ESPN College Football

2011 record: 11-3
2011 conference record: 7-1 (Legends Division champions)
Returning starters: Offense: 5; Defense: 8; kicker/punter: 2

Top returners

DE William Gholston, DE Marcus Rush, LB Denicos Allen, LB Max Bullough, LB Chris Norman, CB Johnny Adams, CB Darqueze Dennard, S Isaiah Lewis, RB Le'Veon Bell, LT Dan France, C Travis Jackson

Key losses
QB Kirk Cousins, DT Jerel Worthy, WR Keshawn Martin, WR B.J. Cunningham, S Trenton Robinson, RB Edwin Baker, TE Brian Linthicum

2011 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Le'Veon Bell* (948 yards)
Passing: Kirk Cousins (3,316 yards)
Receiving: B.J. Cunningham (1,306 yards)
Tackles: Max Bullough* (89)
Sacks: Denicos Allen* (11)
Interceptions: Isaiah Lewis* and Trenton Robinson (4)

Spring answers

1. Defensive depth: Michigan State returns eight starters off one of the best defenses in the country, and the coaching staff might have been most excited this spring about guys who didn't play much last year. Linebackers Darien Harris and Taiwan Jones, defensive ends Joel Heath and Shilique Calhoun and defensive back Trae Waynes all had impressive practices and showed that they're ready to contribute and push the starters. The Spartans won't have much drop off if their first-stringers need a break or get injured. That gives this defense a chance to be scary good in 2012.

2. The Bell tolls: Le'Veon Bell asserted himself at the end of last year as the team's top tailback, overtaking Edwin Baker. And after appearing to get called out by coach Mark Dantonio for being complacent early in the spring, he turned in some dominant efforts. At 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds, he's a rumbling freight train with surprising nimbleness in the open field. Do not be surprised to see him emerge as a superstar back this season if he remains focused.

3. O-line on the way up: Michigan State mixed and matched on the offensive line early last season because of injuries and inexperience. By the end of the season, the group was playing well. This spring, the line features six players who have started and much more maturity. That's one reason why Bell excelled this spring, as the Spartans' power running game looked much better. This figures to be the best and deepest O-line in Dantonio's tenure, and the offense could lean more on the ground attack while the passing game finds its wings.

Fall questions

1. Catching on: The top receivers coming out of spring were redshirt freshman Andre Sims Jr., little-used sophomore Keith Mumphery and Jeremy Langford, who made the switch from running back in the middle of spring practice. In other words, there's a dire lack of experience at the position that Keshawn Martin, B.J. Cunningham and Keith Nichol patrolled so well. Tennessee transfer DeAnthony Arnett was cleared by the NCAA for immediate eligibility on Thursday, and that should help. The Spartans are also going to need Tony Lippett and Bennie Fowler -- their two veterans even though both lack much receiver experience themselves -- to get healthy and for some true freshmen to make an impact. If there's a glaring concern for this year's team, it's definitely at this spot.

2. Maxwell's house: Michigan State feels confident that Andrew Maxwell, a fourth-year junior who sat behind Cousins the past three seasons, can make a smooth transition into the starting quarterback job. But Maxwell doesn't have much game time under his belt, and we won't know whether he can bounce back from adversity until it happens on the field this fall. It didn't help that he missed the last couple weeks of spring practice with a knee injury. The Spartans need him to stay healthy, or else they will have to turn to redshirt freshman Connor Cook. And a new quarterback could struggle with such a green receiving group.

3. Worthy replacements: Jerel Worthy skipped his senior season and wound up as a second-round NFL draft pick after an All-America campaign. The Spartans have a host of players looking to replace him at defensive tackle, with Vanderbilt transfer James Kittredge stepping up late in spring practice to assume the No. 1 reps. Depth won't be an issue, but it remains to be seen whether any of his successors have the kind of game-changing ability that Worthy brought when he was fully engaged. Nothing boosts a defense quite like a disruptive force in the middle of the line. We know the Spartans' defense will be good. Can it be great without a player like Worthy up front?

Michigan State finished sixth nationally in total defense last season and returns nine starters. Just as importantly, the Spartans return defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi, who was wooed by Texas A&M over the winter but chose to stay in East Lansing. Narduzzi's defense figures to once again be one of the very best in the country. I recently caught up with him to chat about the state of the defense this spring:

When you have so many starters back, how does that affect what you do in spring practice?

Pat Narduzzi: One thing it does for us is it gives us the opportunity to know that hopefully there's a lot of carryover from last season. We don't try to install any more defenses. We try to keep it at the same pace. You know, kids forget. Coaches can sit in the office 24/7 and talk about it, but for them, as soon as that bowl game against Georgia is over, those guys go on with their lives, with their girlfriends and studying English. But it allows you to come in and not make as many mistakes as you would with a young defense.

Yet you have to be excited about the potential for this defense with the players you have back, right?

PN: Yeah, it's exciting, but we still have to go out and make plays. We do have a lot of players back, so hopefully we can go out and be as productive as we were a year ago. But you can't get complacent, because what you did last year or the last game or even last week doesn't really matter. It's what you do right now. So every day we're building the 2012 defense.

You used the word complacent. How do you make sure the starters don't get too comfortable and that there's still a lot of competition?

PN: There are certain positions you can look at and say, "There's no way he's getting beat out." And there's probably, of the 11 positions out there, you've got to say there's six or seven of them. But we're starting to do such a good job recruiting that there are some battles out there at different spots, particularly at the defensive tackle spot, the safety spot and even the linebacker spot. There's a lot of spots that are really wide open. If a guy makes a mistake with the 1's, you pull him down to the 2's and really keep him on edge, in a positive way. With the starters, you expect perfection. When you make mistakes, that's not helping you. Another guy can get in and make mistakes, too.

(Read full post)

Before Michigan State hit the spring practice field for the first time, head coach Mark Dantonio met with the media to give an update on his team Tuesday.

Dantonio disclosed that senior starting linebacker Chris Norman will miss the spring with a shoulder injury, as will freshman linebacker Lawrence Thomas. Receiver Bennie Fowler, who's being counted on to take a bigger role at a position decimated by graduation, will miss at least the first half of spring practice with a foot injury.

But if that's the bad news, the good news is that the Spartans have a lot of depth and returning starters elsewhere, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines.

"I look around the conference right now and people are having a hard time with their numbers in terms of having a spring football game," Dantonio said. "We've got numbers on both the offensive line and defensive line which will enable us to do that really throughout the entire spring."

With Norman out, sophomore Taiwan Jones is listed as No. 1 at the star linebacker position. Dantonio sees promising things for the youngster.

"I think Taiwan will be an outstanding player for us here, and I think he'll compete for playing time," he said. "He pulls the pin, he's got as much power and explosiveness as any linebacker out there. He's big. He's quick, but he has to learn to play fast at all times. He can't second guess himself. But that's part of the experience and what spring is for."

The areas of intense competition include the offensive line, which has seven players back who started at some point last year, and at safety to replace Trenton Robinson. Kurtis Drummond, RJ Williamson, Jairus Jones are among those battling it out there.

Offensive lineman Skyler Burkland and defensive tackle Tyler Hoover -- who is listed at No. 1 at defensive tackle after moving over from end -- will go through spring after missing most of last year with injuries. Dantonio said he may limit both players a bit this spring but is excited to have them back.

Junior quarterback Andrew Maxwell will draw serious scrutiny this spring as he tries to replace Kirk Cousins. Dantonio expressed confidence in both him and backup Connor Cook, a redshirt freshman.

"[Maxwell] is game ready," Dantonio said. "What he hasn't been able to do right now is be in front of a media situation as much, be in front of a live situation as much. But he's gotten the reps and I think he'll be an outstanding quarterback, Connor Cook as well."

Receiver remains a concern, especially this spring as the Spartans await the arrival of several wideout recruits this summer. Right now, Tony Lippett and Keith Mumphery are listed as the No. 1 receivers. But Dantonio said the petition to make Tennessee transfer DeAnthony Arnett has been sent to the the NCAA, and the team is hopeful it will be approved. Arnett could provide a huge lift.

"We'll work him as if he's going to be game ready, and it should be a very exciting player, based on high school and how he ran around in winter conditioning," he said. "A very fluid athlete, very quick, explosive. He'll pay us great dividends, I think, as a person and player moving forward."

Brian Bennett looks at the positions that will need the most and least attention for Michigan State this spring.

We continue our postseason position rankings today as we move on to the linebackers.

Not surprisingly, Linebacker U takes the top spot, though it was a very close call. Depth helped the top two teams on this list, while star power marked spots Nos. 3 through 5. After that, it's a bit of a dropoff.

Away we go ...

1. Penn State: We thought this group could be the deepest linebacking corps in the league this past season, and that depth proved both true and invaluable when starter Michael Mauti went out in the fourth game of the season. Even without him, the Nittany Lions' linebackers played great, led by first team All-Big Ten performer Gerald Hodges, who had a breakout campaign. Nate Stupar filled in nicely for Mauti, and Glenn Carson was solid in his first year as a starter in the middle.

2. Michigan State: We wondered in the preseason how the Spartans would replace stars Greg Jones and Eric Gordon. The answer: very nicely, thank you. Sophomores Denicos Allen and Max Bullough emerged as fierce playmakers, especially on the blitz, and Chris Norman provided steady play on the weak side. All three return in 2012 to give Penn State a run for its money as the best group in the league.

3. Wisconsin: Mike Taylor and Chris Borland were finally healthy in the same season, and what a difference that made. They were a terrific pair, combining for 293 tackles and becoming the only Big Ten duo to average more than 10 tackles per game each. Taylor in particular made great strides. Kevin Claxton was overshadowed a bit as the third Badgers linebacker, but that's understandable given the amount of plays Borland and Taylor made.

4. Illinois: The emergence of Jonathan Brown (108 tackles, 19.5 for loss) as fire-breathing pass-rusher made this unit better than we projected in the preseason. Ian Thomas also had a good season at the position with 85 tackles, and Trulon Henry rounded out a strong crew before he missed time late following a shooting incident. The Illini defense stayed consistent throughout the team's struggles.

5. Nebraska: Depth was not a strong suit for the Huskers by any means, but there was no better linebacker in the league and few better in the nation than All-American Lavonte David. He had 133 tackles and countless big plays. Will Compton came on as the season wore along to provide a good complement to David. Finding consistent play elsewhere at the position was a challenge for Nebraska.

6. Ohio State: We pegged the Buckeyes at No. 3 in our preseason linebacker rankings, but it wasn't a vintage year for a group that struggled down the stretch drive. Andrew Sweat led the way with 72 tackles despite missing two games because of injury, and Etienne Sabino had a decent season (62 tackles, 6.5 for loss) if not the breakout season many had predicted. Freshman Ryan Shazier announced himself late in the year as a potential star in the making.

7. Michigan: The Wolverines' defense surprised everyone in 2011, though the defensive line was clearly the vanguard on that side of the ball. Kenny Demens led the team with 94 tackles, while freshmen Desmond Morgan and Jake Ryan made an immediate impact as starters. This wasn't an overwhelming group, but it was one that mostly did its job.

8. Iowa: The Hawkeyes had a hard time keeping everybody healthy and consistent, but this spot might have been the best part of their defense. James Morris and Christian Kirksey tied for the team lead with 110 tackles each, while Tyler Nielsen added 73 stops while battling some nagging injuries. The Iowa defense overall was disappointing, however.

9. Purdue: Danny Hope usually knew what to expect from week to week out of his linebackers: solid, consistent play. Joe Holland, Dwayne Beckford and Will Lucas each had between 82 and 94 stops as the top three tacklers on the team. Lucas and Holland also recorded double-digit tackles for loss. The chief complaint here is that the Boilermakers gave up some big point totals during the season.

10. Minnesota: The Gophers struggled up front and in the secondary, but linebacker was their most experienced and reliable defensive position, as expected. Veterans Gary Tinsley, Mike Rallis and Keanon Cooper played in every game, and were among the most consistent players on the team. Tinsley led the way with four sacks. Florida transfer Brendan Beal was expected to make an impact, but missed the season with a knee injury.

11. Northwestern: It wasn't a very good year overall for the Wildcats' defense, and linebacker was no exception. David Nwabuisi ranked third on the team with 84 tackles, while Bryce McNaul was right behind with 76. But Northwestern's starting trio combined for just 2.5 sacks and didn't come up with enough difference-making plays throughout the season.

12. Indiana: The good news for the Hoosiers was that Jeff Thomas was the best player on defense in 2011, finishing with 80 tackles, including 10.5 for loss. The bad news is that he was a senior. Besides Thomas, Indiana was forced to go young at the position, playing freshmen Chase Hoobler, Mike Replogle and Mark Murphy, a safety/linebacker hybrid, at times during the season. Kevin Wilson hopes the experience makes them better in '12, but this is yet another position that needs vast improvement going forward.

INDIANAPOLIS -- We've got another good one brewing between No. 13 Michigan State and No. 15 Wisconsin here at Lucas Oil Stadium, where Michigan State leads 36-28 after three quarters of play. The offenses have slowed down a bit, but Michigan State hit on a huge play at the end of the quarter to regain its 8-point advantage.

Some notes:

• Kirk Cousins is having another huge performance against Wisconsin. The Spartans senior quarterback has completed 21 of 25 pass attempts for 270 yards with three touchdowns and one interception. Aside from the pick, Cousins has been brilliant, continuing his surge from November.
• Jared Abbrederis has been Russell Wilson's favorite target for much of the season, but Abbrederis had no catches and wasn't targeted at all in the first half. Wisconsin needed to get No. 4 involved and delivered as Wilson evaded a face-mask-tugging Johnny Adams and found Abbrederis wide open for a 42-yard touchdown on the Badgers' opening drive of the second half.
• It has been a struggle for Wilson, who still doesn't have 100 yards passing. He's having trouble throwing over the Michigan State defensive line and caught a deflected pass for his second reception of the game late in the quarter.
• After taking several risks in the first half, Spartans coach Mark Dantonio passed up a fourth-and-3 situation from the Wisconsin 35-yard line and instead took a delay-of-game penalty. The decision looked a bit questionable, but Mike Sadler pinned the Badgers at their own 1-yard line.
• Wisconsin's offensive game plan has been a bit puzzling since the first quarter. The Badgers haven't really emphasized the run with Montee Ball, who had 105 rush yards in the first quarter but just 10 since. Also, tight end Jacob Pedersen has been a nonfactor, while Wilson continues to look for Toon, being covered by one of the league's top cornerbacks in Adams.
• Receiver/returner Keshawn Martin was one of my players to watch for Michigan State, and he has been a huge part of the game plan. Michigan State has hurt Wisconsin with swing passes and laterals to Martin, who has nine catches for 115 yards and four rushes for 22 yards. Martin has tortured Wisconsin throughout his career and looks to be having another big night against the Badgers.
• Michigan State linebacker Denicos Allen has had an outstanding game with three sacks. Other big contributors for the Spartans defense include linebacker Chris Norman, safety Trenton Robinson, defensive end William Gholston and defensive tackle Jerel Worthy.
• Wisconsin fans did the "Jump Around" here at Lucas Oil at the end of the quarter.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- A few pregame notes before kickoff between No. 17 Michigan State and Iowa at Kinnick Stadium.

• Michigan State linebacker Chris Norman (shoulder) worked with the first-team defense during warm-ups and didn't appear to be limited. Cornerback Darqueze Dennard (concussion) also warmed up without limitations. The only uncertainty for the Spartans is linebacker Steve Gardiner (neck).
• Iowa defensive end Lebron Daniel returns to the starting lineup today in place of Dominic Alvis, who tore his ACL in last week's win against Michigan. There shouldn't be any other lineup changes for the Hawkeyes.
• Iowa tight end Brad Herman has his hand wrapped. Not sure if it will limit him. Herman has moved to the second team in favor of C.J. Fiedorowicz.
• The winds were kicking up when I shot my pregame video. It seems to be more of a swirling wind right now.

In the spring, as Michigan State defensive players and coaches began to come up with their plans and goals for the season, they settled on one word to describe how they wanted to play: swag.

For the uninformed, that's a slang form of the word swagger. Few defenses in the country are exhibiting that trait more than the Spartans right about now.

"I feel like we've really got swag on our defense," linebacker Denicos Allen said. "Our confidence and swag is growing with every game and every challenge."

It's easy to see why. Michigan State battered, bruised and brutalized Ohio State and Michigan in back-to-back games, allowing just three touchdowns in the two wins while registering a total of 16 sacks. The defense ranks second nationally in yards allowed per game, first in stopping the pass, third against the run and fourth in points allowed.

There don't appear to be any weak links in this chain. The defensive front, anchored by massive tackle Jerel Worthy on the inside, controls the line of scrimmage. Linebackers Max Bullough, Chris Norman and Allen are fast and physical and have more than made up for the loss of veteran stars Greg Jones and Eric Gordon from last year's team. The secondary is dangerous either flying off the edge (see Johnny Adams' sack of Denard Robinson on fourth-and-1 last week) or in coverage (Isaiah Lewis' game-sealing pick-six against the Wolverines).

Combine all that with defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi's blitz-heavy scheme and you've got the recipe for some serious swag.

"Everybody has a green light," Norman said. "We all have a chance to get after the quarterback. We all have a chance to get into the backfield and shake some stuff up, make some really big plays. Our aggressive style of defense can really mess with the opponent."

The swag also comes from the emotion the Spartans exude on game days. Mark Dantonio said after Saturday's win that he wants his team to "play a little bit angry." Narduzzi talked about "60 minutes of unnecessary roughness," a phrase he and Dantonio spent most of this week deflating. But clearly the defense carries an edge in its approach, which may have gotten a bit out of hand against Michigan.

The Spartans were whistled for 13 penalties and five personal fouls in that game, the most infamous being William Gholston's two 15-yarders for twisting Robinson's facemask in a pile and punching offensive lineman Taylor Lewan after a dust-up between the two. As of midafternoon Thursday, the results of an inquiry into Gholston's fouls hadn't been announced. While Michigan State players aim for a nasty attitude, they don't want to be known for those kinds of penalties.

"We'd like to have some of that stuff back," Norman said. "We did make some poor decisions on Saturday, but the character of the guys on this defense shouldn't be questioned."

The trick for the Spartans this week is to remain disciplined while staying geared up emotionally for the third straight high-stakes game. They may need every ounce of their swag to combat the powerful Wisconsin offense, which leads the country in scoring at 50 points per game.

Shutting down a one-dimensional Ohio State team with a true freshman quarterback was one thing. Corralling Denard Robinson and Michigan's spread-it-out offense was more difficult. Now here come those earth-chewing, 300-pound Badgers offensive linemen, backed by a powerful running game and dual-threat quarterback Russell Wilson.

"This is a drastic change from what we saw last week," Dantonio said. "The challenges continue to mount, so we need to prove ourselves again defensively."

Still, Michigan State's defense is confident in what it can do against Wisconsin. First off, they've done it before. In last year's 34-24 win in East Lansing, the Spartans allowed only 292 total yards -- or about what the Badgers are getting in the first half this season. Asked if last season's showing emboldens the defense this year, Worthy answered, "Oh yeah. Definitely."

And while neither Ohio State nor Michigan plays quite like Wisconsin, the Spartans' own offense does.

"Our offense kind of has the same ideology as they do, so we've seen a lot of similar plays in camp and in spring ball," Norman said. "In a way, we're kind of used to it, so it shouldn't be a shock to us."

The Badgers come into this game as favorites, even on the road. No one has yet found an answer for all they can do on offense with Wilson at the controls. But Michigan State does have that whole swag thing going for it.

"Our defense is willing to take on any challenge in the country," Allen said. "And I think we're ready for it."

Depth chart fun continues today on the Big Ten blog as Michigan State released its two-deep for Friday night's season-opener against Youngstown State.

Although the Spartans name a clear starter at both quarterback (Kirk Cousins) and running back (Edwin Baker), they might get the nod for most "ORs" in the league.

Let's take a look:

• There are eight offensive or defensive positions with co-starters, including left tackle (Jared McGaha or Dan France), center (Blake Treadwell or Travis Jackson) and tight end (Brian Linthicum or Garrett Celek). Both defensive end spots and both outside linebacker spots list two potential starters for Youngstown State.
• Among the interesting position battles still to be decided are: sophomore William Gholston and junior Tyler Hoover at defensive end; Denicos Allen competing for both starting outside linebacker spots with Chris Norman and Steve Gardiner; McGaha and France at left tackle; and fifth-year seniors B.J. Cunningham and Keith Nichol at the "X" receiver spot.
• Keshawn Martin, a starting wide receiver, is listed as Michigan State's top option on both punt and kickoff returns. Larry Caper joins Martin on kickoff returns.
• Sophomore Max Bullough is the only clear-cut starting linebacker, as he'll be Michigan State's man in the middle. TyQuan Hammock serves as his backup.
• Dynamic redshirt freshman Tony Lippett is listed as both a backup cornerback to Darqueze Dennard and a fourth-string wide receiver.
• Not a huge surprise, but redshirt freshman Skyler Burkland has claimed the starting right tackle spot ahead of junior Fou Fonoti. Burkland is the only redshirt freshman projected to start, although classmate Marcus Rush is a possible starter at defensive end and Jackson could start at center.
• Caper and Le'Veon Bell are listed as co-backups at running back, while Nick Hill appears as the fourth-stringer.
• I'm a little surprised Dion Sims enters the year as the No. 3 tight end. Wouldn't be surprised if he ends up playing a big role in the passing game.

Earlier, we took a look at the Big Ten linebackers by position groups. Now it's time to rank the individual players at that spot.

The first and second team All-Big Ten linebackers from both the coaches and media selections last season are all gone. The league isn't flush with established stars at the position, and it's time for a crop of new standouts to emerge. In fact, the top player on our board didn't even play in the Big Ten last season.

Here are how we see them right now:

1. Lavonte David, Nebraska, Sr.: The league might be light on returning Big Ten award-winners, but David racked up the recognition in the Big 12 in 2010. And with good reason. A junior-college transfer, he had to take on a large role with Will Compton and Sean Fisher injured, sometimes playing as the only linebacker on the field. He responded with a school record 152 tackles. David has gotten stronger in the offseason and will hope his added muscle plus his speed and instincts help him against the more run-oriented Big Ten offenses.

2. Michael Mauti, Penn State, Sr: If Mauti can just stay healthy, he should challenge for All-Big Ten and perhaps All-America honors. But he missed all of 2009 with a torn ACL and was only able to finish nine games last season because of ankle and shoulder problems. He has been highly productive when not hampered by injuries and should be the leader of a deep and talented bunch for the Nittany Lions.

3. Chris Borland, Wisconsin, Soph.: Much like Mauti, Borland just needs to stay on the field. He was the 2009 Big Ten freshman of the year after recording 10.5 tackles for loss and five sacks as a rookie. But he missed most of last season and this spring with shoulder problems. The Badgers need him at full strength to live up to their considerable promise this season.

4. James Morris, Iowa, Soph.: As a true freshman in 2010, Morris had 70 tackles and started six games at middle linebacker. He starred in the Insight Bowl victory against Missouri with seven tackles. Morris looks like a rising star in this league.

5. Gary Tinsley, Minnesota, Sr.: Tinsley led the Gophers and finished ninth in the Big Ten with 90 stops a year ago in his first season as a starter. He's experienced and productive and should be a leader for a Minnesota defense that's looking to become tougher.

6. Andrew Sweat, Ohio State, Sr.: Overshadowed by Brian Rolle and Ross Homan, Sweat is now the veteran in the Buckeyes' linebacker corps. He had 41 tackles a year ago, and that number should only rise this season as he takes on more of a leadership role.

7. Ian Thomas, Illinois, Sr: With Martez Wilson and Nate Bussey moving on to the pro ranks, Thomas needs to hold down the fort. He's got the tools to do so. A starter for the past 25 games, he led the Illini with 95 tackles in 2009 before dipping down to 67 a year ago. He'll have plenty of opportunities to make stops this season.

8. Gerald Hodges, Penn State, Jr.: We're at the point in this list where it's time to make some projections. Hodges, a converted safety, has shown glimpses of serious potential in limited time. He had a good spring and could be primed to really take off this season. Also watch out for Khairi Fortt among the Nittany Lions linebackers.

9. Jeff Thomas, Indiana, Sr: Thomas was second on the Hoosiers with 82 tackles a year ago and will be counted on to lead the defense this season. A 100-tackle season is well within reach.

10. Mike Taylor, Wisconsin, Jr.: Like Borland, Taylor emerged as a star his freshman year in 2009. He has started all 19 games he has played in his career and finished second on the team last season with eight tackles for loss and two interceptions. Getting him and Borland healthy and on the field together would be big for the Badgers.

Just missed: Iowa's Tyler Nielsen, Michigan State's Chris Norman and Max Bullough, Nebraska's Sean Fisher, Michigan's Kenny Demens, Minnesota's Mike Rallis and Ohio State's Etienne Sabino.

It's time to jump back into our preseason position group rankings. We've made our way through the offenses and the front line of the defenses. Now it's time to take a look at the linebackers.

As always, this is a ranking of the entire position group, so depth matters in addition to individual star players.

Away we go:

1. Nebraska: Lavonte David set the school record with 152 tackles last year, best in the Big 12. He also added 15 tackles for loss and six sacks on his way to second-team All-America honors. David was a one-man wrecking crew last year but should get more help this year. Will Compton returns after an injury-shortened season, and Sean Fisher is back after a broken leg cost him all of 2010. With an excellent defensive front leading the way, the Cornhuskers' linebackers should make plenty of impact plays.

2. Penn State: Is this the return of Linebacker U? The Nittany Lions technically only return one starter at the position but have plenty of talent. The unit got hit by injuries last year, including one that knocked Michael Mauti out of the lineup for several games. He's one of the best in the Big Ten when healthy, which he should be in 2011. Senior Nate Stupar led the team in tackles last year. Sophomores Gerald Hodges and Khairi Fortt are among the skilled youngsters battling for playing time. This could wind up as the deepest linebacking corps in the league.

3. Ohio State: The Buckeyes lost two starters, including leading tackler Brian Rolle. But the Silver Bullets usually reload at linebacker. Senior Andrew Sweat should emerge as the unit's leader, and hopes are high for Etienne Sabino after he took a redshirt year in 2010. Sabino showed promise this spring and locked down a starting job. The battle is on for the third starting position. Incoming freshman Curtis Grant could make a sudden impact.

4. Wisconsin: Much depends on the health of Chris Borland, who missed nearly all of 2010 and sat out the spring with a shoulder injury. The 2009 Big Ten Freshman of the Year will move to middle linebacker and should anchor the unit if he's sound. Mike Taylor finished second on the team in tackles for loss and interceptions last year, and Kevin Claxton is expected to take over at the strongside spot. The Badgers like what they have seen from redshirt freshman Marcus Trotter.

5. Iowa: The Hawkeyes lost a lot of experience from the 2010 team, including leading tackler Jeremiha Hunter. While there's some concern about the leadership void, Iowa has good young building blocks here. James Morris was pressed into service as a true freshman and was terrific; another year of development should only make him better. Tyler Nielsen was missed down the stretch when he suffered a neck injury, and the senior provides a veteran presence. Players like Bruce Davis, Christian Kirksey and Anthony Hitchens need to take on bigger roles.

6. Michigan State: It would be difficult to overstate how much the Spartans will miss two-time All-American Greg Jones and Eric Gordon, who combined to start 95 games in their illustrious careers. But life goes on. The lone returning starter, Chris Norman, is a dependable veteran. The Spartans hope Max Bullough and Denicos Allen build on their potential, and TyQuan Hammock inspired confidence with his play this spring.

7. Minnesota: An experienced linebacker group could be the strength of the Gophers defense this season. All three starters -- leading tackler Gary Tinsley, Keanon Cooper and Mike Rallis -- are back. Rallis needs to stay healthy after only appearing in 12 games the past two years because of injuries. Florida transfer Brendan Beal should provide a boost.

8. Purdue: The Boilermakers are led by senior Joe Holland, who has 35 career starts under his belt. Junior Dwayne Beckford finished second on the team with 85 tackles a year ago. Will Lucas could break out after an excellent true freshman campaign. Senior Chris Carlino adds veteran depth.

9. Michigan: The Wolverines struggled defensively last year, and the linebackers shouldered some of the blame. They lost Jonas Mouton to the NFL. Cam Gordon moves down from safety and adds some playmaking ability. Kenny Demens had 82 tackles last year at middle linebacker. Freshman Jake Ryan should contribute right away. This group still has a lot to prove.

10. Illinois: The Illini have to rebuild after losing a pair of NFL draft picks at the position in Martez Wilson and Nate Bussey. Senior Ian Thomas now becomes the veteran leader. Sophomores Johnathan Brown and Houston Bates -- who had a strong spring -- will be counted on to step forward.

11. Indiana: Fifth-year senior Jeff Thomas could be the centerpiece of the Hoosiers defense. Another fifth-year senior is Leon Beckum, though he lacks top-end speed. Overall, there isn't a lot of depth here.

12. Northwestern: Linebacker play was a sore spot last season, and starters Nate Williams and Quentin Davie are gone. Bryce McNaul needs to recover all the way from shoulder surgery and has to stay healthy. Pat Fitzgerald thinks he has some talented young players at the position; they'll need to grow up fast.

The Hope and Concern series marches on with the Michigan State Spartans.

Biggest reason for hope: Depth at the skill positions

Michigan State's recruiting and development have really paid off at spots like running back, wide receiver, defensive back and linebacker. The Spartans bring back veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, all three of their primary running backs, B.J. Cunningham and several other contributors at receiver and multiple tight ends who can make plays. On the defensive side, the secondary once again should be solid with players like safety Trenton Robinson and cornerback Johnny Adams, who came on strong this spring. Although Greg Jones and Eric Gordon will be missed at linebacker, the Spartans should have enough there with Chris Norman, Max Bullough, TyQuan Hammock, Denicos Allen and others.

Biggest reason for concern: The offensive line

Line play is the area separating Michigan State from elevating its program from good to great. The coming season should provide a good gauge on whether the Spartans can take the next step as they must improve on both sides of the ball. The defensive line could be an area of strength, but there are significant questions up front after Michigan State lost both starting tackles and center John Stipek. Converted defensive linemen like Dan France and Blake Treadwell will be integral this fall, especially France, who should enter the season as the team's starting left tackle. The coaches think the line will be more athletic, but can a new-look group come together and play consistently?

More Hope and Concern

• Purdue
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Minnesota
• Penn State

These links go out to Taj Gibson.

• Ohio State coach Jim Tressel hired Gene Marsh to represent him before the NCAA, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch. Folks like Marsh typically lead to softer penalties from the NCAA, CBSSports.com's Gregg Doyel writes. Despite all the controversy, Tressel has no intention of quitting, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
• A really good piece from The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette's Scott Dochterman on how a nine-game conference schedule could impact the Big Ten. Several ADs weigh in on the nine-game debate, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• It was a big weekend for former Michigan coach Lloyd Carr, and you can read about it here and here and here. Former Michigan players aren't surprised by the Ohio State mess, annarbor.com's Michael Rothstein writes. Wolverines wideout Darryl Stonum pleads not guilty to drunken driving.
• Some interesting comments from Nebraska AD Tom Osborne in this Q&A with the Associated Press' Eric Olson. Nebraska officials will find a more congenial atmosphere at the Big Ten spring meetings, Tom Shatel writes in the Omaha World-Herald. Huskers running back recruit Ameer Abdullah is comfortable under the radar, Brian Christopherson writes in the Lincoln Journal Star.
• Michigan State fans shouldn't get too caught up in recruiting buzz, Joe Rexrode writes in the Lansing State Journal. Spartans linebacker Chris Norman looks to get healthy, George Sipple writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• The (Champaign) News-Gazette's Bob Asmussen makes the case for and against former Illinois star Moe Gardner making the College Football Hall of Fame.
• Purdue has made quarterback a priority position in recruiting, Rivals.com's Kyle Charters writes.
• The Daily Collegian checks in with Penn State DT Brandon Ware. Former Penn State running back Austin Scott says he's the victim of a conspiracy, Sara Ganim writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News. More Penn State trouble spots from Linebacker U.
• The lockout has prevented Iowa tight end Allen Reisner and other undrafted players from finding a pro home, Mike Hlas writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette.
• Mgoblog takes another stab at renaming the Big Ten divisions.
• Pitt coach Todd Graham would love to revive the Penn State series.

I apologize for the delay, but it's finally time to examine the Big Ten's top candidates to reach 100 tackles or more in the 2011 season. We've already looked at the league's top touchdown scorers (15 or more), 1,000-yard rushing candidates, sack-masters, 3,000-yard passers and top interceptors.

The Big Ten had six players record 100 or more tackles in 2010: Michigan linebacker Jonas Mouton (117), Michigan safety Jordan Kovacs (116), Penn State linebacker Chris Colasanti (112), Illinois linebacker Martez Wilson (112), Northwestern safety Brian Peters (107) and Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones (106). Seven Big Ten defenders reached the 100-tackle mark in 2010, led by Jones (154) and Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer (146).

Nebraska star linebacker Lavonte David actually is the Big Ten's leading returning tackler after recording 154 stops in 2010.

Let's be clear that tackles don't mean everything, and there have been some mediocre defenders who end up high on the tackles charts. I've also noticed that some of the Big Ten's historically elite defenses, like Ohio State, rarely have players approach 100 tackles. This can be attributed in part to good team defense and also to being on the field for fewer plays. So if a player from your favorite team doesn't appear below, it might not be a bad thing.

Still, 100 tackles is a milestone and several Big Ten players should approach it.

Here are the top candidates:

1. Nebraska LB Lavonte David: He set a team single-season record for tackles in 2010 and should be able to surpass 100 stops for the second consecutive year. David recorded 10 tackles or more in eight contests in 2010 and had 15 stops or more three times. It'll be interesting to see how he adjusts to Big Ten offenses, but he's too good not to be around the ball.

2. Northwestern S Brian Peters: I'm not sure Northwestern wants to have a safety eclipse 100 tackles again, but Peters once again could be the team's go-to tackler as it loses two multiyear starters at linebacker. He recorded 10 tackles or more in six games last fall.

3. Penn State LB Michael Mauti: Sure, he only had 67 tackles last fall, but Mauti is poised for a breakout season if he can stay healthy. Mauti has a chance to put up Posluszny/Connor tackle numbers as he continues to mature. Penn State will be a more linebacker-driven defense this fall, and several players -- Mauti, Nathan Stupar, Gerald Hodges -- could challenge for 100 tackles.

4. Iowa S/CB Micah Hyde: Hyde had 82 tackles from the cornerback spot in 2010 and should see that number increase if he plays more safety this fall. Although an Iowa linebacker like James Morris certainly could climb up the tackles chart this fall, Hyde seems to have a knack for being around the football.

5. Purdue S Logan Link: After leading the team with 91 tackles in 2010, Link is poised for another productive season. Purdue has some question marks in the seven front seven, and it will rely on Link and other defensive backs to move down and make plays against the run.

6. Indiana LB Jeff Thomas: Thomas finished last season with 82 tackles, five shy of team leader Tyler Replogle. As Replogle departs, Thomas will move into a more featured role at linebacker and should definitely be in the mix for 100 tackles or more. Indiana's defense also could spend a lot of time on the field this fall, giving Thomas plenty of tackle opportunities.

Also keep an eye on the following players:

• Michigan LB Kenny Demens and S Jordan Kovacs
• Iowa LB James Morris
• One of Michigan State's LBs (Chris Norman, Max Bullough, TyQuan Hammock)
• Illinois LB Ian Thomas
• Minnesota LBs Gary Tinsley or Mike Rallis

Our Big Ten spring preview continues with a look at the Legends Division.

IOWA

Start of spring practice: March 23
Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Succession plan for Stanzi: Remember James Vandenberg? The plucky young quarterback who nearly led Iowa to a milestone win at Ohio State in 2009 returns to the spotlight as Iowa looks to replace three-year starter Ricky Stanzi. Vandenberg had only eight pass attempts in 2010, so it'll be interesting to see how he adjusts to a potential featured role. John Wienke and A.J. Derby also will be in the mix.
• A new-look defensive front: Iowa loses three multiyear starters along the defensive line, all of whom likely will go onto the NFL. Mike Daniels and Broderick Binns return, but Iowa must begin building depth around them after not playing a large rotation of linemen in 2010. It'll be a big spring for reserve defensive linemen like Lebron Daniel and Steve Bigach.
• Rhabdo fallout: Iowa expects the 13 players hospitalized last month with rhabdomyolysis to be ready for spring ball, but there are questions about how the group responds to the rigors of practice. Expect the staff to take every precaution to make sure the players are ready to go. Iowa's internal investigation into what happened could reach its conclusion during the spring practice session.

MICHIGAN

Start of spring practice: March 19
Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Hoke springs eternal: All eyes will be on new coach Brady Hoke as he oversees his first 15 practice sessions as the leading man in Ann Arbor. Hoke and his staff introduce new offensive and defensive systems, and Hoke likely will spend much of his time with a defense that reached historic lows during former coach Rich Rodriguez's tenure. An adjustment period can be expected, but Hoke wants to get things rolling as soon as he can.
• Denard Robinson: The 2010 Big Ten offensive player of the year thrived in Rodriguez's spread offense. How will he be used in coordinator Al Borges' system? Will Robinson's unique talents still be maximized? After making major strides last offseason, Robinson must continue to grow as he adjusts to a new offense. This is also a big spring for backup quarterback Devin Gardner.
• The move to the 4-3: Michigan is going back to a 4-3 defensive alignment under coordinator Greg Mattison, and the transition begins this spring. The defensive front has to lead the way, and the personnel is there to get it done. The Wolverines are a little thinner at linebacker, but saw some encouraging signs from Kenny Demens this past fall. Others must emerge at the position this spring.

MICHIGAN STATE

Start of spring practice: March 29
Spring game: April 30

What to watch:

• Familiar face, new leadership: Dan Roushar takes over as Spartans offensive coordinator, and while you shouldn't expect many dramatic changes, the veteran assistant will put his personal touch on the system. Roushar wants to fully re-establish the run game Michigan State displayed in the early part of the 2010 season. It'll also be interesting to see how he works with quarterback Kirk Cousins.
• Reloading at linebacker: Michigan State loses two of the more productive linebackers in recent team history in Greg Jones and Eric Gordon. Returning starter Chris Norman will take on an enhanced role, and the spring will be big for younger linebackers like Max Bullough, Steve Gardiner and Denicos Allen.
• Elevating the O-line play: You can bet Roushar will have an eye on his old position group, the offensive line, as it replaces starters at both tackle spots and at center. If Michigan State can get its offensive line play where competitors like Iowa and Wisconsin have it, the Spartans will be Big Ten title contenders for years to come. Michigan State has some nice pieces like veteran guard Joel Foreman, but it must build depth this spring.

MINNESOTA

Start of spring practice: March 24
Spring game: April 23

What to watch:

• A time to Kill. Jerry Kill conducts his first 15 practices as Minnesota's coach and he has no shortage of challenges. He and his assistants must install new systems on both sides of the ball and, perhaps more importantly, get across their expectations for the players going forward. Kill wasn't overly thrilled with his first impression of the squad, so he has a lot of work to do.
• Gray back at QB: After a season playing primarily wide receiver, MarQueis Gray is back at his preferred position of quarterback. Kill and his assistants made no secret of the fact that they see tremendous potential in Gray, a dual-threat signal-caller who could end up being a terrific fit for Kill's offense. It will be interesting to see how much Gray can absorb this spring as he prepares to lead the unit.
• Kim Royston's return: Minnesota's defense got a huge boost when the NCAA somewhat surprisingly granted safety Kim Royston a sixth year of eligibility. Royston, who had a strong season in 2009 before breaking his leg last spring, is ready to go and should provide some much-needed leadership in the secondary. New defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys will be on the lookout for playmakers and leaders this spring, and he'll find one in Royston.

NEBRASKA

Start of spring practice: March 12
Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• New vision on offense: Nebraska likely will have a championship-level defense in 2011, but will the offense bounce back from a poor finish to last season? Tim Beck is the man pegged to get things back on track. Coach Bo Pelini promoted Beck to offensive coordinator, and Beck will begin to implement his vision for the unit this spring. Nebraska figures to stick with the spread, but what version Beck wants to use remains to be seen.
• The quarterbacks: Taylor Martinez stiff-armed the transfer rumors, and in January said he looked forward "getting healthy and getting my strength and speed back." The big question: Will he also get his job back as Nebraska's starting quarterback? Martinez can help himself with a strong spring, but Cody Green also is in the mix and things could get very interesting if Bubba Starling decides to stick with football rather than pursue a pro baseball career.
• New faces on staff: In addition to promoting Beck, Pelini hired three new assistants: Corey Raymond (secondary), Ross Els (linebackers) and Rich Fisher (receivers). Raymond takes over a talented group that must replace three standout players, including cornerback Prince Amukamara. It'll be interesting to watch Fisher, who most recently coached in high school and also served as a golf teacher, as he transitions back to big-time football.

NORTHWESTERN

Start of spring practice: March 7
Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Rebuilding the defense: Northwestern figures to have one of the Big Ten's top offenses this fall, but there are major issues on the other side of the ball. The Wildcats' defense flat-lined in the final three games, surrendering 163 points and getting dominated at the line of scrimmage. It's a big spring for coordinator Mike Hankwitz, who must fill gaps at spots like linebacker, but more importantly must restore the aggressiveness seen in 2008 and part of 2009.
• The backup QB race: Dan Persa is still rehabbing his surgically repaired Achilles' tendon and won't do much in spring ball. It provides an opportunity for Northwestern to hold an extensive competition to see who backs up Persa this coming season. Kain Colter provided a spark in the bowl game and could be the answer. Evan Watkins needs a bounce-back spring, and Trevor Siemian will be in the mix after redshirting this past fall.
• Here's the kicker: Northwestern loses four-year starting specialist Stefan Demos and will look to identify a replacement this spring. Neither Jeff Budzien nor Steve Flaherty has attempted a field goal in a game -- they have combined for two PAT conversions -- so the race will be wide open. Special teams has cost Northwestern at inopportune times over the years, but it could be an area of strength in 2011 if the kicker situation is sorted out.