High School talents will make it official and sign letters of intent on wednesday. According to ESPN.com, here are the Big Ten teams in the national top 25.
1. Ohio State-ESPN150 commitments: 7 ESPN rank: 4
Running back Jamal Berry and wide receiver Duron Carter lead the way on offense. Dual threat quarterback Tajh Boyd chose Clemson and Ohio prep star Austin Boucher stuck to his original commitment to Miami (Ohio) leaving the Buckeyes with little depth behind Terelle Pryor, last year's number one prospect. No. 4 rated outside linebacker Dorian Bell and No. 10 cornerback C.J. Barnett should help the Buckeyes compensate for losing most of their defense.
2. Michigan-ESPN150 commitments: 4 ESPN rank: 14
Rich Rodriguez's first full recruiting class at Michigan should help the Wolverines climb back up the conference standings. No. 4 defensive end Craig Roh played well in the Under Armour All-America Game. The Wolverines lost commitments from quarterback Kevin Newsome and wide receiver Bryce McNeal, but will bring in top dual threat quarterback Tate Forcier to run Rich Rodriguez's spread system.
3. Penn State-ESPN150 commitments:3 ESPN rank: 15
The Nittany Lions class is led by Michigan decomittment Kevin Newsome, who should take over the reigns at quarterback after Darryl Clark graduates. No. 2 kicker Anthony Fara will try to replace four year starter Kevin Kelly. No. 6 cornerback Darrell Givens is a little raw but is athletic and has a 6'-1" frame.
4. Illinois-ESPN150 committments: 2 ESPN rank: 19
Elusive Terry Hawthorne and speedy Kraig Appleton are top wide reciever prospects from state champion East St. Louis. Kansas City area multi-dimmensional quarterback Nathan Scheelhasse will be throwing to Hawthorne and Appleton. No. 7 defensive end Craig Drummond decommited to Ole Miss.
5. Michigan State-ESPN150 commitments: 2 ESPN rank: 21
Iowa decommitment offensive tackle David Barrent and top 25 running back Edwin Barker look to replace Javon Ringer's production in the running game. Top 20 quarterback Andrew Maxwell is polished and could be the Spartans' quarterback of the future. Mark Dantonio is backing up an appearance in a New Year's Day bowl game with Sparty's best class in a while.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Spring Game Schedule
After national signing day this wednesday, the college football season will roll onto spring practice and spring games. Here are the scheduled dates, first the start of practice followed by the game.
Illinois: the week of March 30; April 25
Indiana: March 24; April 18
Iowa: March 25; April 18
Michigan: March 14; April 11
Michigan State: March 24; April 25
Minnesota: March 24; April 25
Noirthwestern: March 30 (tentative); April 25
Ohio State: the first week of April; April 25
Penn State: late March; April 25
Purdue: March 25; April 18
Wisconsin: March 24; April 18
Illinois: the week of March 30; April 25
Indiana: March 24; April 18
Iowa: March 25; April 18
Michigan: March 14; April 11
Michigan State: March 24; April 25
Minnesota: March 24; April 25
Noirthwestern: March 30 (tentative); April 25
Ohio State: the first week of April; April 25
Penn State: late March; April 25
Purdue: March 25; April 18
Wisconsin: March 24; April 18
Thursday, January 15, 2009
The Big 10 Conference Schedule
Much of a college football team's success is based on their schedule. How many cupcakes are on the schedule and the circle this date it's going to be on primetime type games. Here's a look at the way the 2009 Big 10 conference schedule sets up. The two teams listed are not playing the corresponding team.
Penn State: Purdue, Wisconsin
Ohio State: Michigan State, Northwestern
Illinois: Iowa, Wisconsin
Michigan State: Indiana, Ohio State
Northwestern: Michigan, Ohio State
Minnesota: Indiana, Michigan
Iowa: Illinois, Purdue
Wisconsin: Illinois, Penn State
Michigan: Minnesota, Northwestern
Purdue: Iowa, Penn State
Indiana: Michigan State, Minnesota
Ohio State gets a break not having to face Michigan State or Northwestern, two of the conference's better defenses. The likely preseason conference favorite, Penn State, will have to earn another championship missing Purdue and Wisconsin. My bottom four teams don't play each other, making their schedules difficult and and more seperation between the top tier and bottom tier of the conference.
Penn State: Purdue, Wisconsin
Ohio State: Michigan State, Northwestern
Illinois: Iowa, Wisconsin
Michigan State: Indiana, Ohio State
Northwestern: Michigan, Ohio State
Minnesota: Indiana, Michigan
Iowa: Illinois, Purdue
Wisconsin: Illinois, Penn State
Michigan: Minnesota, Northwestern
Purdue: Iowa, Penn State
Indiana: Michigan State, Minnesota
Ohio State gets a break not having to face Michigan State or Northwestern, two of the conference's better defenses. The likely preseason conference favorite, Penn State, will have to earn another championship missing Purdue and Wisconsin. My bottom four teams don't play each other, making their schedules difficult and and more seperation between the top tier and bottom tier of the conference.
The Big 10 Non Conference Schedule
The Big 10's reputation has taken a hit with the league's performances in recent bowl games. The 2009 nonconference schedule features several games to help the league's reputation.
Penn State: Syracuse, Temple, Eastern Illinois
Ohio State: Navy, USC, Toledo (in Cleveland), New Mexico State
Illinois: Missouri (in St. Louis), Illinois State, Fresno State, at Cincinnatti
Michigan State: Montana State, Central Michigan, at Notre Dame, Western Michigan (in Detroit)
Northwestern: Miami (OH), Towson, at Syracuse, Eastern Michigan
Minnesota: at Syracuse, Air Force, California, South Dakota State
Iowa: Northern Iowa, at Iowa State, Arizona, Arkansas State
Wisconsin: Northern Illinois, Fresno State, Wofford, at Hawaii
Michigan: Western Michigan, Notre Dame, Eastern Michigan
Purdue: Toledo, at Oregon, Northern Illinois, Notre Dame
Indiana: Eastern Kentucky, Western Michigan, at Akron, South Florida
The premier game here is the Ohio State USC rematch. An Ohio State victory would make them national championship contenders. Terelle Pryor will be off to the races against a revamped Trojan defense.
The Missouri game is a good test for the Illini. The Tigers are losing their top players from the last two years' Big 12 North championship teams. Illinois shouldn't have to come back like the last two years. In the last week of the season Illinois will play at Big East champ Cincinnatti. This game will affect bowl positioning.
Minnesota and Cal is an intriguing matchup. Iowa and Arizona will feature Iowa's smashmouth running game against Arizona's spread attack. Purdue goes out to Eugene and the much feared Autzen Stadium against Oregon to complete the Big 10-Pac 10 round robin. Michigan State, Michigan, and Purdue will get cracks at likely top 25 Notre Dame.
Penn State: Syracuse, Temple, Eastern Illinois
Ohio State: Navy, USC, Toledo (in Cleveland), New Mexico State
Illinois: Missouri (in St. Louis), Illinois State, Fresno State, at Cincinnatti
Michigan State: Montana State, Central Michigan, at Notre Dame, Western Michigan (in Detroit)
Northwestern: Miami (OH), Towson, at Syracuse, Eastern Michigan
Minnesota: at Syracuse, Air Force, California, South Dakota State
Iowa: Northern Iowa, at Iowa State, Arizona, Arkansas State
Wisconsin: Northern Illinois, Fresno State, Wofford, at Hawaii
Michigan: Western Michigan, Notre Dame, Eastern Michigan
Purdue: Toledo, at Oregon, Northern Illinois, Notre Dame
Indiana: Eastern Kentucky, Western Michigan, at Akron, South Florida
The premier game here is the Ohio State USC rematch. An Ohio State victory would make them national championship contenders. Terelle Pryor will be off to the races against a revamped Trojan defense.
The Missouri game is a good test for the Illini. The Tigers are losing their top players from the last two years' Big 12 North championship teams. Illinois shouldn't have to come back like the last two years. In the last week of the season Illinois will play at Big East champ Cincinnatti. This game will affect bowl positioning.
Minnesota and Cal is an intriguing matchup. Iowa and Arizona will feature Iowa's smashmouth running game against Arizona's spread attack. Purdue goes out to Eugene and the much feared Autzen Stadium against Oregon to complete the Big 10-Pac 10 round robin. Michigan State, Michigan, and Purdue will get cracks at likely top 25 Notre Dame.
2009 Big 10 is Wide Open
In the last post, I gave my 2009 Big 10 rankings. While Penn State and Ohio State will be the favorites, the Big Ten will be wide open in 2009.
Since the last post, all-american Penn State defensive end Aaron Maybin, who had 12 sacks and 20 tackles for a loss, has decided to enter the NFL draft. Following him is 2007 all-Big 10 defensive end Maurice Evans, who had a up and down 2008. These early departures are huge blows to Penn State's defense. The Nittany Lions are already losing their three top wide recievers, and two important offensive lineman.
Meanwhile Ohio State cornerback Donald Washington and wide receiver Brian Hartline have decided to enter the NFL draft. The Buckeyes are already losing the bulk of their defense, including all-americans James Laurinitis and Malcom Jenkins, and most of their offensive line.
Most of the teams have legitimate hopes to win the conference. In my rankings, any team from one to seven could be going to Pasadena. On ESPN.com Mark Schlabach predicted Northwestern to be a contender to go to the Rose Bowl.
Illinois is a team to watch out for with it's talented skill position players. If linebacker Martez Wilson and the defense improves the Illini can win any game on their schedule. The Wildcats are the opposite with a shutdown defense coming back but questions at running back and wide receiver. Mark Dantonio has the Spartans program on the right track and should have a solid defense. Iowa is ranked by some in the top 15 next year. Even Minnesota is a threat with the Adam Weber and Eric Decker combo in the new TCF Bank Stadium.
Expect a competitive race to the roses next year.
Since the last post, all-american Penn State defensive end Aaron Maybin, who had 12 sacks and 20 tackles for a loss, has decided to enter the NFL draft. Following him is 2007 all-Big 10 defensive end Maurice Evans, who had a up and down 2008. These early departures are huge blows to Penn State's defense. The Nittany Lions are already losing their three top wide recievers, and two important offensive lineman.
Meanwhile Ohio State cornerback Donald Washington and wide receiver Brian Hartline have decided to enter the NFL draft. The Buckeyes are already losing the bulk of their defense, including all-americans James Laurinitis and Malcom Jenkins, and most of their offensive line.
Most of the teams have legitimate hopes to win the conference. In my rankings, any team from one to seven could be going to Pasadena. On ESPN.com Mark Schlabach predicted Northwestern to be a contender to go to the Rose Bowl.
Illinois is a team to watch out for with it's talented skill position players. If linebacker Martez Wilson and the defense improves the Illini can win any game on their schedule. The Wildcats are the opposite with a shutdown defense coming back but questions at running back and wide receiver. Mark Dantonio has the Spartans program on the right track and should have a solid defense. Iowa is ranked by some in the top 15 next year. Even Minnesota is a threat with the Adam Weber and Eric Decker combo in the new TCF Bank Stadium.
Expect a competitive race to the roses next year.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Way Too Early 2009 Predictions
The college football season just ended but it's already time to look at 2009. In the Big 10, heavy favorite Ohio State's offense strugged in the big games, Beanie Wells' injury had something to do with it, and Penn State rode their flashy HD offense and stout defense to Pasadensa. After going to the Rose Bowl, Illinois didn't even make it to a bowl game going 5-7. A porous secondary was a major problem. Michigan's offense was poor, at best, and the Wolverines went 3-9. Wisconsin started 3-0 and in the top 10 before their lack of a passing game caught up with them. Michigan State's rebuilding is ahead of schedule and Northwestern's defensive improvements helped them to nine win regular seasons.
After considering the players departing, as shown in the last blog, and who that leaves returning, I have an idea of where the teams should be next year.
1. Penn State
2. Ohio State
3. Illinois
4. Michigan State
5. Northwestern
6. Minnesota
7. Iowa
8. Wisconsin
9. Michigan
10. Purdue
11. Indiana
2009 should be very competetive in the Big Ten.
With Darryl Clark and Evan Royster returning in the backfield, Penn State is the early favorite. They must find some widouts to avoid becoming one-dimensional.
Ohio State's season will come down to Terrelle Pryor's improvement as a passer and finding replacements for the losses on defense. Gone are Beanie Wells, most of the offensive line, the linebackers and all-american cornerback Malcom Jenkins. Ohio State has been a perenial Big 10 power but has major holes to fill.
Illinois vastly underachieved this year. Their offense should be the best in the conference next year with Juice Williams and Arrelious Benn, but Juice must cutdown on his interceptions. The secondary, except for future NFL first round draft pick Vontae Davis, looked clueless this year. Illinois could be 5-7 again or 12-0 depending on their defense.
Michigan State loses their only offensive threat in Javon Ringer. The defense should be solid. The Spartans could be in another January bowl game if they can find some weapons on offense.
Northwestern's defensive improvement under coordinator Mike Hankwitz vaulted them to a nine win regular season. Mike Kafka can run and should fill in well for C.J. Bacher. A running back must be found and 3 new starting linebackers. Their safeties, Brendan Smith and Brad Phillips, are some of the best in the conference.
Minnesota returns all of their offense and most of their defense. A defensive improvement could prevent Minnepta's customary late season collapse. Adam Weber and Eric Decker should be a potent pass catch combo.
On ESPN.com Mark Schlabach ranked Iowa at 13th nationally in his preseason poll. Iowa did end the season on a roll as they beat Big 10 champion Penn State, crushed South Carolina in the Outback Bowl, and their 4 losses were by a combined 12 points, but I don't see them as a top 25 team. The best player in the Big 10 and best running back in the country was Shonn Greene and he was Iowa's only weapon this year. Points should be hard to come by next year and the two best defensive players, defensive tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul, are graduating. Iowa should get to a bowl game but with their offensive situation another January bowl seems unlikely.
Wisconsin is getting hit with some heavy losses, especially on defense. Next year, the Badgers will be hard pressed to improve upon this year's appearance in the Champs Sports Bowl. Getting priduction in the passing game is priorities one, two, and three.
Michigan was historically bad at 3-9 because of their lack of an offense, especially a passing offense. The defense was solid for the most part but was left on the field for too long. Most of Michigan's better defenders will be gone next year and the offense doesn't look like it's going to be much better. Even a trip to the Motor City Bowl looks unlikely for the the Wolverines.
Purdue beat the teams it should beat this year, but lost against the better teams. The skill positions on offense will get a makeover and Purdue won't score enough points and stop won't stop enough teams from scoring to contend in the Big 10.
Indiana made it to the 2007 Insight Bowl, their first bowl game since 1993. This year they went right back to the conference basement and appear to be staying there next year. Most of their good players won't be back.
After considering the players departing, as shown in the last blog, and who that leaves returning, I have an idea of where the teams should be next year.
1. Penn State
2. Ohio State
3. Illinois
4. Michigan State
5. Northwestern
6. Minnesota
7. Iowa
8. Wisconsin
9. Michigan
10. Purdue
11. Indiana
2009 should be very competetive in the Big Ten.
With Darryl Clark and Evan Royster returning in the backfield, Penn State is the early favorite. They must find some widouts to avoid becoming one-dimensional.
Ohio State's season will come down to Terrelle Pryor's improvement as a passer and finding replacements for the losses on defense. Gone are Beanie Wells, most of the offensive line, the linebackers and all-american cornerback Malcom Jenkins. Ohio State has been a perenial Big 10 power but has major holes to fill.
Illinois vastly underachieved this year. Their offense should be the best in the conference next year with Juice Williams and Arrelious Benn, but Juice must cutdown on his interceptions. The secondary, except for future NFL first round draft pick Vontae Davis, looked clueless this year. Illinois could be 5-7 again or 12-0 depending on their defense.
Michigan State loses their only offensive threat in Javon Ringer. The defense should be solid. The Spartans could be in another January bowl game if they can find some weapons on offense.
Northwestern's defensive improvement under coordinator Mike Hankwitz vaulted them to a nine win regular season. Mike Kafka can run and should fill in well for C.J. Bacher. A running back must be found and 3 new starting linebackers. Their safeties, Brendan Smith and Brad Phillips, are some of the best in the conference.
Minnesota returns all of their offense and most of their defense. A defensive improvement could prevent Minnepta's customary late season collapse. Adam Weber and Eric Decker should be a potent pass catch combo.
On ESPN.com Mark Schlabach ranked Iowa at 13th nationally in his preseason poll. Iowa did end the season on a roll as they beat Big 10 champion Penn State, crushed South Carolina in the Outback Bowl, and their 4 losses were by a combined 12 points, but I don't see them as a top 25 team. The best player in the Big 10 and best running back in the country was Shonn Greene and he was Iowa's only weapon this year. Points should be hard to come by next year and the two best defensive players, defensive tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul, are graduating. Iowa should get to a bowl game but with their offensive situation another January bowl seems unlikely.
Wisconsin is getting hit with some heavy losses, especially on defense. Next year, the Badgers will be hard pressed to improve upon this year's appearance in the Champs Sports Bowl. Getting priduction in the passing game is priorities one, two, and three.
Michigan was historically bad at 3-9 because of their lack of an offense, especially a passing offense. The defense was solid for the most part but was left on the field for too long. Most of Michigan's better defenders will be gone next year and the offense doesn't look like it's going to be much better. Even a trip to the Motor City Bowl looks unlikely for the the Wolverines.
Purdue beat the teams it should beat this year, but lost against the better teams. The skill positions on offense will get a makeover and Purdue won't score enough points and stop won't stop enough teams from scoring to contend in the Big 10.
Indiana made it to the 2007 Insight Bowl, their first bowl game since 1993. This year they went right back to the conference basement and appear to be staying there next year. Most of their good players won't be back.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Big 10 Personnel Losses
Here's a breakdown of the important players graduating and turning pro early:
QB-quarterback RB-running back WR-wide receiver TE-tight end LT-left tackle LG-left guard C-center RG-right guard RT-right tackle DE-defensive end DT-defensive tackle NT-nose tackle SLB-strong side linebacker WLB-weak side linebacker MLB-middle linebacker CB-cornerback SS-strong safety FS-free safety K-kicker P-punter KR-kick returner PR-punt returner
Penn State: OFFENSE: LG Rich Ohrnberger C A.Q. Shipley WR Derrick Williams WR Deon Butler WR Jordan Norwood DEFENSE: SS Anthony Scirrotto SPECIAL TEAMS: K Kevin Kelly KR/PR Derrick Williams
Penn State's ground game takes center stage with the losses of their top three wideouts. Special teams has large holes without four year kicker Kevin Kelly and explosive returner Derrick Williams.
Ohio State: OFFENSE: LT Alex Boone LG Steve Rhering RG Ben Person WR Brian Robiskie TE Rory Nicol RB Chris "Beanie" Wells DEFENSE: WLB Marcus Freeman MLB James Laurinitis SLB Curtis Terry CB Malcom Jenkins SPECIAL TEAMS: K Ryan Pretorious P A.J. Treppaso
Ohio State might lose the most key players in the Big 10. The pressure will be on Terrelle Pryor to improve the passing game.
Michigan State: OFFENSE: QB Brian Hoyer RB Javon Ringer DEFENSE: CB Kendell Davis-Clark SS Otis Wiley SPECIAL TEAMS: None
A huge loss in Ringer. The Spartans need to find a running game if they expect to be an upper echelon Big 10 team next year.
Iowa: TE Tony Moeaki WR Andy Brodell RB Shonn Greene DEFENSE: DT Matt Croul DT Mitch King SPECIAL TEAMS: None
The biggest single departure in the whole conference in Shonn Greene. How is Iowa going to score next year? They must find replacements for the two stud defensive tackles.
Northwestern: OFFENSE: QB C. J. Bacher WR Eric Peterman WR Ross Lane WR Rasheed Ward RB Tyrell Sutton DEFENSE: DT John Gill DE Kevin Mims SLB Prince Kwateng MLB Malcom Arrington SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Northwestern loses a ton at the skill positions, and running back is the biggest question mark for next year. The defensive line and seconadary should be very good but they need to finds some linebackers.
Wisconsin: OFFENSE: LG Andy Kemp RG Kraig Uribik TE Travis Beckum RB P.J. Hill DEFENSE: DT Mike Newkirk DT Jason Chapmon DE Matt Shaughnessy SLB DeAndre Levy WLB Jonathon Casillas CB Allen Langford SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Wisconsin needs to replace Kemp and Uribik to open running holes for Zack Brown and John Clay. Replacements are needed everywhere on defense, especially the line.
Minnesota: OFFENSE: TE Jack Simmons DEFENSE: DE Willie VanDeSteeg SPECIAL TEAMS: K Joel Monroe P Justin Kucek
The Gophers must find a replacement for their best defender, Willie VanDeSteeg, on an already poor defense. Replacements at kicker and punter are also needed. They are probably taking the fewest losses of anyone in the conference.
Illinois: OFFENSE: LT Xavier Fulton C Ryan McDonald DEFENSE: DE Will Davis DT David Lindquist DE Derek Walker MLB Brit Miller CB Vontae Davis SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Offensively the skill positions are loaded and only two lineman must be replaced. Defense is the key. The Illini defense was poor and it's best players are gone.
Purdue: OFFENSE: QB Curtis Painter WR Greg Orton WR Desmond Tardy RB Kory Sheets DEFENSE: SLB Anthony Heygood SPECIAL TEAMS: KR/PR Desmond Tardy
The skill positions on offense are the main concern here. Purdue must develop a rhythm in the passing game if their going to have any chance of getting better next year.
Michigan: OFFENSE: None DEFENSE: DE Tim Jamison NT Terrance Taylor SLB Austin Panter CB Morgan Trent SS Brandon Harrison SPECIAL TEAMS: K K.C. Lopata
The defense has major holes to fill, especially on the line. Rich Rod's supposed big time recruiting skills better get the Wolverines some defensive help, or 2009 could be another long year in Ann Arbor.
Indiana: OFFENSE: RB Marcus Thigpen DEFENSE: DE Greg Middleton SPECIAL TEAMS: K Austin Starr KR Marcus Thigpen
Indiana doesn't have too many good players but the ones they do have are leaving. The passing game will be more of an emphasis without Thigpen.
QB-quarterback RB-running back WR-wide receiver TE-tight end LT-left tackle LG-left guard C-center RG-right guard RT-right tackle DE-defensive end DT-defensive tackle NT-nose tackle SLB-strong side linebacker WLB-weak side linebacker MLB-middle linebacker CB-cornerback SS-strong safety FS-free safety K-kicker P-punter KR-kick returner PR-punt returner
Penn State: OFFENSE: LG Rich Ohrnberger C A.Q. Shipley WR Derrick Williams WR Deon Butler WR Jordan Norwood DEFENSE: SS Anthony Scirrotto SPECIAL TEAMS: K Kevin Kelly KR/PR Derrick Williams
Penn State's ground game takes center stage with the losses of their top three wideouts. Special teams has large holes without four year kicker Kevin Kelly and explosive returner Derrick Williams.
Ohio State: OFFENSE: LT Alex Boone LG Steve Rhering RG Ben Person WR Brian Robiskie TE Rory Nicol RB Chris "Beanie" Wells DEFENSE: WLB Marcus Freeman MLB James Laurinitis SLB Curtis Terry CB Malcom Jenkins SPECIAL TEAMS: K Ryan Pretorious P A.J. Treppaso
Ohio State might lose the most key players in the Big 10. The pressure will be on Terrelle Pryor to improve the passing game.
Michigan State: OFFENSE: QB Brian Hoyer RB Javon Ringer DEFENSE: CB Kendell Davis-Clark SS Otis Wiley SPECIAL TEAMS: None
A huge loss in Ringer. The Spartans need to find a running game if they expect to be an upper echelon Big 10 team next year.
Iowa: TE Tony Moeaki WR Andy Brodell RB Shonn Greene DEFENSE: DT Matt Croul DT Mitch King SPECIAL TEAMS: None
The biggest single departure in the whole conference in Shonn Greene. How is Iowa going to score next year? They must find replacements for the two stud defensive tackles.
Northwestern: OFFENSE: QB C. J. Bacher WR Eric Peterman WR Ross Lane WR Rasheed Ward RB Tyrell Sutton DEFENSE: DT John Gill DE Kevin Mims SLB Prince Kwateng MLB Malcom Arrington SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Northwestern loses a ton at the skill positions, and running back is the biggest question mark for next year. The defensive line and seconadary should be very good but they need to finds some linebackers.
Wisconsin: OFFENSE: LG Andy Kemp RG Kraig Uribik TE Travis Beckum RB P.J. Hill DEFENSE: DT Mike Newkirk DT Jason Chapmon DE Matt Shaughnessy SLB DeAndre Levy WLB Jonathon Casillas CB Allen Langford SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Wisconsin needs to replace Kemp and Uribik to open running holes for Zack Brown and John Clay. Replacements are needed everywhere on defense, especially the line.
Minnesota: OFFENSE: TE Jack Simmons DEFENSE: DE Willie VanDeSteeg SPECIAL TEAMS: K Joel Monroe P Justin Kucek
The Gophers must find a replacement for their best defender, Willie VanDeSteeg, on an already poor defense. Replacements at kicker and punter are also needed. They are probably taking the fewest losses of anyone in the conference.
Illinois: OFFENSE: LT Xavier Fulton C Ryan McDonald DEFENSE: DE Will Davis DT David Lindquist DE Derek Walker MLB Brit Miller CB Vontae Davis SPECIAL TEAMS: None
Offensively the skill positions are loaded and only two lineman must be replaced. Defense is the key. The Illini defense was poor and it's best players are gone.
Purdue: OFFENSE: QB Curtis Painter WR Greg Orton WR Desmond Tardy RB Kory Sheets DEFENSE: SLB Anthony Heygood SPECIAL TEAMS: KR/PR Desmond Tardy
The skill positions on offense are the main concern here. Purdue must develop a rhythm in the passing game if their going to have any chance of getting better next year.
Michigan: OFFENSE: None DEFENSE: DE Tim Jamison NT Terrance Taylor SLB Austin Panter CB Morgan Trent SS Brandon Harrison SPECIAL TEAMS: K K.C. Lopata
The defense has major holes to fill, especially on the line. Rich Rod's supposed big time recruiting skills better get the Wolverines some defensive help, or 2009 could be another long year in Ann Arbor.
Indiana: OFFENSE: RB Marcus Thigpen DEFENSE: DE Greg Middleton SPECIAL TEAMS: K Austin Starr KR Marcus Thigpen
Indiana doesn't have too many good players but the ones they do have are leaving. The passing game will be more of an emphasis without Thigpen.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Big 10 Bowl Wrap
The Big 10 got two teams in BCS games for the fourth straight year and got pummeled again. After Ohio State's loss to Texas, the Big 10 finishes the bowl season with a 1-6 record. Here's a look at the games:
Insight Bowl: Kansas 42 Minnesota 21-Todd Reesing picked apart the Gophers secondary and Adam Weber and the Gophers offense couldn't keep up. After a promising 7-1 start, the Gophers lost their last five games and gave up 97 combined points against Iowa and Kansas.
Champs Sports Bowl: Florida State 42 Wisconsin 13-A disappointing season for Wisconsin ended with a frustrating loss to the Seminoles. Wisconsin started the season with legitamite BCS aspirations but couldn't find consistent quarterback play. The Badgers did some good things here with P.J. Hill running for 140 yards and the defense holding Florida State to 3.5 yards per carry. But two long Florida State fumble returns for touchdowns doomed the Badgers. Bret Bielma will be under pressure for better results next year. First step: get a quarterback.
Alamo Bowl: Missouri 30 Northwestern 23 (OT)-Possibly the Big Ten's best bowl showing, besides Iowa, in a bowl that Missouri was favored by 12 1/2, more than any other bowl game. Northwestern was the better team throughout the game and should have won. A Jeremy Maclin punt return for a touchdown late in the first half was a huge swing of momentum for a Missouri offense that had only mustered three points. Northwestern kicker Armando Villarreal missed an extra point and a field goal. These special teams miscues killed the Wildcats and the game went to overtime. Missouri started with a touchdown and Northwestern couldn't answer. Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a successful nine win season and a solid bowl game. The Wildcats have enough of their defense returning to go bowling next year.
Outack Bowl: Iowa 31 South Carlina 10-Iowa throughly dominated South Carolina as Shonn Greene racked up 121 yards and 3 touchdowns. Iowa led 31-0 before South Carolina got on the board in the fourth quarter. The Hawkeyes finished the season winning six of their last seven games and their four losses this season were by a combined 12 points. Shonn Greene will go to the NFL but Iowa's program is on solid gound after three sub par seasons.
Capital One Bowl: Georgia 24 Michigan State 12-The Spartans were competetive but Matthew Stafford was the difference in this game. The future first round NFL draft pick threw three perfect touchdown passes in the second. Sparty was up 6-3 at halftime, but Georgia stuffed Javon Ringer for 47 yards on 20 carries and that was it for Michigan State's offense. The Michigan State defense held Georgia star running back Knowshon Moreno to 62 yards on 23 carries, but Stafford made the the big throws and Brian Hoyer didn't. Despite a tough bowl loss, it was still a successfull season for the Spartans. Mark Dantonio has this program on solid ground and Michigan State should be in the bowl picture next year.
Fiesta Bowl: Texas 24 Ohio State 21-Another tough bowl loss for the the Big Ten. Much like in the Capital One Bowl, the opposing conference's quarterback was the difference. Colt McCoy led Texas on a game winning drive with under two minutes to play capped off by a Quan Cosby sixteen yard touchdown catch . While Terrelle Pryor had a good game with his running, receiving and mediocre throwing, Colt McCoy looked like the Heisman finalist he was. He and wide receiver Quan Cosby light up the veteran Buckeye secondary. Ohio State is always good but must replace running back Chris "Beanie" Wells and several standout defenders who will be playing on sundays next year. The USC game in september will give us an early indication of where the Buckeyes are.
Rose Bowl: USC 38 Penn State 24-The final score makes the game look closer than it was as USC led 31-7 at halftime. The Nittany Lions held USC's ground game in check but the airways were clear. Mark Sanchez threw for 414 yards and four touchdowns, 165 of them and one touchdown to Damian Williams. Penn State started putting up points in the fourth quarter when it was too late. USC easily handled the two best teams the Big Ten has to offer this year and has contributed to the Big Ten's sagging repuation. Hey, I've got an idea, we should with the ACC so we can play in the Orange Bowl against the Big East winner. Then we might actually win a BCS bowl game. Penn State will lose their widouts but Darryl Clark and Evan Royster's return make them a threat in the Big 10 next year.
Insight Bowl: Kansas 42 Minnesota 21-Todd Reesing picked apart the Gophers secondary and Adam Weber and the Gophers offense couldn't keep up. After a promising 7-1 start, the Gophers lost their last five games and gave up 97 combined points against Iowa and Kansas.
Champs Sports Bowl: Florida State 42 Wisconsin 13-A disappointing season for Wisconsin ended with a frustrating loss to the Seminoles. Wisconsin started the season with legitamite BCS aspirations but couldn't find consistent quarterback play. The Badgers did some good things here with P.J. Hill running for 140 yards and the defense holding Florida State to 3.5 yards per carry. But two long Florida State fumble returns for touchdowns doomed the Badgers. Bret Bielma will be under pressure for better results next year. First step: get a quarterback.
Alamo Bowl: Missouri 30 Northwestern 23 (OT)-Possibly the Big Ten's best bowl showing, besides Iowa, in a bowl that Missouri was favored by 12 1/2, more than any other bowl game. Northwestern was the better team throughout the game and should have won. A Jeremy Maclin punt return for a touchdown late in the first half was a huge swing of momentum for a Missouri offense that had only mustered three points. Northwestern kicker Armando Villarreal missed an extra point and a field goal. These special teams miscues killed the Wildcats and the game went to overtime. Missouri started with a touchdown and Northwestern couldn't answer. Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a successful nine win season and a solid bowl game. The Wildcats have enough of their defense returning to go bowling next year.
Outack Bowl: Iowa 31 South Carlina 10-Iowa throughly dominated South Carolina as Shonn Greene racked up 121 yards and 3 touchdowns. Iowa led 31-0 before South Carolina got on the board in the fourth quarter. The Hawkeyes finished the season winning six of their last seven games and their four losses this season were by a combined 12 points. Shonn Greene will go to the NFL but Iowa's program is on solid gound after three sub par seasons.
Capital One Bowl: Georgia 24 Michigan State 12-The Spartans were competetive but Matthew Stafford was the difference in this game. The future first round NFL draft pick threw three perfect touchdown passes in the second. Sparty was up 6-3 at halftime, but Georgia stuffed Javon Ringer for 47 yards on 20 carries and that was it for Michigan State's offense. The Michigan State defense held Georgia star running back Knowshon Moreno to 62 yards on 23 carries, but Stafford made the the big throws and Brian Hoyer didn't. Despite a tough bowl loss, it was still a successfull season for the Spartans. Mark Dantonio has this program on solid ground and Michigan State should be in the bowl picture next year.
Fiesta Bowl: Texas 24 Ohio State 21-Another tough bowl loss for the the Big Ten. Much like in the Capital One Bowl, the opposing conference's quarterback was the difference. Colt McCoy led Texas on a game winning drive with under two minutes to play capped off by a Quan Cosby sixteen yard touchdown catch . While Terrelle Pryor had a good game with his running, receiving and mediocre throwing, Colt McCoy looked like the Heisman finalist he was. He and wide receiver Quan Cosby light up the veteran Buckeye secondary. Ohio State is always good but must replace running back Chris "Beanie" Wells and several standout defenders who will be playing on sundays next year. The USC game in september will give us an early indication of where the Buckeyes are.
Rose Bowl: USC 38 Penn State 24-The final score makes the game look closer than it was as USC led 31-7 at halftime. The Nittany Lions held USC's ground game in check but the airways were clear. Mark Sanchez threw for 414 yards and four touchdowns, 165 of them and one touchdown to Damian Williams. Penn State started putting up points in the fourth quarter when it was too late. USC easily handled the two best teams the Big Ten has to offer this year and has contributed to the Big Ten's sagging repuation. Hey, I've got an idea, we should with the ACC so we can play in the Orange Bowl against the Big East winner. Then we might actually win a BCS bowl game. Penn State will lose their widouts but Darryl Clark and Evan Royster's return make them a threat in the Big 10 next year.
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