ESPN College Football

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Minnesota linebacker Gary Tinsley was cited by university police for underage drinking and fleeing police following an alleged fight early Sunday morning.

Police responded to reports of a fight near the Minnesota campus that allegedly involved Gophers football players and a player from Augsburg College.

No arrests were made for assault, but police saw Tinsley "swinging a wooden board amid a crowd of people." He ran from the scene and was caught nearby, though no one identified him in connection with the assault.

According to the police report, officers arrived at the house after receiving a call about a fight involving 15 to 20 men. Police were responding to a 911 caller who reported that several members of the Gophers football team were en route to the house in the 700 block of 15th Avenue SE to assault him. Upon arrival, according to the report, police found that a member of the Augsburg College football team had been assaulted.

Athletic director Joel Maturi told local media outlets that the school will look into the incident. Gophers head coach Tim Brewster said Tinsley, a reserve sophomore who hasn't played this year, won't face a suspension.

"There will definitely be some action taken, I can assure you of that," Maturi told the Star Tribune. "What that action is remains to be seen."

Maturi added that the incident Sunday morning was not related to the two-game suspensions handed out to Gophers defenders Cedric McKinley and Tim Dandridge earlier this week.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

This just in from Minnesota's sports information department:

Minnesota head football coach Tim Brewster has announced that senior defensive end Cedric McKinley and sophomore defensive back Tim Dandridge have each been suspended for the Gophers’ next two games due to a violation of team rules and policies.

The student-athletes will not play in this week’s game with Wisconsin or next week’s game with Purdue.

McKinley has started the Gophers' first four games, recording 11 tackles (3 for loss), a sack, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. The team now will turn to D.L. Wilhite, Ray Henderson and others to fill the void against the Badgers and Boilermakers.

As one of the most physically imposing defensive ends in the Big Ten, McKinley could be a big loss for Minnesota against two good rushing teams.

Dandridge has one tackle in four games after appearing in every contest last fall as a reserve safety.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

The sixth installment in a series examining the best and worst outcomes, within reason, for each Big Ten squad.

BEST CASE

The run game resurfaces, the defense plays takeaway and Minnesota restores its tradition in a new on-campus stadium.

Despite a change in offensive philosophy, Minnesota revives its run game and balances things out by attacking defenses with a deep and talented wide receiving corps, led by Eric Decker and Hayo Carpenter. Junior quarterback Adam Weber stays healthy, limits interceptions and operates the new scheme flawlessly with help from backup MarQueis Gray. The defense continues to pile up takeaways, replaces its lost pass-rushing production and does a better job of finishing games. Return specialist Troy Stoudermire sizzles and Minnesota replaces its starting kicker and punter.

Minnesota never wants to see the Metrodome again, but the team looks at ease in the Carrier Dome for its opener against Syracuse. Cedric McKinley makes Greg Paulus wish he'd stuck to hoops by sacking the Orange quarterback four times. The Gophers roll 41-10 and return home to open TCF Bank Stadium. Freshman linebacker Sam Maresh, who returned to football following open heart surgery last summer, leads the team onto the field as a deafening roar greets the players. Despite the emotions of the stadium opener and a tricky opponent (Air Force), Minnesota keeps its composure and improves to 2-0.

Heisman Trophy candidate Jahvid Best leads Cal into the Twin Cities on Sept. 19, but Minnesota running backs Duane Bennett, DeLeon Eskridge and Kevin Whaley end up stealing the show, piling up 285 rush yards against the Bears. Best turns in a typical performance, but the Gophers catch Cal's defense napping and win a shootout, 41-38. Entering the Top 25 for the first time, Minnesota visits Northwestern, a team that has dealt it back-to-back heartwrenching losses. This time, Minnesota prevails in dramatic fashion, as a Decker touchdown pass from Weber wins the game in overtime.

Minnesota reclaims Paul Bunyan's Axe the next week, as safety Kim Royston, a transfer from Wisconsin, knocks the 'W' decal off John Clay's helmet on a big hit. The Gophers improve to 6-0 with a homecoming blowout of Purdue before stumbling on the road against Penn State and Ohio State.

Heading into the home stretch, Minnesota splits against Michigan State and Illinois but crushes South Dakota State to improve to 8-3. The Gophers then head to Iowa City and avenge a 55-0 loss as Decker has a big day at Kinnick Stadium. The loss drops Iowa to 6-6.

At 9-3 and ranked in the Top 25, Minnesota moves on to the Outback Bowl, builds a huge lead against Georgia and doesn't blow it for its first Jan. 1 bowl victory since 1962. Decker wins the Biletnikoff Award, cornerback Traye Simmons is a finalist for the Thorpe Award and head coach Tim Brewster receives a lengthy contract extension.

WORST CASE

The offense stalls, the defense struggles, the stadium buzz vanishes and Minnesota endures another irrelevant season.

Despite returning more experience than any Big Ten team, Minnesota struggles with the scheme changes and the bad habits that hurt the team last season resurfaces. Jedd Fisch's pro-style system doesn't click with the offensive linemen, who struggle to create room for the running backs or buy enough time for Weber to attack downfield. The defense records its share of takeaways, but it struggles to contain the pass and doesn't generate much pressure up front without defensive end Willie VanDeSteeg.

Minnesota starts the season in the wrong place -- a domed stadium -- and suffers a mental meltdown against an inferior Syracuse team. The buzz around head coach Doug Marrone's first game and Paulus' first start at quarterback spurs the Orange, while the Gophers repeatedly hurt themselves with mistakes. Paulus throws for three touchdowns and runs in the game-winning score, dunking the ball over the goalpost to secure a 30-24 victory. The Gophers look a bit rattled the next week amid the hoopla over TCF Bank Stadium, but they survive against Air Force.

Reality returns as Best runs wild against the Minnesota defense and Cal rolls to a 48-14 victory. A week later, Northwestern hands Minnesota another brutal loss, this time by blocking a 25-yard field goal attempt as time expires to prevail 24-23. Wisconsin retains the axe as Clay and Zach Brown combine for 310 rush yards, dropping Minnesota to 1-4.

After beating Purdue, Minnesota suffers back-to-back blowouts against Penn State and Ohio State. Weber is under constant duress and has to leave the Ohio State game with an injury. Gray doesn't fare much better as the Buckeyes roll. The heat begins to rise on Brewster as the Gophers begin a three-game homestand. They find a way to go 2-1 but end the season on a down note against Iowa, which posts another shutout against its archrival.

The Gophers miss a bowl for the second time in two years under Brewster, who suddenly uses far fewer exclamation points in his tweets. Athletic director Joel Maturi decides to give Brewster one more year, but it's clear that a winning record must be posted. The team's recruiting takes a step back and Brewster does some more staff shuffling. Iowa wins the Big Ten and the Rose Bowl, and Wisconsin reaches a Jan. 1 bowl.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

The final seven Big Ten teams open preseason camp, including defending co-champs Penn State and Ohio State.

Here are three questions for the remaining seven squads during the next four weeks. If you missed Part I, check it out.

MICHIGAN

Camp opens: Monday

1. Will true freshman Tate Forcier create some early separation in the quarterback competition?

Forcier enters camp as the frontrunner after a solid spring, and he could further cement himself as the Wolverines' top quarterback in the coming weeks. He'll face some real competition now as junior Nick Sheridan returns from a broken leg and athletic freshman Denard Robinson joins the mix.

2. Who will step up alongside Brandon Graham on the defensive line?

Michigan brings back a potential All-American in Graham, who has 18.5 sacks the past two seasons. He'll need help up front, though, and the Wolverines need strong camps from Mike Martin, Ryan Van Bergen and William Campbell.

3. How many true freshmen see the field this fall?

The Wolverines will be much more experienced at several positions, but head coach Rich Rodriguez brought in a strong recruiting class, and several freshmen should contribute immediately. Along with Forcier, Robinson and Campbell, running back Vincent Smith impressed this spring and hopes are high for safety Vladimir Emilien. Defensive end Craig Roh also could be one to watch.

MICHIGAN STATE

Camp opens: Monday

1. Will we see any separation at quarterback before Sept. 5?

Head coach Mark Dantonio isn't planning on it and fully intends to play both Kirk Cousins and Keith Nichol during non-league play. The two signal-callers paced one another throughout spring ball, but there's a chance one man might be ready to take the job.

2. Can true freshmen Edwin Baker and Larry Caper emerge as the top running backs?

None of Michigan State's older players really took charge in the spring, though Caulton Ray's emergence is intriguing. Many expect Michigan State's heralded recruits to emerge as potential starters by the end of training camp.

3. How will the secondary look by the end of camp?

Dantonio has a very good problem in the secondary -- loads of experience. Eight returning players have starting experience, and that doesn't include safety Trenton Robinson, the story of the spring on defense. The competition in the back four should be fun to watch.

(Read full post)

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

They're baaaaack. Many of you who checked out colleague Heather Dinich's ACC position rankings asked when I'd be doing the same for the Big Ten. Well, Big Ten media days are done and we have a bit of a break before the first preseason practice begins Aug. 6 at Illinois. This seems like the perfect time to rank the positions heading into the season.

Defensive line is up first. There's only one elite group on paper, but no truly bad units, either. Really not much difference between Nos. 4-11.  

1. Ohio State -- The group has drawn comparisons to the 2002 line that helped Ohio State win a national title. Ohio State looks loaded at defensive end with Cameron Heyward, Thaddeus Gibson and Lawrence Wilson, a one-time starter who comes off of two major leg injuries. Gibson should have a big year after coming on strong late last fall. The tackles have been a bit iffy in recent years, but Doug Worthington boasts a ton of experience and should shore up the middle with Todd Denlinger, Dexter Larimore and Garrett Goebel.

2. Penn State -- Larry Johnson's body of work is simply too powerful to overlook, even though Penn State loses a lot from a group that led the Big Ten and ranked eighth nationally against the run (93.2 ypg). Jared Odrick is the Big Ten's most dominant interior defensive lineman, and he'll lead a group of promising young players. Hopes are extremely high for sophomore end Jack Crawford, and juniors Kevion Latham and Eric Latimore hold down the other end spot. Depth is a bit of a question, but Penn State should get a boost from a healthy Jerome Hayes. 

3. Iowa -- The Hawkeyes are another team dealing with major personnel losses as four-year starting tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul depart. But what Iowa loses inside, it makes up for on the edges with ends Adrian Clayborn and Christian Ballard. Clayborn recorded eight tackles for loss last year and should contend for All-Big Ten honors. It'll be interesting to see how Karl Klug and Mike Daniels adjust to playing more on the inside.

4. Northwestern -- A lot depends on Corey Wootton's durability after the senior defensive end tore his ACL in December. Wootton is probably the Big Ten's most versatile lineman, applying pressure to quarterbacks and also clogging pass lanes with his 6-foot-7 frame. Sophomore Vince Browne is primed for a big season at the other end spot. Replacing standout tackle John Gill won't be easy, but the Wildcats have veterans in Corbin Bryant, Marshall Thomas and Adam Hahn.

5. Wisconsin -- I'm taking a bit of a chance here, seeing how the Badgers lose three multiyear starters up front. But the line dominated Wisconsin's offseason program and boasts several exciting pieces, including Central Michigan transfer J.J. Watt, who can play either end or tackle. O'Brien Schofield is a solid leader at defensive end, and young linemen Brendan Kelly and Louis Nzegwu should blossom.     

6. Illinois -- The Illini lose their top four sacks leaders from last year, but they should be much better against the run, an area that really hurt the defense in 2008. With Josh Brent back in the fold, Illinois boasts arguably more depth at defensive tackle than any Big Ten team. Corey Liguet showed a lot of potential as a true freshman, and senior Sirod Williams returns from a torn ACL.  There are some questions at end aside from Doug Pilcher.

7. Michigan -- Senior end Brandon Graham should be the Big Ten's most dominant pass-rusher this fall, and if he gets some help from his teammates, he'll be even better. Michigan is very young elsewhere on the line but boasts a good deal of talent. Sophomores Ryan Van Bergen and Mike Martin showed promising signs in the spring, and it'll be interesting to see how much true freshman William Campbell gets on the field. 

8. Michigan State -- This is the only area of Michigan State's defense that doesn't wow me, but senior end Trevor Anderson leads a decent group. Anderson should build off of a nice junior season (8 sacks, 10.5 TFLs), but the Spartans need a second pass-rusher to emerge. Brandon Long and Justin Kershaw will be missed, and it'll be up to Colin Neely, Oren Wilson and others to fill the void. 

9. Minnesota -- The Gophers tied for the league lead in sacks last fall (34) but lose standout end Willie VanDeSteeg, who accounted for 10.5 of those sacks. Minnesota's strength is inside with senior tackles Garrett Brown and Eric Small. If Cedric McKinley or someone else develops into a reliable pass-rusher, Minnesota should finish the year higher on the list.

10. Purdue -- It wouldn't surprise me one bit if Purdue finished the year much higher on the list, but there are quite a few questions entering the fall. The Boilers know what they have in end Ryan Kerrigan and tackle Mike Neal, but the other two spots are mysteries. There are high hopes for Kawann Short and Gerald Gooden, but I need to see more evidence in games before bumping up the Boilers.     

11. Indiana -- We all know the Hoosiers can rush the passer with standout ends Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton. But can Indiana stop the run? There are some major question marks at defensive tackle entering preseason camp, and Bill Lynch needs a bona fide run-stopper to emerge. Junior tackle Deonte Mack needs to step up after missing spring ball with a hip injury.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

For the last decade or so, Minnesota has had the luxury of being able to pile up early wins and still reach bowl games despite late-season slides.

Since 1998, the Gophers own a 46-29 record in games played before Oct. 20. Soft nonconference schedules certainly helped, and Minnesota typically started well in Big Ten play.

After Oct. 20, the picture isn't so pretty. Minnesota has gone 23-36 in games played on Oct. 20 or later during the same time span. The trend certainly continued last season, as Minnesota started 7-1 before dropping its final five games.

Given the way the schedule is changing, the Gophers need to put a stop to this pattern right now.

The era of cupcake scheduling appears to be over at Minnesota, thanks to head coach Tim Brewster and athletic director Joel Maturi. Minnesota faces California and Air Force this season, USC in 2010 and 2011 and most likely Texas somewhere in the distant future.

"This year's schedule is unbelievably attractive," Maturi said last month at the Big Ten spring meetings. "And then we play Southern Cal. It's been very well received. Now if we go get our butts kicked, I don't know how well it would be received. But I do believe it's what we aspire to be. It helps our recruiting and hopefully, we'll rise to the occasion and play competitive football."

The good news is Minnesota has the type of team that should improve rather than regress during the course of the 2009 season.

There's a ton of talent on offense, particularly at wide receiver and quarterback. The running back position should also be better with the return of Duane Bennett. But there also is a significant scheme change under new coordinator Jedd Fisch. The offensive line will need time to settle in, and that's why Minnesota could have some trouble against Air Force, Cal and Northwestern.

The defense also has a new coordinator in Kevin Cosgrove, its third in as many years. Minnesota boasts playmakers in the secondary (Traye Simmons, Marcus Sherels) and good experience up front (Garrett Brown, Eric Small, Cedric McKinley), but an adjustment period is also expected here.

Minnesota's season will hinge on its ability to adjust -- to schemes, to coaches, to new personnel groups and most importantly, to the ebb and flow of the season. A slow start is possible, and if so, the Gophers must show greater mental toughness than they have in past seasons. Their conference road schedule is brutal -- Penn State, Ohio State, Iowa and Northwestern -- but there are opportunities to do damage at home.

Finishing strong will be paramount for a program that hasn't done so much in recent years. If Minnesota wants to take the next step, it needs to be playing its best football in November.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Spring practice is often the most competitive time of the year for a football team, and players on both sides of the ball take full advantage.

Here's a snapshot of who emerged for each Big Ten team, from what I've seen, heard and read.

ILLINOIS

Offense
Mikel LeShoure RB, So. -- After getting his weight right, LeShoure looks like the total package at running back. He'll complement fellow sophomore Jason Ford this fall.

Defense
Tavon Wilson, CB, Sr. -- Vontae Davis' protégé appears ready to take over as the team's top cover corner. Like Davis, Wilson welcomes contact and has improved his tackling.

INDIANA

Offense
Darius Willis RB, Fr. -- Heralded recruit looked the part this spring after battling groin, shoulder and back injuries last fall. Willis rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown on only 13 carries in the spring game.

Defense
Larry Black Jr., DE, Fr. -- Defensive tackle is a major question mark, but Black made a strong push for a starting job and finished with two sacks in the spring game.

IOWA

Offense
Marvin McNutt, WR, So. -- Converted quarterback with excellent physical tools wowed the coaches this spring and moved to the top of the depth chart.

Defense
Adrian Clayborn, DE, Jr. -- Clayborn is a known commodity, but he elevated his play as a pass-rusher and a leader on Iowa's defensive line.

MICHIGAN

Offense
Vincent Smith RB, Fr. -- The bite-size Smith (5-foot-6, 158) stood out in a crowded offensive backfield, showcasing tremendous speed and agility.

Defense
Stevie Brown, S/LB, Sr. -- The hybrid role in coordinator Greg Robinson's defense suits Brown, who won the Meyer Morton Award as the senior who made the most progress during spring drills.

MICHIGAN STATE

Offense
Brian Linthicum, TE, So. -- Clemson transfer worked himself into a crowded mix at tight end and should log plenty of field time this fall. He had six catches for 69 yards and a touchdown in the spring game.

Defense
Trenton Robinson, S, So. -- Head coach Mark Dantonio could not stop raving about Robinson, who provides even more depth in a stacked Spartans secondary.

MINNESOTA

Offense
MarQueis Gray, QB, Fr. -- With starter Adam Weber held out of contact this spring, Gray took a ton of snaps and capitalized, cementing himself as a 1a option for Minnesota. Expect the Gophers to incorporate a package of plays for Gray into every game plan.

Defense
Cedric McKinley, DE, Sr. -- McKinley built on a strong Insight Bowl performance and looks ready to take over for Willie VanDeSteeg as Minnesota's primary pass-rusher. He recorded three sacks in the spring game.

NORTHWESTERN

Offense
Jeravin Matthews, RB, So. -- The speedy Matthews made a smooth transition from wide receiver to running back and provides another option in a new-look backfield this fall.

Defense
Ben Johnson, LB, So. -- Johnson cemented himself as Northwestern's third starting linebacker, impressing head coach Pat Fitzgerald with his speed and instincts. He broke up two passes in the spring game.

OHIO STATE

Offense
Brandon Saine, RB, Jr. -- The wait for big things from Saine might be over as the gifted junior stayed healthy this spring. He showcased excellent moves and wasn't afraid to take on tacklers and get right back up.

Defense
Devon Torrence, CB, Jr. -- A physical corner with good athleticism, Torrence will continue to push Andre Amos for a starting spot this summer. The big question is whether he wants to continue playing baseball in the Houston Astros organization.

PENN STATE

Offense
Derek Moye, WR, So. -- Moye has all the tools to be a top receiver in the Big Ten, and he seemed to seize the opportunity this spring as Penn State rebuilds at receiver.

Defense
Jack Crawford, DE, So. -- The Larry Johnson factory might have churned out another superstar pass-rusher as Crawford turned in a very impressive spring. He's still a little raw but has the skills to do major damage.

PURDUE

Offense
Ralph Bolden, RB, So. -- Few players in the country had as good a spring as Bolden, who came out of nowhere to record 420 rushing yards and four touchdowns in scrimmages. He might be the frontrunner for the starting running back job entering the fall.

Defense
Kawann Short, DT, Fr. -- Short made a strong push for a starting spot alongside Mike Neal on a solid Boilers defensive line. He can draw double teams and boasts impressive strength to generate push off the line.

WISCONSIN

Offense
Nick Toon, WR, So. -- Wide receiver was a major question mark entering spring ball, and Toon made the most of his opportunity with an excellent performance. He boasts excellent size, speed and hands, and should enter the summer as a starter.

Defense
J.J. Watt, DE, So. -- The Central Michigan transfer transformed his body during the offseason and saw dividends this spring, as he claimed a starting spot on the defensive line. Watt can play both end and tackle.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Minnesota Golden Gophers 2008 overall record: 7-6 2008 conference record: 3-5 Returning starters Offense: 10; Defense: 8; Special teams: 0 Top returners QB Adam Weber, WR Eric Decker, WR Ben Kuznia, DT Garrett Brown, LB Simoni Lawrence, CB Traye Simmons, CB Marcus Sherels, LB Lee Campbell Key losses TE Jack Simmons, DE Willie VanDeSteeg, LB Deon Hightower, P Justin Kucek 2008 statistical leaders (* returners) Rushing: DeLeon Eskridge* (678 yds) Passing: Adam Weber* (2,761 yds) Receiving: Eric Decker* (1,074 yds) Tackles: Lee Campbell* (80) Sacks: Willie VanDeSteeg (10.5) Interceptions: Traye Simmons* (4) 2009 Schedule Sept. 5 at Syracuse Sept. 12 Air Force Sept. 19 California Sept. 26 at Northwestern Oct. 3 Wisconsin Oct. 10 Purdue Oct. 17 at Penn State Oct. 24 at Ohio State Oct. 31 Michigan State Nov. 7 Illinois Nov. 14 South Dakota State Nov. 21 at Iowa Spring answers 1. Gray day -- Heralded recruit MarQueis Gray finally got on the practice field for the Gophers this spring, and he lived up to the hype. Gray won't take the starting quarterback job away from junior Adam Weber, but he'll definitely be a part of the offense this fall. Minnesota likely will have some special packages for Gray, who completed 8 of 10 passes for 141 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game. 2. Defensive depth -- Minnesota loses only three starters from an improved defense, and new coordinator Kevin Cosgrove should have plenty of options this fall. Cedric McKinley appears ready to step into a primary pass-rushing role with Willie VanDeSteeg departing, and the defensive tackle spot will be a strength with co-captains Eric Small and Garrett Brown. Wisconsin transfer Kim Royston should see time at safety after a strong spring. 3. Troy's time -- After showing impressive speed on kickoff returns last fall, sophomore Troy Stoudermire will be asked to do much more for the Gophers in 2009. Stoudermire saw time as a wide receiver this spring and accounted for 274 all-purpose yards and a touchdown in the spring game. Head coach Tim Brewster is looking for playmakers, and Stoudermire fits the description. Fall questions 1. Running back -- The Gophers will emphasize the power run in their new-look offense, but who carries the ball remains to be seen. Projected starter Duane Bennett was held out of contact this spring and both DeLeon Eskridge and Shady Salamon missed time with injuries. Redshirt freshman Kevin Whaley showed some promise in the spring game with 63 rush yards and a touchdown, but the position remains a bit of a mystery. 2. Offensive line -- Not surprisingly, the offensive line endured some growing pains this spring as it adjusted to the new scheme being implemented by line coach Tim Davis and offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch. The Gophers return four starters up front, but several players have been moved around and two new tackles (Matt Stommes and Jeff Wills) likely will start the season. 3. Maresh musings -- Everyone in Minnesota is pulling for freshman linebacker Sam Maresh, who practiced this spring less than nine months after undergoing open-heart surgery. Maresh played a decent amount in the spring game and showed some potential. If he can avoid any further setbacks, he could be in the mix at linebacker this season.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

No matter what happened this spring, Minnesota knew it would enter the fall with a proven quarterback in Adam Weber and a dynamic wide receiver in Eric Decker. But with Decker playing baseball this spring and Weber limited following shoulder surgery, there were opportunities for those behind them to step up.

That's exactly what backup quarterback MarQueis Gray, wideout Brodrick Smith and do-it-all sophomore Troy Stoudermire did in Saturday's spring game at the University of St. Thomas. Minnesota began its migration to outdoor football with the spring game, in which the offense racked up 34 points.

Any questions that Gray will see the field this fall were put to rest after the freshman completed 8 of 10 passes for 141 yards and two touchdowns. Smith caught both scoring strikes from Gray and had a game-high four receptions for 98 yards.

"I think this will help MarQueis really become a great player," head coach Tim Brewster told reporters. "We will have packages every game where he is involved."

The Gophers also will find more ways to get Stoudermire the ball. Listed as a cornerback, Stoudermire saw time in several spots during the spring game. He caught three passes for 31 yards, had two rushes for 63 yards and a touchdown and gained 180 yards on kickoff and punt returns.

It all added up to 274 all-purpose yards for Stoudermire, who was used mainly on returns last year. Despite a ton of changes on offense during the offseason, Minnesota could be more explosive in 2009. Weber also looked solid in the spring game, completing 9 of 12 passes for 77 yards.

Other items from Minnesota's spring game:

• The game didn't provide a comprehensive look at the Gophers' rushing attack, as both Duane Bennett (knee) and Shady Salamon (concussion) sat out. Redshirt freshman Kevin Whaley ran very well, racking up 63 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, and Stoudermire broke off two big runs, but the offensive line allowed six sacks. It will take some time for the line to totally click with the new offensive scheme, and the group will remain in the spotlight this summer.
  
• Minnesota might have identified its primary pass rusher in senior defensive end Cedric McKinley, who recorded three sacks and four tackles for loss in the game. The Gophers tied for the Big Ten lead in sacks last fall (34) but lose All-Big Ten end Willie VanDeSteeg.
  
• For the second straight year, Minnesota's defense should benefit from some new arrivals. Safety Kim Royston, a transfer from Wisconsin, recorded four tackles in the spring game. Sophomore safety Tim Dandridge had four tackles and two pass breakups.
  
• Minnesota loses both starting specialists from last year's squad, but kicker Eric Ellestad connected on field goals of 48 and 21 yards, while punter Blake Haudan averaged 40.6 yards per punt.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

These are coming in a bit late -- got tied up with Northwestern practice this morning -- but here's your daily look around the league. 

• Michigan's spring game will be more of an event this year, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press. Wolverines starting wideout Darryl Stonum was sentenced to a year of probation for impaired driving. 
• The term "freak" is being used about several of Wisconsin's young defensive linemen, including injured end Louis Nzegwu, Mike Lucas writes in The Capital Times. 
• Minnesota defensive end Cedric McKinley has one goal this season -- beat Willie, Kent Youngblood writes in the Star Tribune. 
• Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Heacock is excited about what he sees up front, Ken Gordon writes in the Columbus Dispatch.
  
• After some tumultuous times, Indiana safety Jerimy Finch, a transfer from Florida, is feeling comfortable at home again, Chris Korman writes in The Herald-Times (subscription required). 
• Freshmen linebackers Antwon Higgs and Dwayne Beckman are turning heads at Purdue this spring, Mike Carmin writes in The Journal and Courier. 

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Today's position superlatives finish with the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Check out the blog next week for the final four teams: Illinois, Northwestern, Ohio State and Purdue.

Minnesota returns nine starters on offense, including the entire line, and could make major strides if the holdovers adjust to a new scheme and style. There are a few more questions on the defensive side, particularly up front. But overall, Minnesota doesn't have many glaring weaknesses heading into spring ball.

Strongest position -- Defensive back

Key returnees: Senior cornerback Traye Simmons, junior safety Kyle Theret, senior cornerback Marcus Sherels, senior safety Tramaine Brock (expected to rejoin team after leaving school due to academic reasons), junior cornerback Ryan Collado

Key losses: None

The skinny: As long as Brock comes back this summer -- head coach Tim Brewster expects him to return -- Minnesota will bring back every member of a playmaking secondary. The four starters combined for 10 interceptions, 48 pass deflections, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries last fall. Though the Gophers were exposed late in the season, the defensive backs, particularly Simmons, showed the ability to change games. A talented wide receiving corps led by Eric Decker almost got the nod here, and Minnesota should be decent at linebacker.

Weakest position -- Defensive end

Key returnees: Senior Derrick Onwuachi, senior Cedric McKinley

Key departures: Willie VanDeSteeg (53 tackles, 19 TFLs, 10.5 sacks)

The skinny: VanDeSteeg was Minnesota's pass rush at times last fall, winning a game at Illinois almost single-handedly in the fourth quarter. He'll definitely be missed, and Minnesota needs to identify a standout end to complement two solid tackles in seniors Eric Small and Garrett Brown. Minnesota tied for the league lead in sacks last fall (34), but VanDeSteeg was a major reason why. Other potential weaknesses include running back and offensive line.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

It's always fun at this time of year to look back at preseason thoughts and predictions. In August, I outlined 25 items I wanted to see during the Big Ten season. Several of them came true, others didn't and some materialized in different ways.

Here's a look back at the list to see what worked out and what didn't. 

	AP Photo/Carlos Osorio
	Terrelle Pryor earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors.

1. Terrelle Pryor lead an offensive drive -- He might be a Tim Tebow-like weapon near the goal line, but I'm more interested in how the Ohio State freshman quarterback handles a real offensive series. Pryor's athleticism is undeniable, but it will be important to monitor his passing accuracy and the way he leads older teammates.

The verdict: We had plenty of opportunities to see Pryor lead drives after he was named Ohio State's starter in Week 4. Despite a few growing pains, Pryor held his own and displayed remarkable athleticism in winning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. He also came up big in the clutch to lead Ohio State's game-winning touchdown drive Oct. 4 at Wisconsin. 

2. Michigan's quarterbacks -- Rich Rodriguez has ushered in a new era in Ann Arbor and will turn to unproven players like Steven Threet, Nick Sheridan and possibly Justin Feagin to lead his spread offense. There will undoubtedly be growing pains, but if one of those three takes control, the Wolverines will surge.

The verdict: Oh, there were growing pains. Big ones. Threet and Sheridan struggled to fit into Rodriguez's system, and Michigan finished the season ranked 109th nationally in total offense. Feagin likely will move to slot receiver in 2009, and incoming freshmen Shavodrick Beaver and Tate Forcier will compete for the starting quarterback spot. 

3. Jump Around at night -- Camp Randall Stadium is intimidating enough during daylight hours, but the electricity will reach new levels this fall with back-to-back night games against Ohio State and Penn State. The Badgers haven't lost at home under coach Bret Bielema, and they should have a tremendous home-field edge this fall.

The verdict: It was pretty cool to see Ohio State players jump in lockstep with the Wisconsin students on Oct. 4, but Camp Randall certainly lost its edge this fall. Wisconsin saw its home win streak fade against Ohio State and then suffered its worst home defeat since 1989 the next week against Penn State. Plus, the Badgers band was suspended from performing Oct. 4 after allegations of hazing surfaced. 

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Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

No one would have blamed Tim Brewster or his players for turning their attention to Ohio State as soon as they left the Metrodome field Saturday afternoon.

The way the Gophers dominated Florida Atlantic, they could have started scheming for Terrelle Pryor and the possible return of Chris "Beanie" Wells early in the fourth quarter of a 37-3 romp.

	AP Photo/Paul Battaglia
	Marcus Sherels is part of a secondary that has racked up six interceptions and 23 pass deflections.

But Minnesota wasn't just another BCS team polishing off a fairly negotiable nonconference slate before getting its first major test in league play. In four weeks, the Gophers quadrupled their wins total from all of last season, Brewster's first as head coach.

The nation's worst defense in 2007 has become an opportunistic bunch of talented junior college transplants and holdovers who have upgraded their play. The offense has surged behind quarterback Adam Weber and Eric Decker, limiting mistakes and putting up points in Year 2 of the Spread Coast system.

For the Gophers to gloss over these accomplishments, regardless of the competition, would be a disservice to their fans and themselves.

"As coaches and players, we don't do a good enough job of savoring victory," Brewster said Monday. "We had a great victory over a really good football team on Saturday, and I wanted to make sure our players savored the victory."

So Minnesota celebrated Saturday before reconvening Sunday. Players went through their running and lifting. Then they studied the Florida Atlantic film and made corrections.

"Once we had all of that done," Brewster said, "we started talking about Ohio State."

The Gophers open Big Ten play on Saturday with a visit to the 14th-ranked Buckeyes. But before breaking down the matchup, here's a look at the reasons behind Minnesota's 4-0 start after a 1-11 clunker in 2007.

IMPROVED TURNOVER MARGIN

The Gophers were far too generous last season and ranked 114th nationally in average turnover margin (minus-1.25). This fall, Weber and the offense have safeguarded the football. More important, the defense is consistently taking it away.

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	AP Photo/Tony Ding
	Michigan's Rich Rodriguez is one of the new faces in the Big Ten.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

As the Big Ten season kicks off Saturday afternoon -- or morning, depending on the time zone -- here are 25 things I can't wait to see this fall.

1. Terrelle Pryor lead an offensive drive -- He might be a Tim Tebow-like weapon near the goal line, but I'm more interested in how the Ohio State freshman quarterback handles a real offensive series. Pryor's athleticism is undeniable, but it will be important to monitor his passing accuracy and the way he leads older teammates.

2. Michigan's quarterbacks -- Rich Rodriguez has ushered in a new era in Ann Arbor and will turn to unproven players like Steven Threet, Nick Sheridan and possibly Justin Feagin to lead his spread offense. There will undoubtedly be growing pains, but if one of those three takes control, the Wolverines will surge.

3. Jump Around at night -- Camp Randall Stadium is intimidating enough during daylight hours, but the electricity will reach new levels this fall with back-to-back night games against Ohio State and Penn State. The Badgers haven't lost at home under coach Bret Bielema, and they should have a tremendous home-field edge this fall.

4. The Spread HD -- Penn State's new offense remains somewhat of a mystery, but the Lions will try to utilize their many weapons at wide receiver, running back and quarterback. "Hopefully HD will stand for high def, highly diverse," quarterback Daryll Clark said, "and hopefully it doesn't turn out to be huge dud."

5. Jim Tressel vs. Pete Carroll -- Two of the sport's elite coaches couldn't be more different in personality or style (can't exactly picture Carroll in a sweater vest), but they will match wits when Ohio State visits USC in Week 3.

6. Little brother in the Big House -- The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry is growing, thanks to Mark Dantonio, but the Spartans need to win one of these games sooner or later. After six straight losses, Sparty heads to Ann Arbor on Oct. 25 determined to show they're nobody's little brother.

7. New quarterbacks -- Three teams will start new quarterbacks this fall, and Iowa's situation under center is far from settled. Wisconsin needs Allan Evridge to effectively manage games, while a greater load will be placed on Penn State's Clark and Michigan's new signal callers.

8. Beanie vs. P.J. -- Forget about the spread offense when Wisconsin and Ohio State meet Oct. 4 in Madison. The Big Ten's rushing roots will be on display as Heisman contender Beanie Wells goes up against P.J. Hill and the Badgers.

9. Juice in the pocket -- Juice Williams came on strong at the end of last season, and the Illinois quarterback continued to make strides in the spring and summer. He takes over an offense without Rashard Mendenhall and looks to pass more this fall.

10. Ferentz under fire -- Iowa's Kirk Ferentz still might be one of the league's top coaches, but he has to prove it this fall. With his reputation suffering on and off the field, Ferentz needs a strong season from a squad that has major questions on offense.

11. Tiller's farewell tour -- Joe Tiller revolutionized offense in the country's premier cold-weather conference, and the Purdue coach should be celebrated as he goes through his final season. The regular-season finale against Indiana will surely be emotional for Tiller and the Boilers fans.

12. Rejus Benn in the backfield -- The reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year is fully healthy following shoulder surgery, and that means more touches this fall. Defensive coordinators will shudder at the thought of Juice Williams and Benn running the option in the same backfield.

13. Grande Dos -- That's the self-appointed nickname of Illinois linebacker Martez Wilson, who was named to the Butkus Award watch list despite no career starts in college. Wilson will get every opportunity this fall to show why he could be the next Simeon Rice.

14. RichRod vs. Charlie Weis -- Both have been lauded as offensive innovators, though Weis' honeymoon ended when Notre Dame went 3-9 last year. Michigan is dealing with some eerily similar personnel losses, and Rodriguez's coaching ability will be tested when the Wolverines visit South Bend on Sept. 13.

15. Brian Hoyer in crunch time -- The Michigan State quarterback has taken heat for his fourth-quarter shortcomings, but he'll have plenty of chances to redeem himself this fall. Hoyer's poise under pressure will largely determine whether the Spartans back up their preseason hype.

16. Stephfon Green in the open field -- The Penn State running back enters the fall with tons of hype despite never playing a collegiate game. If the reports prove true, Green will torch defenses if he gets any room to run.

17. The renovated Memorial Stadium -- Illinois is bringing in so many great players for its reopening of Memorial Stadium on Sept. 6 that I expect Red Grange to miraculously turn up. The 1923 relic has been spruced up big time, and it should give coach Ron Zook another recruiting tool.

18. Lewis and the no-huddle -- Indiana coaches had Kellen Lewis in mind when they installed the no-huddle offense in the offseason. Lewis got a late start with the system after being suspended for spring ball, but the junior quarterback should catch up fast.

19. Painter's pursuit -- Purdue senior quarterback Curtis Painter is on pace to set a bevy of Big Ten career passing records this fall. The underrated Painter has a new group of receivers to
work with but consistently puts up big numbers.

20. Gilreath on the move -- Wisconsin sophomore David Gilreath is quickly developing into the league's most dangerous return man. He might not merit the Devin Hester treatment quite yet, but expect Gilreath to break some electrifying runs this fall.

21. Mike Hankwitz's impact -- Northwestern hasn't fielded a decent defense since adopting the spread offense in 2000. Hankwitz, the league's most experienced coordinator, steps in this fall and tries to change the script in Evanston.

22. Michigan Stadium makeover -- The team on the field isn't the only thing getting overhauled in Ann Arbor this season. Fans will enter a construction site every Saturday at Michigan Stadium, setting up an unusual game day experience.

23. Ringer returning kickoffs -- Michigan State star running back Javon Ringer will showcase his speed on kickoff returns this fall. How long the arrangement lasts isn't known -- I'm not sure how wise it is to put your best player on such a dangerous play -- but Ringer is sure to produce a highlight or two.

24. Minnesota's JUCOs -- Gophers coach Tim Brewster needed some immediate help on defense and got it with junior-college transfers like Tramaine Brock, Traye Simmons, Cedric McKinley and Rex Sharpe. How quickly those players blend in will determine whether Minnesota makes a jump this fall.

25. Finch on the field -- Indiana's Jerimy Finch has been cleared to play this fall, and the Florida transfer gives a big boost to the secondary. Considered arguably the nation's top safety coming out of high school, Finch will make his presence known right away.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

	AP Photo/Ann Heisenfelt
	After going 1-11 his first season as coach, Tim Brewster brought in juco transfers to push his starters.

CHICAGO -- When Tim Brewster arrived at Minnesota, he talked about canvassing the state's high schools to land top talent. His recruiting exploits at Texas and North Carolina were well-known, and he quickly brought several elite prospects to Minneapolis.

But after going 1-11 in his first season and seeing the Gophers defense set records for futility, Brewster looked elsewhere for help. He found it in the junior-college ranks, signing seven transfers, six on the defensive side. Brewster's primary objective was to find "immediate impact players," but he also put his returning starters on notice.

"We're not going to bring juco kids to provide depth," Brewster said. "They're going to hopefully help us immediately. ... Football's a game of competition, and you can't worry about getting your feelings hurt. These players know that if you don't come in and compete on a daily basis, I'm going to put somebody else on the field. We don't concern ourselves with last year's guys. It's all about us winning today."

Several of the transfers are projected to start after strong spring performances, including hard-hitting safety Tramaine Brock, cornerback Traye Simmons and linebacker Rex Sharpe. Defensive end Cedric McKinley, who teamed with Brock at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, will see significant playing time.

Senior linebacker Steve Davis took a help-is-on-the-way attitude toward the influx of junior-college transfers. The defense needed a facelift after finishing last in the nation in yards allowed (518.7 ypg) and 109th in points allowed (36.7 ppg). But the arrivals have also spurred the holdovers in new ways.

"It's something that Minnesota needs because there really wasn't that much competition," Davis said. "For (Brewster) to bring all these juco guys in, it says, 'Hey, they can come in and take your spot at any time.' It makes you play harder and do better so that you can play. Your job's at stake."

Brock is already drawing excellent reviews.

"Tremendous speed, toughness," Brewster said of Brock. "I like what he's brought to our defense."