ESPN College Football

Our series looking at the most indispensable players on each Big Ten team marches on with the Illinois Fighting Illini. Once again, this is not necessarily a listing of the best players on each team, but ones whose absence would be toughest to absorb because of their particular value or a lack of depth behind them.

We're selecting two players from each Big Ten squad, usually one on offense and one on defense, but not always. Let's look at Illinois under first-year coach Tim Beckman.

Graham Pocic, C, Sr.

There's no shortage of question marks for Illinois' offense, but Pocic provides a veteran anchor in the middle of the line. He has started every game the past two seasons at center, and earned honorable mention All-American honors from Phil Steele. While Illinois' offensive line struggled down the stretch in 2011, the group loses left tackle Jeff Allen, a second-round pick in last month's NFL draft, and has some depth issues to address. Pocic is undoubtedly the leader of the group, and will enter 2012 as one of the Big Ten's most seasoned offensive linemen. While Illinois must build some numbers at both wide receiver and running back, the offense won't go anywhere without a decent line. Pocic's presence on the field will be critical this fall.

Terry Hawthorne, CB, Sr.

Illinois' strength as a team is undoubtedly the defensive front seven. Despite the loss of All-America defensive end Whitney Mercilus, the Illini defensive line is both talented and deep. While there's not as much depth at linebacker, Jonathan Brown is a budding superstar in the middle. The question marks on defense rest with the secondary. While safety is a prime concern for Illinois, the unit boasts one of the league's top cover cornerbacks in Hawthorne, an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection. Hawthorne is a natural playmaker who recorded three interceptions, eight pass breakups and a forced fumble last season. The gifted senior even saw time at wide receiver this spring as Illinois tries to build depth there. Hawthorne has next-level potential, and leads a group that loses Tavon Wilson, a surprise second-round pick in last month's NFL draft.

The postseason position rankings are hitting the home stretch, and today we take a look at the Big Ten secondaries. It's a little tricky to evaluate secondary play from 2011. While seven Big Ten teams ranked in the top 18 nationally in pass defense, only two squads ranked in the top 29 in pass efficiency defense.

Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard was the lone Big Ten defensive back to appear on both the coaches' and media's first-team all-conference squad, so there was some disagreement.

The top seven units are solid, while the bottom three are among the worst in the FBS.

Michigan State once again tops a defensive chart, but the top four or five squads here were all strong in the secondary. Be sure and check out our preseason secondary rankings.

Let's get to the rundown:

1. Michigan State: The Spartans had three of four starting defensive backs — safety Trenton Robinson, cornerback Johnny Adams and safety Isaiah Lewis — selected first-team or second-team All-Big Ten, illustrating the depth coach Mark Dantonio has built in recent years. Michigan State's secondary also continued to be a playmaking unit, recording a league-best 18 interceptions, returning four for touchdowns. The Spartans had five defensive backs record two or more interceptions. Adams will enter the 2012 season pegged as the league's top cornerback.

2. Penn State: Like the other defensive units, Penn State's secondary shouldered a heavy burden because the team's offense struggled for so much of the season. The Lions had veteran leadership with D'Anton Lynn, Nick Sukay and Drew Astorino, and they led the Big Ten and ranked sixth nationally in pass efficiency defense (107.2 rating). Penn State finished third in the league in interceptions (14) and tied with Michigan for the fewest passing touchdowns allowed (12). Sukay earned second-team All-Big Ten honors.

3. Illinois: Although Illinois' strength on defense could be found in the front seven, the secondary held its own as well. The Illini ranked third nationally in pass defense (162.3 ypg), and opposing teams completed just 54.9 percent of their passes against the Orange and Blue. Illinois finished 30th nationally in pass efficiency defense. Although the safety play looked spotty at times, Illinois boasted a strong cornerback tandem in Terry Hawthorne and Tavon Wilson.

4. Michigan: Arguably no single position group in the Big Ten made more dramatic strides than Michigan's secondary, a lightning rod for criticism the previous three seasons. The Wolverines finished 16th nationally in pass defense and 36th in pass efficiency defense. Although they didn't record many interceptions, they tied for the league low in passing touchdowns allowed (12). Safety Jordan Kovacs emerged as an effective blitzer and playmaker and cornerback J.T. Floyd blossomed with two interceptions, eight pass breakups and a forced fumble. Corner Blake Countess is an exciting young talent.

5. Nebraska: The Huskers had the Big Ten's best defensive back in Dennard, who shut down arguably the league's top two receivers (Marvin McNutt, B.J. Cunningham) in Nebraska victories. But the group's overall performance was a bit underwhelming, as opposing teams attacked the deep middle and caused some personnel shuffling. Opposing teams completed just 53.2 percent of their passes against Nebraska, the lowest number in the Big Ten. Hard-hitting safety Daimion Stafford emerged for a group that loses Dennard and veteran safety Austin Cassidy.

6. Wisconsin: For the second straight season Wisconsin displayed good playmaking ability in the secondary, finishing second in the Big Ten with 16 interceptions. Safety Aaron Henry (coaches) and cornerback Antonio Fenelus (media) both received first-team All-Big Ten recognition. The Badgers also played most of the season without one of their starting cornerbacks, Devin Smith. But the unit also had some high-profile lapses at the end of games. Speed also became an issue in the Big Ten title game against Michigan State and in the Rose Bowl against Oregon.

7. Ohio State: The numbers aren't bad -- Ohio State ranked 14th in pass defense and 53rd in pass efficiency defense -- but the Buckeyes seemed to be missing something in the secondary, and throughout their entire defense, for that matter. There were some bright spots, like freshman cornerback Bradley Roby, and some hard hits delivered by safety C.J. Barnett and others. But Ohio State finished just eighth in the league (53rd nationally) in pass efficiency defense, as opposing teams completed more than 60 percent of their pass attempts against the Scarlet and Gray.

8. Purdue: We had high hopes for a group that returned all four starters, headlined by All-Big Ten candidate Ricardo Allen at cornerback. At times, Purdue's secondary looked solid, but the unit's overall performance fell in line with the team's average theme for 2011. Allen struggled to contain some elite wideouts but still finished the season with 81 tackles (62 solo), three interceptions, four pass breakups, a blocked kick and a forced fumble. He and Josh Johnson form an exciting cornerback tandem entering the 2012 campaign.

9. Iowa: Much like Ohio State, Iowa didn't have a typical season on defense, and the secondary had its share of struggles. Iowa had average numbers (58th in pass yards allowed, 72nd in efficiency), and allowed opposing teams to complete 62 percent of their passes. The Hawkeyes saw a big drop-off in playmaking, as they recorded only 10 interceptions and allowed 21 touchdown passes. Safety Micah Hyde earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from the media, while cornerback Shaun Prater didn't have the huge senior season some expected.

10. Northwestern: The Wildcats would finish last in some leagues, but they're the best of a bad bunch at the bottom of the rankings. Despite an All-Big Ten safety (Brian Peters) and a four-year starter at cornerback (Jordan Mabin), Northwestern suffered breakdowns in both scheme and execution. The Wildcats endured a particularly bad stretch to begin Big Ten play, as they couldn't stop Illinois receiver A.J. Jenkins, admittedly got confused against Iowa and let Penn State quarterback Matthew McGloin go off. The secondary has to be a huge priority for Pat Fitzgerald and his staff during the offseason.

11. Minnesota: It's a close call for the last spot, but Minnesota avoids the basement, thanks in large part to safety Kim Royston, who made the most of his sixth season with a team-high 123 tackles. But Royston was the lone bright spot for Minnesota's secondary, which stung from the loss of cornerback Troy Stoudermire to a broken arm. The Gophers recorded the fewest interceptions in the Big Ten (4), and allowed opponents to complete 67.7 percent of their passes, the highest total in the league. Minnesota finished 107th nationally in pass efficiency defense.

12. Indiana: The Hoosiers' historic struggles in the secondary continued in 2011, as they surrendered a league-high 26 passing touchdowns and finished 116th out of 120 FBS teams in pass efficiency defense. Opponents averaged 8.5 yards per completion against an Indiana team that played more freshmen than any squad in the FBS. There's some hope with players like safety-linebacker Mark Murphy and cornerback Greg Heban, and Indiana brings in two junior college defensive backs for 2012.

Semifinalists for both the Maxwell and Chuck Bednarik awards were announced on Monday, and the Big Ten presence is strong in the latter.

The Maxwell Award goes to the top player in college football, while the Bednarik trophy honors the top defensive player in the country.

Wisconsin's Russell Wilson is the only Big Ten player on the Maxwell semifinal list. The Badgers' losses in the last two weeks have hurt what was a strong campaign for their quarterback.

There's better news on the Bednarik front, where four Big Ten players are among the final 16. They are: Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus, Penn State defensive tackle Devon Still, Nebraska linebacker Lavonte David and Michigan State defensive tackle Jerel Worthy. All four are having tremendous seasons and should earn strong consideration as potential finalists.

You can view the entire Maxwell and Bednarik lists here.

The Thorpe Award, which goes to the nation's top cornerback, also announced its semifinalists on Monday. Unfortunately for the Big Ten, no league players made it. Guys who should have earned some consideration include Purdue's Ricardo Allen, Michigan State's Johnny Adams and Illinois' Tavon Wilson. Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard would have had a good shot if he hadn't missed time because of injury.

Those who do not study history are doomed ... to be confused by this post. Let's review Week 6 in the Big Ten.

Team of the week: Penn State. The Nittany Lions needed a confidence-building win, something to show us and themselves that they could be a legitimate contender in the Big Ten Leaders Division. They got that with a 13-3 victory against the thorn in their side, Iowa. The Nittany Lions' defense controlled the game from start to finish, and the offensive line had its best performance of the season. Penn State is 5-1, back in the coaches' poll and, with Purdue and Northwestern next, has a chance to get to 7-1.

Best game: Nebraska 34, Ohio State 27. So maybe this wasn't the clash of titans we thought it might be in the preseason, but the game still lived up to advance hype. The Cornhuskers completed the biggest comeback in school history by rallying from a 27-6 second-half deficit to add to Ohio State's misery. It was a season-saving type of game for Nebraska, which did not want to go into the bye week facing questions about an 0-2 start in Big Ten play.

Biggest play: Nebraska linebacker Lavonte David strip of Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller to ignite the team's comeback. The Cornhuskers went on to score 28 unanswered points, and Miller left the game a few plays later with an ankle injury. "That was a game-changing play," Huskers coach Bo Pelini said of David's forced fumble. "That was a huge play in the football game. He's been doing it since he got here."

Best call: After Penn State linebacker Gerald Hodges ripped the ball free from Iowa quarterback James Vandenberg near midfield, the Nittany Lions' offensive coaches decided to get physical. They ran the ball 10 straight times, wearing out the already tired Hawkeyes front seven, before Matt McGloin hit tight end Kevin Haplea on a short play-action pass into the end zone. It was the only touchdown of the game.

Big Man on Campus (Offense): Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez. After a week of withering criticism, Martinez completed 16-of-22 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 102 yards and a score in the comeback win against Ohio State.

Big Man on Campus (Defense): Illinois cornerback Tavon Wilson. The senior had a team-high 11 tackles, including 3.5 for loss and a sack, and returned a fumble 66 yards to give the Illini a lead they would not relinquish against Indiana.

Big Man on Campus (Special teams): Nebraska's Brett Maher. The Huskers' punter/kicker drilled field goals from 50 and 34 yards and averaged 44.2 yards on four punts, putting two inside the 20-yard line.

Worst hangover: Ohio State. It was hard not to feel a little sorry for the Buckeyes at the end of the loss in Lincoln. Ohio State's coaches had a great game plan that was executed brilliantly for more than a half. But the injury to Miller short-circuited the offense, and it was painful watching Joe Bauserman repeatedly misfire on passes that had little chance. If Miller is out for significant time, that's only going to further damage this team's chances of getting things turned around. And with Illinois and Wisconsin up next, this has the potential to be one of the worst months in the program's recent history.

Strangest moment: Let me preface this by saying journalists are usually not math majors or close to it. Still, Illinois coach Ron Zook caused armchair quarterbacks everywhere to scratch their heads when he decided to go for the two-point conversion after an Illini touchdown gave them a 20-13 lead against Indiana. Since it came midway through the second quarter and a simple extra point would have put his team up eight, Zook's call went against every principle on a coach's two-point cheat sheet. Even odder was Zook's answer when asked about it.

‘‘We were down five, right?" he said. "Up five, I mean. It was 20-13? Up seven?

‘‘Maybe I didn’t know what the score was. That’s happened to me before. It’s usually when we’re behind. I have to go back and look at it. That will give you something to pound us about."

No pounding here, coach. Just maybe a little chuckle.

Did Week 6 produce some separation in the Big Ten? It looks that way as Michigan and Illinois continued to roll, Penn State finally got over the hump against Iowa and Nebraska might have saved its season with a historic comeback against Ohio State.

The league's bottom two are obvious, but Northwestern, Iowa and Ohio State are moving in the wrong direction. Week 7 brings more huge matchups as five division games are on the slate.

Without further ado, the rankings ...

1. Wisconsin (5-0, 1-0 Big Ten): Bret Bielema's boys got to sit back and relax after their dominating Week 5 win against Nebraska. Wisconsin gets another tune-up this week against Indiana -- the Badgers slapped 83 on the Hoosiers last year -- before its first true road game of the season Oct. 22 at Michigan State. Style points will be important if Wisconsin intends to make a serious push for the BCS title game.

2. Michigan (6-0, 2-0): The first road win is always critical, and Brady Hoke's squad responded well to adversity after falling behind 24-14 at Northwestern. Michigan shored up its defense and began forcing takeaways, its trademark this season. Denard Robinson, meanwhile, continues to be unfazed by his own miscues as he shredded Northwestern for 450 yards (337 passing, 113 rushing) and four touchdowns (2 rush, 2 pass). This isn't Michigan of the recent past, and the Wolverines can rid themselves of any doubters by beating Michigan State in East Lansing next week.

3. Illinois (6-0, 2-0): Ron Zook's squad finally hit the road, and after an early hiccup, it handled its business against Indiana with none of the drama of the past three weeks. The Nathan Scheelhaase-A.J. Jenkins connection revved up again, and the defense received huge performances from end Whitney Mercilus and cornerback Tavon Wilson. You can only play the schedule you're given, and Illinois is gaining confidence with each win.

4. Michigan State (4-1, 1-0): A bye week fell at a good time for Michigan State, sandwiched between emotional games at Ohio State and against archrival Michigan. The Spartans have won three straight against Michigan but will face a more polished Wolverines squad this week in East Lansing. Michigan State was the first Big Ten team to slow down Robinson in 2010, and Jerel Worthy, Trenton Robinson and their fellow defenders need another strong effort against "Shoelace" in a game that could decide the Legends division champion.

5. Nebraska (5-1, 1-1): Credit the Huskers for never giving up, even when some of their fans had, and taking advantage of a shaken Ohio State team in the third quarter of Saturday night's game. Nebraska has a long way to go, particularly on defense, but the Huskers have played well in the second half of games and could be a dangerous team in the second half of the season. A quick-strike offense behind Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead will keep Nebraska in games. The defense has to be the focus for Bo Pelini and his staff entering the bye week.

6. Penn State (5-1, 2-0): The Lions make a move after an impressive home victory against longtime nemesis Iowa. Defense has been Penn State's calling card all season, and Tom Bradley's crew delivered a dominating performance to stifle James Vandenberg and an Iowa offense that came to Happy Valley with confidence. Matthew McGloin likely solidified the quarterback spot for Penn State, which is in position to make a nice October run.

7. Ohio State (3-3, 0-2): A breakthrough win vanished into the Lincoln night and an Ohio State team that played so well for two and a half quarters returned home with more disappointment in a season filled with it. Freshman QB Braxton Miller energized a dormant offense, but his ankle injury leaves things very much in doubt with two more ranked opponents on the schedule this month. Ohio State's fortitude once again will be tested, especially if Miller is out for any extended period.

8. Iowa (3-2, 0-1): So much for Iowa's sizzling pass attack. Quarterback James Vandenberg and his receivers struggled mightily against an elite defense Saturday in State College, as Iowa failed to score a touchdown for the first time in 48 games (31-6 loss to Purdue in 2007). The Hawkeyes are a young team that should improve with time, but they'll need to rebound after looking rattled in State College. Vandenberg threw two interceptions and was sacked five times, and he received little help from his receivers.

9: Purdue (3-2, 1-0): Credit the Boilers for taking care of business against a bad Minnesota team and putting the game out of reach early on. The defense stepped up by forcing three first-half turnovers, including a pick-six by sophomore CB Ricardo Allen, the third of his career. Purdue had another solid performance on the ground, although it must do a better job of limiting penalties and stretching the field in the passing game to rack up more Big Ten wins.

10. Northwestern (2-3, 0-2): A troubling trend of blowing big leads continued for Pat Fitzgerald's crew, but against Michigan, Northwestern didn't display its typical resilience and got steamrolled in a sour second half. Whether it's a lack of adjustments, poor execution, a lack of defensive talent or not enough leadership throughout the squad, Northwestern seems incapable of putting together a complete performance. No lead is safe for the Wildcats. Quarterback Dan Persa makes a difference, but Northwestern's defense can't get off of the field.

11. Indiana (1-5, 0-2): The Hoosiers got the start they wanted against Illinois, but things fell apart late in the first quarter after the Illini returned a fumble for a touchdown. Indiana's defense still has a long way to go, but the team might have found its quarterback of the future in freshman Tre Roberson, who provided a spark in the second half. It doesn't get easier next week at Wisconsin.

12. Minnesota (1-5,0-2): Jerry Kill and his players thought they hit rock bottom during a 58-0 loss to Michigan in Week 5. They were wrong. Minnesota never gave itself a chance against a so-so Purdue team on Saturday, falling behind 31-0 in the first half. The Gophers lack cohesion on offense, play-making on defense and confidence as a team. They've been outscored 103-17 the last two weeks. The bye week couldn't come at a better time as Minnesota tries to regroup for a daunting stretch run.

Recognizing the best and the brightest from Week 6 in the Big Ten:

• Illinois QB Nathan Scheelhaase: It was another big week for Scheelhaase, who had four total touchdowns in a 41-20 win over Indiana. Scheelhaase passed for 210 yards and three scores (two of them on long plays to A.J. Jenkins). He also rushed for 88 yards, reaching the end zone on a naked bootleg run.
• Penn State's defense: No unit in the Big Ten has been more heroic this season than the Nittany Lions' D, which has repeatedly rescued an inefficient offense and overcome key personnel losses. Tom Bradley's group saved its best performance for Saturday against longtime nemesis Iowa, recording three second-half takeaways and holding the Hawkeyes to just three points in a game for the first time since 2005. Devon Still and Jordan Hill led the way up front, and Penn State also received big performances from linebacker Gerald Hodges and cornerback Malcolm Willis in the 13-3 victory.
• Nebraska RB Rex Burkhead: The Huskers wisely made Burkhead a bigger part of the offense against Ohio State, and it paid off during a furious second-half rally that resulted in a 34-27 win. Burkhead racked up 108 rush yards and a touchdown and 30 receiving yards and a touchdown after halftime as Nebraska mounted the biggest comeback in team history. The junior finished with 178 total yards and two scores. Quarterback Taylor Martinez and linebacker Lavonte David also merit mentions here.
• Illinois DE Whitney Mercilus: The Big Ten's sack leader caused more havoc in a 41-20 win against Indiana. He finished with three sacks and four total tackles for loss while forcing a pair of fumbles, one of which teammate Tavon Wilson returned for a touchdown.
• Michigan QB Denard Robinson: Sure, Robinson threw three interceptions in the first half. But he more than made up for it. Robinson threw for 337 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 117 yards and two more scores in a 42-24 win at Northwestern.

Illinois looked a little sluggish to begin its first road game of the year. Indiana grabbed a quick 10-0 lead, showed a lot of enthusiasm and energy, raising our antennae for an upset alert.

But the Illini still have Nathan Scheelhaase and A.J. Jenkins, and that's a pretty good combo.

Scheelhaase has thrown three touchdown passes, two of them to Jenkins. A week after breaking the school single-game record for receiving yards, Jenkins already has 77- and 67-yard scores and 170 receiving yards in the first half.

They're the main reasons Illinois leads 27-13 in a half filled with big plays. The Hoosiers' Shane Wynn took the opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. Tavon Wilson returned a fumble 66 yards for a score. IU recovered two Illinois fumbles, one near the Illini goal line.

Indiana, though, has really struggled to get anything going in the passing game. Starting quarterback Dusty Kiel missed on his final seven throws of the half. True freshman Tre Roberson got a lot of time at quarterback in the first half as well. But IU is not going to fare well in a shootout with the Illini the way Scheelhaase and Jenkins are operating.

The most curious incident of the first half came midway through the second quarter, when Ron Zook decided to go for the two-point conversion while leading 20-13. It failed. Looking forward to hearing the explanation for that one.

Here's a buy-or-sell proposition for you.

Team X won its bowl game convincingly in December, capping a season that surprised many so-called experts. Team X boasts an exciting young dual-threat quarterback who has complemented his athleticism with better passing. Team X typically ranks among the nation's top-20 teams in rushing, returns a veteran line and a nice backfield mix. Despite losing three defenders to the NFL draft, Team X has several seasoned defensive backs and linebackers. Team X has won its first two games by a combined score of 89-18. Team X plays eight home games, including each of the first five and six of the first seven.

So, are you buying or selling?

Oh, you want to know the team's name? The head coach's name, too?

OK, understood. Let me know if you change your mind.

This is the perception the Illinois Fighting Illini and their coach Ron Zook are up against as they try to regain a place on the national college football radar. For every reason to buy into Illinois, there are other reasons to stay away from the Orange and Blue.

Illinois has been the ultimate tease in the Big Ten, twice reaching BCS bowls in the past decade, only to backslide. Zook has teased us with talent, bringing elite recruits to Champaign but not getting consistent results (30-45 in six-plus seasons).

While Illinois has the look of a team to watch in the Big Ten, there's a hesitancy from the outside to buy in, and players know it.

Check out receiver A.J. Jenkins' response to a seemingly neutral question: How big of an opportunity is Saturday night's game with No. 22 Arizona State?

"It's a really big opportunity for us," Jenkins said. "Both undefeated teams, playing a night game in prime time. It's going to be a good thing because we'll finally have the respect we deserve.

"We believe we can be a ranked, Top-25 team. This is the time for us to show the world that doesn't believe, that we're capable."

The Arizona State game comes at a perfect time for Illinois.

The Sun Devils come in ranked in both major polls (No. 22 AP; No. 18 coaches). They put themselves on the national radar with a dramatic overtime victory last Friday against Missouri. They boast one of the nation's most recognizable defenders in linebacker Vontaze Burfict and one of the nation's most recognizable quarterbacks in the 6-foot-8 Brock Osweiler.

Arizona State will be the main attraction nationally Saturday night, but if Illinois wins, attention will come its way. Maybe even respect.

"Our guys understand if we're going to be involved in the Big Ten [race], have something to do with that, this is a game where we're going to have to show up and play the way we're capable of playing," Zook said. "I don't think there's any question these guys are fired up about it."

The game pits an explosive Illinois offense against an Arizona State defense that ranked 16th nationally against the run in 2010. Illinois set a team scoring record last fall (423 points) and leads the Big Ten in scoring, total yards and rushing yards through the first two weeks.

Sophomore quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase is off to a quick start, but Burfict, whose reputation for administering ferocious hits and drawing personal fouls is well known, will be gunning for No. 2.

"The emotional part is the thing that really stands out with Vontaze," Zook said. "He's going to make sure you know he's around."

Osweiler also is tough to miss, and not just because of his unusual size. The junior was brilliant against Missouri, completing 24 of 32 passes for 353 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions.

Illinois needs its veteran linebackers and defensive backs like Ian Thomas, Trulon Henry, Tavon Wilson and Terry Hawthorne to step up.

"You can't get in his line of sight," Illini defensive coordinator Vic Koenning said of Osweiler. "They run the big split stuff where they get him throwing lanes. He's a big ol' quarterback and he's not unathletic. We're just going to do the best we can.

"This will be a fantastic challenge for us."

Illinois hasn't beaten a ranked opponent since stunning then-No. 1 Ohio State in Columbus in 2007. The victory spurred the Illini to the Rose Bowl.

Although beating Arizona State wouldn't make the same impact, it could springboard the Illini to bigger things when Big Ten play begins.

"For people who don't believe we can beat teams that are ranked, it's time to come out and see what we can do," Jenkins said. "This game might spark our season.

"I wouldn't say it's a must-win, but if we want the respect that we deserve, this is a win we need."

Wisconsin is 1-0. Michigan State should be 1-0 after tonight, barring a disaster.

East Lansing forecast for 7 p.m. (via National Weather Service): 86 degrees, with 13 mph winds and a 20 percent chance of rain.

On to the linkage:

• Russell Wilson lived up to the hype for Wisconsin. The Badgers won with style points as the nation was watching. Montee Ball and James White provided the backfield some very productive balance (and Ball helped my fantasy team take an early lead on Rittenberg's). Bret Bielema put more key players on special teams.

• This could be the most talented Michigan State team in decades. One of Mark Dantonio's first recruits, Joel Foreman remains a fixture for the Spartans on the offensive line. A primer on tonight's game, which Michigan State should win easily.

• Lions247.com reports that Rob Bolden will start at quarterback for Penn State. Jack Crawford says he's all the way back from last year's foot injury, and he's ready to shore up the troublesome defensive end spot.

• The Columbus Dispatch reports that the three latest suspended Ohio State players received gift bags for attending a charity event they hadn't cleared through the compliance office. Doug Lesmerises breaks down the Buckeyes position by position.

• Minnesota is hoping a little more speed can help it improve the nation's least productive pass rush from a year ago.

• Illinois is looking to be more consistent and actually put two winning years together back to back for the first time in 19 years. Tavon Wilson is a film-room nut for the Illini.

• Iowa's defensive line still looks deep despite so many NFL departures. Marc Morehouse breaks down the Tennessee Tech game.

• Michael Rosenberg spins the tale of how Brady Hoke came to be Michigan's man. Receiver Junior Hemingway is hoping for a healthy, highly productive year. The Wolverines must worry about Western Michigan quarterback Alex Carder. Graham Couch defends his stance that Carder is a better quarterback than Denard Robinson.
  
• Whither Dan Persa?

• Nebraska linebacker Alonzo Whaley needed a wake-up call but says his focus is in the right place now. True freshman Tyler Moore, who is expected to start at right tackle, is a rare breed.

• Despite the disheartening Rob Henry injury, Purdue says it's ready for Saturday's opener. The Boilers are paying Middle Tennessee $850,000 to come to West Lafayette, but Kent State funded half that figure.

• Kevin Wilson is disappointed in the ticket sales for the Indiana-Ball State game in Indianapolis (subscription required). The Hoosiers enter the season with all kinds of unknowns.

• The Big Ten needs to be ready to pounce on more expansion, Drew Sharp writes.

Two more Big Ten teams have produced their depth charts for Week 1. Let's take a look at Illinois' depth chart for the opener against Arkansas State, and Minnesota's depth chart for its opener at USC.

ILLINOIS

Depth chart (Page 10)

• As expected, redshirt freshman Michael Heitz has earned the starting strong-side offensive tackle spot. Scott McDowell and Simon Cvijanovic will serve as backups at tackle.
• Sophomore receiver Darius Millines earned a starting spot with a very strong performance in preseason camp. Classmate Spencer Harris also is listed as a starter at receiver alongside veteran A.J. Jenkins. Ryan Lankford, who had a strong spring, is listed as a backup to Jenkins.
• Senior Jason Ford is the No. 1 running back, while three players -- senior Troy Pollard and true freshmen Donovonn Young and Josh Ferguson -- are listed as co-backups. Don't be surprised if Young gets significant playing time behind Ford.
• Interesting to see Justin Green and Terry Hawthorne listed as co-starters at cornerback opposite senior Tavon Wilson. Hawthorne has been pretty impressive when healthy, but Green is right there in the mix.
• After starting last season at safety, Trulon Henry is listed as the starting strong-side linebacker. Sophomore Jonathan Brown enters the season as the top weak-side linebacker ahead of redshirt freshman Houston Bates.
• Sophomore Miles Osei and freshman Reilly O'Toole are listed as co-backups at quarterback behind Nathan Scheelhaase.
• No major surprises on the starting defensive line, as senior Craig Wilson steps into the tackle spot vacated by first-round draft pick Corey Liuget.
• Hawthorne is the team's No. 1 punt returner, while Pollard and Millines are the top two men on kickoff returns.
• Illinois has a good number of true freshmen and redshirt freshmen on the depth chart, including tight end Jon Davis, and defensive tackles Austin Teitsma and Jake Howe.

MINNESOTA

Depth chart (Page 22)

• Junior college transfer Malcolm Moulton has made quite an impression. Moulton is listed as the starter at two receiver positions (the "Z" and "V"); freshman Marcus Jones is the backup at both spots. Senior Collin McGarry is listed as another starting receiver alongside All-Big Ten candidate Da'Jon McKnight.
• Ryan Wynn and Zach Mottla are listed as co-starters at center, the result of Wynn battling a sprained ankle during preseason camp.
• Although Minnesota's interior offensive line might feature three senior starters, the top tackles are a sophomore (Ed Olson) and a redshirt freshman (Jimmy Gjere). Two other freshmen, Sean Ferguson and Foster Bush, are listed as Gjere's backups.
• The depth chart includes another redshirt freshman starter in defensive end Ben Perry. Minnesota is very young along the D-line, as tackles Anthony Jacobs and Brandon Kirksey are the only seniors listed among the top three players at each position.
• Freshman quarterback Max Shortell has won the backup job behind MarQueis Gray.
• Not many surprises among the linebackers, although Florida transfer Brendan Beal is just a co-backup with junior Ryan Grant at middle linebacker.
• Eric Lair, who stood out at tight end for Minnesota in 2010, is listed as the team's starting H-back/fullback.
• Sophomore Brock Vereen appears as the team's No. 1 cornerback opposite senior Troy Stoudermire. Shady Salamon and Kim Royston are the starting safeties.
• Not surprisingly, freshmen and redshirt freshmen fill coach Jerry Kill's Week 1 depth chart. Quite a few young players will get their college football baptism Saturday afternoon at the L.A. Coliseum.

Adam Rittenberg talks with Illinois cornerback Tavon Wilson.

Here's a tech-savvy tip for you Mac users out there: Don't spill a cup of iced tea on your Macbook. It does not in fact create a delicious, digital Arnold Palmer but in fact destroys your hard drive. It's been a rough 24 hours. But at least I've got enough leftover technology to answer some of your emails:

Robert R. from Philadelphia writes: Brian, in regards to your post about the B1G and expansion, you are COMPLETELY wrong. 1. Adding Texas A&M to the SEC adds TELEVISION SETS to the SEC footprint and expansion is about money first and foremost. Also, it gets SEC teams to play in Texas -- a prime recruiting state -- on a regular basis. 2. It IS going to happen...the big question remaining is who will the other team be. Most likely won't be Clemson, FSU or any other team in a state represented by a current SEC team (although that's not locked in stone) but more likely a Mizzou or someone that can grab some mid-USA TV sets.

Brian Bennett: Robert, I think you missed the point of that post. And that is, with all the expansion that happened last year and is potentially in the works now, the Big Ten still comes out ahead with the best move. You can't tell me Texas A&M, Missouri or Clemson is a better addition than Nebraska, even if the Cornhuskers aren't in a huge TV market. Nebraska simply makes the Big Ten stronger and is a perfect fit. That doesn't mean that expansion isn't coming or that the Big Ten shouldn't look to add more teams if other leagues get supersized. But getting it right is more important than getting left behind.

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Dan the Badger in Gopherland writes: Texas A&M stays put for now, so the tectonic plates of the college football landscape only tremor and we do not experience an all out earthquake...yet. But word is Oklahoma is not happy with the Longhorn Network at all and is looking for options as well. Delany and the B1G would be shrewd to add OK, bring in another "home-run" football school, re-unite the OK and NE rivalry, and further expand the conference recruiting base to the valuable South. Is the B1G looking into this, because they need to be.

Brian Bennett: Dan, other than Notre Dame, Oklahoma is the one school out there that makes the most sense. Texas is a little too big for its britches when it comes to the Big Ten, and Nebraska wouldn't like that at all. Oklahoma makes sense, though the school might not be a great fit for the Big Ten. I would imagine the Sooners might look to the Pac-12. But it's something the Big Ten definitely has to stay on top of.

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Sam from Wisconsin writes: Hey, Brian, which game will bigger in the eyes of fans and media across the nation, Michigan vs ND, or Wisconsin vs Nebraska?

Brian Bennett: It's definitely Wisconsin-Nebraska, with the only caveat being that neither team can afford embarrassing stumbles before their showdown. Notre Dame-Michigan will get some attention for being the first night game in the Big House and the traditions they bring to the table. But the Wolverines won't even be ranked for that game, whereas the Badgers and Huskers could easily both be in the top 10. Add in that it's Nebraska's first Big Ten game, and it becomes even more important.

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Tim D. from Detroit writes: It has been said that if the B1G wants Notre Dame to join the conference then the should stop scheduling games with ND. With coming of a 9 game conference schedule do you think that that will cause the dropping of games against ND? IF so, would that really cause them to join?

Brian Bennett: I talked to Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick last week, and he's definitely concerned about the rise of superconferences. He said scheduling is probably the hardest part of his job. The Irish fiercely cling to their independence, but if the landscape changes to where there are massive leagues and Notre Dame can't schedule or get a path to the BCS, its hand would be forced. By the way, a reader asked me last week if the Irish would be willing to move the Michigan State or Michigan games if the Big Ten goes to earlier conference games. Swarbrick told me Notre Dame has no problem with that concept and would welcome the added flexibility with its schedule.

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Drew M. from Clarksville, Tenn., writes: Which game for the Ohio State Buckeyes will be most defining? At Miami or at Nebraska? Does he start Joe B or Braxton Miller, Kenny Guiton, or Taylor Graham?

Brian Bennett: It's got to be the Nebraska game. Not only is that a key league game, but the Buckeyes will have all their suspended players back, and we'll get our first look at the team with all its parts. I believe Joe Bauserman will start the season, but I'm not so sure he ends it.

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William B. from Norfolk, Va., writes: I am in the U.S. Navy and the other college football fans onboard and I were wondering about Ohio State's self-imposed sanctions. I heard somewhere part of it was two years' probation. What exactly is probation and what other sanctions were imposed? I can't find the answers anywhere. Thanks so much!-All College football fans aboard USS Mahan (DDG-72) Naval Station

Brian Bennett: Cheers to all you sailor boys. William, probation in college sports is a lot like it is in real life. You're free to go about your business, but if you get in trouble while you're on probation, look out. A program can be ruled a repeat offender if it is found guilty of violations while on probation or even not long after it has gone off probation, and that means stiffer penalties. Of course, Ohio State doesn't have to check in with a probation officer. But wouldn't it be fun if the NCAA had one?

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Jan from Falls Church, Va., writes: Interesting debate on where the Big Ten is deepest. You make compelling arguments for DT, but corner is close, better than C, in my opinion. Dennard, Prater, Lynn, Fenelus, Ricardo Allen, Johnny Adams, Jordan Mabin, Tavon Wilson -- there will be plenty of talented guys not getting any All-Conference accolades. It will also be interesting to see how all these new QBs adapt to it.I think DT has more high end talent, but corner has far more quality depth.

Brian Bennett:You make some good points, Jan. Cornerback is a really strong position, especially with Dennard coming into the league. There are several experienced receivers, too, so we can expect some good matchups in the passing game this year.

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Matt from Columbus, Ohio, writes: The position of power post had me thinking about individual battles. What do you think could be the best individual matchups this year? I'm officially nominating Mike Brewster vs Jared Crick when Ohio State visits Lincoln.

Brian Bennett: That's an outstanding one, Matt, and I don't think I can come up with a better matchup. I would like to see some open field matchups, like Denard Robinson vs. Lavonte David or Montee Ball against Trenton Robinson, but those aren't guaranteed to take place.

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Lance from Greensboro, S.C., writes: In your article about Bubba Starling I'm surprised you didn't mention the most famous baseball to college football guy -- Josh Booty. I think they were both picked around the same spot in the MLB draft, so might be the best parallel.

Brian Bennett: There have been numerous examples, and it's pretty amazing how many guys have failed at baseball only to come back and be pretty good quarterbacks. It's been said that quarterback is the hardest position to master in sports. I think it's harder to hit a curveball.

Four weeks from tomorrow, people.

• Donations to Michigan have risen by more than 22 percent since Brady Hoke was hired. The Wolverines are making hay in Ohio -- and giving their tunnel a new look. Expect the Michigan defense to get back to the basics.

• Penn State needs a quarterback -- and an identity on offense.

• Wisconsin has some challenges at linebacker after losing two senior starters. But Chris Borland is itching to get back on the field after being slowed by injuries. Aaron Henry's recruitment took some interesting twists and turns. The offensive line, led by Kevin Zeitler, has sky-high expectations. The Badgers will get an ESPN spotlight this preseason.

• Trenton Robinson is ready to be a leader for the Michigan State defense.

• MarQueis Gray spent time mentoring high school players this summer as he got ready to take the reins of the Minnesota offense.

• Nebraska fans can have breakfast with Bo this fall, and it's for a good cause. Rex Burkhead looks like the ideal leader of the Cornhuskers' running backs, and he's ready to be a workhorse in 2011.

• Judges ruled that Southern Miss' logo looks too much like Iowa's Hawkeye, even though it's supposed to be an eagle. Marc Morehouse and Scott Dochterman wrap up Big Ten media days with a podcast.

• Craig Krenzel breaks down the Ohio State quarterback situation.

• A look at cornerback Tavon Wilson as Illinois draws ever closer to opening camp. Jeff Allen brings enthusiasm and thoughtfulness to the Illini.

• Northwestern made sure athletic director Jim Phillips will stick around a long time.

• The Indiana defense has to get better or else (subscription required).

• Danny Hope has established a regional recruiting pipeline at Purdue.

• CollegeFootballNews.com previews the Big Ten and says the league must improve as a whole.

The Big Ten on Thursday announced its list of players appearing at preseason media days, which will be held July 28-29 in Chicago.

This announcement is probably bigger for media types than fans, but it gives an idea of who teams view as leaders and positive representatives for their programs.

Here's the list:

ILLINOIS

• Jeff Allen, Sr., OL*
• A.J. Jenkins, Sr., WR
• Tavon Wilson, Sr., DB*

INDIANA

• Damarlo Belcher, Sr., WR*
• Max Dedmond, Sr., TE
• Jeff Thomas, Sr., LB

IOWA

• Mike Daniels, Sr., DT*
• Marvin McNutt, Sr., WR*
• Tyler Nielsen, Sr., LB

MICHIGAN

• Kevin Koger, Sr., TE
• Mike Martin, Sr., DT*
• Denard Robinson, Jr., QB*

MICHIGAN STATE

• Edwin Baker, Jr., RB*
• Kirk Cousins, Sr., QB*
• Trenton Robinson, Sr., S*

MINNESOTA

• Duane Bennett, Sr., RB
• MarQueis Gray, Jr., QB
• Mike Rallis, Jr., LB

NEBRASKA

• Rex Burkhead, Jr., RB*
• Jared Crick, Sr., DT*
• Lavonte David, Sr., LB*

NORTHWESTERN

• Jordan Mabin, Sr., CB*
• Al Netter, Sr., OT*
• Dan Persa, Sr., QB*

OHIO STATE

• Mike Brewster, Sr., C*
• Orhian Johnson, Jr., DB
• Andrew Sweat, Sr., LB

PENN STATE

• Michael Mauti, Jr., LB
• Derek Moye, Sr., WR*
• Joe Suhey, Sr., RB

PURDUE

• Albert Evans, Sr., S
• Joe Holland, Sr., LB
• Carson Wiggs, Sr., K/P*

WISCONSIN

• Patrick Butrym, Sr., DT
• Aaron Henry, Sr., S*
• Nick Toon, Sr., WR*

*previous All-Big Ten or All-Big 12 (Nebraska) selection

Thoughts: Not a lot of surprises here. Six teams took the all-senior route with invitations, and no sophomores made the list. Three sophomores I hoped to see were Illinois QB Nathan Scheelhaase, Nebraska QB Taylor Martinez and Wisconsin RB James White, the 2010 Big Ten Freshman of the Year. It's a little surprising that neither White nor fellow running back Montee Ball made Wisconsin's list. ... There's a pretty good quarterback presence overall with Cousins, Denard Robinson, Gray and Persa. I was interested to see if Iowa would bring James Vandenberg, who has been tabbed as a team leader. ... As for charismatic personalities, there's not a Jay Valai on this list, but another Badger, Henry, should provide some entertainment. Other quotable players include Crick, Mabin, Gray, Cousins, Mauti, Trenton Robinson, Jeff Allen and Marvin McNutt. I'm sure I'll add a few names by the end of media days. ... Cousins will speak on behalf of the players at the Big Ten kickoff luncheon July 29. ... Purdue's Wiggs is the lone specialist making the trip to Chicago, just like Michigan State punter Aaron Bates was last year. ... The list includes 18 former All-Big Ten selections, while all three Nebraska players earned All-Big 12 honors in 2010. Six first-team all-conference honorees will be in attendance. ... The list likely includes the preseason offensive and defensive players of the year. I'd expect Denard Robinson or Persa to earn offensive honors and Crick or David to take home defensive honors.

Let's delve a bit deeper into the Big Ten secondaries by breaking down the league's top cornerbacks entering 2011.

This group could be one of the league's best, as it features a nice mix of established veterans and budding young players. Only two Big Ten cornerbacks -- Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard and Wisconsin's Antonio Fenelus -- made the preseason watch list for the Jim Thorpe Award, but I expect several more players to make their way onto the radar in the coming months.

Here's the rundown ...

1. Alfonzo Dennard, Nebraska, senior: He's the final member of Nebraska’s triumvirate on defense along with tackle Jared Crick and linebacker Lavonte David. Dennard earned second-team All-Big 12 honors in 2010 after recording 30 tackles, four interceptions and seven passes defended. After working alongside All-American Prince Amukamara, Denard is ready to take center stage.

2. Ricardo Allen, Purdue, sophomore: Get to know this name, Big Ten fans. Allen is one of the nation’s most dynamic young defensive backs. He recorded three interceptions in 2010, returning two for touchdowns, and finished fourth on the team with 73 tackles. Just 5-foot-9 and 175 pounds, Allen uses an aggressive style that's a lot of fun to watch.

3. Shaun Prater, Iowa, senior: Prater considered a jump to the NFL before returning to Iowa, where he'll lead a new-look secondary in 2011. He earned consensus first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2010 after recording four interceptions, 10 passes defended, a fumble recovery and 68 tackles. After losing two multiyear starters at safety, Iowa needs Prater to shut down one half of the field this fall.

4. Antonio Fenelus, Wisconsin, senior: Fenelus played an integral role in the Badgers' overall improvement as a playmaking secondary in 2010. He led the team in both interceptions (4) and passes defended (11) and finished second in fumbles recovered (2). The media rewarded Fenelus by selecting him first-team All-Big Ten. He forms a solid cornerback tandem with Devin Smith.

5. D'Anton Lynn, Penn State, senior: Lynn took a significant step forward in 2010 and should contend for All-Big Ten honors this fall. He emerged in the second half of the season and finished with 75 tackles, three interceptions, seven passes defended and a fumble recovery. Penn State's secondary will be a strength this fall, and Lynn will showcase his talents against the Big Ten's top receivers.

6. Johnny Adams, Michigan State, junior: Here's another player who appears to be on the verge of big things in 2011. Adams surged throughout spring practice and was the first player selected in Michigan State's spring game draft. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches last season after recording three interceptions and 10 passes defended. Adams also had a forced fumble and recovered a blocked punt that helped cap Michigan State's come-from-behind win against Purdue.

7. Jordan Mabin, Northwestern, senior: Mabin is the Big Ten's most experienced cornerback, as he enters his fourth season as a starter and boasts 37 career starts. After a so-so-sophomore season in 2009, Mabin earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors last season, as he led the Big Ten and tied for 12th nationally in passes defended with 15 (1.15 per game). He capped his season with a pick-six in the TicketCity Bowl and should be in the mix for All-Conference honors this season.

8. Travis Howard, Ohio State, junior: This is a projection pick, as Howard moves into a featured role this fall after playing behind Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence. He showed some promise in 2010 with two interceptions, four passes defended and a fumble recovery in limited action. There's a lot of buzz about Howard entering the fall as Ohio State looks for its next shutdown corner.

9. Tavon Wilson, Illinois, senior: A rash of injuries forced Wilson to move to safety in 2010, but he's back at his preferred position entering the fall. He recorded 74 tackles, an interception and seven pass breakups at cornerback in 2009 and continued to make plays at safety last season, leading the team in passes defended (9) and adding an interception and two fumble recoveries. Wilson brings versatility to a secondary that might take a big step forward this season.

10. Josh Johnson, Purdue, junior: Allen garnered much of the attention in 2010, but Johnson forms a nice complement on the other side. He tied for second in the league with three forced fumbles and added an interception, seven passes defended, a fumble recovery and 53 tackles. Johnson's playmaking ability should come in handy, especially if opposing teams start throwing away from Allen.

Just missed the cut: Minnesota's Troy Stoudermire, Michigan's Troy Woolfolk, Illinois' Terry Hawthorne, Wisconsin's Devin Smith.