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Miami and Ohio State on Jan. 3, 2003 provided one of the most exciting and talked-about games in recent college football history. Ohio State's double-overtime victory in the Fiesta Bowl secured a national title and marked the beginning of a surge under The Vest (Jim Tressel). It also signaled the end of Miami's amazing run of success. The teams reunite Saturday in Columbus (ESPN, 3:40 p.m. ET), as Ohio State continues its push for the national title and Miami aims for another signature win to prove that yes, The U is back.

Bloggers Adam Rittenberg and Heather Dinich break down the matchup in Columbus.

Adam Rittenberg: HD, always a pleasure. Tough first weekend for the so-close league, I mean the ACC. Both Ohio State and Miami looked impressive against weak competition Thursday night. We've got to start this off with the two quarterbacks, Terrelle Pryor and Jacory Harris. Both are Heisman Trophy candidates in my mind, and they're friends off the field who text each other from time to time. What are the big keys for Harris against an always stout Ohio State defense?

Heather Dinich: Ahh, Ritt, the pleasure is all yours. First, he has to get the protection he needs -- something he hasn't always had, but that appeared to improve in the season opener against Florida A&M. Second, Harris has to continue to play mistake-free like he did in the first half last week. Turnovers were a big issue for him last year -- 17 interceptions -- and Cameron Heyward and the rest of the Buckeyes' D are more than capable of getting him flustered. He’s got to stay on his feet and make smart decisions. What about Pryor? Miami's rushing defense is coming off its best performance in three years, with eight sacks against FAMU. Is Ohio State’s front ready to hold off the Canes and make Pryor look worthy of the Heisman Hype?

AR: Pryor looked much more comfortable with the offense in the opener, but he faced virtually no pressure from Marshall and could sit back and wait for wideouts Dane Sanzenbacher and DeVier Posey to get open. That should change against the Canes, and it'll be interesting to see how often Pryor takes off and runs -- his old method for dealing with pressure -- or stands in the pocket and makes a tough throw. Ohio State's offensive line finally seems to be coming together after several years of underachieving. It's a group filled with blue-chip recruits that boasts good experience now, especially at the guard spots with Justin Boren and Bryant Browning. A big key will be whether left tackle Mike Adams can protect Pryor's blind side.

Speaking of highly recruited offensive linemen and Ohio State, how is our pal Seantrel Henderson doing? Let's just say Buckeye Nation is waiting. Moreover, how do you see Miami's O-line matching up with Heyward, John Simon and Ohio State's front four?

HD: Miami’s pass protection was pretty good against FAMU, giving up just one sack, and Mount Henderson got some snaps in which he swallowed up some smaller, less athletic players. He's still got a learning curve, though, and the truth is it's too hard to judge that group until it lines up against the Buckeyes. Some might have made too much of the power versus speed plotline in the Champs Sports Bowl against Wisconsin, but I’m wondering if that won’t be a factor with Ohio State’s defensive front in putting the pressure on Harris. The Buckeyes' run defense is solid, but can they stop this deep backfield with or without Graig Cooper?

AR: Heather, I'm glad you brought up the Champs Sports Bowl. I know this is a different and supposedly better Miami team, but I have a hard time forgetting how Wisconsin outclassed the Canes in that game, and would have won by more points if not for a Garrett Graham fumble near the goal line. If Wisconsin's defense makes Harris look like that, I can't imagine what Ohio State's will do to him. You also bring up a good point about Cooper, who missed most of the Wisconsin game. He's a tremendous athlete and could be a big factor on Saturday if he plays. Ohio State running back Brandon Saine is another guy who looks better and better as time goes on and had a great performance in the opener.

OK, you're on the spot. What happens in this one?

HD: Well, one of two things: A.) Miami wins and is an instant surprise contender for the national title, or B.) The Hurricanes lose and ACC fans flip the channel to the Florida State game, clinging to desperation that somebody can represent on the national level. I think Miami is good, but I don’t think they're ready for Ohio State -- especially not in the Shoe. I'm still in believe-it-when-I-see-it mode with these guys when it comes to national relevance. Can they win the ACC? No doubt. But the Canes need to win the Coastal before they're in the same realm as the Buckeyes. Do you see any upset in the making?

AR: Miami certainly has the talent to win this game. The Canes must win the turnover battle, force Pryor into some bad decisions and hold the edge on special teams, which surprisingly might be Ohio State's biggest weakness this year. While I forecast a great game, I don't see the upset. Ohio State is simply too strong up front on both sides of the ball and wins the battle at the line of scrimmage. Ohio State got over its big-game hump in the Rose Bowl against Oregon, and the Buckeyes aren't a slow Big Ten team, as they're often portrayed. The Buckeyes win this one by a touchdown.

Schedule: Bret Bielema and the Badgers hold their first preseason practice at 3:35 p.m. ET today at Camp Randall Stadium.

What's new: Not much in terms of personnel, as Wisconsin returns 16 starters, including 10 on offense and its entire offensive line. Bielema hired a new secondary coach in Chris Ash, who joins the staff after spending eight of the past 10 seasons at Iowa State. Wisconsin also welcomes Greg Jackson as nickel backs and assistant linebackers coach. Bielema oversaw special teams the past three seasons, but now will assign the units to four assistants.

Sidelined: Backup quarterback Curt Phillips is out until at least October following ACL surgery on his right knee. Running back John Clay (ankle), offensive lineman Peter Konz (lungs) and linebackers Mike Taylor (knee) and Chris Borland (shoulder), all are cleared for the start of practice.

Key battle: Look toward the defensive line. Wisconsin loses both of its starting defensive tackles in Jeff Stehle and Dan Moore, and will be looking for several young players to step up. Junior Patrick Butrym started two games last fall and is a strong possibility for one of the top spots, but Jordan Kohout, Eriks Briedis, Ethan Hemer and others are in the mix for playing time. J.J. Watt has locked up a starting defensive end spot, but Louis Nzegwu and David Gilbert continue to compete on the other side.

New on the scene: The Badgers need to upgrade their special teams play in 2010, which creates opportunities for incoming freshmen to see the field right away. Keep an eye on players like Beau Allen, Frank Tamakloe, Peniel Jean and Cameron Ontko. True freshmen are more likely to see the field on defense than offense this fall.

Back in the fold: Taylor started the first seven games last fall at linebacker and was leading the team in tackles before tearing his ACL against Iowa. The redshirt sophomore returns in practice and should form a dynamic young linebacker tandem with Borland, the reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year.

Breaking out: Lance Kendricks put Badgers fans at ease about the loss of Garrett Graham with a career-best performance in Wisconsin's Champs Sports Bowl win against Miami. Kendricks steps into a featured role after recording 29 receptions for 356 receiving yards. Watt also should have a huge season at defensive end. Overshadowed by O'Brien Schofield last fall, Watt recorded 15.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks last fall.

Quotable: "I do like the fact that our kids, the majority of our players that are going to be significant players in this year's senior class, all went through the scars of [the 2008] season themselves, in addition to myself and several of my coaching staff. So we'll make note of any mistakes that were made that year. But again, the 2010 season is based on the individuals that are in that room." -- head coach Bret Bielema

Spring practice is in the books, and I'll be taking a look back at each Big Ten team's spring session today. First up, Wisconsin.

2009 overall record: 10-3

2009 conference record: 5-3, T-4th

Returning starters

Offense: 10, defense: 6, punter/kicker: 2

Top returners

RB John Clay, QB Scott Tolzien, LT Gabe Carimi, G/C John Moffitt, WR Nick Toon, DE J.J. Watt, LB Chris Borland, SS Jay Valai

Key losses

TE Garrett Graham, DE O'Brien Schofield, LB Jaevery McFadden, FS Chris Maragos

2009 statistical leaders (*-returners)

Rushing: John Clay* (1,517 yards)

Passing: Scott Tolzien* (2,705 yards)

Receiving: Nick Toon* (805 yards)

Tackles: Jaevery McFadden (74)

Sacks: O'Brien Schofield (12)

Interceptions: Chris Maragos (4)

Spring answers

1. Defensive line should be fine: Wisconsin appears to have the pieces to survive the losses of O'Brien Schofield, a first-team All-Big Ten performer, as well as tackles Dan Moore and Jeff Stehle. J.J. Watt could be a superstar at end, and Louis Nzegwu stepped up nicely this spring at the other spot. Patrick Butrym and Jordan Kohout will occupy the starting tackle spots, and if the Badgers can build a bit more depth inside this summer, they should be very solid.

2. Kendricks transitions seamlessly: First-team All-Big Ten tight end Garrett Graham departs, but Wisconsin once again shouldn't miss a bit as Lance Kendricks moves into a starting role. Kendricks turned in a career performance at the Champs Sports Bowl and followed with a solid spring, recording six receptions for 63 yards in the spring game April 17.

3. Secondary coming together: After a slow start to the spring, the defensive backs finished strong, as Antonio Fenelus and others stepped up in the spring game. Chris Maragos was a great leader and leaves a void, but Jay Valai and converted cornerback Aaron Henry seem to complement each other well at the safety spots. There's good depth at cornerback as starters Devin Smith and Niles Brinkley return and Fenelus provides some depth.

Fall questions

1. Key players returning from injuries: It was tough to grade Wisconsin's spring because so many key players sat out with injuries. Star running back Clay needs a strong preseason camp after undergoing two ankle surgeries during the winter to relieve pressure. Starting linebackers Chris Borland and Mike Taylor also will be back from injuries, and the offensive line gets a chance to come together after missing several pieces this spring.

2. Backup quarterback: Curt Phillips' torn ACL was the biggest blow of spring ball, and his uncertain return puts redshirt freshman Jon Budmayr in the spotlight. Budmayr struggled in spring scrimmages and needs to elevate his game to be a reliable option behind Tolzien. Tolzien has been both durable and reliable, but Wisconsin needs the talented Budmayr to take a step forward this summer.

3. More options at wideout: Toon should contend for All-Big Ten honors this fall, but Wisconsin needs other wideouts to develop around him. David Gilreath, Isaac Anderson and Kyle Jefferson all have plenty of experience but must be more consistent. Redshirt freshman walk-on Jared Abbrederis made a big splash this spring and could work his way into the mix if he keeps it up.

Thanks to me, the federal government and the state of Illinois become richer today.

• More on the proposed Northwestern-Illinois game at Wrigley Field this fall from the Chicago Tribune's Teddy Greenstein.
• Rich Rodriguez is a polarizing figure, and the Detroit Free Press' Jamie Samuelsen breaks down the three schools of thought regarding the Michigan coach. The NCAA's look into West Virginia's program could mean more trouble for RichRod, annarbor.com's Michael Rothstein writes. The Sporting News' experts say it still comes down to wins and losses for Rodriguez.
• Penn State reserve wideout Christian Kuntz doesn't need knee surgery, but he'll miss the rest of spring ball, Bob Flounders writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News.
• Ohio State wide receiver Chris Fields is making some noise this spring, John Kampf writes in The News-Herald.
• An interesting look at the trend of early enrollees in the Big Ten, something Joe Paterno dislikes but agrees to, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Iowa fought injuries at running back last season and hopes for improved health at the position before September, Andy Hamilton writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen.
• After a shaky performance in Saturday's scrimmage, Wisconsin backup quarterback Jon Budmayr was eager to learn from his mistakes, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The Badgers' tight ends are catching up this spring as the team tries to replace Garrett Graham and Mickey Turner, Jim Polzin writes in The Capital Times. Coach Bret Bielema confirms that reserve quarterback Curt Phillips underwent knee surgery.
• Quarterback recruit Connor Cook fits what Michigan State is looking for under center, Matt Dorsey writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Illinois' Eddie McGee talks about focusing full time on wide receiver, Bob Asmussen writes in The (Champaign) News-Gazette.

It's hardly unusual for a Wisconsin tight end to post a stat line like the one Lance Kendricks had in the 2009 Champs Sports Bowl: seven catches, 128 receiving yards, receptions of 24 yards and 37 yards.

Garrett Graham had days like that. So did Travis Beckum. And Owen Daniels. The list goes on.

What seemed unusual about the bowl was that Kendricks was the one who ended up with the big numbers. After all, Graham had been Wisconsin's top tight end all season, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors. Kendricks had been a solid No. 2 option last season, but entered the bowl with 22 catches for 228 yards.

Not surprisingly, he recorded career bests for receptions, yards and longest reception.

Miami defenders certainly didn't expect the ball to keep going Kendricks' way. Same goes for the TV broadcasters and pretty much everyone watching the game.

Perhaps the only folks not surprised were Kendricks' coaches and teammates.

"More than anything, what that game did was it gave insight to other people," Badgers offensive coordinator Paul Chryst said. "I don't know if there's anything Lance did that any of the guys around here were like, 'Wow, where'd that come from?' It just happened to work out that way.

"Lance has been on a steady progression, and I hope he continues to go that way."

Kendricks knew he'd be stepping into a featured role at tight end in 2010 regardless of what happened in the bowl game. Graham and Mickey Turner were moving on, and Kendricks boasted by far the most experience on the roster.

If anything, the bowl gave Kendricks a taste of things to come.

"It definitely helped my confidence," he said. "I felt like I had a lot of fun, which made me more confident. I had a lot of family there, and a lot of people came up to me and talked to me. It was a good feeling to go out there and play well."

Kendricks will take on an enhanced role in 2010, and at 6-4 and 239 pounds, the senior passes the eye test. An ESPNU 150 selection in 2006, Kendricks headlined Wisconsin's recruiting class and was rated as the nation's 16th best wide receiver.

The Milwaukee native had some good options to play receiver -- LSU and Notre Dame were among his suitors -- but stayed in his home state for college. When Wisconsin moved Beckum, an athletic freak recruited as a linebacker, to tight end, Kendricks had a good idea he'd be next.

"I could see where he was going," Kendricks recalled, "and then [the coaches] were looking toward me. I was like, 'Oh, man.' But I wasn't disappointed at all. It was a nice transition for me."

Wisconsin is one of the few college programs left where a move from wide receiver to tight end is a step up in status. Kendricks' skills as a pass receiver were strong, but he needed to improve as a blocker and got plenty of chances to do so in a reserve role the last three years.

After working alongside Beckum, Turner and Graham, Kendricks is ready to continue the Badgers' tight end tradition.

"Certainly things have changed," Chryst said. "His role is going to change a little bit, more to what it was like in the bowl game. So in that way, it gave him a taste of what it's like."

MADISON, Wis. -- Wisconsin hopes to unlock the gate that leads to a Big Ten championship in 2010.

Badgers head coach Bret Bielema already knows the right combination.

"If 84, 32 and 1 play well," Bielema said, "we play well."

Those numbers correspond to the jerseys worn by tight end Lance Kendricks, running back John Clay and wide receiver Nick Toon, respectively. Coaches are always looking for factors that correlate to success, and Bielema has found it with those three.

When Clay rushed for 120 yards or more in 2009, Wisconsin went 8-0. When he had multiple rushing touchdowns, the Badgers went 5-0. He was held to fewer than 100 rushing yards just twice in Big Ten play, and Wisconsin lost both of those games (Ohio State, Iowa).

When Toon had four or more receptions, Wisconsin went 7-1. When he had 55 or more receiving yards, the Badgers went 6-1. Toon had a quiet performance in a loss to Iowa and didn't do much against Ohio State aside from a 33-yard reception.

Kendricks had his best statistical performance -- seven receptions, 128 receiving yards -- in Wisconsin's biggest victory, against Miami in the Champs Sports Bowl. Wisconsin also went 6-0 in games where he caught a pass longer than 10 yards.

Bielema adds Scott Tolzien (#16) to the mix, knowing that without good quarterback play, it's tough for skill players to be at their best.

"Scotty's going to be the guy that makes it all go together," Bielema said, "but those three guys have to control the areas of their stage. Then we'll have a good chance. If they don't play well, we don't play well, especially in the run game."

Clay won Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year in 2009 and should be a fringe Heisman Trophy candidate entering the fall. Toon will contend for All-Big Ten honors, while Kendricks steps into to the featured tight end/H-back spot held by Garrett Graham the last two years and All-American Travis Beckum before that.

Wisconsin boasts the Big Ten's deepest offensive line and the type of quarterback in Tolzien that Badgers fans have waited for. If Clay, Kendricks and Toon take another step, not only with the ball in their hands but as blockers, Wisconsin should have little trouble moving the ball and putting up points.

"Guys want to get on the field, and then they realize when you're on the field, there's responsibility to being on the field," offensive coordinator Paul Chryst said. "And then guys want to be the go-to guy. So I think Scotty, John, Lance, Nick, any of those guys, have also learned how to deal with that, being good all the time.

"And certainly none of us are there yet."

The superlatives series marches on as we take a look at the strongest and weakest positions for the Wisconsin Badgers in 2010.

Wisconsin doesn't lose much at all from its Champs Sports Bowl title team. Defensive end O'Brien Schofield leaves a major void in the pass rush, but the Badgers are well stocked on both sides of the ball. The offense loses only one starter in tight end Garrett Graham.

Strongest position: Offensive line

• Key returnees: All five starters are back as tackles Gabe Carimi and Josh Oglesby, guards Travis Frederick and Kevin Zeitler, and center John Moffitt all return. Key reserves like Bill Nagy and Peter Konz are also back.
• Key departures: Tackle Jake Bscherer, who played both tackle and guard in 2009, is transferring.
• The skinny: At Wisconsin, everything always starts with the offensive line, and this group will be a very good one in 2010. Everyone returns from a unit that helped the Badgers lead the Big Ten in both rushing (203.8) and scoring (31.8 ppg) last fall. Carimi and Moffitt could contend for national honors, and the line will pave the way for Heisman Trophy contender John Clay, the 2009 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year. There's not only experience but plenty of depth throughout the group. Running back, wide receiver and linebacker also look strong for the Badgers.

Weakest position: Defensive tackle

• Key returnees: Junior Patrick Butrym (24 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 interception, three passes defended); redshirt freshman Jordan Kohout (heralded recruit, early enrollee)
• Key departures: Dan Moore (21 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 quarterback hurries); Jeff Stehle (19 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 passes defended).
• The skinny: The Badgers don't have a glaring weakness on their team, although a few spots on defense could use a boost. Despite Schofield's departure, the pass rush should be decent with J.J. Watt, Louis Nzegwu and David Gilbert, but the interior line looks a bit shaky. Wisconsin will lean on Butrym and hope Kohout, who transformed his body as a true freshman, blossoms on the practice field this spring. The Badgers led the Big Ten and ranked fifth nationally against the run in 2009 (88.2 ypg), so solidifying the middle of the line without both Moore and Stehle is key.

After watching Michigan State and Purdue slug it out on the basketball court Sunday, I was tempted to make the short drive down I-65 to Indianapolis for the final few days of the NFL combine.

The combine continues today and Tuesday, but many of the key evaluations have already taken place.

Let's take a look at the Big Ten's top performers in the events through Sunday:

40-Yard Dash

• Tony Moeaki, Iowa, tied for fourth among tight ends (4.69 seconds)
• Andrew Quarless, Penn State, tied for fourth among tight ends (4.69 seconds)

Bench Press

• Daryll Clark, Penn State, first among quarterbacks (21 reps)
• Arrelious Benn, Illinois, tied for first among wide receivers (20 reps)
• Blair White, Michigan State, sixth among wide receivers (18 reps)
• Michael Hoomanawanui, Illinois, third among tight ends (25 reps)
• Andrew Quarless, Penn State, tied for fifth among tight ends (23 reps)
• Garrett Graham, Wisconsin, tied for eighth among tight ends (20 reps)
• Thaddeus Gibson, Ohio State, tied for sixth among defensive linemen (32 reps)
• Brandon Graham, Michigan, tied for 10th among defensive linemen (31 reps)
• Mike Neal, Purdue, tied for 10th among defensive linemen (31 reps)

Vertical Jump

• Mike Kafka, Northwestern, tied for seventh among quarterbacks (32 inches)
• Arrelious Benn, Illinois, tied for eighth among wide receivers (37 inches)
• Garrett Graham, Wisconsin, sixth among tight ends (34.5 inches)
• Tony Moeaki, Iowa, tied for seventh among tight ends (34 inches)
• Rodger Saffold, Indiana, tied for ninth among offensive linemen (29.5 inches)

Broad Jump

• Mike Kafka, Northwestern, tied for fifth among quarterbacks (9 feet, 2 inches)
• Tony Moeaki, Iowa, tied for fifth among tight ends (9 feet, 5 inches)
• Rodger Saffold, Indiana, tied for second among offensive linemen (9 feet, 5 inches)

3-Cone Drill

• Mike Kafka, Northwestern, third among quarterbacks (6.96 seconds)
• Blair White, Michigan State, third among wide receivers (6.69 seconds)
• Rodger Saffold, Indiana, third among offensive linemen (7.42 seconds)

20-Yard Shuttle

• Blair White, Michigan State, first among wide receivers (4.03 seconds)
• Garrett Graham, Wisconsin, fourth among tight ends (4.35 seconds)
• Rodger Saffold, Indiana, eighth among offensive linemen (4.67 seconds)

60-Yard Shuttle

• Mike Kafka, Northwestern, second among quarterbacks (11.79 seconds)
• Blair White, Michigan State, second among wide receivers (11.07 seconds)
• Tony Moeaki, Iowa, third among tight ends (11.86 seconds)

So it's been a good combine for players like Moeaki, Saffold, White, Kafka and Quarless. I'll provide more updates on top performers as the results are posted.

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.

Perhaps the best part about spring practice is projecting the handful of players who will turn heads and raise expectations heading into the fall. Most of these players have provided hints of bigger things to come.

So who will become a breakout player in the Big Ten? Here are a few names to watch.

Penn State CB Stephon Morris: Morris made a name for himself in Penn State's nickel package as a true freshman. He recorded 30 tackles, had an interception, a sack and two passes defended. Look for him to improve and become a major factor in Penn State's secondary.

Michigan State WR Keshawn Martin: He is already the Big Ten's most dangerous kickoff returner and could become one of the league's top wide receivers this year. Martin led Michigan State last season in yards-per-reception (22.8) and yards-per-carry (12.2). Look for the Spartans to find more ways to get the ball to Martin, who is a legitimate big-play threat.

Wisconsin TE Lance Kendricks: Kendricks certainly looked like Wisconsin's tight end of the future in the Champs Sports Bowl, where he recorded seven receptions for a career high 128 receiving yards in the win against Miami. Garrett Graham's graduation opens up the top spot for Kendricks, who could have a monster season in 2010 working alongside quarterback Scott Tolzien.

Minnesota S Kim Royston: Minnesota will lean heavily on its safeties in 2010, and Royston looks ready for the added responsibility. The Wisconsin transfer finished the 2009 season on a very strong note: He recorded a career high 15 tackles (14 solo) and forced a fumble. Royston and Kyle Theret could form the league's top safety tandem.

Iowa RB Jewel Hampton: He's baaaack. Younger teammates Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher filled in nicely for Hampton in 2009, but Hampton still has the best chance to become Iowa's featured back. He averaged 5.1 yards per carry and scored seven touchdowns in 2008 as Shonn Greene's backup and can be very effective if his knee gets back to 100 percent.

Illinois CB/WR Terry Hawthorne: One of the few bright spots for Illinois last season, Hawthorne recorded 30 tackles, intercepted a ball for a 44-yard touchdown and had six passes defended as a true freshman. He can play both cornerback and wide receiver for the Illini, who are desperate for playmakers on both sides of the ball. Hawthorne provided a spark for Illinois last year, but he could be a star in 2010.

Ohio State LB Brian Rolle: Cameron Heyward and Ross Homan will be the headliners for Ohio State's defense in 2010, but watch out for Rolle as well. Rolle already "broke out," in a sense, with 95 tackles (seven for loss) and an interception in 2009. But he could truly explode for the Buckeyes this coming fall.

Northwestern TE Drake Dunsmore: Anyone who saw Dunsmore run through several Auburn defenders for a 66-yard touchdown in the Outback Bowl recognizes his immense potential. The junior might be NU's top NFL prospect and offensive coordinator Mick McCall loves to get him involved. Dunsmore will be one of the top targets for new starting quarterback Dan Persa.

The official list of invitees to the NFL scouting combine is out, and the Big Ten will send 41 former players to Indianapolis later this month. The combine takes place Feb. 24-March 2, and all 11 Big Ten schools will be represented. Iowa leads the way with seven invitees, followed Penn State with six invitees and four teams (Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio State) each with four invitees.

You've already seen an early list, which didn't include underclassmen and some seniors who were named later.

Here's the full roster of Big Ten participants, sorted by team:

ILLINOIS: G Jon Asamoah, WR Arrelious Benn, TE Michael Hoomanawanui

INDIANA: DE Jammie Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, S Nick Polk, OT Rodger Saffold

IOWA: LB Pat Angerer, OT Bryan Bulaga, OT Kyle Calloway, LB A.J. Edds, TE Tony Moeaki, G Dace Richardson, CB Amari Spievey

MICHIGAN: DE Brandon Graham, P Zoltan Mesko, RB Brandon Minor, CB Donovan Warren

MICHIGAN STATE: K Brett Swenson, WR Blair White

MINNESOTA: LB Lee Campbell, WR Eric Decker, LB Simoni Lawrence, LB Nate Triplett

NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, CB Sherrick McManis, DE Corey Wootton

OHIO STATE: S Kurt Coleman, DE Thaddeus Gibson, K Aaron Pettrey, DT Doug Worthington

PENN STATE: LB Navorro Bowman, QB Daryll Clark, LB Josh Hull, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, TE Andrew Quarless

PURDUE: DT Mike Neal, CB David Pender

WISCONSIN: TE Garrett Graham, LB O'Brien Schofield (injured)

Those of us who watch Big Ten football every week know good Brandon Graham is at his craft.

The rest of the country, not to mention the NFL's top talent evaluators, got clued in Saturday afternoon at the Senior Bowl.

Graham, the outstanding defensive end from Michigan, earned MVP honors for the North team in a 31-13 victory against the South all-stars in Mobile, Ala. Graham recorded three tackles for loss, including two sacks, and forced a Zac Robinson fumble.

"I just wanted to go out and show them boys I come hard and I was in the best shape of my life," he told reporters afterward. "I came out and went hard every play."

Graham most likely locked up a spot in the first round of April's draft after a great week in Mobile. He was somewhat overlooked the last two seasons because of Michigan's struggles, particularly on defense, but he shouldn't be punished for the team's shortcomings. No Big Ten defender had more impressive numbers than Graham, who led the nation in tackles for loss and ranked 14th in sacks.

Iowa linebacker A.J. Edds also headlined a strong defensive effort from the North squad with an interception and a fumble recovery that set up a touchdown. Edds had two tackles in the game.

Other Big Ten notables in the game:

• Michigan State's Brett Swenson put the North team on the scoreboard with a 43-yard field goal and went 4-for-4 on extra-point attempts.
• Michigan's Zoltan Mesko averaged 32.3 yards on three punts, placing one inside the 20-yard line.
• Ohio State safety Kurt Coleman and Penn State defensive tackle Jared Odrick both recorded a tackle.
• Purdue defensive tackle Mike Neal had one assisted tackle for loss.
• Wisconsin tight end Garrett Graham recorded one catch for 10 yards.

The postseason top 30 rankings continue with ...

No. 28

Garrett Graham, TE, Wisconsin, Sr., 6-3, 250

Preseason rank: 17

Why he's here: When it comes to Big Ten tight ends, no player has been steadier and more reliable than Graham the last three seasons. He saw increases in receptions (30-40-51), receiving yards (328-540-624) and touchdown receptions (4-5-7) from 2007 to 2009, and helped create balance for Wisconsin's offense, which led the Big Ten in scoring. He earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the league's media for the second straight season and should be a mid-round selection in April's NFL draft.

Players like Oregon's Ed Dickson and Florida's Aaron Hernandez generate more national hype than Graham, but the Wisconsin standout showed he could do it all this season. Graham ranks among the top 10 in team history in career receptions (121) and career touchdown catches (16). He's also a terrific blocker who helped Wisconsin lead the Big Ten in rushing in 2009.

The rundown

• No. 30: Michigan State WR Blair White
• No. 29: Northwestern DE Corey Wootton

Day 2 of Senior Bowl practices went much better for the Big Ten. No major injuries to report, and several players are stepping up, according to the ESPN's Scouts Inc. experts in Mobile.

Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham is impressing the scouts, a development that shouldn't surprise any of us who watched No. 55 dominate the Big Ten this fall.

Scouts Inc.'s Day 2 blog recognizes Graham, who "has already emerged as the leader of the North defense. Graham is quick with good upper-body strength and technique. He never stops working, either. His motor is just ridiculous."

Illinois tight end Michael Hoomanawanui also is looking good during practices. He was recognized as one of the North team's stars on Tuesday. As Scouts Inc. writes: "He is a crisp, physical route-runner who does not get pushed around and catches the ball well in traffic. We'd like to see a more violent punch as a run-blocker but he showed good leg drive on Day 2 and is by far the best inline blocker among the North tight ends."

As for the other Big Ten prospects ...

• "Iowa LB A.J. Edds did a good job of jamming and re-routing Wisconsin TE Garrett Graham during 7-on-7s but stumbled when forced to turn and run, so we're a little concerned about his man cover skills."
• "Purdue DT Mike Neal owned [Notre Dame guard Eric] Olsen all morning long."

Thanks to Justin from New Orleans for a great suggestion:

I agree with your recent post about your feelings on recruiting rankings, and as a thought, maybe once signing day is done and you have some down time, it might be worthwhile to do an article looking at the individual recruiting rankings of the players named to the all big ten teams from this year. This would seem to me to be a good study about recruiting rankings, as well as staffs that identify and develop talent.

No need to wait for signing day to take a look back. It's very interesting to see the top prospects who reached their potential and the guys who came out of nowhere to earn All-Big Ten honors. As many of you know, I don't think recruiting rankings mean everything, especially in a league like the Big Ten that boasts several strong developmental programs.

Below you'll find the first-team All-Big Ten offense selections from the media this year and how they ranked in recruiting according to ESPN's Scouts Inc., Rivals.com and Scout.com. I've displayed position rankings, state rankings and national rankings.

Note: Scouts Inc. doesn't have rankings for players in the 2005 recruiting class.

I'll have the defense rankings in a separate post later today.

OFFENSE

Daryll Clark, QB, Penn State
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars (out of five), No. 24 quarterback, No. 38 player in Ohio, unranked nationally (overall)
Scout: Two stars (out of five), unranked nationally (top 100) or among quarterbacks

Evan Royster, RB, Penn State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 72, No. 105 running back, No. 19 player in Virginia, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 26 running back, No. 14 player in Virginia, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 39 running back, unranked nationally

John Clay, RB, Wisconsin
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 79, No. 12 running back, No. 2 in Wisconsin, No. 108 player nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 4 running back, No. 2 player in Wisconsin, No. 36 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 14 running back, unranked nationally

Tandon Doss, WR, Indiana
Class: 2008
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 78, No. 64 running back, No. 6 player in Indiana
Rivals: Two stars, unranked nationally or among wide receivers, No. 10 player in Indiana
Scout: Three stars, No. 144 wide receiver, unranked nationally

Keith Smith, WR, Purdue
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 74, No. 74 quarterback, No. 115 player in Texas
Rivals: Three stars, listed as athlete, unranked for position or state or nationally
Scout: Two stars, listed as wide receiver, unranked nationally

Stefen Wisniewski, C, Penn State
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 79, No. 4 center, No. 4 in Pennsylvania, No. 131 player nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 8 center, No. 5 player in Pennsylvania, No. 131 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 5 offensive guard, No. 100 nationally

Justin Boren, G, Ohio State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPN 150, Grade of 82, No. 2 offensive guard, No. 4 in Ohio, No. 71 nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 1 center, No. 4 player in Ohio, No. 64 nationally
Scout: Five stars, No. 7 offensive lineman, No. 42 nationally

John Moffitt, G, Wisconsin
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among offensive tackles, No. 23 player in Connecticut
Rivals: Three stars, unranked for position or state or nationally
Scout: Two stars, unranked among offensive linemen or nationally

Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU150, Grade of 80, No. 9 offensive tackle, No. 2 in Illinois, No. 96 nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 6 offensive tackle, No. 2 in Illinois, No. 70 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 16 offensive guard, unranked nationally

Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among offensive tackles, No. 20 in Wisconsin
Rivals: Three stars, No. 30 offensive tackle, No. 3 in Wisconsin, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, unranked among offensive linemen or nationally

Garrett Graham, TE, Wisconsin
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 33 tight end, No. 21 in New Jersey, unranked nationally
Scout: Two stars, No. 53 among tight ends, unranked nationally

Brett Swenson, K, Michigan State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among kickers, No. 5 kicker in Florida
Rivals: Three stars, No. 4 kicker, unranked in state or nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 4 kicker, unranked nationally

There you have it. So recruiting rankings certainly don't mean everything, though in some cases they give you a good idea of what's to come.