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

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

Away we go:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The NFL scouting combine wraps up on Tuesday with defensive backs, but more test results are in for defensive linemen and linebackers.

Defensive line once again is the Big Ten's highest-rated group entering the 2011 draft, as up to six players -- Wisconsin's J.J. Watt, Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan, Illinois' Corey Liuget, Iowa's Adrian Clayborn and Christian Ballard, and Ohio State's Cameron Heyward -- could be selected in the first round.

Let's check out the top combine performers from both groups:

Defensive linemen

• Kerrigan tied for seventh in the 40-yard dash at 4.71 seconds; Ballard finished 12th at 4.8 seconds; Clayborn finished 13th at 4.83 seconds; Watt finished 14th at 4.84 seconds
• Watt tied for fourth in bench-press reps with 34; Kerrigan tied for sixth with 31
• Watt finished second in vertical jump at 37 inches; Kerrigan tied for ninth at 33.5 inches; Clayborn finished 11th at 33 inches; Ballard finished 14th at 31.5 inches
• Kerrigan finished second in the broad jump at 10 feet, 2 inches; Watt finished third at 10 feet
• Watt tied for second in the 3-cone drill at 6.88 seconds; Kerrigan finished 15th at 7.18 seconds
• Clayborn finished first in the 20-yard shuttle at 4.13 seconds; Watt finished second at 4.21 seconds

Linebackers

• Ohio State's Ross Homan finished first in bench-press reps with 32; Ohio State's Brian Rolle finished fourth with 28; Illinois' Martez Wilson tied for ninth with 23
• Wilson finished first in the 40-yard dash at 4.49 seconds; Rolle finished third at 4.56 seconds; Homan finished seventh at 4.68 seconds
• Wilson tied for sixth in the vertical jump at 36 inches; Homan finished eighth at 35.5 inches; Rolle finished 12th at 33 inches
• Wilson finished third in the broad jump at 10 feet, 4 inches; Michigan State's Greg Jones finished ninth at 9 feet, 9 inches; Iowa's Jeremiha Hunter tied for 10th at 9 feet, 8 inches; Michigan's Jonas Mouton and Rolle tied for 12th at 9 feet, 7 inches
• Rolle tied for third in the 3-cone drill at 6.89 seconds; Wilson finished ninth at 7.04 seconds; Mouton finished 11th at 7.08 seconds; Homan finished 15th at 7.21 seconds
• Rolle finished eighth at 4.26 seconds; Jones finished ninth at 4.27 seconds; Wilson tied for 10th at 4.28 seconds; Homan and Mouton tied for 14th at 4.34 seconds
• Homan tied for ninth in the 60-yard shuttle at 11.76 seconds; Jones tied for 13th at 11.84 seconds

The defensive backs go through full testing Tuesday, but they did the bench-press Monday. Ohio State's Jermale Hines tied for 10th in bench-press reps among cornerbacks with 19 (Hines played safety at Ohio State but isn't classified as one for the combine).

The Senior Bowl on Saturday doesn't mark the end of the all-star season for Big Ten players.

Eight players from Big Ten squads will head to San Antonio next week to prepare for the NFL Players Association all-star game that pits players from around the country against those from Texas. Colleague Todd McShay thinks the talent level at the NFLPA game is on par with that from the East-West Shrine Game last week.

Here are the Big Ten participants heading to the Alamodome:

NATION TEAM

• Iowa WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos
• Michigan State OT D.J. Young
• Illinois DE Clay Nurse
• Iowa LB Jeremiha Hunter
• Wisconsin CB Niles Brinkley
• Ohio State CB Devon Torrence

TEXAS TEAM

• Northwestern DT Corbin Bryant
• Northwestern LB Quentin Davie

The NFLPA game takes place Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. ET.

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.

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.

I'm slowly getting through the final Big Ten Network preview shows, and I've reviewed the tour stop at Iowa. Dave Revsine, Gerry DiNardo and Howard Griffith checked in on the Hawkeyes for a recent practice held in shoulder pads and shorts.

Here are some notes and observations:

• Running back depth remains a concern, but if Jewel Hampton plays like he practiced on this day, Iowa should be just fine. Hampton showed great burst and cutback ability, and no signs of the knee problems that cost him the 2009 season. He made several nice runs and had a great cutback on a screen pass in team drills. "I think he’s going to take this run game to another level," Griffith said. "He is so quick, and he’s so patient as a runner." The BTN crew all said Iowa will lose something without Brandon Wegher, who has left the team.
• Although Derrell Johnson-Koulianos didn't practice, the wide receivers had a very good practice overall. Marvin McNutt made the play of the day with a one-handed grab for a touchdown on a deep pass from Ricky Stanzi. McNutt, who stretched the field throughout last season, beat sophomore corner Micah Hyde on the play. Keenan Davis also looked good and made several good catches. "He's poised for a big year," DiNardo said of Davis. "He's probably going to be the third receiver."
• Stanzi had a decent day overall, showing good touch on fade routes and threading the needle on some passes in individual drills. His performance in team drills was a bit concerning, as he made a risky throw over the middle and was intercepted by Shane DiBona on a likely pick-six on the final play. Stanzi still makes a few throws that leave you scratching your head. He told the BTN about the importance of squaring his hips and shoulders to his target, and moving his feet correctly. Backup quarterback James Vandenberg showed good mobility in the pocket.
• DiNardo is a big fan of Ferentz's, saying, "Nobody can run a better practice." He also talked extensively about Iowa being able to handle the hype and expectations this year. "If Iowa wants to prove they’re a champion, they listen to their coach and they don't listen or believe what they read," DiNardo said. My take: if Iowa doesn't win this fall, it won't be because of getting carried away in the hype. This team has great leadership and a no-frills approach to the game. If the Hawkeyes stumble, it'll be because they're not good enough. "Grinding every day, that beats complacency," defensive end Adrian Clayborn told the BTN crew.
• It was a lot of fun watching the two lines compete, especially the matchup between Clayborn and left tackle Riley Reiff, who left a very good impression with DiNardo and Griffith. Guard Julian Vandervelde did a nice job of sealing off defensive tackle Karl Klug on one play, while end Broderick Binns beat his man on another play. DiNardo pointed out that Iowa's defensive linemen consistently keep their pads under those of the O-linemen. The Big Ten Network singled out Reiff, defensive lineman Mike Daniels and offensive linemen James Ferentz and Adam Gettis for their play. "I think this offensive line, at the end of the day, is going to be fine," DiNardo said. Added Griffith: "It’s not a concern for me any more."
• We didn't see much from the back seven on defense, although Jeremiha Hunter had a nice pass breakup in team drills. Cornerback Micah Hyde was DiNardo's pick for under-the-radar player, and the crew also likes linebacker James Morris, one of the true freshmen who will see the field this fall.
• Freshman tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz is absolutely enormous, and should see some action this fall. "There's no way he's [just] 250," Griffith joked.
• Kirk Ferentz still seemed a bit concerned about the kicking game and finding more depth along the offensive line, but he seemed pleased with the team's attitude amid the expectations.

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

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.

The thought first dawned on me late Friday afternoon in Columbus, as large groups of reporters circled around Ohio State linebackers Ross Homan and Brian Rolle after practice. Finally, Homan and Rolle were getting the attention they deserved.

One problem you encounter when a league boasts so many elite players at one position is that most of them tend to get overlooked. The Big Ten had three consensus selections for first-team all-conference in 2009: Michigan State's Greg Jones, Penn State's Navorro Bowman and Iowa's Pat Angerer. I'd put those three against any group in college football, and I'd like my chances. If you're running a 3-4 scheme, toss in Wisconsin linebacker Chris Borland, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2009.

But the performances of Jones, Bowman, Angerer and Borland overshadowed guys like Homan. How many linebackers record 108 tackles, five interceptions, 10 passes defended, five tackles for loss, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries and don't make first-team all-conference?

The good thing for Homan is he has another season to get the attention he deserves. The same can't be said for Minnesota's all-senior linebacking corps of Nate Triplett, Lee Campbell and Simoni Lawrence, each of whom ranked among the Big Ten's tackles leaders last fall. Or Indiana's Matt Mayberry, a blog favorite who flew under the radar. Or Iowa's A.J. Edds, who finished the season with five interceptions and nine passes defended. Penn State's Josh Hull got some love with a second-team All-Big Ten pick from the coaches, but his value to the defense wasn't really known outside Happy Valley.

Those players have moved on, but here are a few linebackers who will step into the spotlight in 2010:

Ross Homan, Sr., Ohio State
2009 stats: 108 tackles, 5 interceptions, 10 passes defended, 5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries

Brian Rolle, Sr., Ohio State
2009 stats: 95 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, 2 passes defended

Quentin Davie, Sr., Northwestern
2009 stats: 90 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 6 quarterback hurries, 1 interception

Jason Werner, Sr., Purdue
2009 stats: 77 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception, 3 passes defended

Eric Gordon, Sr., Michigan State
2009 stats: 92 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 blocked kick

Jeremiha Hunter, Sr., Iowa
2009 stats: 89 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 blocked kick, 1 interception, 5 passes defended

Mike Taylor, So., Wisconsin
2009 stats: 46 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception, led the team in tackles before suffering season-ending injury against Iowa on Oct. 17.

Tyler Replogle, Sr., Indiana
2009 stats: 80 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 1 interception, 2 pass breakups

Joe Holland, Jr., Purdue
2009 stats: 81 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 1 interception, 2 passes defended

Ian Thomas, Jr., Illinois
2009 stats: 95 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 4 passes defended, 1 sack, 1 fumble recovery

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."

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

Kudos and criticism from last week's Big Ten games.

Note: most of the thumbs up go to players or units I haven't already recognized (helmet stickers, players of the week, etc.)

Thumbs up, Jared Odrick and Navorro Bowman -- Sure, it came against Eastern Illinois, but Odrick finally turned in a dominant performance. The Lions defensive tackle recorded 3.5 tackles for loss, including two sacks, and broke up a pass in Penn State's 52-3 win. Bowman has been brilliant since his return from a groin injury and had two tackles for loss and a 91-yard fumble return for a touchdown.

Thumbs down, Indiana's defensive line -- Facing a Virginia team that ranked 119th nationally in sacks allowed, Indiana failed to capitalize on a favorable matchup. The Hoosiers recorded only two sacks and allowed 47 points and 536 total yards in an embarrassing loss.

Thumbs up, Kevin Whaley -- Minnesota fans had been clamoring to see more of the redshirt freshman running back, and they got their wish against Purdue. Whaley sparked the run game with 79 rush yards and a touchdown on only eight carries (9.9 ypc).

Thumbs down, Michigan's linebackers and safeties -- A tight end should never get as open as Iowa's Tony Moeaki did on Saturday night, much less twice. Michigan failed to mark Moeaki and paid the price as he hauled in easy touchdown passes of 34 and 42 yards.

Thumbs up, Ross Homan -- One of several standout defenders for Ohio State against Wisconsin, Homan recorded a career-high 15 tackles, including two sacks, and had a forced fumble and a pass breakup. He surpassed his previous career high in tackles by five as Ohio State bent but didn't break.

Thumbs down, Illinois' coaching staff -- To fall behind 14-0 on your home field in a must-win game indicates a breakdown in preparation. To not score a first-half touchdown in four games against BCS opponents is the biggest indictment of this staff. Sure, the players deserve some blame as well, but talent is being wasted every time this team steps on the field.

Thumbs up, Jeremiha Hunter -- Hunter entered the season with less hype than fellow linebackers Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds, but he has been the group's top playmaker. He recorded 12 tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery against Michigan. Remember that Hunter recorded the all-important second field goal block in the opener against Northern Iowa.

Thumbs down, Northwestern's offensive line -- The Wildcats desperately wanted to spark their rushing attack against one of the nation's worst teams but failed. Despite 41 rushing attempts and numerous personnel groupings, the Wildcats couldn't break through against Miami (Ohio). A veteran-laden group should be performing much better.

Thumbs up, Sherrick McManis -- McManis is the biggest difference maker on Northwestern's defense, which has boosted its play the last two weeks. McManis recorded an interception, a forced fumble and two pass breakups against Miami (Ohio). I'm convinced if he had been healthy against Syracuse, NU would have won the game.

Thumbs down, Purdue's special teams -- For the second straight week, the third phase really let down the Boilers, who had a field-goal attempt blocked and returned to the end zone. Given that Purdue actually has a special teams coordinator in J.B. Gibboney, the Boilers should be performing much better in this area.

And one more ...

Thumbs up, Pat Narduzzi -- The Michigan State defensive coordinator has turned things around nicely the last two weeks. Michigan State recorded six sacks and an interception returned for a touchdown against Illinois. Aside from the final five minutes of regulation against Michigan, the defense has been superb since the Wisconsin game.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

The Big Ten schedule-makers haven't been particularly kind to Iowa the last decade or so, and they saved the biggest challenge for 2009.

In Kirk Ferentz's 11 seasons as Hawkeyes head coach, Iowa has started Big Ten play on the road nine times. Ferentz jokingly calls the road openers a tradition, though he wouldn't mind breaking it after all these years.

	Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
	Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz' Hawkeyes impressed in their first conference match up of the season.

The trips haven't been easy. Iowa opened at No. 18 Michigan in 2004, at No. 8 Ohio State in 2005 and at No. 9 Wisconsin in 2007. This season's Big Ten opener called for a visit to No. 5 Penn State.

So how did the Hawkeyes respond to their latest league-opening road test? By sending a message to the schedule-makers and the rest of the Big Ten.

Bring. It. On.

"It really gives us a lot of confidence," running back Adam Robinson said after Iowa's 21-10 victory at Beaver Stadium. "We know we're a team who makes a lot of mistakes, but we correct those mistakes from week to week. And we know if we play together, we can compete with anybody."

In the short term, the "who" mattered most for Iowa on Saturday night. The Hawkeyes took down a top 5 team and vaulted from unranked to No. 13 nationally.

In the long term, the "where" and the "how" will truly serve Iowa as it aims for a Big Ten title, and possibly more. Penn State had lost only two home games since 2004, both to top 5 opponents (Michigan and Ohio State).

Nittany Lions fans turned out in force for the Whitehouse, many wearing T-shirts with Iowa crossed out and the message "Pay Backs Are Hell," a reference to last year's Iowa victory at Kinnick Stadium. If the noise wasn't bad enough, Iowa had to contend with nasty weather throughout the game.

"It was a great football environment," Ferentz said. "We knew it would be. We asked our team to enjoy that, too. This is pretty rare and pretty unique, so if you like football at all, that's got to get your blood going.

"This is what football is all about, a great football crowd, a great football tradition here. If that doesn't bring out the best in you, maybe you shouldn't be playing."

(Read full post)

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- You're not supposed to get a block in punt safe.

The very nature of the coverage scheme calls for the receiving team to set up its blocking and ensure a quality return. The punter doesn't get all day back there, and a handful of players are sent blitzing toward him, but no one ever expects a block.

Fortunately for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Adrian Clayborn doesn't think this way.

	Don McPeak/US Presswire
	Iowa's Adrian Clayborn blocked a punt and returned it 53 yards for a touchdown.

"They teach us to go hard every play because you never know what's going to happen," the Iowa junior defensive end said. "If I didn't go hard that play, who knows the outcome?"

If Clayborn doesn't go hard, Iowa might not secure a 21-10 win against Penn State. If Clayborn doesn't go hard, the Hawkeyes might not be a legit Big Ten title contender.

If Clayborn doesn't go hard, Iowa might not notch a defining road win against a top-5 team, the program's first since 1990 against Illinois.

"For some reason, I was confused," Hawkeyes wide receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos said. "I'm like, 'Is this happening?' It didn't seem like it was supposed to happen."

It wasn't, but it did, and Clayborn's punt block early in the fourth quarter totally changed the complexion of the game. For the second time in this young season, special teams helped secure a victory.

But unlike the season opener, in which Iowa needed two blocked field goals to survive a scare from FCS Northern Iowa, Clayborn's block made a national statement that these Hawkeyes are for real.

"It was just a great play," running back Adam Robinson said. "From that point, our team was a different team."

Iowa's coaches teach their players to go "six seconds of Hell on every snap." As Clayborn lined up for the Penn State punt, he decided to make things hellish for Nittany Lions safety Nick Sukay.

Darrell Wilson, Iowa's linebackers and co-special teams coach, told Clayborn that Sukay lined up deep, giving the rushers a chance to penetrate. Clayborn capitalized and bulldozed Sukay, leaving punter Jeremy Boone like an unprotected king on the chessboard.

The only thing better than the block was the bounce, which went right to Clayborn.

"I honestly don't remember catching it," he said. "I remember being in the end zone with people trying to tackle me."

Clayborn's 53-yard path to the end zone felt like a blur. Looked like one, too.

"I've never seen a play like that by a big guy," head coach Kirk Ferentz said.

"He's a monster," linebacker Jeremiha Hunter said.

Clayborn blocked a field goal as a redshirt freshman in 2007, but he hadn't scored a touchdown since his high school days in St. Louis, when he played both linebacker and tight end.

"That was 40 pounds ago," Clayborn joked.

The extra bulk has served the 282-pound Clayborn well, especially in big games. He set the tone for last year's win against Penn State by sacking quarterback Daryll Clark near the goal line and forcing a fumble on the third play of the game. Clayborn had six tackles, two for loss, in the win.

After a slow start against Northern Iowa, he picked things up last week with a forced fumble, a sack and three quarterback hurries in a win over Arizona.

"He's our undisputed leader right now," defensive tackle Christian Ballard said. "We all rally around him. He's the general for the D-line. We look for him to get us going when we're down."

Clayborn provided the lift Iowa needed, though the magnitude of the moment didn't hit him after the game ended.

"Me, I'm still soaking it in," he said. "It's a huge win for our team, the state of Iowa, everybody. We're enjoying it. We're just a little shocked, and glad we pulled it out."

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

It's a good thing TV cameras were present at Kinnick Stadium last Saturday to capture the final seven seconds of Iowa's matchup against Northern Iowa.

Without video evidence, it might be hard to convince the outside world of what actually happened.

"I've never seen stuff like that," Iowa linebacker A.J. Edds told me. "If you tried to make a movie with that script, I don't think anybody would believe it."

Edds was on Iowa's field-goal block team as Northern Iowa's Billy Hallgren set up for a potential game-winning 40-yard attempt with his team trailing 17-16. Hawkeyes defensive lineman Broderick Binns blocked Hallgren's kick, and the ball fluttered behind the line of scrimmage.

Edds estimates that any of the 11 Iowa defenders could have scooped up the ball, but they chose to stay away, normally the wise move after a blocked kick. But since the ball never crossed the line, Northern Iowa recovered and got another chance because it was only first down.

Hallgren lined up from 41 yards out, but linebacker Jeremiha Hunter came up with another block, which sealed the victory for Iowa.

"I haven't been a part or around, or even heard of anything similar to that," Edds said. "To have it happen once is pretty long odds. And then to emotionally flush the first [block] and try to find a way to do it again, it leaves you speechless. Big play. We would have loved to not be in that situation, but we were and we found a way to get it done."

Edds had always been instructed to stay away from a blocked kick unless he could easily scoop up the ball and run. He imagines the wild finish will be used by numerous coaches to teach their players the little-known rule about blocked kicks behind the line of scrimmage when it isn't fourth down.

"That's a situation where you live and learn," Edds said. "It's a situation where you don't want to live through it again, but now we know what has to happen.

"After we got the second block, Pat [Angerer] jumped on it. We tried to leave nothing to chance on that one. We had a couple guys jump on. I jumped on Pat to make sure we took care of it."