The first Happy Flight of 2012 is in the books. Here's hoping for many more.
- A pair of Illinois defensive backs could spend some time on offense this season as Tim Beckman searches for playmakers.
- Scrutiny or not, Brian Ferentz was the right hire for Iowa, Pat Harty writes. Everyone's in play for the Hawkeyes at running back.
- Dion Sims has a chance to shine at tight end for Michigan State, provided his wrist is fully healed. DeAnthony Arnett is playing a waiting game right now.
- MarQueis Gray says the next Minnesota athletic director needs to be accessible to players.
- Once a blue-chip recruit, Nebraska's Baker Steinkuhler has been a solid player, but not a superstar. He's not satisfied with that going into his final season. Will Compton played well down the stretch last season, and is drawing praise from Bo Pelini this spring.
- Jibreel Black is taking on a new role by moving inside on the Michigan defensive line.
- Defense is winning at practice as Ohio State's offense continues to learn a new system. John Simon and Zach Boren will likely serve as captains for the Buckeyes.
- Peter Konz showed off a little more strength at Wisconsin's pro day, and likely solidified his draft stock.
- Cornerback Lawrence Barnett brings some consistency to the Indiana defense.
- Danny Hope wished he hadn't redshirted Frankie Williams last season, but the defensive back is glad he waited.
- Receiver Tony Jones is back at full throttle for Northwestern.
- The learning curve is pretty steep this spring for the Penn State tight ends.
Brian Bennett | email
College Football- ESPN.com Big Ten blogger
- Joined ESPN.com in 2008
- Wrote for The Courier-Journal
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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