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D.L. Wilhite has been at Minnesota long enough to remember Willie VanDeSteeg.

Wilhite's first season with the Gophers, in 2008, was VanDeSteeg's last. Although Wilhite redshirted that fall, he worked alongside VanDeSteeg at practice, and VanDeSteeg took him under his wing. That season, VanDeSteeg recorded 10.5 sacks, tied for second in the league, and 19 tackles for loss en route to earning first-team All-Big Ten honors from the media.

But since VanDeSteeg's departure, Minnesota hasn't had a pass rusher close to his caliber. The team hasn't had a player record more than four sacks in each of the past three seasons. Minnesota's sacks leaders had just three sacks in both 2009 and 2010, while the late Gary Tinsley, a linebacker, led the team with four last year.

After finishing 24th nationally in sacks in 2008, largely thanks to VanDeSteeg, Minnesota slipped to 78th in 2009, 120th (last in FBS) in 2010 and 86th last season.

"Coming up, Willie was my role model," Wilhite told ESPN.com. "He was the one I looked up to. When he left, I looked Willie in the eye and told him I was going to be better than him, and I feel like I haven't shown that up until this point."

Wilhite has one last chance to ensure his promise to VanDeSteeg. And what a boost he could provide to a defense sorely needing one from the front four in 2012.

He leads a group of young defensive ends who have made the pass rush their peak priority this spring. Gophers defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys is open to turning his linemen loose, but they have to show they can finish in the backfield.

Ben Perry, who started all 12 games as a redshirt freshman in 2011, feels the line is getting closer and points to the season finale against Illinois, where Minnesota recorded a season-high five sacks in a 27-7 victory. But the group needs to upgrade its fundamentals, which are being stressed this spring.

"We can't be taking inefficient moves," said Perry, who recorded 15 tackles and a sack last season. "We've got to keep our hips toward the quarterback, stay low and keep leverage. We do drills, making sure we stay under the chute and keeping not just our pad level low but our legs bent."

Minnesota's defensive linemen recognize the urgency to upgrade their play, not just for the team but in a league like the Big Ten. The Gophers return most of their linebackers and should be solid there, but they once again have question marks in the secondary after finishing 11th in the league and 107th nationally in pass defense in 2011.

"If we're getting pressure, it alleviates stress on a lot of different people," said Wilhite, who had three sacks and a forced fumble last season. "The DBs aren't having to cover as long, the linebackers aren't having to cover as long. We're not having to bring people to blitz, so we can drop more people off in coverage."

The team's declining pass rush is more pronounced in a league like the Big Ten, which regularly boasts four or five top 20 defenses. The league produces many more elite NFL draft prospects from the defensive line than from any other position.

"Year in and year out, the team that's going to win the Big Ten championship probably is going to have the best D-line," Wilhite said. "In the past years, Iowa's had great D-lines, Ohio State's had great D-lines. So if we want to win, it has to start with us."

Although Wilhite is a fifth-year senior with 20 starts the past two seasons, Minnesota remains fairly young at defensive end. Perry is a redshirt sophomore, while Michael Amaefula, a true sophomore, made four starts last fall. Thieren Cockran, who redshirted last fall, should be in the rotation this year.

Wilhite singled out Amaefula's play this spring, noting that they try to mimic each other's pass-rush moves. Perry also is showing more confidence on the practice field.

"You learn so much more in a game than you ever could in a practice, just stepping on that field each play," he said. "The experience, it's incomparable."

Wilhite's college experience won't be complete without a big senior season. As the leader of the defensive ends, he still plans to fulfill his pledge to VanDeSteeg, who attends one or two Minnesota games per season.

"I want to see him one more time," Wilhite said, "and be like, 'OK, Willie, you had 10 sacks your senior year, but I had 11.'"

Served piping hot ...

• Don't forget to check out our Big Ten preview coverage.
• Some think Northwestern quarterback Dan Persa is limping, but coach Pat Fitzgerald calls it a "pimp walk," Tina Akouris writes in the Chicago Sun-Times.
• JoePa could play a big part in fixing college football, Stephanie Loh writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News. Penn State linebacker Glenn Carson moves up the depth chart, Jake Kaplan writes in the Philadelphia Inquirer. Mike Yancich returns to linebacker from tight end, Ron Musselman writes in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
• After appearing in a movie this summer, Iowa's Dominic Alvis could enter the on-field spotlight in the fall, Scott Dochterman writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette. The new Cy-Hawk trophy justifiably gets panned.
• Rival ADs Dave Brandon (Michigan) and Mark Hollis (Michigan State) weigh in on several topics, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Linebacker Max Bullough raises the bar for Michigan State's defense, Matt Charboneau writes in The Detroit News. Coach Mark Dantonio breaks down the latest Spartans scrimmage.
• The Times-Tribune's Donnie Collins previews the Leaders division.
• Ohio State offensive lineman Jack Mewhort prepares for a starting role, Ryan Autullo writes in The Toledo Blade. Buckeyes coach Luke Fickell doesn't like compliments, Bill Livingston writes in The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer.
• Freshman offensive lineman Tony Posada leaves Michigan, annarbor.com's Kyle Meinke writes.
• The buzz is building in Madison, colleague Bruce Feldman writes.
• Nebraska's Eric Martin lays the wood, Jon Nyatawa writes in the Omaha World-Herald. Huskers DT Jared Crick talks with "College Football Live."
• Some good thoughts on Illinois from The (Champaign) News-Gazette's Loren Tate. A truck driver's son could soon be carrying the load for Illinois' offense, GateHouse News Service's John Supinie writes.
• Minnesota's D.L. Wilhite provides hope for the future of college football, Chip Scoggins writes in the Star Tribune. Gophers tight end Eric Lair makes his presence known in his return to practice, Marcus Fuller writes in the (St. Paul) Pioneer Press.
• Here are four individuals worth watching at Purdue this season.

A few PM items for you on a toasty Tuesday in Chicago:

• Penn State added a big piece for its 2012 recruiting class as four-star quarterback prospect Skyler Mornhinweg committed to the Nittany Lions on Tuesday afternoon. If you're wondering about the last name, Skyler is the son of Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg. He originally committed to Stanford but withdrew his pledge after coach Jim Harbaugh left for the 49ers job. Mornhinweg, ranked as the nation's No. 16 quarterback by ESPN Recruiting, also received interest from Alabama, Tennessee and Illinois. Penn State has several young quarterbacks in Robert Bolden, Paul Jones and Kevin Newsome, but the team's QB picture could look different by the time Mornhinweg is ready to see the field.
• Iowa announced its three "color games" for the 2011 season. Fans attending the Sept. 17 home game against Pitt will be asked to "Be Bold, Wear Gold." The Oct. 15 prime-time game against recent nemesis Northwestern will allow fans to stripe Kinnick Stadium in black and gold. Fans in even numbered sections are asked to wear gold and fans in odd numbered sections are asked to wear black. This is my favorite display by far, as last year's game against Penn State looked amazing. Iowa's home finale Nov. 12 against Michigan State has been designated the annual "Blackout" game at Kinnick. Here's a look at the "Blackout" against Michigan in 2009.
• Allstate and the AFCA on Tuesday announced their nominees for 2011 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, and seven Big Ten players made the list. The team recognizes players at all levels of college football who excel in community service work. The Big Ten nominees are: Northwestern OT Al Netter, Minnesota DE D.L. Wilhite, Iowa P Eric Guthrie, Nebraska DT Jared Crick, Indiana LB Leon Beckum, Michigan G Patrick Omameh and Purdue QB Rob Henry. The 11-player FBS Good Works Team will be announced in late September.

Jerry Kill wraps up his first spring session as Minnesota's coach on Saturday with the spring game at TCF Bank Stadium.

Let's take a closer look.

The vitals: 1 p.m. CT Saturday (2 p.m. ET) at TCF Bank Stadium; admission is free, parking is $10 in surrounding lots.

More details: Minnesota will have the Floyd of Rosedale on display and hold several activities on the West Plaza. Click here for more information.

Three things to watch

1. The new staff: Kill has been candid about needing to change the culture around the program, and he has pulled no punches this spring in his team/player critiques both on and off the field. The staff has accelerated the practice pace, and fans should notice a quicker tempo on both sides of the ball. Kill has made toughness and finishing priorities, and he'll demand a strong effort Saturday. This staff has turned around programs before, and Minnesota fans should get a glimpse of their typically animated coaching methods in the spring game.

2. The defensive line: Minnesota returns some nice pieces at both linebacker and defensive back, but the unit will struggle again without better play up front. After ranking last nationally in sacks last season (9), the Gophers need a jolt and want to show more aggressiveness in rushing the passer. Kill singled out senior end Anthony Jacobs for his play this spring but said, "we've got to get better in that area." It's important for players like Jacobs, Brandon Kirksey and D.L. Wilhite to finish the spring on a good note.

3. The running backs: There hasn't been a ton of separation as four backs -- Duane Bennett, DeLeon Eskridge, Lamonte Edwards and Donnell Kirkwood -- continue to compete. Although the coaches say they'll need at least two backs this fall, there is opportunity for a featured runner to emerge in this offense (see: Northern Illinois' Chad Spann in 2010). Bennett and Eskridge have the edge in experience, but the staff has wiped the slate clean and every back is getting a chance to prove himself. Injuries have hit Minnesota hard at receiver as of late, so the running backs should get plenty of work Saturday.

We'll start with links from teams that held spring games Saturday and then go from there ...

• PENN STATE: The Rob Bolden situation remains a mystery, Donnie Collins writes in The Times-Tribune. Bolden's decision will have a ripple effect for Penn State, Philip Cmor writes in the Altoona Mirror. Four lessons from the Blue-White Game, Bob Flounders writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News. Franco Harris says JoePa will know when to go, Audrey Snyder writes in The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
• NEBRASKA: The Blackshirts and Jamal Turner highlight Nebraska's spring game, Tom Shatel writes in the Omaha World-Herald. Huskers quarterback Brion Carnes makes a strong first impression, Brian Christopherson writes in the Lincoln Journal Star. Coach Bo Pelini sums up the spring game.
• MICHIGAN: New coach Brady Hoke has a lot of work to do, Michael Rosenberg writes in the Detroit Free Press. Some hot topics from the spring game. Hoke's off-field work has been valuable in uniting Michigan fans, annarbor.com's Pete Bigelow and the Sporting News' Dave Curtis write. The Notre Dame-Michigan series could be impacted by the Big Ten schedule, Angelique Chengelis writes in The Detroit News.
• IOWA: A.J. Derby is fortunate to have options on where he plays, Pat Harty writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Some observations from Iowa's practice/scrimmage, Marc Morehouse writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette. Good news: Iowa broadcaster Ed Podolak seems to be recovering well, Randy Peterson writes in the Des Moines Register. Some Iowa injury notes from Morehouse.
• NORTHWESTERN: Senior receiver Charles Brown finished off a very strong spring, Tina Akouris writes in the Chicago Sun-Times. Northwestern wants to play more games at Wrigley Field -- but only after the Friendly Confines gets a makeover, Teddy Greenstein writes in the Chicago Tribune. The Wildcats' backup quarterbacks were in the spotlight Saturday, ESPNChicago.com's Scott Powers writes.
• INDIANA: The Hoosiers still don't have an answer at quarterback, Terry Hutchens writes in the Indianapolis Star. An overview of Indiana's spring game from The (Bloomington) Herald-Times' Dustin Dopirak (subscription required). Several Fort Wayne natives shined in the spring game, LaMond Pope writes in The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette.
• Ohio State's offense had a rough time in Saturday's scrimmage, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Buckeyes' linebacker Etienne Sabino is finally ready to shine, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• A very cool story on how Minnesota's D.L. Wilhite and Brandon Kirksey spent their spring break, Phil Miller writes in the Star Tribune. Despite the cold weather, several recruits enjoyed themselves at Minnesota's recent scrimmage, Marcus Fuller writes in the (St. Paul) Pioneer Press.
• The (Champaign) News-Gazette's Bob Asmussen projects Illinois' two-deep for 2011. Illini fullback Jay Prosch played tailback Saturday following a rash of injuries, and he delivered, Mark Tupper writes in The (Decatur) Herald & Review.
• Wisconsin receiver Jared Abbrederis hopes to become the next Luke Swan, Tom Mulhern writes in the Wisconsin State Journal. The Badgers' defense is looking for greater consistency, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
• Michigan State linebacker Denicos Allen is ready for the limelight, Denny Schwarze writes in the Lansing State Journal. New Spartans offensive coordinator Dan Roushar wants to go vertical, Matt Charboneau writes in The Detroit News.
• Purdue adds a safety for its 2012 recruiting class, Kyle Neddenriep writes in the Indianapolis Star.

The Big Ten featured only one spring game this weekend, but plenty of teams took to the field for scrimmages. I've compiled some scrimmage highlights from around the league based on reports from official team websites and other media sources. Several teams didn't provide specifics about their scrimmages, but I included what I could find.

ILLINOIS

The Illini scrimmaged for about 90 minutes Saturday, and all players were involved in contact aside from starting quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase.

Notes

• The offense prevailed in the scrimmage and gashed the defense for several big runs. Troy Pollard took most of the reps at running back as Jason Ford sat out with a sore knee, and Pollard helped his cause with 110 rush yards on 19 carries. Scheelhaase completed 7 of 12 passes for 53 yards and added 58 yards on the ground, while backup Miles Osei had a 63-yards pass to Fred Sykes and finished the day with 165 yards through the air.
• Coach Ron Zook singled out linebacker Houston Bates for his play in the scrimmage. Bates had a sack and a quarterback hurry. He saw increased playing time after Jonathan Brown was kicked out of the scrimmage after throwing a punch and drawing a personal foul penalty.

INDIANA

The Hoosiers held their second scrimmage of the spring Saturday afternoon at Memorial Stadium. Check out coach Kevin Wilson's thoughts as well as some highlights.

Notes

• The offense got the best of the defense Saturday after the D shined in Indiana's previous scrimmage. Receivers Duwyce Wilson and Kofi Hughes stood out in the highlights Indiana showed on its website, as Hughes had a long touchdown reception and Wilson was forced out just shy of the goal line. Both players have been impressive this spring and should complement top wideout Damarlo Belcher in the fall.

IOWA

No official information from Iowa's scrimmage Saturday, but here's a photo gallery and some recent player interviews from the team's website.

MICHIGAN

No official information from Michigan's scrimmage Saturday, but here are video interviews with defensive tackle Mike Martin and offensive lineman Patrick Omameh. Running backs Vincent Smith, Michael Cox and Stephen Hopkins had some nice runs in the video highlights.

MICHIGAN STATE

The Spartans held their first jersey scrimmage Friday and the defense prevailed 55-45 in a modified scoring system. The defense had 18 ways to score points, while the offense had 11 ways to score, including touchdowns and field goals.

Notes

• The defense dominated the scrimmage, holding the offense without a first down on the first five possessions and without points for the first 13 possessions. Michigan State's D recorded three sacks and two interceptions during the stifling stanza. The only two touchdowns scored came during the goal line and red zone portions of the scrimmage.
• Defensive ends William Gholston and Tyler Hoover combined for nine tackles, three tackles for loss, a sack and a pass breakup. Sophomore linebacker TyQuan Hammock recorded an interception. "The defense played well -- tackled effectively, pressured the quarterback and came away with some turnovers," coach Mark Dantonio said in a news release.
• Starting quarterback Kirk Cousins had a rough day (6-for-16 passing, 41 yards, INT), although he didn't get much help from his receivers, who dropped three passes. Backup Andrew Maxwell completed 15 of 26 passes for 116 yards with an interception.
• The touchdowns came from Edwin Baker (22-yard run) and Le'Veon Bell (6-yard run). Receiver Keith Mumphery caught a 43-yard pass from Maxwell.

MINNESOTA

The Gophers scrimmaged Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium and ran about 120 plays.

Notes

• Minnesota's defense held the upper hand as the offense struggled to gain a first down early in the scrimmage. The defensive line had a very good day as tackles Brandon Jacobs and Brandon Kirksey both stood out. Jacobs sacked No. 1 quarterback MarQueis Gray and Kirksey recorded a blocked field goal attempt. Ends D.L. Wilhite and Ra'Shede Hageman also made some plays. "The defensive line got up the field a lot more than we have been. [It was] a lot more aggressive," coach Jerry Kill told reporters. "And we need that. We need more push. We had nine sacks last year, and that can't happen."
• Gray and top receiver Da'Jon McKnight hooked up on receptions of 45 and 20 yards. McKnight also recorded a punt block in the scrimmage.
• Reserve quarterback Tom Parish threw two interceptions and fumbled a snap. Moses Alipate ran a few series at quarterback and led a scoring drive.

NEBRASKA

The Huskers ran about 150 plays in a scrimmage Saturday in Lincoln. Quarterbacks Brion Carnes, Cody Green and Kody Spano took most of the reps and drew praise from coach Bo Pelini.

• The coaches limited reps for quarterback Taylor Martinez after the sophomore hurt his toe in a recent workout. Running back Rex Burkhead participated in the scrimmage and "looked great," according to Pelini, although Burkhead's reps were limited as well.
• Nebraska had two false-start penalties and one fumble during the scrimmage. "That's not bad," Pelini said. "Most of it is with the young guys. It shows me the emphasis is working and there's progress, but one's too many as far I'm concerned."

NORTHWESTERN

The Wildcats scrimmaged Saturday in Evanston in preparation for this week's spring game.

Notes

• Top running back Mike Trumpy had runs of 33 and 25 yards, while Tyris Jones added a scoring run. Jones has had a really nice spring for the Wildcats, who are looking for more options in the backfield.
• Trevor Siemian and Evan Watkins took the reps at quarterback as Kain Colter was held out of the scrimmage. Siemian completed 8 of 12 passes for 86 yards with an interception, while Watkins, victimized by dropped passes, completed 8 of 21 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown strike to Charles Brown.
• Defensive end Tyler Scott picked off Siemian on the second play of the scrimmage. Siemian later responded with a 36-yard pass to Rashad Lawrence. Demetrius Fields led the receivers with five receptions, while walk-on Torin Dupper had three catches for 46 yards.

OHIO STATE

The Buckeyes held a special-teams scrimmage followed by a full jersey scrimmage Saturday in Ohio Stadium. The team went through about 20 possessions and the offense prevailed 56-45.

• Receiver DeVier Posey recorded two touchdown receptions, a 33-yarder from Joe Bauserman and an 8-yarder from Taylor Graham. Freshman quarterback Braxton Miller had the only other touchdown of the scrimmage on an 11-yard run.
• Bauserman completed passes of 33 and 16 yards and also threw an interception on a pass tipped by defensive lineman John Simon. Graham completed 10 of 20 passes for 80 yards, while Miller hit on 4 of 6 passes for 43 yards and looked impressive on the touchdown run. Kenny Guiton struggled at quarterback, leading the offense to only one score (field goal) in six possessions.
• Posey recorded five receptions for 83 yards and two scores, while the other scholarship wideouts combined for only five receptions. Think Ohio State will miss No. 8 in the first five games?
• Senior running back Dan Herron didn't get much work Saturday, and Jaamal Berry and Rod Smith stood out among the backs with several nice gains.
• Defensive linemen Adam Bellamy and Melvin Fellows both recorded sacks, while other defensive standouts included cornerback Travis Howard and linebacker Etienne Sabino.

PENN STATE

The Lions scrimmaged Saturday, but there's not much info out there aside from this (must pay for content).

WISCONSIN

The Badgers held a scrimmage Saturday, running more than 120 snaps, and coach Bret Bielema shares his thoughts here.

• Sophomore linebacker Conor O'Neill had a big day with interceptions on back-to-back plays, picking off Joe Brennan and Joel Stave. Wisconsin auditioned O'Neill at safety last year, and his experience defending the pass is paying off.
• Bielema said center Peter Konz will miss the rest of the spring because of ankle and knee injuries. Konz will undergo minor knee surgery and should be fine for fall camp. Versatile sophomore Ryan Groy is seeing time at center and can play all three interior line spots.
• Remember Zach Brown? The running back is still around in Madison and hopes to enter a crowded backfield this fall. Brown had a 17-yard touchdown reception and an 8-yard scoring run Saturday. "Zach is an angry running back," Bielema told reporters. "Everybody wants to talk about those other guys. People forget he ran for 200 yards [in a game] as a freshman, and he has won some games for us."

The spring superlatives series, which examines the strongest and weakest position groups throughout the Big Ten, continues with Minnesota.

Strongest position: Linebackers

• Top returnees: Gary Tinsley (90 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble in 2010); Keanon Cooper (68 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 1 pass breakup); Mike Rallis (37 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions); Spencer Reeves (23 tackles, 2 tackles for loss)
• Key losses: None
• The skinny: Some might scratch their head at this selection, but Minnesota's struggles on defense last fall had more to do with a nonexistent pass rush than linebacker play. The Gophers return everyone at the linebacker spot and adds Brendan Beal, a transfer from Florida who sat out last season. Tinsley was the team's best defender last fall and could contend for All-Big Ten honors with a strong season in 2011. Rallis can be a difference maker if he stays healthy, as he showed with a team-leading three interceptions last season. Cooper also is healthier after playing last season with a bad back. Minnesota doesn't have a ton of options at a lot of positions, but linebacker is one of them.

Weakest position: Defensive end/pass rusher

• Top returnees: D.L. Wilhite (14 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack in 2010); Matt Garin (13 tackles (13 tackles, 1 tackle for loss)
• Key losses: Jewhan Edwards played DT but was Minnesota's top pass-rushing "threat," leading the team in both sacks (3) and tackles for loss (11) in 2010.
• The skinny: If Minnesota plans to surprise people this fall, it must improve the nation's worst pass rush. The Gophers should be OK on the interior line, but the defensive ends really need to upgrade their play after falling well short of expectations this past season. Wilhite displayed potential as a freshman but took a step back last year, and the high hopes for players like Ra'Shede Hageman never panned out. New defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys wants to be more aggressive and turn the defensive ends loose, which could be good news for the group. While Minnesota could have some issues on offense at receiver and along the line, the pass rush is a glaring weakness right now.

New coach Jerry Kill and the Minnesota Golden Gophers hit the practice field Thursday for the first of 15 spring workouts.

Here's a snapshot of the Gophers this spring:

The big story: A new era begins as Kill and his staff take control. Kill spoke candidly Wednesday about the need to change the culture at Minnesota and expressed concerns about the conditioning level and academic standing of some players he inherited. "We're going to identity those kids that can handle playing spring football and the grind of school right now," Kill said. "I have to have my tail end up here making sure guys are going to study hall, going to class and putting a thumb on them." The new staff also must install new systems on both sides of the ball: a potentially explosive offense featuring multiple formations and pre-snap movement, and a defense that will be more assertive than the previous scheme.

Position in the spotlight: Kill said all jobs are open, including quarterback, but Minnesota has to make significant upgrades along the defensive line. The group fell well short of expectations in 2010, as the Gophers finished last nationally in sacks with nine. Defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys plans to turn up the heat on opposing quarterbacks and needs players like Brandon Kirksey, Anthony Jacobs and D.L. Wilhite to step up their play. The linemen should respond well to Claeys, who is willing to turn them loose.

Coaching changes: Um, just a few. Kill brought several longtime assistants with him from Northern Illinois, including coordinators Claeys and Matt Limegrover. The only Tim Brewster assistant he retained, running backs coach Thomas Hammock, left for Wisconsin, and Kill promoted Brian Anderson, his tight ends coach the past three seasons at NIU.

Keep an eye on: Safety Kim Royston. After a strong performance in 2009, Royston broke his leg last spring and missed all of the 2010 season. He received a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA last month and has been medically cleared for the spring. Minnesota's defense is looking for leadership, and Royston is a guy who can provide some.

Spring game: April 23

Tracy Claeys hasn't spent much time watching tape or reviewing stats from Minnesota's 2010 season.

The Gophers' new defensive coordinator is focused on the future, and he wants his players to feel the same way.

"I don’t want to judge them on the past," Claeys said. "I'd like everybody to have a fresh start when we get going here."

But two Gophers' numbers from 2010 caught Claeys' eye. He couldn't ignore them.

• Minnesota's opponents converted 46.6 percent of their third-down opportunities last fall. The Gophers finished last in the Big Ten and 107th nationally in third-down defense.
• Minnesota recorded only nine sacks, last in the Big Ten and tied with New Mexico State for last nationally.

Claeys made it clear when he met with his new players: those two trends need to change immediately.

"I told the kids, ‘We’ve got to play better on third down and we’ve got to get the ball out of the quarterback’s hands quicker or get him sacked,'" Claeys said. "Those are the two things this spring that we’re really going to emphasize."

Claeys is the right coach to do the emphasizing. Often accused of being too aggressive, Claeys likes to turn his defensive linemen loose.

His defenses ranked 33rd, 34th and 32nd nationally in tackles for loss in his three seasons on Jerry Kill's staff at Northern Illinois. The Huskies also ranked 32nd nationally in third-down defense last season, allowing 36.8 percent conversions.

"I like to let the defensive line kids go and play and be aggressive," he said. "That’ll be a change."

Claeys doesn't inherit much as far as the pass rush.

Jewhan Edwards, who led Minnesota who only three sacks in 2010, is no longer with the program. The Gophers boast some veteran linemen such as Anthony Jacobs and Brandon Kirksey -- D.L. Wilhite also has a year of starting under his belt -- but the team has lacked a true pass-rusher since Willie VanDeSteeg in 2008.

Claeys' aggressive approach with the down linemen will require the linebackers to fit plays a little differently.

"I’m really big on trying to find out what kids do best and then put them in a position to do those things and try not to ask somebody to do things that they can’t do," he said. "That is what, to me, spring is all about. If we can come out of spring ball with our personnel and we know what they do well and what they struggle with, I’ll feel really good going into the fall."

We knew going into the season that Minnesota had to replace nine defensive starters, more than any other Big Ten squad.

Make it 10. And possibly all 11.

Safety Kyle Theret is suspended for Thursday night's opener at Middle Tennessee, head coach Tim Brewster announced Tuesday. Theret continues to serve a penalty for his drunken-driving arrest in March, although he practiced with the team in preseason camp. Veteran offensive lineman Dom Alford, a projected starter, also is suspended for an unspecified violation of team rules. Ed Olson will start in Alford's spot.

Minnesota really could use Theret, who led the team in interceptions (3) last year and recorded 73 tackles and seven passes defended. The team's only other returning starter on defense, safety Kim Royston, also could miss the game as he continues to rehab a broken leg suffered in spring practice.

Brewster said there's only "a small chance" Royston will play, adding, "I don't want to put him out there until I'm 100 percent certain that he's ready."

If Royston sits, Minnesota will take the field with 11 new starters on defense. Good thing Middle Tennessee will be without star quarterback Dwight Dasher, suspended for the game.

Get to know names like Christyn Lewis, James Manuel, D.L. Wilhite, Mike Rallis and Michael Carter. They're just some of the new starters Minnesota needs to step up Thursday night against the Blue Raiders.

Let's take a look at three issues facing each Big Ten team heading into spring practice:

ILLINOIS

Spring practice starts: March 30

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• The quarterback competition. Four-year starter Juice Williams departs, and a host of young players (and one older one) are in the mix to replace him. New offensive coordinator Paul Petrino wants to shape his system around the starting signal-caller, so he'll be looking for some separation this spring. Jacob Charest got valuable playing time behind Williams in 2009, and Eddie McGee, a part-time wide receiver, has extensive playing experience at quarterback. They'll compete with redshirt freshman Nathan Scheelhaase and true freshman Chandler Whitmer, an early enrollee.
• Fixing the defense. New defensive coordinator Vic Koenning brings an impressive résumé to Champaign, but he'll be challenged to fix a unit that hasn't been right since J Leman and Co. left following the Rose Bowl run in 2007. Koenning wants to identify leaders on defense this spring and will look to players like end Clay Nurse and linebackers Ian Thomas and Martez Wilson. Illinois' most pressing needs likely come in the secondary after the team finished 100th nationally against the pass in 2009.
• Line dance. Illinois needs to get tougher and better on both lines to turn things around in 2010. The Illini tied for eighth in the Big Ten in sacks allowed last fall, and while the run game got going late, top lineman Jon Asamoah departs. Perhaps a bigger priority is finding a pass rush on defense after finishing last in the league in both sacks and tackles for loss in 2009.

INDIANA

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Rebuilding the back seven on D. Indiana loses three starters in the secondary and two linebackers, including blog favorite Matt Mayberry. The Hoosiers brought in three junior college defenders, two of whom, linebacker Jeff Thomas and cornerback Lenyatta Kiles, will participate in spring practice. Needless to say, jobs are open everywhere, and coordinators Brian George and Joe Palcic will be looking for playmakers to step up. Several players are moving from offense to defense, including wideout Mitchell Evans to safety.
• End game. Indiana loses a lot of pass-rushing production as multiyear starters Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton depart. Both starting jobs at defensive end are open this spring, and IU will look to Darius Johnson, Terrance Thomas and others to step up and make plays.
• Willis watch. Indiana hopes 2010 is the year when running back Darius Willis becomes a superstar. Getting him through spring practice healthy will be a key first step. Willis has been impressive on the field, but he has struggled with injuries for much of his career. IU's passing attack should be very strong in 2010, and if Willis can elevate the run game, the Hoosiers should put up a ton of points.

IOWA

Spring practice starts: March 24

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• The offensive line. Rebuilding the offensive line is far and away Iowa's top priority heading into the 2010 season. The Hawkeyes are stacked at running back and boast a strong passing attack, but they'll struggle if things aren't solidified up front. Tackle/guard Riley Reiff blossomed last season and guard Julian Vandervelde also returns, but Iowa will look to fill three starting spots this spring.
• Refilling at linebacker and cornerback. Iowa's defense has been one of the nation's most opportunistic units the last two seasons, and players like Pat Angerer, A.J. Edds and Amari Spievey were three big reasons why. All three depart, so Iowa needs to reload at linebacker and find a shut-down corner (Shaun Prater?). The spotlight will be on guys like Prater, Tyler Nielsen and Jeff Tarpinian this spring.
• Sorting out the running back spot. Iowa is absolutely loaded at running back, but there's only one ball to be carried on a given play. The Hawkeyes likely will use a rotation in 2010, but who will be the featured back? Jewel Hampton will try to reclaim the top spot, which he lost because of a knee injury last summer. Adam Robinson filled in extremely well for Hampton in the lead role, and Brandon Wegher was one of the heroes of the Orange Bowl win.

MICHIGAN

Spring practice starts: March 14

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Defense, defense, defense. Head coach Rich Rodriguez always will be known for his spread offense, but he won't be around much longer at Michigan if the defense doesn't significantly improve. A unit that ranked 82nd nationally last season loses its two best players (Brandon Graham and Donovan Warren) and must find contributors at linebacker, safety and cornerback. Help is on the way from the 2010 recruiting class, but Michigan can't afford a bad spring on defense.
• Devin Gardner. The heralded quarterback recruit enrolled early and will enter the mix this spring. Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson are the front-runners at quarterback, but Gardner might be the ultimate answer for the Wolverines. His ability to pick up the system and push Forcier and Robinson this spring will determine whether he sees the field in the fall or takes a redshirt.
• Running back. Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor depart, but Michigan once again should be good at the running back spot. Vincent Smith will miss spring ball as he recovers from knee surgery, but several others, including Michael Shaw and Fitzgerald Toussaint, will be competing throughout the 15 workouts. Shaw, who scored two touchdowns on 42 carries in 2009, could create a bit of separation with a good spring.

MICHIGAN STATE

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Team morale. The residence hall incident and the subsequent fallout really rocked the Michigan State program. Head coach Mark Dantonio has yet to address the status of several suspended players, and the final outcome could impact the depth chart, particularly at wide receiver. It's important for Michigan State's team leaders -- Greg Jones, Kirk Cousins and others -- to unite the locker room in the spring and do all they can to prevent further problems.
• Line dance. Michigan State needs to improve on both the offensive and defensive lines in 2010, and it all starts this spring. The Spartans must replace left tackle Rocco Cironi and center Joel Nitchman, and they also lose top pass-rusher Trevor Anderson at defensive end. As strong as the Spartans should be at the skill positions, they need to start building around linemen like Joel Foreman and Jerel Worthy.
• Keith Nichol. The versatile junior could be moved to wide receiver, but he'll get a chance to push Cousins at quarterback this spring. Nichol's skills are too valuable to waste on the sideline, particularly if Michigan State has a pressing need at receiver, but he still could be a factor at quarterback if his improves his accuracy. The speedy Nichol could run the Wildcat in addition to serving as a wide receiver, if MSU chooses to go that route.

MINNESOTA

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• The coordinator and the quarterbacks. Minnesota will welcome its third offensive coordinator in as many seasons, though Jeff Horton doesn't plan to overhaul the system like Jedd Fisch did a year ago. Horton's primary task will be developing quarterbacks Adam Weber and MarQueis Gray, who both struggled last fall in the pro-style system. Weber has the edge in experience, but he needs to regain the form his showed in his first two seasons as the starter. Gray brings tremendous athleticism to the table but must prove he can succeed in a pro-style offense.
• The offensive line. Head coach Tim Brewster has insisted that when Minnesota gets the offensive line on track, things really will get rolling. The Gophers need better players and arguably tougher players up front, and the line should benefit in Year 2 under assistant Tim Davis. The group should be motivated by finishing last in the Big Ten in rushing in each of the past two seasons.
• Young defenders. Minnesota loses most of its starting defense from 2009, but fans are more excited about the young talent returning on that side of the ball. Spring ball could be huge for players like Michael Carter, D.L. Wilhite and Keanon Cooper as they transition into leading roles. The Gophers' biggest losses come at linebacker, as all three starters depart.

NORTHWESTERN

Spring practice starts: March 29

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Identify a running back. The Wildcats produced an impressive string of standout running backs under former coach Randy Walker and at the beginning of Pat Fitzgerald’s tenure, but they struggled in the backfield in 2009. Northwestern returns the Big Ten’s most experienced offensive line, so identifying a primary ball carrier or two this spring is vital. Arby Fields and Scott Concannon showed a few flashes last year but must get more consistent, while Mike Trumpy will be an interesting addition to the mix.
• Polishing Persa. Dan Persa steps in at quarterback for second-team All-Big Ten selection Mike Kafka, and he’ll try to walk a similar career path. Kafka transformed himself in the offseason a year ago to become an extremely consistent passer, and Persa will need to do the same. Persa could be the best running quarterback Northwestern has had since Zak Kustok, but his size and the nature of the offense suggests he’ll need to make strides with his arm. NU also needs to see progress from backup Evan Watkins, as it lacks overall depth at quarterback.
• Reload in the secondary. Northwestern loses three starters in the secondary, including all-conference selections Sherrick McManis and Brad Phillips. Fitzgerald will lean heavily on cornerback Jordan Mabin and safety Brian Peters to lead the group, but he needs a few more players to emerge this spring. Defensive backs like Justan Vaughn have experience and must transition into featured roles.

OHIO STATE

Spring practice starts: April 1

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Running back competition resumes. Brandon Saine and Dan Herron finished strong in 2009, but they can’t get too comfortable. Several young running backs, including Jordan Hall, Jaamal Berry, Jermil Martin and Carlos Hyde, will be competing for carries this spring. Saine likely has the best chance to lock down a featured role at running back, but if the hype about Berry pans out, it’ll be a dogfight.
• Pryor’s evolution. After Ohio State’s victory in the Rose Bowl, both Terrelle Pryor and Jim Tressel talked about the game being a key juncture in Pryor’s development. The junior quarterback must build on his performance this spring, especially from a passing standpoint. Ohio State can be a more balanced and more effective offense in 2010, but Pryor needs to keep making strides.
• Safety squeeze. The Buckeyes didn’t lose much from the 2009 team, but the safety spot took a hit as first-team All-Big Ten selection Kurt Coleman as well as key contributor Anderson Russell depart. Jermale Hines looks like the answer at one spot, and he’ll enter the spring with high expectations. Ohio State needs to build around Hines and identify playmakers for an increasingly opportunistic unit.

PENN STATE

Spring practice starts: March 26

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback. No surprise here, as Penn State’s quarterback competition will be one of the Big Ten’s top storylines until September. Two-year starter Daryll Clark departs, leaving a major void under center. Sophomore Kevin Newsome played a bit last fall and has been in the system for a full season. He’ll enter the spring with a slight edge, but Matt McGloin and early enrollee Paul Jones also will be in the mix before Robert Bolden arrives this summer.
• Getting better up front. All-America candidate Stefen Wisniewski leads an offensive line that will have more experience and needs to make strides this spring. The line struggled against elite defensive fronts last year (Iowa, Ohio State) but should have more cohesion after another offseason together. The tackle spots will be interesting to watch, as Dennis Landolt departs. Penn State’s defensive line needs to shore up the middle after losing Big Ten co-Defensive Player of the Year Jared Odrick.
• Linebacker U. put to the test. Penn State has a proven track record of reloading in the defensive front seven, but it loses a lot of production, especially at linebacker. All three starting spots are open this spring, and the spotlight will turn to players like Nate Stupar, Bani Gbadyu, Chris Colasanti and others to fill the production and leadership gaps left by Sean Lee, Navorro Bowman and Josh Hull.

PURDUE

Spring practice starts: March 24

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Marve watch begins. The starting quarterback job is open, and all eyes will be on Miami transfer Robert Marve. One of the nation's most decorated recruits in 2007, Marve started for the Hurricanes in 2008 but ran into problems and transferred. Slowed by an ACL injury last summer and fall, Marve will have every chance to establish himself this spring as he competes with Caleb TerBush.
• Wide-open secondary. All four starters depart in the secondary, creating plenty of competition back there this spring. Players like safety Albert Evans and cornerback Charlton Williams will be in the spotlight as they try to nail down jobs. Purdue should be better in the front seven in 2010, but you can bet opposing quarterbacks will attack an unproven secondary.
• The run defense. It's a huge priority for Purdue to improve against the run after finishing last in the Big Ten in rush defense in each of the past two seasons. Linebacker Jason Werner's return for a sixth year is huge, and Purdue boasts one of the Big Ten's top D-linemen in Ryan Kerrigan. Those two must provide leadership and foster more cohesion from the younger players around them. New D-line coach Gary Emanuel will be instrumental in the process this spring.

WISCONSIN

Spring practice starts: March 13 (break from March 29-April 2)

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• The secondary. Wisconsin looks pretty solid on the defensive line and at linebacker, so getting the secondary up to par will be key this spring. Safety Jay Valai is a vicious hitter, but can he become an All-Big Ten-caliber safety? Aaron Henry joins Valai at safety after struggling at cornerback in 2009. Wisconsin also will look for continued progress from corners Devin Smith and Niles Brinkley.
• Replacing Schofield. Bret Bielema told me earlier this week that the competition at defensive line is once again heating up this offseason. Wisconsin must replace first-team All-Big Ten end O'Brien Schofield, who ranked second nationally in tackles for loss (24.5) in 2009. J.J. Watt has superstar written all over him, but Wisconsin will look for more pass-rush ability from David Gilbert and Louis Nzegwu.
• The wide receivers/tight ends. Wisconsin showed at times last fall that its passing attack could be dynamic, and it will look for big things from several players this spring. Wideout Nick Toon certainly has what it takes to be a star in the Big Ten, and Lance Kendricks showed in the Champs Sports Bowl that he's a capable successor for Garrett Graham at tight end. The Badgers will look to David Gilreath, Isaac Anderson and Kyle Jefferson to fill the No. 2 wideout spot.

We're about to get started here in Columbus. Here's what has happened so far in the Big Ten today.

Penn State 31, Indiana 20: Penn State gave Indiana a great opportunity to take control of this game with four first-half turnovers. When the Hoosiers couldn't capitalize, the Lions didn't give them a second chance. Penn State scored 24 unanswered points as running back Evan Royster got going and the defense held IU quarterback Ben Chappell in check for most of the second half. Daryll Clark didn't have a great game by any means, but he avoided mistakes in the second half and moved Penn State closer to the 10-win plateau. Linebacker Navorro Bowman made the play of the day when he intercepted a Chappell pass and raced 73 yards to the end zone. It has been a season of near misses for Indiana, which can't generate a consistent rushing attack.

Wisconsin 45, Michigan 24: Scott Tolzien became the latest quarterback to completely pick apart Michigan's secondary, as Wisconsin came in with an excellent offensive game plan today. Tolzien fired four touchdown passes as wide receiver Nick Toon and Isaac Anderson and tight end Garrett Graham all had big games. Badgers running back John Clay once again went over the 100-yard rushing mark (151, to be exact) as Wisconsin eclipsed its victories total from last season. Michigan backslid in the second half for the third straight week, as the run game never truly got going. Tate Forcier had arguably his best game at quarterback for the Wolverines, but he can only do so much. Greg Robinson's defense is a disaster, and Michigan's bowl hopes could be finished after a 4-0 start.

Michigan State 40, Purdue 37: The Spartans received big plays in all three phases during a wild second half as they held off Purdue to get bowl eligible. Special teams was huge down the stretch as Michigan State blocked a long field goal attempt, received another huge kickoff return from Keshawn Martin and drilled the game-winning field goal with 1:51 left. Quarterback Kirk Cousins didn't have his typical accuracy, but he hit on several huge pass plays, three for touchdowns. Purdue's desperate run for a bowl game ends despite another huge performance from quarterback Joey Elliott, an All-Big Ten candidate. Wideout Keith Smith and running back Ralph Bolden came up big, but the Boilers defense couldn't stop the big play.

Northwestern 21, Illinois 16: Illinois made this one interesting with a furious fourth-quarter rally behind backup quarterback Jacob Charest, who struggled for the first 50 minutes or so. After a sloppy first half, Northwestern took control with a 7-play, 99-yard scoring drive in the third quarter. Mike Kafka finally hit on a big pass play to Andrew Brewer (52 yards), and the run game started to show up with freshman Arby Fields. Kafka passed for 300 yards and Zeke Markshausen continued his surprise season at wide receiver. The game wasn't without controversy, as replay officials didn't overturn a fourth-down interception that sealed the win for Northwestern, which secures back-to-back bowl berths for the second time in team history. Illinois inexplicably will miss a bowl for the second straight season.

Minnesota 16, South Dakota State 13: The Golden Gophers are bowl eligible, but they didn't make it easy on themselves. Minnesota rode great defense to hold off South Dakota State and notch victory No. 6. Junior quarterback Adam Weber continued to struggle, completing 10 of 21 passes with a pick-six in the second quarter as the Minnesota offense piled up only 231 yards. But the Gophers defense forced four turnovers, including a fumble recovered for a touchdown by D.L. Wilhite. A huge sigh of relief for Tim Brewster, who now tries to win his first trophy game next week at Iowa.



Penn State held off Indiana's upset bid, 31-20.

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

MINNEAPOLIS -- There's a noticeable buzz around Minnesota football right now, with a new on-campus stadium opening this fall and plenty on the agenda for spring practice, which began Tuesday. The Gophers welcome new coordinators on both sides of the ball and a new offensive system, which will look more what fans are used to in the Twin Cities.

	Jeff Gross/Getty Images
	Minnesota coach Tim Brewster is excited about the depth he has coming back this season.

Head coach Tim Brewster saw the team improve its record by six games last fall, but the Gophers ended on a five-game slide, including a 55-0 thrashing at the hands of archrival Iowa. With 10 offensive starters back and several playmakers on the defensive side, Minnesota hopes to take another step forward this fall, but will negotiate what appears to be a much tougher schedule. Here are Brewster's thoughts on the squad as spring ball gets under way.

It seems pretty ambitious what you guys are doing this spring, with the new guys, the scheme tweaks and changes. Is it one of the more ambitious spring practice sessions you've been a part of?

Tim Brewster: I just don't think it's quite as ambitious as you think. We installed quite a bit of the offense before the bowl game. To me, what's exciting about where we're at is we've got some depth, we've got some experienced players, but more importantly, some really talented players coming back. And then when you add to the mix guys like [linebackers] Keanon Cooper, Spencer Reeves and Gary Tinsley, some of these guys particularly on defense, that's really an exciting thing for us.

You said you wouldn't trade [quarterback] Adam [Weber] for anybody in the country. You also think highly of MarQueis Gray. Do you envision MarQueis just sitting and waiting the next two years?

TB: No, no. We're going to incorporate MarQueis into every game. We'll go in with a plan on how we're going to utilize him. I brought [Texas offensive coordinator] Greg Davis up here from Texas, and I talked to Greg about how they incorporated Vince [Young] into the game plan in Vince's redshirt freshman year. He played every game, but what was the real thought process that went into it. We really had some good conversations on how to do that. It's a tough thing because of the flow of the game. You say, 'I want him to play the third series.' Well, something may dictate that the third series, you want to keep Adam in the game. But he'll make a contribution. Heck, MarQueis could play wide receiver. MarQueis could be a running back. There's a lot of different ways to utilize a player of his ability.

Does it help to have that reference point with Vince Young?

TB: Very strong similarities between the two. But the biggest challenge is this: We've been really lucky. Adam Weber's taken every snap. At some point, injuries happen. Is MarQueis Gray ready to step in and drive this car and run this offense? That's the biggest challenge that [new offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch] has, making sure MarQueis Gray is ready to be a full-time quarterback. He's the No. 2 quarterback at worst right now, so that's a real challenge.

It seems like line play is going to be a focus on both sides of the ball.

TB: Yes, and I think we're going to be much better up front. It really helped moving [left tackle] Dom Alford inside. Ryan Wynn is a very talented guy who was playing right tackle. He doesn't need to be a right tackle. He'll play at center, possibly at guard. Matt Carufel, also [at guard]. And then you look at the development of [left tackle Matt] Stommes. Stommes' measurables, shoot, the NFL people who have come in here have said, 'Who the heck is that?' It's kind of like the guy's come out of nowhere. And [right tackle Jeff] Wills' development is going to be big. Is he putting himself in a position where he can be a starter?

Some people would look to the secondary and say look what you guys did there last year, but it sounds like you're almost more excited about the D-line and the linebackers.

TB: I really am. The front seven for us has got a chance to be really good. I think we'll be good on the back end, too. We're just a little thin. A kid like [cornerback] Michael Carter coming in, Michael's going to have to play as a freshman. And we've got some other guys. Today it's so hard to find defensive linemen, and particularly the young inside guys, Jewhan Edwards and Brandon Kirksey, they've got a chance to be really good. And then you've got [Eric] Small and [Garrett] Brown. So we've got four inside guys. And then I think we'll be better on the edge. D.L. Wilhite's a kid who redshirted last year and has got really good speed. And with [Cedric] McKinley, [Derek] Onwuachi, we've got some guys there.

The spring gives you a chance to find some playmakers, too, especially with Weber limited and Eric Decker playing baseball.

TB: Eric Decker's going to be ready to play. What I'm concerned about is somebody else being ready. That's how you've got to look at it, a positive thing and not a negative thing.

You mentioned last year's team was significantly improved. Is that the same goal for 2009?

TB: This year, we want to make the same improvement, but it's a tougher step, a much tougher step, particularly with a much tougher schedule.