end in a year when that position could be stacked. Wisconsin's Travis Frederick, Michigan State's Chris McDonald and Nebraska's Spencer Long are the first-team interior linemen.
Steele likes Ohio State's Johnathan Hankins as a first-team performer on the defensive line. He goes with four linebackers, making room for Illinois' Jonathan Brown. Iowa's Micah Hyde joins Adams at first-team cornerback, while Michigan State's Isaiah Lewis and Ohio State's C.J. Barnett are the safeties.
Wisconsin leads the way with seven first-team picks, while Michigan State has the most players on all four teams, with 16. Ohio State has 15, including receivers Corey Brown and Devin Smith on the fourth team. Minnesota had only one player on Steele's top four teams -- Troy Stoudermire, who appears as the fourth-team cornerback and fourth-team kick returner.
Some of Steele's choices were obvious ones, like Montee Ball, Rex Burkhead, Ricky Wagner and Taylor Lewan on the first-team offense, and John Simon, Kawann Short, William Gholston, Gerald Hodges, Chris Borland, Mike Taylor and Johnny Adams on the first-team defense.
Steele picked Michigan's Denard Robinson as his first-team quarterback, with Ohio State's Braxton Miller on the second team. Iowa's James Vandenberg doesn't appear on his top four teams, which is very surprising.
Receiver may be the hardest position to figure out this year in the Big Ten. Steele has Wisconsin's Jared Abbrederis, Iowa's Keenan Davis and Michigan's Roy Roundtree on his first team. He picks Ohio State's Jake Stoneburner as the top tight end in a year when that position could be stacked. Wisconsin's Travis Frederick, Michigan State's Chris McDonald and Nebraska's Spencer Long are the first-team interior linemen.
Steele likes Ohio State's Johnathan Hankins as a first-team performer on the defensive line. He goes with four linebackers, making room for Illinois' Jonathan Brown. Iowa's Micah Hyde joins Adams at first-team cornerback, while Michigan State's Isaiah Lewis and Ohio State's C.J. Barnett are the safeties.
Wisconsin leads the way with seven first-team picks, while Michigan State has the most players on all four teams, with 16. Ohio State has 15, including receivers Corey Brown and Devin Smith on the fourth team. Minnesota had only one player on Steele's top four teams -- Troy Stoudermire, who appears as the fourth-team cornerback and fourth-team kick returner.
Hump day linkage:
- Michigan AD Dave Brandon not only doesn't favor using campus sites for semifinal games, he doesn't think they should be played in the Midwest anywhere, not even indoors. Huh?
- Pat Harty argues that the Big Ten should go to geographical divisions to avoid some of the gaps between rivals on the schedule. Dallas Clark might be the best story of the Kirk Ferentz era.
- Bruce Feldman has an excellent story about how two dirty plays don't define Michigan State's William Gholston.
- Steven M. Sipple looks at some of the candidates to eventually replace Tom Osborne, including recent hire (and former Huskers player) Jamie Williams. Nebraska picked up its first offensive lineman in the Class of 2013.
- Joe Paterno earned a state pension of more than $13 million during his 61 years at Penn State. A look at four big recruiting targets for the Nittany Lions this summer. Rob Bolden is staying put.
- Purdue got a $2 million donation that could go toward some improvements at Ross-Ade Stadium (but not lights).
- Tom Dienhart breaks down the best of Week 2 in the 2012 Big Ten season.
- Minnesota's Jerry Kill shared some optimism at a Rotary Club event.
- A planned SEC Network could eclipse the revenues of the Big Ten's similar venture.
- Gene Smith says Ohio State's athletic department is in its "glory years."
- Stewart Mandel talks realignment and playoff possibilities in his SI.com mailbag.
What's on your mind today?
Luke from Cincinnati writes: Ohio State always pays its debts. No conference team has beaten Ohio State twice in a row since Wisconsin in 2003-2004. Revenge played a big factor in the Buckeye's win against Wisconsin last year, even though the team went 6-7 for the year. Do you think this is the year the Ohio State loses to the same conference team to back? How much of a factor does revenge normally play into most games? The Buckeyes seem to thrive on it.
Adam Rittenberg: Very interesting topic, Luke. There's a better chance Ohio State's run without consecutive losses to the same Big Ten squad ends this year, simply because the Buckeyes had five league losses in 2011. Remember, they lost a total of five Big Ten contests between 2005-2010, so there weren't many opportunities for the streak to end. Of the five league games Ohio State lost last fall, the Buckeyes must travel to both Michigan State and Penn State. The Michigan State game will be very tough, and you'd have to think the Spartans have the best chance to end Ohio State's run. Penn State could be tricky as well, as the game falls in November. Michigan should be Ohio State's toughest home test, followed by Nebraska. Purdue has given the Buckeyes fits in West Lafayette, but the Boilers will have a tough time winning in C-Bus. As far as revenge, it plays a role, particularly in rivalry games like Michigan. Ohio State certainly wants to avenge the Nebraska loss after blowing such a big lead in Lincoln last season.
Alden from Chicago writes: Adam, as a Spartan who attended both Michigan State-Wisconsin meetings in 2011 I am very disappointed with the schedule announcement in that the schools have a 4-year break from 2013-16. Living in Chicago around many Wisconsin fans I've felt a great rivalry budding here. The October and the B1G Championship games were absolutely two of the best football games I've seen and I've developed a genuine distaste for the Badgers. With both teams on top of their divisions there's still a good chance of meeting in the Championship game at least couple times during the break, which would continue adding ill will between the schools. I?m afraid though that without a regular season meeting the rivalry could sputter in the coming years and that would be a shame. What are your thoughts on this?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree it's a shame, Alden. Same goes for a four-year break with Ohio State and Nebraska, and Wisconsin and Iowa not playing yet again in 2015 and 2016. These are some of the downsides of having division play, 12 teams and protected crossover games. Each team is going to have a four-year gap with another squad -- just the way it is. Wisconsin's situation is a bit unique in that it loses geographical rivals by being in the Leaders division. The Wisconsin-Iowa series doesn't take place every year. Wisconsin doesn't play Michigan State or Michigan every year. The only protected game is Minnesota, which is a historic rivalry but one that lacks the significance of recent Wisconsin games with both Michigan State and Iowa.
Whit from the Czech Republic writes: This is probably a very naive hope, but is there any chance the Big Ten divisions will eventually be realigned into an East/West geographical split? I saw your posting of the schedules, and I was very disappointed to see that MSU will not play Wisconsin for four years, and same with Nebraska and OSU. In my view, if the divisions went to geography, the "protected crossovers" could be scrapped (since all traditional rivalries, I think, would be intact) and teams from opposite divisions could play each other at least five times out of every ten years. While that wouldn't assure yearly matchups between MSU/Wisconsin and OSU/Nebraska, it would at least assure that every four-year football player would get two chances against each opponent from the other division.
Adam Rittenberg: Whit, you're definitely not alone in this belief. The Big Ten split the divisions based on competitive balance and had branding very much in mind when it assigned Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska and Penn State. The protected crossover component was included because you can't have Ohio State and Michigan in opposite divisions without having them play each year. If Ohio State and Michigan were in the same division, could the Big Ten get rid of protected crossovers entirely? It's very possible. And that would reduce the gaps when teams play one another. It's something the league certainly could reassess down the road, but I don't see any changes on the horizon.
Touchdown! Davis from Lincoln, Neb., writes: Adam, cool ditty you wrote looking at future schedules and crossover games. So, good sir, what's your over/under on Nebraska winning 9.5 regular season games in 2012? As a fan, I'm assuming Nebraska will run the table and win the National Championship vs. Oklahoma in the most amazing National Title game ever (can you imagine a Nebraska v. Oklahoma title game, with all the past tradition and story lines?). Objectively, I'm hoping we go 10-2 in the regular season. Quick schedule breakdown... Non Conference: I think Southern Miss is a decent/good team but we win by 20+. The UCLA game might be a crap shoot, although I think we ultimately win regardless (and I'm excited to watch a game played in the Rose Bowl). Conference: Vs. Wisconsin, @ Ohio State, Vs. Michigan, @ Michigan State. I think if Nebraska loses two games, it's among these teams. I don't believe we'll lose to Northwestern again, even though it's a road game and I respect their team. Nebraska Vs. Michigan is my game of the year. It maybe has been said before, but I believe the ultimate conference champion this year is coming from the Legends division, and it's between Michigan, Michigan State, and Nebraska. I'm really interested to watch Ohio State this year with Meyer, etc. Your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree with you that the Big Ten champ comes out of the Legends division. Michigan State, Michigan and Nebraska are obviously the top contenders there. Nebraska has to defend its home turf to reach 10 wins this season, and I agree that the Michigan game is huge. But if Nebraska really wants to make a statement in the Big Ten, it absolutely has to record a signature road win. The two big opportunities are at Ohio State and at Michigan State. Nebraska needs to win one of those games for this season to be deemed a success. If Nebraska goes 10-2 with losses in East Lansing and Columbus, is the season a step forward? Maybe a little step, but Nebraska will only announce itself as a potential Big Ten power when it wins a huge game on the road. The Penn State win was nice, but Penn State had an inflated record, and obviously there were unique circumstances surrounding that game.
Alex from Shanghai writes: Hey Adam, greetings from China! Kind of disappointed that I can't get my lunch links until the middle of the night over here, but what can you do? For Michigan fans, it traditionally goes without saying that the OSU game is the most important game on the schedule, no exceptions. But do you see a different situation this coming year? It can, and perhaps even should be argued that the Michigan State game is more important. Michigan fans such as myself would love nothing more than to shut Mark Dantonio up and get that 4-year losing streak off our backs. This is also coupled with the fact that this game could very well determine the Legends Division title, and that its Michigan's only home game of any national relevance as of today. As much as it pains me to say, I think the MSU game, at least for the 2012 season, is more important than the OSU game. What are your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: Alex, thanks for the note! We'll see about posting a midnight edition of lunch links, so you could get them at the right time (I'll make Bennett do it). In terms of reaching the Big Ten title, the Michigan State game certainly could be more significant for Michigan. It's a division game, which is critical, and it's also a division home game. Both division champions in 2011 -- Wisconsin and Michigan State -- were undefeated at home and obviously won their division home contests. I think this pattern will continue in the coming seasons. The Ohio State game always will be huge for Michigan. While it was great for the Wolverines to end the losing streak, they'll get more mileage from a win in Columbus against what will be a better Ohio State team, not to mention a squad playing its last game of the season because of the bowl ban. But Michigan could be in the position Michigan State was last year, having locked up the division title before the final Saturday of regular-season play. The bottom line is both games should matter a lot for Michigan, but in terms of reaching Indianapolis, the MSU game is absolutely critical.
Hunter from Jackson, Mich., writes: I noticed your comment about November night games, and i couldnt agree more. Do you think it would ever be possible for the Big Ten to allow November games under the lights? And to push a non-conference game to the end of the season? I would personally love to see SEC teams like Alabama or LSU that are used to playing in that heat to march into Camp Randall, Spartan Stadium, Happy Valley etc. in below freezing temps. It would have a huge impact on the game.
Adam Rittenberg: Hunter, I think the Big Ten eventually will change its policy when there's significant turnover in the athletic director ranks. Most of the old guard seems to be lukewarm on night games, and Purdue's Morgan Burke actually turned down a night game against Michigan this year. But the popularity of night football around the country, coupled with the fact it looks so good on TV, should eventually lead to a change in policy. Sure, the weather is a concern, but they play November night games in every other conference, including the MAC and the Big East. The Big Ten's view is archaic, and it should change. As far as moving up a league game to September, the momentum for this seems to have slowed significantly following the Pac-12 scheduling agreement. Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema and former Illinois coach Ron Zook seemed to favor a schedule that more closely resembled those in the SEC, but the Big Ten schedules between now and 2016 have only four league contests -- two in 2013, two in 2014 -- played during the month of September.
Matt from Minnesota writes: Adam -- When I heard the anouncement of the Big12 SEC bowl, my first thought was the playoff was dead. Doesn't this really setup the plus one model. The winner or the Pac12/B1G will play the Big12/SEC winner for the NC. It makes since. I pushes out the Big East, ACC and the independents. It keeps the Rose Bowl. It allow the four main conference to Bid out the NC Game and split the revenue. Don't you think this would work?
Adam Rittenberg: Matt, I guess it's possible, and The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette's Scott Dochterman wrote about this very topic today. I still don't know if pushing out Notre Dame or the ACC ends up happening, as there would be some significant pushback from those squads. As Nebraska chancellor Harvey Perlman recently told me, he and others in his position still favor the plus-one over a four-team playoff within the bowls. But it seems like the presidents could be swayed to accept a true four-team playoff. I also don't know if a league like the SEC, which has had so many top-5 teams, would advocate for a plus-one instead of a four-team playoff where it could have multiple entries. The SEC and Big 12 definitely made a power move with this bowl game, but I don't see it translating directly to a plus-one.
John from Charlotte, N.C., writes: Adam, While definitely not important to on field performance, I love a good pre-game field entrance. It gets the crowd fired up for the game and seemingly the home team ready for the kickoff. How would you rank the B1G's teams field entrance or pregame routines? Thanks, and keep up the good work.
Adam Rittenberg: Big fan of pregame entrances, too, John. I always love Iowa's entrance to "Back in Black," followed by "The Swarm." In my mind, former Hawkeyes D-lineman Adrian Clayborn will always be at the front of the line. I've only seen Nebraska's "Tunnel Walk" take place once in person, but it's quickly becoming one of my favorites. Michigan's entrance with the banner touching is classic college football.
Luke from Cincinnati writes: Ohio State always pays its debts. No conference team has beaten Ohio State twice in a row since Wisconsin in 2003-2004. Revenge played a big factor in the Buckeye's win against Wisconsin last year, even though the team went 6-7 for the year. Do you think this is the year the Ohio State loses to the same conference team to back? How much of a factor does revenge normally play into most games? The Buckeyes seem to thrive on it.
Adam Rittenberg: Very interesting topic, Luke. There's a better chance Ohio State's run without consecutive losses to the same Big Ten squad ends this year, simply because the Buckeyes had five league losses in 2011. Remember, they lost a total of five Big Ten contests between 2005-2010, so there weren't many opportunities for the streak to end. Of the five league games Ohio State lost last fall, the Buckeyes must travel to both Michigan State and Penn State. The Michigan State game will be very tough, and you'd have to think the Spartans have the best chance to end Ohio State's run. Penn State could be tricky as well, as the game falls in November. Michigan should be Ohio State's toughest home test, followed by Nebraska. Purdue has given the Buckeyes fits in West Lafayette, but the Boilers will have a tough time winning in C-Bus. As far as revenge, it plays a role, particularly in rivalry games like Michigan. Ohio State certainly wants to avenge the Nebraska loss after blowing such a big lead in Lincoln last season.
Alden from Chicago writes: Adam, as a Spartan who attended both Michigan State-Wisconsin meetings in 2011 I am very disappointed with the schedule announcement in that the schools have a 4-year break from 2013-16. Living in Chicago around many Wisconsin fans I've felt a great rivalry budding here. The October and the B1G Championship games were absolutely two of the best football games I've seen and I've developed a genuine distaste for the Badgers. With both teams on top of their divisions there's still a good chance of meeting in the Championship game at least couple times during the break, which would continue adding ill will between the schools. I?m afraid though that without a regular season meeting the rivalry could sputter in the coming years and that would be a shame. What are your thoughts on this?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree it's a shame, Alden. Same goes for a four-year break with Ohio State and Nebraska, and Wisconsin and Iowa not playing yet again in 2015 and 2016. These are some of the downsides of having division play, 12 teams and protected crossover games. Each team is going to have a four-year gap with another squad -- just the way it is. Wisconsin's situation is a bit unique in that it loses geographical rivals by being in the Leaders division. The Wisconsin-Iowa series doesn't take place every year. Wisconsin doesn't play Michigan State or Michigan every year. The only protected game is Minnesota, which is a historic rivalry but one that lacks the significance of recent Wisconsin games with both Michigan State and Iowa.
Whit from the Czech Republic writes: This is probably a very naive hope, but is there any chance the Big Ten divisions will eventually be realigned into an East/West geographical split? I saw your posting of the schedules, and I was very disappointed to see that MSU will not play Wisconsin for four years, and same with Nebraska and OSU. In my view, if the divisions went to geography, the "protected crossovers" could be scrapped (since all traditional rivalries, I think, would be intact) and teams from opposite divisions could play each other at least five times out of every ten years. While that wouldn't assure yearly matchups between MSU/Wisconsin and OSU/Nebraska, it would at least assure that every four-year football player would get two chances against each opponent from the other division.
Adam Rittenberg: Whit, you're definitely not alone in this belief. The Big Ten split the divisions based on competitive balance and had branding very much in mind when it assigned Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska and Penn State. The protected crossover component was included because you can't have Ohio State and Michigan in opposite divisions without having them play each year. If Ohio State and Michigan were in the same division, could the Big Ten get rid of protected crossovers entirely? It's very possible. And that would reduce the gaps when teams play one another. It's something the league certainly could reassess down the road, but I don't see any changes on the horizon.
Touchdown! Davis from Lincoln, Neb., writes: Adam, cool ditty you wrote looking at future schedules and crossover games. So, good sir, what's your over/under on Nebraska winning 9.5 regular season games in 2012? As a fan, I'm assuming Nebraska will run the table and win the National Championship vs. Oklahoma in the most amazing National Title game ever (can you imagine a Nebraska v. Oklahoma title game, with all the past tradition and story lines?). Objectively, I'm hoping we go 10-2 in the regular season. Quick schedule breakdown... Non Conference: I think Southern Miss is a decent/good team but we win by 20+. The UCLA game might be a crap shoot, although I think we ultimately win regardless (and I'm excited to watch a game played in the Rose Bowl). Conference: Vs. Wisconsin, @ Ohio State, Vs. Michigan, @ Michigan State. I think if Nebraska loses two games, it's among these teams. I don't believe we'll lose to Northwestern again, even though it's a road game and I respect their team. Nebraska Vs. Michigan is my game of the year. It maybe has been said before, but I believe the ultimate conference champion this year is coming from the Legends division, and it's between Michigan, Michigan State, and Nebraska. I'm really interested to watch Ohio State this year with Meyer, etc. Your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree with you that the Big Ten champ comes out of the Legends division. Michigan State, Michigan and Nebraska are obviously the top contenders there. Nebraska has to defend its home turf to reach 10 wins this season, and I agree that the Michigan game is huge. But if Nebraska really wants to make a statement in the Big Ten, it absolutely has to record a signature road win. The two big opportunities are at Ohio State and at Michigan State. Nebraska needs to win one of those games for this season to be deemed a success. If Nebraska goes 10-2 with losses in East Lansing and Columbus, is the season a step forward? Maybe a little step, but Nebraska will only announce itself as a potential Big Ten power when it wins a huge game on the road. The Penn State win was nice, but Penn State had an inflated record, and obviously there were unique circumstances surrounding that game.
Alex from Shanghai writes: Hey Adam, greetings from China! Kind of disappointed that I can't get my lunch links until the middle of the night over here, but what can you do? For Michigan fans, it traditionally goes without saying that the OSU game is the most important game on the schedule, no exceptions. But do you see a different situation this coming year? It can, and perhaps even should be argued that the Michigan State game is more important. Michigan fans such as myself would love nothing more than to shut Mark Dantonio up and get that 4-year losing streak off our backs. This is also coupled with the fact that this game could very well determine the Legends Division title, and that its Michigan's only home game of any national relevance as of today. As much as it pains me to say, I think the MSU game, at least for the 2012 season, is more important than the OSU game. What are your thoughts?
Adam Rittenberg: Alex, thanks for the note! We'll see about posting a midnight edition of lunch links, so you could get them at the right time (I'll make Bennett do it). In terms of reaching the Big Ten title, the Michigan State game certainly could be more significant for Michigan. It's a division game, which is critical, and it's also a division home game. Both division champions in 2011 -- Wisconsin and Michigan State -- were undefeated at home and obviously won their division home contests. I think this pattern will continue in the coming seasons. The Ohio State game always will be huge for Michigan. While it was great for the Wolverines to end the losing streak, they'll get more mileage from a win in Columbus against what will be a better Ohio State team, not to mention a squad playing its last game of the season because of the bowl ban. But Michigan could be in the position Michigan State was last year, having locked up the division title before the final Saturday of regular-season play. The bottom line is both games should matter a lot for Michigan, but in terms of reaching Indianapolis, the MSU game is absolutely critical.
Hunter from Jackson, Mich., writes: I noticed your comment about November night games, and i couldnt agree more. Do you think it would ever be possible for the Big Ten to allow November games under the lights? And to push a non-conference game to the end of the season? I would personally love to see SEC teams like Alabama or LSU that are used to playing in that heat to march into Camp Randall, Spartan Stadium, Happy Valley etc. in below freezing temps. It would have a huge impact on the game.
Adam Rittenberg: Hunter, I think the Big Ten eventually will change its policy when there's significant turnover in the athletic director ranks. Most of the old guard seems to be lukewarm on night games, and Purdue's Morgan Burke actually turned down a night game against Michigan this year. But the popularity of night football around the country, coupled with the fact it looks so good on TV, should eventually lead to a change in policy. Sure, the weather is a concern, but they play November night games in every other conference, including the MAC and the Big East. The Big Ten's view is archaic, and it should change. As far as moving up a league game to September, the momentum for this seems to have slowed significantly following the Pac-12 scheduling agreement. Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema and former Illinois coach Ron Zook seemed to favor a schedule that more closely resembled those in the SEC, but the Big Ten schedules between now and 2016 have only four league contests -- two in 2013, two in 2014 -- played during the month of September.
Matt from Minnesota writes: Adam -- When I heard the anouncement of the Big12 SEC bowl, my first thought was the playoff was dead. Doesn't this really setup the plus one model. The winner or the Pac12/B1G will play the Big12/SEC winner for the NC. It makes since. I pushes out the Big East, ACC and the independents. It keeps the Rose Bowl. It allow the four main conference to Bid out the NC Game and split the revenue. Don't you think this would work?
Adam Rittenberg: Matt, I guess it's possible, and The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette's Scott Dochterman wrote about this very topic today. I still don't know if pushing out Notre Dame or the ACC ends up happening, as there would be some significant pushback from those squads. As Nebraska chancellor Harvey Perlman recently told me, he and others in his position still favor the plus-one over a four-team playoff within the bowls. But it seems like the presidents could be swayed to accept a true four-team playoff. I also don't know if a league like the SEC, which has had so many top-5 teams, would advocate for a plus-one instead of a four-team playoff where it could have multiple entries. The SEC and Big 12 definitely made a power move with this bowl game, but I don't see it translating directly to a plus-one.
John from Charlotte, N.C., writes: Adam, While definitely not important to on field performance, I love a good pre-game field entrance. It gets the crowd fired up for the game and seemingly the home team ready for the kickoff. How would you rank the B1G's teams field entrance or pregame routines? Thanks, and keep up the good work.
Adam Rittenberg: Big fan of pregame entrances, too, John. I always love Iowa's entrance to "Back in Black," followed by "The Swarm." In my mind, former Hawkeyes D-lineman Adrian Clayborn will always be at the front of the line. I've only seen Nebraska's "Tunnel Walk" take place once in person, but it's quickly becoming one of my favorites. Michigan's entrance with the banner touching is classic college football.
Purdue left in the dark with night games
May, 22, 2012
May 22
2:30
PM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
I always enjoy my visits with Purdue athletic director Morgan Burke. As the Big Ten's longest-tenured AD -- he took over in 1993 -- Burke has an interesting perspective on how the league has changed and evolved over the years.
But I have to wonder whether he's stuck in the past regarding night football.
Purdue, as some are well aware, is the only Big Ten team not playing a true night game this season. The Boilers had one night contest -- a home game against Notre Dame -- in 2011, and they likely could have hosted another marquee opponent at night this season.
From The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier:
He later added:
Purdue's Oct. 4 game against Michigan will kick off at 4 p.m. ET. Had it been a true prime-time game, kickoff would have been at 8 p.m. ET or 7 p.m. ET, meaning the game would finish somewhere between 10:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
I understand Burke has to look at the bigger picture, and it's nice to prevent older fans from driving long distances late at night. But one night game a year, on a Saturday night, particularly against an opponent like Michigan, isn't asking too much. For a Purdue team trying to increase attendance and generate more buzz, having the Michigan game at 7 or 8 p.m. makes total sense. Fans attending Purdue basketball games that tip off at 8 or 9 p.m. don't seem to mind the late-night drives home.
The logic here is simple: night football is more exciting. Night games are great showcase opportunities for programs, and they're great for television. Most fans love them. Students who don't normally attend day games will show up for night games. It's why you're seeing more and more night games around the country every year.
Other Big Ten teams in similar positions to Purdue -- looking to boost attendance and attract more attention -- have been receptive to night games. Indiana has been especially open to them since the Big Ten Network launched. The Hoosiers have three home games at night this season (Indiana State, Ball State and Ohio State). Minnesota and Northwestern also have been open to home night games. Both teams have one home game at night this year after having two each in 2011.
The subplot to Purdue's issue is a resistance to install permanent lights at Ross-Ade Stadium. Burke told me last week at the Big Ten spring meetings, "They [fans] want me to put lights in, and I keep fighting them and say, 'Why do I want to put lights in if ABC and ESPN will pay for it?'"
Indiana's Memorial Stadium, as Purdue fans know, has permanent lights. So does Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium.
It's unlikely Purdue goes without a true night game in 2013, as Notre Dame returns to West Lafayette. The Boilers-Irish games at Ross-Ade almost always take place at night. But for the most part, Purdue home games kick off at noon ET.
Michigan still can get away with such an approach in today's college football environment. But Purdue should be doing all it can to showcase its program, and this seems like a missed opportunity.
But I have to wonder whether he's stuck in the past regarding night football.
Purdue, as some are well aware, is the only Big Ten team not playing a true night game this season. The Boilers had one night contest -- a home game against Notre Dame -- in 2011, and they likely could have hosted another marquee opponent at night this season.
From The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier:
"I probably could've had a night game with Michigan, but I lobbied them for late afternoon so it wouldn't be late for our people to get home," Burke said.
He later added:
"I realize there are some people out there that feel that's a real benefit. They have to stand back, as do I, and look at it from every possible angle. I know there's a vocal group who feel that's the right thing to do, but they don't have any logic other than it would be nice to have a night game."
Purdue's Oct. 4 game against Michigan will kick off at 4 p.m. ET. Had it been a true prime-time game, kickoff would have been at 8 p.m. ET or 7 p.m. ET, meaning the game would finish somewhere between 10:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
[+] Enlarge
Cal Sport Media via AP ImagesLast season, Purdue's only home night game came Oct. 1 against Notre Dame.
Cal Sport Media via AP ImagesLast season, Purdue's only home night game came Oct. 1 against Notre Dame.The logic here is simple: night football is more exciting. Night games are great showcase opportunities for programs, and they're great for television. Most fans love them. Students who don't normally attend day games will show up for night games. It's why you're seeing more and more night games around the country every year.
Other Big Ten teams in similar positions to Purdue -- looking to boost attendance and attract more attention -- have been receptive to night games. Indiana has been especially open to them since the Big Ten Network launched. The Hoosiers have three home games at night this season (Indiana State, Ball State and Ohio State). Minnesota and Northwestern also have been open to home night games. Both teams have one home game at night this year after having two each in 2011.
The subplot to Purdue's issue is a resistance to install permanent lights at Ross-Ade Stadium. Burke told me last week at the Big Ten spring meetings, "They [fans] want me to put lights in, and I keep fighting them and say, 'Why do I want to put lights in if ABC and ESPN will pay for it?'"
Indiana's Memorial Stadium, as Purdue fans know, has permanent lights. So does Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium.
It's unlikely Purdue goes without a true night game in 2013, as Notre Dame returns to West Lafayette. The Boilers-Irish games at Ross-Ade almost always take place at night. But for the most part, Purdue home games kick off at noon ET.
Michigan still can get away with such an approach in today's college football environment. But Purdue should be doing all it can to showcase its program, and this seems like a missed opportunity.
B1G could be in for tight end renaissance
May, 22, 2012
May 22
1:05
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
When you think Big Ten football, what usually comes to mind is big, corn-fed Midwestern players and bruising offenses. The kind of place that would be perfect for a tight end.
But the 2011 season was a little lackluster for that position in the league, at least as far as the passing game goes. Sure, Northwestern's Drake Dunsmore and Wisconsin's Jacob Pedersen were Mackey Award semifinalists, but those two and Michigan State's Brian Linthicum were the only two tight ends in the conference to record more than 25 catches. Some guys we expected to have big years, like Nebraska's Kyler Reed, Minnesota's Eric Lair and Indiana's Ted Bolser, were nearly invisible on the stat sheet. And there was certainly no one who rose the level of recent Big Ten stars like Dallas Clark, Matt Spaeth, Travis Beckum, Lance Kendricks or Dustin Keller.
Dunsmore, who won the league's inaugural Kwalick-Clark tight end of the year award, and Linthicum have both graduated. Yet 2012 is shaping up as a potentially big season for tight ends across the league.
Some of it has to do with changing offenses and playcallers who love utilizing the tight end. Urban Meyer made a star out of Aaron Hernandez at Florida and could do the same with Jake Stoneburner, who started off blazing hot last year before the Ohio State offense forgot about him. With the Buckeyes searching for playmakers, expect Stoneburner to be utilized heavily in 2012.
"Seeing Hernandez make all those plays makes someone like me pretty happy," Stoneburner told Adam Rittenberg last month. "It's something I've been waiting for since I graduated high school, being able to go out there knowing you're going to get the opportunity to get the ball more than once or twice a game. "
Bill O'Brien coached Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski as offensive coordinator with the New England Patriots, which featured the tight end as much as anybody in football. Now O'Brien is at Penn State, where tight ends have mostly been an afterthought. That will change quickly.
"That’s a very important part of what we’re going to do offensively,” O’Brien told reporters in March. “Obviously, the last two years in New England taught me a lot about the use of a tight end, multiple tight ends.”
At Iowa, new offensive coordinator Greg Davis is raving about sophomore C.J. Fiedorowicz, a 6-foot-7, 265-pounder who began to emerge late last season as a weapon. With an uncertain running game and an excellent passer in quarterback James Vandenberg, Fiedorowicz could follow in the footsteps of Clark and Tony Moeaki as breakout Hawkeyes tight ends. Coincidentally, Iowa's new offensive line coach is Brian Ferentz, who coached the tight ends with the Patriots last year.
“You’ll see the tight ends playing outside sometimes,” Davis told the Des Moines Register during spring practice. “Used to seeing them in motion, but there will be motion in wide receiver sets in some situations because they’re tough match-ups.”
Wisconsin returns one of the best tight ends in the country in Pedersen, who had led Big Ten tight ends with eight touchdown catches a year ago. Bret Bielema is also excited about the depth at the position, with veterans Brian Wozniak and Sam Arneson, redshirt freshmen Austin Traylor and Austin Maly and Pittsburgh transfer Brock DeCicco. Given the inexperience at receiver outside of Jared Abbrederis, the Badgers could look to throw to their tight ends even more this season.
Indiana's Bolser had only 14 catches last year, but he was one of the stars of the spring for the Hoosiers. An improved passing game should help him become more of a factor. Purdue likes the depth it has at tight end, led by Gabe Holmes and Crosby Wright.
“A year ago it was one of the leanest positions on our football team," Boilers coach Danny Hope told reporters in the spring, "and now I think going into the season that the tight end position is going to be one of our strengths.”
Reed's numbers dropped last year, but he still led Nebraska with an average of 17.1 yards per catch. He and fellow senior Ben Cotton form a nice tandem of targets for Taylor Martinez. Michigan State must replace Linthicum but is optimistic about 6-foot-5, 280-pound Dion Sims, who practiced this spring with a cast on his hand. Sims could provide a safety valve for new quarterback Andrew Maxwell early on as the Spartans break in some green receivers.
Minnesota's Moses Alipate will at least be a curiosity as a former quarterback who grew to 290 pounds. Michigan needs Brandon Moore or someone else to step in for Kevin Koger, while Illinois' Jon Davis could have a different role in the team's new spread offense after a promising freshman campaign. Whoever replaces Dunsmore for Northwestern should get a lot of touches.
Tight ends could play an important part of many Big Ten teams' attacks this fall. Just as it should be.
But the 2011 season was a little lackluster for that position in the league, at least as far as the passing game goes. Sure, Northwestern's Drake Dunsmore and Wisconsin's Jacob Pedersen were Mackey Award semifinalists, but those two and Michigan State's Brian Linthicum were the only two tight ends in the conference to record more than 25 catches. Some guys we expected to have big years, like Nebraska's Kyler Reed, Minnesota's Eric Lair and Indiana's Ted Bolser, were nearly invisible on the stat sheet. And there was certainly no one who rose the level of recent Big Ten stars like Dallas Clark, Matt Spaeth, Travis Beckum, Lance Kendricks or Dustin Keller.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Matt SaylesJacob Pedersen led the Big Ten's tight ends with eight touchdown catches last season.
AP Photo/Matt SaylesJacob Pedersen led the Big Ten's tight ends with eight touchdown catches last season.Some of it has to do with changing offenses and playcallers who love utilizing the tight end. Urban Meyer made a star out of Aaron Hernandez at Florida and could do the same with Jake Stoneburner, who started off blazing hot last year before the Ohio State offense forgot about him. With the Buckeyes searching for playmakers, expect Stoneburner to be utilized heavily in 2012.
"Seeing Hernandez make all those plays makes someone like me pretty happy," Stoneburner told Adam Rittenberg last month. "It's something I've been waiting for since I graduated high school, being able to go out there knowing you're going to get the opportunity to get the ball more than once or twice a game. "
Bill O'Brien coached Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski as offensive coordinator with the New England Patriots, which featured the tight end as much as anybody in football. Now O'Brien is at Penn State, where tight ends have mostly been an afterthought. That will change quickly.
"That’s a very important part of what we’re going to do offensively,” O’Brien told reporters in March. “Obviously, the last two years in New England taught me a lot about the use of a tight end, multiple tight ends.”
At Iowa, new offensive coordinator Greg Davis is raving about sophomore C.J. Fiedorowicz, a 6-foot-7, 265-pounder who began to emerge late last season as a weapon. With an uncertain running game and an excellent passer in quarterback James Vandenberg, Fiedorowicz could follow in the footsteps of Clark and Tony Moeaki as breakout Hawkeyes tight ends. Coincidentally, Iowa's new offensive line coach is Brian Ferentz, who coached the tight ends with the Patriots last year.
“You’ll see the tight ends playing outside sometimes,” Davis told the Des Moines Register during spring practice. “Used to seeing them in motion, but there will be motion in wide receiver sets in some situations because they’re tough match-ups.”
Wisconsin returns one of the best tight ends in the country in Pedersen, who had led Big Ten tight ends with eight touchdown catches a year ago. Bret Bielema is also excited about the depth at the position, with veterans Brian Wozniak and Sam Arneson, redshirt freshmen Austin Traylor and Austin Maly and Pittsburgh transfer Brock DeCicco. Given the inexperience at receiver outside of Jared Abbrederis, the Badgers could look to throw to their tight ends even more this season.
Indiana's Bolser had only 14 catches last year, but he was one of the stars of the spring for the Hoosiers. An improved passing game should help him become more of a factor. Purdue likes the depth it has at tight end, led by Gabe Holmes and Crosby Wright.
“A year ago it was one of the leanest positions on our football team," Boilers coach Danny Hope told reporters in the spring, "and now I think going into the season that the tight end position is going to be one of our strengths.”
Reed's numbers dropped last year, but he still led Nebraska with an average of 17.1 yards per catch. He and fellow senior Ben Cotton form a nice tandem of targets for Taylor Martinez. Michigan State must replace Linthicum but is optimistic about 6-foot-5, 280-pound Dion Sims, who practiced this spring with a cast on his hand. Sims could provide a safety valve for new quarterback Andrew Maxwell early on as the Spartans break in some green receivers.
Minnesota's Moses Alipate will at least be a curiosity as a former quarterback who grew to 290 pounds. Michigan needs Brandon Moore or someone else to step in for Kevin Koger, while Illinois' Jon Davis could have a different role in the team's new spread offense after a promising freshman campaign. Whoever replaces Dunsmore for Northwestern should get a lot of touches.
Tight ends could play an important part of many Big Ten teams' attacks this fall. Just as it should be.
Links are schedule-heavy today, as everyone is weighing in on the 2015/2016 slates.
- One downside of the future schedules is a four-year break for Ohio State and Nebraska.
- Wisconsin finally returns to Michigan's schedule in 2015. Wolverines coach Brady Hoke has restored pride among former players.
- After two unforgettable games in 2011, Michigan State and Wisconsin won't meet from 2013-16. Pat Caputo writes that Michigan State and Michigan should play at night.
- With Rob Bolden's status up in the air, Penn State recruit Steven Bench is ready to be the team's No. 3 quarterback. Polish off the Land Grant Trophy -- it's coming back in 2015.
- Illinois should have no trouble marketing its 2015 home schedule. Illini coach Tim Beckman, aware of the sacrifices his family makes for his career, lets his kids choose which high school they attend.
- Iowa fans can weigh in on who their team's protected rival should be. Iowa's 2014 schedule is just plain weird, Mike Hlas writes.
- A closer look at Week 1 in the Big Ten this fall. Tom Dienhart also ranks the Big Ten's top defensive linemen.
- New Nebraska associate AD Jamie Williams understands the speculation about him taking over for Tom Osborne.
- Wisconsin's end-of-season game with Penn State helps offset the sting of not seeing Iowa nearly enough. The man behind the Bucky Badger mascot design passes away.
- Northwestern lucked out with the schedules for 2015 and 2016.
- Ohio State returns to Minnesota's schedule in 2015.
- Indiana will finally face new Big Ten member Nebraska in 2015.
- Mike Carmin details 10 things to know about Purdue's future schedules.
- Maybe the plus-one model isn't dead, Scott Dochterman writes.
As part of “College Football Live’s” 100 Days Till Kickoff countdown, we're taking a look at the top 10 players in the Big Ten for 2012. Please note that this list could look different when we do our Big Ten Top 25 players list later this summer.
But here's how they're ranked for the "College Football Live" event:
1. Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin: After scoring 39 touchdowns and earning an invitation to New York for the 2011 Heisman Trophy ceremony, Ball returned to school for his senior year and very much earned the No. 1 spot on this list. His numbers could go down a bit this year as they would be nearly impossible to top. Yet Ball, who has focused on pass blocking and improving his strength this offseason, could be a better all-around back in 2012.
2. Rex Burkhead, RB, Nebraska: Still a bit underrated nationally, Burkhead gets plenty of respect in the Big Ten. He ran for 1,357 yards and 15 touchdowns last season without much of a passing attack to keep defenses honest. The senior approaches every carry like his scholarship check depends on it, which is why Nebraska fans embrace him.
3. John Simon, DE, Ohio State: New Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer gushed over Simon this spring for his all-out commitment on and off the field. Simon had seven sacks and 16 tackles for loss on a banged-up defensive front last year and should contend for Big Ten defensive player of the year honors in 2012.
4. William Gholston, DE, Michigan State: We mean this in the best possible way: Gholston is a freak. How else to describe a 6-foot-7, 275-pounder with the speed of an outside linebacker? Gholston can be downright unblockable when he's focused and using proper technique, something he showed in an impressive Outback Bowl performance against Georgia in January. If that's a sign of things to come, he could be an All-American.
5. Gerald Hodges, LB, Penn State: Hodges has become the latest member of Linebacker U. to seize stardom. He broke out last season with 106 tackles, including 4.5 sacks, as he anchored the middle of one of the best defenses in the country. Fast, strong and instinctive, he's got everything you want from the linebacker position.
6. Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan: There might not be a more exciting player in the country than "Shoelace," who's put together more heroics than a comic-book character the past two seasons. But his passing remains suspect, as evidenced by his Big Ten-worst 15 interceptions last season. The word out of spring practice was that Robinson had improved his fundamentals and looked sharp as a passer. If he can add accuracy to his other many talents, the sky is the limit for him and the Wolverines this season.
7. Kawann Short, DT, Purdue: Short thought about skipping his senior year and entering the NFL but decided to make a push for first-round status this season. He certainly has the ability to do so as a potentially dominant run stuffer in the middle of Purdue's defensive line. Short had 17 tackles for loss and 6.5 tackles in 2011 and will be the focus of every opposing offensive game plan this season.
8. Chris Borland, LB, Wisconsin: Bret Bielema says Borland might be the best middle linebacker he's ever coached. Which is saying something, since Borland didn't move to the middle linebacker spot until last season. Though a bit undersized, he makes up for it with natural instincts and underrated athleticism. Borland made 143 tackles last year and formed one of the best defensive duos in the country with fellow Badgers linebacker Mike Taylor.
9. Silas Redd, RB, Penn State: Redd carried Penn State's offense during the middle of last season and was as productive as any back during the month of October. He eventually wore down a bit under a heavy workload and because of some injuries, but he could be primed for an even bigger year in new coach Bill O'Brien's offense. Redd ran for 1,241 yards last season and figures to find the end zone more than the seven trips he made there a year ago.
10. Jonathan Brown, LB, Illinois: Brown burst onto the scene as a sophomore, posting 108 tackles and 19.5 for loss as a quarterback-seeking missile. He was a bit inconsistent, however, and he lost his cool when he kneed a Northwestern player in the groin, earning a one-game suspension. Now a year older and wiser, Brown should be one of the top defensive playmakers in the conference, if not the country.
But here's how they're ranked for the "College Football Live" event:
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Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWisconsin's Montee Ball earned a trip to New York last season, and has earned a lot of hype coming into the fall.
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWisconsin's Montee Ball earned a trip to New York last season, and has earned a lot of hype coming into the fall.2. Rex Burkhead, RB, Nebraska: Still a bit underrated nationally, Burkhead gets plenty of respect in the Big Ten. He ran for 1,357 yards and 15 touchdowns last season without much of a passing attack to keep defenses honest. The senior approaches every carry like his scholarship check depends on it, which is why Nebraska fans embrace him.
3. John Simon, DE, Ohio State: New Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer gushed over Simon this spring for his all-out commitment on and off the field. Simon had seven sacks and 16 tackles for loss on a banged-up defensive front last year and should contend for Big Ten defensive player of the year honors in 2012.
4. William Gholston, DE, Michigan State: We mean this in the best possible way: Gholston is a freak. How else to describe a 6-foot-7, 275-pounder with the speed of an outside linebacker? Gholston can be downright unblockable when he's focused and using proper technique, something he showed in an impressive Outback Bowl performance against Georgia in January. If that's a sign of things to come, he could be an All-American.
5. Gerald Hodges, LB, Penn State: Hodges has become the latest member of Linebacker U. to seize stardom. He broke out last season with 106 tackles, including 4.5 sacks, as he anchored the middle of one of the best defenses in the country. Fast, strong and instinctive, he's got everything you want from the linebacker position.
6. Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan: There might not be a more exciting player in the country than "Shoelace," who's put together more heroics than a comic-book character the past two seasons. But his passing remains suspect, as evidenced by his Big Ten-worst 15 interceptions last season. The word out of spring practice was that Robinson had improved his fundamentals and looked sharp as a passer. If he can add accuracy to his other many talents, the sky is the limit for him and the Wolverines this season.
7. Kawann Short, DT, Purdue: Short thought about skipping his senior year and entering the NFL but decided to make a push for first-round status this season. He certainly has the ability to do so as a potentially dominant run stuffer in the middle of Purdue's defensive line. Short had 17 tackles for loss and 6.5 tackles in 2011 and will be the focus of every opposing offensive game plan this season.
8. Chris Borland, LB, Wisconsin: Bret Bielema says Borland might be the best middle linebacker he's ever coached. Which is saying something, since Borland didn't move to the middle linebacker spot until last season. Though a bit undersized, he makes up for it with natural instincts and underrated athleticism. Borland made 143 tackles last year and formed one of the best defensive duos in the country with fellow Badgers linebacker Mike Taylor.
9. Silas Redd, RB, Penn State: Redd carried Penn State's offense during the middle of last season and was as productive as any back during the month of October. He eventually wore down a bit under a heavy workload and because of some injuries, but he could be primed for an even bigger year in new coach Bill O'Brien's offense. Redd ran for 1,241 yards last season and figures to find the end zone more than the seven trips he made there a year ago.
10. Jonathan Brown, LB, Illinois: Brown burst onto the scene as a sophomore, posting 108 tackles and 19.5 for loss as a quarterback-seeking missile. He was a bit inconsistent, however, and he lost his cool when he kneed a Northwestern player in the groin, earning a one-game suspension. Now a year older and wiser, Brown should be one of the top defensive playmakers in the conference, if not the country.
Here is your linked-in invitation:
- Illinois is trying to increase its home attendance, and it's offering some very affordable season tickets.
- Kevin Wilson says this is a "fight year" for Indiana and that if the Hoosiers don't improve, "it’s just a vicious cycle that can go right down the toilet." (subscription required).
- Iowa athletic director Gary Barta is not a playoff proponent, and he says there currently is no Phase III for football facilities improvements.
- Brady Hoke wants to solve Michigan's road woes. Wolverines coaches are trying to control the hype surrounding the opener against Alabama.
- Hoke can't ignore his team's losing streak against Michigan State. A quarterback who is committed to the Spartans is starting to make a name for himself.
- Minnesota is outsourcing its ticket sales.
- Dave Butterfield's 87-yard punt return is remembered in the countdown of Nebraska touchdowns by distance. Incoming freshman linebacker Michael Rose is ready to get going after an injury setback. Nebraska is still a rookie when it comes to the Big Ten.
- The pressure is on Ohio State players to get better on their own this summer.
- The Penn State careers of Rob Bolden and Curtis Drake appear to be in doubt. Colleen O'Brien talks about being a coach's wife.
- Purdue welcomed back a pair of key players.
- Bret Bielema enjoyed a homecoming and talked about his journey.
- Mike Slive got the upper hand on Jim Delany again with the SEC/Big 12 bowl alliance, Kevin Scarbinsky says.
It's Friday. Cool, cool, cool.
- Ohio State has reported many secondary violations in the past year, including Urban Meyer telling Noah Spence "good luck" before a game. None of them are a big deal on their own, but all eyes are on the Buckeyes right now, Doug Lesmerises writes.
- Purdue coach Danny Hope is optimistic that Antavian Edison will be cleared of weapons charges and can play in 2012. He says Edison may have "been in the wrong place at the wrong time."
- New offensive coordinator Greg Davis's Texas ties helped Iowa land a commitment from a high school quarterback.
- No more surprise bee suits -- Michigan expects to announce all its special uniform plans for 2012. Charles Woodson says Brady Hoke's rebuilding job has been "unbelievable."
- The starting free safety spot remains one of the few jobs up for grabs on Michigan State's defense.
- Remember the plan to spotlight academic achievements on the Big Ten Network? Not so much.
- Nebraska has missed out on the star quarterback recruits it was pursuing but still has some potentially strong signalcallers on the radar.
- Strength coach Craig Fitzgerald put Penn State players through a taxing round of summer workouts that included one of the toughest days at the beach ever.
- Tom Dienhart analyzes Wisconsin's schedule.
- Nate Sandell dissects Minnesota's roster.
- Less Florida and more California could be in the Big Ten's bowl future.
- Illinois alums took a shot at Northwestern's "Chicago's Team" slogan.
Big Ten post-spring power rankings
May, 18, 2012
May 18
9:00
AM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg and
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
The book is closed on spring football in the Big Ten, but what did the chapters reveal? Although no games are played during the spring, which fuels optimism for all 12 teams, the 15 practices provide clues for the upcoming season. The Big Ten saw few major injuries to key players, some good news (the NCAA declaring Michigan State WR DeAnthony Arnett eligible for 2012) and some potentially troubling signs.
It's time to revive the power rankings coming out of the spring. We see separation with the top two teams, while Nos. 3-5 are closely matched. The same holds true for Nos. 7-10.
Here they are ...
1. Michigan State: The Spartans' defense looks like the single best unit in the Big Ten entering the season. Spring practice only enhanced our opinion of Pat Narduzzi's group, which has no shortage of stars. While the passing game needs work, Arnett's presence should help, and the Spartans will rely more on their run game with Le'Veon Bell and an improved offensive line.
2. Michigan: Quarterback Denard Robinson and Fitzgerald Toussaint, who affirmed himself as Michigan's top tailback this spring, form arguably the Big Ten's most dangerous backfield tandem. If Michigan can fill some key pieces on both lines, where there was some shuffling this spring, it will be back in the BCS bowl mix and among the favorites to win the Big Ten crown.
3. Wisconsin: It seems hard to fathom, but Montee Ball appeared to take his game to an even higher gear this spring. The Badgers' star running back will fuel the offense again, although quarterback remains a question mark as Maryland transfer Danny O'Brien arrives this summer. Wisconsin still needs more playmakers to emerge on the defensive line and in the secondary.
4. Nebraska: Tough call on this spot, but the Huskers return their core pieces on offense from a 9-4 team. Footwork-conscious quarterback Taylor Martinez received good reviews this spring, and he should be more comfortable in Year 2 at the helm of Tim Beck's offense. Coach Bo Pelini thinks the defense will be improved and potentially deeper, although the Huskers lose a lot of star power on that side of the ball.
5. Ohio State: There were few dull moments in Ohio State's first spring under Urban Meyer, who began installing an offense unlike any seen in Columbus. After resembling a "clown show" early on, the offense made strides and quarterback Braxton Miller looks like a strong fit for the system. An improved defense, led by linemen John Simon and Johnathan Hankins, should buy the offense some time to get acclimated.
6. Penn State: New coach Bill O'Brien ushered in a historic spring in Happy Valley, and Penn State players for the most part embraced the many changes taking place. The Lions still don't have a quarterback, but they have an excellent running back in Silas Redd and an improved offense line that pleasantly surprised O'Brien this spring. Penn State's defensive front seven, led by linebacker Gerald Hodges and tackle Jordan Hill, might need to carry the team at times.
7. Purdue: Fourth-year coach Danny Hope thinks this is clearly his best team in West Lafayette, and with 18 starters back, it's easy to see why. The Boilermakers are one of the Big Ten's deepest teams at positions like quarterback, defensive tackle, running back and cornerback. Purdue must continue to absorb the new defense installed by Tim Tibesar and fill some key gaps along the offensive line.
8. Iowa: Although Iowa's changes this spring didn't make national headlines like the ones at Penn State and Ohio State, they were very significant. New offensive coordinator Greg Davis began installing a more up-tempo and multifaceted offense that seems to be clicking with senior quarterback James Vandenberg. Jordan Canzeri's ACL injury once again clouds the picture at running back entering the summer, and Iowa needs its young defensive line to grow up in a hurry.
9. Northwestern: The Wildcats showcased one of the league's top wide-receiving corps this spring, and if Kain Colter can improve his passing, the offense should surge. Defense has been Northwestern's bugaboo in recent years, and young players like end Deonte Gibson and cornerback Nick VanHoose stepped forward this spring. It's crucial for the defense to keep making progress if Northwestern wants to maintain its bowl streak.
10. Illinois: There's little doubt Illinois will be a defense-driven team, and the Illini look loaded in the front seven with players like end Michael Buchanan, who turned in a very strong spring, as well as tackle Akeem Spence and linebacker Jonathan Brown. An offense that flatlined late last season began learning a new system this spring and still lacks playmakers at running back and wide receiver. Running back Josh Ferguson's spring-game performance is encouraging.
11. Minnesota: The second spring of the Jerry Kill era brought greater comfort for both players and coaches alike. Quarterback MarQueis Gray made strides in his second spring session as the starter, although the Gophers are still looking for more weapons to surround No. 5. The defensive line should be an improved group after several lifeless seasons. Minnesota still needs to develop depth in the secondary and at wide receiver.
12. Indiana: After playing an insane number of freshmen in 2011, Indiana began to reap the benefits this spring. An influx of junior-college defenders, including linebackers David Cooper and Jacarri Alexander, also should boost a unit that needs all the help it can get. The Hoosiers have some nice building blocks on offense at both quarterback (Tre Roberson) and running back (Stephen Houston, Isaiah Roundtree), but they still have a lot of work to do before the season.
It's time to revive the power rankings coming out of the spring. We see separation with the top two teams, while Nos. 3-5 are closely matched. The same holds true for Nos. 7-10.
Here they are ...
1. Michigan State: The Spartans' defense looks like the single best unit in the Big Ten entering the season. Spring practice only enhanced our opinion of Pat Narduzzi's group, which has no shortage of stars. While the passing game needs work, Arnett's presence should help, and the Spartans will rely more on their run game with Le'Veon Bell and an improved offensive line.
2. Michigan: Quarterback Denard Robinson and Fitzgerald Toussaint, who affirmed himself as Michigan's top tailback this spring, form arguably the Big Ten's most dangerous backfield tandem. If Michigan can fill some key pieces on both lines, where there was some shuffling this spring, it will be back in the BCS bowl mix and among the favorites to win the Big Ten crown.
3. Wisconsin: It seems hard to fathom, but Montee Ball appeared to take his game to an even higher gear this spring. The Badgers' star running back will fuel the offense again, although quarterback remains a question mark as Maryland transfer Danny O'Brien arrives this summer. Wisconsin still needs more playmakers to emerge on the defensive line and in the secondary.
4. Nebraska: Tough call on this spot, but the Huskers return their core pieces on offense from a 9-4 team. Footwork-conscious quarterback Taylor Martinez received good reviews this spring, and he should be more comfortable in Year 2 at the helm of Tim Beck's offense. Coach Bo Pelini thinks the defense will be improved and potentially deeper, although the Huskers lose a lot of star power on that side of the ball.
5. Ohio State: There were few dull moments in Ohio State's first spring under Urban Meyer, who began installing an offense unlike any seen in Columbus. After resembling a "clown show" early on, the offense made strides and quarterback Braxton Miller looks like a strong fit for the system. An improved defense, led by linemen John Simon and Johnathan Hankins, should buy the offense some time to get acclimated.
6. Penn State: New coach Bill O'Brien ushered in a historic spring in Happy Valley, and Penn State players for the most part embraced the many changes taking place. The Lions still don't have a quarterback, but they have an excellent running back in Silas Redd and an improved offense line that pleasantly surprised O'Brien this spring. Penn State's defensive front seven, led by linebacker Gerald Hodges and tackle Jordan Hill, might need to carry the team at times.
7. Purdue: Fourth-year coach Danny Hope thinks this is clearly his best team in West Lafayette, and with 18 starters back, it's easy to see why. The Boilermakers are one of the Big Ten's deepest teams at positions like quarterback, defensive tackle, running back and cornerback. Purdue must continue to absorb the new defense installed by Tim Tibesar and fill some key gaps along the offensive line.
8. Iowa: Although Iowa's changes this spring didn't make national headlines like the ones at Penn State and Ohio State, they were very significant. New offensive coordinator Greg Davis began installing a more up-tempo and multifaceted offense that seems to be clicking with senior quarterback James Vandenberg. Jordan Canzeri's ACL injury once again clouds the picture at running back entering the summer, and Iowa needs its young defensive line to grow up in a hurry.
9. Northwestern: The Wildcats showcased one of the league's top wide-receiving corps this spring, and if Kain Colter can improve his passing, the offense should surge. Defense has been Northwestern's bugaboo in recent years, and young players like end Deonte Gibson and cornerback Nick VanHoose stepped forward this spring. It's crucial for the defense to keep making progress if Northwestern wants to maintain its bowl streak.
10. Illinois: There's little doubt Illinois will be a defense-driven team, and the Illini look loaded in the front seven with players like end Michael Buchanan, who turned in a very strong spring, as well as tackle Akeem Spence and linebacker Jonathan Brown. An offense that flatlined late last season began learning a new system this spring and still lacks playmakers at running back and wide receiver. Running back Josh Ferguson's spring-game performance is encouraging.
11. Minnesota: The second spring of the Jerry Kill era brought greater comfort for both players and coaches alike. Quarterback MarQueis Gray made strides in his second spring session as the starter, although the Gophers are still looking for more weapons to surround No. 5. The defensive line should be an improved group after several lifeless seasons. Minnesota still needs to develop depth in the secondary and at wide receiver.
12. Indiana: After playing an insane number of freshmen in 2011, Indiana began to reap the benefits this spring. An influx of junior-college defenders, including linebackers David Cooper and Jacarri Alexander, also should boost a unit that needs all the help it can get. The Hoosiers have some nice building blocks on offense at both quarterback (Tre Roberson) and running back (Stephen Houston, Isaiah Roundtree), but they still have a lot of work to do before the season.
It's better to carry a tune than a grudge.
- Michigan AD Dave Brandon doesn't view a four-team model as a true playoff. The Wolverines could be sporting more alternate unis in the near future.
- Urban Meyer releases Ohio State's depth chart and doesn't hide his concerns about his personnel. Meyer shares his thoughts on the playoff possibilities. Meyer's intensity will fuel the Buckeyes in 2012.
- Iowa's Kinnick Stadium once again will be reseated in 2014.
- The Big Ten can no longer make the weather argument after backing off on campus sites for the playoff.
- Penn State coach Bill O'Brien continues to reach out to fans in the Mid-Atlantic region. Lions fans who know Glenn Carson, the linebacker should check out Glenn Carson, the wrestler.
- Tight end recruit Greg Hart picks Nebraska over Northwestern.
- Big Ten ADs say the kickoff play needs to be closely watched -- and possibly eliminated entirely.
- Athletic directors from Illinois and Northwestern discuss a potential rematch in Chicago.
- Some good notes from Steve Greenberg on the Big Ten spring meetings.
- Illinois coach Tim Beckman continues his caravan through the state.
- There's strong support for an increase of the bowl-eligibility requirement, even from ADs of schools that recently went to bowls at 6-6.
- Big Ten athletic directors advocate for the importance of schedule strength.
- Maize 'n Brew previews Minnesota in 2012.
- Former Michigan recruit Demar Dorsey will continue his football career at Hawaii, Bruce Feldman reports.
- Former Michigan State star Andre Rison will discuss his financial troubles in an ESPN documentary.
- The Daily Northwestern ranks the Big Ten offensive lines.
Spring practice is a time when coaches install new schemes or just instill the fundamentals. The most exciting part of spring practice is potential new stars emerge, with newcomers or former reserves turning heads with their performances.
Some of these guys will fade back into the shadows come fall. But others will be making major contributions on a field near you. Here's a list of some players who had breakout springs:
Josh Ferguson, RB, Illinois: Redshirted last year after a hamstring injury, Ferguson blew up for 130 yards and caught six passes in the Illini spring game. He flashed his speed and versatility for an offense that desperately needs playmakers in its new spread attack. Ferguson should be in line to get a lot of touches in 2012.
Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State: A true freshman who enrolled in January after spending a year in prep school, Thomas suddenly became Braxton Miller's favorite target in the spring game, hauling in 12 catches for 131 yards. Like Ferguson, he gave a glimmer of hope to a position that was sorely in need of a boost for the Buckeyes, and he'll get a shot at plenty of playing time right away.
Darien Harris, LB, Michigan State: Few people were talking about Harris at the start of spring, especially since the Spartans return all three starting linebackers. But with Chris Norman out this spring with an injury, Harris got a bunch of reps and ran with it. Mark Dantonio called the redshirt freshman "one of the exciting surprises of the spring." He'll play this fall, but the question is how much?
Joey Burzinski, OL, Michigan: Even most Wolverines fans had probably not heard of Buzinski, a walk-on freshman, before this spring. But a strong work ethic and a lack of depth on the Michigan O-line helped him make a move until he found himself working with the first string. Burzinski is no lock to start but should see minutes somewhere on the line and is a great story.
Bill Belton, RB, Penn State: Belton was a highly-regard recruit who started to make an impact at the end of last season. Moved to full-time running back this spring, he responded by making a lot of plays and adding depth to a spot that was extremely thin behind Silas Redd. Belton's versatility should help him become a useful weapon in Bill O'Brien's offense.
David Cooper, LB, Indiana: There's no question that the Hoosiers desperately needed some help on defense, and head coach Kevin Wilson scoured the junior college ranks for a talent injection. Cooper, along with Jacarri Alexander, proved he could run and tackle this spring, and he also brought a high energy level that rubbed off on his teammates. He's slated to start at middle linebacker and hopefully bring some improvement to the overall defensive effort.
C.J. Fiedorowicz, TE, Iowa: He was a hyped recruit, and now Fiedorowicz might be about to show why. A matchup nightmare at 6-foot-7 and 265 pounds, the junior is expected to play a major role in new offensive coordinator Greg Davis's offense, and James Vandenberg has to love having such a big target.
Frankie Williams, S, Purdue: By the end of last season, Danny Hope regretted his decision to redshirt Williams because he felt he could have contributed at cornerback. Williams moved to safety this spring and got the start there in the spring game. The Boilers are deep at corner but could use a little help at safety, and Williams looks ready to fill that need.
Some of these guys will fade back into the shadows come fall. But others will be making major contributions on a field near you. Here's a list of some players who had breakout springs:
Josh Ferguson, RB, Illinois: Redshirted last year after a hamstring injury, Ferguson blew up for 130 yards and caught six passes in the Illini spring game. He flashed his speed and versatility for an offense that desperately needs playmakers in its new spread attack. Ferguson should be in line to get a lot of touches in 2012.
Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State: A true freshman who enrolled in January after spending a year in prep school, Thomas suddenly became Braxton Miller's favorite target in the spring game, hauling in 12 catches for 131 yards. Like Ferguson, he gave a glimmer of hope to a position that was sorely in need of a boost for the Buckeyes, and he'll get a shot at plenty of playing time right away.
Darien Harris, LB, Michigan State: Few people were talking about Harris at the start of spring, especially since the Spartans return all three starting linebackers. But with Chris Norman out this spring with an injury, Harris got a bunch of reps and ran with it. Mark Dantonio called the redshirt freshman "one of the exciting surprises of the spring." He'll play this fall, but the question is how much?
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Keith SrakocicBill Belton had a nice performance during Penn State's Blue-White spring game, rushing for 53 yards and a TD.
AP Photo/Keith SrakocicBill Belton had a nice performance during Penn State's Blue-White spring game, rushing for 53 yards and a TD.Bill Belton, RB, Penn State: Belton was a highly-regard recruit who started to make an impact at the end of last season. Moved to full-time running back this spring, he responded by making a lot of plays and adding depth to a spot that was extremely thin behind Silas Redd. Belton's versatility should help him become a useful weapon in Bill O'Brien's offense.
David Cooper, LB, Indiana: There's no question that the Hoosiers desperately needed some help on defense, and head coach Kevin Wilson scoured the junior college ranks for a talent injection. Cooper, along with Jacarri Alexander, proved he could run and tackle this spring, and he also brought a high energy level that rubbed off on his teammates. He's slated to start at middle linebacker and hopefully bring some improvement to the overall defensive effort.
C.J. Fiedorowicz, TE, Iowa: He was a hyped recruit, and now Fiedorowicz might be about to show why. A matchup nightmare at 6-foot-7 and 265 pounds, the junior is expected to play a major role in new offensive coordinator Greg Davis's offense, and James Vandenberg has to love having such a big target.
Frankie Williams, S, Purdue: By the end of last season, Danny Hope regretted his decision to redshirt Williams because he felt he could have contributed at cornerback. Williams moved to safety this spring and got the start there in the spring game. The Boilers are deep at corner but could use a little help at safety, and Williams looks ready to fill that need.
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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