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The Big Ten on Wednesday announced its 2011 Medal of Honor winners. This award goes to a male athlete and a female athlete from each Big Ten school and recognizes a graduating senior who has "demonstrated proficiency in scholarship and athletics."

Five Big Ten football players are among this year's male Medal of Honor winners.

They are:

• Indiana QB Ben Chappell
• Iowa G Julian Vandervelde
• Penn State G Stefen Wisniewski
• Purdue TE Kyle Adams
• Wisconsin T Gabe Carimi

All five players also were named to the Big Ten's fall Academic All-Big Ten team.

Congrats to all the winners.

The 2011 NFL draft is in the books, and it's time to take a look back at how the Big Ten fared in the selections. In case you missed it, check out my breakdown of the six Big Ten players who heard their names called in the first round.

All in all, 29 Big Ten players were drafted this year. New Big Ten member Nebraska had seven selections.

Let's start off with a rundown of the picks. I'll have some quick thoughts after each round.

First round

• Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt, Houston, No. 11 overall
• Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan, Washington, No. 16 overall
• Illinois DT Corey Liuget, San Diego, No. 18 overall
• Iowa DE Adrian Clayborn, Tampa Bay, No. 20 overall
• Wisconsin LT Gabe Carimi, Chicago, No. 29 overall
• Ohio State DE Cameron Heyward, Pittsburgh, No. 31

Quick thoughts: The Big Ten had its largest first-round output since 2007, and several players look like good fits for their teams. Chicago had to be thrilled Carimi was still available, and San Diego felt the same about Liuget, projected by many as a top-15 pick. Kerrigan likely needs to contribute immediately for the Redskins, while Clayborn and Heyward enter situations where they can ease into the transition.

Second round

• Wisconsin TE Lance Kendricks, St. Louis, No. 47 overall
• Penn State G Stefen Wisniewski, Oakland, No. 48 overall
• Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure, Detroit, No. 57 overall
• Michigan LB Jonas Mouton, San Diego, No. 61 overall

Quick thoughts: Mouton's selection was a surprise for many folks, but it's a testament to a good player who impressed the scouts despite playing for a lousy defense in 2010. Wisniewski enters a good fit in Oakland, where his uncle, Steve, is an assistant offensive line coach. I really like Leshoure in Detroit, where he'll enter a competitive situation at running back.

Third round

• Illinois LB Martez Wilson, New Orleans, No. 72 overall
• Wisconsin G John Moffitt, Seattle, No. 75 overall

Quick thoughts: Wilson, who entered the draft after his junior season, might have been a bit disappointed to fall to the third round. But he enters a good situation in New Orleans and should have some time to develop.

Fourth round

• Iowa DL Christian Ballard, Minnesota, No. 106 overall
• Ohio State CB Chimdi Chekwa, Oakland, No. 113 overall
• Indiana LT James Brewer, New York Giants, No. 117 overall
• Indiana WR Tandon Doss, Baltimore, No. 123 overall

Quick thoughts: Ballard reportedly tested positive for marijuana use and likely paid a price as he dropped down at least a round. Still, the Iowa standout should help the Vikings early in his career. I really like the Doss fit in Baltimore, which can use more playmakers at receiver. It'll be interesting to see how quickly Chekwa sees the field in Oakland.

Fifth round

• Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi, Kansas City, No. 135 overall
• Iowa DE Karl Klug, Tennessee, No. 142 overall
• Ohio State S Jermale Hines, St. Louis, No. 158 overall
• Iowa G Julian Vandervelde, Philadelphia, No. 161 overall

Quick thoughts: What a round for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Although Stanzi waited a little longer than expected, he joins a team in Kansas City that has a lot of connections to the New England Patriots, the squad many thought would draft the Iowa quarterback. Klug is a solid player who can play either line position. I'll be interested to see how he fares with the Titans.

Sixth round

• Penn State RB Evan Royster, Washington, No. 177 overall
• Michigan State LB Greg Jones, New York Giants, No. 185 overall
• Michigan State CB Chris L. Rucker, Indianapolis, No. 188 overall
• Ohio State LB Brian Rolle, Philadelphia, No. 193 overall
• Iowa S Tyler Sash, New York Giants, No. 198 overall
• Ohio State LB Ross Homan, Minnesota, No. 200 overall
• Michigan G Stephen Schilling, San Diego, No. 201 overall

Quick thoughts: This marked the Big Ten's biggest round as seven players heard their names called. Jones, the former Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, went a little later than expected, and Sash also dropped down a bit after entering the draft after his junior season. Homan, who missed some time last season with a foot injury, could end up being an excellent addition for the Vikings. Really like that pick.

Seventh round

• Illinois LB Nate Bussey, New Orleans, No. 243 overall
• Wisconsin G/C Bill Nagy, Dallas, No. 252 overall

Quick thoughts: While I was surprised several other Big Ten players didn't get drafted, both Bussey and Nagy are deserving. Both players played integral roles in their teams' success last fall, and both were overshadowed by other draftees (Liuget and Wilson for Bussey, Carimi and Moffitt for Nagy).

NEBRASKA'S DRAFTEES

Husker fans, I didn't forget you or your team. Nebraska actually had more draft picks (7) than any Big Ten team, and here they are.

• CB Prince Amukamara, New York Giants, No. 19 overall (first round)
• RB Roy Helu Jr., Washington, No. 104 overall (fourth round)
• K Alex Henery, Philadelphia, No. 120 overall (fourth round)
• DB Dejon Gomes, Washington, No. 146 overall (fifth round)
• WR Niles Paul, Washington, No. 155 overall (fifth round)
• OT Keith Williams, Pittsburgh, No. 196 overall (sixth round)
• DB Eric Hagg, Cleveland, No. 248 overall (seventh round)

Quick thoughts: Think there might be a few "Husker Power!" chants at Redskins games this season? The Mike Shanahan-Bo Pelini connection likely played a role in the three Nebraska players heading to the nation's capital. Henery soon will succeed David Akers in Philadelphia, and the Giants had to thrilled that Amukamara still was on the board at No. 19.

Big Ten picks by team

• Nebraska: 7 (players competed in the Big 12)
• Iowa: 6
• Ohio State: 5
• Wisconsin: 5 (four picks in first three rounds)
• Illinois: 4
• Michigan State: 2
• Indiana: 2
• Michigan: 2
• Penn State: 2
• Purdue: 1
• Northwestern: 0
• Minnesota: 0

By position (excluding Nebraska)

• DL: 7
• OL: 7
• LB: 6
• DB: 4
• RB: 2
• WR: 1
• TE: 1
• QB: 1

Nebraska had three defensive backs, a running back, an offensive lineman, a wide receiver and a kicker drafted.

Draft snubs

Quite a few Big Ten players didn't hear their names called during the weekend, and they'll enter the shaky world of free agency. I was absolutely stunned no one drafted Ohio State's Dane Sanzenbacher. He was the Big Ten's top receiver last fall and brings a combination of football IQ and toughness that should appeal to football people not overly obsessed with measurables.

Wisconsin running back John Clay was the Big Ten's only non-senior who entered the draft but didn't get selected. Clay struggles with weight and his ankle problems might have contributed to him slipping through the draft.

Other Big Ten draft snubs include: Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien, Ohio State guard Justin Boren, Iowa tight end Allen Reisner and Purdue receiver Keith Smith. Nebraska's Pierre Allen and Ricky Henry also will go the free-agent route.

When I first started working here, an 8-year-old Shirley Temple taught me how to roll a cigarette.

• Things were a little awkward at first when former Michigan teammates Stephen Schilling and Justin Boren reunited at the NFL combine, Ken Gordon writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Penn State's uniforms likely will become even more basic in 2011. Lions running back Evan Royster recognizes the need for speed at the combine, Jeff Rice writes in the Centre Daily Times.
• Wisconsin's Gabe Carimi isn't lacking confidence at the combine, saying he's the best tackle in the draft, Aaron Wilson writes in the National Football Post.
• Michigan AD Dave Brandon says the school "isn't messing around" with Greg Mattison's lucrative contract, Angelique Chengelis writes in The Detroit News. Jim Harbaugh was "very interested" in the Michigan job but couldn't pass up the NFL, Dave Birkett writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Iowa receiver Marvin McNutt reportedly underwent hand and shoulder surgery. Allen Reisner hopes to continue Iowa's tradition of producing NFL tight ends, Chris Nielsen writes in the Des Moines Register. Some interesting quotes from Iowa offensive lineman Julian Vandervelde.
• Big Ten associate commissioner Mark Rudner talks with Off Tackle Empire about expansion, division alignment, scheduling and other topics.
• Six Big Ten venues appear in Dennis Dodd's list of top 25 college football stadiums.
• After my Michigan State sport ID debate, The Daily Gopher wonders what sport best defines Minnesota's program.
• Damarlo Belcher and his Indiana teammates are slimming down before spring ball, Pete DiPrimio writes in The (Fort Wayne) News-Sentinel. Hoosiers players are tired of losing and willing to buy in to Kevin Wilson and the new staff, Dustin Dopirak writes in The (Bloomington) Herald-Times (subscription required).
• USC's hiring of former Nebraska assistant Ted Gilmore is now official.
• Purdue coach Danny Hope discusses Al-Terek McBurse's apparent departure and the waiting game for receiver Keith Smith, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• Michigan State's Kirk Cousins will be speaking about football and faith tonight.

Don't forget: Big Ten chat is happening right now!

• Iowa players talk about the grueling workout that likely put 12 team members in the hospital, Tom Witosky writes in the Des Moines Register. Hawkeyes offensive lineman Julian Vandervelde tells the Associated Press the workouts aren't used for punishment.
• A full breakdown of Big Ten recruiting, headlined by Ohio State and Nebraska, from colleague Jamie Newberg.
• Michigan is building some late recruiting momentum with a big day Tuesday, Mark Synder writes in the Detroit Free Press. Former Wolverines quarterback Tate Forcier is considering both FBS and FCS programs for his next destination, colleague Joe Schad reports.
• Part of Michigan's recruiting success (QB Russell Bellomy) comes at Purdue's expense, although the Boilers did bolster their return game Tuesday, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• New Minnesota defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys discusses the Gophers' future here and here with the (St. Paul) Pioneer Press' Marcus Fuller.
• Northwestern is closing in on former Indiana assistant Dennis Springer as its new receivers coach, Teddy Greenstein writes in the Chicago Tribune.
• Nebraska is targeting a kicker who could succeed superstar Alex Henery, Brian Christopherson writes in the Lincoln Journal Star.
• Who were the Big Ten's worst head coaches since 1993?
• An interesting look at where Penn State gets its recruits from JoePa's Dog House. Penn State football turns a nice profit in 2010.
• Illinois defensive end Clay Nurse will participate in the Texas vs. The Nation all-star game, Bob Asmussen writes in The (Champaign) News-Gazette.

Some trends in the Big Ten seem to defy explanation, and Iowa finds itself on opposite sides of two of them.

The Hawkeyes have won eight of their last nine meetings against Penn State, including each of the past three contests. Iowa derailed Penn State's national title hopes in 2008, reshuffled the Big Ten race with a win in Happy Valley last fall and held Penn State without a touchdown in a dominating win Oct. 2.

Joe Paterno has lost more games to Iowa (11) than any other team in his head-coaching career except for Ohio State (13).

But it has been a very different story for Iowa against Northwestern. The Wildcats have won four of the teams' past five meetings, including three at Kinnick Stadium, where Iowa is 49-10 since 2002. Northwestern ended Iowa's perfect season in 2009 with a 17-10 come-from-behind win at Kinnick. Kirk Ferentz is just 4-5 against Northwestern as Iowa's coach.

"I really couldn't tell you why we've had so much success against Penn State and not so much against Northwestern," Iowa senior guard Julian Vandervelde said this week. "I really do think it comes down to the little details, the mistakes, the fundamentals and the basics. Year in and year out, we're able to execute against Penn State and not so much against Northwestern."

Iowa needs a polished performance Saturday as it visits Northwestern. The 13th-ranked Hawkeyes remain very much in the Big Ten title race, but they can't afford to slip up, especially as next week's home showdown against No. 9 Ohio State looms.

By most accounts, Saturday's game is one Iowa should win. The Hawkeyes are more experienced on both sides of the ball. Iowa's biggest strengths (the play-action pass and a pressuring defensive line) match up well against two of Northwestern's weaknesses (the secondary and the offensive line). Iowa has more at stake and should have no trouble getting motivated after the struggles.

But the Hawkeyes know what should happen and what does happen are two different things, especially in this series.

Many have tried to explain Northwestern's recent success, even pointing to the Hayden Fry-Gary Barnett exchange after the 1994 Iowa beatdown of Northwestern as the start of a shift (Northwestern is 8-5 against Iowa since 1995).

Iowa has dealt with key injuries in the last two losses -- running back Shonn Greene in 2008 and quarterback Ricky Stanzi in 2009 -- but Northwestern also played most of last year's game without star quarterback Mike Kafka. Northwestern running back Adonis Smith was quoted this week as saying coach Pat Fitzgerald "hates Iowa," but does that matter on the field?

The real explanation, according to Ferentz, is pretty simple.

"They have done a good job of playing the way you're supposed to play and we haven't," he said. "I think we have had nine turnovers and they have had two in two years. ... On top of that, we screwed up on special teams, several times, a couple years ago. To me, that's been the story of it. You've got two even teams. One team played clean, played really well and the other team didn't and it's pretty academic who is going to win or lose."

Iowa has looked uncharacteristically sloppy against NU, but Vandervelde says there's no mental block against playing the Wildcats.

"People don't expect them, for some reason, to come out and swing as much as they do and hit as hard as they do," he said. "Sometimes it catches people by surprise, I think. They're smart guys, they're going to watch tape and figure out what you do, so you really can't make mistakes. You have to be ready for everything they're going to bring.

"Having played them for a couple of years now, I'm well versed in their style of play and I won't be surprised by anything, hopefully."

Nine Big Ten players are among the 121 semifinalists for the 2010 William V. Campbell Trophy (formerly the Draddy Trophy), which is known to many as the "Academic Heisman."

Each NCAA school is limited to one nominee, who "must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of eligibility, have a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, have outstanding football ability as a first-team player or significant contributor, and have demonstrated strong leadership and citizenship." The semifinalists include 47 FBS players, so it's a pretty impressive percentage from the Big Ten.

Here are the Big Ten's semifinalists:

• Illinois P Anthony Santella
• Indiana QB Ben Chappell
• Iowa G Julian Vandervelde
• Minnesota QB Adam Weber
• Northwestern K Stefan Demos
• Ohio State G Bryant Browning
• Penn State G Stefen Wisniewski
• Purdue TE Kyle Adams
• Wisconsin QB Scott Tolzien

A list of 15 finalists will be announced Oct. 28, and the winner will be named Dec. 7 in New York. Former Ohio State quarterback Craig Krenzel was the last Big Ten recipient in 2003.

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.

2009 overall record: 11-2

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

Returning starters

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

Top returners

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

Key losses

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

2009 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Adam Robinson* (834 yards)

Passing: Ricky Stanzi* (2,417 yards)

Receiving: Derrell Johnson-Koulianos* (750 yards)

Tackles: Pat Angerer (145)

Sacks: Adrian Clayborn* (11.5)

Interceptions: Tyler Sash* (6)

Spring answers

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

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

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

Fall questions

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

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

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

Before we get ready for a six-pack of spring games Saturday, let's take a quick look back at the final Big Ten scrimmage from a week ago.

Iowa wrapped up spring drills at Kinnick Stadium, and while it was more of a regular practice than the other spring games, the Hawkeyes did a bit of scrimmaging.

Iowa's top three running backs -- Adam Robinson, Brandon Wegher and Jewel Hampton -- missed the scrimmage as they recover from injuries, but quarterback Ricky Stanzi played and completed 7 of 11 passes for 72 yards. Backup James Vandenberg completed 13 of 22 passes for 144 yards. True freshman A.J. Derby twice was picked off by safety Nick Nielsen in limited work.

The Hawkeyes spread the ball around to several receivers. Starter Derrell Johnson-Koulianos recorded a 32-yard reception, while walk-on Don Nordmann had five catches for 49 yards.

Linebacker Troy Johnson stood out for the defense with a sack and a 48-yard touchdown return following a fumbled snap between Vandenberg and center James Ferentz.

Other Iowa nuggets:

• The kicking game is a bit of a question mark after starter Daniel Murray converted only 3 of 7 attempts in the scrimmage. Trent Mossbrucker fared better, hitting on 4 of 5 attempts. "It's kind of been underwhelming this spring, quite frankly," Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said. "We've been very inconsistent. We've flashed, but we've been very inconsistent." Mossbrucker was the team's top kicker for most of the 2008 season and will push Murray for the starting job in preseason camp.
• Another Iowa running back got a bit banged up, as Brad Rogers left the field with a left ankle injury that head coach Kirk Ferentz called a mild sprain. Wegher and Paki O'Meara got banged up during spring drills, although Hampton was fine and held out of contact only as a precaution. Still, running back health is a concern entering the fall.
• The top offensive line consisted of left tackle Riley Reiff, left guard Julian Vandervelde, center James Ferentz, right guard Adam Gettis and right tackle Markus Zusevics. Josh Koeppel remains in the mix at center.

For the first time since spring practice began at Iowa, we got to hear from head coach Kirk Ferentz, who Tuesday participated in the Big Ten coaches' teleconference.

Not surprisingly, I asked Ferentz about Iowa's offensive line, which has been and will be the team's biggest question mark between now and the season opener Sept. 4 against Eastern Illinois. The Hawkeyes lose four players with starting experience up front -- Bryan Bulaga, Kyle Calloway, Dace Richardson and Rafael Eubanks -- and need to fill three starting spots and build depth.

Ferentz has seen some separation this spring, as six linemen are creating some distance from the pack. Along with tackle Riley Reiff and guard Julian Vandervelde, who have combined for 35 career starts, Ferentz signaled out guard Adam Gettis, tackle Markus Zusevics and center Josh Koeppel and James Ferentz, who are in a tight race this spring.

"Gettis and Zusevics, both of those guys have been in the program," Ferentz said. "Gettis played more than Markus did last year. He played an awful lot of football because Julian was coming off his [pectoral] tear. He really played pretty well last year, and both those guys have potential to be good Big Ten linemen. And then at the center position, it's kind of a dead heat right now.

"Those six guys have operated pretty well, and they're going against good competition, so we're getting a fair evaluation."

After the top six, there are some question marks as Iowa tries to build depth. Ferentz identified guard Cody Hundertmark, a converted defensive linemen, as the closest to being game ready. Hundertmark has showed good ability but is still trying to bring it all together to fit with the scheme.

"We've got some ground to make up in terms of depth," Ferentz said. "I go back to my time here [as offensive line coach] in the '80s, maybe outside of one year, it's always been an issue. We're not uncommon there with any program in the country.

"Our first-line guys are progressing, doing a pretty good job. We've got to keep bringing them along."

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."

The spring superlatives series marches on, as I take a look at the strongest position and weakest position for each Big Ten team entering spring practice.

Up next is Iowa, which returns 14 starters from a team that went 11-2 and won an Orange Bowl championship last season. The Hawkeyes are especially strong at defensive line, safety and the offensive skill spots, but they need to reload at offensive line and linebacker.

Strongest position: Defensive line

• Key returnees: Defensive end Adrian Clayborn (70 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 9 quarterback hurries, 1 blocked kick); defensive end Broderick Binns (63 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 9 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, 1 blocked kick); defensive tackle Karl Klug (65 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 5 passes defended); defensive tackle Christian Ballard (54 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 5 quarterback hurries).
• Key losses: None
• The skinny: The Hawkeyes will boast arguably the nation's best defensive line in 2010, as all four starters return from a group that changed games last fall. Clayborn should contend for All-America honors after being one of the Big Ten's most disruptive defenders last fall. Binns also changed games with several big plays, and all four men contributed to a defense that ranked 10th nationally in yards allowed (276.5 ypg) and eighth in points allowed (15.4). Depth is a mini concern entering 2010, but Iowa boasts so many playmakers among the starting four that it should be fine.

Weakest position: Offensive line

• Key returnees: Tackle Riley Reiff, guard Julian Vandervelde
• Key losses: Tackle Bryan Bulaga, guard Dace Richardson, center Rafael Eubanks, tackle Kyle Calloway
• The skinny: Offensive line is undoubtedly the single biggest question mark for Iowa in 2010 as four players with significant starting experience depart, as well as a few reserves. The good news is head coach Kirk Ferentz has a good track record of filling gaps up front. Reiff emerged nicely during Bulaga's three-game absence in 2009 and will play a critical role in protecting quarterback Ricky Stanzi in 2010. Vandervelde also brings experience to the interior line, but Iowa needs more bodies there. Bulaga was the team's most decorated O-lineman, but Eubanks could end up being the toughest one to replace. Keep an eye on players like Josh Koeppel, Adam Gettis, Markus Zusevics and Kyle Haganman this spring.

Sorry this is coming a bit late. Been hanging with the Badgers all afternoon in Madison.

Andrew from Laingsburg, Mich., writes: I have no reason to doubt your claim that Jim Harbaugh could be Michigan?s top choice but there are a couple reasons that I?m not sure Harbaugh would want the job. First, wasn?t he just courted by the Bills (and Raiders)? I find it hard to believe that a coach would turn down an NFL job to take the same position at any college, the following season. Secondly, Michigan is not stocking the cupboard for a pro-style offense. They are recruiting lots of skill position guys but few linemen. Additionally, the linemen they are getting are generally of the smaller / faster variety. Harbaugh would have trouble meeting expectations for three or four seasons - when his linemen recruits start being productive. He?s a smart guy and must realize this.

Adam Rittenberg: Harbaugh clearly could go to the NFL if he wants, but Michigan isn't exactly any old college job, especially to Harbaugh, who attended U-M. He's turned down enough opportunities to make me think he'd be very interested in an opening at U-M, should one become available. Now you're absolutely right about Michigan going away from the pro-style offense with its recruiting under Rich Rodriguez, who pioneered the spread. Would Harbaugh want to step into a team recruited for Rodriguez's system? It could dissuade him, but he seems like a pretty confident guy in his own recruiting abilities. And if Michigan brought him in, I think the school would be somewhat patient, especially if things really go south this fall. Then again, Michigan runs the risk of falling off the map for some time with a bunch of mediocre seasons.

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Luke from Philly writes: Hey Adam,Quick thing - thanks for the update on Jim Tressel's contract - but at the end of the article, you listed his accomplishments and left off one of the most important: his record against the Wolverines! What the heck?!I am aghast!

Adam Rittenberg: Ha, I almost included the Michigan record but had to race out the door to get to Madison. As most Big Ten fans know, Tressel owns an 8-1 against Ohio State's archrival, including wins in each of the last six games. That is unprecedented in the series. His only loss to the Maize and Blue took place in 2003, a 35-21 Wolverines victory in Ann Arbor.

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Bart from Columbus writes: According to your own rankings OSU has a fairly weak team this year in terms of talent, with one player in the top ten and zero in the top five. If the Buckeyes finish first or second this year do you think that would be enough for Tressel to win Big ten Coach of the year? If not what do you think it will take? Is it even possible considering that OSU hasn't received CotY honors for 30 years? Can the award even be taken seriously in light of that statistic?

Adam Rittenberg: Ohio State might have lacked a ton of superstar players in 2009, but by no means were the Buckeyes a "fairly weak team." They did only have one consensus first-team All-Big Ten selection in Kurt Coleman, so if there ever were a year for Jim Tressel to win Coach of the Year, it was 2009. Unfortunately, Tressel fights the perception that Ohio State always has the most, if not the second most talent in the Big Ten every season. Ohio State once again will be the preseason favorite this fall, and no one will be shocked if the Buckeyes win another league championship. Will it preclude Tressel from winning Coach of the Year? We'll see, but fairly or unfairly, he always fights an uphill battle for that award. I think the more media members know he has never won Coach of the Year, the better his chances are of claiming the award at some point.

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Sammy from Bloomington, Ind., writes: Adam,Indiana is having their spring game at night. I think this is an awful idea. What do you think? Also, can if IU does not make a bowl game is Lynch out?

Adam Rittenberg: It's funny how Big Ten fans want more night games during the season but don't seem to want a spring game held at night. The weather issue certainly is a factor, as late April days can be a lot more pleasant than late April nights. Mgoblog's Brian Cook outlines the downsides here, and I agree that a night spring game would work better in, say, Gainesville, then up here in Madison. As for Bill Lynch's future, I could see him surviving with five wins this year, but it would be a tough decision. Indiana has to show more tangible improvement, and a bowl appearance certainly would keep Lynch around. They didn't do him any favors by moving the Penn State game to FedEx Field, but Lynch needs to show he's a guy who can get IU over the hump.

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Tim from Bloomington, Ill., writes: Adam,As a Hawkeye fan, I feel very good about next year regarding the players that are returning. It could be a very special season for the Hawkeyes. My major concern is filling the holes left from this year's class on the offensive line. Your thoughts?

Adam Rittenberg: Totally agree with you about the offensive line, Tim. Iowa really has only two players (Riley Reiff and Julian Vandervelde) who have logged significant playing time up front. But the Hawkeyes' tradition of developing linemen and even Reiff's emergence last year gives me confidence that things will be OK this fall. Bryan Bulaga and Dace Richardson both are pretty big losses, and it'll be interesting to see who becomes the Reiff of 2010.

As promised, we'll begin the mailblog with a few takes on the Purdue Pete makeover and move on from there.

Craig from St. Paul, Minn., writes: In high school I worked as Bugs Bunny for the Warner Brothers Studio Store. Do you know how many children broke into tears when their parents brought them anywhere close to me? Hundreds, and I was dressed as Bugs Bunny. Doesn't get less scary than that.Purdue is overreacting to a bunch of overprotective parents that can't have their precious little snowflake unhappy for even a millisecond.

Daniel from Lakewood, Ohio, writes: Purdue Pete is there to scare the children away from going to Purdue so that they go somewhere more fun. He serves an important purpose. Sparty is still the king of mascots.

Adam Rittenberg: I don't see a pressing need for a change, but I'm not getting tons of phone calls like AD Morgan Burke. As long as Purdue Pete doesn't lose his sledgehammer -- which he reportedly will keep -- I'm willing to wait and pass judgment later on the new design.

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Peter from Stamford, Conn., writes: Adam - anyone who lives in the New York City area knows that NO one in Manhattan cares about Rutgers football except their alums. And even many of their alums don't care. NYC is a pro football town, they don't care about college. So why does the Big Ten keep insisting that Rutgers "brings" the NYC television market?

Adam Rittenberg: Rutgers is a strong academic fit for the Big Ten, and its location near the New York City market certainly appeals to some folks in the Big Ten. But I still look at the entire Rutgers athletic program, and even the school's limited positive history in football, and wonder if RU is the best single, realistic addition for the Big Ten, as both Notre Dame and Texas seem to be off the table. Greg Schiano has got a good thing going in football, and the women's basketball program has done well, but I'm not sure the entire department could cut it in the Big Ten. Rutgers has finished 92nd and 126 in the Directors' Cup in the last two seasons, well outside the Big Ten's range. Some will argue, "Who cares about the department if Rutgers football is a strong fit?" They might be right, but I tend to agree with Peter that Rutgers will have a hard time consistently capturing the New York market.

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Peter from Arlington, Va., writes: Why is Maryland never considered for Big10 expansion? Its a good school, borders PA, and draws the DC/Baltimore TV audience?

Adam Rittenberg: I've wondered the same thing at times, Peter, but Maryland has expressed no interest in leaving the ACC, where it has a lot of traditional ties. Plus, Maryland's football program hasn't been able to sustain success, and football drives the bus for most of the Big Ten expansion candidates being mentioned. There would be a natural tie with Penn State, and Big Ten coaches would love another reason to recruit the DC/Maryland area, one of the top regions for high school talent. I wouldn't totally write off Maryland, but I doubt the school is high on the Big Ten's list of candidates.

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Ron from Madison, Wis., writes: Please explain all the love for Iowa for next season. I understand that their defense will be good again, but their scoring offense ranked 10th in the conference last season and Stanzi threw as many INTs as TDs, so I can't imagine they'll improve with 4 new starters on the O-line. Considering that Iowa's last second wins against the Spartans and UNI could easily have been losses, I see them losing a couple more games next fall after their usual losses to Northwestern and Ohio State. How about you?

Adam Rittenberg: Iowa will have arguably the best defensive line in America next fall, and the Hawkeyes remain very strong at several skill positions, namely safety, running back and wide receiver. Ricky Stanzi's roller-coaster play is well documented, but the guy wins games and steps up in the fourth quarter. You do raise an excellent point about the offensive line, and if Iowa doesn't reload there, nothing much else will matter. But you also need to look at Iowa's history at offensive line under Kirk Ferentz. Aside from the miserable 2007 performance, the unit has performed good to great in recent years. Iowa has two players with significant experience in Riley Reiff and Julian Vandervelde. Building around them will go a long way toward determining success or failure in 2010. Also remember that the schedule flips, so Iowa gets to host both Ohio State and Wisconsin (and Penn State) this fall.

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Steve from Chicago writes: Hey Adam,How important is NU returning its entire offensive line to helping improve our terrible running game? Obviously we need one of our current players or new recruits to step up, but will the veterans on the OL be able to give them a boost?

Adam Rittenberg: It's very important that Northwestern has a lot of experience back, but those veterans need to start performing like it in 2010. Pat Fitzgerald really challenged the group in 2008, but the run game never really got going. Someone certainly needs to emerge from the running back pool, but NU's line needs to make rushing the football a point of pride. Former head coach Randy Walker was known for producing 1,000-yard rushers, but he did arguably his best working challenging the offensive linemen and their position coach, who would put extra pressure on them to step up. With so much uncertainty at QB, WR and RB, Northwestern's offensive line must carry the unit early in the season.

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.