ESPN College Football

The wait is finally over for Big Ten players not selected in April's NFL draft.

Free agent deals are finally taking place during a whirlwind week in the post-lockout NFL.

We'll have additional updates as the day goes on, but here's a look at where Big Ten players are landing.

ILLINOIS

• CB Travon Bellamy, St. Louis Rams
• WR Jarred Fayson: New Orleans Saints
• G Randall Hunt: St. Louis Rams
• DE Clay Nurse: New England Patriots

INDIANA

• QB Ben Chappell: Washington Redskins
• WR Terrance Turner: Philadelphia Eagles

IOWA

• P Ryan Donahue: Detroit Lions
• LB Jeremiah Hunter: New Orleans Saints
• TE Allen Reisner: Minnesota Vikings
• LB Jeff Tarpinian: New England Patriots

MICHIGAN

• T Perry Dorrestein: New York Jets
• CB James Rogers: Denver Broncos
• TE Martell Webb: Philadelphia Eagles

MICHIGAN STATE

• WR Mark Dell: Denver Broncos
• LB Eric Gordon: Jacksonville Jaguars
• T D.J. Young: Arizona Cardinals

MINNESOTA

• T Dom Alford: Cleveland Browns
• FB Jon Hoese: Green Bay Packers
• QB Adam Weber: Denver Broncos

NEBRASKA

• K Adi Kunalic: Carolina Panthers
• TE Mike McNeill: Indianapolis Colts
• DE Pierre Allen: Seattle Seahawks
• G Ricky Henry: Chicago Bears
• T D.J. Jones: Miami Dolphins
• S Rickey Thenarse: Seattle Seahawks

NORTHWESTERN

• DT Corbin Bryant: Chicago Bears
• LB Quentin Davie: Detroit Lions

OHIO STATE

• G Bryant Browning: St. Louis Rams
• G Justin Boren: Baltimore Ravens
• RB Brandon Saine: Green Bay Packers
• WR Dane Sanzenbacher: Chicago Bears
• DT Dexter Larimore: New Orleans Saints
• CB Devon Torrence: Minnesota Vikings

PENN STATE

• WR Brett Brackett: Miami Dolphins
• LB Chris Colasanti: Indianapolis Colts
• LB Bani Gbadyu: Oakland Raiders
• DT Ollie Ogbu: Indianapolis Colts

PURDUE

• TE Kyle Adams: Chicago Bears
• WR Keith Smith: Detroit Lions

WISCONSIN

• CB Niles Brinkley: Pittsburgh Steelers
• RB John Clay: Pittsburgh Steelers
• QB Scott Tolzien: San Diego Chargers

National Signing Day is just about a week away, so let's take a look at the recruiting needs for each Big Ten team.

In compiling these lists, I tried to look at positions that have depth issues for 2011 and/or 2012.

Let's start off with the Legends division.

IOWA

Running back: Marcus Coker's breakout performance in the Insight Bowl got Iowa fans excited for the future, but there's still a significant depth issue here. If Adam Robinson can't get reinstated, the Hawkeyes will be looking for No. 2 and No. 3 options behind Coker. As we've seen the past two seasons, freshmen backs will see the field at Iowa.

Linebacker: Iowa felt the losses of Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds this season, and it must continue to rebuild the depth at the three linebacker spots. Multiyear starter Jeremiha Hunter departs along with players like Jeff Tarpinian and Troy Johnson. Iowa needs to build around rising star James Morris.

Wide receiver/tight end: Iowa loses Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, Allen Reisner and Colin Sandeman this year. Also, receiver Marvin McNutt and tight end Brad Herman depart after the 2011 season. Although the Hawkeyes boast young talent at both positions, they need to build depth with this class.

MICHIGAN

Secondary: The Wolverines couldn't find many answers here in 2010, and though the return of players like cornerbacks Troy Woolfolk and J.T. Floyd will help, there are opportunities for freshmen to make an immediate impact. Michigan simply needs more options at both secondary spots in 2011.

Defensive line: It's crucial for coach Brady Hoke and defensive coordinator Greg Mattison to begin building depth up front. Future NFL player Mike Martin departs after 2011 along with Ryan Van Bergen, so Michigan needs to solidify both line positions.

Kicker: Field goals were an adventure in 2010, and Michigan simply can't have so much uncertainty at kicker going forward. The Wolverines need a reliable leg here ASAP.

MICHIGAN STATE

Linebacker: I like some of the young linebackers the Spartans bring back in 2011, but you can't overlook the losses of multiyear starters Greg Jones and Eric Gordon, not to mention reserve Jon Misch. Michigan State should have a decent group of first-string 'backers, but wants to build depth in the defensive midsection.

Offensive line: Not only do the Spartans lose three starters from the 2010 line, but they're still not where they need to be depth-wise up front to become a consistent top-tier Big Ten program. Michigan State wants to become like Iowa and Wisconsin. The big step is to keep fortifying both lines, especially on the offensive side.

MINNESOTA

Pass rusher: Minnesota finished last in the Big Ten in sacks last season (9) and hasn't had an intimidating pass rusher since Willie VanDeSteeg in 2008. The recent departure of defensive tackle Jewhan Edwards, who led the team in both sacks and tackles for loss in 2009, underscores this need.

Offensive line: The Gophers lose three starters up front, and while they boast some promising young linemen like tackle Ed Olson, the depth just isn't there yet. Minnesota's best teams had powerful offensive lines, and new coach Jerry Kill must continue to create competition up front.

NEBRASKA

Running back: The Huskers lose standout Roy Helu Jr., and while Rex Burkhead quickly will become one of my favorite Big Ten players, he might not be an every-down back for Nebraska going forward. You always want options in the backfield, and Nebraska must continue to address its run game with the 2011 class.

Wide receiver: Nebraska loses Niles Paul and wants to identify playmakers to surround Taylor Martinez or whomever starts at quarterback. Brandon Kinnie departs after the 2011 season, and while Burkhead helps in the receiving department, Nebraska needs others to emerge.

NORTHWESTERN

Running back: Although Mike Trumpy and Adonis Smith emerged as possible answers late in the 2010 season, Northwestern needs to create real competition here. The Wildcats have lacked a dominant back during the Pat Fitzgerald era and need a dangerous rushing option to complement Dan Persa.

Defensive line: The Wildcats lose only one starter (Corbin Bryant) from the 2010 squad, but four more rotation players (Vince Browne, Jack DiNardo, Kevin Watt and Niko Mafuli) depart after 2011. Fortifying the pass rush is a major priority going forward.

You already know about Penn State naming Matt McGloin as its starting quarterback for the Ohio State game.

Here are some more personnel nuggets from around the league:

IOWA

Top running back Adam Robinson will practice later Tuesday and is expected to return to the starting lineup Saturday at Northwestern. Robinson missed last week's game at Indiana with an undisclosed injury.

Coach Kirk Ferentz said Robinson went through his regular training and lifting on Sunday and is "fine to go." Ferentz didn't confirm that Robinson suffered a concussion in the Michigan State game.

More good news for Iowa, as defensive coordinator Norm Parker is back in the office in a limited basis as he continues his recovery from foot amputation surgery. He returned home from a rehabilitation center in Cedar Rapids on Friday and was back in the office Sunday.

Ferentz said there's a chance Parker will travel with the team to Northwestern.

"It's very limited but it's a great first step, certainly," Ferentz said. "And I think like anybody in that situation, he's got a lot of ground to cover right now from endurance and strength, that type of thing. But it's a huge step for him."

Ferentz also said Jeff Tarpinian is back to full speed and could start at outside linebacker this week.

OHIO STATE

As expected, Ohio State will get linebackers Ross Homan and Dorian Bell back from injuries this week against Penn State. Homan, a senior and a three-year starter, has missed the last two games with a foot injury.

Homan went through 7-on-7 drills Sunday.

"Just like the trainer said, the key will be how does he do two days in a row to see if there's any issues," coach Jim Tressel said, "but based upon after Sunday, I would say no doubt [he plays]."

PURDUE

The Boilers once again enter the week anticipating that true freshman Sean Robinson will start at quarterback for Saturday's game against Michigan.

Redshirt freshman Rob Henry is still dealing with considerable pain from the laceration on his throwing hand, and coach Danny Hope said the redshirt freshman has some tissue damage. Purdue will consider using receiver Justin Siller at quarterback, but only if Siller makes some strides this week from a foot injury. Siller started three games at quarterback in 2008 and led Purdue to a win against Michigan.

"If Justin's able to do more, we'd like to train him as a quarterback," Hope said. "How effective he can be right now, we're not really sure because he still can't run full speed."

Walk-on Skyler Titus is expected to serve as Purdue's No. 2 quarterback against the Wolverines.

WISCONSIN

Coach Bret Bielema sounded more optimistic Tuesday about starting running John Clay (sprained knee) playing this week against Indiana.

Bielema listed Clay as questionable Monday, but the coach bumped into the running back in the training room Tuesday and said Clay "seemed pretty upbeat" about playing against the Hoosiers. Bielema is hopeful that Wisconsin will have all three of its backs -- Clay, James White and Montee Ball -- available Saturday.

Ball, who has provided a big lift in the last two games and rushed for 115 yards last year against Indiana, is "probably poised to make his first start of the season this week," Bielema said.

PENN STATE

The Lions likely will be without defensive end Eric Latimore (wrist) for another week, while defensive lineman Jordan Hill will play against Ohio State after suffering an ankle injury in the second half of the Northwestern win.

MINNESOTA

Defensive tackle Brandon Kirksey returns from his one-game suspension. Minnesota will be without another defensive lineman, Austin Hahn, who will miss the Illinois game with a torn meniscus that was repaired Monday. Hahn could return for the season finale against Iowa.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- We're about 30 minutes away from kickoff here at Kinnick Stadium and both teams are on the field going through warm-ups.

Michigan State cornerback Chris L. Rucker went through warm-ups and looks ready to play. Wide receiver Keshawn Martin is in uniform, but will only play in emergency situations. Bennie Fowler and Mark Dell will handle punt returns.

Iowa linebackers Jeff Tarpinian and Jeremiha Hunter also went through warm-ups, although it's likely that true freshman James Morris will get the nod at one of the linebacker spots.

Much more to come from Kinnick Stadium, so keep it right here.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- Greetings from eastern Iowa, where No. 5 Michigan State puts its undefeated record on the line against No. 18 Iowa.

It's a beautiful day for football with no rain in the forecast and fairly light winds. Halloween is in full swing here, and I saw quite a few people in costume last night walking around downtown. Some of my favorites: "The Situation," Bret Michaels, the sun from the Jimmy Dean commercials and two Avatars. Good stuff.

OK, back to football.

These teams have provided three of the Big Ten's most exciting matchups since 2007, and their past three games have been decided by a total of 12 points. Expect another close one today.

Many see today's game as the final barrier between Michigan State and an undefeated season. The Spartans' remaining schedule has home games against Purdue and Minnesota and a road trip to Penn State. They'll be favored in all three matchups. It's a different story today as the oddsmakers and most experts, aside from the stars of "ESPN College GameDay," are picking Iowa to win. I'm sure coach Mark Dantonio is using the underdog role as a way to motivate his team.

Iowa also has plenty to play for, as a loss likely removes the Hawkeyes from the Big Ten title race. If the Hawkeyes drop to 5-3, you can brand this season as a disappointment given the preseason expectations. Defensive coordinator Norm Parker returns to Kinnick Stadium today for the first time since his foot-amputation surgery late last month, so you know the Hawkeyes will be fired up to see Norm.

I've spent enough time on the Chris L. Rucker situation, but the Spartans cornerback decided to make the trip. He won't start, but could play today.

Michigan State receiver/return man Keshawn Martin and Iowa linebacker Jeff Tarpinian both have been battling injuries. I'll look out for them during warm-ups and let you know how they look.

That's it for now. Sit back, relax and enjoy. Plenty more coming from Kinnick.

A few bits of injury news to pass along from around the Big Ten.

• Wisconsin starting linebacker Mike Taylor is expected to play Saturday at No. 15 Iowa after injuring his ankle and knee against Ohio State. Badgers coach Bret Bielema said Taylor underwent X-rays that showed no structural damage after he rolled his ankle and hyperextended his knee. Defensive tackle Jordan Kohout (foot) and tight end Lance Kendricks also should be fine for the trip to Iowa.
• Indiana expects running backs Trea Burgess, Nick Turner and Antonio Banks to be ready for this week's trip to Illinois, but the news along the offensive line isn't so good. Coach Bill Lynch said starting right tackle James Brewer (ankle) likely will miss another week, and reserve Josh Hager also likely is out, putting sophomore Marc Damisch in the starting role. Depth also could be an issue up front, as Dustin Dopirak writes. Defensive backs Richard Council and Chris Adkins remain out.
• Northwestern defensive end Vince Browne participated in Monday's practice and will play Saturday against No. 7 Michigan State, coach Pat Fitzgerald said.
• Michigan's bye week comes at a good time, as quarterback Denard Robinson (shoulder) and others have time to heal. Coach Rich Rodriguez said Robinson, who dealt with shoulder soreness last week in practice, "should be fine" for the Penn State game on Oct. 30. Center David Molk, defensive tackle Mike Martin and running back Michael Shaw also should be fine for Penn State.
• Middle linebacker Jeff Tarpinian (stinger) once again isn't listed on Iowa's depth chart. Troy Johnson is pegged to start against Wisconsin with James Morris backing him up.

I've been busy putting together team-by-team Big Ten midseason reviews for Tuesday -- check the blog bright and early! -- but here are a few notable items from around the league.

• Michigan will be without receiver Martavious Odoms for an extended period after the junior suffered a broken foot in the loss to Michigan State. Coach Rich Rodriguez isn't sure if Odoms' injury is season ending, but Michigan now will lean more on wideout Junior Hemingway, who has looked good the past few weeks. Center David Molk and defensive tackle Mike Martin both suffered ankle sprains in the Michigan State game, but should be fine for this week's contest against Iowa. Running back Fitz Toussaint (shoulder) will miss another game, but could return after the bye week, Rodriguez said.
• Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema doesn't regret his decision to go for two in the Badgers' blowout win against Minnesota, saying Monday, "I went to the card and I would go with it 1 million times over." Bielema told reporters in Madison that he had just seen Minnesota's offense score a quick touchdown and wasn't trying to run up the score with the 2-point conversion attempt.
• Iowa's depth chart for Saturday's game at Michigan doesn't include middle linebacker Jeff Tarpinian, who was limited to a few plays against Penn State with a neck stinger. Troy Johnson is listed as the starter despite suffering a concussion in the Penn State contest, while impressive freshman James Morris projects as the backup.
• Tight end Jake Stoneburner is back on Ohio State's depth chart as the starter after missing the past two games with a high ankle sprain. Expect to see No. 11 on the field Saturday night at Camp Randall Stadium.
• Colleague Mark Schlabach named Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson as the nation's midseason Offensive MVP. The Michigan State-Notre Dame overtime thriller earned Game of the Year honors, although the Spartans' fake field goal for a touchdown lost out to Les Miles' fake field goal call against Florida for the title of Best Play. Speaking of Robinson, he's SI.com's pick for the Halfway Heisman (Terrelle Pryor is No. 4), and he stepped up as a leader after the MSU defeat. Pryor is second in this week's Heisman Predictor, while Robinson drops to No. 6.
• Indiana's depth chart for Arkansas State also is out, and here are some notes from The (Bloomington) Herald-Times (subscription required).

It's time to take a look at the top five linebacker units in the Big Ten this fall.

1. Ohio State: The Buckeyes boast two of the Big Ten's top 10 linebackers in Ross Homan and Brian Rolle, and they also have good depth. Homan might have been the league's most underrated defender in 2009 after tying for fourth in the league in interceptions (five) and finishing eighth in tackles (8.3 per game). Rolle makes up for his lack of size with speed and explosiveness. Ohio State's supporting cast includes Etienne Sabino, Andrew Sweat, Dorian Bell and others.

2. Michigan State: Back-to-back Big Ten preseason Defensive Player of the Year Greg Jones enters the season as the frontrunner to win the Butkus Award. But he's not alone on what should be a loaded linebacking corps. All-Big Ten candidate Eric Gordon has played a ton of football alongside Jones, and the coaches were pleased with Chris Norman this spring. Hopes are extremely high for true freshmen William Gholston, the Big Ten's top-rated recruit, and Max Bullough. It's clear to see why the Spartans are moving closer to the 3-4.

3. Wisconsin: Health remains a concern, as Mike Taylor's knee problems will linger and Chris Borland comes off of shoulder surgery, but Wisconsin has plenty of talent here. Borland is a rare, do-everything player who won Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors in 2009. Taylor likely would have contended for the same award if not for a torn ACL against Iowa. The Badgers also bring back Culmer St. Jean and Blake Sorensen.

4. Northwestern: As a College Football Hall of Fame linebacker, Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald loves the look of this group. Senior Quentin Davie is a bona fide NFL prospect who has consistently reached the offensive backfield throughout his career. Middle linebacker Nate Williams enters his third year as the starter, and the coaches have solid options in Bryce McNaul, Ben Johnson and David Nwabuisi. Fitzgerald says this is the most linebacker depth Northwestern has had in his tenure.

5 (tie). Iowa and Penn State: These teams combine to lose five All-Big Ten 'backers from 2009, including first-team selections Pat Angerer (Iowa) and Navorro Bowman (Penn State). But both have historically reloaded at linebacker, and this year should be no different. Iowa's Jeremiha Hunter returns for his third year as a starter, and Jeff Tarpinian and Tyler Nielsen are primed for bigger roles. Troy Johnson and Bruce Davis are two other names to watch, and hopes are high for freshman James Morris. Penn State loses all three starters, but Nate Stupar and Bani Gbadyu have played a lot of football. Michael Mauti's return from an ACL injury and Penn State's strong recruiting at linebacker also elevate hope for the group.

Next up: Secondary

More rankings ...

• Defensive line

2009 overall record: 11-2

2009 conference record: 6-2 (T-2nd)

Returning starters

Offense: 6, defense: 8, kicker/punter: 2

Top returners

QB Ricky Stanzi, WR Marvin McNutt, WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, RB Adam Robinson, OT Riley Reiff, DE Adrian Clayborn, DT Karl Klug, DE Broderick Binns, S Tyler Sash

Key losses

LT Bryan Bulaga, RT Kyle Calloway, TE Tony Moeaki, G Dace Richardson, C Rafael Eubanks, LB Pat Angerer, LB A.J. Edds, CB Amari Spievey

2009 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Adam Robinson* (834 yards)

Passing: Ricky Stanzi* (2,417 yards)

Receiving: Derrell Johnson-Koulianos* (750 yards)

Tackles: Pat Angerer (145)

Sacks: Adrian Clayborn* (11.5)

Interceptions: Tyler Sash* (6)

Spring answers

1. Man in the middle: Jeff Tarpinian emerged from spring ball as Iowa's starting middle linebacker, taking over for first-team All-Big Ten selection Pat Angerer. Tarpinian has big shoes to fill but boasts some experience and stepped up his play this spring. "I'm really pleased with his progress," head coach Kirk Ferentz said of Tarpinian.

2. Separation along O-line: Iowa's offensive line remains its No. 1 area of concern, but six players separated themselves this spring, which is a good sign. Along with returning starters Riley Reiff and Julian Vandervelde, right tackle Markus Zusevics and right guard Adam Gettis emerged as front-runners at their positions. Josh Koeppel and James Ferentz are neck-and-neck at the center spot, and the competition will continue in August.

3. Klug steps up: Adrian Clayborn is the defense's undisputed leader, but defensive tackle Karl Klug established himself as Clayborn's right-hand man this spring. Klug admits he's not the most vocal player, but his experience and attitude command respect on the field. "Karl played well in the fall," Kirk Ferentz said, "but if you surveyed any 10 of our players now, at least nine of them would tell you, maybe 10, that Karl Klug is one of our best leaders and one of our best players."

Fall questions

1. Running back: Iowa boasts depth at running back, but the No. 1 spot is very much up for grabs entering the summer. Robinson missed spring ball following shoulder surgery, Brandon Wegher sprained his shoulder during the spring and Jewel Hampton was held out of contact as he recovers from his knee injury. Iowa needs to keep these guys healthy in camp and figure out how the carries will work this fall.

2. O-line chemistry: The offensive line will be a major area to watch until the season opener and likely beyond. Iowa loses four players with starting experience and will lean heavily on Reiff and Vandervelde to lead the group. Just because the Hawkeyes have a strong record up front doesn't guarantee the line will reload, and Iowa knows it needs to keep Stanzi on the field after last season.

3. Kicking it: Ferentz said the kickers were inconsistent this spring, and Daniel Murray and Trent Mossbrucker will continue to compete throughout fall camp. Murray connected on 19 of 26 field goal attempts last season but missed some chip shots, and Mossbrucker, the team's top kicker for most of 2008, has worked his way back into the mix.

Gearing up for a big week in the Big Ten.

• The Big Ten needs to force Notre Dame's hand with the expansion push, Bob Hunter writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Ohio State's defense dominated Saturday's jersey scrimmage, leaving the offense stunned, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
• Ron Zook's top recruits at Illinois this winter were his new coordinators, Herb Gould writes in the Chicago Sun-Times.
• Wide receiver Kraig Appleton won't return to Wisconsin, while two teammates could work their way back, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Badgers backup quarterback Jon Budmayr looked shaky in the spring game, Tom Oates writes in the Wisconsin State Journal.
• Iowa passes the eye test in spring practice, Pat Harty writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Jeff Tarpinian steps up as the Hawkeyes' top middle linebacker, Marc Morehouse writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette.
• Michigan's quarterbacks scramble and buy time, just like head coach Rich Rodriguez, and all parties need to make progress in 2010, Bob Wojnowski writes in The Detroit News. Wolverines' safety Cameron Gordon stepped up for the team and switched positions, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• With few healthy running backs on the field, Purdue's quarterbacks stood out in Saturday's spring game, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• Michigan State is building depth at running back with freshmen Nick Hill and Le'Veon Bell, Joe Rexrode writes in the Lansing State Journal.
• Minnesota safety Kim Royston underwent leg surgery Friday, and there's a chance he could be back for the season opener, Kent Youngblood writes in the Star Tribune.
• Former Penn State linebacker Sean Lee could be a sleeper pick in this weekend's draft, Keith Pompey writes in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- It has been a great day at Iowa, where I had the chance to visit with head coach Kirk Ferentz, three assistants and several players, including star defensive end Adrian Clayborn and quarterback Ricky Stanzi. I'll have much more on the Hawkeyes next week, particularly on Tuesday, but I have a few quick items before heading back to Chicago.

• Clayborn will get a ton of preseason pub, and deservedly so, but Ferentz singled out defensive tackle Karl Klug for his performance this spring. Iowa loses leaders like linebackers Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds on defense, and Klug appears ready to take on a bigger role in that department. "Karl played well in the fall," Ferentz said, "but if you surveyed any 10 of our players now, at least nine of them would tell you, maybe 10, that Karl Klug is one of our best leaders and one of our best players." Iowa returns all four starters on the defensive line, and Ferentz considers junior defensive tackle Mike Daniels a fifth starter up front.
• Incoming freshman A.J. Derby is staying at quarterback, at least for the immediate future.Derby played quarterback in high school but was classified as an "athlete" by most recruiting services, including ESPN, leading many to believe he could see time at other positions. "We think he's going to be just fine at quarterback," Ferentz said. "We really have been impressed. And he fits right in with the other three because he's got a real good football mentality." I asked wide receivers coach Erik Campbell if he'd like Derby as a wide receiver, à la Marvin McNutt, and Campbell replied, "No. He's not an athletic type like Marvin. Rick Stanzi would be a pretty good wide receiver: He's nice and tall and long. But I don't think they'd make that trade." I don't think so, either.
• Ferentz thinks the quarterback group is the strongest that he has had since becoming Hawkeyes head coach. Stanzi has had a solid spring, focusing heavily on reducing his interceptions total. Backup James Vandenberg proved himself a bit against Ohio State last year, and Ferentz recognized third-stringer John Wienke for his play this spring.
• Iowa has shuffled the linebackers at different spots this spring, but if the Hawkeyes opened the season Saturday, they would have Jeff Tarpinian at middle linebacker, and Jeremiha Hunter and Tyler Nielsen at the two outside spots, Ferentz said. "They've all improved, including Jeremiah, a two-year starter," Ferentz said. "He's had his best spring, so that's good to see."
• Allen Reisner has stepped in well as the No. 1 tight end, and Ferentz has seen very promising signs from junior Brad Herman as a No. 2 option. "He's clearly had his best period of practice," Ferentz said of Herman. "That's something we really needed to see." Ferentz also thinks its possible incoming freshman C.J. Fiedorowicz could be a factor at tight end with a strong preseason.
• About the only downside to Iowa's spring has been injuries to the running backs. Adam Robinson has been out all spring following shoulder surgery. Brandon Wegher was practicing full-go until sustaining a shoulder sprain. Jewel Hampton is "absolutely fine" but hasn't participated in contact drills. "My name's Tucker, not sucker, so we're not going to have him get hit this spring," Ferentz said. "We're trying to be real careful with him." Brad Rogers will get most of the work in Saturday's spring game, but all three primary backs will be fine for fall camp. Ferentz and offensive coordinator Ken O'Keefe both said it's possible Iowa could split the carries evenly among the three backs.
• It's too soon to make season predictions, but I'll say this: Iowa won't be overconfident, and besides Ohio State, no team is better prepared to handle expectations than the Hawkeyes. There aren't a lot of egos walking around Iowa's football complex, and players know just how close they were to a Rose Bowl last year, and just how close they were to a mediocre season. That's a good sign heading into the 2010 season.

Iowa opened spring practice today, and head coach Kirk Ferentz met with reporters to preview the next few weeks.

A few takeaways from Ferentz's news conference and Iowa's spring two-deep:

• Health update: safeties Tyler Sash and Brett Greenwood will miss spring ball following shoulder surgeries; running back Adam Robinson also will sit out following shoulder surgery; linemen Steve Bigach (knee) and Kyle Haganman (shoulder) also are out following surgeries. Running back Jewel Hampton (knee) has been cleared to practice this spring and will be involved in some contact drills (won't be tackled). Wide receiver Paul Chaney Jr. (knee) will be very limited in spring ball but should be back to full strength by June. Defensive end Dominic Alvis (groin) will be very limited. Nolan MacMillan could be in the mix at offensive line, but he's still working back from sports hernia surgery.
• Not surprisingly, Ferentz fielded several questions about the offensive line, which loses four players who started part or all of last season. Iowa's spring depth chart shows the starting offense line as Riley Reiff at left tackle, Julian Vandervelde at left guard, Josh Koeppel or James Ferentz at center, Adam Gettis at right guard and Markus Zusevics at right tackle. But don't read into that too much, as Ferentz likened filling out the first string, after Reiff and Vandervelde, to throwing darts or flipping coins. "We probably have eight or nine guys competing for the top spots," Ferentz said. "We have a lot of guys on pretty equal footing as far as the competition goes."
• As expected, Shaun Prater is listed as the starter at right cornerback, while Micah Hyde appears as the starter at left corner ahead of both William Lowe and Jordan Bernstine, who comes back from an ankle injury that sidelined him all of last season. Amari Spievey was a huge loss, and it will be interesting to see who steps in for him.
• Ferentz gave a very Ferentz-like answer when asked about the expectations Iowa will face heading into 2010. "We have some very good players back and that will drive expectations," he said. "Preseason polls are a lot like recruiting rankings. They are all speculative. Recruiting rankings are based on what guys did in high school, which is the only way you can rank them. I think preseason rankings are based on your experience level, your success level and then maybe the name of your school, too. So those three things factor in. ... Outside of maybe the name-brand schools, the preseason polls are usually not real accurate."
• Ferentz called the competition at kicker wide open between Daniel Murray and Trent Mossbrucker. "We can do better at that position," he said.
• Ferentz praised the development of linebackers Jeff Tarpinian, Troy Johnson and Tyler Nielsen, who will compete for the two vacant starting spots alongside Jeremiha Hunter. "Quite frankly I'm almost more worried about a year from now at our linebacker spot," he said. "Sounds kind of funny, our two pretty good seniors graduating, but we are top heavy age-wise."
• Ferentz is optimistic about the competition at running backs and would like to have three healthy options on game days this fall.
• The coach also gave an update on his NCAA tournament bracket, which, like many of ours, is busted. One of his daughters, meanwhile, picked Northern Iowa's upset of Kansas. "She knows nothing about basketball," Ferentz said. "Her other picks were -- she was leading after the first two days. I guess she's still leading. She's beating the president, right now, on her brackets. Whatever. Mine are awful."

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.

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz held his season wrap-up news conference today, and not surprisingly, the first question asked was about Notre Dame.

Ferentz continues to be mentioned as a possible candidate for the vacancy at Notre Dame. Much like with Northwestern's Pat Fitzgerald, I really don't see this as a strong possibility. Ferentz has numerous reasons to remain at Iowa, namely a huge salary and the ability to go 8-4 and not fear for a pink slip.

Though the 11th-year Hawkeyes coach declined to comment on the Notre Dame vacancy, saying it's "Notre Dame's business, nobody else's," he did reiterate that he's happy in Iowa City. Ferentz is the second-longest tenured head coach in the Big Ten, behind only Penn State's Joe Paterno.

"I've had paychecks from three different places now since 1981," Ferentz said. "My first full-time job was here [at Iowa]. I'm not a vagabond coach, and I like it where I'm at. ... I don't see things changing here."

Ferentz also addressed other topics, including Iowa's injury situation:

• The health front seems pretty good for Iowa, as starting running back Adam Robinson (ankle) will practice this weekend when the team resumes workouts. Starting quarterback Ricky Stanzi (ankle) is close to a return and will throw in practice this weekend. Linebackers Jeremiha Hunter (ankle) and Jeff Tarpinian (knee) also are expected back. Guard Dace Richardson's situation is still a bit up in the air, but Ferentz remains optimistic the All-Big Ten selection will be ready for the bowl game. Ferentz also will talk with Richardson this week about the possibility of returning for a sixth season.
• Ferentz on Stanzi: "He's moving around really well. He was bouncing around a week ago Saturday. He probably could have thrown the ball, but he'd be at risk back there. But things are really going well with his rehab. ... I fully anticipate him to be full speed probably next week. He could probably play this week."
• Ferentz didn't address possible early departures to the NFL and said players would not be commenting, either. Cornerback Amari Spievey, left tackle Bryan Bulaga and defensive end Adrian Clayborn are three Hawkeyes juniors who could bolt early.
• Not surprisingly, Ferentz didn't say too much about Iowa's bowl prospects and the likely battle against Penn State for a BCS at-large berth. He's leaving the stumping to athletic director Gary Barta. But he did say head-to-head should be a major factor.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

News conferences galore around the Big Ten today. Let's see what the highly paid men wearing whistles had to say:

• A Buckeye backfield of Chris Wells and Terrelle Pryor? You might not need to wait until 2009, The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Doug Lesmerises writes in his blog. Coach Jim Tressel usually favors his seniors, but at this stage, it's looking like Pryor will play plenty, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
  
• Michigan State's Mark Dantonio has never lost to Notre Dame, but he's fighting against a trend on Saturday at home, Joe Rexrode writes in the Lansing State Journal. It hasn't taken long for the Spartans to define themselves as a running team.
• The Indiana-Ball State game hits home for players from 54 in-state high schools, Terry Hutchens writes in The Indianapolis Star.
  
• Bob Flounders of The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News recaps Joe Paterno's news conference, which turned into a Temple love-fest. Mike Lucian (ankle) might be back for Saturday's game, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane writes in his blog.
• Jake Christensen is back in the driver's seat at Iowa, Pat Harty writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Linebacker Jeff Tarpinian is the only Hawkeyes player definitely ruled out for the Pitt game, though there are some other injuries, the Quad City Times' Eric Page writes in his blog.