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We're doubling up on fresh faces today as camps open around the league. This series looks at freshmen, redshirt freshmen, transfers or returnees ready to move into much bigger roles this season for each unit on a team.

Let's examine Penn State:

Offense: John Urschel, OG, Soph., 6-3, 284

Urschel emerged as the starting right guard after spring practice and will try to hold onto that this fall while battling DeOn'tae Pannell. Urschel made one start as a redshirt freshman against Indiana. Penn State hopes he can replace Stefen Wisniewski and be part of a more dominant offensive line. As a side note, Urschel is an outstanding student just like Wisniewski. The math major has a 4.0 GPA.

Defense: Kyle Baublitz, DE, Fr., 6-5, 261


Baublitz showed his potential by registering two sacks in the Blue-White spring game. A redshirt freshman who enrolled in January 2010, he could provide depth to a position that is looking for more top-flight contributors. Penn State has seniors Eric Latimore and Jack Crawford at the end spots, but both have had health issues. The Nittany Lions need to develop a more productive pass rush, and Baublitz could push for playing time with a big fall camp.

Special teams: Sam Ficken, K, Fr.

The Nittany Lions need to find a replacement for the departed Collin Wagner at place-kicker. Perhaps Ficken could be that guy. After all, Penn State gave him a scholarship in the 2011 class, which is rare for kickers. Ficken booted a 52-yarder in high school, but he'll have to beat out Anthony Fera and David Soldner this fall.

My apologies for posting these a day late -- blame it on Russell Wilson -- but it's time to break down the Big Ten offensive linemen entering the 2011 season.

Rather than list the top 10 across the three position groups, I've decided to go a different route: top five players at each spot. Despite losing standout linemen like Wisconsin's Gabe Carimi and John Moffitt, and Penn State's Stefen Wisniewski, the Big Ten returns several of the nation's top players at their positions.

Center might be the Big Ten's deepest position, while the league also boasts several standout tackles. The guard spot is a bit thin.

Let's take a look.

CENTER

1. Michael Brewster, Ohio State, senior -- Brewster enters the season as the leading candidate for the Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation's top center. He has started each of the past three seasons and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the media in 2010. Boasting 36 career starts, Brewster could be the top center selected in next April's NFL draft.

2. David Molk, Michigan, senior -- Molk is right up there with Brewster among the nation's truly elite centers. If not for some injury trouble, he could be at the top of the list. He earned first-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches in 2010 and was a finalist for the Rimington Trophy. Molk has made 29 career starts and displays top-notch blocking skills and leadership.

3. Peter Konz, Wisconsin, junior -- Konz is a big reason why Wisconsin's line shouldn't take a step back despite losing Carimi, Moffitt and Bill Nagy. He has made 20 starts at center in the past two seasons and earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in 2010. After missing most of spring practice with an ankle injury, Konz's health this fall is a big key for Wisconsin.

4. Mike Caputo, Nebraska, senior: The Huskers' line has a few question marks entering the season, but center isn't one of them. Caputo is the undisputed leader of the group after starting every game in 2010. The former walk-on earned consensus honorable mention All-Big 12 honors and helped Nebraska eclipse 200 rushing yards in 10 of 14 games.

T-5. James Ferentz, Iowa, junior: Ferentz has emerged as an All-Big Ten caliber lineman and will lead one of the league's better groups this season. He started every game in 2010 and showed impressive durability, playing every offensive down in nine contests. Iowa needs an elite offensive line this season, and Ferentz will be leading the charge.

T-5. Graham Pocic, Illinois, junior: Along with Jeff Allen and others, Pocic leads an Illinois line that punished opponents at times last season. He earned consensus honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in his first year as a starter. Pocic solidified a line that helped Illinois lead the Big Ten in rushing and rank 11th nationally (246.1 ypg).

TACKLE

1. Riley Reiff, Iowa, junior: Reiff has put himself in position to become the next truly great Hawkeyes offensive lineman. He started every game in 2010 and 11 of 13 contests in 2009, earning consensus second-team All-Big Ten honors last fall. Already projected as a potential top-15 pick in the 2012 NFL draft, Reiff should be in the mix for the Outland Trophy as he anchors the Iowa line.

2. Mike Adams, Ohio State, senior: The Buckeyes will be counting the days until Adams returns from his suspension to open the season. After some ups and downs early in his career, Adams blossomed last season and started to meet the lofty expectations placed on him coming out of high school. He earned consensus first-team All-Big Ten honors. If not for the five-game suspension, he would be a top contender for the Outland Trophy.

3. Jeff Allen, Illinois, senior: One of the league's best and most experienced offensive linemen, Allen will lead a strong Illini line this fall. He has started 34 games in his first three seasons at Illinois, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors from the media last fall. Allen is a bona fide NFL prospect who should challenge players like Brewster, Molk and Reiff for Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honors.

4. Al Netter, Northwestern, senior: Besides star quarterback Dan Persa, Netter is the only player coach Pat Fitzgerald considers an undisputed starter entering the fall. Perhaps it's because Netter has started each of the past 39 games. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in 2010 and should be primed for a big senior season. Northwestern needs him to help spark its rushing attack.

5. Ricky Wagner, Wisconsin, junior: We'll get a full read on Wagner after he switches from right tackle to the left side to replace Carimi, but the expectations are high. He earned consensus honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in 2010 after stepping in for the injured Josh Oglesby at right tackle. Wisconsin really likes Wagner's potential, and he'll have a chance to blossom at the more prestigious tackle position.

GUARD

1. Joel Foreman, Michigan State, senior: An easy pick here as Foreman enters the season as one of the nation's top left guards. He has earned consensus honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in each of the past two seasons and started 36 games at left guard, including each of the past 22. Offensive line is a huge question mark for the Spartans, so Foreman's play will be huge.

2. Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin, senior: Zeitler will be a leader this fall for a Wisconsin line looking to continue its tradition of excellence. He has started 22 games at right guard in each of the past two seasons and helped Wisconsin rank among the nation's top rushing offenses. Zeitler earned consensus honorable mention All-Big Ten honors in 2010.

3. Hugh Thornton, Illinois, junior: Thornton has played a lot of football in his first two seasons and could take another step in his development this fall. He started eight games at weak-side guard in 2010 after starting seven games at tackle in 2009. Illinois expects the offensive line to be its strength, and Thornton is a big part of the group.

4. Ken Plue, Purdue, senior: This pick is a bit risky after Plue worked his way into the coaches' dog house in spring practice. But he has the size, the skills and the experience (28 starts) to become one of the Big Ten's top guards this fall. If the 6-7, 358-pound Plue can work out his issues, look out for him and the Boilers.

5. Patrick Omameh, Michigan, junior: After starting all 13 games for a record-setting offense in 2010, Omameh is a reason why hopes are high for the Wolverines offensive line. He has started 16 consecutive games and has the ability to contend for All-Big honors. Omameh must get a little more consistent this fall, but I like how he projects for 2011.

The preseason position rankings march on with the offensive lines. Team rankings are below, and we'll take a look at the individual rankings for tackles, centers and guards early next week.

Looking at the league landscape, offensive line could be a major strength throughout the Big Ten this season. Although standout players such as Outland Trophy winner Gabe Carimi and All-American Stefen Wisniewski depart, I see improved depth for several teams as well as quite a few multiyear starters.

Honestly, there aren't any bad lines in the league; just some with more question marks than others.

Let's get to the rundown.

1. Wisconsin: Talk about an ability to reload. The Badgers lose All-Americans Carimi and John Moffitt, plus the versatile Bill Nagy, and they still shouldn't take any steps backward. Injuries have allowed Wisconsin to build depth the past few seasons, and four of the five spots look extremely solid. Tackle Ricky Wagner, center Peter Konz and guard Kevin Zeitler lead a group that will block for the league's top running back tandem. Wisconsin's track record up front is impossible to ignore, and this year's line should continue the trend.

2. Iowa: The line is undoubtedly Iowa's biggest strength and should be one of the nation's elite units in 2011. Iowa returns starting experience at all five positions and should have decent depth. Left tackle Riley Reiff, projected as a first-round pick in the 2012 NFL draft, will enter the fall as a leading candidate for the Outland Trophy. James Ferentz is one of the league's top centers, and Markus Zusevics is poised for a big year at right tackle.

3. Ohio State: Depth is the only reason the Buckeyes' line isn't higher in the rankings. Ohio State boasts arguably the nation's top center in Mike Brewster, and first-team All-Big Ten tackle Mike Adams will be back after a five-game suspension to begin the season. The Buckeyes need big things from tackle Andrew Norwell during Adams' absence, and tackle J.B. Shugarts must play like a veteran. After struggling to put two sets of capable linemen on the field this spring, Ohio State has to find more depth in preseason camp.

4. Michigan: This is another group that could climb up the rankings by season's end. Center David Molk is a terrific piece to build around, and if gifted players like Taylor Lewan and Patrick Omameh continue to develop, Michigan's line will be a major strength. The concerns are Molk's ability to stay healthy and an adjustment to a new offensive system under Al Borges. The line did an excellent job of protecting Denard Robinson in 2010, allowing a league-low 11 sacks.

5. Illinois: The Illini flat-out punished opponents at the line of scrimmage on several occasions last season, and I really like the potential for the front five in 2011. The biggest reason? Left tackle Jeff Allen, one of the Big Ten's most experienced linemen. Allen and center Graham Pocic will contend for All-Big Ten honors, and if Corey Lewis gets healthy, this should be one of the league's top offensive lines.

6. Purdue: Expectations are high for a line that coach Danny Hope thinks will be Purdue's strength in 2011. Left tackle Dennis Kelly is an All-Big Ten candidate with NFL potential who has started the past 24 games. Center Peters Drey and tackle Nick Mondek help anchor the group. The big question is whether mammoth guard Ken Plue, a multiyear starter, can get out of Hope's doghouse to help lead the way. Plue will be pushed by James Shepherd this summer. The combination of experience up front and the return of running back Ralph Bolden bode well for the Boilers.

7. Northwestern: The Wildcats boast the nation's second most experienced line (137 combined career starts), but experience must start translating to production. This group still must prove it can spark a decent rushing attack after several years of decline. Left tackle Al Netter is an All-Big Ten candidate and center Ben Burkett enters his fourth season as the starter. If Northwestern gets more consistent play from right tackle Patrick Ward and others, it should be a solid group.

8. Penn State: This is a big year for Penn State's O-line, which has heard the criticism and has vowed to erase it in 2011. The tackle spots look solid with Quinn Barham and Chima Okoli, but Penn State needs to shore up the interior after losing Wisniewski, a mainstay for the past four seasons. If veterans like Johnnie Troutman and DeOn'tae Pannell step up and turn in consistent performances, the line should hold up nicely.

9. Nebraska: The Huskers ranked ninth nationally in rushing last season but have quite a few question marks up front. Center Mike Caputo is a building block and sophomore tackle Jeremiah Sirles is a returning starter, but Nebraska has little proven experience. The Huskers will benefit from a healthy Marcel Jones at right tackle, and Yoshi Hardwick adds depth. This could turn out to be a decent group, but the experience issue combined with a scheme change creates some uncertainty.

10. Michigan State: Not to put too much pressure on the line, but arguably no position group will have more influence on Michigan State's season. The Spartans must replace both starting tackles and their starting center, never an easy task. All-Big Ten guard Joel Foreman returns to lead the group, but Michigan State needs immediate contributions from unproven players. The coaches feel they've upgraded the athleticism up front by moving players like Dan France and Blake Treadwell over from the defensive side.

11. Minnesota: The Gophers boast a mix of veterans and youth, and it'll be interesting to see whether the group comes together this fall. Hopes are high for young tackles Eric Olson and Jimmy Gjere, but they'll need help from seniors like Ryan Wynn and Chris Bunders on the interior. Minnesota needs to regain its swagger as an elite rushing offense, and it starts up front this fall. This is a group that certainly has a chance to make strides.

12. Indiana: I like some of Indiana's individual pieces, but as a group, the Hoosiers must show they can create space for the running backs. Indiana switched to the pistol offense in hopes of sparking the ground game but produced barely 100 rushing yards a game in 2010 (112th nationally). The line allowed only 12 sacks and must continue to protect its unproven quarterbacks this fall, but getting the run game going is paramount. Returning starters Will Matte, Justin Pagan and Andrew McDonald give Indiana hope.

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

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

They are:

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

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

Congrats to all the winners.

What a Sunday night in America, and Big Ten students were part of the celebration here and here.

• Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins ends the spring with a big performance, Matt Charboneau writes in The Detroit News. Spartans basketball player Draymond Green logs a few reps in the spring game, George Sipple writes in the Detroit Free Press. More Michigan State spring game coverage here and here.
• A new billboard in Michigan taunts embattled Ohio State coach Jim Tressel.
• Iowa has six players selected in the NFL draft for the second consecutive year, Andy Hamilton writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen.
• Wisconsin AD Barry Alvarez says the Big Ten opposed a new NCAA credit requirement rule, Jeff Potrykus writes in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Offensive lineman Bill Nagy rounds out a strong crop of Wisconsin's draftees, and barely avoids becoming Mr. Irrelevant, Tom Mulhern writes in the Wisconsin State Journal.
• The bonds between Ohio State and Jim Tressel make a clean break impossible, Doug Lesmerises writes in The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Tressel and Woody Hayes are now united by success and scandal, Bill Livingston writes in the Plain Dealer. The wait ended this weekend for four Ohio State draft hopefuls, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Nebraska's new NFL draftees can learn from the case of former Husker Trev Alberts, Steven M. Sipple writes in the Lincoln Journal Star. Take a closer look at coach Bo Pelini's revised contract.
• A long day had a happy ending for Michigan offensive lineman Stephen Schilling, annarbor.com's Michael Rothstein writes. Michigan's 2012 recruiting class now features eight verbal commits. More thoughts on the late Jim Mandich from John U. Bacon.
• The Saints looked to Illinois for two of their draft picks, ESPNChicago.com's Scott Powers writes.
• Penn State's Stefen Wisniewski should feel right at home in Oakland, Jeff Rice writes in the Centre Daily Times. Nittany Lines takes a look at a lean draft for Penn State.
• Two Indiana players hear their names called in the fourth round of the draft. Quarterback Ben Chappell is among the IU players still waiting for an NFL opportunity, Dustin Dopirak writes.
• Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan makes a good first impression with the Redskins, The Associated Press' Joseph White writes.
• A spring snapshot of Minnesota from The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette's Scott Dochterman.

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

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

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

First round

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

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

Second round

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

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

Third round

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

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

Fourth round

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

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

Fifth round

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

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

Sixth round

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

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

Seventh round

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

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

NEBRASKA'S DRAFTEES

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

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

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

Big Ten picks by team

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

By position (excluding Nebraska)

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

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

Draft snubs

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

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

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

It feels a bit drafty in here.

• Wisconsin produces two first-round draft picks for the first time since 2000, Tom Mulhern writes in the Wisconsin State Journal. Read what J.J. Watt had to say about being drafted, while ESPNChicago.com's Michael C. Wright writes it's time for Gabe Carimi to back up his big talk.
• The Redskins made a wise choice by drafting Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan, colleague Jeffri Chadiha writes. Kerrigan will "never forget that moment" when the Redskins called him, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier.
• Illinois' Corey Liuget talks about his new home on the West Coast, ESPNChicago.com's Scott Powers writes. Colleague Bill Williamson likes the value Liuget brings to the Chargers.
• The Giants had an easy choice to select Nebraska's Prince Amukamara, Rich Kaipust writes in the Omaha World-Herald. Colleague Todd McShay breaks down the Nebraska star.
• Ohio State's Cameron Heyward is headed back to the town where he was born.
• Adrian Clayborn had a "close-but-no-cigar reel" as a senior at Iowa, but Tampa Bay still liked what it saw on tape, Andy Hamilton writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Colleague Pat Yasinskas writes the Bucs made a safe choice with Clayborn.
• Michigan State linebacker Max Bullough prepares to handle adversity, Matt Charboneau writes in The Detroit News. Spartans cornerback Johnny Adams has stood out this spring, Shawn Windsor writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Penn State fans will like this T-shirt; Ohio State fans not so much. Nittany Lions offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski could hear his name called tonight, Bob Flounders writes in The (Harrisburg) Patriot-News.
• Ohio State should punish coach Jim Tressel by not firing him, William C. Rhoden writes in The New York Times. Some Ohio State football thoughts from The Columbus Dispatch's Bob Hunter.
• Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany weighs in on the turbulent times in college football, SI.com's Stewart Mandel writes.
• Missed this from earlier this week, but Michigan will expand its student section by 1,000 seats.
• A good breakdown of Minnesota's running backs from Fringe Bowl Team. Top offensive line prospect Jonah Pirsig is considering the Gophers, Marcus Fuller writes in the (St. Paul) Pioneer Press.
• Two Indiana players wait to learn their draft fate, Dustin Dopirak writes in The (Bloomington) Herald-Times (subscription required).
• Same goes for two Northwestern players, Jonah Rosenblum writes in The Daily Northwestern.

As the Big Ten world turns ...

• Michigan State players will receive their Big Ten championship rings after the spring game, Greg Johnson writes in The Grand Rapids Press. Spartans linebacker Max Bullough says he has learned from his mistake, Joe Rexrode writes in the Lansing State Journal. Quarterback Kirk Cousins hits on several interesting topics in a Q&A with The Detroit News' Matt Charboneau.
• Minnesota's MarQueis Gray didn't have the best spring game, but neither did many top Big Ten quarterbacks, Marcus Fuller writes in the (St. Paul) Pioneer Press.
• Colleague Urban Meyer is a T-Magic fan and likes Nebraska in this year's Big Ten race, Sam McKewon writes in the Omaha World-Herald. Nebraska students are stepping up their game as the Big Ten move approaches, Brian Christopherson writes in the Lincoln Journal Star.
• Ohio State might have caught a break with the Notice of Allegations, CBSsports.com's Dennis Dodd writes. Some good news for the Buckeyes as they add to their 2012 recruiting class, Tim May writes in The Columbus Dispatch. The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Terry Pluto writes The Vest should stay, but only if he truly apologizes.
• Purdue might be best known for producing NFL quarterbacks, but the Boilers also have churned out quite a few stud defensive linemen, Adrian Alderete writes in the Purdue Exponent.
• This year's NFL draft could be the best ever for Illinois, Bob Asmussen writes in The (Champaign) News-Gazette. Illinois running back Jason Ford isn't helping himself at a critical time, Mark Tupper writes in the (Decatur) Herald & Review.
• Michigan AD Dave Brandon shares his thoughts on the late Jim Mandich.
• Who says a former Penn State long snapper can't become a YouTube star? Lions offensive lineman Stefen Wisniewski is ready for the NFL call, Jerry DiPaola writes in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
• The future of Iowa receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos remains unclear, Andy Hamilton writes in the Iowa City Press-Citizen. Hawkeyes draft hopeful Christian Ballard reportedly tests positive for marijuana use.
• Despite a productive career at Wisconsin, John Clay's NFL draft prospects are a bit hazy, Jim Polzin writes in The Capital Times. New Badgers linebackers coach Dave Huxtable played a key role in landing the team's latest recruit, Mark Massoglia writes in the Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune.

Since many of you have asked, I won't be attending any spring games this weekend (or next, for that matter). It's a little tough to explain to non-media folks, but I get a lot more out of visiting campuses midweek than for spring games, when things are chaotic. The good news: I'll recap every spring game Monday.

Now it's time to preview the six Big Ten spring games on tap Saturday (in reverse alphabetical order) ...

PENN STATE

The vitals: Blue-White Game presented by AAA kicks off at 2 p.m. ET Saturday at Beaver Stadium; admission and parking are free

More details: Penn State has a pregame autograph session and a ton of events planned for the weekend. All the information can be found here.

Three things to watch

1. The quarterbacks: The race for the starting job has been the top story at Penn State this spring, and all four candidates will be on the field Saturday. Most eyes will be on sophomore Rob Bolden and junior Matt McGloin, who split the starts in 2010 and have paced one another throughout the spring. Both players have impressed the coaches, who likely won't name a starter until the summer. Saturday marks the final chance for Bolden and McGloin to showcase their abilities for the coaches and fans before spring ball concludes.

2. Line play: Penn State has to upgrade both lines if it wants to contend in the Leaders division this season. The Lions have very little depth at defensive end because of injuries, but fans should keep an eye on defensive tackles Devon Still, Jordan Hill and Brandon Ware, all of whom have drawn praise from the coaches this spring. Penn State needs a big year from its interior linemen. The offensive line boasts four seniors and should be solid at the tackle spots, but it'll be interesting to see how the guards and centers perform as Penn State must replace standout Stefen Wisniewski.

3. Running backs: Injuries will keep several Penn State playmakers on the sideline Saturday, but fans should get a clear read on the running backs. There's a lot of hype for Silas Redd after a solid freshman season, but he's being pushed by Stephfon Green and Brandon Beachum, who has stood out this spring after missing all of last season with a torn ACL. Green and Redd both have breakaway ability, while Beachum could be the power back Penn State has missed in recent years.

NORTHWESTERN

The vitals: The spring football "exhibition," which will be more of a situational scrimmage, kicks off at noon CT (1 p.m. ET) at Ryan Field; admission and parking are free but fans are encouraged to bring nonperishable canned-food items for a food drive.

More details: Northwestern is holding a youth football clinic and several other events. All the info can be found here.

Three things to watch

1. The race for backup QB: All-Big Ten selection Dan Persa is on track to return by late May or early June, but he won't be taking any snaps Saturday. Northwestern will divide the reps evenly between three signal-callers -- sophomore Kain Colter, junior Evan Watkins and redshirt freshman Trevor Siemian -- vying to play behind Persa this season. Colter is the most intriguing candidate after a breakout performance against Texas Tech in the TicketCity Bowl, but all three players have endured some ups and downs this spring.

2. New faces on defense: The coaches feel they've upgraded the athleticism on defense with recent recruiting, especially at spots like linebacker and defensive back. Northwestern's defense looked slow and overmatched at times last season, and quite a few jobs are open this spring. Keep an eye on players such as linebackers David Nwabuisi and Damian Proby and redshirt freshman safety Ibraheim Campbell, a player coach Pat Fitzgerald has praised multiple times this spring.

3. The running backs: Persa carried the run game in 2010 but admits he took too many shots and will try to limit the damage this fall. He could use more help from a run game that has suffered since Tyrell Sutton graduated. Mike Trumpy provided a spark late last year and has had a good spring, and Adonis Smith has a year under his belt. Keep an eye on Tyris Jones, a physical runner who has stepped up this spring as a running back/H-back.

(Read full post)

There's little doubt that the first Big Ten player drafted in April will be a defensive lineman.

(Not including Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara, who played his entire career in the Big 12.)

Who will hear his name called first? Wisconsin's J.J. Watt? Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan? Illinois' Corey Liuget? Iowa's Adrian Clayborn? Ohio State's Cameron Heyward?

I'll have more on the hopefuls as we get closer to draft night, but colleagues Todd McShay and Mel Kiper are always dissecting the draft and have come out with their latest three-round mock selections.

Here's McShay's mock draft and where the Big Ten players fall:

First round

• Illinois DT Corey Liuget, No. 14 overall to St. Louis
• Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan, No. 16 overall to Jacksonville
• Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt, No. 17 overall to New England
• Wisconsin T Gabe Carimi, No. 21 overall to Kansas City
• Iowa DE Adrian Clayborn, No. 24 overall to New Orleans
• Ohio State DE Cameron Heyward, No. 32 overall to Green Bay

Second round

• Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure, No. 45 overall to San Francisco
• Iowa DL Christian Ballard, No. 53 overall to Indianapolis
• Illinois LB Martez Wilson, No. 54 overall to Philadelphia

Third round

• Wisconsin TE Lance Kendricks, No. 68 overall to Buffalo
• Indiana WR Tandon Doss, No. 86 overall to Kansas City
• Wisconsin G John Moffitt, No. 87 overall to Indianapolis
• Indiana T James Brewer, No. 90 overall to Buffalo

Here's a look at Kiper's mock draft and where the Big Ten prospects fall:

First round

• Watt, No. 10 overall to Washington
• Liuget, No. 14 overall to St. Louis
• Kerrigan, No. 20 overall to Tampa Bay
• Carimi, No. 23 overall to Philadelphia
• Clayborn, No. 27 overall to Atlanta
• Heyward, No. 30 overall to New York Jets

Second round

• Wilson, No. 34 overall to Buffalo
• Leshoure, No. 53 overall to Indianapolis
• Doss, No. 64 overall to Green Bay

Third round

• Ballard, No. 67 overall to Denver
• Kendricks, No. 68 overall to Buffalo
• Moffitt, No. 77 overall to Tennessee
• Ohio State CB Chimdi Chekwa, No. 81 overall to Oakland
• Ohio State LB Ross Homan, No. 85 overall to Philadelphia
• Penn State G Stefen Wisniewski, No. 93 to Chicago

Some interesting stuff here. Both McShay and Kiper think the Colts' Big Ten pipeline will continue, and both also like Buffalo to draft Big Ten players. Kiper includes three players McShay leaves out -- Chekwa, Homan and Wisniewski -- while McShay includes one player (Brewer) who Kiper leaves out. It also stands out how teams like Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Wisconsin have more high-level draft prospects this year than Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Nebraska.

Amukamara is the only Nebraska player included in both mock drafts. Both McShay and Kiper have Amukamara going 13th overall to Detroit, where he'll reunite with former Huskers' teammate Ndamukong Suh.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Joe Paterno didn't hide his concern about Penn State's offensive line when addressing reporters last week.

"We don't have any depth there," the coach said. "We don't have a good, solid first-string offensive line yet. That's our first job."

It's hardly a revelation that the Big Ten's best teams are strong along the offensive line. Wisconsin and Iowa have elevated their programs largely because of their line play. Michigan State will become a perennial league title contender when it churns out great lines year after year.

Not surprisingly, Penn State's best teams in recent years have been superb on the offensive front, but last year's line endured inconsistent play. Although the Lions allowed only 12 sacks -- tied with Michigan for 10th fewest nationally -- they couldn't get the run game going until the second half of the season. Penn State finished ninth in the league and 74th nationally in rushing, its lowest finish since 2004 (81st nationally).

"For all the [talk about] the offensive line being such a big question mark, we didn't give up that many sacks, we were able to get [Evan] Royster the rushing record, so there were definitely some bright spots," right tackle Chima Okoli said. "Myself included, there's a good amount we also have to work on. By no means are we done."

Penn State should be fine at the tackle spots as starters Okoli and Quinn Barham both return. Senior DeOn'tae Pannell has nine career starts and Johnnie Troutman started the final 11 games last season at left guard.

The Lions must replace standout Stefen Wisniewski, who started at both guard and center during his career. But overall depth, as Paterno noted, could be a problem.

"We've got four seniors," Okoli said, "and as you get older, you've kind of earned your right in the hierarchy to say what you'd like to get done with the younger guys."

Penn State's line play has become a testy topic for fans the past two seasons.

The Lions' last elite offensive line led the team to a Big Ten title in 2008. It included Rimington Trophy winner A.Q. Shipley and three first-team All-Big Ten players (Shipley and tackles Rich Ohrnberger and Gerald Cadogan).

"They definitely set the bar," Okoli said. "If we can be anywhere close to those guys' level, we'll definitely compete for things I believe we're due for."

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Greetings from blustery Happy Valley, where I'll be spending the next day or so visiting with the Penn State Nittany Lions.

Much like my last stop (Ohio State), Penn State is one of the Big Ten's more intriguing teams this spring. The biggest reason: a quarterback competition featuring Rob Bolden, Matt McGloin, Paul Jones and Kevin Newsome. Coach Joe Paterno said last week that Bolden and McGloin, who split the starts in 2010, are ahead of the other two, but no clear-cut No. 1 has emerged.

The subplot is Bolden's future. The rising sophomore wanted to leave Penn State after the bowl game and has kept the door open for a possible departure. What will it take to keep Bolden in Happy Valley? A promise of more playing time? The starting job? McGloin isn't the type of guy to back down from a challenge, and he'll keep pushing Bolden in practice.

Other items that interest me:

• Line play: Penn State needs upgrades on both sides of the ball, particularly on defense. A historically superb defensive line took a step back in 2010, and there's not much depth at defensive end right now because of injuries. I like Penn State's potential at defensive tackle with Devon Still and others, but who will rush the passer this fall? Flipping to offense, Penn State loses standout Stefen Wisniewski, who started at both guard and center during his terrific career. Who takes charge of this group? Can it get back near its 2008 form?
• Skill position competitions: There's a lot to like about what Penn State returns at positions like wide receiver, running back and defensive back. Derek Moye is a bona fide All-Big Ten candidate at receiver, but who will emerge as the No. 2 and No. 3 options? I loved what I saw from Silas Redd at running back last season, and it'll be interesting to see if he can take another step in 2011. Penn State boasts the Big Ten's most experienced secondary, highlighted by cornerback D'Anton Lynn and safety Nick Sukay, but young players are pushing the veterans this spring.
• JoePa and the coaching staff: Paterno's coaching future is always a hot topic around here as he enters the final year of the contract extension he received following the 2008 season. Also, several of his assistants were in the mix for other jobs during the offseason, particularly longtime defensive coordinator Tom Bradley. What's the short-term future of this staff? How pivotal is this season to get Penn State back among the Big Ten's elite?

Should be a fun time in one of my favorite Big Ten towns. Check back for more on Penn State the next few days.

Marching toward spring ball.

• Five areas to watch for Purdue as the Boilers open spring practice today, Mike Carmin writes in The (Lafayette) Journal and Courier. Boilers receiver Keith Smith has turned his focus to the NFL, Eric Ingles writes in the Journal Review.
• CBS and Sports Illustrated put together a fascinating piece on crime in college football, which includes sobering stats, but also turnaround stories like Wisconsin's Kevin Claxton.
• Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio discusses the 2010 season, the future outlook and his health with The Grand Rapids Press' Greg Johnson. The Spartans aren't raising ticket prices for 2011, Shawn Windsor writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Ohio State cornerback Chimdi Chekwa showcased his speed at the combine, Ken Gordon writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Indiana reportedly will complete its coaching staff with Miami (Ohio) assistant Deland McCullough.
• Iowa's Phil Parker, and Wisconsin's Joe Rudolph and Paul Chryst make Rivals.com's dream team of assistant coaches.
• A look at Evan Royster's combine performance from The Times-Tribune's Donnie Collins.
• Iowa football ticket prices are once again on the rise, Scott Dochterman writes. Examining the Hawkeyes' quarterbacks entering spring ball, Marc Morehouse writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette. Iowa's rhabdo investigation could wrap up earlier than expected, Tom Witosky writes in the Des Moines Register.
• Colleague KC Joyner has an interesting piece on Nebraska's offense and its potential passing success in the Big Ten. Huskers cornerback Prince Amukamara silenced critics of his speed at the combine, Jon Nyatawa writes in the Omaha World-Herald.
• Minnesota players are helping each other show up for 6 a.m. workouts, Phil Miller writes in the Star Tribune.
• Michigan's draft prospects don't stand out at the combine, Mark Snyder writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• Big Ten draft hopefuls Stefen Wisniewski and Cameron Heyward talk about their NFL bloodlines in this Pro Football Weekly story.

Most of today's links are combine related, so I've split things into two categories.

BIG TEN COMBINE LINKS

• Iowa's Christian Ballard boasts valuable versatility as he eyes the next level, Marc Morehouse writes in The (Cedar Rapids) Gazette. Hawkeyes quarterback Ricky Stanzi is working with Tom Brady's passing guru, Ian Rapoport writes in the Boston Herald.
• Wisconsin tackle Gabe Carimi reflects on a good NFL combine experience. Badgers defensive lineman J.J. Watt could be a good fit for the Detroit Lions, Dave Birkett writes in the Detroit Free Press.
• The Patriots scout Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan and other pass-rushers at the combine, ESPNBoston.com's Mike Reiss writes. More on Kerrigan's NFL preparation from the Indianapolis Star's Mike Chappell.
• Illinois' Mikel Leshoure thinks he can be the first running back selected in April, ESPNChicago.com's Michael C. Wright writes. Leshoure's Illini teammate Martez Wilson, meanwhile, must answer his doubters in Indy, Wright writes.
• Penn State's Stefen Wisniewski could follow in his father's footsteps to Baltimore in the draft, Jamison Hensley writes in The Baltimore Sun.
• Adrian Clayborn's right arm is getting a close look at the combine, Morehouse writes.
• A surgically repaired wrist limited Ohio State's Chimdi Chekwa at the combine, Ken Gordon writes in The Columbus Dispatch.
• Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones has no regrets about returning to school, MLive.com's Tom Kowalski writes. Spartans coach Mark Dantonio discusses the team's four combine invitees.
• Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara takes a lighthearted approach to the combine, Chris Nelsen writes in the Omaha World-Herald.
• In case you missed it, some combine notes from the Scouts Inc. crew.

NON-COMBINE LINKS

• Indiana co-defensive coordinator Mike Ekeler (previously a Nebraska assistant) shares some thoughts on the differences between the Big Ten and Big 12, Steven M. Sipple writes in the Lincoln Journal Star.
• Another look at the contract for Michigan defensive coordinator Greg Mattison.
• Quarterback MarQueis Gray and two other Minnesota players stand out in a conditioning session, Darren Wolfson tweets.
• Iowa receiver Marvin McNutt will miss spring ball following offseason surgery.

All eyes were on Indianapolis this weekend as dozens of NFL prospects, including a large contingent from the Big Ten, went through the scouting combine.

My ESPN colleagues are all over the happenings in Naptown, so check out the combine blog and the latest Scouts Inc. combine notebook.

There's more testing and timing Monday with the defensive linemen and linebackers, but some results are in, so let's take a look. I'm breaking these down into top performers by position. I'll put together an overall top performers post once the combine is finished.

Wide receivers

• Nebraska's Niles Paul finished second in bench-press reps (225 pounds) with 24
• Paul tied for 14th in the 40-yard dash at 4.51 seconds
• Indiana's Terrance Turner tied for second in vertical jump at 41 inches
• Turner finished seventh in broad jump at 10 feet, 8 inches
• Ohio State's Dane Sanzenbacher finished second in 3-cone drill at 6.46 seconds; Turner tied for 14th at 6.77 seconds
• Sanzenbacher finished third in the 20-yard shuttle at 3.97 seconds; Paul finished 12th at 4.14 seconds; Turner finished tied for 13th at 4.15 seconds
• Sanzenbacher finished second in the 60-yard shuttle at 10.94 seconds; Turner tied for ninth at 11.21 seconds

Quarterbacks

• Iowa's Ricky Stanzi and Wisconsin's Scott Tolzien tied for 13th in the 40-yard dash at 4.93 seconds
• Stanzi finished ninth in the vertical jump at 32.5 inches; Tolzien tied for 12th at 29.5 inches
• Tolzien tied for seventh in the broad jump at 9 feet, 8 inches; Stanzi finished 12th at 9 feet, 2 inches
• Tolzien tied for third in the 3-cone drill at 6.84 seconds; Stanzi finished 12th at 6.95 seconds

Running backs

• Nebraska's Roy Helu Jr. finished sixth in the 40-yard dash at 4.42 seconds; Ohio State's Brandon Saine finished seventh at 4.43 seconds;
• Illinois' Mikel Leshoure tied for third in the vertical jump at 38 inches; Helu tied for eighth at 36.5 inches
• Leshoure tied for fourth in the broad jump at 10 feet, 2 inches; Helu finished 10th at 9 feet, 11 inches
• Helu finished second in the 3-cone drill at 6.67 seconds; Leshoure finished sixth at 6.82 seconds
• Helu finished first in the 20-yard shuttle at 4.01 seconds; Penn State's Evan Royster tied for eighth at 4.18 seconds
• Helu finished first in the 60-yard shuttle at 11.07 seconds

Tight ends

• Wisconsin's Lance Kendricks finished eighth in the 40-yard dash at 4.75 seconds; Michigan State's Charlie Gantt finished 11th at 4.93 seconds; Iowa's Allen Reisner finished 12th at 4.95 seconds
• Gantt tied for first in bench-press reps with 27; Kendricks tied for third with 25
• Kendricks finished sixth in vertical jump at 34.5 inches; Gantt finished 13th at 30.5 inches
• Kendricks finished second in broad jump at 10 feet, 2 inches; Gantt finished ninth at 9 feet, 4 inches; Reisner tied for 12th at 9 feet
• Kendricks finished sixth in the 3-cone drill at 6.94 seconds; Gantt finished 11th at 7.15 seconds
• Kendricks tied for second in 20-yard shuttle at 4.15 seconds; Gantt tied for eighth at 4.4 seconds
• Kendricks tied for sixth in 60-yard shuttle at 11.9 seconds; Gantt and Reisner tied for 11th at 12.12 seconds

Defensive linemen

• Wisconsin's J.J. Watt tied for fourth in bench-press reps with 34; Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan tied for sixth with 31

Linebackers

• Ohio State linebacker Ross Homan finished first in bench-press reps with 32; Ohio State's Brian Rolle finished fourth with 28; Illinois' Martez Wilson tied for ninth with 23

Offensive linemen

• Iowa's Julian Vandervelde tied for 10th in the 40-yard dash at 5.21 seconds; Indiana's James Brewer and Wisconsin's Gabe Carimi tied for 14th at 5.27 seconds
• Michigan's Stephen Schilling and Penn State's Stefen Wisniewski tied for sixth in bench-press reps with 30; Carimi tied for ninth with 29; Ohio State's Justin Boren tied for 14th with 28
• Carimi finished fifth in vertical jump at 31.5 inches; Vandervelde tied for sixth at 31 inches; Wisconsin's John Moffitt tied for eighth at 30.5 inches
• Carimi finished fifth in broad jump at 9 feet, 1 inch; Vandervelde finished tied for 13th at 8 feet, 8 inches
• Vandervelde finished seventh in 3-cone drill at 7.46 seconds; Wisniewski finished eighth at 7.51 seconds; Boren finished 11th at 7.57 seconds
• Moffitt finished sixth in 20-yard shuttle at 4.53 seconds; Vandervelde tied for seventh at 4.59 seconds; Schilling tied for ninth at 4.62 seconds;