Big Ten: Nebraska Cornhuskers
Ohio State No. 1 in spring game attendance
May, 8, 2012
May 8
3:05
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
We always say around here that spring games are overrated from an information-gathering standpoint. Still, you can't blame fans for wanting to see their team in action, and those whose schools have new coaches were especially curious to see what things were looking like this spring.
That's one reason it's no surprise that Ohio State and Penn State had two of the three largest spring game crowds in the nation this year, according to Sports Business Daily.
The Buckeyes led the country in spring game attendance, with 81,112 coming out to get a glimpse of the new Urban Meyer regime. No one should be surprised by the passion for the Scarlet and Grey; Ohio State claims the all-time spring game record, with more than 95,000 showing up for the 2009 event.
Defending national champion Alabama was second with 78,526, followed by Penn State at 60,000. The Nittany Lions got a large turnout for Bill O'Brien's Beaver Stadium debut and the first spring game without Joe Paterno in half a century.
Spring game attendance is often largely dependent on the weather, and it must be said that weather conditions were truly terrible throughout most of the Big Ten for spring games. Rain and chilly temperatures were the norm, holding down crowds at places like Michigan and Michigan State. Storms canceled the Nebraska spring game, which surely would have been packed since the Huskers drew more than 66,000 last year and better than 77,000 the previous two spring games. Indiana and Purdue both moved their events indoors and mostly kept fans away to escape lightning.
So the numbers were lower than they should have been, but here is how other Big Ten schools ranked nationally in spring game attendance:
17. Michigan: 25,000
20: Michigan State: 20,000
31: Iowa: 15,000
36: Wisconsin: 10,479
53. Minnesota: 3,500
55. Illinois: 3,000
Note: Northwestern did not report its attendance for the spring game.
You can tell from this 2011 chart that the numbers were down from their averages in a lot of places. Let's hope for better weather next spring.
That's one reason it's no surprise that Ohio State and Penn State had two of the three largest spring game crowds in the nation this year, according to Sports Business Daily.
The Buckeyes led the country in spring game attendance, with 81,112 coming out to get a glimpse of the new Urban Meyer regime. No one should be surprised by the passion for the Scarlet and Grey; Ohio State claims the all-time spring game record, with more than 95,000 showing up for the 2009 event.
Defending national champion Alabama was second with 78,526, followed by Penn State at 60,000. The Nittany Lions got a large turnout for Bill O'Brien's Beaver Stadium debut and the first spring game without Joe Paterno in half a century.
Spring game attendance is often largely dependent on the weather, and it must be said that weather conditions were truly terrible throughout most of the Big Ten for spring games. Rain and chilly temperatures were the norm, holding down crowds at places like Michigan and Michigan State. Storms canceled the Nebraska spring game, which surely would have been packed since the Huskers drew more than 66,000 last year and better than 77,000 the previous two spring games. Indiana and Purdue both moved their events indoors and mostly kept fans away to escape lightning.
So the numbers were lower than they should have been, but here is how other Big Ten schools ranked nationally in spring game attendance:
17. Michigan: 25,000
20: Michigan State: 20,000
31: Iowa: 15,000
36: Wisconsin: 10,479
53. Minnesota: 3,500
55. Illinois: 3,000
Note: Northwestern did not report its attendance for the spring game.
You can tell from this 2011 chart that the numbers were down from their averages in a lot of places. Let's hope for better weather next spring.
I'm as cool as a cucumber in a bowl of hot sauce. (R.I.P, MCA).
- Montee Ball was cited for trespassing during a block party over the weekend. He'll have to pay a $429 fine.
- Nebraska snagged a defensive end right out of Texas A&M's backyard. Ron Brown wrote an open letter to the Lincoln Journal Star about his controversial stance. Check out Rick Reilly's piece on Brown and an openly-gay student he had an impact on.
- Bill O'Brien is helping the healing process with his Penn State caravan tour. O'Brien says he thinks the Nittany Lions should play Pittsburgh on an annual basis.
- No matter what the future playoff format looks like, Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis is committed to scheduling tough opponents. Former Spartans great Andre Rison is returning to campus as a student coach.
- Ed Warriner feels much better about the Ohio State offensive linemen now than when he arrived as position coach, when a few Buckeyes showed up late to their first meeting.
- Some of Michigan's early commitments, including David Dawson and Michael McCray II, starred at a recruiting event in Columbus. How about Stanford or USC for the Wolverines' future Pac-12 opponent?
- Minnesota will have to be selective as it faces some smaller recruiting classes in the near future. A few former Gophers got tryouts with the Minnesota Vikings.
- Illinois has had some star power but needs to build more depth, Loren Tate writes.
- Iowa's seniors spent their Saturday with some special kids from Camp Courageous.
"College Football Live's" panel of experts previews Nebraska's upcoming season.
The depravity and decadence of Derby weekend await me. But first: your emails.
Bryan from Chicago writes: Regarding your handicapping of the B1G race, I'm betting on all teams. With the odds you gave each team, if you add them up, the player has about a 33% advantage over the house! If you ever decide to open a casino, let me know and I'll be the first one in line. But, if I'm taking 1 team, betting with emotions I'm taking my Huskers -- hoping they can outscore a lot of teams this year. Betting with brains, I'm taking Wisconsin -- no Ohio State to worry about, gives them the easiest road to the title game and who knows once you get there, and 8-1 is a good payout.
Brian Bennett: In defense of my admittedly poor math skills, Indiana is much higher than the listed 99-to-1, but the toteboard can only handle double-digit numbers. And Ohio State's scratch threw off the odds. But I agree with you about Nebraska and Wisconsin being pretty good value plays. I'd add Penn State to that mix as well.
Brian from Newark, DE, writes: Am I the only person not completely overjoyed with this whole playoff deal? To me, it's a real stretch to call a two game tournament a playoff. There's four teams involved. Granted, that's double what the current system allows. But it's still not exactly opening the championship up like the basketball tournament does. All this really amounts to is one extra game for two teams. So can we stop calling it a playoff and start referring to it as what it really is: The one more game after the bowls so we can all make a little more money and appease the fans bowl?
Brian Bennett: Brian (great name, by the way, and correct spelling), I'm perfectly fine with the four-team format. It keeps the value of the regular season, keeps the season from dragging far into January and still opens the championship up to more teams. How many years have there been more than four legitimate national title contenders at the end of the year, anyway? I've never been in favor of a 16-team format because that's too many teams and not enough quality. An eight-teamer would be a lot of fun, and I think we will eventually see an expansion of any playoff system. But for now, while we can quibble with the details, let's rejoice that the sport is actually giving us something we want.
Zach from Lincoln writes: Why are we even listening to the "on campus semi-finals won't work" [sentiment]?? I understand they are worried about teams with small stadiums not being able to host large crowds, but how many times since the BCS model was created has 1 of those teams been #1 or #2? Zero is the correct answer. Also, even if one of these teams did eventually finish #1 or #2 doesn't the fact that college stadiums are in general larger than NFL stadiums make up for the fact that there could be a smaller venue every once in a blue moon?
Brian Bennett: Couldn't agree more with you, Zach. The capacity of the Superdome is just over 72,000, while Sun Life Stadium -- home of the Orange Bowl -- seats a little more than 75,000. There would be a whole lot more seats (and money to be made) with games at the Big House, Horseshoe, Bryant-Denny, etc. MGoBlog does a good job of breaking down the difference in capacity and how campus sites would have meant more, not less, seats during the BCS era in this post.
Josh S. ? @josh_sim writes: Re: Big 6. Won't voters change their voting patterns and work around the rules for best matchups?
Brian Bennett: That's a concern with any system, including the one we have now. Which is why we need to take this out of the hands of voters, especially one with obvious biases like the coaches themselves.
Roger from Denver, Colo., writes: Really, 25 [for Ohio State in your rankings]? Come on, Blue had the easiest schedule in the conference, barely beat an extremely down The Ohio State team and you have Blue ranked top 10 not to mention in ACC bowl game that they really lost but got a bogus call in their favor on a touchdown.
Brian Bennett: The mountain air might be getting to you, Roger. Fact is, Michigan went 11-2 last year while Ohio State was 6-7. Michigan brought back its coaching staff and arguably the most productive backfield in the league (Denard Robinson and Fitz Toussaint), while the Buckeyes will be going through a coaching transition and lack offensive playmakers. I like Ohio State to be much improved this season, and there's no question the team has talent. But given last year's results, I think a ranking at the bottom of the Top 25 is fair for this point in the year.
Dying for The Gophers To Be Relevant Again from Minneapolis writes: I find it interesting how people get excited about the new A.D. at Minnesota. Everyone is giddy over his fund raising abilities. Sure, raising funds is important for all programs, but winning is the key. Some would say that fund raising will help winning, I believe that winning will hep fund raising. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: An athletic director absolutely has to be able to do two things right: hire good coaches, and keep the money fountain flowing. Since Norwood Teague didn't hire Jerry Kill, the best thing he can do is make sure donations are coming in so the Gophers can keep up with facilities, salaries, etc. Winning solves a lot of ills, but ultimately that will be up to Kill and his staff to it make happen.
David from Houston writes: I just saw your 4/26 mailbag and the Wisconsin coach and AD answers concerning their non-conference scheduling. As a Badger, I'm calling "BS" on Bret Bielema. His answer of "people don't want to play here" may be right in some rare instances, but that is most definitely not what is going on with Badger scheduling. The real issues are this: 1) The Badgers will only play one road game per year (at least Barry was honest about that one). 2) Wisconsin is not willing to schedule more than one BCS opponent per season. They went through a nice stretch for 2001-2003 of playing two such schools, but that turned out to be an aberration. 3) They won't even do that if they think a future year's Big Ten Schedule is "too tough." See the 8-year postponement of the Virginia Tech games. ... The Pac-12 deal is nice, but this team is not going to then start scheduling 2 BCS foes each season. This will just take their one good game out of their hands, leaving them to deal with the 3 buy games each year.
Brian Bennett: David, I can understand your frustration as a fan in not getting to see great nonconference games at Camp Randall. At the same time, Wisconsin is not alone in only scheduling one BCS AQ school per year in its nonconference slate. In the Big Ten alone, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio State, Penn State and Purdue all only have one such opponent on their schedule this season. Indiana has none.
While I'd love to see the Badgers schedule more aggressively, it just doesn't pay many dividends for schools to do so. The Badgers went to the Rose Bowl the past two years and were a couple plays away from being in the national title mix both times. I hope the new playoff format rewards strength of schedule to encourage all teams to play better nonconference opponents.
Max from Madras, India, writes: Brian, what do you think is more detrimental to the season? QB competition and playing 4 guys in your spring game, a la PSU? Or pretty much knowing who your starter is going to be, and not having him for your spring game, a la MSU? Or at this stage does it really matter?
Brian Bennett: It's early enough to not really matter. Remember Wisconsin won the Big Ten last year, and its starting quarterback didn't arrive in Madison until the summer. But in the scenario you mention, I'd much rather be Michigan State. The Spartans know Andrew Maxwell will be their starter, and his injury wasn't serious. He's been in the program for four years, so playing in a spring game means very little. Penn State still doesn't seem to be settled at the position. Maxwell can confidently lead the offense all summer. I'm not sure any of Penn State's quarterbacks can do the same.
Paul from Orlando, Fla., writes: Last season, Nebraska had All Big Ten-caliber players at each level of the defense in Crick, David and Dennard. Although these players made major contributions in 2011, the defense ranked a mere 36th nationally in total defense; well outside the norm for a Pelini coached defense. It appeared, especially early in the season, that offensive coordinators could simply pick on the young guy lined up opposite Crick, David or Dennard and these players didn?t really impact their game plans. This spring Pelini has been vocal about how much he likes his secondary and expects the defensive line and linebackers to be a solid veteran group. Do you think having a veteran defense without any weak links and a potentially dominate group at one level of the defense can lead to a better 2012 defense despite the loss of such great players?
Brian Bennett: It's an interesting question, and one I've been thinking about a lot this season. In fairness to the 2012 Huskers, Crick, David and Dennard were never really all healthy at the same time. But a big problem, as you mentioned, was the obvious holes on that defense. Bo Pelini seemed optimistic this spring about the defensive play, but aren't all coaches optimistic in the spring? Still, I think this defense has a chance to be very solid. I just want to see a couple of players take the next step into becoming major difference-makers, whether that's a guy like Will Compton or Cameron Meredith or Daimion Stafford. You need special players to be a truly special defense.
Mr. Pewter from Farmland, Iowa, writes: I hate the new Cy-Hawk trophy. I am still going to rally around my family with a basket full of corn. Come with it now!
Brian Bennett: You keep raging against that machine.
Bryan from Chicago writes: Regarding your handicapping of the B1G race, I'm betting on all teams. With the odds you gave each team, if you add them up, the player has about a 33% advantage over the house! If you ever decide to open a casino, let me know and I'll be the first one in line. But, if I'm taking 1 team, betting with emotions I'm taking my Huskers -- hoping they can outscore a lot of teams this year. Betting with brains, I'm taking Wisconsin -- no Ohio State to worry about, gives them the easiest road to the title game and who knows once you get there, and 8-1 is a good payout.
Brian Bennett: In defense of my admittedly poor math skills, Indiana is much higher than the listed 99-to-1, but the toteboard can only handle double-digit numbers. And Ohio State's scratch threw off the odds. But I agree with you about Nebraska and Wisconsin being pretty good value plays. I'd add Penn State to that mix as well.
Brian from Newark, DE, writes: Am I the only person not completely overjoyed with this whole playoff deal? To me, it's a real stretch to call a two game tournament a playoff. There's four teams involved. Granted, that's double what the current system allows. But it's still not exactly opening the championship up like the basketball tournament does. All this really amounts to is one extra game for two teams. So can we stop calling it a playoff and start referring to it as what it really is: The one more game after the bowls so we can all make a little more money and appease the fans bowl?
Brian Bennett: Brian (great name, by the way, and correct spelling), I'm perfectly fine with the four-team format. It keeps the value of the regular season, keeps the season from dragging far into January and still opens the championship up to more teams. How many years have there been more than four legitimate national title contenders at the end of the year, anyway? I've never been in favor of a 16-team format because that's too many teams and not enough quality. An eight-teamer would be a lot of fun, and I think we will eventually see an expansion of any playoff system. But for now, while we can quibble with the details, let's rejoice that the sport is actually giving us something we want.
Zach from Lincoln writes: Why are we even listening to the "on campus semi-finals won't work" [sentiment]?? I understand they are worried about teams with small stadiums not being able to host large crowds, but how many times since the BCS model was created has 1 of those teams been #1 or #2? Zero is the correct answer. Also, even if one of these teams did eventually finish #1 or #2 doesn't the fact that college stadiums are in general larger than NFL stadiums make up for the fact that there could be a smaller venue every once in a blue moon?
Brian Bennett: Couldn't agree more with you, Zach. The capacity of the Superdome is just over 72,000, while Sun Life Stadium -- home of the Orange Bowl -- seats a little more than 75,000. There would be a whole lot more seats (and money to be made) with games at the Big House, Horseshoe, Bryant-Denny, etc. MGoBlog does a good job of breaking down the difference in capacity and how campus sites would have meant more, not less, seats during the BCS era in this post.
Josh S. ? @josh_sim writes: Re: Big 6. Won't voters change their voting patterns and work around the rules for best matchups?
Brian Bennett: That's a concern with any system, including the one we have now. Which is why we need to take this out of the hands of voters, especially one with obvious biases like the coaches themselves.
Roger from Denver, Colo., writes: Really, 25 [for Ohio State in your rankings]? Come on, Blue had the easiest schedule in the conference, barely beat an extremely down The Ohio State team and you have Blue ranked top 10 not to mention in ACC bowl game that they really lost but got a bogus call in their favor on a touchdown.
Brian Bennett: The mountain air might be getting to you, Roger. Fact is, Michigan went 11-2 last year while Ohio State was 6-7. Michigan brought back its coaching staff and arguably the most productive backfield in the league (Denard Robinson and Fitz Toussaint), while the Buckeyes will be going through a coaching transition and lack offensive playmakers. I like Ohio State to be much improved this season, and there's no question the team has talent. But given last year's results, I think a ranking at the bottom of the Top 25 is fair for this point in the year.
Dying for The Gophers To Be Relevant Again from Minneapolis writes: I find it interesting how people get excited about the new A.D. at Minnesota. Everyone is giddy over his fund raising abilities. Sure, raising funds is important for all programs, but winning is the key. Some would say that fund raising will help winning, I believe that winning will hep fund raising. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: An athletic director absolutely has to be able to do two things right: hire good coaches, and keep the money fountain flowing. Since Norwood Teague didn't hire Jerry Kill, the best thing he can do is make sure donations are coming in so the Gophers can keep up with facilities, salaries, etc. Winning solves a lot of ills, but ultimately that will be up to Kill and his staff to it make happen.
David from Houston writes: I just saw your 4/26 mailbag and the Wisconsin coach and AD answers concerning their non-conference scheduling. As a Badger, I'm calling "BS" on Bret Bielema. His answer of "people don't want to play here" may be right in some rare instances, but that is most definitely not what is going on with Badger scheduling. The real issues are this: 1) The Badgers will only play one road game per year (at least Barry was honest about that one). 2) Wisconsin is not willing to schedule more than one BCS opponent per season. They went through a nice stretch for 2001-2003 of playing two such schools, but that turned out to be an aberration. 3) They won't even do that if they think a future year's Big Ten Schedule is "too tough." See the 8-year postponement of the Virginia Tech games. ... The Pac-12 deal is nice, but this team is not going to then start scheduling 2 BCS foes each season. This will just take their one good game out of their hands, leaving them to deal with the 3 buy games each year.
Brian Bennett: David, I can understand your frustration as a fan in not getting to see great nonconference games at Camp Randall. At the same time, Wisconsin is not alone in only scheduling one BCS AQ school per year in its nonconference slate. In the Big Ten alone, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio State, Penn State and Purdue all only have one such opponent on their schedule this season. Indiana has none.
While I'd love to see the Badgers schedule more aggressively, it just doesn't pay many dividends for schools to do so. The Badgers went to the Rose Bowl the past two years and were a couple plays away from being in the national title mix both times. I hope the new playoff format rewards strength of schedule to encourage all teams to play better nonconference opponents.
Max from Madras, India, writes: Brian, what do you think is more detrimental to the season? QB competition and playing 4 guys in your spring game, a la PSU? Or pretty much knowing who your starter is going to be, and not having him for your spring game, a la MSU? Or at this stage does it really matter?
Brian Bennett: It's early enough to not really matter. Remember Wisconsin won the Big Ten last year, and its starting quarterback didn't arrive in Madison until the summer. But in the scenario you mention, I'd much rather be Michigan State. The Spartans know Andrew Maxwell will be their starter, and his injury wasn't serious. He's been in the program for four years, so playing in a spring game means very little. Penn State still doesn't seem to be settled at the position. Maxwell can confidently lead the offense all summer. I'm not sure any of Penn State's quarterbacks can do the same.
Paul from Orlando, Fla., writes: Last season, Nebraska had All Big Ten-caliber players at each level of the defense in Crick, David and Dennard. Although these players made major contributions in 2011, the defense ranked a mere 36th nationally in total defense; well outside the norm for a Pelini coached defense. It appeared, especially early in the season, that offensive coordinators could simply pick on the young guy lined up opposite Crick, David or Dennard and these players didn?t really impact their game plans. This spring Pelini has been vocal about how much he likes his secondary and expects the defensive line and linebackers to be a solid veteran group. Do you think having a veteran defense without any weak links and a potentially dominate group at one level of the defense can lead to a better 2012 defense despite the loss of such great players?
Brian Bennett: It's an interesting question, and one I've been thinking about a lot this season. In fairness to the 2012 Huskers, Crick, David and Dennard were never really all healthy at the same time. But a big problem, as you mentioned, was the obvious holes on that defense. Bo Pelini seemed optimistic this spring about the defensive play, but aren't all coaches optimistic in the spring? Still, I think this defense has a chance to be very solid. I just want to see a couple of players take the next step into becoming major difference-makers, whether that's a guy like Will Compton or Cameron Meredith or Daimion Stafford. You need special players to be a truly special defense.
Mr. Pewter from Farmland, Iowa, writes: I hate the new Cy-Hawk trophy. I am still going to rally around my family with a basket full of corn. Come with it now!
Brian Bennett: You keep raging against that machine.
Four Big Ten conference games have been selected to air in the afternoon on ABC this season. (The league's 2012 primetime schedule was announced last week).
Here is the list (all times ET):
Saturday, Oct. 6
Illinois at Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Saturday, Oct. 13
Illinois at Michigan, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Saturday, Oct. 27
Michigan State at Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Friday, Nov. 23
Nebraska at Iowa, Noon, ABC
Quick thoughts:
Illinois, which didn't get any primetime games on ESPN or ABC, will have two choice afternoon showcases on ABC. But both will be difficult road games. The Michigan State-Wisconsin game became an obvious 3:30 p.m. kick after it was not chosen for primetime (and as some readers have pointed out, that avoids a conflict with the Halloween party in Madison). Year Two of the "Heroes Game" between Nebraska and Iowa once again gets an afternoon spotlight on the day after Thanksgiving.
Here is the list (all times ET):
Saturday, Oct. 6
Illinois at Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Saturday, Oct. 13
Illinois at Michigan, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Saturday, Oct. 27
Michigan State at Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m., ABC
Friday, Nov. 23
Nebraska at Iowa, Noon, ABC
Quick thoughts:
Illinois, which didn't get any primetime games on ESPN or ABC, will have two choice afternoon showcases on ABC. But both will be difficult road games. The Michigan State-Wisconsin game became an obvious 3:30 p.m. kick after it was not chosen for primetime (and as some readers have pointed out, that avoids a conflict with the Halloween party in Madison). Year Two of the "Heroes Game" between Nebraska and Iowa once again gets an afternoon spotlight on the day after Thanksgiving.
Hey, didn't you use to be Albert Pujols?
- A group is considering a start-up bowl game in St. Louis that could include a Big Ten team.
- Michigan State fans should feel reassured by the play of Connor Cook in the spring game. The Spartans' fullbacks could give the offense a new dimension.
- Michigan coaches are pleased with the progress of centers Ricky Barnum and Jack Miller. Stacked with commitments for 2013, the Wolverines are already working hard on the '14 class.
- James Vandenberg will have to be a chemistry major while stirring a young Iowa offense.
- Jesse James hopes to make his own name at tight end for Penn State. Hershey lineman Andrew Nelson talks about his commitment to the Lions, plus some names the team is focusing on now in recruiting.
- Illinois reportedly picked up a defensive lineman.
- Former Indiana linebacker Jeff Thomas will get a shot with the Buffalo Bills (subscription required).
- The Big Ten Network's Tom Dienhart has a Q&A with Minnesota coach Jerry Kill.
- Former Nebraska stars Roy Helu and Prince Amukamara are hoping for bigger things in their second NFL seasons, though Amukamara already owns a Super Bowl ring.
- Northwestern got a commitment from an Illinois offensive lineman.
- Ohio Stadium has a story worth celebrating as it approaches its 90th anniversary.
- Former Wisconsin star Michael Bennett was charged with fraud.
Happy birthday to Rogers Hornsby, Ulysses S. Grant, Enos Slaughter, George "Iceman" Gervin, Chris Carpenter, Sheena Easton and ... I know I'm forgetting somebody. Who could it be?
- Illinois scored its first major recruiting victory with a commitment from dual-threat quarterback Aaron Bailey. A.J. Jenkins was caught off guard when he joined teammate Whitney Mercilus in the first round.
- Iowa got the go ahead to build phase two of its new football facility. Riley Reiff followed in the footsteps of Bryan Bulaga.
- Ryan Van Bergen has been told he'll go in the sixth round.
- Michigan State fans will get a long look at Connor Cook in the spring game, because there's no other quarterback to look at.
- Lavonte David will have to wait another day to be drafted.
- For just the fifth time in 14 years, Ohio State didn't have a first-round pick.
- Is Paul Jones getting too much hype at Penn State? Fourth-string, senior quarterback Shane McGregor still has hope of making an impact.
- Tom Dienhart has a Q&A with Indiana coach Kevin Wilson.
- Lloyd Carr as Wisconsin coach? It might have happened, had Barry Alvarez turned down the Badgers. Wisconsin defensive tackle Jordan Kohout shares his Muslim views on Twitter.
- A high school kicker accepted a preferred walk-on position at Northwestern.
- Scroll down this Sid Hartman column to find an item about high season-ticket renewals at Minnesota.
- Purdue's Ricardo Allen challenged his Twitter followers to play him on NCAA Football 2012, and so far he's beat them all.
Illinois leads late arriving B1G first round
April, 27, 2012
Apr 27
9:45
AM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
On the first day of the NFL draft, the Big Ten was like one of those players sitting in the green room waiting and waiting for his name to get called as everyone starts to feel really uncomfortable.
The first Big Ten player to go off the board was Iowa's Riley Reiff, who had been projected as high as the Top 10 or 15 in mock drafts just a few weeks ago. He went 23rd. According to ESPN Stats & Info, it matches the lowest-ever top pick from the league; Minnesota offensive lineman John Williams went No. 23 in 1968.
But after the long wait, the Big Ten had four of the final 10 picks of the first round, including a surprise second selection for Illinois. Let's review:
No. 23: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa to Detroit Lions
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: “"Words can't describe how happy I am right now," Reiff said. "I'm super excited to be a Lion. I really can't put into words what I'm actually feeling, but I'm excited. The Lion are a great team, and there will be great seasons ahead."
My take: Reiff slipped pretty far from his original projection, but he was still the second offensive lineman drafted, as expected. And he ended up in a good situation, with a young team that appears to be on the rise. Detroit has five starters on the line, so he can learn for a year before potentially taking over for Jeff Backus.
No. 26: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois to Houston
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: “When my name was called my emotions just flooded,” Mercilus said. “I was getting a little nervous, because I thought I might go a little higher, so I was really happy when I got the call. I can’t wait to go to work with the Houston Texans. From day one I want to go prove to them that they spent their money well on me.”
My take: Mercilus is another guy who could have gone higher, but ends up on a potential playoff team. With Mario Williams gone, he has a chance to step in right away and start at defensive end. If he plays with the same high motor and intensity he did last season with the Illini, he should be an effective pass-rusher, though he'll need to bulk up a little.
No. 27: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin to Cincinnati
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: "I had a good senior year," Zeitler said. "I tried to put everything I had on the field. Once the draft process started, I just tried to prove to coaches, off the field I take it just as seriously as on the field. I try to improve every day, any way I can. I guess it stuck."
My take: The first-round selection capped a meteoric rise for Zeitler, who was an honorable mention Big Ten performer as a junior. He blossomed into an All-American as a senior, and he rocketed up draft boards late in the process. He might not excite Bengals fans, but he's one of the safest picks of the first round, and has a clear path to starting as a rookie.
No. 30: A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois, to San Francisco
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: "I was kind of caught off guard,” Jenkins said. “It’s just a blessing that I was taken in the first round by a great organization. I think it’s a perfect match. I can’t wait to go out to San Francisco, work with a great coach in Coach Harbaugh, and go to work with some talented players. It’s a great position to be in, and a great organization.
My take: This was the stunner of the first round, from a Big Ten perspective. Jenkins wasn't being projected as a first-rounder by anybody that I saw. But we witnessed Jenkins' explosive ability during the first half of last season, when he was one of the most productive receivers in the nation before Illinois' offense dropped off a cliff. As we saw in last year's playoffs, the 49ers desperately need help at receiver, so the pick makes sense. What doesn't make much sense: the Illini had two first-round picks (at least) on their roster last season, and lost their final six regular-season games.
So that was that for the first round and the Big Ten. Some very good players from the league are left on the board, including Michigan State's Jerel Worthy, Wisconsin's Peter Konz, Penn State's Devon Still, Nebraska's Lavonte David, and on and on and on.
The first Big Ten player to go off the board was Iowa's Riley Reiff, who had been projected as high as the Top 10 or 15 in mock drafts just a few weeks ago. He went 23rd. According to ESPN Stats & Info, it matches the lowest-ever top pick from the league; Minnesota offensive lineman John Williams went No. 23 in 1968.
But after the long wait, the Big Ten had four of the final 10 picks of the first round, including a surprise second selection for Illinois. Let's review:
No. 23: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa to Detroit Lions
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: “"Words can't describe how happy I am right now," Reiff said. "I'm super excited to be a Lion. I really can't put into words what I'm actually feeling, but I'm excited. The Lion are a great team, and there will be great seasons ahead."
My take: Reiff slipped pretty far from his original projection, but he was still the second offensive lineman drafted, as expected. And he ended up in a good situation, with a young team that appears to be on the rise. Detroit has five starters on the line, so he can learn for a year before potentially taking over for Jeff Backus.
No. 26: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois to Houston
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: “When my name was called my emotions just flooded,” Mercilus said. “I was getting a little nervous, because I thought I might go a little higher, so I was really happy when I got the call. I can’t wait to go to work with the Houston Texans. From day one I want to go prove to them that they spent their money well on me.”
My take: Mercilus is another guy who could have gone higher, but ends up on a potential playoff team. With Mario Williams gone, he has a chance to step in right away and start at defensive end. If he plays with the same high motor and intensity he did last season with the Illini, he should be an effective pass-rusher, though he'll need to bulk up a little.
No. 27: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin to Cincinnati
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: "I had a good senior year," Zeitler said. "I tried to put everything I had on the field. Once the draft process started, I just tried to prove to coaches, off the field I take it just as seriously as on the field. I try to improve every day, any way I can. I guess it stuck."
My take: The first-round selection capped a meteoric rise for Zeitler, who was an honorable mention Big Ten performer as a junior. He blossomed into an All-American as a senior, and he rocketed up draft boards late in the process. He might not excite Bengals fans, but he's one of the safest picks of the first round, and has a clear path to starting as a rookie.
No. 30: A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois, to San Francisco
Todd McShay video analysis here.
Quotable: "I was kind of caught off guard,” Jenkins said. “It’s just a blessing that I was taken in the first round by a great organization. I think it’s a perfect match. I can’t wait to go out to San Francisco, work with a great coach in Coach Harbaugh, and go to work with some talented players. It’s a great position to be in, and a great organization.
My take: This was the stunner of the first round, from a Big Ten perspective. Jenkins wasn't being projected as a first-rounder by anybody that I saw. But we witnessed Jenkins' explosive ability during the first half of last season, when he was one of the most productive receivers in the nation before Illinois' offense dropped off a cliff. As we saw in last year's playoffs, the 49ers desperately need help at receiver, so the pick makes sense. What doesn't make much sense: the Illini had two first-round picks (at least) on their roster last season, and lost their final six regular-season games.
So that was that for the first round and the Big Ten. Some very good players from the league are left on the board, including Michigan State's Jerel Worthy, Wisconsin's Peter Konz, Penn State's Devon Still, Nebraska's Lavonte David, and on and on and on.
Many Bothans died bringing us this information.
- Jim Delany will seek some input from players for their perspective on the Rose Bowl. More coverage of the BCS meetings here and here.
- Authorities say former Minnesota linebacker Gary Tinsely died of an enlarged heart.
- Iowa got a commitment from an Ohio defensive tackle, its third D-line recruit in the '13 class so far. Marvin McNutt may have to wait a while to hear his name called.
- Nebraska's Lavonte David may be undersized, but his production is awfully large. Sam McKewon recaps the Huskers' spring.
- Kyle Meinke breaks down all of Michigan's draft hopefuls. Junior Hemingway's draft stock is on the rise.
- Whether Bill O'Brien wants to win now or win later may help him decide who his starting quarterback will be. Matt McGloin may still be the last man standing.
- Ricky Wagner wants to follow in the line of greatness at left tackle for Wisconsin.
- Whitney Mercilus talks about his draft season.
- Ohio State's Mike Adams could be a "boom or bust" prospect.
- Jerel Worthy could break Michigan State's first-round drought. The Spartans' spring game draft said a lot about how some players are viewed.
- Damarlo Belcher is Indiana's best hope for a draftee.
- Purdue kicker Carson Wiggs wants to be Mr. Irrelevant.
The Big Ten has released its complete prime-time schedule for the 2012 season, with 14 total games under the lights this fall. That includes six games on the ABC/ESPN family of networks and eight on the Big Ten Network.
Here you go, night owls (all kickoffs listed in ET):
Aug. 31
Boise State at Michigan State, 8 p.m., ESPN
Sept. 1
Indiana State at Indiana, 8 p.m., Big Ten Network
Sept. 8
Vanderbilt at Northwestern, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 15
Notre Dame at Michigan State, 8 p.m., ABC
Utah State at Wisconsin, 8 p.m., BTN
Ball State at Indiana, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 22
Syracuse at Minnesota, 8 p.m., BTN
Louisiana Tech at Illinois, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 29
Wisconsin at Nebraska, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Oct. 6
Nebraska at Ohio State, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Oct. 13
Ohio State at Indiana, 8 p.m., BTN
Oct. 20
Penn State at Iowa, 8 p.m., BTN
Oct. 27
Ohio State at Penn State, 6 p.m., ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Nebraska, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Thoughts:
What are your thoughts on the prime-time schedule?
Here you go, night owls (all kickoffs listed in ET):
Aug. 31
Boise State at Michigan State, 8 p.m., ESPN
Sept. 1
Indiana State at Indiana, 8 p.m., Big Ten Network
Sept. 8
Vanderbilt at Northwestern, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 15
Notre Dame at Michigan State, 8 p.m., ABC
Utah State at Wisconsin, 8 p.m., BTN
Ball State at Indiana, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 22
Syracuse at Minnesota, 8 p.m., BTN
Louisiana Tech at Illinois, 8 p.m., BTN
Sept. 29
Wisconsin at Nebraska, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Oct. 6
Nebraska at Ohio State, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Oct. 13
Ohio State at Indiana, 8 p.m., BTN
Oct. 20
Penn State at Iowa, 8 p.m., BTN
Oct. 27
Ohio State at Penn State, 6 p.m., ESPN or ESPN2
Michigan at Nebraska, 8 p.m., ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2
Thoughts:
- Every Big Ten team except Purdue will have at least one night game this season. The Boilermakers have to be a little disappointed after getting to a bowl game last year and bringing back a talented roster. Nebraska and Ohio State will each play three league games under the lights.
- If you were planning on going to a Halloween party on Oct. 27, better make sure you have access to a TV -- or TVs. Not only will the Ohio State-Penn State and Michigan-Nebraska games be on in prime time, that's also the same day Wisconsin and Michigan State meet up at Camp Randall Stadium. It's a little hard to believe that game, which is a rematch of two epic duels from last season, won't be in prime time. But the two chosen for night slots are also big and feature four enormous fan bases. Wisconsin-Michigan State likely will get the 3:30 p.m. ET time slot in what is shaping up to be the biggest day of the season in the Big Ten.
- Ohio State will play three of its four October games at night, including Nebraska's visit to the Horseshoe. It's no surprise, given the Buckeyes' following and the presence of Urban Meyer. Even without the ability to play in the postseason, the Buckeyes figure to be an attractive team for TV ratings purposes this year. The atmosphere in Columbus when Big Red comes to town should be absolutely electric.
- Speaking of Nebraska, three of the Huskers' biggest games of the season will all be in prime time. Bo Pelini's team will get a chance to atone for blowout losses to Wisconsin and Michigan under the lights at Memorial Stadium. That place got crazy for last year's huge comeback win against Ohio State at night and should be similarly fired up for the Badgers and Wolverines.
- Penn State will have back-to-back prime-time games, and neither will be easy. The Nittany Lions must travel to Kinnick Stadium, which is usually a great atmosphere at night. It's the third time in four years those two teams have played at night. Penn State will also play the following week after dark versus Ohio State, which should provide an advantage for the Nittany Lions. There was no night game at Beaver Stadium last year, which didn't sit too well with the Penn State faithful. They've got a perfect white-out opportunity with Meyer and the Buckeyes coming to State College.
- Adam and I had Michigan State No. 1 in our pre-spring power rankings and may very well keep the Spartans there through the summer. But Michigan State will not get any prime-time exposure during conference season. The night games against Boise State (on a Friday) and Notre Dame were no-brainers, and with both at home the Spartans will need good showings to impress the rest of the country.
- Northwestern had three straight night games last season but gets only one all season this year, in the academic bowl against Vanderbilt. Assuming both student bodies aren't studying, that could be a fun game.
- Wisconsin won't get the benefit of playing at Camp Randall at night this year, except against Utah State. And the Badgers didn't figure to need much help in that game.
- The night kickoff could also help Minnesota in an interesting nonconference game against Syracuse. The Gophers had only one night game a year ago and lost in embarrassing fashion to North Dakota State.
- Indiana gets three prime-time exposure opportunities, all of them at home. Perhaps that can improve the game-day environment in Bloomington, though Ohio State often has almost as many fans as the Hoosiers when it comes to Memorial Stadium.
- Michigan's first-ever night game last season against Notre Dame was a smashing success, but the Wolverines will not go under the lights again this year in the Big House, as had been reported. But they will get their share of high-profile prime-time matchups, having to play Notre Dame and Nebraska on the road at night. The opener against Alabama in Arlington, Texas, is also expected to be a night kickoff. The schedule offers few breaks for Brady Hoke's team in 2012.
- Overall, I think it's a very strong prime-time schedule. I count five weeks with at least one really appetizing matchup, with the potential for much more. I'm already planning on not sleeping the night of Oct. 27.
What are your thoughts on the prime-time schedule?
I'm just beginning my Wisconsin weekend adventure. But in between bites of cheese curds, I've found some time to answer your emails. So let's see what's on your mind.
Dan from Monroe, Mich., writes: What was your question to Mark Dantonio when he gave this answer: "We're laying in the weeds," Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio says with a half smile. "We've beat Michigan the last four years. So where's the threat?" That quote has blown up and its all over the internet and Dantonio rarely mentions U of M unless he is asked about them specifically. Seems like U of M fans are looking to hate Dantonio even more even after the 4 straight L's they have taken from MSU.
Brian Bennett: The questions was very similar to the lead-in to the quote that you read in the story. I asked Dantonio about all the hype Michigan was getting and the Wolverines' recruiting success and if that worried him. He didn't need a lot of prompting. Some people took that quote as arrogance, but that's not how it came across to me. They call rivalries bragging rights games for a reason, and Michigan State has the right to brag a little when it comes to Michigan right now. It's clear the Spartans are comfortable with the state of their own program right now, and they should be.
Scott from Yakima, Wash., writes: Brian, nice to see the MSU on ESPN FB frontpage. And then I see you lead off the article with reference to those rodents from AA. Now, I know you are trying to do your best and you always probably have someone chipping at you for this or that. Just would have been nice to see an article (especially one so prominently displayed) without reference to that infestation in AA. After all, I'm not even sure it is much of a rivalry now. We (MSU) have had our way with them so routinely as of late, maybe Wisconsin is a more worthy rivalry? Hmmm. Don't know. What you think?
Brian Bennett: Scott, 90 percent of the article was about Michigan State and only a little bit concerned Michigan. But let's be honest. The Spartans are always going to measure themselves at least in part on what's happening in Ann Arbor. It's the same way with Auburn and Alabama, Clemson and South Carolina, UCLA and USC, etc. When you have a major instate rival that's so close, especially one that's been so historically successful and one that's now in your same division, that's always going to be part of the context.
Max from Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., writes: Great article about the depth that the Spartans have built under Dantonio. I always get a kick listening to our wolverine brethren talk about the great season in store after only one good recruiting class. They seem to think that true freshman will be able to compete with redshirt sophomores and juniors. Laughable isn't it? It reminds me of all those September Heisman's they have won recently. What is your take on this? I think it will take at least two more years before um can actually compete with MSU.
Brian Bennett: Believe me, Brady Hoke and his staff know that they have work to do to build up their depth, especially on the lines. That's why you've seen so many linemen in their recruiting class. I think Michigan's frontline players are good enough for the Wolverines to win the Big Ten. But if they don't get the same fortune with injuries they had last year, their lack of depth could become a real problem. Michigan's roster and body types will look a lot different in a couple of years.
Adam from Baltimore, Md., writes: Quick Question. Was William Gholston sitting on the floor when you were interviewing him or are you secretly 7 feet tall and none of us knew it? I guess the other more serious question is, even as congenial and well-spoken as Gholston was in the interview (he seems charismatic when he pops that smile) he just seems so physically imposing and intimidating, even sitting down. Would that be a fair assessment for those of us who never get to talk to these guys?
Brian Bennett: I've been taking nonstop doses of human growth hormone this spring. No, Gholston offered to sit on a desk, which I much appreciated. I interviewed him on camera last year with both of us standing up, and it was quite a challenge to fit both of us in the same frame. Gholston is a large human being at 6-foot-7, 280 pounds, but he doesn't come across as intimidating in person. He's a real mild-mannered and polite kid who's fun to be around. That's why the people who know him best at Michigan State kept insisting his actions in last year's Michigan game were completely out of character.
Matt from Livonia, Mich., writes: I remember hearing that the hesitation for a playoff system is potentially devaluing the regular season. However, in 2011, we had multiple teams compete in BCS bowls that didn't win their conference or division. Will a playoff help to eliminate the human element (voting) that (in my opinion) harms college football today? For example, it was fairly obvious that B1G coaches voted Michigan higher than MSU in order to get a second B1G team in a BCS bowl and increase conference revenue. Will we ever see a football selection committee similar to basketball?
Brian Bennett: Matt, I've written several times that I'm wildly in favor of a selection committee. I don't mind using computers as a guide in the selection process, a la the RPI in basketball, but inescapably biased voters in polls should not have any impact on the process. The BCS commissioners are meeting again next week and say they won't decide anything, so who knows how this will turn out? As for your other point, I strongly disagree that coaches voted Michigan higher to prove some sort of point. We've seen it happen time and again that the team that loses in its championship game often misses on the BCS while a division also-ran goes instead. Losing late always hurts in the polls.
Andy from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Brian, I think it was you that has been outspoken against a conference champions requirement for a 4-team playoff (sorry if I'm mistaken!), and I tend to disagree. But doesn't it ultimately come down to what the goal of your postseason is? The professional leagues all define their champion as the team playing best at the end of the season, which is fine. But the NCAA has always said that every game counts, which would suggest that the champion should be the team with the overall best season, not the one who gets hot at the end. And although the BCS has shifted the mentality more towards the professional thinking in recent years, if the NCAA truly wants every game to count, the postseason's purpose needs to be to determine which team has the best overall season, and there's no better way to weed out contenders than making a conference championship a requirement. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: I see what you're saying in theory, Andy, and I agree the full season should count. But it doesn't always work out that cleanly. Look no farther than last year. Yes, Alabama didn't win its conference championship, but the Tide in my opinion had a better regular season than Oklahoma State (which lost to unranked Iowa State) and Stanford (which also didn't win its conference), both of whom ended up in BCS games. So should we have shut out Alabama just because it happened to play in the same division as LSU? Should we have included a two-loss Oregon or two-loss Wisconsin instead? My belief is we should pick the four best teams, period, based on their overall body of work.
Steven from Madtown writes: You and Adam have mentioned a bunch of times how Nebraska players are talking about the national championship. Does the lack of this sort of talk from other teams mean they aren't aspiring to the championship, or are they just trying not to jinx it? To paraphrase Don Draper about the Midwest: "Where I come from it's not polite to talk about yourself."
Brian Bennett: Love the "Mad Men" reference, Steven. I think it's mostly a matter of expectations. At Nebraska, fans and alumni still expect national titles, even if it's been a while since Big Red won a conference championship. Other teams obviously aspire to that, but a team like Ohio State knows it's not feasible this year because of probation, while others like Michigan State and Wisconsin are looking to get over a hump (for the Spartans, making a Rose Bowl; for the Badgers, winning one). I would expect Michigan to talk like that at some point in the future, though Brady Hoke is such a traditionalist that the Big Ten title means everything to him, as I wrote earlier today.
Dano from Columbus, Neb., writes: What impact do you thing cancelling the spring game had on the recruits that were visiting that weekend in Lincoln?
Brian Bennett: It's always difficult -- and scary -- to try and read the minds of teenagers. But I'd say it probably had a marginal impact. Sure, it would have been great for those recruits to see the Sea of Red fill Memorial Stadium for their beloved Cornhuskers. But I'm betting most of those kids have either been to a Nebraska game before or have an idea of what great fan support the team has. They still got to meet the coaches and see Nebraska's impressive facilities. I doubt many spring games have sealed the deal in recruiting.
Phil H. from Vancouver, Wash., writes: The ESPN 150 is out. Am I missing something or once again does Wisconsin not have any commitments? How long can this go on if they want to be a top school?
Brian Bennett: The Badgers have three commitments for the 2013 class, but none so far in the ESPN 150. Remember that Wisconsin is going to sign another very small class next year. I wouldn't worry too much about rankings. This program has shown it can locate and develop players. Montee Ball wasn't an ESPN 150 type guy. He turned out OK.
Megan from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, writes: Hey, Bennett, what do you think about the decision to bring the design for the new Cy-Hawk trophy to a vote in this poll after last year's disgrace of a trophy? Which will you be choosing?
Brian Bennett: Since the original designers had such little feel for what a football trophy should look like, I'm all for putting it in the hands of the people. Glad to see there are no kneeling farmers in the options. Of the three choices, I like the one with the football coming out of the corn stalk. Simple, and says it all. But all three are perfectly acceptable and light years ahead of this limp attempt.
Darren from Minneapolis writes: I know, because of recent performance, the Gophers are the neglected stepchild of the BIG and do not get the attention that the other programs do. There is, however, reason to be optimistic of the upcoming season. Offensively, the Gophers return MarQueis Gray at QB and he is an exciting player. James Gillum should bring a significant boost to the running game. I believe the receiving corps. will be much improved with DCT as the home run threat. ... Defensively, there remain questions, but the starting group could look very different than it did last year, which brings some hope for success. The defensive line is a big question mark, but Hageman, by all accounts, is poised for a break-out season. ... The LB corps. is strong and has some decent depth to it. The defensive backfield is very exciting this year. ... I look at this as a team that very likely will win 7 games with a chance at an upset or two for an 8 win or even 9 win season. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Darren, I admire your optimism. I do expect Minnesota to be much improved, partly just from the natural effect of having a second year in the system under Jerry Kill and his staff, who are very good coaches. And I think the nonconference schedule sets up well and could result in four wins for the Gophers. But that still means Minnesota would have to exceed last year's two conference victories to get to seven wins. I'm not sure where those are going to come from. Northwestern and Purdue come to TCF Bank Stadium, and those could be winnable games. The Gophers go on the road to Iowa and Illinois, two teams they beat last year who will be looking for revenge. I'm cautiously optimistic for five wins and think getting to 6-6 and a bowl should be the goal this year.
Dan from Monroe, Mich., writes: What was your question to Mark Dantonio when he gave this answer: "We're laying in the weeds," Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio says with a half smile. "We've beat Michigan the last four years. So where's the threat?" That quote has blown up and its all over the internet and Dantonio rarely mentions U of M unless he is asked about them specifically. Seems like U of M fans are looking to hate Dantonio even more even after the 4 straight L's they have taken from MSU.
Brian Bennett: The questions was very similar to the lead-in to the quote that you read in the story. I asked Dantonio about all the hype Michigan was getting and the Wolverines' recruiting success and if that worried him. He didn't need a lot of prompting. Some people took that quote as arrogance, but that's not how it came across to me. They call rivalries bragging rights games for a reason, and Michigan State has the right to brag a little when it comes to Michigan right now. It's clear the Spartans are comfortable with the state of their own program right now, and they should be.
Scott from Yakima, Wash., writes: Brian, nice to see the MSU on ESPN FB frontpage. And then I see you lead off the article with reference to those rodents from AA. Now, I know you are trying to do your best and you always probably have someone chipping at you for this or that. Just would have been nice to see an article (especially one so prominently displayed) without reference to that infestation in AA. After all, I'm not even sure it is much of a rivalry now. We (MSU) have had our way with them so routinely as of late, maybe Wisconsin is a more worthy rivalry? Hmmm. Don't know. What you think?
Brian Bennett: Scott, 90 percent of the article was about Michigan State and only a little bit concerned Michigan. But let's be honest. The Spartans are always going to measure themselves at least in part on what's happening in Ann Arbor. It's the same way with Auburn and Alabama, Clemson and South Carolina, UCLA and USC, etc. When you have a major instate rival that's so close, especially one that's been so historically successful and one that's now in your same division, that's always going to be part of the context.
Max from Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., writes: Great article about the depth that the Spartans have built under Dantonio. I always get a kick listening to our wolverine brethren talk about the great season in store after only one good recruiting class. They seem to think that true freshman will be able to compete with redshirt sophomores and juniors. Laughable isn't it? It reminds me of all those September Heisman's they have won recently. What is your take on this? I think it will take at least two more years before um can actually compete with MSU.
Brian Bennett: Believe me, Brady Hoke and his staff know that they have work to do to build up their depth, especially on the lines. That's why you've seen so many linemen in their recruiting class. I think Michigan's frontline players are good enough for the Wolverines to win the Big Ten. But if they don't get the same fortune with injuries they had last year, their lack of depth could become a real problem. Michigan's roster and body types will look a lot different in a couple of years.
Adam from Baltimore, Md., writes: Quick Question. Was William Gholston sitting on the floor when you were interviewing him or are you secretly 7 feet tall and none of us knew it? I guess the other more serious question is, even as congenial and well-spoken as Gholston was in the interview (he seems charismatic when he pops that smile) he just seems so physically imposing and intimidating, even sitting down. Would that be a fair assessment for those of us who never get to talk to these guys?
Brian Bennett: I've been taking nonstop doses of human growth hormone this spring. No, Gholston offered to sit on a desk, which I much appreciated. I interviewed him on camera last year with both of us standing up, and it was quite a challenge to fit both of us in the same frame. Gholston is a large human being at 6-foot-7, 280 pounds, but he doesn't come across as intimidating in person. He's a real mild-mannered and polite kid who's fun to be around. That's why the people who know him best at Michigan State kept insisting his actions in last year's Michigan game were completely out of character.
Matt from Livonia, Mich., writes: I remember hearing that the hesitation for a playoff system is potentially devaluing the regular season. However, in 2011, we had multiple teams compete in BCS bowls that didn't win their conference or division. Will a playoff help to eliminate the human element (voting) that (in my opinion) harms college football today? For example, it was fairly obvious that B1G coaches voted Michigan higher than MSU in order to get a second B1G team in a BCS bowl and increase conference revenue. Will we ever see a football selection committee similar to basketball?
Brian Bennett: Matt, I've written several times that I'm wildly in favor of a selection committee. I don't mind using computers as a guide in the selection process, a la the RPI in basketball, but inescapably biased voters in polls should not have any impact on the process. The BCS commissioners are meeting again next week and say they won't decide anything, so who knows how this will turn out? As for your other point, I strongly disagree that coaches voted Michigan higher to prove some sort of point. We've seen it happen time and again that the team that loses in its championship game often misses on the BCS while a division also-ran goes instead. Losing late always hurts in the polls.
Andy from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Brian, I think it was you that has been outspoken against a conference champions requirement for a 4-team playoff (sorry if I'm mistaken!), and I tend to disagree. But doesn't it ultimately come down to what the goal of your postseason is? The professional leagues all define their champion as the team playing best at the end of the season, which is fine. But the NCAA has always said that every game counts, which would suggest that the champion should be the team with the overall best season, not the one who gets hot at the end. And although the BCS has shifted the mentality more towards the professional thinking in recent years, if the NCAA truly wants every game to count, the postseason's purpose needs to be to determine which team has the best overall season, and there's no better way to weed out contenders than making a conference championship a requirement. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: I see what you're saying in theory, Andy, and I agree the full season should count. But it doesn't always work out that cleanly. Look no farther than last year. Yes, Alabama didn't win its conference championship, but the Tide in my opinion had a better regular season than Oklahoma State (which lost to unranked Iowa State) and Stanford (which also didn't win its conference), both of whom ended up in BCS games. So should we have shut out Alabama just because it happened to play in the same division as LSU? Should we have included a two-loss Oregon or two-loss Wisconsin instead? My belief is we should pick the four best teams, period, based on their overall body of work.
Steven from Madtown writes: You and Adam have mentioned a bunch of times how Nebraska players are talking about the national championship. Does the lack of this sort of talk from other teams mean they aren't aspiring to the championship, or are they just trying not to jinx it? To paraphrase Don Draper about the Midwest: "Where I come from it's not polite to talk about yourself."
Brian Bennett: Love the "Mad Men" reference, Steven. I think it's mostly a matter of expectations. At Nebraska, fans and alumni still expect national titles, even if it's been a while since Big Red won a conference championship. Other teams obviously aspire to that, but a team like Ohio State knows it's not feasible this year because of probation, while others like Michigan State and Wisconsin are looking to get over a hump (for the Spartans, making a Rose Bowl; for the Badgers, winning one). I would expect Michigan to talk like that at some point in the future, though Brady Hoke is such a traditionalist that the Big Ten title means everything to him, as I wrote earlier today.
Dano from Columbus, Neb., writes: What impact do you thing cancelling the spring game had on the recruits that were visiting that weekend in Lincoln?
Brian Bennett: It's always difficult -- and scary -- to try and read the minds of teenagers. But I'd say it probably had a marginal impact. Sure, it would have been great for those recruits to see the Sea of Red fill Memorial Stadium for their beloved Cornhuskers. But I'm betting most of those kids have either been to a Nebraska game before or have an idea of what great fan support the team has. They still got to meet the coaches and see Nebraska's impressive facilities. I doubt many spring games have sealed the deal in recruiting.
Phil H. from Vancouver, Wash., writes: The ESPN 150 is out. Am I missing something or once again does Wisconsin not have any commitments? How long can this go on if they want to be a top school?
Brian Bennett: The Badgers have three commitments for the 2013 class, but none so far in the ESPN 150. Remember that Wisconsin is going to sign another very small class next year. I wouldn't worry too much about rankings. This program has shown it can locate and develop players. Montee Ball wasn't an ESPN 150 type guy. He turned out OK.
Megan from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, writes: Hey, Bennett, what do you think about the decision to bring the design for the new Cy-Hawk trophy to a vote in this poll after last year's disgrace of a trophy? Which will you be choosing?
Brian Bennett: Since the original designers had such little feel for what a football trophy should look like, I'm all for putting it in the hands of the people. Glad to see there are no kneeling farmers in the options. Of the three choices, I like the one with the football coming out of the corn stalk. Simple, and says it all. But all three are perfectly acceptable and light years ahead of this limp attempt.
Darren from Minneapolis writes: I know, because of recent performance, the Gophers are the neglected stepchild of the BIG and do not get the attention that the other programs do. There is, however, reason to be optimistic of the upcoming season. Offensively, the Gophers return MarQueis Gray at QB and he is an exciting player. James Gillum should bring a significant boost to the running game. I believe the receiving corps. will be much improved with DCT as the home run threat. ... Defensively, there remain questions, but the starting group could look very different than it did last year, which brings some hope for success. The defensive line is a big question mark, but Hageman, by all accounts, is poised for a break-out season. ... The LB corps. is strong and has some decent depth to it. The defensive backfield is very exciting this year. ... I look at this as a team that very likely will win 7 games with a chance at an upset or two for an 8 win or even 9 win season. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Darren, I admire your optimism. I do expect Minnesota to be much improved, partly just from the natural effect of having a second year in the system under Jerry Kill and his staff, who are very good coaches. And I think the nonconference schedule sets up well and could result in four wins for the Gophers. But that still means Minnesota would have to exceed last year's two conference victories to get to seven wins. I'm not sure where those are going to come from. Northwestern and Purdue come to TCF Bank Stadium, and those could be winnable games. The Gophers go on the road to Iowa and Illinois, two teams they beat last year who will be looking for revenge. I'm cautiously optimistic for five wins and think getting to 6-6 and a bowl should be the goal this year.
Hello, Wisconsin!
- Injuries are starting to pile up for Ohio State this spring. The Buckeyes may have found their quarterback of the future. Running back is making a debut of sorts in the Horseshoe this weekend.
- Penn State is learning how to play fast under Bill O'Brien. The Paterno family doesn't like a new book on the Sandusky scandal.
- Wisconsin's James White is receptive to playing some wide receiver, though he says he's still a running back first.
- Kirk Ferentz loves watching the NFL draft, but Reilly Reiff won't be at the draft in person.
- Rich Rodriguez had a hard time watching Michigan last year. Denard Robinson made strides in cutting down his turnovers this spring.
- Michigan State has depth and stiff competition at linebacker. Larry Caper wants to seize his last opportunity as a Spartan.
- Reviewing the Nebraska defense's spring performance. Lyell Bremser, the late voice of the Huskers, will be inducted into the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame.
- Len Dawson's decision to go to Purdue is still paying dividends.
- Redshirt freshman Deonte Gibson made an impression at defensive end this spring at Northwestern.
- Minnesota linebacker Ryan Grant's family tree is deeply rooted in football.
- Off Tackle Empire breaks down Illinois.
Hope you're having a better week than Bobby Petrino:
- The rich get richer: Ohio State got a commitment from one of the nation's top tight ends. Not to be outdone, Michigan received a verbal pledge from a blue-chip linebacker.
- The Wolverines are already thinking about Alabama and Ohio State.
- Wisconsin lined up in practice with tailbacks Montee Ball and James White on the field at the same time and could employ that look this season. Jon Budmayr remains upbeat about returning despite a long road ahead.
- Illinois assistant Billy Gonzales refuted a report that he was attacked by Percy Harvin while he was a coach at Florida.
- The role of the tight end could be making a comeback in the Iowa offense. Reese Morgan has a mighty challenge on his hands as he moves over to coach the defensive line.
- Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio says Le'Veon Bell is his lead tailback -- for now. Receiver Keith Mumphery is drawing some high marks in practice.
- Tre Roberson still needs to get better to hold onto the Indiana quarterback job.
- Bill O'Brien has made himself at home at Penn State.
- Minnesota reached a new stage of mourning by returning to practice, including Gary Tinsley's roommate, Keanon Cooper.
- The idea of a spring scrimmage against another team intrigues some Big Ten coaches, though Bo Pelini is an opponent.
- Tim Tibesar has brought some new defensive drills to Purdue.
- Traditional power backs could be going the way of the dodo, Rob Oller writes.
- Nick VanHoose nearly went to Indiana, and now he has a chance to start at cornerback for Northwestern.
The work is 10 dollars. The lie is extra.
- Fullback/tight end Zach Becker soldiers on for Illinois despite countless issues with his feet.
- Indiana's defense is trying to get back into attack mode (subscription required).
- Running back Damon Bullock will be under the spotlight at Iowa practice after Jordan Canzeri's injury.
- Michigan's Blake Countess is being held to a high standard as a sophomore. Al Borges talks about his philosophy of player development.
- Walk-on John Jakubik is making an impact at receiver this spring at Michigan State.
- Minnesota set aside its weekend practice as it mourned the loss of Gary Tinsley.
- Bo Pelini praised Taylor Martinez after Nebraska's Saturday scrimmage. A new look for the Huskers could restore the program's long reach. Sean Fisher is looking to make an impact at linebacker.
- Tony Jones says he's the fastest guy on Northwestern's team, and now he's looking to make up for a lost season.
- Excitement is building at Ohio State as players start to learn the spread offense.
- Penn State center Matt Stankiewich says the Nittany Lions are full of enthusiasm and energy this spring. The Penn State playbook is no longer simple.
- Purdue quarterbacks are trying out wearing gloves this spring, while a couple of cornerbacks are thinking pink.
- Georgia's president says the Big Ten and Pac-12 shouldn't get special treatment for the Rose Bowl in any playoff plan.
Ultimate Big Ten 2012 road trip: Week 11
April, 4, 2012
Apr 4
11:00
AM ET
By
Brian Bennett and
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
Our ultimate Big Ten 2012 road trip is nearing its end, but we're into November and some potentially huge conference games that will determine who goes to Indianapolis. Once again, these are the games, we'd choose to go to each week if we had unlimited travel budgets and full say in the matter (neither of which is true, because we need better agents).
Let's check out our options for Week 11:
Minnesota at Illinois
Penn State at Nebraska
Indiana at Wisconsin
Northwestern at Michigan
Purdue at Iowa
(Bye: Ohio State, Michigan State)
Brian's pick: Penn State at Nebraska
The choices for me this week are this one and Northwestern-Michigan, especially because the Wildcats are usually good for one out-of-nowhere road upset every year. But I'm going with Penn State-Nebraska and I know one thing: the scene won't be anywhere near as surreal as last year's game, which came just a few days after Joe Paterno was fired and included severely heightened security, a pregame prayer and tense affair.
Those subplots won't be in play in Lincoln, but division titles could be at stake. I have both Nebraska and Penn State as just a notch below the favorites line in each division, but either or both could easily surpass those expectations and certainly both could be in serious contention in mid-November. This game will also showcase what might be the league's most potent offense (Nebraska) against one of its strongest defenses (the Nittany Lions). There are questions about the other side of the ball for each team, but those questions will likely have been answered by this time of the year. While this matchup would have offered a whole lot more fun in 1994, it should still prove quite entertaining in 2012.
Adam's pick: Penn State at Nebraska
I'll be joining you in Lincoln, BB, as the Lions and Huskers renew their series. This is one of those new Big Ten pairings that gets me pumped up, in part because I remember the teams' games in 2002-03. They're the two newest members of the Big Ten, and both programs have so much history. While last year's game was unforgettable because of the circumstances you've outlined, I'm pretty sure we'll see more polished performances from both squads at Memorial Stadium. After spending time with Nebraska this week, I can tell you the Huskers fully expect to be in the mix for the Legends division title. Penn State also has a chance to make some noise, mainly because of its defense and its run game, led by junior Silas Redd.
If you like running backs, this game features two of the best in Redd and Nebraska's Rex Burkhead. Burkhead got the best of the Nittany Lions last year, rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown, while Nebraska held Redd to 53 rush yards on 15 carries. The quarterback matchup also should be intriguing as both teams are looking for improvement there. I have yet to see Penn State on my trip, and the Lions will be a fascinating story under new head coach Bill O'Brien. It'll be interesting to see how they handle a tough road environment. Northwestern-Michigan might be another good option, and the Purdue-Iowa matchup could end up featuring two surprisingly good teams. But Lincoln is my pick. I'll make a reservation at Misty's. You're buying.
Previously on the road trip ...
Week 1: Adam at Boise State-Michigan State, Brian at Michigan-Alabama
Week 2: Brian at Penn State-Virginia, Adam at Nebraska-UCLA
Week 3: Adam at Notre Dame-Michigan State, Brian at Cal-Ohio State
Week 4: Brian at Michigan-Notre Dame, Adam at Michigan-Notre Dame
Week 5: Adam at Wisconsin-Nebraska, Brian at Ohio State-Michigan State
Week 6: Brian at Nebraska-Ohio State, Adam at Nebraska-Ohio State
Week 7: Brian at Iowa-Michigan State, Adam at Wisconsin-Purdue
Week 8: Adam at Michigan State-Michigan, Brian at Michigan State-Michigan
Week 9: Brian at Michigan-Nebraska, Adam at Michigan State-Wisconsin
Week 10: Adam at Illinois-Ohio State, Brian at Penn State-Purdue
Let's check out our options for Week 11:
Minnesota at Illinois
Penn State at Nebraska
Indiana at Wisconsin
Northwestern at Michigan
Purdue at Iowa
(Bye: Ohio State, Michigan State)
Brian's pick: Penn State at Nebraska
The choices for me this week are this one and Northwestern-Michigan, especially because the Wildcats are usually good for one out-of-nowhere road upset every year. But I'm going with Penn State-Nebraska and I know one thing: the scene won't be anywhere near as surreal as last year's game, which came just a few days after Joe Paterno was fired and included severely heightened security, a pregame prayer and tense affair.
Those subplots won't be in play in Lincoln, but division titles could be at stake. I have both Nebraska and Penn State as just a notch below the favorites line in each division, but either or both could easily surpass those expectations and certainly both could be in serious contention in mid-November. This game will also showcase what might be the league's most potent offense (Nebraska) against one of its strongest defenses (the Nittany Lions). There are questions about the other side of the ball for each team, but those questions will likely have been answered by this time of the year. While this matchup would have offered a whole lot more fun in 1994, it should still prove quite entertaining in 2012.
Adam's pick: Penn State at Nebraska
I'll be joining you in Lincoln, BB, as the Lions and Huskers renew their series. This is one of those new Big Ten pairings that gets me pumped up, in part because I remember the teams' games in 2002-03. They're the two newest members of the Big Ten, and both programs have so much history. While last year's game was unforgettable because of the circumstances you've outlined, I'm pretty sure we'll see more polished performances from both squads at Memorial Stadium. After spending time with Nebraska this week, I can tell you the Huskers fully expect to be in the mix for the Legends division title. Penn State also has a chance to make some noise, mainly because of its defense and its run game, led by junior Silas Redd.
If you like running backs, this game features two of the best in Redd and Nebraska's Rex Burkhead. Burkhead got the best of the Nittany Lions last year, rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown, while Nebraska held Redd to 53 rush yards on 15 carries. The quarterback matchup also should be intriguing as both teams are looking for improvement there. I have yet to see Penn State on my trip, and the Lions will be a fascinating story under new head coach Bill O'Brien. It'll be interesting to see how they handle a tough road environment. Northwestern-Michigan might be another good option, and the Purdue-Iowa matchup could end up featuring two surprisingly good teams. But Lincoln is my pick. I'll make a reservation at Misty's. You're buying.
Previously on the road trip ...
Week 1: Adam at Boise State-Michigan State, Brian at Michigan-Alabama
Week 2: Brian at Penn State-Virginia, Adam at Nebraska-UCLA
Week 3: Adam at Notre Dame-Michigan State, Brian at Cal-Ohio State
Week 4: Brian at Michigan-Notre Dame, Adam at Michigan-Notre Dame
Week 5: Adam at Wisconsin-Nebraska, Brian at Ohio State-Michigan State
Week 6: Brian at Nebraska-Ohio State, Adam at Nebraska-Ohio State
Week 7: Brian at Iowa-Michigan State, Adam at Wisconsin-Purdue
Week 8: Adam at Michigan State-Michigan, Brian at Michigan State-Michigan
Week 9: Brian at Michigan-Nebraska, Adam at Michigan State-Wisconsin
Week 10: Adam at Illinois-Ohio State, Brian at Penn State-Purdue
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Adam Rittenberg
Rittenberg joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four years at the Arlington Heights (Ill.) Daily Herald, where he covered sports at Notre Dame, Northwestern, DePaul and several other colleges. He lives in Chicago.
Brian Bennett
Bennett joined ESPN.com in August 2008 after nine years at The Courier-Journal in Louisville, Ky., where he covered college sports and the University of Louisville beat. He lives in Louisville.
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