ESPN College Football

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- New Penn State coach Bill O’Brien reiterates he has not watched and will not watch one frame of film from the team’s 2011 season.

That's not necessarily good news for Nittany Lions defenders Gerald Hodges and Jordan Hill. Both men could splice together some impressive highlight reels from last fall.

Hodges, an outside linebacker, earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches in his first full season as a starter, leading Penn State with 106 tackles, including 10 for loss and 4.5 sacks, and adding two forced fumbles and an interception. Hill was somewhat overshadowed by fellow Lions defensive tackle Devon Still, the Big Ten’s defensive player of the year, but he had a fine season in his own right, recording 59 tackles, including eight for loss and 3.5 sacks, to go along with a team-high three fumble recoveries and a forced fumble.

Both men could have bolted for the NFL draft, but both decided fairly early on that they'd return to Penn State and play for a coach who didn't care about what they had done in the past.

"I'm pretty sure [the coaches] heard about my style of play," Hodges told ESPN.com. "But I still feel it's my job to prove myself to them that I can play football, let them know as a man that I can play."

Hodges and Hill both are delivering the right messages this spring to the new coaching staff. O'Brien on Friday called Hodges "what you'd picture in a Penn State linebacker" and said Hodges has had one of the better springs on the squad. O'Brien told ESPN.com last week of Hill: "Excellent player, plays extremely hard and is technically sound."

The two seniors anchor a front defensive front seven that undoubtedly will be the team's strength in the first year of the new regime.

Both men have made position switches this spring that allow them to operate in more space. Hill is playing more at the 3-technique after spending most of last season at the nose (Still played the 3-technique). Rather than lining up over the ball, Hill is looking to shoot gaps between guards and tackles. Hill acknowledges the 3-technique is more of a glamor spot for defensive tackles.

At only 6-1, he’s able to keep his pads low and gain leverage against taller offensive linemen. He's also facing more 1-on-1 blocks, which he welcomes.

"You're playing against these big 6-7 guys, and they can’t reach you sometimes,” Hill said. "It's really an advantage at nose guard, too, because you're playing against 6-5, 6-6 centers and guards. They come at you on a double team, and if you're already at their hips, it's much easier."

Hill has played alongside elite defensive tackles throughout his time at Penn State. As a young player, he studied Jared Odrick, the Big Ten’s co-defensive player of the year in 2009 and a first-round pick in the 2010 draft. He spent last season lined up next to Still, a consensus All-American.

Although Hill is a different type of tackle than Odrick and Still, both of whom stand four inches taller, he took away traits from both. Odrick's motor never stopped, while Still’s drive in his final season made him a different player.

"It's definitely in the back of your head because you want to keep the defensive line moving, that tradition," Hill said. "As a defensive line, we're all one. If individual success comes from it, it’s because of the guys right next to me. Even with Dev's great success, he had an extraordinary year, [but] without Jack [Crawford], Eric [Latimore], me, that's not possible.

"It's the whole defensive line's effort."

Hodges, who began his Penn State career as a safety, moves from weakside linebacker to the strong side. Like Hill, Hodges' new position allows him to play more in space, a change he welcomes.

And like Hill, Hodges is aware of the tradition at his position at Linebacker U. He's not the first Penn State standout linebacker to shift to the strong side.

"Navorro [Bowman], Sean [Lee] and Paul [Posluszny], those guys, their last years they finally got to play strong side," Hodges said. "As guys' careers move to the end here, their last year, their last two years, they get moved to the strong side and are able to play out in space.

"It's something I take personally and something I take pride in."

Both Hodges and Hill have stood out this spring as Penn State absorbs a different defense under coordinator Ted Roof. Pass coverage will be a bigger emphasis for Hodges, who nearly picked off a short pass in a recent practice.

"Even though he had a great season last year, he's still hungry," middle linebacker Glenn Carson said. "He still wants to get better. That's the one thing that's going to make him a great football player."

Carson sees similar qualities in Hill.

"I'm seeing things from him on tape that you're just wowed by," Carson said. "He's an unbelievable athlete and just like Gerald, he's a hard worker. He's really hungry, chasing his dreams."

With Hodges and Hill leading the defense, Penn State can dream big in 2012.

As always, you can contact me here and follow me on Twitter.

Lance from Bedford, Pa., writes: Hi Adam, I may be beating a tired drum here but how much of Penn State's lack of success can really be attributed to youth (and how much to leadership and intangibles)? We see college freshmen perform solidly on the field all of the time (Matt Barkley, Chad Henne, T. Pryor to name only a few) without the luxury of a running back who is about to shatter the school's rushing record and a defense that has held its own despite injuries and turnover after turnover. I think this team as a whole looks beaten when they come out of the tunnel and at times, particularly against Illinois, completely disinterested. Throw in the recent finger pointing and this is surely a symptom of a messy locker room and not lack of talent or youth. I would love to hear your thoughts.

Adam Rittenberg: Lance, totally agree with what you say here. It's never easy to start a true freshman at quarterback like Penn State is doing with Rob Bolden, but team leadership seems to be a bigger issue. A large part of it is guys like Daryll Clark and Sean Lee don't come along every year. Throw in Joe Paterno's absence for a large chunk of the offseason and I think Penn State isn't sure who to turn to this year. Running back Evan Royster clearly is frustrated, and while I love how honest he was about the rushing record before the season, you have to wonder if he's taking the right mind-set to the playing field. The other thing with Penn State has been injuries to key players. Can't overlook those. But leadership is a problem, and it's up to captains Brett Brackett and Ollie Ogbu to get it corrected.

---

Ben from Austin, Texas, writes: Adam, what do you think the Big Ten's chances are of sending two teams to BCS bowls this year? Do we have a better chance if our squads don't get selected for the BCS Championship, given the selection rules the Rose Bowl is following this year?

Adam Rittenberg: Until the streak of two BCS bids per year ends for the Big Ten, I'll always list the chances at very high. And I don't think it matters too much if the Big Ten sends a team to the BCS title game and loses its Rose Bowl spot to Boise State or TCU. The Fiesta Bowl, Sugar Bowl and Orange Bowl will jump at the chance to select Big Ten teams with large traveling fan bases, certainly ahead of some Pac-10 teams being considered and maybe ahead of those from the SEC and Big 12, too.

---

Watson from Marshalltown, Iowa, writes: Hey Adam, great job on the blog. I really like your rewind/preview posts every week. Here's an idea: in the rewind, how about rehashing your picks from the previous week? It would probably make for some interesting comparison, as to whether some of them were spot-on or others were way off.

Adam Rittenberg: Watson, I'm going to put this question out there for everyone who reads this blog. I've added to my already full plate of posts this year with Big Ten stock report, so something had to go and it was the picks rewind. I can bring back the picks rewind but the stock report would have to go. Sorry, just not enough time to do it all with everything else asked of us. Which would you like to see more: stock report or picks review? Majority rules.

---

Daniel from Battle Creek, Mich., writes: Adam, I was wondering after just one game how can you write off the Wolverines as an explosive offense. I understand the turnovers were bad and sloppy play on offense, (we know that their defense is always sloppy) but we are one of the best offenses in the conference.

Adam Rittenberg: Don't be so sensitive, Daniel. The video post was about offensive evolution around the league. I didn't mean to slight Michigan, but Rich Rodriguez's scheme has been proven over time and once again is thriving with Denard Robinson calling the signals. I was looking at teams that have tweaked the scheme this year like Michigan State, Wisconsin, Ohio State and Purdue (last week with Rob Henry). Michigan's offense remains potent, as it has throughout Rodriguez's coaching career other than 2008.

---

Greg from Carbondale, Ill., writes: Are you serious with your midseason selection for best coach? Not to knock what MSU has done, but Vic Koenning clearly deserves consideration. He's taken one of the worst defenses in DI last year and made it a top 20 defense -- through games against #1 OSU and noncon opponents with more offensive firepower than any other Big10 team has played. WITH injuries to two key starters that have kept them out the entire season so far, and brand new starters at safety and corner. That's fantastic coaching.

Adam Rittenberg: Greg, the "best coach" category applies for head coaches or, in Michigan State's case, a coach handling the head-coaching duties like Don Treadwell did in Mark Dantonio's absence. I've given Vic Koenning a ton of credit on the blog -- more than any other national media member -- and I'd venture to say he has been the most effective first-year coordinator through the first half of the college season. He has some talent to work with, but unlike others, he's getting the talent to play together so far. It's great to see. Still, what Treadwell and Dantonio have done at Michigan State is phenomenal.

---

Jeremy from Minneapolis writes: Adam, you said this about the Wisconsin 2-point conversion: "Bielema claimed he was following the coaches' guide on when to go for two, but Minnesota coach Tim Brewster and many others saw it as an attempt to run up the score. Brewster might not get a chance for revenge in the rivalry..."That last sentence baffles me. Everyone here in Minnesota expects Brew to be fired as head coach of the Gophers. And if he isn't, you can mark it down, that pretty new stadium we have will be full of other Big Ten team's fans. My question for you is, is there REALLY any chance of Brew keeping his job (as your post almost seems to point to)? I guess it's kind of fitting, Brews first and last year as the head coach, Minnesota went 1-11.

Adam Rittenberg: Jeremy, I know Minnesota fans see this as a done deal, and I had major concerns about Brewster's future even before the season began. But we still have six games to play, and Minnesota has some winnable games the next two weeks against Purdue and Penn State before Ohio State comes to town. Brewster clearly needs to show some major progress ASAP, and he might not be able to save himself, but most people thought Ron Zook was finished at this time last year and look where Illinois' program is now. Anything can happen, but it doesn't look good for him or the Gophers.

---

Matt D. from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Adam,I'm really struggling as a Spartan fan this year. When I watch MSU games this year I no longer have that feeling of excitement mixed with dread and fear. When it's the forth quarter I'm not standing 18 inches away from my TV hoping the next play doesn't spell the end for the Spartans. Is everything OK? Is this how it feels to cheer for an elite program? It's all so new and I'm scared!!!

Adam Rittenberg: Haha, Matt, great e-mail. And I'm sure you're not the only Spartans fan to feel this way. Enjoy the ride! I'm sure it beats waiting for that second-half collapse. Then again, I wouldn't be surprised if you're a bit nervous on Saturday against Illinois. This is a classic trap game.

---

Christopher from Chicago writes: Simple question: does Northwestern need a running game? I'm only asking because it seems like they've moved the ball/controlled the clock fine against everyone through the air....yet continually fail with the running game as they try to achieve 50-50 run-pass balance. And it finally cost them this past week vs. Purdue....

Adam Rittenberg: It's something Northwestern has to evaluate closely during the bye week. Conventional football wisdom says you can't win, especially in the Big Ten, without a consistent rushing attack. But Northwestern won eight games last year with a woeful run game, and Dan Persa has been so efficient as a passer that he doesn't need much help from the ground game. Now throwing the ball 45-55 times has its risks -- sacks, interceptions -- but I'd like to see Persa throwing it more than he has. Jeremy Ebert and Drake Dunsmore are major weapons, and running the ball just for the sake of it rather than throwing to them doesn't make much sense. Northwestern didn't lose to Purdue solely because of the run game, but the Wildcats didn't attack the Boilers' secondary nearly as much as I thought they would.

---

Jordan A. from Washington writes: Adam, reflecting on Michigan's loss vs MSU on Saturday, does it feel like a perpetual problem with Rodriguez to get his teams up for big rivalry games? Before the game, it seemed like Michigan wasn't "up" at all, and the emotion pre-game seemed to be with the MSU players. For me, it felt a lot like the WVU-Pitt game in 2007, where a rival was just far and away more psyched for the game than Rodriguez's players were. It feels like this is two things happening: first, Rich Rod's out of state recruitment (and his own background, for that matter) makes MSU a minor rival--the Florida kids like Robinson and Coach Rod himself didn't grow up with this rivalry; and second, just Rich's personality, not to make big games a focal point on the calendar. This is, of course, in sharp contrast to Michigan's rivals in East Lansing and Columbus, who make beating Michigan a priority both privately and publicly. Do you think there is something to be said for this? And if so, do you think that, even if Michigan can win 7 or 8 games this year, beating MSU and OSU in 2011 is a must for Rich to keep his job?

Adam Rittenberg: Thanks, Jordan. You're not the only Michigan fan making the argument that Rodriguez and his players aren't connected enough to these rivalry games and perhaps lack the emotional fuel to win them. Quite frankly, I don't buy this at all. Rodriguez hasn't beaten Michigan State or Ohio State because he doesn't have a better team than the Spartans or the Buckeyes. Emotion can help you for half a quarter or so, but it doesn't typically lift you to a victory against a superior opponent. I thought Michigan came out with great energy Saturday and moved the ball downfield on its opening drive before Robinson threw the interception. Michigan will beat Michigan State and Ohio State when it has the better team, not when Rodriguez plays up the rivalry enough to satisfy Michigan fans (who might never be satisfied). A Michigan alum could coach a bunch of homegrown players and if his team wasn't better, he'd probably lose, too.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Record: 3-3 (0-2 Big Ten)

Penn State entered the season with somewhat tempered expectations after losing more individual standouts -- seven All-Big Ten performers from 2009, including three first-team selections -- than any team in the league. But no one in Happy Valley expected this. The Nittany Lions reach the midpoint of the season at 3-3, but totally unsure of who they are after getting pounded at home by Illinois. They rank last in the Big Ten in both scoring (18.2 ppg) and total offense (335.2 ypg), struggles you can attribute partly to starting a true freshman quarterback in Rob Bolden. But Bolden doesn't deserve blame for a unit that boasts a senior running back in Evan Royster and enough experience along the offensive line. Penn State twice has been held out of the end zone and hasn't eclipsed 24 points against an FBS opponent. The defense held up nicely for a while, but injuries both before and during last Saturday's game against Illinois leave the unit depleted. If Tom Bradley can't fill gaps after the bye week, it could be a very long second half. Penn State clearly has enough talent to turn things around, but the preseason questions about leadership, from Joe Paterno on down, are very real. It's very hard to replace replace leaders like Daryll Clark and Sean Lee, and Paterno's involvement after a rough spring/summer of health-related issues is up for debate.

Offensive MVP, WR Derek Moye: There aren't many candidates for a struggling unit, but Moye turned in a nice first half. The junior leads Penn State in both receptions (22) and receiving yards (17.1 ypg), and he has showcased his big-play ability on more than one occasion, hauling in an 80-yard touchdown from Bolden against Illinois. Fellow wideouts Brett Brackett and Devon Smith also have done some good things.

Defensive MVP, LB Chris Colasanti: Safety Nick Sukay (3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble) has made more impact plays, but Colasanti's overall production can't be overlooked for a defense that held its own before the injury bug struck. Colasanti leads the Big Ten with 59 tackles, including 18 against Illinois, the highest single-game total at Penn State since Dan Connor in 2007. Colasanti boasts four tackles for loss and a pass breakup.

In the past, offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski never had to bring a compass to Penn State practice.

Veteran leaders like Daryll Clark, Sean Lee, A.Q. Shipley and Josh Gaines drove the bus, and everyone knew the direction in which the Nittany Lions were headed. Wisniewski merely had to hop on board.

It's not that simple in Happy Valley this season.

Penn State knows where it wants to go and what it wants to be, but there are fewer certainties. Starting quarterback Rob Bolden has been a college player for less than two months. The offensive line is still settling in after an offseason shuffle. Several of the key contributors on defense are new.

Where is Penn State headed this fall? It's still to be determined.

"It's a little different," Wisniewski said. "It takes a little bit a longer to see what you got when you have some younger guys. We know they're very talented, but it takes getting into a season to see how well they're going to develop."

A Week 2 trip to No. 1 Alabama showed Penn State how far it needs to go. The Lions responded last week against Kent State, blanking the Golden Flashes 24-0, though the win left some lingering doubts about the offense.

Penn State faces another huge test Oct. 2 at No. 18 Iowa in the Big Ten opener, but first it takes on an undefeated Temple team brimming with confidence and seeking a historic upset Saturday at Beaver Stadium (Big Ten Network, 3:30 p.m. ET).

Despite a mid-game offensive lull against Kent State, Wisniewski and his linemates gained confidence from the way they started and finished. The offensive line had been a question mark entering the season, but Penn State is the only FBS team yet to allow a quarterback sack through the first three games.

The Lions also received a second-half boost from backup running back Stephfon Green, who rushed for 59 yards on only 11 carries.

"Offensively, we saw signs that we can have a very balanced attack, and that can create problems for people," Wisniewski said. "We’re starting to do well picking up some of the more complex blitzes and things defenses are throwing at us. You can see it in that we haven't given up a sack here in three games, which is excellent, given how many different [position] changes we had."

Penn State's biggest question mark on offense remains one of the unit's few guarantees entering the season -- senior running back Evan Royster. The first-team All-Big Ten selection from 2009 has yet to eclipse 40 rushing yards in the first three games.

Royster reached the end zone for the first time against Kent State but also fumbled in the third quarter and saw his duties limited. The senior returned to Penn State in part to be a featured back this fall, but he has had to share carries with Green, a veteran reserve, and emerging freshman Silas Redd. Left tackle Quinn Barham told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that "we're worried" about Royster's struggles.

"I’m sure he'd like to get the ball a little bit more, but he’s handling it well," Wisniewski said. "He knows that the heart of our season is still to come."

Wisniewski shot down the notion that Royster might be pushed for his starting spot.

"He doesn't need to earn the job," Wisniewski said. "It’s his job. He's got 3,000 yards rushing. That's not something he needs to worry about."

Coach Joe Paterno doesn't sound as concerned as he did leading up to the season. There are the typical JoePa lines -- "I couldn't tell you there's one area where I'm completely satisfied," he said Tuesday -- but aside from being more competitive at Alabama, the team has developed on schedule.

Paterno identified consistency in the run game and forcing more turnovers as two things Penn State must achieve in the coming weeks.

"I've been optimistic that one of these days, we're going to be a pretty good football team," Paterno said. "We’re not there yet. We're a little better now than we were to start with. ... Hopefully, we'll have a good week and play a little better against Temple than we've played so far this year, and I think we'll have to, to win it.

"We've done about as well as I could expect."

The morning after Penn State's first full-contact practice of fall camp, linebacker Michael Mauti woke up in pain.

The good kind of pain.

"I was like, 'Oh, this is what it feels like to be hitting again,'" Mauti recalled. "But it definitely felt good to get out there and start hitting and get that feeling again."

It sure beats the alternative.

Mauti experienced a different pain a year ago, both physically and emotionally. After a strong start to camp -- many projected him as a starter for the season -- Mauti tore the ACL in his right knee. Season over.

Penn State's next great linebacker prospect spent the fall on the sideline. Fortunately for him, the view wasn't bad, as he could study linebackers Navorro Bowman, Sean Lee and Josh Hull, each of whom earned All-Big Ten honors in 2009.

"I've probably watched more football than ever," Mauti said, "so I'm just really looking forward to getting back out there come September, and make plays. The way I look at it is I've had the last year to prepare for this season."

Mauti went through spring practice in a somewhat limited role and didn't feel fully comfortable with the knee until June, where he could "run and wouldn't feel anything." He entered camp with no restrictions on contact and has progressed well.

"I'm very happy with what he's done so far," Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Bradley told me Sunday. "The knee has gone fine. We've done everything we can with him; we haven't backed off of anything. Sometimes in two-a-days, they'll take him out of a conditioning thing just to be careful, but he doesn't beg out of it.

"He's a tough, tough player."

Ranked by ESPN Recruiting as the nation's 58th best prospect 2008, Mauti arrived at Penn State with plenty of attention. His father, Rich, starred for the Nittany Lions as a wide receiver before playing eight seasons in the NFL. Mauti's older brother Patrick was a senior receiver for Penn State in 2009.

Needless to say, Nittany Nation was aware of the younger Mauti, who showed promise as a true freshman with 26 tackles, including a filthy hit on Michigan's Sam McGuffie that jarred the ball loose on a kickoff return.

Although a large group of linebackers are competing for three starting spots in camp, it's pretty clear who Penn State fans want to see win a job.

"It's awesome," Mauti said. "I feel when people are looking at you and asking about you, that's a cool feeling."

Mauti isn't the first Penn State linebacker to go through a major knee injury in recent years.

Paul Posluszny and Lee both suffered ligament damage, and both bounced back rather well to earn All-Big Ten honors.

"I watch tapes of Sean and Paul and Dan Connor all the time," Mauti said. "Just the way they played, how sound their technique is, I try to take little parts of their game and try to practice that. You could say looking at things from a different perspective, the game slowed down a little bit.

"I’ve been flying around and feeling good, and I think I'm ready."

As always, contact me here and join more than 14,000 of your closest friends following me on Twitter.

Adam from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Just read your Camp Preview for Ohio State. Not sure how you see David Durham making an instant impact. You do realize they are going to start him out at LB, arguably the deepest position on OSU's roster. Not sure how he is going to beat out the likes of Dorian Bell, Andrew Sweat, Storm Klein, Jonathon Newsome, and Jordan Whiting? Christian Bryant making an immediate impact as well? Do you even look at the depth chart and/or roster? The defensive secondary is possibly the second deepest position on the team. Do you think guys like Donnie Evege, Nate Oliver, Corey Brown, Travis Howard, Dominic Clarke, and Zach Domicone are all going to quit? How about doing some research before making statements and predictions that have no chance of proving true.

Adam Rittenberg: Adam, you're right, none of the Buckeyes freshmen will many any impact this year. No chance. We're talking about a category in a training camp preview, not a proclamation that guys definitely will see the field. It might happen, it might not. You're right about the depth at linebacker, but the secondary is definitely not the second-deepest group on the team. Ohio State has more proven depth at offensive line, running back and linebacker, and I like the defensive line group better than the secondary. Sure, several defensive backs return, but Ohio State loses Kurt Coleman and Anderson Russell at safety. Chimdi Chekwa and Jermale Hines are nice pieces, but I don't see anyone back there who you can say is a sure-fire all-conference player.

---

Greg from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: "Geography shouldn't be a deciding factor," you wrote regarding Big Ten football divisions. "Not that many fans travel to road games as you think."That may be true for some teams, but not Iowa. Away game tickets can be very hard to get, even for many season ticket holders who are donors. And Hawkeye fans have been known to outnumber the home team's fans at Minnesota and Northwestern.

Adam Rittenberg: Greg, I'm well aware of Iowa fans' fondness for traveling, but on the whole, road travel among Big Ten fans is down. And while the league wants to accommodate its fans, it also must look at the bigger picture, specifically television appeal. My problem with divisions based on geography is that when (not if) Ohio State, Penn State and Michigan all are good in the same year, no one nationally will care about the other division. That's not a knock against what Wisconsin and Iowa do on the field, but those are excellent regional programs that don't appeal nationally as much as Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan and Nebraska do. That's my concern.

---

Rakesh from Memphis writes: Hey Adam,Everyone talks about Zook getting canned but can they even afford it? And if they buy out his contract then how are they going to pay a quality coach for the next round?

Adam Rittenberg: Rakesh, these are very relevant questions. After spending so much money on new coordinators Paul Petrino and Vic Koenning, Illinois might have to consider whether or not to take another financial hit if it comes down to that. I can't see how you push forward after another three- or four-win season, especially after all the pressure from boosters and others to make a change. But AD Ron Guenther seems willing to let this situation run its course. Your second question is a good one, too. If you buy out the remainder of Ron Zook's contact, can you spend enough to get a solid replacement? It won't be easy, especially given the budgetary struggles in the state right now. At least Illinois has some stability at the top with a new president.

---

Scott from Knoxville, Tenn., writes: Adam, nice blog. If the BT moved OSU and UofM into different divisions, the game would need to be earlier in the season, why not opening BT game, and then a week off for each team as their bye week-end. The players that I have talked to, say that they would need a week off just to get over the physcial play that their body had to endure in that game. That would book end the season and really move the needle. Also the loser would have the season to make up for the loss. What do you think?

Adam Rittenberg: Wow, an Ohio State-Michigan Big Ten opener? That would seem pretty strange. It also would be tough to have a permanent bye week for those two teams while rotating the bye weeks for the other 10 Big Ten squads (Nebraska included). If they move The Game, and I'm not sold on moving it, I'd rather see it played in mid to late October. There's enough of a gap before the end of the regular season, and it could shape the league title race in certain years.

---

Steve from State College, Pa., writes: Adam,Love the blog and it keeps me goin throughout the day. My question is about Penn State's linebackers. Obviously they won't be as good as Lee, Bowman and Hull but no one expects them to be. People expect them to carry on "Linebacker-U". I feel Stupar, Mauti and Gbadyu can keep that tradition going. But what about the other guys? Hodges, Colasanti, and Yancich. Hodges is a converted safety and if he was still at safety he would kill people. Whats your take on that position for Penn State?

Adam Rittenberg: Gerald Hodges is a guy I'm really looking forward to seeing on the field this fall. He played sparingly in 11 games in 2009 and recorded three tackles, but he should be a much bigger presence in 2010. Chris Colasanti may or may not start, but he boasts a lot of experience as a reserve the past three years. He'd start on several Big Ten teams this fall. The reports on Michael Yancich are very favorable, and he should see the field a good amount this fall. So you're right: the linebackers won't be as decorated as Navorro Bowman, Sean Lee and Josh Hull were in 2009, but the overall depth should help Penn State continue the Linebacker U. tradition.

---

Dirk from Cincinnati writes: Are you Jared from the Subway commercials?

Adam Rittenberg: I wish. I'd be A LOT richer.

---

Kyle from Fort Worth, Texas, writes: Hey Adam,A future Big Ten member here, and I read your article about splitting up Michigan and OSU, and I think that is a terrible idea. Coming from the Big 12 I can tell you that will destroy the rivalry the same way it did with Nebaska and Oklahoma. The final game of the regular season in each division needs to be OSU vs Michigan in one and Nebraska vs PSU/Iowa/Wisconsin in the other. That way the OSU-MU rivalry still potentially decides the Big Ten Champion the same way it has for many years.

Adam Rittenberg: Kyle, thanks very much for the perspective. It's a real shame how the Big 12 destroyed Nebraska-Oklahoma, and the Big Ten certainly should learn from what happened. Now, the Big Ten never will let the Ohio State-Michigan game go off the schedule in any season, but it must preserve the integrity of the rivalry. I'd love to see the Big Ten have a second blockbuster matchup to go up against Ohio State-Michigan on the final Saturday of the regular season, whether it be Nebraska-Penn State, Nebraska-Iowa or Nebraska-Wisconsin. All three of those games would get some play nationally, especially Nebraska-Penn State.

---

Nick from Madison, Wis., writes: Wisconsin's offensive line is looking to be one of the best in the nation. What would be a good name for this squad? Moffits marauders? the big red blockade? I'm sure you/the blogosphere can do better.

Adam Rittenberg: I'll open this one up to the group. Suggestions? Here's one option: The Thick Red Line. Here's another: The Madison Block Party.

Schedule: First practice takes place today in State College. Practices will be scheduled around the end to Penn State's second summer academic session, which has final exams beginning Aug. 13.

What's new: Quite a lot. Penn State loses six first-team All-Big Ten performers from 2009, including quarterback Daryll Clark and defensive tackle Jared Odrick, the league's co-Defensive Player of the Year. All eyes will be on the quarterback spot as last year's backup, Kevin Newsome, competes alongside Matt McGloin and two true freshmen, Paul Jones and Robert Bolden. The Lions also will have a new-look lineup at linebacker, although Nate Stupar and Bani Gbadyu are familiar names.

Key battle: Everyone knows about the quarterback race, which likely won't be decided until late in camp. But there are other battles, too. The offensive line has to be better this year after struggling against elite defensive fronts like Iowa and Ohio State in 2009. Penn State is set with standout Stefen Wisniewski at right guard, but the left guard spot will feature plenty of competition between DeOn’tae Pannell and Johnnie Troutman. Both players have experience but one needs to emerge.

New on the scene: Penn State brings in the Big Ten's top recruiting class and should see some immediate contributions from its freshmen. You know about the quarterbacks, but keep an eye on defenders like Khairi Fortt, Dakota Royer, C.J. Olaniyan and Mike Hull. Penn State must replace five starters on defense and build depth there as well.

Switching it up: Chaz Powell ranked fourth on the team in receiving last season, but he practiced at cornerback this spring and could be a big contributor there. Sophomore Stephon Morris did some good things as a true freshman in 2009, but Powell should push him.

Breaking out: You just know Penn State will have a new group of stars on defense after losing Odrick, Navorro Bowman, Sean Lee and others. Devon Still is poised for a big season at defensive tackle if he can stay healthy, and Jack Crawford could take the next step and become one of the league's premier pass-rushers. The linebacker group should be very interesting, as Michael Mauti, a fan favorite, gets his opportunity to shine. If Penn State finds a capable quarterback, wide receiver Derek Moye might have a breakout season.

Back in the fold: Mauti tore his ACL in camp last summer and missed the entire 2009 season. He'll definitely be in the mix for a starting spot, most likely at outside linebacker.

Quoting: "We've got a tough schedule and we've got a good young squad that's got a long way to go to be good. We've got a bunch of kids that'll work at it and get better each week. Before it's all over, we'll be a pretty good football team. How many games we'll win? I don't know." -- Head coach Joe Paterno

For your information, I don't have an ego. My Facebook photo is a landscape.

• Ohio State, Wisconsin and Iowa boast some of the nation's top home-field advantages, Matt Hayes and Dave Curtis write in The Sporting News.
• Michigan produced the Big Ten's top pick in the 2010 NFL draft (Brandon Graham), but next year's draft looks a bit bleak for the Wolverines, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press. A simpler approach is a better one for Michigan's defense, Angelique Chengelis writes in The Detroit News.
• Despite being a co-captain in 2009, Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins feels much more comfortable as a leader this year, Shannon Shelton writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette's Marc Morehouse takes this post one step further and asks Iowa fans who they want to face in the regular-season finale.
• Penn State added to its linebacker tradition with Sean Lee, Josh Hull and Navorro Bowman, Ron Musselman writes in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
• Jack Mewhort will be part of the mix with Ohio State's offensive line this fall, Matt Markey writes in The Toledo Blade.
• Academics will play a role in the Big Ten's expansion push, Jeff Rabjohns writes in The Indianapolis Star. But it's still all about the money, Reggie Hayes writes in The (Fort Wayne) News-Sentinel.
• Big Ten expansion could really create chaos in college hoops, colleague Eamonn Brennan writes.

All the talk about potential Big Ten expansion and the final week of spring football in the league has prevented me from weighing in on a little event called the NFL draft.

It's sort of a big deal. Especially around here.

As everyone knows, the draft is moving to prime time, and the first round takes place tonight (ESPN, 7:30 p.m. ET).

What's in it for Big Ten football fans?

Well, you'll almost certainly see three Big Ten players drafted, and possibly more. ESPN experts Todd McShay and Mel Kiper Jr. each have four Big Ten players going in the first round of their mock drafts.

Here's how I see the Big Ten's first-round hopefuls:

Locks: Iowa LT Bryan Bulaga, Michigan DE Brandon Graham, Penn State DT Jared Odrick

Near lock: Indiana LT Rodger Saffold

Possibility: Illinois WR Arrelious Benn

Long shots: Penn State LB Sean Lee, Ohio State LB/DE Thaddeus Gibson

Barring a major surprise, Bulaga will be the first Big Ten player selected, followed by Graham. There are too many teams at the bottom of the first round who love Odrick, and one will pull the trigger. Saffold has really improved his stock during the pre-draft session and is a projected first-rounder, according to many outlets. I still think Benn will be an outstanding pro, but he might not have done enough at the college level to warrant a first-round selection. Lee and Gibson also should do well at the next level, but I'd be surprised if they go in the first round. If Gibson isn't picked tonight, it will mark just the fifth time in the last 20 years that Ohio State hasn't produced a first-round selection.

Enjoy draft night, everyone.

Gearing up for a big week in the Big Ten.

• The Big Ten needs to force Notre Dame's hand with the expansion push, Bob Hunter writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Ohio State's defense dominated Saturday's jersey scrimmage, leaving the offense stunned, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
• Ron Zook's top recruits at Illinois this winter were his new coordinators, Herb Gould writes in the Chicago Sun-Times.
• Wide receiver Kraig Appleton won't return to Wisconsin, while two teammates could work their way back, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Badgers backup quarterback Jon Budmayr looked shaky in the spring game, Tom Oates writes in the Wisconsin State Journal.
• Iowa passes the eye test in spring practice, Pat Harty writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Jeff Tarpinian steps up as the Hawkeyes' top middle linebacker, Marc Morehouse writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette.
• Michigan's quarterbacks scramble and buy time, just like head coach Rich Rodriguez, and all parties need to make progress in 2010, Bob Wojnowski writes in The Detroit News. Wolverines' safety Cameron Gordon stepped up for the team and switched positions, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• With few healthy running backs on the field, Purdue's quarterbacks stood out in Saturday's spring game, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• Michigan State is building depth at running back with freshmen Nick Hill and Le'Veon Bell, Joe Rexrode writes in the Lansing State Journal.
• Minnesota safety Kim Royston underwent leg surgery Friday, and there's a chance he could be back for the season opener, Kent Youngblood writes in the Star Tribune.
• Former Penn State linebacker Sean Lee could be a sleeper pick in this weekend's draft, Keith Pompey writes in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

My basketball responsibilities caused me to fall behind on monitoring pro days at Big Ten schools, but I'm back in football mode now. Four Big Ten schools -- Illinois, Michigan State, Penn State and Northwestern -- all held their annual pro days on Wednesday, and here are some highlights.

ILLINOIS

• Wide receiver Arrelious Benn certainly helped himself by clocking a 4.36 in the 40-yard dash, more than a tenth of a second faster than his time (4.48) at the NFL combine.
• Wide receiver/tight end Jeff Cumberland clocked a 4.46 in the 40. Cumberland boasts excellent size, but his pass-catching ability has been questioned.
• Tight end Michael Hoomanawanui ran a 4.83 in the 40.
• Quarterback Juice Williams had his first chance to work out before NFL scouts, while guard Jon Asamoah sat out pro day with a shoulder injury that has limited him since Senior Bowl practice.

MICHIGAN STATE

• Wide receiver Blair White continued a strong pre-draft performance by running the 40 in 4.46 seconds, improving on his time from the combine (4.5). He also recorded a 33.5-inch vertical leap and a broad jump of 10 feet.
• Defensive end Trevor Anderson ran a 4.66 in the 40, had a 37-inch vertical leap and a broad jump of 10 feet, 7.5 inches.
• According to The Detroit News, cornerback Jeremy Ware ran an unofficial time of 4.37 in the 40, while safety Danny Fortener, running back A.J. Jimmerson and cornerback Ross Weaver all ran better than a 4.5.

PENN STATE

• Quarterback Daryll Clark said he clocked a 4.61 in the 40-yard dash after not running at the combine because of a hamstring injury.
• Linebacker Navorro Bowman said his 40 time improved to 4.61 seconds (he had a 4.72 in Indy).
• Linebacker Josh Hull improved substantially on his poor 40 time at the combine (4.91 seconds) by clocking a 4.71 on Wednesday.
• Linebacker Sean Lee improved his 40 time from 4.74 seconds in Indianapolis to unofficially 4.55 Wednesday.
• Defensive tackle Jared Odrick said he improved on his 40 time, recording several attempts below five seconds after clocking a 5.03 at the combine. He also improved on his broad jump.
• Tight end Andrew Quarless said he ran the 40 in the 4.5 range Wednesday after recording a 4.69 in Indianapolis.
• Tackle Dennis Landolt and defensive end/linebacker Jerome Hayes both said they had 24 reps in the 225-pound bench press.
• Former Penn State quarterback Anthony Morelli worked out for scouts Wednesday as he tries to revive his pro career.

NORTHWESTERN

• Quarterback Mike Kafka continued a strong pre-draft performance on pro day, reportedly hitting on almost every throw.
• Wide receiver Andrew Brewer recorded a 4.60 in the 40, a 39-inch vertical leap, a 10-foot broad jump and a short shuttle run of 4.08 seconds.

Less than two weeks away from the start of spring ball in Madison and Ann Arbor.

• If Notre Dame and Texas are off the table, Rutgers seems to offer the most upside for the Big Ten, Teddy Greenstein writes in the Chicago Tribune.
• Expansion would be just the latest big move made by Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany during his tenure, Ed Sherman writes in Crain's Chicago Business.
• Penn State doesn't buy into the junior day craze and wouldn't mind slowing down the recruiting process, colleague Mark Schlabach writes. Nittany Lions linebackers Sean Lee and Navorro Bowman both clock 4.72's in the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, Bob Flounders writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News.
• The trial for the man accused of assaulting Ohio State linebacker Tyler Moeller is finally set, Ken Gordon writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• The thought of working with yet another offensive coordinator at Illinois pushed Arrelious Benn to the NFL, Bob LeGere writes in the Daily Herald.
• ESPN Scouts Inc.'s Todd McShay weighs in on Thaddeus Gibson, Brandon Graham and Bowman at the combine.
• New Indiana offensive line coach Mo Moriarity plans to use his connections in the local high school ranks to help the Hoosiers' recruiting efforts, Kyle Neddenriep writes in the Indianapolis Star.

Let's take a look at three issues facing each Big Ten team heading into spring practice:

ILLINOIS

Spring practice starts: March 30

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• The quarterback competition. Four-year starter Juice Williams departs, and a host of young players (and one older one) are in the mix to replace him. New offensive coordinator Paul Petrino wants to shape his system around the starting signal-caller, so he'll be looking for some separation this spring. Jacob Charest got valuable playing time behind Williams in 2009, and Eddie McGee, a part-time wide receiver, has extensive playing experience at quarterback. They'll compete with redshirt freshman Nathan Scheelhaase and true freshman Chandler Whitmer, an early enrollee.
• Fixing the defense. New defensive coordinator Vic Koenning brings an impressive résumé to Champaign, but he'll be challenged to fix a unit that hasn't been right since J Leman and Co. left following the Rose Bowl run in 2007. Koenning wants to identify leaders on defense this spring and will look to players like end Clay Nurse and linebackers Ian Thomas and Martez Wilson. Illinois' most pressing needs likely come in the secondary after the team finished 100th nationally against the pass in 2009.
• Line dance. Illinois needs to get tougher and better on both lines to turn things around in 2010. The Illini tied for eighth in the Big Ten in sacks allowed last fall, and while the run game got going late, top lineman Jon Asamoah departs. Perhaps a bigger priority is finding a pass rush on defense after finishing last in the league in both sacks and tackles for loss in 2009.

INDIANA

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Rebuilding the back seven on D. Indiana loses three starters in the secondary and two linebackers, including blog favorite Matt Mayberry. The Hoosiers brought in three junior college defenders, two of whom, linebacker Jeff Thomas and cornerback Lenyatta Kiles, will participate in spring practice. Needless to say, jobs are open everywhere, and coordinators Brian George and Joe Palcic will be looking for playmakers to step up. Several players are moving from offense to defense, including wideout Mitchell Evans to safety.
• End game. Indiana loses a lot of pass-rushing production as multiyear starters Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton depart. Both starting jobs at defensive end are open this spring, and IU will look to Darius Johnson, Terrance Thomas and others to step up and make plays.
• Willis watch. Indiana hopes 2010 is the year when running back Darius Willis becomes a superstar. Getting him through spring practice healthy will be a key first step. Willis has been impressive on the field, but he has struggled with injuries for much of his career. IU's passing attack should be very strong in 2010, and if Willis can elevate the run game, the Hoosiers should put up a ton of points.

IOWA

Spring practice starts: March 24

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• The offensive line. Rebuilding the offensive line is far and away Iowa's top priority heading into the 2010 season. The Hawkeyes are stacked at running back and boast a strong passing attack, but they'll struggle if things aren't solidified up front. Tackle/guard Riley Reiff blossomed last season and guard Julian Vandervelde also returns, but Iowa will look to fill three starting spots this spring.
• Refilling at linebacker and cornerback. Iowa's defense has been one of the nation's most opportunistic units the last two seasons, and players like Pat Angerer, A.J. Edds and Amari Spievey were three big reasons why. All three depart, so Iowa needs to reload at linebacker and find a shut-down corner (Shaun Prater?). The spotlight will be on guys like Prater, Tyler Nielsen and Jeff Tarpinian this spring.
• Sorting out the running back spot. Iowa is absolutely loaded at running back, but there's only one ball to be carried on a given play. The Hawkeyes likely will use a rotation in 2010, but who will be the featured back? Jewel Hampton will try to reclaim the top spot, which he lost because of a knee injury last summer. Adam Robinson filled in extremely well for Hampton in the lead role, and Brandon Wegher was one of the heroes of the Orange Bowl win.

MICHIGAN

Spring practice starts: March 14

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Defense, defense, defense. Head coach Rich Rodriguez always will be known for his spread offense, but he won't be around much longer at Michigan if the defense doesn't significantly improve. A unit that ranked 82nd nationally last season loses its two best players (Brandon Graham and Donovan Warren) and must find contributors at linebacker, safety and cornerback. Help is on the way from the 2010 recruiting class, but Michigan can't afford a bad spring on defense.
• Devin Gardner. The heralded quarterback recruit enrolled early and will enter the mix this spring. Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson are the front-runners at quarterback, but Gardner might be the ultimate answer for the Wolverines. His ability to pick up the system and push Forcier and Robinson this spring will determine whether he sees the field in the fall or takes a redshirt.
• Running back. Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor depart, but Michigan once again should be good at the running back spot. Vincent Smith will miss spring ball as he recovers from knee surgery, but several others, including Michael Shaw and Fitzgerald Toussaint, will be competing throughout the 15 workouts. Shaw, who scored two touchdowns on 42 carries in 2009, could create a bit of separation with a good spring.

MICHIGAN STATE

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Team morale. The residence hall incident and the subsequent fallout really rocked the Michigan State program. Head coach Mark Dantonio has yet to address the status of several suspended players, and the final outcome could impact the depth chart, particularly at wide receiver. It's important for Michigan State's team leaders -- Greg Jones, Kirk Cousins and others -- to unite the locker room in the spring and do all they can to prevent further problems.
• Line dance. Michigan State needs to improve on both the offensive and defensive lines in 2010, and it all starts this spring. The Spartans must replace left tackle Rocco Cironi and center Joel Nitchman, and they also lose top pass-rusher Trevor Anderson at defensive end. As strong as the Spartans should be at the skill positions, they need to start building around linemen like Joel Foreman and Jerel Worthy.
• Keith Nichol. The versatile junior could be moved to wide receiver, but he'll get a chance to push Cousins at quarterback this spring. Nichol's skills are too valuable to waste on the sideline, particularly if Michigan State has a pressing need at receiver, but he still could be a factor at quarterback if his improves his accuracy. The speedy Nichol could run the Wildcat in addition to serving as a wide receiver, if MSU chooses to go that route.

MINNESOTA

Spring practice starts: March 23

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• The coordinator and the quarterbacks. Minnesota will welcome its third offensive coordinator in as many seasons, though Jeff Horton doesn't plan to overhaul the system like Jedd Fisch did a year ago. Horton's primary task will be developing quarterbacks Adam Weber and MarQueis Gray, who both struggled last fall in the pro-style system. Weber has the edge in experience, but he needs to regain the form his showed in his first two seasons as the starter. Gray brings tremendous athleticism to the table but must prove he can succeed in a pro-style offense.
• The offensive line. Head coach Tim Brewster has insisted that when Minnesota gets the offensive line on track, things really will get rolling. The Gophers need better players and arguably tougher players up front, and the line should benefit in Year 2 under assistant Tim Davis. The group should be motivated by finishing last in the Big Ten in rushing in each of the past two seasons.
• Young defenders. Minnesota loses most of its starting defense from 2009, but fans are more excited about the young talent returning on that side of the ball. Spring ball could be huge for players like Michael Carter, D.L. Wilhite and Keanon Cooper as they transition into leading roles. The Gophers' biggest losses come at linebacker, as all three starters depart.

NORTHWESTERN

Spring practice starts: March 29

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Identify a running back. The Wildcats produced an impressive string of standout running backs under former coach Randy Walker and at the beginning of Pat Fitzgerald’s tenure, but they struggled in the backfield in 2009. Northwestern returns the Big Ten’s most experienced offensive line, so identifying a primary ball carrier or two this spring is vital. Arby Fields and Scott Concannon showed a few flashes last year but must get more consistent, while Mike Trumpy will be an interesting addition to the mix.
• Polishing Persa. Dan Persa steps in at quarterback for second-team All-Big Ten selection Mike Kafka, and he’ll try to walk a similar career path. Kafka transformed himself in the offseason a year ago to become an extremely consistent passer, and Persa will need to do the same. Persa could be the best running quarterback Northwestern has had since Zak Kustok, but his size and the nature of the offense suggests he’ll need to make strides with his arm. NU also needs to see progress from backup Evan Watkins, as it lacks overall depth at quarterback.
• Reload in the secondary. Northwestern loses three starters in the secondary, including all-conference selections Sherrick McManis and Brad Phillips. Fitzgerald will lean heavily on cornerback Jordan Mabin and safety Brian Peters to lead the group, but he needs a few more players to emerge this spring. Defensive backs like Justan Vaughn have experience and must transition into featured roles.

OHIO STATE

Spring practice starts: April 1

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Running back competition resumes. Brandon Saine and Dan Herron finished strong in 2009, but they can’t get too comfortable. Several young running backs, including Jordan Hall, Jaamal Berry, Jermil Martin and Carlos Hyde, will be competing for carries this spring. Saine likely has the best chance to lock down a featured role at running back, but if the hype about Berry pans out, it’ll be a dogfight.
• Pryor’s evolution. After Ohio State’s victory in the Rose Bowl, both Terrelle Pryor and Jim Tressel talked about the game being a key juncture in Pryor’s development. The junior quarterback must build on his performance this spring, especially from a passing standpoint. Ohio State can be a more balanced and more effective offense in 2010, but Pryor needs to keep making strides.
• Safety squeeze. The Buckeyes didn’t lose much from the 2009 team, but the safety spot took a hit as first-team All-Big Ten selection Kurt Coleman as well as key contributor Anderson Russell depart. Jermale Hines looks like the answer at one spot, and he’ll enter the spring with high expectations. Ohio State needs to build around Hines and identify playmakers for an increasingly opportunistic unit.

PENN STATE

Spring practice starts: March 26

Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

• Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback. No surprise here, as Penn State’s quarterback competition will be one of the Big Ten’s top storylines until September. Two-year starter Daryll Clark departs, leaving a major void under center. Sophomore Kevin Newsome played a bit last fall and has been in the system for a full season. He’ll enter the spring with a slight edge, but Matt McGloin and early enrollee Paul Jones also will be in the mix before Robert Bolden arrives this summer.
• Getting better up front. All-America candidate Stefen Wisniewski leads an offensive line that will have more experience and needs to make strides this spring. The line struggled against elite defensive fronts last year (Iowa, Ohio State) but should have more cohesion after another offseason together. The tackle spots will be interesting to watch, as Dennis Landolt departs. Penn State’s defensive line needs to shore up the middle after losing Big Ten co-Defensive Player of the Year Jared Odrick.
• Linebacker U. put to the test. Penn State has a proven track record of reloading in the defensive front seven, but it loses a lot of production, especially at linebacker. All three starting spots are open this spring, and the spotlight will turn to players like Nate Stupar, Bani Gbadyu, Chris Colasanti and others to fill the production and leadership gaps left by Sean Lee, Navorro Bowman and Josh Hull.

PURDUE

Spring practice starts: March 24

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• Marve watch begins. The starting quarterback job is open, and all eyes will be on Miami transfer Robert Marve. One of the nation's most decorated recruits in 2007, Marve started for the Hurricanes in 2008 but ran into problems and transferred. Slowed by an ACL injury last summer and fall, Marve will have every chance to establish himself this spring as he competes with Caleb TerBush.
• Wide-open secondary. All four starters depart in the secondary, creating plenty of competition back there this spring. Players like safety Albert Evans and cornerback Charlton Williams will be in the spotlight as they try to nail down jobs. Purdue should be better in the front seven in 2010, but you can bet opposing quarterbacks will attack an unproven secondary.
• The run defense. It's a huge priority for Purdue to improve against the run after finishing last in the Big Ten in rush defense in each of the past two seasons. Linebacker Jason Werner's return for a sixth year is huge, and Purdue boasts one of the Big Ten's top D-linemen in Ryan Kerrigan. Those two must provide leadership and foster more cohesion from the younger players around them. New D-line coach Gary Emanuel will be instrumental in the process this spring.

WISCONSIN

Spring practice starts: March 13 (break from March 29-April 2)

Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

• The secondary. Wisconsin looks pretty solid on the defensive line and at linebacker, so getting the secondary up to par will be key this spring. Safety Jay Valai is a vicious hitter, but can he become an All-Big Ten-caliber safety? Aaron Henry joins Valai at safety after struggling at cornerback in 2009. Wisconsin also will look for continued progress from corners Devin Smith and Niles Brinkley.
• Replacing Schofield. Bret Bielema told me earlier this week that the competition at defensive line is once again heating up this offseason. Wisconsin must replace first-team All-Big Ten end O'Brien Schofield, who ranked second nationally in tackles for loss (24.5) in 2009. J.J. Watt has superstar written all over him, but Wisconsin will look for more pass-rush ability from David Gilbert and Louis Nzegwu.
• The wide receivers/tight ends. Wisconsin showed at times last fall that its passing attack could be dynamic, and it will look for big things from several players this spring. Wideout Nick Toon certainly has what it takes to be a star in the Big Ten, and Lance Kendricks showed in the Champs Sports Bowl that he's a capable successor for Garrett Graham at tight end. The Badgers will look to David Gilreath, Isaac Anderson and Kyle Jefferson to fill the No. 2 wideout spot.

The Big Ten postseason player rankings, based on past performance and future potential, continue with ...

No. 12

Sean Lee, LB, Penn State, Sr., 6-2, 236

Preseason rank: 7

Why he's here: Lee once again showed that when healthy, he's one of the best linebackers in the country. Although he appeared in only 10 games and missed Penn State's loss to Iowa, Lee finished third on the team in total tackles (86) and tied for third in tackles for loss (11). He also recorded an interception, a fumble recovery and eight passes defended, tops among linebackers and second on the squad. His leadership and on-field savvy helped Penn State win 11 games and rank eighth nationally in both total defense and scoring defense.

It's a bit tricky to assess Lee's future in the NFL. His injury history could deter some teams, but his overall body of work at Penn State is extremely impressive. Lee is an extremely sound tackler who knows the game and displays great fundamentals. Most projections have Lee in the second or third round, though his performance this week at the NFL scouting combine will be big.

The rundown

• No. 30: Michigan State WR Blair White
• No. 29: Northwestern DE Corey Wootton
• No. 28: Wisconsin TE Garrett Graham
• No. 27: Ohio State LG Justin Boren
• No. 26: Iowa S Tyler Sash
• No. 25: Northwestern QB Mike Kafka
• No. 24: Penn State C Stefen Wisniewski
• No. 23: Michigan CB Donovan Warren
• No. 22: Northwestern CB Sherrick McManis
• No. 21: Ohio State DE Thaddeus Gibson
• No. 20: Indiana DE Jammie Kirlew
• No. 19: Iowa LB Pat Angerer
• No. 18: Wisconsin DE O'Brien Schofield
• No. 17: Illinois WR Arrelious Benn
• No. 16: Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan
• No. 15: Penn State RB Evan Royster
• No. 14: Iowa CB Amari Spievey
• No. 13: Ohio State QB Terrelle Pryor

The official list of invitees to the NFL scouting combine is out, and the Big Ten will send 41 former players to Indianapolis later this month. The combine takes place Feb. 24-March 2, and all 11 Big Ten schools will be represented. Iowa leads the way with seven invitees, followed Penn State with six invitees and four teams (Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio State) each with four invitees.

You've already seen an early list, which didn't include underclassmen and some seniors who were named later.

Here's the full roster of Big Ten participants, sorted by team:

ILLINOIS: G Jon Asamoah, WR Arrelious Benn, TE Michael Hoomanawanui

INDIANA: DE Jammie Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, S Nick Polk, OT Rodger Saffold

IOWA: LB Pat Angerer, OT Bryan Bulaga, OT Kyle Calloway, LB A.J. Edds, TE Tony Moeaki, G Dace Richardson, CB Amari Spievey

MICHIGAN: DE Brandon Graham, P Zoltan Mesko, RB Brandon Minor, CB Donovan Warren

MICHIGAN STATE: K Brett Swenson, WR Blair White

MINNESOTA: LB Lee Campbell, WR Eric Decker, LB Simoni Lawrence, LB Nate Triplett

NORTHWESTERN: QB Mike Kafka, CB Sherrick McManis, DE Corey Wootton

OHIO STATE: S Kurt Coleman, DE Thaddeus Gibson, K Aaron Pettrey, DT Doug Worthington

PENN STATE: LB Navorro Bowman, QB Daryll Clark, LB Josh Hull, LB Sean Lee, DT Jared Odrick, TE Andrew Quarless

PURDUE: DT Mike Neal, CB David Pender

WISCONSIN: TE Garrett Graham, LB O'Brien Schofield (injured)