ESPN College Football

Schedule: Ohio State's first preseason practice takes place today in Columbus.

What's new: Not that much. Jim Tressel's staff remains intact, and Ohio State returns 16 starters, including 10 on offense. The only spot that sees a decent amount of turnover is safety, as the Buckeyes lose both Kurt Coleman and Anderson Russell. They also will have a new look along the defensive line, although Cameron Heyward is a familiar face, one opposing offensive linemen won't be happy to see.

Sidelined: Ohio State is healthy entering camp, although the Buckeyes are down a running back as Jermil Martin will transfer. The Scarlet and Gray will have incoming freshman running back Rod Smith on the field after Smith met his academic requirements.

Key battle: Let's start at kicker, a position that always means a lot to a Tressel-coached team. Aaron Pettrey departs, and Devin Barclay needs to rebound after struggling at times this spring. Punter Ben Buchanan and freshman Drew Basil are possibilities if Barclay can't hold down the top job. The other key battle takes place at left tackle, as junior Mike Adams tries to lock up a starting spot ahead of Andrew Miller and others.

New on the scene: Ohio State isn't deep at wide receiver and could find room for James Louis and Corey Brown. Defensive back Christian Bryant will have a chance in the secondary, and linebacker David Durham also might make an early impact. Carlos Hyde could work his way into a crowded mix at running back after enrolling a year later than expected. Basil will be a factor on special teams.

Back in the fold: Tyler Moeller is cleared for full contact after suffering a head injury last summer as an assault victim. Moeller played linebacker early in his career, but was on track for a possible starting job at safety in the spring of 2009. As Ohio State looks to replace Coleman, Moeller might be the answer.

Breaking out: Everyone is raving about sophomore defensive lineman John Simon, a weight-room superstar who saw some action last season. There also was some buzz this spring about linebacker Etienne Sabino, who should join Ross Homan and Brian Rolle in the starting lineup. Ohio State needs a No. 3 wide receiver, and watch out for redshirt freshman Chris Fields.

Quotable: "We're a very capable team. I think we should be a team that's being targeted. I know we'll be a team that's being targeted. And we'll always get everyone's best shot. And with that in mind, we better make sure our best shot's ready each Saturday. But it's just part of the deal." -- head coach Jim Tressel

In a move that won't surprise many folks, Ohio State running back Jermil Martin has decided to transfer.

Martin appeared in three games last season and rushed for 84 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. Buckeyes coach Jim Tressel told reporters Tuesday that playing time was a factor in Martin's decision. Martin will transfer after he restores his academic eligibility.

"Jermil is a little bit caught in between being a fullback and a tailback," Tressel said. "And we've got a pretty good group both places, so that makes it more difficult."

Ohio State remains well stocked at the running back position, and Zach Boren and Adam Homan will handle fullback duties in 2010.

Ohio State doesn't know if it has an Eddie George or an Archie Griffin or a Beanie Wells on the roster.

None of the Buckeyes' current running backs has distinguished himself as a potential featured guy. Then again, several candidates haven't had the chance to do so ... yet.

What Ohio State knows it has at running back is options. Lots of them. More than they've had in recent memory.

"Without question," offensive coordinator Jim Bollman said when asked if this is the most running back depth Ohio State has had during his tenure. "Going into [spring practice], yeah. There's some good depth at tailback, a position where you always need to have it."

Senior Brandon Saine and junior Dan "Boom" Herron entered spring practice atop the depth chart after combining for 1,339 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on 307 carries in 2009. Neither man has established himself as a featured back, but both came on strong late in the season.

Saine had 232 rushing yards on 37 carries (6.27 ypc) in Ohio State's final three games, wins against Iowa, Michigan and Oregon. He had several breakaway runs against the Hawkeyes and Wolverines, and his true versatility showed in the Rose Bowl, as he caught two passes for 59 yards and a score. Herron, primarily a between-the-tackles runner, also had multiple receptions in his final two games last fall, and Bollman hinted that both backs would play larger roles in the passing game this fall, especially since Ohio State is thinner at wide receiver than running back.

"There's a lot of knowledge on what Boom and Brandon can do," Bollman said. "Should we have them carry the ball 50 times a day? I don't know if that accomplishes what we or they need. To help them increase their overall knowledge of the game, blitz pickup, being a bigger part of the passing game, trying to extend those guys that way is one way for us to approach things. And really test some of the younger guys carrying the ball."

Who are the young guys? Get out a pen and a big sheet of paper.

Jordan Hall stepped up nicely as a true freshman last fall, rushing for 248 yards on 48 carries (5.2 yards per rush). Sophomore fullback Jermil Martin brings a big body (5-foot-10, 235) to the backfield and averaged 7.6 yards per carry as a redshirt freshman in 2009.

Then there's redshirt freshman Jaamal Berry, the most talked-about back on the Buckeyes' roster. Fans wanted to see Berry last fall, but a nagging hamstring injury kept him sidelined. The heralded recruit from Miami is now in a position to compete for carries.

"He showed flashes of some things he can do," Bollman said, "but [he's] got to improve, got to become much more consistent, a guy that everybody can trust. Jordan got a lot of game experience, much more than he or us probably would have thought, and did a really good job. He really had an outstanding year last year.

"Those are a couple good guys to be battling for those next couple spots."

Carlos Hyde, another 2009 recruit, also is in the mix after spending last year at Fork Union Military Academy to boost his academics. Ohio State signed two more backs in February: decorated recruit Roderick Smith and Adam Griffin, the son of Archie.

"When you have all those guys, the secret is everybody progressing as a team," Bollman said. "If everybody starts worrying about how many touches they're getting, then it's easy for the whole thing to come apart at the seams. You've got to stay unified and understand roles."

Let's get right to it.

Eric from Knoxville writes: Hey Adam, i'm a lifetime UM and BIG 10 fan and i think all the talk about expansion is great for the league in a lot of ways. I'm just wondering why i dont hear more about Nebraska. I read about Tom Osborne's thoughts in the lunch links today and coudn't help but wonder. Any thoughts?

Adam Rittenberg: We've definitely explored Nebraska here on the blog, and to recap, I think the Huskers bring a name football program, a good academic reputation, a solid overall athletic program and a below-average TV market to the Big Ten. Nebraska certainly would help from a football standpoint as a national power that seems to be on the rise again. The Huskers also excel in other sports like baseball but need to elevate their profile in men's basketball. If the expansion decision comes down to TV, which I hear it likely will, Nebraska doesn't add a market like Rutgers could. Osborne definitely sounds willing to listen to the Big Ten, and he should.

---

Eric from Lansing, Mich., writes: i know there are still 5 spots left in the top 30. but the only one i could think of making it still from my spartans is Jones. but even i dont think he is one of the top 5 of the conference. so how worried should i be about my team that no one still with the team cracked the top 30? oh and love the blog. i know no questions get through without the lip service.

Adam Rittenberg: First off, to Eric and to everyone, you don't need to tell me you love the blog to get in the mailblog. In fact, tell me you hate the blog if it's the truth. I want good questions, first and foremost. As for Michigan State, you'll see Greg Jones in the top 5. He was the Big Ten preseason Defensive Player of the Year and the co-postseason DPOY. Michigan State likely will have a few more players in the 2010 preseason top 30, but I'm not giving away any secrets now.

---

Jeff from Minneapolis writes: Adam, I totally agree with Frank the Tank's (the blogger, not the guy who wanted to go streaking through the quad up to the gymnasium) belief that the only purpose for the leaking of the Big Ten's report that they could make more money by adding Rutgers, Syracuse, or any number of schools was just a simple, and very public, message to Notre Dame and Texas saying this: while the conference could make the most money by adding one or both of them, they could still make a LOT of money without them. Simply put, it's a public way of saying that Texas and Notre Dame need the Big Ten a lot more than the Big Ten needs them. Thoughts?

Adam Rittenberg: Jeff, I was discussing this very topic with some folks who know the Big Ten well on Thursday, and then I saw Frank's blog entry. I thought a lot about this when the Big Ten announced its expansion study, whether it was a signal to Notre Dame, a last-chance proposition to join a league. Notre Dame still makes by far the most sense of any expansion candidate, and the Big Ten is a more attractive league now than it was the last time it approached the Irish. Notre Dame can increase its television revenue by joining the Big Ten. It also could increase the exposure for its non-revenue sports because of the Big Ten Network. Notre Dame should at least listen if the Big Ten reaches out. The Big Ten will be healthy if it expands, and healthy if it doesn't expand. It's not 100 percent necessary by any means.

---

Dave from Gold Coast, Australia, writes: Hey AdamLove reading your blog all the way here in Australia. Penn State usually has great depth at linebacker,Who did you think are the next guys to step up and continue the tradition of Linebacker U?

Adam Rittenberg: Dave, I've always wanted to visit Australia, and it's good to know there are Big Ten fans there. There's a lot of buzz among Penn State fans about Michael Mauti, who was really impressing people last summer before tearing his ACL. If Mauti's knee holds up, he'll certainly challenge for major playing time. Nate Stupar and Bani Gbadyu both got decent playing time in 2009, combining for 68 tackles. So I'd watch those two along with Chris Colasanti, Gerald Hodges and incoming freshman Khairi Fortt.

---

James from Key Largo, Fla., writes: What are the chances of seeing Carlos Hyde at OSU this year? I think he's the equal of a Clarett, as good as Chris Wells.

Adam Rittenberg: Hyde certainly will be in the mix this spring, James, but he's got to leapfrog several players to get significant carries. Brandon Saine has the best shot to claim a starting/featured role, along with Dan Herron. Jaamal Berry also is in the mix along with Jermil Martin and Jordan Hall. Hyde certainly generated some hype as a recruit, as did Berry, but he'll need a very strong spring to work his way into the mix.

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.

Coming to you a day early because of the holiday.

Matt from Marshalltown, Iowa, writes: With the expansion, should the Big Ten look more to add a team from the Big 12 (Missouri or Nebraska) then the others? With a Big 12 move then they could add TCU and shake up the conferences a bit to balance them out, which could make a domino effect and maybe Pac-10 and Big East could look to expand. What are your thoughts on what would be the easiest transistions for all the conferences for which ever way the Big 10 selects

Adam Rittenberg: Matt, while I agree a Big 12 team to the Big Ten would create an interesting domino effect, the Big Ten isn't simply looking to make a move that will balance out the other leagues. The Big Ten will try to add a team that best fits its interests (academics, athletic success, fan following, TV market, etc.). But if the Big Ten adds, say, Missouri, you could definitely see TCU to the Big 12 and maybe Utah and/or BYU to the Pac-10. It'd be pretty exciting.

---

James from Wheaton, Ill., writes: Hi Adam - hope you're staying safe and dry in Chicago. I've observed the Big 10 expansion comments and concluded that the top two benefits would be:1. Expanding to 12 team gives the Big 10 (12) the capability to host a conference championship game to be competitive with the SEC, Big 12, ACC, etc.2. Expanding allows the Big 10 (12) to continue playing into December, thus minimizing the long layoff between Thanksgiving weekend football and bowl games.Given the difficulty of cleanly dividing the league into divisions, why doesn't the Big 10 simply push the schedule back one week (each team would take a bye during the season) to allow for the final regular season game to be played during the first week of December (a la the Big East)? Are financial benefits of market expansion just too great to ignore?

Adam Rittenberg: You're right about the two primary objectives for the Big Ten in expansion. I'd throw in the opportunity to expand its TV reach with the Big Ten Network. The league certainly would want to strengthen its presence in a TV market or add a new one. Now the Big Ten will add a permanent bye week next year and regularly finish the regular season after Thanksgiving. What you're asking for is two bye weeks and the final weekend of regular-season play in December. I've heard that Ohio State and Michigan would never go for this -- there's enough grumbling about playing The Game after Thanksgiving -- but others in the league could be open to it.

---

Buck from Missoula, Mont., writes: Adam- Do you feel the Glenville High School Pipeline is still a good situation for Ohio State? Ted Ginn's dad coaches there (for those who don't know), and the Buckeyes have pulled tons of players from there. It is like "Dr. Krop High School" of Ohio. But since Ginn Jr. exploded on the OSU scene,the players since seem to drastically underachieve, almost like they think they are already stars. Rob Rose was a 5 star recruit, and Ginn Sr. said Ray Small was "the best receiver I've ever coached". All they have done is cause problems for the program. It seems to be going down hill. Your thoughts?

Adam Rittenberg: Very interesting point, Buck. I wouldn't give up on the Glenville pipeline just yet, as guys like Jermale Hines, Jermil Martin, Bryant Browning and Marcus Hall are or will be key contributors for Ohio State. But Small and Rose certainly disappointed a lot of people, not only because they were big-time recruits but because they couldn't avoid Jim Tressel's doghouse. There are certainly some inherent risks with players from that area, but Glenville also produces a ton of talent, and Ohio State will continue to go back to the well.

---

Steve from St. Paul, Minn., writes: Adam, that passage about the monkey and your grampa has me concerned. That was just an active mind providing a little narrative writing to help us through the dark days, right? You're actually OK, right?Cool. I'll play along: I am hoping that the the really pretty girl (Nebraska) gets invited to the dance, and that she accepts. But I know that there are a few homely girls (Rutgers, Mizzou, Pitt) who have rich daddies (TV markets) that may leave a fella prosperous but slack in the shanks, so to speak. The pretty girl would give the Rittenberg division some much needed va-va-voom, eh?

Adam Rittenberg: That active mind was Kenneth Parcell's, not mine. So rest assured, I'm somewhat mentally there. After seeing Forbes' rankings of the most valuable college football programs, Nebraska certainly adds a lot on the gridiron. The Cornhuskers might lack a little in the other sports, namely men's basketball, but they're a big-name program in football and always will be. Nebraska would have a great rivalry with Iowa, especially if both programs continue to surge. Ultimately, the rich daddies (TV markets) could prevail, but I think the Big Ten should strongly consider the Huskers.

---

Sean from Stamford, Conn., writes: Adam, I understand that the Iowa Defensive Coordinator a versus Georgia Tech triple option is a good coaching matchup, along with the other matchups that you mentioned, but when you post a video titled "Great bowl coaching matchups" How do you leave Joe Paterno vs. Les Miles out of the conversation. As a Penn State alum, I admit that I am biased, and I would rank that matchup as #1; but how do you leave the all time winningest coach versus Les Miles, aka the Mad Hatter, a coach that has perfect record at his current school (which includes multiple BCS games)? This is a coach who is synonymous with tradition and old-school versus a coach that is synonymous with risk taking.

Adam Rittenberg: Sean, I'm a bit lukewarm on the JoePa-Hat matchup. Sure, both guys win bowl games, but from a strategic standpoint, I'm more intrigued with the matchups I listed in the video. Paterno's assistants do most of the work during games, much like Bobby Bowden's at Florida State, and Miles' biggest decisions this year drew nationwide ridicule after the loss to Mississippi. Now if I was ranking the most interesting coaching matchups at the pre-bowl news conferences, Paterno-Miles would be at the top. But when it comes down to the styles of play, I'm more excited about the other three pairings.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

You're all thumbs.

Thumbs up, Jaycen Taylor: The senior might never be Purdue's No. 1 running back, but he has never quit despite plenty of adversity. Taylor had a 44-yard touchdown run against Illinois and finished the game with six carries for 72 yards as he provided a second rushing threat.

Thumbs down, Michigan's Robinsons: It was a rough day for the Robinsons against Penn State. Quarterback Denard Robinson committed turnovers (one interception, one fumble) on his only two series. Defensive coordinator Greg Robinson saw his defense break down multiple times and surrender 14.4 yards per pass.

Thumbs up, Andrew Brewer: The Northwestern senior has gone through a position change from quarterback to wide receiver and a major injury in 2007, but he never lost faith. Brewer came up huge in the historic comeback against Indiana, recording eight receptions for 135 yards and a touchdown.

Thumbs down, Bill Lynch: The Indiana coach didn't help his team during a second-half collapse with two questionable fourth-down calls. Rather than taking three points to increase Indiana's lead to 31-19, Lynch went for a fourth-and-goal and the Hoosiers couldn't get in. Northwestern responded with a 98-yard touchdown drive. Later in the game, Indiana could have pinned NU deep but went for a fourth-and-3 from the Wildcats' 33-yard line and failed.

Thumbs up, Jermil Martin: Martin provided Ohio State's offense with another rushing threat against Minnesota, rushing for 75 yards and a touchdown on seven carries. The fullback-tailback hybrid showcased his strength in breaking several tackles on a 39-yard scoring run.

Thumbs down, Minnesota's coaches: For a staff that supposedly recruits well, the Gophers seem awfully thin on game-changing skill players. Wide receiver Eric Decker can't be the entire offense, especially since he's now hurt and will be gone after the season. The Gophers need to identify more weapons before facing another good defense Saturday.

Thumbs up, Andrew Quarless: Things haven't exactly been smooth for Quarless at Penn State, but the tight end is starting to get it. He hauled in a 60-yard touchdown pass from Daryll Clark and also had a 31-yard reception in the win at Michigan. Quarless will be a weapon for Penn State down the stretch.

Thumbs down, Illinois' run defense: The Illini couldn't slow down Purdue's Taylor, Ralph Bolden and even quarterback Joey Elliott, who finished with 62 rush yards and a touchdown. Illinois now ranks 101st nationally in rush defense after surrendering 220 yards to Purdue. That's not a good sign with Michigan coming to town.

Thumbs up, Mikel LeShoure: I've been tough on Illinois this season, but LeShoure deserves some credit for solid performances the last two weeks. He had 122 rush yards on only 15 carries against Purdue.

And, finally ...

Thumbs up, Adam Robinson: Robinson is an unsung hero for Iowa this season after taking over for the injured Jewel Hampton. The redshirt freshman rushed for 109 yards against Michigan State despite suffering a sprained ankle. He ranks fourth in the league in rushing average.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Quick thoughts on the three Big Ten games that just wrapped up.

Ohio State 38, Minnesota 7: Terrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes really needed a performance like this one. After a sluggish first half, Ohio State took control when Minnesota fumbled the opening kickoff to the second half. Pryor seemed more assertive as a runner today, racking up 104 yards and a touchdown, and Jermil Martin, a fullback-tailback hybrid, provided a major lift in the final 30 minutes with 75 rush yards and a touchdown. Ohio State's defense had another huge day, forcing four Minnesota turnovers and nearly posting its third shutout of the season. The Gophers once again looked lost on offense and nearly went scoreless for the second straight game. I don't know what's up with quarterback Adam Weber, one of the league's most experienced signal callers, but he needs to pick up his play in a hurry. It was terrible to see star wideout Eric Decker go down with a leg injury, and Minnesota once again failed to find a second option. Backup quarterback MarQueis Gray should see more action in the coming weeks.

Northwestern 29, Indiana 28: There's usually some drama when these two teams get together, and today's game provided plenty. It sure didn't seem that way as the Hoosiers streaked out to a 28-3 lead behind tremendous special teams play and running back Darius Willis. But Northwestern once again showed incredible resiliency and never gave up. You rarely see a team rally for a win when it trails 28-3 and loses the turnover battle 3-0, but the "Cardiac Cats" lived up to their reputation. Pat Fitzgerald's defense turned in a dominant second half, highlighted by a goal-line stand after an interception. The Wildcats' special teams rebounded with a punt block, and Stefan Demos hit his second game-winning field goal of the year. The game reminded me a lot of Michigan State's historic comeback against Northwestern in 2006. But this time, the Wildcats were on the winning end. Indiana head coach Bill Lynch made several questionable decisions down the stretch, and the Hoosiers had no timeouts in the final moments.

Purdue 24, Illinois 14: The Boilers continued their momentum from last week's huge upset of Ohio State, while Illinois suffered its sixth double-digit loss despite competing in the second half. Purdue's two-headed running attack of Ralph Bolden and Jaycen Taylor combined for 149 rush yards and two scores, and the offense committed no turnovers, which certainly is a change from earlier in the season. Once again, the Boilers defense secured the win by keeping Illinois out of the end zone. Ron Zook rotated quarterbacks Juice Williams and Jacob Charest, with Williams leading two scoring drives. Despite a big game from running back Mikel LeShoure, Illinois couldn't capitalize on opportunities in Purdue territory. The heat rose a bit higher on Zook, who desperately needs wins.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

It's amazing to think Minnesota had a chance against Ohio State today.

The Gophers evidently fumbled away that chance on the kickoff to begin the second half, and the Buckeyes, to their credit, haven't looked back. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor has turned in arguably his best half of the season as Ohio State has surged to a comfortable lead.

Pryor finally seems to be taking the initiative as a runner, eclipsing the 100-yard mark rushing. Though Brandon Saine hasn't busted out, bruiser Jermil Martin came up big with a 39-yard touchdown scamper.

As for Ohio State's defense, it turned in another dominating performance against a hapless Gophers offense. Minnesota looks totally lost without wide receiver Eric Decker, who has watched all of the second half from the sidelines on crutches. Adam Weber's season-long struggles have continued, and Minnesota will need to find some way to spark this unit next week against Michigan State.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

If Ohio State ever needed a huge performance from Brandon Saine, Saturday's game at Purdue would be the ideal time.

Running backs Dan Herron (ankle) and Jaamal Berry (hamstring) both will stay back in Columbus this weekend, while backup Jordan Hall missed practices Monday and Tuesday with the flu. Though head coach Jim Tressel doesn't sound concerned about Hall, the freshman might not be 100 percent Saturday (Big Ten Network, noon ET). Jermil Martin could play a bigger role as a reserve for the Buckeyes.

No matter what, Saine needs a good outing against a Purdue defense that ranks 10th in the league against the run (167.3 ypg).

Other items:

• Tressel said Thursday that tackle Jim Cordle will be back for the game and spell Mike Adams and J.B. Shugarts, though Andrew Miller won't be used much, if at all, after losing 18 pounds during a battle with the flu.
• Defensive tackle Dexter Larimore likely will miss the rest of the month with a sprained knee.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Running back depth could be an issue for No. 7 Ohio State on Saturday at Purdue (Big Ten Network, noon ET), but offensive line depth won't be.

The Buckeyes will be without sophomore running back Dan Herron, who reaggravated a left ankle injury against Wisconsin after carrying the ball only two times for eight yards. Herron originally hurt his ankle Sept. 26 against Illinois and sat out the next week at Indiana.

Head coach Jim Tressel said Tuesday Herron "probably got set back a week or two." Junior Brandon Saine will make his third consecutive start at running back, and freshman Jordan Hall will serve as Saine's backup. Tressel wants to get Jermil Martin more involved as well.

Meanwhile, the Jaamal Berry watch continues for Ohio State, which must decide soon whether to redshirt the heralded recruit, who has battled hamstring problems this season.

"I keep waiting for Jamaal Berry to be healthy because when he's been healthy he's been very, very good, but right now it's Brandon and Jordan," Tressel said. "But Jamaal Berry has been back, got a lot of reps."

Saine had a quiet game against Wisconsin (14 carries, 55 yards), but he should be able to handle the load.

Ohio State is getting healthier on the offensive line as tackles Andrew Miller (flu) and Jim Cordle (ankle) are expected to return this week. Miller and Cordle began the season as the starters, though sophomores J.B. Shugarts and Mike Adams have started the last few games.

It will be interesting to see what type of rotation the Buckeyes use at tackle or even guard, where Cordle has played before.

Bottom line: The Buckeyes offense needs a spark at Purdue after slipping to 10th in the Big Ten in total offense (338.3 yards per game) and last in pass offense (166.2 ypg).

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

Ohio State starting defensive end Cameron Heyward is still a bit limited in practice because of an ankle injury, and the junior might not be 100 percent Saturday for the season opener against Navy (ESPN, noon ET). But Heyward appears to be making a quick recovery.

"They kept saying let's give him two-thirds of the reps [Monday] and [defensive coordinator] Jim Heacock couldn't get him out of there, so he seemed awfully good," head coach Jim Tressel said Tuesday.

Left tackle Mike Adams is among several Buckeyes players who will miss Saturday's season opener. Tressel danced around questions asking if Adams has been suspended, only saying, "Well, he won't be with us this week, I can't really talk too much more."

Adams' status for next week's game against USC is also in doubt. Several media outlets have reported the sophomore is suspended, so don't expect him back until Week 3 against Toledo.

Other Ohio State players to miss the opener with injuries include freshman defensive end Melvin Fellows, freshmen defensive backs Orhian Johnson and Travis Howard and freshman running back Jermil Martin.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

The season is less than two weeks away and several Big Ten teams look readier than others. I'll be heading to Bloomington on Wednesday to spend some time with Bill Lynch and the Hoosiers before flying to Columbus on Friday to hang with Beanie Wells and the Ohio State Buckeyes. The blog also will feature interviews with head coaches Tim Brewster, Mark Dantonio and hopefully Kirk Ferentz, so check back.

A bit of a light day around the league, but here are the links:

• Decision-making is no longer a problem for Illinois quarterback Juice Williams, who performed well in Saturday's scrimmage, Mark Tupper writes. Continued growth this fall hinges on second- and third-year players, Shannon Shelton writes in the Detroit Free Press.
  
• A few notes from Indiana's Saturday scrimmage, including some big hits from Florida transfer Jerimy Finch, who awaits a decision from the NCAA on whether he can play this season.
  
• Iowa defensive tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul are different breeds, but they anchor the Hawkeyes defense after playing alongside each other for three years, Andy Hamilton writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. The Hawkeyes are looking for more consistency on special teams.
• Michigan held its media day on Sunday, and freshmen running backs Sam McGuffie and Michael Shaw were popular men, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press. Both backs are getting a long look as veterans Brandon Minor and Carlos Brown sit out with mild injuries. Coach Rich Rodriguez might use as many as 10 freshmen in the season opener as Michigan tries to answer numerous questions on offense, Bob Wojnowski writes in The Detroit News. The quarterback competition remains too close to call, John Heuser writes in The Ann Arbor News.
  
• After struggling in crunch time last season, Michigan State quarterback Brian Hoyer is simulating pressure situations in practice, Eric Lacy writes in The Detroit News. Hoyer has set the bar high for the season following so many near misses in 2007, Mike Lucas writes in The Capital Times.
  
• Minnesota tight end Jack Simmons is healthy and hopes to continue his family's legacy on the gridiron, Kent Youngblood writes in the Star Tribune. Watch out for another Gophers' legacy, as cornerback Marcus Sherels follows his big brother.
  
• Northwestern quarterback C.J. Bacher looks to be a better leader by making better decisions in the passing game, Shannon Ryan writes in the Chicago Tribune.
  
• Ohio State's offensive line stayed remarkably healthy last fall, but depth from a promising group of freshmen could loom large this year, Jason Lloyd writes in The Morning Journal. Fullback isn't a featured position in Ohio State's offense, but freshman Jermil Martin could be an asset in the backfield, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
  
• Running back Stephfon Green gets all the attention at Penn State, but don't forget about projected starter Evan Royster, whose smooth and powerful running style has impressed teammates, Rich Scarcella writes in the Reading Eagle.
• This could be trouble for Purdue, as running back Jaycen Taylor suffered a right leg injury in Saturday's scrimmage, WLFI-TV reports. Taylor showed his toughness last season by returning from a broken arm in just four weeks, but a leg injury is more significant.
  
• Wisconsin safety Jay Valai is eyeing a career in sports broadcasting, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Despite losing projected starter Aaron Henry to another knee injury, the Badgers' cornerbacks are looking fine, Jim Polzin writes in The Capital Times.