Big Ten: Pat Angerer
Big shoes to fill in the Big Ten in 2010
February, 8, 2010
Feb 8
10:00
AM ET
It's still early February, but signing day is over and you can officially start looking forward to the 2010 season. But before we look at who's back in the Big Ten, let's look at who will be missed the most when the teams return to the practice field this spring.
Here are five players who leave big shoes to fill around the league:
Penn State QB Daryll Clark: Clark finished his career as one of the best quarterbacks in Penn State history, setting team records for career passing touchdowns, single-season passing touchdowns, single-season passing yards and single-season total offense. He was even more valuable as a leader both on and off the field, and few players invested as much as the two-year starter. His presence certainly will be missed.
Northwestern QB Mike Kafka: Kafka basically became the entire NU offense in 2009 as the run game struggled. He developed into a precision passer and ended up as one of the most valuable players in the Big Ten. The second-team All-Big Ten selection led the league in both passing (3,430) and total offense (3,729). Although backup Dan Persa got some playing time after Kafka was banged up against Penn State, he'll have a tough time replacing the senior.
Michigan DE Brandon Graham: The Wolverines defense struggled mightily with Graham on the field, and it's scary to think where the unit would have been without his nation-leading 26 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. Graham was arguably the most disruptive defensive lineman in the country in 2009, and he leaves a major void on the edge. Michigan will need several players to step up to fill the production void left by Graham's departure.
Iowa CB Amari Spievey: Some will argue with this one, but of all the players Iowa loses from the 2009 team, Spievey could be the most valuable. He took away one side of the field, forcing opposing quarterbacks to look elsewhere and freeing up playmaking opportunities for safety Tyler Sash and others. Iowa has some decent corners coming back, but none with the shutdown capabilities of Spievey, who recorded two interceptions and 10 passes defended.
Penn State DT Jared Odrick: Penn State has little trouble reloading in the defensive front seven, but the Lions will be hard-pressed to find another Odrick in the middle of the defensive line. Odrick consistently commanded double- and triple-teams, opening up lanes for teammates to reach the backfield. Big Ten coaches named him Defensive Player of the Year and Defensive Lineman of the Year, high honors given the league's depth along the D-line. Odrick was the biggest reason why Penn State finished sixth nationally in rushing defense (89.9 ypg).
Five more who will be missed: Purdue QB Joey Elliott, Iowa LB Pat Angerer, Penn State LB Navorro Bowman, Wisconsin DE O'Brien Schofield, Ohio State S Kurt Coleman.
Here are five players who leave big shoes to fill around the league:
Penn State QB Daryll Clark: Clark finished his career as one of the best quarterbacks in Penn State history, setting team records for career passing touchdowns, single-season passing touchdowns, single-season passing yards and single-season total offense. He was even more valuable as a leader both on and off the field, and few players invested as much as the two-year starter. His presence certainly will be missed.
Northwestern QB Mike Kafka: Kafka basically became the entire NU offense in 2009 as the run game struggled. He developed into a precision passer and ended up as one of the most valuable players in the Big Ten. The second-team All-Big Ten selection led the league in both passing (3,430) and total offense (3,729). Although backup Dan Persa got some playing time after Kafka was banged up against Penn State, he'll have a tough time replacing the senior.
Michigan DE Brandon Graham: The Wolverines defense struggled mightily with Graham on the field, and it's scary to think where the unit would have been without his nation-leading 26 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. Graham was arguably the most disruptive defensive lineman in the country in 2009, and he leaves a major void on the edge. Michigan will need several players to step up to fill the production void left by Graham's departure.
Iowa CB Amari Spievey: Some will argue with this one, but of all the players Iowa loses from the 2009 team, Spievey could be the most valuable. He took away one side of the field, forcing opposing quarterbacks to look elsewhere and freeing up playmaking opportunities for safety Tyler Sash and others. Iowa has some decent corners coming back, but none with the shutdown capabilities of Spievey, who recorded two interceptions and 10 passes defended.
Penn State DT Jared Odrick: Penn State has little trouble reloading in the defensive front seven, but the Lions will be hard-pressed to find another Odrick in the middle of the defensive line. Odrick consistently commanded double- and triple-teams, opening up lanes for teammates to reach the backfield. Big Ten coaches named him Defensive Player of the Year and Defensive Lineman of the Year, high honors given the league's depth along the D-line. Odrick was the biggest reason why Penn State finished sixth nationally in rushing defense (89.9 ypg).
Five more who will be missed: Purdue QB Joey Elliott, Iowa LB Pat Angerer, Penn State LB Navorro Bowman, Wisconsin DE O'Brien Schofield, Ohio State S Kurt Coleman.
Iowa Hawkeyes
The class
Recruits: 21 (all high school seniors, two players have enrolled early)
Top prospects: Tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz is an ESPNU 150 selection who should challenge for playing time right away following the departure of Tony Moeaki. Offensive tackle Andrew Donnal certainly fits the mold at Iowa, which always produces great O-linemen. Marcus Coker won't contribute right away at a crowded running back position, but he'll be very good down the line. Athlete A.J. Derby will find a spot on the field early in his career.
Sleepers: Linebacker James Morris could end up being a key contributor for the Hawkeyes defense. Austin Vier is an intriguing prospect who will get a shot at quarterback but likely will move to tight end.
Needs met: Iowa will need to reload along the defensive line beginning in 2011, so five recruits at either end or tackle should help. The same goes at linebacker. The offensive line has a few question marks this year, and while Donnal could step in as a freshman, both he and Brandon Scherff will help in the future. This class addresses the tight end position for years to come.
Analysis: Arguably no staff in the Big Ten gets more out of less than Iowa's coaches, so fans clamoring for five-star recruits should simply consult the history books. Iowa doesn't need immediate help at too many positions, though Fiedorowicz could be a key contributor this season alongside Allen Reisner. There's a lot of versatility in this class, so it will be interesting to see what Kirk Ferentz and his assistants do with players like Derby and Vier.
Scouts Inc. grade: B-minus
What Kirk Ferentz said:
The class
Recruits: 21 (all high school seniors, two players have enrolled early)
Top prospects: Tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz is an ESPNU 150 selection who should challenge for playing time right away following the departure of Tony Moeaki. Offensive tackle Andrew Donnal certainly fits the mold at Iowa, which always produces great O-linemen. Marcus Coker won't contribute right away at a crowded running back position, but he'll be very good down the line. Athlete A.J. Derby will find a spot on the field early in his career.
Sleepers: Linebacker James Morris could end up being a key contributor for the Hawkeyes defense. Austin Vier is an intriguing prospect who will get a shot at quarterback but likely will move to tight end.
Needs met: Iowa will need to reload along the defensive line beginning in 2011, so five recruits at either end or tackle should help. The same goes at linebacker. The offensive line has a few question marks this year, and while Donnal could step in as a freshman, both he and Brandon Scherff will help in the future. This class addresses the tight end position for years to come.
Analysis: Arguably no staff in the Big Ten gets more out of less than Iowa's coaches, so fans clamoring for five-star recruits should simply consult the history books. Iowa doesn't need immediate help at too many positions, though Fiedorowicz could be a key contributor this season alongside Allen Reisner. There's a lot of versatility in this class, so it will be interesting to see what Kirk Ferentz and his assistants do with players like Derby and Vier.
Scouts Inc. grade: B-minus
What Kirk Ferentz said:
- "This year we went a little heavier maybe on defense, certainly with three of our four defensive linemen next year being seniors. The next two guys being juniors. It was real important to us to get some guys in that we felt could be involved right away. And same thing with our linebacker position, we've got a heavy group of seniors next year. We just graduated two outstanding players [Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds]. So those are two positions we felt were really, it was important to fortify."
- (On A.J. Derby) "He's a winner. And on top of that, you know, we think he's got a lot of upside at the quarterback position. If that doesn't work down the road, there's probably a lot of things he could do. ... That's our intent is for him to play quarterback. We're eager to see how he can progress and improve. And if things change in our style a little bit, that's fine."
- "There aren't too many guys we're counting on to save our team next year. But they're really going to be important in our future. And we'll have the discussion down the road possibly about are you going to be a special teams guy, a back-up guy, get your feet wet, and then we're going to have a lot of vacancies a year from now. I know that."
All-Big Ten defense and recruiting rankings
January, 25, 2010
Jan 25
5:00
PM ET
After looking at where this year's All-Big Ten offensive players ranked as recruits, it's time to get defensive. Here's where the league's top defensive players stacked up according to ESPN's Scouts Inc., Rivals.com and Scout.com. I've displayed position rankings, state rankings and national rankings.
A reminder: Scouts Inc. doesn't have rankings for players in the 2005 recruiting class.
These are the media's first-team All-Big Ten selections. I added Penn State defensive tackle Jared Odrick, the league's co-Defensive Player of the Year, to the mix.
Enjoy.
Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 80, No. 9 inside linebacker, No. 2 in Missouri, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars (out of five), No. 8 defensive end, No. 2 player in Missouri, No. 194 nationally
Scout: Four stars (out of five), No. 18 defensive end, unranked nationally (top 100)
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 86, No. 2 inside linebacker, No. 1 in Michigan, No. 31 nationally
Rivals: Five stars, No. 2 inside linebacker, No. 1 in Michigan, No. 15 player nationally
Scout: Five stars, No. 3 inside linebacker, No. 14 player nationally
Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 74, No. 72 defensive end, No. 6 in Indiana, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 46 defensive end, No. 4 in Indiana, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 88 defensive end, unranked nationally
O'Brien Schofield, DE, Wisconsin
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 24 defensive end, No. 24 in Illinois, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 55 linebacker, unranked nationally
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 32 defensive tackle, No. 23 in Pennsylvania, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 3 defensive tackle, No. 1 in Pennsylvania, No. 31 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 8 defensive tackle, No. 55 nationally
Greg Jones, LB, Michigan State
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 71, No. 101 defensive end, No. 57 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 34 outside linebacker, No. 16 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 24 linebacker, unranked nationally
Navorro Bowman, LB, Penn State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 77, No. 22 inside linebacker, No. 11 in Maryland, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 12 inside linebacker, No. 9 in Maryland, No. 212 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 22 linebacker, unranked nationally
Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 26 inside linebacker, No. 5 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 57 linebacker, unranked nationally
Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 80, No. 8 cornerback, No. 8 in California, No. 86 nationally
Rivals: Five stars, No. 3 cornerback, No. 4 in California, No. 25 nationally
Scout: Five stars, No. 4 cornerback, No. 22 nationally
Sherrick McManis, CB, Northwestern
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among cornerbacks, No. 58 in Illinois
Rivals: Two stars, unranked among cornerbacks or state or nationally
Scout: Two stars, unranked among cornerbacks or nationally
Tyler Sash, S, Iowa
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 69, No. 165 running back, No. 7 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 59 athlete, No. 5 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 82 safety, unranked nationally
Kurt Coleman, S, Ohio State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 81, No. 12 cornerback, No. 8 in Ohio, No. 125 nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 13 cornerback, No. 10 in Ohio, No. 183 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 14 cornerback, unranked nationally
Zoltan Mesko, P, Michigan
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 2 kicker, No. 36 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 4 punter, unranked nationally
Another interesting look back at who panned out. There certainly were several steals in this group (McManis, Sash, Jones), while others (Graham, Warren) lived up to the hype.
A reminder: Scouts Inc. doesn't have rankings for players in the 2005 recruiting class.
These are the media's first-team All-Big Ten selections. I added Penn State defensive tackle Jared Odrick, the league's co-Defensive Player of the Year, to the mix.
Enjoy.
Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 80, No. 9 inside linebacker, No. 2 in Missouri, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars (out of five), No. 8 defensive end, No. 2 player in Missouri, No. 194 nationally
Scout: Four stars (out of five), No. 18 defensive end, unranked nationally (top 100)
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 86, No. 2 inside linebacker, No. 1 in Michigan, No. 31 nationally
Rivals: Five stars, No. 2 inside linebacker, No. 1 in Michigan, No. 15 player nationally
Scout: Five stars, No. 3 inside linebacker, No. 14 player nationally
Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 74, No. 72 defensive end, No. 6 in Indiana, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 46 defensive end, No. 4 in Indiana, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 88 defensive end, unranked nationally
O'Brien Schofield, DE, Wisconsin
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 24 defensive end, No. 24 in Illinois, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 55 linebacker, unranked nationally
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 32 defensive tackle, No. 23 in Pennsylvania, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 3 defensive tackle, No. 1 in Pennsylvania, No. 31 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 8 defensive tackle, No. 55 nationally
Greg Jones, LB, Michigan State
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 71, No. 101 defensive end, No. 57 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 34 outside linebacker, No. 16 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 24 linebacker, unranked nationally
Navorro Bowman, LB, Penn State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 77, No. 22 inside linebacker, No. 11 in Maryland, unranked nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 12 inside linebacker, No. 9 in Maryland, No. 212 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 22 linebacker, unranked nationally
Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 26 inside linebacker, No. 5 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 57 linebacker, unranked nationally
Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 80, No. 8 cornerback, No. 8 in California, No. 86 nationally
Rivals: Five stars, No. 3 cornerback, No. 4 in California, No. 25 nationally
Scout: Five stars, No. 4 cornerback, No. 22 nationally
Sherrick McManis, CB, Northwestern
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among cornerbacks, No. 58 in Illinois
Rivals: Two stars, unranked among cornerbacks or state or nationally
Scout: Two stars, unranked among cornerbacks or nationally
Tyler Sash, S, Iowa
Class: 2007
ESPN's Scouts Inc: Grade of 69, No. 165 running back, No. 7 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Rivals: Three stars, No. 59 athlete, No. 5 in Iowa, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 82 safety, unranked nationally
Kurt Coleman, S, Ohio State
Class: 2006
ESPN's Scouts Inc: ESPNU 150, Grade of 81, No. 12 cornerback, No. 8 in Ohio, No. 125 nationally
Rivals: Four stars, No. 13 cornerback, No. 10 in Ohio, No. 183 nationally
Scout: Four stars, No. 14 cornerback, unranked nationally
Zoltan Mesko, P, Michigan
Class: 2005
ESPN's Scouts Inc: N/A
Rivals: Three stars, No. 2 kicker, No. 36 in Ohio, unranked nationally
Scout: Three stars, No. 4 punter, unranked nationally
Another interesting look back at who panned out. There certainly were several steals in this group (McManis, Sash, Jones), while others (Graham, Warren) lived up to the hype.
Wonder what these guys are up to today?
- Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor provides an update on his injured left knee and talks about his hopes to be a captain/role model in 2010, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Buckeyes defensive lineman Cam Heyward enjoys college too much to leave early, Ken Gordon writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
- New Illinois offensive coordinator Paul Petrino has hit the ground running in Champaign, Bob Asmussen writes in The (Champaign) News-Gazette.
- The Big Ten regained its swagger during a strong bowl season, Bob Hunter writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
- Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer had a hero's welcome at his high school over the weekend, Don Doxsie writes in the Quad City Times.
- Missouri must weigh the pros and cons to possibly joining the Big Ten, Blair Kerkhoff writes in The Kansas City Star.
- A snapshot of Penn State's quarterback situation heading into 2010 from The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News' Josh Langenbacher. Nittany Lions linebacker Sean Lee won't be playing in the Senior Bowl this week, Ron Musselman writes in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
- Michigan State shouldn't break from tradition and change its logo, Eric Lacy writes in The Detroit News.
National Signing Day is right around the corner, and Big Ten teams will look to add depth and identify a few immediate contributors in the upcoming recruiting classes. What do these squads need the most?
Here's a look:
ILLINOIS
Offensive line: The line hasn't been great the last two seasons, and Illinois loses standout Jon Asamoah and center Eric Block. Illinois looks strong at running back in 2010, but someone needs to create rushing lanes.
Safety: The Illini defense hasn't been the same since the departures of safeties Kevin Mitchell and Justin Harrison following the 2007 season. Ron Zook could really use a safety or two who could step in and contribute right away against the run and in coverage.
INDIANA
Defensive end: The Hoosiers lose two multiyear starters at end: Jammie Kirlew, a two-time All-Big Ten selection, and Greg Middleton, who led the nation in sacks in 2007. Indiana's pass rush will suffer unless it builds depth at end and throughout the line.
Secondary: Indiana loses starting safeties Austin Thomas and Nick Polk as well as its top cornerback, Ray Fisher. Expect the Hoosiers to go very heavy with defensive back recruits as they try to shore up an area that has been problematic during the last decade.
Offensive line: The situation on the line certainly is better than it was a year ago, but the departure of talented left tackle Rodger Saffold creates a void. Indiana is the type of team that always could use more depth up front so the drop-off between starters and backups isn't so dramatic.
IOWA
Offensive line: Iowa loses four linemen who started most or all of its games last year, including All-Big Ten performers Bryan Bulaga and Dace Richardson. The Hawkeyes can't expect freshmen to come in and start right away up front, but they need some insurance if injuries crop up.
Linebacker: Standouts Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds depart, and while Iowa has some guys ready to step in, it can always use depth in the defensive midsection. The Hawkeyes defensive line should sizzle in 2010, but they need sure tacklers at linebacker, too.
MICHIGAN
Secondary: There's no mystery here, as the Wolverines really struggled with breakdowns in the back four and lose standout cornerback Donovan Warren to the NFL draft. Michigan needs to bolster its talent level at both cornerback and safety to have improved results in 2010.
Linebacker: The Wolverines linebackers struggled in 2009, and there are opportunities for young players to step in here and contribute. Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton are back, but it's obvious this is another area Michigan must upgrade this coming season.
Specialists: Michigan loses both of its starting specialists, including All-Big Ten punter Zoltan Mesko, a Ray Guy Award finalist. This is always an area where a strong true freshman can step in and contribute immediately.
MICHIGAN STATE
Trenches: Line play was a weakness for the Spartans in 2009, and they'll be looking to upgrade on both sides of the ball. They lose top pass rusher Trevor Anderson as well as left tackle Rocco Cironi, center Joel Nitchman and guard Brendon Moss on the offensive line.
Secondary: This unit turned out to be a major disappointment, considering the preseason expectations. Michigan State loses safety Danny Fortener and corners Ross Weaver and Jeremy Ware, and there should be ample opportunities for freshmen to step in and play.
Linebacker: Probably not a critical need, but Michigan State needs to start preparing for life after Greg Jones. The Spartans also lose Adam Decker and Brandon Denson from the 2009 team, and Eric Gordon will depart with Jones after 2010.
MINNESOTA
Cornerback: The Gophers lose both of their starters, Traye Simmons and Marcus Sherels, and will be looking to build depth behind Michael Carter in 2010. I'm very excited about what Minnesota returns at safety, but the situation at corner seems a bit unsettled.
Offensive line: Minnesota will stick with the pro-style offense no matter who becomes its next coordinator, but for the system to truly click, the Gophers really need to upgrade their line. The team returns quite a few linemen for 2010, but it'll look for improved depth up front.
Running back: After finishing last in the Big Ten in rushing each of the last two seasons, Minnesota certainly will look to get better here. Kevin Whaley's departure creates a spot for a newcomer to compete with Duane Bennett and DeLeon Eskridge for carries.
NORTHWESTERN
Secondary: The Wildcats lose three multiyear starters in the secondary, including All-Big Ten honorees Sherrick McManis and Brad Phillips. They'll need to build depth around safety Brian Peters and corner Jordan Mabin to avoid a major drop-off.
Defensive line: Corey Wootton's departure leaves NU without a proven pass rusher who can command double teams. The Wildcats also will look to build depth at defensive tackle after losing Adam Hahn and Marshall Thomas.
OHIO STATE
Safety: This is one of few spots where Ohio State loses two long-time contributors in Kurt Coleman, a first-team All-Big Ten selection, and Anderson Russell. Though Jermale Hines played a lot in 2009, the Buckeyes want to build depth around him.
Wide receiver: If the Buckeyes' offense builds off of its Rose Bowl performance, the wideouts figure to be more involved. Ohio State should be fine for 2010 with DeVier Posey and Dane Sanzenbacher, but it could lose both after the season and needs to start grooming replacements. These recruits also could help the return game, where Ohio State loses Ray Small and Lamaar Thomas.
PENN STATE
Quarterback: Two-year starter Daryll Clark is gone and Pat Devlin transferred following the 2008 season, creating a wide open competition at quarterback heading into 2010. Kevin Newsome and Matt McGloin will compete, but Penn State always wants others in the mix there.
Linebacker: Penn State rarely has trouble reloading here, but it loses all three starters, including back-to-back first-team All-Big Ten selection Navorro Bowman. The Lions will look to build depth and identify an early contributor or two for the 2010 season.
Tight end/wideout: The Lions lose both Andrew Quarless and Mickey Shuler, so expect them to add a tight end or two in the incoming class. Quarless was a major part of the passing attack and Shuler hauled in two touchdowns, so Penn State won't neglect this position.
PURDUE
Secondary: A no-brainer here, as Purdue loses all four starters in the secondary, which has ranked in the upper half of the league against the pass. The Boilers likely need a newcomer or two to contribute right away in 2010.
Linebacker: Jason Werner hopes to return for a sixth year, but Purdue can't take any chances with a position that has struggled a bit the last two seasons. Danny Hope likes his young linebackers (Antwon Higgs, Dwayne Beckford), but he's looking for more.
Wide receiver/tight end: Purdue can never have enough pass receivers, and Hope will look to build around All-Big Ten performer Keith Smith in 2010. The Boilers lose No. 2 wideout Aaron Valentin, and Smith and tight end Kyle Adams depart after 2010.
WISCONSIN
Defensive line: All-Big Ten defensive end O'Brien Schofield departs, and the Badgers will be pretty young up front in 2010. It's important that Wisconsin builds depth behind players like J.J. Watt and Jordan Kohout.
Tight end: Lance Kendricks certainly eased concerns about this spot in the Champs Sports Bowl, but Wisconsin still loses All-Big Ten selection Garrett Graham as well as reserve Mickey Turner. No team in the Big Ten features the tight end spot as much as Wisconsin, so it'll be important to find a few recruits.
Here's a look:
ILLINOIS
Offensive line: The line hasn't been great the last two seasons, and Illinois loses standout Jon Asamoah and center Eric Block. Illinois looks strong at running back in 2010, but someone needs to create rushing lanes.
Safety: The Illini defense hasn't been the same since the departures of safeties Kevin Mitchell and Justin Harrison following the 2007 season. Ron Zook could really use a safety or two who could step in and contribute right away against the run and in coverage.
INDIANA
Defensive end: The Hoosiers lose two multiyear starters at end: Jammie Kirlew, a two-time All-Big Ten selection, and Greg Middleton, who led the nation in sacks in 2007. Indiana's pass rush will suffer unless it builds depth at end and throughout the line.
Secondary: Indiana loses starting safeties Austin Thomas and Nick Polk as well as its top cornerback, Ray Fisher. Expect the Hoosiers to go very heavy with defensive back recruits as they try to shore up an area that has been problematic during the last decade.
Offensive line: The situation on the line certainly is better than it was a year ago, but the departure of talented left tackle Rodger Saffold creates a void. Indiana is the type of team that always could use more depth up front so the drop-off between starters and backups isn't so dramatic.
IOWA
Offensive line: Iowa loses four linemen who started most or all of its games last year, including All-Big Ten performers Bryan Bulaga and Dace Richardson. The Hawkeyes can't expect freshmen to come in and start right away up front, but they need some insurance if injuries crop up.
Linebacker: Standouts Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds depart, and while Iowa has some guys ready to step in, it can always use depth in the defensive midsection. The Hawkeyes defensive line should sizzle in 2010, but they need sure tacklers at linebacker, too.
MICHIGAN
Secondary: There's no mystery here, as the Wolverines really struggled with breakdowns in the back four and lose standout cornerback Donovan Warren to the NFL draft. Michigan needs to bolster its talent level at both cornerback and safety to have improved results in 2010.
Linebacker: The Wolverines linebackers struggled in 2009, and there are opportunities for young players to step in here and contribute. Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton are back, but it's obvious this is another area Michigan must upgrade this coming season.
Specialists: Michigan loses both of its starting specialists, including All-Big Ten punter Zoltan Mesko, a Ray Guy Award finalist. This is always an area where a strong true freshman can step in and contribute immediately.
MICHIGAN STATE
Trenches: Line play was a weakness for the Spartans in 2009, and they'll be looking to upgrade on both sides of the ball. They lose top pass rusher Trevor Anderson as well as left tackle Rocco Cironi, center Joel Nitchman and guard Brendon Moss on the offensive line.
Secondary: This unit turned out to be a major disappointment, considering the preseason expectations. Michigan State loses safety Danny Fortener and corners Ross Weaver and Jeremy Ware, and there should be ample opportunities for freshmen to step in and play.
Linebacker: Probably not a critical need, but Michigan State needs to start preparing for life after Greg Jones. The Spartans also lose Adam Decker and Brandon Denson from the 2009 team, and Eric Gordon will depart with Jones after 2010.
MINNESOTA
Cornerback: The Gophers lose both of their starters, Traye Simmons and Marcus Sherels, and will be looking to build depth behind Michael Carter in 2010. I'm very excited about what Minnesota returns at safety, but the situation at corner seems a bit unsettled.
Offensive line: Minnesota will stick with the pro-style offense no matter who becomes its next coordinator, but for the system to truly click, the Gophers really need to upgrade their line. The team returns quite a few linemen for 2010, but it'll look for improved depth up front.
Running back: After finishing last in the Big Ten in rushing each of the last two seasons, Minnesota certainly will look to get better here. Kevin Whaley's departure creates a spot for a newcomer to compete with Duane Bennett and DeLeon Eskridge for carries.
NORTHWESTERN
Secondary: The Wildcats lose three multiyear starters in the secondary, including All-Big Ten honorees Sherrick McManis and Brad Phillips. They'll need to build depth around safety Brian Peters and corner Jordan Mabin to avoid a major drop-off.
Defensive line: Corey Wootton's departure leaves NU without a proven pass rusher who can command double teams. The Wildcats also will look to build depth at defensive tackle after losing Adam Hahn and Marshall Thomas.
OHIO STATE
Safety: This is one of few spots where Ohio State loses two long-time contributors in Kurt Coleman, a first-team All-Big Ten selection, and Anderson Russell. Though Jermale Hines played a lot in 2009, the Buckeyes want to build depth around him.
Wide receiver: If the Buckeyes' offense builds off of its Rose Bowl performance, the wideouts figure to be more involved. Ohio State should be fine for 2010 with DeVier Posey and Dane Sanzenbacher, but it could lose both after the season and needs to start grooming replacements. These recruits also could help the return game, where Ohio State loses Ray Small and Lamaar Thomas.
PENN STATE
Quarterback: Two-year starter Daryll Clark is gone and Pat Devlin transferred following the 2008 season, creating a wide open competition at quarterback heading into 2010. Kevin Newsome and Matt McGloin will compete, but Penn State always wants others in the mix there.
Linebacker: Penn State rarely has trouble reloading here, but it loses all three starters, including back-to-back first-team All-Big Ten selection Navorro Bowman. The Lions will look to build depth and identify an early contributor or two for the 2010 season.
Tight end/wideout: The Lions lose both Andrew Quarless and Mickey Shuler, so expect them to add a tight end or two in the incoming class. Quarless was a major part of the passing attack and Shuler hauled in two touchdowns, so Penn State won't neglect this position.
PURDUE
Secondary: A no-brainer here, as Purdue loses all four starters in the secondary, which has ranked in the upper half of the league against the pass. The Boilers likely need a newcomer or two to contribute right away in 2010.
Linebacker: Jason Werner hopes to return for a sixth year, but Purdue can't take any chances with a position that has struggled a bit the last two seasons. Danny Hope likes his young linebackers (Antwon Higgs, Dwayne Beckford), but he's looking for more.
Wide receiver/tight end: Purdue can never have enough pass receivers, and Hope will look to build around All-Big Ten performer Keith Smith in 2010. The Boilers lose No. 2 wideout Aaron Valentin, and Smith and tight end Kyle Adams depart after 2010.
WISCONSIN
Defensive line: All-Big Ten defensive end O'Brien Schofield departs, and the Badgers will be pretty young up front in 2010. It's important that Wisconsin builds depth behind players like J.J. Watt and Jordan Kohout.
Tight end: Lance Kendricks certainly eased concerns about this spot in the Champs Sports Bowl, but Wisconsin still loses All-Big Ten selection Garrett Graham as well as reserve Mickey Turner. No team in the Big Ten features the tight end spot as much as Wisconsin, so it'll be important to find a few recruits.
A strong Big Ten bowl season leaves me with some tough choices for the All-Bowl team. We can certainly debate some of these, especially the O-linemen, but here are my selections.
OFFENSE
QB: Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State
He came of age in the Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi, delivering a complete performance as both a passer and a runner. Pryor accounted for 338 total yards; Oregon had 260.
RB: John Clay, Wisconsin
Clay gave Miami a taste of Big Ten football by bulldozing the Hurricanes for 121 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries in the Champs Sports Bowl.
RB: Brandon Wegher, Iowa
It seemed like no running back could stay healthy for Iowa this year, but Wegher came up huge in the FedEx Orange Bowl. The true freshman had 113 rush yards on 16 carries, including the clinching 32-yard touchdown run with 1:16 left.
WR: DeVier Posey, Ohio State
I saw a future NFL receiver when I watched Posey in the Rose Bowl. He had eight receptions for 101 yards, including a leaping 17-yard touchdown that all but sealed Ohio State's victory.
WR: Andrew Brewer, Northwestern
Brewer saved his best game for last, hauling in eight receptions for 133 yards and scoring on receptions of 35 and 39 yards in the Outback Bowl.
TE: Drake Dunsmore, Northwestern and Lance Kendricks, Wisconsin
Dunsmore had nine receptions for 120 yards, including an electrifying 66-yard touchdown dash through the Auburn defense. Garrett Graham might be the first-team All-Big Ten selection, but Kendricks stole the show in the Champs Sports Bowl with seven receptions for 128 yards.
C: John Moffitt, Wisconsin
Moffitt moved back to center because of a teammate's injury and helped the Badgers overpower Miami in the Champs Sports Bowl. Wisconsin racked up 430 total yards and held the ball for 39:15.
G: Justin Boren, Ohio State
Boren led a big and nasty Buckeyes line that generated push for the run game and helped Pryor attempt a career high 37 passes in the win against Oregon.
G: Joel Foreman, Michigan State
The Spartans' offensive line stepped up nicely in the Valero Alamo Bowl, helping to generate 148 rush yards and allowing only one sack against a Texas Tech team that rushes the passer extremely well. Foreman, an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection, deserves some props.
OT: Bryan Bulaga, Iowa
Bulaga showed why he's jumping to the NFL draft with a terrific performance against Georgia Tech star defensive end Derrick Morgan in the FedEx Orange Bowl.
OT: Dennis Landolt, Penn State
Landolt and his linemates did a good job against LSU's blitz and protected Daryll Clark on a muddy field in Orlando. Penn State allowed only one sack and rushed for 124 yards.
DEFENSE
DL: Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
Clayborn was an absolute beast in the Orange Bowl, recording nine tackles (all solo) and two sacks as he disrupted Georgia Tech's triple option attack.
DL: J.J. Watt, Wisconsin
Watt led an aggressive Badgers defensive front with a sack, two tackles for loss, two pass breakups, a quarterback hurry and a fumble recovery against Miami.
DL: O'Brien Schofield, Wisconsin
Schofield was disruptive all season and showed it in the bowl game, recording two sacks and forcing a fumble that led to a crucial field goal in the fourth quarter.
DL: Thaddeus Gibson, Ohio State
The Buckeyes defensive front made life miserable for Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, and Gibson stepped up with two tackles for loss in what proved to be his final collegiate game.
LB: Navorro Bowman, Penn State
Bowman had a game-high nine tackles, including 1.5 for loss, and forced LSU into a critical penalty in the final minute as the Lions preserved a Capital One Bowl win.
LB: Ross Homan, Ohio State
Homan ended the season as one of the Big Ten's top linebackers and turned in a terrific performance in Pasadena with 12 tackles and an interception that set up a field goal just before halftime.
LB: Pat Angerer, Iowa
The triple option will test a middle linebacker, but Angerer stepped up for Iowa with a game-high 10 tackles, including one for loss, against Georgia Tech.
DB: Kyle Theret, Minnesota
Theret was the Gophers' MVP in the Insight Bowl, recording seven tackles (all solo), two interceptions, a tackle for loss and a 40-yard reception on a fake punt that set up the team's first touchdown.
DB: Ross Weaver, Michigan State
The Spartans' secondary struggled against Texas Tech, but Weaver recorded a team-high seven solo tackles and had a forced fumble and an interception that led to 10 Michigan State points in the second half.
DB: Kim Royston, Minnesota
Royston recorded a career-high 15 tackles, tying the Insight Bowl record, including 14 solo stops against Iowa State. He also forced a fumble that turned into a Minnesota field goal.
DB: Sherrick McManis, Northwestern
McManis made plays throughout his career and finished it in typical fashion with an interception and a fumble recovery, both occurring in Northwestern's end of the field.
SPECIALISTS
K: Collin Wagner, Penn State
The horrible field conditions didn't bother Wagner, who went 4-for-4 on field-goal attempts and drilled the game winner with 57 seconds left in the fourth quarter.
P: Blake Haudan, Minnesota
Haudan averaged 49.6 yards on five punts and completed a 40-yard pass to Theret on a well-timed fake in the third quarter.
Returner: Keshawn Martin, Michigan State
Martin blossomed as the Big Ten's most dangerous kick return man this fall and averaged 24.8 yards per runback with a long of 36 against Texas Tech.
Honorable mention -- WISCONSIN: QB Scott Tolzien, RB Montee Ball, P Brad Nortman, LB Chris Borland, TE Garrett Graham, starting offensive line. MINNESOTA: WR Da'Jon McKnight, LB Lee Campbell. NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, WR Zeke Markshausen, WR Sidney Stewart, CB Jordan Mabin, LB Quentin Davie. PENN STATE: QB Daryll Clark, RB Stephfon Green, TE Andrew Quarless, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, CB A.J. Wallace, starting offensive line. OHIO STATE: DE Cameron Heyward, DT Doug Worthington, RB Brandon Saine, WR Dane Sanzenbacher, K Devin Barclay, K Aaron Pettrey, P Jon Thoma, starting offensive line. MICHIGAN STATE: RB Edwin Baker, WR Blair White, P Aaron Bates, LB Greg Jones, starting offensive line. IOWA: QB Ricky Stanzi, TE Tony Moeaki, P Ryan Donahue, DT Karl Klug, LB A.J. Edds, DE Broderick Binns, starting offensive line.
OFFENSE
[+] Enlarge
Harry How/Getty ImagesTerrelle Pryor acccounted for more Rose Bowl yards than Oregon's team did.
He came of age in the Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi, delivering a complete performance as both a passer and a runner. Pryor accounted for 338 total yards; Oregon had 260.
RB: John Clay, Wisconsin
Clay gave Miami a taste of Big Ten football by bulldozing the Hurricanes for 121 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries in the Champs Sports Bowl.
RB: Brandon Wegher, Iowa
It seemed like no running back could stay healthy for Iowa this year, but Wegher came up huge in the FedEx Orange Bowl. The true freshman had 113 rush yards on 16 carries, including the clinching 32-yard touchdown run with 1:16 left.
WR: DeVier Posey, Ohio State
I saw a future NFL receiver when I watched Posey in the Rose Bowl. He had eight receptions for 101 yards, including a leaping 17-yard touchdown that all but sealed Ohio State's victory.
WR: Andrew Brewer, Northwestern
Brewer saved his best game for last, hauling in eight receptions for 133 yards and scoring on receptions of 35 and 39 yards in the Outback Bowl.
TE: Drake Dunsmore, Northwestern and Lance Kendricks, Wisconsin
Dunsmore had nine receptions for 120 yards, including an electrifying 66-yard touchdown dash through the Auburn defense. Garrett Graham might be the first-team All-Big Ten selection, but Kendricks stole the show in the Champs Sports Bowl with seven receptions for 128 yards.
C: John Moffitt, Wisconsin
Moffitt moved back to center because of a teammate's injury and helped the Badgers overpower Miami in the Champs Sports Bowl. Wisconsin racked up 430 total yards and held the ball for 39:15.
G: Justin Boren, Ohio State
Boren led a big and nasty Buckeyes line that generated push for the run game and helped Pryor attempt a career high 37 passes in the win against Oregon.
G: Joel Foreman, Michigan State
The Spartans' offensive line stepped up nicely in the Valero Alamo Bowl, helping to generate 148 rush yards and allowing only one sack against a Texas Tech team that rushes the passer extremely well. Foreman, an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection, deserves some props.
OT: Bryan Bulaga, Iowa
Bulaga showed why he's jumping to the NFL draft with a terrific performance against Georgia Tech star defensive end Derrick Morgan in the FedEx Orange Bowl.
OT: Dennis Landolt, Penn State
Landolt and his linemates did a good job against LSU's blitz and protected Daryll Clark on a muddy field in Orlando. Penn State allowed only one sack and rushed for 124 yards.
DEFENSE
DL: Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
Clayborn was an absolute beast in the Orange Bowl, recording nine tackles (all solo) and two sacks as he disrupted Georgia Tech's triple option attack.
DL: J.J. Watt, Wisconsin
Watt led an aggressive Badgers defensive front with a sack, two tackles for loss, two pass breakups, a quarterback hurry and a fumble recovery against Miami.
DL: O'Brien Schofield, Wisconsin
Schofield was disruptive all season and showed it in the bowl game, recording two sacks and forcing a fumble that led to a crucial field goal in the fourth quarter.
DL: Thaddeus Gibson, Ohio State
The Buckeyes defensive front made life miserable for Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, and Gibson stepped up with two tackles for loss in what proved to be his final collegiate game.
LB: Navorro Bowman, Penn State
Bowman had a game-high nine tackles, including 1.5 for loss, and forced LSU into a critical penalty in the final minute as the Lions preserved a Capital One Bowl win.
LB: Ross Homan, Ohio State
Homan ended the season as one of the Big Ten's top linebackers and turned in a terrific performance in Pasadena with 12 tackles and an interception that set up a field goal just before halftime.
LB: Pat Angerer, Iowa
The triple option will test a middle linebacker, but Angerer stepped up for Iowa with a game-high 10 tackles, including one for loss, against Georgia Tech.
DB: Kyle Theret, Minnesota
Theret was the Gophers' MVP in the Insight Bowl, recording seven tackles (all solo), two interceptions, a tackle for loss and a 40-yard reception on a fake punt that set up the team's first touchdown.
DB: Ross Weaver, Michigan State
The Spartans' secondary struggled against Texas Tech, but Weaver recorded a team-high seven solo tackles and had a forced fumble and an interception that led to 10 Michigan State points in the second half.
DB: Kim Royston, Minnesota
Royston recorded a career-high 15 tackles, tying the Insight Bowl record, including 14 solo stops against Iowa State. He also forced a fumble that turned into a Minnesota field goal.
DB: Sherrick McManis, Northwestern
McManis made plays throughout his career and finished it in typical fashion with an interception and a fumble recovery, both occurring in Northwestern's end of the field.
SPECIALISTS
K: Collin Wagner, Penn State
The horrible field conditions didn't bother Wagner, who went 4-for-4 on field-goal attempts and drilled the game winner with 57 seconds left in the fourth quarter.
P: Blake Haudan, Minnesota
Haudan averaged 49.6 yards on five punts and completed a 40-yard pass to Theret on a well-timed fake in the third quarter.
Returner: Keshawn Martin, Michigan State
Martin blossomed as the Big Ten's most dangerous kick return man this fall and averaged 24.8 yards per runback with a long of 36 against Texas Tech.
Honorable mention -- WISCONSIN: QB Scott Tolzien, RB Montee Ball, P Brad Nortman, LB Chris Borland, TE Garrett Graham, starting offensive line. MINNESOTA: WR Da'Jon McKnight, LB Lee Campbell. NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, WR Zeke Markshausen, WR Sidney Stewart, CB Jordan Mabin, LB Quentin Davie. PENN STATE: QB Daryll Clark, RB Stephfon Green, TE Andrew Quarless, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, CB A.J. Wallace, starting offensive line. OHIO STATE: DE Cameron Heyward, DT Doug Worthington, RB Brandon Saine, WR Dane Sanzenbacher, K Devin Barclay, K Aaron Pettrey, P Jon Thoma, starting offensive line. MICHIGAN STATE: RB Edwin Baker, WR Blair White, P Aaron Bates, LB Greg Jones, starting offensive line. IOWA: QB Ricky Stanzi, TE Tony Moeaki, P Ryan Donahue, DT Karl Klug, LB A.J. Edds, DE Broderick Binns, starting offensive line.
Early combine roster has 33 BT players
January, 12, 2010
Jan 12
10:28
AM ET
The official list of invitees to the NFL scouting combine should be available soon, but Sporting News has compiled a preliminary roster, which includes 33 players from the Big Ten. This list DOES NOT include juniors who have declared for the draft and will be updated with underclassmen and other seniors.
The combine takes place Feb. 24 through March 2 in Indianapolis.
ILLINOIS: G Jon Asamoah, TE Michael Hoomanawanui
INDIANA: DE Jammie Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, S Nick Polk, OT Rodger Saffold
IOWA: LB Pat Angerer, OT Kyle Calloway, LB A.J. Edds, TE Tony Moeaki, G Dace Richardson
MICHIGAN: DE Brandon Graham, P Zoltan Mesko, RB Brandon Minor
MICHIGAN STATE: K Brett Swenson, WR Blair White
MINNESOTA: WR Eric Decker, LB Simoni Lawrence, LB Nate Triplett
NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, CB Sherrick McManis, DE Corey Wootton
OHIO STATE: S Kurt Coleman, K Aaron Pettrey, DT Doug Worthington
PENN STATE: QB Daryll Clark, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, TE Andrew Quarless
PURDUE: DT Mike Neal, CB David Pender
WISCONSIN: TE Garrett Graham, DE O'Brien Schofield
The combine takes place Feb. 24 through March 2 in Indianapolis.
ILLINOIS: G Jon Asamoah, TE Michael Hoomanawanui
INDIANA: DE Jammie Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, S Nick Polk, OT Rodger Saffold
IOWA: LB Pat Angerer, OT Kyle Calloway, LB A.J. Edds, TE Tony Moeaki, G Dace Richardson
MICHIGAN: DE Brandon Graham, P Zoltan Mesko, RB Brandon Minor
MICHIGAN STATE: K Brett Swenson, WR Blair White
MINNESOTA: WR Eric Decker, LB Simoni Lawrence, LB Nate Triplett
NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, CB Sherrick McManis, DE Corey Wootton
OHIO STATE: S Kurt Coleman, K Aaron Pettrey, DT Doug Worthington
PENN STATE: QB Daryll Clark, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, TE Andrew Quarless
PURDUE: DT Mike Neal, CB David Pender
WISCONSIN: TE Garrett Graham, DE O'Brien Schofield
The best case-worst case rewind continues with ... Iowa.
In case you missed it: Iowa's best case-worst case.
Best-case synopsis: Iowa picks up where it left off last fall, overcomes a brutal road schedule and shows improvement on both sides of the ball. The team's young running backs fill in after the loss of Shonn Greene, and an improved pass rush helps a playmaking defense slow down opponents. Iowa goes 3-2 on the road, including an upset of Penn State, reaches the top 15 and finishes 10-2 before going on to a win against LSU in the Capital One Bowl.
Worst-case synopsis: The personnel losses combined with the rough road schedule proves too much for Iowa, which tumbles to a 5-7 finish. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi throws too many interceptions but gets little help from a Greene-less run game. Iowa struggles with injuries and doesn't many nearly as many plays on defense. Iowa goes 0-5 away from Kinnick Stadium and drops home contests against Northwestern and Minnesota. Off-field problems continue to hurt the program.
You can't handle the truth: (quotes from the original post) "The Hawkeyes pave the road in black and gold, the defensive line holds together and 'Stanzi is the Manzi' T-shirts are worn all across the state." ... "Wide receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos gets the message after his depth-chart demotion." ... "The defense misses tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul, but an improved pass rush combined with more playmaking from linebacker Pat Angerer, safety Tyler Sash, cornerback Amari Spievey and others more than makes up for it." ... "Iowa then ruins Mike Stoops' homecoming and takes care of Arizona." ... "Iowa doesn't flinch in front of the 'Whiteout' crowd, upsetting the Nittany Lions." ... "Stanzi records double digits in picks." ... "The season begins with a too-close-for-comfort win against Northern Iowa." ... "Iowa recovers against Indiana but drops its third consecutive home game to Northwestern." ... "[Bryan] Bulaga and Spievey bolt for the NFL."
Lies, lies, lies: "Running backs Jewel Hampton and Jeff Brinson find plenty of daylight." ... "The Hawkeyes easily handle Northern Iowa in the opener." ... "Stanzi makes sure the team avoids a letdown against Arkansas State." ... "Iowa overcomes its recent demons against Northwestern." ... "After squeaking by Arizona, Iowa heads to Happy Valley and pays the price for last year's upset at Kinnick Stadium. Penn State rolls the Hawkeyes by 20 points, giving Nittany Nation bragging rights on the Big Ten blog." ... "A bowl-bound Minnesota team then comes to Kinnick Stadium and rolls to a win." ... "The run defense crumbles without King and Kroul." ... "Left tackle Bryan Bulaga returns for his senior season."
Reality check: Iowa actually exceeded the best-case scenario, not only going 10-2 but reaching the FedEx Orange Bowl rather than the Capital One Bowl. A win against Georgia Tech capped a storybook season for the Hawkeyes, who overcame tons of adversity and went 4-1 on the road, including wins in State College and Madison. Stanzi was a mixed bag, throwing 14 interceptions in the first three quarters of games but coming up huge in the fourth. The defense continued its playmaking ways as end Adrian Clayborn became a superstar. The Hawkeyes restored themselves among the Big Ten's elite and set up a potential league title push in 2010.
In case you missed it: Iowa's best case-worst case.
Best-case synopsis: Iowa picks up where it left off last fall, overcomes a brutal road schedule and shows improvement on both sides of the ball. The team's young running backs fill in after the loss of Shonn Greene, and an improved pass rush helps a playmaking defense slow down opponents. Iowa goes 3-2 on the road, including an upset of Penn State, reaches the top 15 and finishes 10-2 before going on to a win against LSU in the Capital One Bowl.
Worst-case synopsis: The personnel losses combined with the rough road schedule proves too much for Iowa, which tumbles to a 5-7 finish. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi throws too many interceptions but gets little help from a Greene-less run game. Iowa struggles with injuries and doesn't many nearly as many plays on defense. Iowa goes 0-5 away from Kinnick Stadium and drops home contests against Northwestern and Minnesota. Off-field problems continue to hurt the program.
You can't handle the truth: (quotes from the original post) "The Hawkeyes pave the road in black and gold, the defensive line holds together and 'Stanzi is the Manzi' T-shirts are worn all across the state." ... "Wide receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos gets the message after his depth-chart demotion." ... "The defense misses tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul, but an improved pass rush combined with more playmaking from linebacker Pat Angerer, safety Tyler Sash, cornerback Amari Spievey and others more than makes up for it." ... "Iowa then ruins Mike Stoops' homecoming and takes care of Arizona." ... "Iowa doesn't flinch in front of the 'Whiteout' crowd, upsetting the Nittany Lions." ... "Stanzi records double digits in picks." ... "The season begins with a too-close-for-comfort win against Northern Iowa." ... "Iowa recovers against Indiana but drops its third consecutive home game to Northwestern." ... "[Bryan] Bulaga and Spievey bolt for the NFL."
Lies, lies, lies: "Running backs Jewel Hampton and Jeff Brinson find plenty of daylight." ... "The Hawkeyes easily handle Northern Iowa in the opener." ... "Stanzi makes sure the team avoids a letdown against Arkansas State." ... "Iowa overcomes its recent demons against Northwestern." ... "After squeaking by Arizona, Iowa heads to Happy Valley and pays the price for last year's upset at Kinnick Stadium. Penn State rolls the Hawkeyes by 20 points, giving Nittany Nation bragging rights on the Big Ten blog." ... "A bowl-bound Minnesota team then comes to Kinnick Stadium and rolls to a win." ... "The run defense crumbles without King and Kroul." ... "Left tackle Bryan Bulaga returns for his senior season."
Reality check: Iowa actually exceeded the best-case scenario, not only going 10-2 but reaching the FedEx Orange Bowl rather than the Capital One Bowl. A win against Georgia Tech capped a storybook season for the Hawkeyes, who overcame tons of adversity and went 4-1 on the road, including wins in State College and Madison. Stanzi was a mixed bag, throwing 14 interceptions in the first three quarters of games but coming up huge in the fourth. The defense continued its playmaking ways as end Adrian Clayborn became a superstar. The Hawkeyes restored themselves among the Big Ten's elite and set up a potential league title push in 2010.
A winning bowl record is on the line for both the ACC and the Big Ten as No. 9 Georgia Tech takes on No. 10 Iowa in the FedEx Orange Bowl on Tuesday night (Fox, 8 p.m. ET). Georgia Tech makes its first Orange Bowl appearance since 1967, while Iowa hopes for a better showing in Miami after getting crushed by USC 38-17 in the 2003 game.
As kickoff approaches, bloggers Heather Dinich (ACC) and Adam Rittenberg (Big Ten) break down an intriguing matchup that has largely flown under the national radar.
Heather Dinich: Well, Adam, it's almost time for the showdown of the two conferences whose recent bowl history has been suspect at best. Both the Big Ten and ACC have 3-3 records this postseason entering the Orange Bowl. Consider this game the tiebreaker. It’s been one of the most difficult games of the season to predict, but I think Georgia Tech's offense will come through as it has all season, the ACC will finish with a much-needed winning bowl record and the Big Ten will fall to 3-4 in the postseason. Besides, the Big Ten only has three teams with winning bowl percentages (granted, Iowa is one of them), so why should this year be any different?
Adam Rittenberg: You're right about the records, HD, but I'd like to challenge the ACC or any other league to go through the Big Ten's bowl lineup. No other lineup comes close in terms of difficulty with matchups and locations. I doubt the ACC would enjoy facing USC in its backyard every Jan. 1, especially after stumbling in all those Orange Bowls. I definitely agree with you about picking this game. It ain't easy (more on that later). Let's talk more about the game's premier matchup, Georgia Tech's triple option offense vs. Iowa's fundamentally sound defense. The Hawkeyes are very solid in all three phases of their defense, especially the front seven with Adrian Clayborn, Broderick Binns, Pat Angerer and others. Veteran defensive coordinator Norm Parker has had about a month to prepare for the triple option, and it still might not be enough time to stop Jonathan Dwyer and Josh Nesbitt.
Do you think a team has a major advantage with more time to prepare for Georgia Tech's offense, or are the Yellow Jackets simply too good on that side of the ball?
Dinich: As Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said, there is simply no way for Iowa – or any other team for that matter – to simulate what Georgia Tech can do, in terms of the precision, speed and playmakers who will execute it on Tuesday night. Yes, there is some advantage to having more than a week to prepare -- both Clemson and Miami devoted some of their summer camp to getting a head start on that conference game and it paid off (especially for Miami). The key is how long it will take Iowa’s defense to get comfortable with it? Norm Parker will have his players as prepared as they can be, and Iowa has the discipline it will take to stop them, but my question is whether or not the Hawkeyes have the offense to keep Georgia Tech off the field. The best defense against the Jackets is for Iowa to sustain its own drives and control the clock. Do the Hawkeyes have the offensive line to make that happen?
Rittenberg: That's an excellent question, Heather. Iowa's offensive line gets a lot of accolades, and the group boasts two first-team All-Big Ten performers in tackle Bryan Bulaga (Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year) and guard Dace Richardson. But most of us who have watched Iowa all season agree that at times, the line has underachieved. It's far from a bad O-line, but Iowa certainly has the potential to stall. According to ESPN's Stats & Information group, Iowa averages just 3.3 yards rushing on first down, which is seventh worst in the country. The Hawkeyes should have backs Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher on the field Tuesday night, and Richardson's return from injury will be huge, but they'll need to run the ball decently to set up the play-action passing attack. The line also needs to keep Derrick Morgan away from Ricky Stanzi, which won't be easy.
I was struck by something you wrote Monday, about Georgia Tech not being a catch-up team. That description fits Iowa, which has rallied in eight of its 10 victories. Iowa has been a pretty average team in the first three quarters, but a great one in the fourth.
Should Georgia Tech grab the early lead, how do you see things playing out?
Dinich: If Georgia Tech starts fast, it could be a long night for Iowa. On the flip side, though, it could make for one heck of an interesting fourth quarter. We both know Iowa has been one of the most exciting teams in the country to watch in the final minutes, but Georgia Tech has come from behind in seven of its last eight games, including in the ACC championship, when it trailed Clemson 34-33 in the fourth quarter. In fact, they had to come from behind to beat Clemson both times this season. I’ll be honest, I have no idea who’s going to win this game, but I think how Iowa’s defense starts will go a long way in revealing that answer to that. So what’s your final prediction on this one, Ritt?
Rittenberg: Ah, so they are a catch-up team. You trying to trick me, HD? As you know, Georgia Tech has several NFL-ready players and an offense that seems to be working well in other bowl games (Air Force, Navy). But having been around Iowa a lot this season, I can say there's something special about this Hawkeyes team, which just won't go away and continues to find ways to win games. The combination of Parker with a month to prepare and Stanzi's return to the lineup gives Iowa enough confidence to pull out another thriller, in come-from-behind fashion, of course. Iowa wins this one, 28-27. What say you?
Dinich: Haha yes, always trying to baffle the Big Ten. :) But really, if Iowa is the hot team early, that means they've figured Georgia Tech out, and the Jackets won't be able to overcome that, especially knowing how they've struggled defensively. That being said, I think Paul Johnson controls the clock, Stanzi gives up a gift or two (not five) and GT wins, 28-24. And knowing my picks and the ACC, that adds up to a win for the Hawkeyes.
As kickoff approaches, bloggers Heather Dinich (ACC) and Adam Rittenberg (Big Ten) break down an intriguing matchup that has largely flown under the national radar.
Tim Larson/Icon SMIGeorgia Tech has a lot of weapons on offense, including running back Jonathan Dwyer.
Adam Rittenberg: You're right about the records, HD, but I'd like to challenge the ACC or any other league to go through the Big Ten's bowl lineup. No other lineup comes close in terms of difficulty with matchups and locations. I doubt the ACC would enjoy facing USC in its backyard every Jan. 1, especially after stumbling in all those Orange Bowls. I definitely agree with you about picking this game. It ain't easy (more on that later). Let's talk more about the game's premier matchup, Georgia Tech's triple option offense vs. Iowa's fundamentally sound defense. The Hawkeyes are very solid in all three phases of their defense, especially the front seven with Adrian Clayborn, Broderick Binns, Pat Angerer and others. Veteran defensive coordinator Norm Parker has had about a month to prepare for the triple option, and it still might not be enough time to stop Jonathan Dwyer and Josh Nesbitt.
Do you think a team has a major advantage with more time to prepare for Georgia Tech's offense, or are the Yellow Jackets simply too good on that side of the ball?
Dinich: As Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said, there is simply no way for Iowa – or any other team for that matter – to simulate what Georgia Tech can do, in terms of the precision, speed and playmakers who will execute it on Tuesday night. Yes, there is some advantage to having more than a week to prepare -- both Clemson and Miami devoted some of their summer camp to getting a head start on that conference game and it paid off (especially for Miami). The key is how long it will take Iowa’s defense to get comfortable with it? Norm Parker will have his players as prepared as they can be, and Iowa has the discipline it will take to stop them, but my question is whether or not the Hawkeyes have the offense to keep Georgia Tech off the field. The best defense against the Jackets is for Iowa to sustain its own drives and control the clock. Do the Hawkeyes have the offensive line to make that happen?
Rittenberg: That's an excellent question, Heather. Iowa's offensive line gets a lot of accolades, and the group boasts two first-team All-Big Ten performers in tackle Bryan Bulaga (Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year) and guard Dace Richardson. But most of us who have watched Iowa all season agree that at times, the line has underachieved. It's far from a bad O-line, but Iowa certainly has the potential to stall. According to ESPN's Stats & Information group, Iowa averages just 3.3 yards rushing on first down, which is seventh worst in the country. The Hawkeyes should have backs Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher on the field Tuesday night, and Richardson's return from injury will be huge, but they'll need to run the ball decently to set up the play-action passing attack. The line also needs to keep Derrick Morgan away from Ricky Stanzi, which won't be easy.
I was struck by something you wrote Monday, about Georgia Tech not being a catch-up team. That description fits Iowa, which has rallied in eight of its 10 victories. Iowa has been a pretty average team in the first three quarters, but a great one in the fourth.
Should Georgia Tech grab the early lead, how do you see things playing out?
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIREIowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi's Hawkeyes have come from behind in eight of their 10 victories this year.
Rittenberg: Ah, so they are a catch-up team. You trying to trick me, HD? As you know, Georgia Tech has several NFL-ready players and an offense that seems to be working well in other bowl games (Air Force, Navy). But having been around Iowa a lot this season, I can say there's something special about this Hawkeyes team, which just won't go away and continues to find ways to win games. The combination of Parker with a month to prepare and Stanzi's return to the lineup gives Iowa enough confidence to pull out another thriller, in come-from-behind fashion, of course. Iowa wins this one, 28-27. What say you?
Dinich: Haha yes, always trying to baffle the Big Ten. :) But really, if Iowa is the hot team early, that means they've figured Georgia Tech out, and the Jackets won't be able to overcome that, especially knowing how they've struggled defensively. That being said, I think Paul Johnson controls the clock, Stanzi gives up a gift or two (not five) and GT wins, 28-24. And knowing my picks and the ACC, that adds up to a win for the Hawkeyes.
Wishing everyone a great weekend.
Vinnie from the ATL writes: What I would add to your division alignment is a yearly scheduled game in the opposite division or rival if you will. The SEC does this. Alabama plays Tennessee every year. Then there is Georgia vs. Auburn and Florida vs. LSU. The SEC has 5 division games, one rivalry from the opposite division, then 2 rotating games. Ohio State or Michigan should have Penn St and Iowa as its respective yearly rival even though the teams would be in opposite divisions
Adam Rittenberg: Yes, thanks for bringing this up, Vinnie. I should have mentioned this in my post. This formula would maintain the Ohio State-Penn State rivalry and maybe the Michigan-Penn State one, if the league wanted it that way. My bigger argument for splitting up Ohio State and Michigan is the possibility for a rematch in the Big Ten championship game. Imagine if both schools had their divisions wrapped up before meeting in Ann Arbor or Columbus. It would definitely take something away from those games if the teams knew they'd be playing again the next week at a neutral site. I really think the Big Ten wants to preserve the significance of the on-campus Ohio State-Michigan games.
Greg from Washington D.C. writes: Hey, Adam...are you sure that Penn State will be wearing their white unis in the bowl game? I thought that LSU favors their white threads home or away. I know plenty of PSU fans that would love to see the Lions wear their blue jerseys. It would only make sense that LSU wears white and PSU wears blue...I think both fan basis would be pleased with that.
Adam Rittenberg: Penn State still will be the "away" team for the Cap One Bowl, but you have it right, Greg. Since LSU wears its white unis at home, the Nittany Lions will be in blue for the game. I actually like Penn State's all-white unis as well, but the blue ones are classic.
Chris from Dubuque, Iowa, writes: Adam, I would love to hear your opinion on this situation. The news of Big Ten expansion has been revitalized this week. I understand the Big Ten's desire to acquire Rutgers or Syracuse for the New York TV market. I also understand adding Missouri or Pittsburgh would give the Big Ten the ability to add a title game. But doesn't the Big Ten realize that they have been sending two teams to the BCS in part because they do not have a title game? What is the estimated money break down between a conference title game vs. an additional BCS team.
Adam Rittenberg: Chris, you're absolutely right about the Big Ten getting fewer at-large BCS bowl teams if it expands to 12 teams. The Big Ten would have an advantage with the Rose Bowl agreement if it loses teams to the national title game, but you certainly would see fewer instances like the one this year, where a second-place Iowa team is going to the FedEx Orange Bowl. Now let's get to the money. The Big Ten receives an additional $4.5 million if a second team reaches a BCS bowl. It's safe to say a conference title game would generate much more money for a league like the Big Ten, which has tons of fans and nationwide interest. The SEC made $14.3 million from its championship game last year, and I'd imagine the Big Ten would pocket a similar sum.
Will from Cambridge, Mass., writes: Hi Adam,I am curious as to your opinion on the All-America teams. I thought at times the Big Ten was under-represented on the defensive side. I can understand Sean Lee and Navorro Bowman not getting as much support due to missed playing time, but Brandon Spikes a consensus AA? I can't help but think it is media bias there. Holiday Regards,Will
Adam Rittenberg: Spikes surprised me, too, Will. The Big Ten just wasn't a very hyped league this year on a national level, which hurt its individual stars. Once the Big Ten didn't win some of its key nonconference matchups, people really seemed to forget about the conference. It also doesn't help that the Big Ten is perceived to play an ugly brand of football, even though the league is stacked with defensive stars. Guys like Bowman, Michigan's Brandon Graham, Iowa's Pat Angerer and Ohio State's Kurt Coleman certainly should have appeared on more All-America teams.
Ben from Columbia, Md., writes: If the Big Ten does eventually expand to 12, I'm curious as to what would happen to the 12th team's former conference (obviously excluding Notre Dame). For instance, if Missouri jumps over to the Big Ten, what happens to the Big 12?
Adam Rittenberg: You could definitely see a domino effect, Ben, no matter which team joins the Big Ten. If Missouri joins, the Big 12 likely looks to the Mountain West for another member, as there are several good candidates (TCU, Utah, BYU). If the Big Ten gets a Big East team like Rutgers, you can bet Memphis will make a really strong push to get in that league. And if the Mountain West loses a team to the Big 12, that league could make a run at Boise State. It would be very interesting.
Vinnie from the ATL writes: What I would add to your division alignment is a yearly scheduled game in the opposite division or rival if you will. The SEC does this. Alabama plays Tennessee every year. Then there is Georgia vs. Auburn and Florida vs. LSU. The SEC has 5 division games, one rivalry from the opposite division, then 2 rotating games. Ohio State or Michigan should have Penn St and Iowa as its respective yearly rival even though the teams would be in opposite divisions
Adam Rittenberg: Yes, thanks for bringing this up, Vinnie. I should have mentioned this in my post. This formula would maintain the Ohio State-Penn State rivalry and maybe the Michigan-Penn State one, if the league wanted it that way. My bigger argument for splitting up Ohio State and Michigan is the possibility for a rematch in the Big Ten championship game. Imagine if both schools had their divisions wrapped up before meeting in Ann Arbor or Columbus. It would definitely take something away from those games if the teams knew they'd be playing again the next week at a neutral site. I really think the Big Ten wants to preserve the significance of the on-campus Ohio State-Michigan games.
Greg from Washington D.C. writes: Hey, Adam...are you sure that Penn State will be wearing their white unis in the bowl game? I thought that LSU favors their white threads home or away. I know plenty of PSU fans that would love to see the Lions wear their blue jerseys. It would only make sense that LSU wears white and PSU wears blue...I think both fan basis would be pleased with that.
Adam Rittenberg: Penn State still will be the "away" team for the Cap One Bowl, but you have it right, Greg. Since LSU wears its white unis at home, the Nittany Lions will be in blue for the game. I actually like Penn State's all-white unis as well, but the blue ones are classic.
Chris from Dubuque, Iowa, writes: Adam, I would love to hear your opinion on this situation. The news of Big Ten expansion has been revitalized this week. I understand the Big Ten's desire to acquire Rutgers or Syracuse for the New York TV market. I also understand adding Missouri or Pittsburgh would give the Big Ten the ability to add a title game. But doesn't the Big Ten realize that they have been sending two teams to the BCS in part because they do not have a title game? What is the estimated money break down between a conference title game vs. an additional BCS team.
Adam Rittenberg: Chris, you're absolutely right about the Big Ten getting fewer at-large BCS bowl teams if it expands to 12 teams. The Big Ten would have an advantage with the Rose Bowl agreement if it loses teams to the national title game, but you certainly would see fewer instances like the one this year, where a second-place Iowa team is going to the FedEx Orange Bowl. Now let's get to the money. The Big Ten receives an additional $4.5 million if a second team reaches a BCS bowl. It's safe to say a conference title game would generate much more money for a league like the Big Ten, which has tons of fans and nationwide interest. The SEC made $14.3 million from its championship game last year, and I'd imagine the Big Ten would pocket a similar sum.
Will from Cambridge, Mass., writes: Hi Adam,I am curious as to your opinion on the All-America teams. I thought at times the Big Ten was under-represented on the defensive side. I can understand Sean Lee and Navorro Bowman not getting as much support due to missed playing time, but Brandon Spikes a consensus AA? I can't help but think it is media bias there. Holiday Regards,Will
Adam Rittenberg: Spikes surprised me, too, Will. The Big Ten just wasn't a very hyped league this year on a national level, which hurt its individual stars. Once the Big Ten didn't win some of its key nonconference matchups, people really seemed to forget about the conference. It also doesn't help that the Big Ten is perceived to play an ugly brand of football, even though the league is stacked with defensive stars. Guys like Bowman, Michigan's Brandon Graham, Iowa's Pat Angerer and Ohio State's Kurt Coleman certainly should have appeared on more All-America teams.
Ben from Columbia, Md., writes: If the Big Ten does eventually expand to 12, I'm curious as to what would happen to the 12th team's former conference (obviously excluding Notre Dame). For instance, if Missouri jumps over to the Big Ten, what happens to the Big 12?
Adam Rittenberg: You could definitely see a domino effect, Ben, no matter which team joins the Big Ten. If Missouri joins, the Big 12 likely looks to the Mountain West for another member, as there are several good candidates (TCU, Utah, BYU). If the Big Ten gets a Big East team like Rutgers, you can bet Memphis will make a really strong push to get in that league. And if the Mountain West loses a team to the Big 12, that league could make a run at Boise State. It would be very interesting.
Nine BT players named AP All-Americans
December, 15, 2009
Dec 15
6:22
PM ET
The AP All-America teams are out, and the Big Ten had nine players recognized.
Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones is the league's only first-team selection, but several others made the second and third teams.
Here's the breakdown:
First team
Michigan State LB Greg Jones
Second team
Iowa LT Bryan Bulaga
Michigan DE Brandon Graham
Penn State DT Jared Odrick
Iowa LB Pat Angerer
Michigan P Zoltan Mesko
Third team
Penn State LT Dennis Landolt
Penn State LB Navorro Bowman Iowa S Tyler Sash
Penn State and Iowa have the most selections with three each. Bulaga and Landolt are the only All-Americans on the offensive side. As for Big Ten champion Ohio State? Not one All-American, though safety Kurt Coleman certainly deserved some serious consideration.
Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones is the league's only first-team selection, but several others made the second and third teams.
Here's the breakdown:
First team
Michigan State LB Greg Jones
Second team
Iowa LT Bryan Bulaga
Michigan DE Brandon Graham
Penn State DT Jared Odrick
Iowa LB Pat Angerer
Michigan P Zoltan Mesko
Third team
Penn State LT Dennis Landolt
Penn State LB Navorro Bowman Iowa S Tyler Sash
Penn State and Iowa have the most selections with three each. Bulaga and Landolt are the only All-Americans on the offensive side. As for Big Ten champion Ohio State? Not one All-American, though safety Kurt Coleman certainly deserved some serious consideration.
Sporting News names Big Ten All-Americans
December, 15, 2009
Dec 15
2:00
PM ET
The Sporting News came out with its All-America teams Tuesday, and the Big Ten represented pretty well.
Iowa left tackle Bryan Bulaga and Ohio State Kurt Coleman both were first-team selections, while five others also received honors.
Here's the breakdown:
First team
Iowa LT Bryan Bulaga
Ohio State S Kurt Coleman
Second team
Illinois G Jon Asamoah
Michigan DE Brandon Graham
Penn State LB Navorro Bowman
Third team
Penn State DT Jared Odrick
Michigan State LB Greg Jones
Interesting how Odrick and Jones, who shared Big Ten defensive player of the year honors, were slotted behind Bowman, Graham and Coleman. It was nice to see Coleman get some credit for being the best player on the best defense in the league. I was a bit surprised that an Iowa defender (linebacker Pat Angerer or safety Tyler Sash) didn't appear, and very surprised not to see Michigan punter Zoltan Mesko on the list.
Iowa left tackle Bryan Bulaga and Ohio State Kurt Coleman both were first-team selections, while five others also received honors.
Here's the breakdown:
First team
Iowa LT Bryan Bulaga
Ohio State S Kurt Coleman
Second team
Illinois G Jon Asamoah
Michigan DE Brandon Graham
Penn State LB Navorro Bowman
Third team
Penn State DT Jared Odrick
Michigan State LB Greg Jones
Interesting how Odrick and Jones, who shared Big Ten defensive player of the year honors, were slotted behind Bowman, Graham and Coleman. It was nice to see Coleman get some credit for being the best player on the best defense in the league. I was a bit surprised that an Iowa defender (linebacker Pat Angerer or safety Tyler Sash) didn't appear, and very surprised not to see Michigan punter Zoltan Mesko on the list.
Jones, Angerer named FWAA All-Americans
December, 14, 2009
Dec 14
9:00
AM ET
One of the most reputable All-America teams was unveiled during the weekend, as the Football Writers Association of America identified the nation's top college football standouts.
Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones and Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer both made the FWAA All-America squad. Jones earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors from the media, while both he and Angerer were consensus first-team All-Big Ten selections.
The SEC (7), Big 12 (4) and ACC (3) led the way in All-America selections, followed by the Big Ten (2), Pac-10 (2) and Mountain West (2).
Jones ranks third nationally in tackles (11.8 tpg), while Angerer comes in fifth (11.3 tpg). While Jones is an underclassmen with an extremely impressive profile in three years at Michigan State, head coach Mark Dantonio indicated in a statement that he expects the star linebacker to return in 2010.
Angerer, who led Iowa in tackles for the second straight season, earned co-MVP honors at Iowa's awards banquet Saturday night.
Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones and Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer both made the FWAA All-America squad. Jones earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors from the media, while both he and Angerer were consensus first-team All-Big Ten selections.
The SEC (7), Big 12 (4) and ACC (3) led the way in All-America selections, followed by the Big Ten (2), Pac-10 (2) and Mountain West (2).
Jones ranks third nationally in tackles (11.8 tpg), while Angerer comes in fifth (11.3 tpg). While Jones is an underclassmen with an extremely impressive profile in three years at Michigan State, head coach Mark Dantonio indicated in a statement that he expects the star linebacker to return in 2010.
"This is really Greg’s first full season playing at middle linebacker, so he will continue to grow in the position as we move forward," Dantonio said. "Greg possesses all of the tools, the tangibles and intangibles, which make him a special player. He's an extremely tenacious and instinctive player, who brings great energy and effort every time he steps on to the field. In addition, Greg is quick, strong and plays with tremendous toughness. He's the clear leader of our defense, and when he's going, we're going as a unit."
Angerer, who led Iowa in tackles for the second straight season, earned co-MVP honors at Iowa's awards banquet Saturday night.
The Big Ten went 0-for-1 on awards night Thursday, as the Ray Guy Award went to Georgia's Drew Butler rather than Michigan's Zoltan Mesko. Though I would have voted for Mesko, Butler's numbers are extremely impressive.
There was some good news on the awards front Thursday.
Iowa's Kirk Ferentz and Penn State's Joe Paterno both have been named finalists for the 2009 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. Ferentz, the 2009 Big Ten Coach of the Year, and Paterno are the only Big Ten representatives among the 10 finalists.
Where's Jim Tressel? It's amazing how little credit Tressel receives for Ohio State's turnaround this year.
Anyway, online voting for the award begins Dec. 15 and continues through Dec. 29. The winner will be announced Jan. 6 in Los Angeles before the BCS title game.
Five Big Ten players have been named to the Walter Camp Football Foundation's All-America team. Though the Big Ten surprisingly had no first-team honorees, the following players made the second team: Iowa offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham, Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones, Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer and Michigan punter Zoltan Mesko.
There was some good news on the awards front Thursday.
Iowa's Kirk Ferentz and Penn State's Joe Paterno both have been named finalists for the 2009 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. Ferentz, the 2009 Big Ten Coach of the Year, and Paterno are the only Big Ten representatives among the 10 finalists.
Where's Jim Tressel? It's amazing how little credit Tressel receives for Ohio State's turnaround this year.
Anyway, online voting for the award begins Dec. 15 and continues through Dec. 29. The winner will be announced Jan. 6 in Los Angeles before the BCS title game.
Five Big Ten players have been named to the Walter Camp Football Foundation's All-America team. Though the Big Ten surprisingly had no first-team honorees, the following players made the second team: Iowa offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham, Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones, Iowa linebacker Pat Angerer and Michigan punter Zoltan Mesko.
Video: Players to watch in bowl games
December, 10, 2009
Dec 10
11:15
AM ET
Big Ten blogger Adam Rittenberg presents five players who need to step up in bowl games.
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.
