Big Ten: Illinois Fighting Illini
The league meetings in Chicago and playoffs (cue Jim Mora clip) dominate your hump day links:
- The Big Ten's love of the Rose Bowl is making it act irrationally and against the league's best interests, Dan Wetzel writes.
- There's no guarantee on how that Rose Bowl relationship will continue.
- The Big Ten won't be able to use geography as an excuse for bowl performance in the future, Drew Sharp says.
- The league is pushing for a seven-win minimum to make a bowl game even though that may hurt some of its own teams.
- A selection committee is the best way to go to pick playoff teams, Andy Staples writes.
- Illinois athletic director Mike Thomas envisions playing a game in Chicago every other year.
- Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis said he would welcome a night game against Michigan.
- Indiana AD Fred Glass says his athletic program is self-sustaining (subscription required).
- Brady Hoke talked about the need for leadership from his seniors during a speech to fans. Michigan missed out on Ty Isaac but has other options at running back.
- Athlon ranks Nebraska No. 14 and previews its season, while asking if Taylor Martinez is one of the league's top quarterbacks. A 92-yard romp through Yankee Stadium makes the list of most memorable Huskers touchdowns.
- Curt Warner's son hopes to follow in dad's footsteps at Penn State. Bill O'Brien will adjust his offense to fit his current players. Quarterbacks coach Charlie Fisher says Matt McGloin leads in the QB race.
- Purdue's Otis Armstrong once heard he was too small to be a running back. Now, he's headed to the College Football Hall of Fame.
- Ohio State AD Gene Smith said the tattoo scandal hurt him and his family.
- Former Wisconsin athletic director Pat Richter earned an honor. Wisconsin spent about $44,000 investigating sexual impropriety allegations against former athletics administrator John Chadima.
- Maize N Brew asks what will be good enough for Minnesota.
Here are your lunchtime -- wait for it -- links.
- Playoffs are on the minds of Big Ten leaders as they gather in Chicago today.
- Penn State coach Bill O'Brien says he'd like to play Pitt on an annual basis, but the schedule may not allow it to happen. A decision on the Lions' starting quarterback should be coming soon. Penn State has gone to great lengths to help restore its reputation.
- Michigan receiver Jerald Robinson had his hearing on a misdemeanor charge postponed. A one-time Wolverines recruiting target says Michigan doesn't pressure prospects into committing. Tate Forcier signed with a CFL team.
- Le'Veon Bell is earning some high praise at Michigan State.
- Purdue athletic director Morgan Burke wants to preserve the Rose Bowl tradition.
- Concussions caused Ohio State's Andrew Sweat to walk away from football. Tom Dienhart analyzes the Buckeyes' schedule.
- Indiana's Kevin Wilson won't follow Tom Crean's lead and start recruiting eight- or ninth-graders.
- Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald was asked about the debate over compensating players in a talk with students.
- Versatility will be key as former Gopher fullback Jon Hoese tries to make the Green Bay Packers.
- An Ohio linebacker has taken notice of Illinois and Tim Beckman.
- The married life suits Bret Bielema just fine.
- Kirk Ferentz went on the road to talk about what's happening with Iowa football.
- Nebraska's nutritionist talks about how to feed a bunch of hungry Huskers. The Lincoln Journal Star's countdown of the Cornhuskers' top 100 most memorable touchdowns takes a look at the beginning of the Triplets.
This isn't exactly surprising news, but Big Ten schools are among the biggest spenders -- and earners -- in all of college athletics, according to a new database compiled by USA Today.
The newspaper collected the expenses and revenues for Division I athletic programs in 2010-2011, the most recent year for which public schools' filings with the NCAA were available. The study showed that everything is bigger in Texas, including sports spending; the Longhorns outpaced every other school with a $133.7 million budget and more than $150 million in revenue.
But Big Ten schools also ranked high among the biggest spenders, with seven teams in the top 16 nationally. Here is how they stacked up nationally in operating expenses:
2. Ohio State: $122.3 million
3. Michigan: $111.8 million
6. Penn State: $101.3 million
9. Wisconsin: $95.6 million
12. Iowa: $93.4 million
14. Michigan State: $84.5 million
16. Nebraska: $83.7 million
22. Minnesota: $78.9 million
26. Illinois: $77.7 million
29. Indiana: $71 million
41. Purdue: $66.2 million
(Note: Information for Northwestern, which is a private school, was not available).
Only the SEC -- another surprise, right? -- has more big spenders than the Big Ten, with eight schools reporting more than $80 million in expenses
The USA Today report also said that only 22 athletic programs turned a profit in 2010-11, but 10 of the 11 Big Ten schools surveyed were in the black, while Minnesota broke even (Thanks, Big Ten Network). Penn State had the biggest profit, at nearly $15 million, while Michigan and Ohio State each reported revenue of about $11 million more than their expenses.
Another interesting part of the report is how much subsidy each athletic program receives from its school, in the form of student fees and other university support. Four Big Ten athletic programs -- Ohio State, Nebraska, Penn State and Purdue -- receive no school subsidy, something only seven Division I programs can claim. Meanwhile, Michigan ($272,000) and Iowa ($564,000) get less than a million, ranking in the bottom 10 nationally for subsidy support.
Here's a look at the subsidies other league programs receive:
Minnesota: $7.8 million in subsidies (9.9 percent of total operating budget)
Wisconsin: $7.2 million (7.5 percent)
Illinois: $4 million (5.1 percent)
Michigan State: $3.7 million (4.3 percent)
Indiana: $2.7 million (3.8 percent)
The USA Today report paints a picture of the haves and have-nots in college athletics and even suggests that the wild disparity between the upper echelon and the bottom schools could lead to a split in college football.
But while many schools' athletic programs are struggling to make ends meet or need vast support from their universities to keep the lights on, the Big Ten looks extremely healthy in its finances.
The newspaper collected the expenses and revenues for Division I athletic programs in 2010-2011, the most recent year for which public schools' filings with the NCAA were available. The study showed that everything is bigger in Texas, including sports spending; the Longhorns outpaced every other school with a $133.7 million budget and more than $150 million in revenue.
But Big Ten schools also ranked high among the biggest spenders, with seven teams in the top 16 nationally. Here is how they stacked up nationally in operating expenses:
2. Ohio State: $122.3 million
3. Michigan: $111.8 million
6. Penn State: $101.3 million
9. Wisconsin: $95.6 million
12. Iowa: $93.4 million
14. Michigan State: $84.5 million
16. Nebraska: $83.7 million
22. Minnesota: $78.9 million
26. Illinois: $77.7 million
29. Indiana: $71 million
41. Purdue: $66.2 million
(Note: Information for Northwestern, which is a private school, was not available).
Only the SEC -- another surprise, right? -- has more big spenders than the Big Ten, with eight schools reporting more than $80 million in expenses
The USA Today report also said that only 22 athletic programs turned a profit in 2010-11, but 10 of the 11 Big Ten schools surveyed were in the black, while Minnesota broke even (Thanks, Big Ten Network). Penn State had the biggest profit, at nearly $15 million, while Michigan and Ohio State each reported revenue of about $11 million more than their expenses.
Another interesting part of the report is how much subsidy each athletic program receives from its school, in the form of student fees and other university support. Four Big Ten athletic programs -- Ohio State, Nebraska, Penn State and Purdue -- receive no school subsidy, something only seven Division I programs can claim. Meanwhile, Michigan ($272,000) and Iowa ($564,000) get less than a million, ranking in the bottom 10 nationally for subsidy support.
Here's a look at the subsidies other league programs receive:
Minnesota: $7.8 million in subsidies (9.9 percent of total operating budget)
Wisconsin: $7.2 million (7.5 percent)
Illinois: $4 million (5.1 percent)
Michigan State: $3.7 million (4.3 percent)
Indiana: $2.7 million (3.8 percent)
The USA Today report paints a picture of the haves and have-nots in college athletics and even suggests that the wild disparity between the upper echelon and the bottom schools could lead to a split in college football.
But while many schools' athletic programs are struggling to make ends meet or need vast support from their universities to keep the lights on, the Big Ten looks extremely healthy in its finances.
E-mail exchange: Leaders spring wrap-up
May, 14, 2012
May 14
3:45
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett and
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
During the course of spring practice, Big Ten bloggers Adam Rittenberg and Brian Bennett visited 11 of the 12 league schools, getting an up-close look at the players and coaches who will shape the 2012 season.
Now it's time for them to share their thoughts on what they saw and learned this spring, and you can follow along as they exchange e-mails. First, they'll discuss the teams in the Leaders Division. A Legends Division e-mail exchange will arrive in the near future.
Brian Bennett: Adam, I guess the biggest story in the Big Ten this spring was the culture change at both Penn State and Ohio State. You went to both places. What was your sense of how different things are there now, compared to your previous visits to State College and Columbus?
Adam Rittenberg: There's definitely a new energy in both football complexes, Brian. Change can be tough on fans, especially at a place like Penn State where they've only known their program under Joe Paterno's watch, but the players seem to be excited about the new ways things are operating. At Penn State, they're excited to play for a coach (Bill O'Brien) who comes straight from the NFL and has made some much-needed modernizations to certain areas of the program (strength program, offensive philosophy). The enthusiasm about strength and conditioning coach Craig Fitzgerald and his philosophy really stood out to me at Penn State. I was also impressed by some of the younger players like freshman tight end Jesse James and redshirt freshman defensive end Deion Barnes.
The changes aren't as dramatic at Ohio State because Urban Meyer retained so many assistants from the previous staff. On the other hand, the thought of Ohio State running a true no-huddle, spread offense amazes players as much as it does the rest of us after so many years of TresselBall. One welcome change with both programs is greater accessibility for the media (and, through us, the fans). I had to pinch myself a few times while watching a Penn State practice.
You made your first visit to Madison, where, judging by the pictures you posted on Twitter, you likely gained 15 pounds and lost that Kentucky twang. What stood out about your time in Mad-city?
Brian Bennett: I'm just now shedding the last of those cheese curds from my system. Change was not really a buzzword with the Badgers, even with a slew of new assistant coaches and some turnover at key positions. This program has a system it believes in and will continue to do the same things year in, year out with new faces.
Wisconsin is still all about running the ball, and Montee Ball looked terrific during the practice he participated in while I was there. If possible, he's even a step faster, and backup Melvin Gordon is going to be a star someday as well. The quarterbacks and receivers weren't nearly as impressive or consistent, but Danny O'Brien wasn't there and Jared Abbrederis was out with his foot injury. I am intrigued by the size of some of the Badgers wideouts, like Marquis Mason (6-foot-4) and Chase Hammond (6-5). The Badgers could be effective throwing some jump balls to those guys, and with their tight ends and offensive line, their offense is going to be just fine.
There are more questions on the defense, but I liked what I saw from the defensive tackles and the secondary, which looks a little more athletic. We know the linebackers will be good with Chris Borland and Mike Taylor. If David Gilbert or someone else can come back and give them a pass rusher from the defensive end spot, this team should be loaded for a run at repeating in the Leaders Division.
I see Illinois as a bit of a mystery team in the division, with a new coach and a new system. How much progress did the Illini make in learning the spread under Tim Beckman, and do they have enough offensive playmakers to run it?
Adam Rittenberg: I don't think they do, although running back Josh Ferguson's performance in the spring game raises hope. Illinois also has some versatile players in cornerback Terry Hawthorne and quarterback Miles Osei who can fill in at receiver and/or running back if need be. But Beckman has been candid about the lack of depth at running back, and we both saw how that offense fared after opposing teams limited A.J. Jenkins' effectiveness. I do think quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase could end up being a good fit for the spread. He obviously has the mobility you need at that position, and while his arm strength is a question mark, he should be able to spread the ball around if enough weapons emerge. I think it's critical for receiver Darius Millines to stay healthy. He really had stood out in practices, but he just can't stay on the field.
I liked what co-offensive coordinator Chris Beatty said about the offense needing to regain its swagger. It's still hard to pinpoint exactly what happened to the unit last year, but I know when a spread offense establishes a nice tempo, it's awfully hard to stop. But here's the thing with Illinois: it might only need to score 20-24 points a game. The defense should be really, really good, and potentially better than last year's crew. The coaches are really excited about Michael Buchanan at end, and the front seven could be the best in the Big Ten.
You also spent some time in the Hoosier State this spring. Purdue coach Danny Hope feels this is his best team. Things couldn't get much worse for Kevin Wilson at Indiana after a 1-11 clunker in 2011. What sense did you get from being in West Lafayette and Bloomington?
Brian Bennett: I sensed quite a bit of confidence coming out of Purdue's camp. That will happen when you have 18 starters back, three healthy quarterbacks and are coming off a bowl win (granted, only against Western Michigan, but it beats the alternative).
The Boilermakers didn't let reporters watch any meaningful parts of spring practice because they're installing Tim Tibesar's new defensive system, so I didn't learn as much about them as I'd like. Still, it's clear this team has experience and some major talent with guys like Kawann Short and Ricardo Allen on defense. I think Purdue is very much a sleeper in the division, though we're going to need to see this team cut down some of its mental mistakes and play with far greater consistency than it has in the Danny Hope era.
The best thing I saw from Indiana was competency on defense. Wilson played so many freshmen last year, and the benefit is that those guys are now a year older and know the system. They were able to execute it much better this spring, and the juco kids will help a lot. The Hoosiers have some nice players on offense, like young quarterback Tre Roberson, running backs Stephen Houston and Isaiah Roundtree and tight end Ted Bolser, and I think Seth Littrell's system will play well to their strengths. Yet you look at the roster and compare it to the upper echelon of the Big Ten, and it's clear that Indiana has a long way to go to catch up and be any sort of factor in the league race.
I came away from the spring still thinking Wisconsin will win this division, but I also believe it will be a tight race and that Penn State could very well take it. Ohio State might end up being the best team in the Leaders but can't play for the league title. Did your spring visits make you feel any differently about the division?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree that Wisconsin remains the team to beat, but I came away thinking the division could have greater depth. The Legends still looks stronger with Michigan State, Michigan and Nebraska up top, and every Leaders Division team has some flaws. But Wisconsin knows how to win, returns a nice core and added a key piece in O'Brien. Ohio State will be a better defensive football team -- end John Simon is poised for an enormous senior season, and hopes are high for tackle Johnathan Hankins, too -- and while there will be some growing pains on offense, it's not as if the Buckeyes set an impressive benchmark in 2011. They were mostly awful.
Penn State and Illinois are very similar teams to me. Both have new coaches whose hiring elicited some skepticism. Both look extremely strong in the defensive front seven. Both retained excellent D-line coaches from the previous staff (Larry Johnson, Keith Gilmore). Both have standout linebackers (Gerald Hodges, Jonathan Brown) and stout defensive tackles (Jordan Hill, Akeem Spence). And both have major question marks on offense: Penn State more so at quarterback, Illinois more so at running back/receiver. Still, if the defenses perform to their capability, Penn State and/or Illinois could really make some noise in a wide-open division.
Now it's time for them to share their thoughts on what they saw and learned this spring, and you can follow along as they exchange e-mails. First, they'll discuss the teams in the Leaders Division. A Legends Division e-mail exchange will arrive in the near future.
Brian Bennett: Adam, I guess the biggest story in the Big Ten this spring was the culture change at both Penn State and Ohio State. You went to both places. What was your sense of how different things are there now, compared to your previous visits to State College and Columbus?
Adam Rittenberg: There's definitely a new energy in both football complexes, Brian. Change can be tough on fans, especially at a place like Penn State where they've only known their program under Joe Paterno's watch, but the players seem to be excited about the new ways things are operating. At Penn State, they're excited to play for a coach (Bill O'Brien) who comes straight from the NFL and has made some much-needed modernizations to certain areas of the program (strength program, offensive philosophy). The enthusiasm about strength and conditioning coach Craig Fitzgerald and his philosophy really stood out to me at Penn State. I was also impressed by some of the younger players like freshman tight end Jesse James and redshirt freshman defensive end Deion Barnes.
[+] Enlarge
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWisconsin is one of the teams to beat in the Big Ten, thanks in part to running back Montee Ball returning for another season.
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesWisconsin is one of the teams to beat in the Big Ten, thanks in part to running back Montee Ball returning for another season.You made your first visit to Madison, where, judging by the pictures you posted on Twitter, you likely gained 15 pounds and lost that Kentucky twang. What stood out about your time in Mad-city?
Brian Bennett: I'm just now shedding the last of those cheese curds from my system. Change was not really a buzzword with the Badgers, even with a slew of new assistant coaches and some turnover at key positions. This program has a system it believes in and will continue to do the same things year in, year out with new faces.
Wisconsin is still all about running the ball, and Montee Ball looked terrific during the practice he participated in while I was there. If possible, he's even a step faster, and backup Melvin Gordon is going to be a star someday as well. The quarterbacks and receivers weren't nearly as impressive or consistent, but Danny O'Brien wasn't there and Jared Abbrederis was out with his foot injury. I am intrigued by the size of some of the Badgers wideouts, like Marquis Mason (6-foot-4) and Chase Hammond (6-5). The Badgers could be effective throwing some jump balls to those guys, and with their tight ends and offensive line, their offense is going to be just fine.
There are more questions on the defense, but I liked what I saw from the defensive tackles and the secondary, which looks a little more athletic. We know the linebackers will be good with Chris Borland and Mike Taylor. If David Gilbert or someone else can come back and give them a pass rusher from the defensive end spot, this team should be loaded for a run at repeating in the Leaders Division.
I see Illinois as a bit of a mystery team in the division, with a new coach and a new system. How much progress did the Illini make in learning the spread under Tim Beckman, and do they have enough offensive playmakers to run it?
Adam Rittenberg: I don't think they do, although running back Josh Ferguson's performance in the spring game raises hope. Illinois also has some versatile players in cornerback Terry Hawthorne and quarterback Miles Osei who can fill in at receiver and/or running back if need be. But Beckman has been candid about the lack of depth at running back, and we both saw how that offense fared after opposing teams limited A.J. Jenkins' effectiveness. I do think quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase could end up being a good fit for the spread. He obviously has the mobility you need at that position, and while his arm strength is a question mark, he should be able to spread the ball around if enough weapons emerge. I think it's critical for receiver Darius Millines to stay healthy. He really had stood out in practices, but he just can't stay on the field.
I liked what co-offensive coordinator Chris Beatty said about the offense needing to regain its swagger. It's still hard to pinpoint exactly what happened to the unit last year, but I know when a spread offense establishes a nice tempo, it's awfully hard to stop. But here's the thing with Illinois: it might only need to score 20-24 points a game. The defense should be really, really good, and potentially better than last year's crew. The coaches are really excited about Michael Buchanan at end, and the front seven could be the best in the Big Ten.
You also spent some time in the Hoosier State this spring. Purdue coach Danny Hope feels this is his best team. Things couldn't get much worse for Kevin Wilson at Indiana after a 1-11 clunker in 2011. What sense did you get from being in West Lafayette and Bloomington?
Brian Bennett: I sensed quite a bit of confidence coming out of Purdue's camp. That will happen when you have 18 starters back, three healthy quarterbacks and are coming off a bowl win (granted, only against Western Michigan, but it beats the alternative).
The Boilermakers didn't let reporters watch any meaningful parts of spring practice because they're installing Tim Tibesar's new defensive system, so I didn't learn as much about them as I'd like. Still, it's clear this team has experience and some major talent with guys like Kawann Short and Ricardo Allen on defense. I think Purdue is very much a sleeper in the division, though we're going to need to see this team cut down some of its mental mistakes and play with far greater consistency than it has in the Danny Hope era.
The best thing I saw from Indiana was competency on defense. Wilson played so many freshmen last year, and the benefit is that those guys are now a year older and know the system. They were able to execute it much better this spring, and the juco kids will help a lot. The Hoosiers have some nice players on offense, like young quarterback Tre Roberson, running backs Stephen Houston and Isaiah Roundtree and tight end Ted Bolser, and I think Seth Littrell's system will play well to their strengths. Yet you look at the roster and compare it to the upper echelon of the Big Ten, and it's clear that Indiana has a long way to go to catch up and be any sort of factor in the league race.
I came away from the spring still thinking Wisconsin will win this division, but I also believe it will be a tight race and that Penn State could very well take it. Ohio State might end up being the best team in the Leaders but can't play for the league title. Did your spring visits make you feel any differently about the division?
Adam Rittenberg: I agree that Wisconsin remains the team to beat, but I came away thinking the division could have greater depth. The Legends still looks stronger with Michigan State, Michigan and Nebraska up top, and every Leaders Division team has some flaws. But Wisconsin knows how to win, returns a nice core and added a key piece in O'Brien. Ohio State will be a better defensive football team -- end John Simon is poised for an enormous senior season, and hopes are high for tackle Johnathan Hankins, too -- and while there will be some growing pains on offense, it's not as if the Buckeyes set an impressive benchmark in 2011. They were mostly awful.
Penn State and Illinois are very similar teams to me. Both have new coaches whose hiring elicited some skepticism. Both look extremely strong in the defensive front seven. Both retained excellent D-line coaches from the previous staff (Larry Johnson, Keith Gilmore). Both have standout linebackers (Gerald Hodges, Jonathan Brown) and stout defensive tackles (Jordan Hill, Akeem Spence). And both have major question marks on offense: Penn State more so at quarterback, Illinois more so at running back/receiver. Still, if the defenses perform to their capability, Penn State and/or Illinois could really make some noise in a wide-open division.
B1G players compete in track championship
May, 14, 2012
May 14
12:45
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
There are football guys, and there are track guys. It takes more than just speed to be good at football, which is why some coaches will dismissively call players "track guys."
But football guys sometimes give track a shot, too, like during this past weekend's Big Ten outdoor track and field championships in Madison, Wisc.
A few recognizable names from the league's gridiron competed in the event. Here's a look at how they did:
Doing well in one sport is hard enough. Congrats to these guys for succeeding in two.
But football guys sometimes give track a shot, too, like during this past weekend's Big Ten outdoor track and field championships in Madison, Wisc.
A few recognizable names from the league's gridiron competed in the event. Here's a look at how they did:
- Indiana wide receiver Nick Stoner was part of the 4X100 relay team that finished second and the 4X200 relay team that placed third. He was also 18th in the 200-meter dash prelims with a time of 21.61 seconds. Stoner played cornerback and wide receiver as a freshman for the Hoosiers last year but was known more for his special teams play.
- Ohio State's Devin Smith -- best known for catching the 40-yard touchdown pass to beat Wisconsin last season -- finished 12th in the high jump at 6 feet, nine inches. He was also 19th in the 100-meter dash prelims, with a time of 10.88 seconds. He could be a key part of the Buckeyes' offense this season.
- How versatile is Illinois' Ryan Lankford? He played wide receiver and punter last year to pull off that rare double. Lankford also finished 19th in the long jump, going 22 feet, seven inches.
- Kyle Jefferson, a former Wisconsin receiver, finished sixth in both the 200-meter and 400-meter dashes and was on the 4X400 relay team that placed second. That second-place finish clinched the overall men's title for the Badgers.
Doing well in one sport is hard enough. Congrats to these guys for succeeding in two.
Spring (practice) has sprung in the Big Ten. So let's look back and review the highlights:
Best debut by a player: Ohio State true freshman Michael Thomas introduced himself to Buckeyes fans with 12 catches for 131 yards in the spring game. No Buckeyes player had more than 14 catches all season in 2011. Don't expect Thomas to replicate that performance every week in the fall, and Ohio State was throwing the ball all over the place in its spring game. Still, for an offense that was desperately seeking playmakers to surround Braxton Miller, Thomas's performance was very encouraging.
Best debut by a coach: (Tie) Urban Meyer and Bill O'Brien. The new coaches at Ohio State and Penn State didn't take long to endear themselves to their constituents. Already wildly popular among Buckeyes fans, Meyer brought the team and the student body a little closer by inviting students to watch a practice, even allowing them on the field during a kicking drill. O'Brien made Penn State's practices more open to public scrutiny, and then went around the state and area to meet and greet fans on a caravan tour. No wonder that the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions ranked first and third nationally in spring game attendance.
Best debut by a mascot: Mark Dantonio livened up Michigan State's spring game by putting Sparty -- the school mascot -- in for a running play. Sparty hardly looked like a warrior, getting stuffed immediately on the play and then fumbling, but Dantonio bailed him out by ruling that the defense was offside. There was no more entertaining sequence in any spring game in the country than that one.
Best fill-in for a Heisman finalist: Wisconsin, like a lot of teams, saw no reason to put its star players at risk in the spring game. So 2011 Heisman Trophy finalist Montee Ball watched from the sidelines as redshirt freshman Melvin Gordon ran 30 times for 159 yards and a touchdown. Gordon is stuck behind Ball and James White, but head coach Bret Bielema told ESPN.com that Gordon "might have the most talent of any kid ever I've signed at that position."
Best overhyped position move: A massive fan base and closed spring practices combined to have Michigan fans rampantly speculating about backup quarterback Devin Gardner moving to receiver. A Facebook update supposedly confirmed the move -- until it was later revealed as a fake. Bottom line: Gardner spent some time working at wideout, but is a long way from being an impact player there. And he's still the backup quarterback.
Best spring break: It's hard to question Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez's desire to get better. When the Huskers let their players loose for spring break in the middle of their practice session, Martinez eschewed the beach or the ski slopes. Instead, he went to California to work on his footwork with quarterback instructor Steve Calhoun. The word around Lincoln this spring was that Martinez's fundamentals and passing were much improved. If that's the case this fall, Nebraska's offense should be awfully dangerous.
Best big score: Thanks to a modified scoring system, Northwestern defensive tackle Chance Carter earned 17 points for his team when he returned an interception 19 yards for a touchdown. "It should be a pick-17 every time -- especially for a defensive tackle," Carter later joked. The play by the defense and the front four in particular (four sacks, plus that pick) provided some optimism for a team that struggled to stop anybody last season.
Best Food Network Challenge: New Illinois coach Tim Beckman knows the way to his players' hearts is through their stomachs. Illini team members who missed team meetings were forced to eat porridge for breakfast this offseason, while those who met their requirements received steak and eggs. The same was true at the spring game, with the losing Orange squad getting a postgame meal of beans and weenies instead of the steaks for the victorious Blue squad. We'll see if this motivational technique makes Illinois hungry enough to contend for a Big Ten title this fall.
Best hair: Spring is a time for experimenting, and that includes hairdos. Purdue defensive end Ryan Russell dyed his hair bright red and cut it into a mohawk. He also tested out some other colors during the Boilermakers' spring practice. "It's just a spring thing," he said. "I might change it up and do something different for the season."
Best quote: Dantonio didn't mince words when ESPN.com asked him about the challenges Michigan might present in the future with the Wolverines' strong recruiting efforts. "We're laying in the weeds," he said. "We've beat Michigan the last four years. So where's the threat?" Michigan State fans loved the quote, while Michigan fans despised it. But the Spartans have earned bragging rights. They'll try to keep them when they visit the Big House on Oct. 20
Best debut by a player: Ohio State true freshman Michael Thomas introduced himself to Buckeyes fans with 12 catches for 131 yards in the spring game. No Buckeyes player had more than 14 catches all season in 2011. Don't expect Thomas to replicate that performance every week in the fall, and Ohio State was throwing the ball all over the place in its spring game. Still, for an offense that was desperately seeking playmakers to surround Braxton Miller, Thomas's performance was very encouraging.
Best debut by a coach: (Tie) Urban Meyer and Bill O'Brien. The new coaches at Ohio State and Penn State didn't take long to endear themselves to their constituents. Already wildly popular among Buckeyes fans, Meyer brought the team and the student body a little closer by inviting students to watch a practice, even allowing them on the field during a kicking drill. O'Brien made Penn State's practices more open to public scrutiny, and then went around the state and area to meet and greet fans on a caravan tour. No wonder that the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions ranked first and third nationally in spring game attendance.
Best debut by a mascot: Mark Dantonio livened up Michigan State's spring game by putting Sparty -- the school mascot -- in for a running play. Sparty hardly looked like a warrior, getting stuffed immediately on the play and then fumbling, but Dantonio bailed him out by ruling that the defense was offside. There was no more entertaining sequence in any spring game in the country than that one.
Best fill-in for a Heisman finalist: Wisconsin, like a lot of teams, saw no reason to put its star players at risk in the spring game. So 2011 Heisman Trophy finalist Montee Ball watched from the sidelines as redshirt freshman Melvin Gordon ran 30 times for 159 yards and a touchdown. Gordon is stuck behind Ball and James White, but head coach Bret Bielema told ESPN.com that Gordon "might have the most talent of any kid ever I've signed at that position."
Best overhyped position move: A massive fan base and closed spring practices combined to have Michigan fans rampantly speculating about backup quarterback Devin Gardner moving to receiver. A Facebook update supposedly confirmed the move -- until it was later revealed as a fake. Bottom line: Gardner spent some time working at wideout, but is a long way from being an impact player there. And he's still the backup quarterback.
Best spring break: It's hard to question Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez's desire to get better. When the Huskers let their players loose for spring break in the middle of their practice session, Martinez eschewed the beach or the ski slopes. Instead, he went to California to work on his footwork with quarterback instructor Steve Calhoun. The word around Lincoln this spring was that Martinez's fundamentals and passing were much improved. If that's the case this fall, Nebraska's offense should be awfully dangerous.
Best big score: Thanks to a modified scoring system, Northwestern defensive tackle Chance Carter earned 17 points for his team when he returned an interception 19 yards for a touchdown. "It should be a pick-17 every time -- especially for a defensive tackle," Carter later joked. The play by the defense and the front four in particular (four sacks, plus that pick) provided some optimism for a team that struggled to stop anybody last season.
Best Food Network Challenge: New Illinois coach Tim Beckman knows the way to his players' hearts is through their stomachs. Illini team members who missed team meetings were forced to eat porridge for breakfast this offseason, while those who met their requirements received steak and eggs. The same was true at the spring game, with the losing Orange squad getting a postgame meal of beans and weenies instead of the steaks for the victorious Blue squad. We'll see if this motivational technique makes Illinois hungry enough to contend for a Big Ten title this fall.
Best hair: Spring is a time for experimenting, and that includes hairdos. Purdue defensive end Ryan Russell dyed his hair bright red and cut it into a mohawk. He also tested out some other colors during the Boilermakers' spring practice. "It's just a spring thing," he said. "I might change it up and do something different for the season."
Best quote: Dantonio didn't mince words when ESPN.com asked him about the challenges Michigan might present in the future with the Wolverines' strong recruiting efforts. "We're laying in the weeds," he said. "We've beat Michigan the last four years. So where's the threat?" Michigan State fans loved the quote, while Michigan fans despised it. But the Spartans have earned bragging rights. They'll try to keep them when they visit the Big House on Oct. 20
Clear alcohols are for rich women on diets.
- The Wall Street Journal's Rachel Bachman argues the Big Ten and Pac-12 should secede from the college football playoff and just stick with the Rose Bowl. Alabama coach Nick Saban doesn't exactly endorse Jim Delany's latest playoff proposal (something along the lines of "Hell no!").
- The Sporting News ranked 124 college football head coaches, with Urban Meyer (No. 3) topping the Big Ten contingent. Bret Bielema (No. 12) and Mark Dantonio (No. 13) were next in line.
- Defensive lineman Chris Rock (not that one) has left Michigan. Well, there go all the Chris Rock jokes I had holstered. Brady Hoke is already looking forward to the opener against Alabama.
- Evaluating the Michigan State receiver position in the wake of the DeAnthony Arnett news.
- Minnesota could get a $3 million bump from having the Vikings play in TCF Bank Stadium. The parents of the late Gary Tinsley received the degree he was scheduled to earn.
- Could Alex Anzalone still end up at Ohio State despite one of the weirdest recruiting flaps of all time?
- Bill O'Brien has a good idea who his quarterback will be, and that's likely Matt McGloin, Dustin Hockensmith writes. O'Brien says the Nittany Lions have big-play capability.
- Defensive end/linebacker Randy Gregory is still going to be a Purdue Boilermaker, just after a little detour.
- Athlon previews Wisconsin's 2012 season.
- The top recruit in the state of Iowa committed to Missouri. The Hawkeyes' new indoor practice facility should be up and running by the start of fall camp.
- Nebraska cornerback Charles Jackson didn't let an eligibility problem keep him down.
- Illinois appears ahead of its normal pace in recruiting.
- Maize N Brew offers an assessment of Kevin Wilson's challenges at Indiana.
- Off Tackle Empire lists some reasons to dislike Northwestern.
2011 record: 7-6
2011 conference record: 2-6 (fifth, Leaders Division)
Returning starters: Offense: 7; defense: 8; kicker/punter: 1
Top returners
QB Nathan Scheelhaase, C Graham Pocic, WR Darius Millines, LB Jonathan Brown, DE Michael Buchanan, DT Akeem Spence, CB Terry Hawthorne, DT Glenn Foster
Key losses
WR A.J. Jenkins, LT Jeff Allen, G Jack Cornell, DE Whitney Mercilus, LB Ian Thomas, CB Tavon Wilson, K Derek Dimke
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Nathan Scheelhaase* (624 yards)
Passing: Nathan Scheelhaase (2,110 yards)
Receiving: A.J. Jenkins (1,276 yards)
Tackles: Jonathan Brown* (108)
Sacks: Whitney Mercilus (16)
Interceptions: Terry Hawthorne* (3)
Spring answers
1. Front loaded: How good is Illinois' defensive line? The Illini lose a first-round draft pick for the second consecutive year and should be just fine for the next season. Although All-America end Whitney Mercilus leaves a big production void, Illinois is loaded up front with Michael Buchanan, Akeem Spence, Glenn Foster, Justin Staples and others. Buchanan and Spence both have NFL potential and should be the mix for All-Big Ten honors. While Illinois has a new coordinator in Tim Banks, the scheme changes aren't dramatic and new head coach Tim Beckman wisely retained line coach Keith Gilmore.
2. Ferguson emerges: The Illini are short on proven offensive weapons (more on that later), but they came out of the spring game feeling a bit better after watching freshman Josh Ferguson run for 130 yards and record a game-high six receptions. Ferguson, who redshirted last season after being slowed by a hamstring injury, brings top-end speed to the offensive backfield. He could form a nice tandem with Donovonn Young this fall.
3. Versatility abounds: Beckman is open to using versatile players in multiple roles, and two options emerged this spring. Starting cornerback Terry Hawthorne, who has seen time on returns, played some receiver during the spring game and hauled in a 29-yard touchdown pass. Hawthorne played both corner and receiver in high school and could be a "slash" player for the Illini. Reserve quarterback Miles Osei also showed he can be effective at multiple positions (running back, receiver).
Fall questions
1. Offensive weapons: The offense's struggles in the second half of 2011 stemmed in large part from the fact Illinois developed no consistent weapons other than wideout A.J. Jenkins, a surprise first-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers. Depth is a major concern at both running back and receiver. Darius Millines has shown promising flashes, but he struggles to stay healthy. Although the coaches aren't afraid to audition players from other positions, Illinois would really benefit if wide receiver Ryan Lankford and tight ends Evan Wilson and Jon Davis stepped up. The Illini also need a third option at running back behind Young and Ferguson.
2. Special teams: Beckman didn't mince words when evaluating Illinois' special teams from 2011, calling them "terrible." He's being kind. The Illini couldn't catch punts, and they finished last in the FBS in kick return average (15.7 ypr). Standout kicker Derek Dimke departs, and Illinois must find a replacement. Illinois has too much talent to be so lousy in the kicking game, and Beckman stressed the basics this spring. He must continue to see progress this summer as Illinois tries to become a more complete team.
3. Quarterback efficiency: Illinois wants to regain its swagger on offense after flat-lining down the stretch of last season, and it starts with the quarterback spot. Nathan Scheelhaase has started two seasons under center, but he's transitioning to a new system and looked a bit shaky throwing the ball in the spring game. Arm strength is a question mark for Scheelhaase, who will need to spread the ball around in the new system. Reilly O'Toole also is in the mix after playing a decent amount as a backup in 2011. O'Toole will continue to compete for time.
2011 conference record: 2-6 (fifth, Leaders Division)
Returning starters: Offense: 7; defense: 8; kicker/punter: 1
Top returners
QB Nathan Scheelhaase, C Graham Pocic, WR Darius Millines, LB Jonathan Brown, DE Michael Buchanan, DT Akeem Spence, CB Terry Hawthorne, DT Glenn Foster
Key losses
WR A.J. Jenkins, LT Jeff Allen, G Jack Cornell, DE Whitney Mercilus, LB Ian Thomas, CB Tavon Wilson, K Derek Dimke
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Nathan Scheelhaase* (624 yards)
Passing: Nathan Scheelhaase (2,110 yards)
Receiving: A.J. Jenkins (1,276 yards)
Tackles: Jonathan Brown* (108)
Sacks: Whitney Mercilus (16)
Interceptions: Terry Hawthorne* (3)
Spring answers
1. Front loaded: How good is Illinois' defensive line? The Illini lose a first-round draft pick for the second consecutive year and should be just fine for the next season. Although All-America end Whitney Mercilus leaves a big production void, Illinois is loaded up front with Michael Buchanan, Akeem Spence, Glenn Foster, Justin Staples and others. Buchanan and Spence both have NFL potential and should be the mix for All-Big Ten honors. While Illinois has a new coordinator in Tim Banks, the scheme changes aren't dramatic and new head coach Tim Beckman wisely retained line coach Keith Gilmore.
2. Ferguson emerges: The Illini are short on proven offensive weapons (more on that later), but they came out of the spring game feeling a bit better after watching freshman Josh Ferguson run for 130 yards and record a game-high six receptions. Ferguson, who redshirted last season after being slowed by a hamstring injury, brings top-end speed to the offensive backfield. He could form a nice tandem with Donovonn Young this fall.
3. Versatility abounds: Beckman is open to using versatile players in multiple roles, and two options emerged this spring. Starting cornerback Terry Hawthorne, who has seen time on returns, played some receiver during the spring game and hauled in a 29-yard touchdown pass. Hawthorne played both corner and receiver in high school and could be a "slash" player for the Illini. Reserve quarterback Miles Osei also showed he can be effective at multiple positions (running back, receiver).
Fall questions
1. Offensive weapons: The offense's struggles in the second half of 2011 stemmed in large part from the fact Illinois developed no consistent weapons other than wideout A.J. Jenkins, a surprise first-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers. Depth is a major concern at both running back and receiver. Darius Millines has shown promising flashes, but he struggles to stay healthy. Although the coaches aren't afraid to audition players from other positions, Illinois would really benefit if wide receiver Ryan Lankford and tight ends Evan Wilson and Jon Davis stepped up. The Illini also need a third option at running back behind Young and Ferguson.
2. Special teams: Beckman didn't mince words when evaluating Illinois' special teams from 2011, calling them "terrible." He's being kind. The Illini couldn't catch punts, and they finished last in the FBS in kick return average (15.7 ypr). Standout kicker Derek Dimke departs, and Illinois must find a replacement. Illinois has too much talent to be so lousy in the kicking game, and Beckman stressed the basics this spring. He must continue to see progress this summer as Illinois tries to become a more complete team.
3. Quarterback efficiency: Illinois wants to regain its swagger on offense after flat-lining down the stretch of last season, and it starts with the quarterback spot. Nathan Scheelhaase has started two seasons under center, but he's transitioning to a new system and looked a bit shaky throwing the ball in the spring game. Arm strength is a question mark for Scheelhaase, who will need to spread the ball around in the new system. Reilly O'Toole also is in the mix after playing a decent amount as a backup in 2011. O'Toole will continue to compete for time.
You got questions, I got answers. Let's do this.
Mickey from Battle Creek, Mich., writes: Your recent "Take Two" post really has me fired up. I'm pretty sure that I speak for many of the "little 10" fans out there who are just tired of seeing nearly every future projection regarding B1G dominance including only Michigan and Ohio State. When will you guys realize that just because you get top flight recruits and a have high profile program, doesn't mean success on the field? A national title for U of M or Ohio St in the next 5 years? Not at OSU with Braxton Miller playing, or the young guy after he graduates. Michigan I will admit is much more likely than OSU. I know they aren't the "sexy" picks, but I'd be willing to wager that a team that develops its players better (Wisconsin, Michigan State, Iowa) has a better shot, but still gets no mention, even with all the success those programs have had lately. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Well, I laid out my thoughts in that post. I don't know why you dismiss Braxton Miller, who showed major potential as a true freshman and seems like the ideal fit for Urban Meyer's offense. As I wrote, I wouldn't be surprised if Wisconsin or Michigan State or Nebraska, etc., jumped up and played for a title. But if I've got to pick one, I'll take a team that is getting elite-level recruits and has good coaches. Ohio State did pretty well, before last season's tumultuous events, in making BCS games and even championship appearances. With a coach who knows how to win titles, why wouldn't the Buckeyes be a safe bet for doing it again?
Max from Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., writes: I enjoy the blog and thinks you guys do a good job most of the time, but you seemed to have "mailed it in" today. OSU and UM on the fast track? Come on. In today's game defense wins national championships and only Michigan State has that type of defense. Speed and depth at every position, two players considered to be possible first rounders next year, and loads of experience. What am I missing here? Adam mentions that the losses on offense will hamper the Spartans then states that UM will challenge next year after they lose their only weapon. You mention OSU's lines while discounting the experience and depth of both lines at MSU. Come on, guys, you can do better.
Brian Bennett: I absolutely love what Michigan State is doing on defense. Yet I'm still not sure it's quite at the level of some of the recent SEC superpowers. Remember that the Spartans' 'D' was rated one of the nation's best a year ago, and yet it still gave up 30 points to Georgia. (OK, only 23 of those points actually came against the defense, but the 'Dawgs mustered just 10 points against LSU, for instance). A Big Ten team is going to need to score points as well to win a national title, just as Michigan State was able to put up 33 points in that Outback Bowl. I have serious questions about the Spartans' passing game this year. I think once Ohio State gets rolling, it will have a top-notch defense and a highly productive offense. But we'll see who's right in the next few years.
Ry P. from Greensburg, Pa., writes: You understated PSU's nonconference opponents. Temple is now a Big East school AND they are a rival, especially since they are 1 of 3 PA FBS schools and that many kids go to Temple after PSU and PITT pass them over. Also, Navy is an important independent school and cannot be overlooked and disrespected like that. PSU has one of most consistent nonconference schedules with n0 FCS schools scheduled the next 3 years. Personally I'd love to see PSUs nonconference schedule be Temple, PITT, WVU, and Syracuse EVERY season.
Brian Bennett: Memphis, San Diego State and SMU are in the Big East, too. Would you like to play those teams? Temple might be in the same state as Penn State, but it's hardly a rival, given the unequal results between the two. As you said, Penn State has consistently scheduled ambitiously, and the Nittany Lions should be taking on marquee teams like Alabama or USC at least once every year.
Jeff from Marquette, Mich., writes: Hey, Brian, how much of an impact do you really think Andre Rison can have as a coach for MSU? The current coaching staff has done a pretty good job developing receivers and it seems like we've got talent, just not experience. It's not like Rison can take the field so how much of a difference can he really make?
Brian Bennett: I see it as every little bit helps. Rison won't be the main voice in the meeting room or the practice field. But kids will listen to him, because of the success he had in his career. And he surely has some tips and advice to offer. With a group as inexperienced as this one, another mentor can only help.
Ryan from Geneva, Ohio, writes: I think Jim Delany really needs to play hardball with Mike Slive when it comes to campus sites/neutral sites north of the Mason-Dixon. If Slive doesn't capitulate then Delany and Larry Scott (of the Pac 12) should walk out of the talks and announce plans for starting a rival, 8-team playoff on their terms and let the other conferences decide who to follow. The other conferences, particularly the ACC, BE, and the former non-AQs will be inclined to side with the Delany/Scott playoff because they have greater access to it. To entice them to come any conference champion in the top 12 would automatically qualify. What are your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Boy, I hope that doesn't happen. We're so close to a workable college football playoff system that your scenario would be a nightmare. And can you imagine the fan backlash against the Big Ten and Pac-12 if they were basically to announce they were taking their ball and going home? Delany and Scott have no interest in expanding the playoff beyond four teams, anyway. The problem is the Big Ten doesn't have a ton of leverage against the SEC, because Slive is the one holding all those trophies. The home site idea appears to be dead or dying; at the very least, the Big Ten needs to make sure that Midwest sites are strongly considered for the championship game.
Brian from Warrensburg, Mo., writes: Am I the only one that was shocked to see both Montee Ball and Rex Burkhead missing from Todd McShay's way too early 2013 mock draft first round? Are they both too undersized to be first rounders?
Brian Bennett: I'm not surprised by Burkhead's omission. As much as I love him as a college player, I don't think he fits the mold of what NFL scouts -- who often rigidly adhere to measurables and preconceived notions -- are looking for in a running back. But he'll play in the league. It has to be disheartening for Ball, who came back to school largely to improve his draft status after receiving a third-round grade. But after seeing Doug Martin and David Wilson go in the first round, Ball has to like his chances of moving up with a big senior season.
Charlie from Chicago writes: As a Northwestern fan, I think it's a little lame that Fitz is copying Woody Hayes by calling Illinois "that team from Champaign." What do you think about him maybe changing it to "Champaign's Big Ten team"?
Brian Bennett: That's funny, though I've grown tired of the "Ohio" and "That team up north" stuff. Everybody knows who you're talking about. Let's find more clever ways to tweak our rivals.
Andrew F. from Fairbanks, Alaska, writes: As a Buckeye fan, I love Terrelle Pryor -- the kid was awe inspiring on the field, and its not like he was beating up women crashing cars off of it. I don't want him to go away. Did he screw up? Did Tressel screw up? Sure. But I don't care if Urban Meyer is the coach now, I have enjoyed the best coach that Ohio State will ever see, and Terrelle Pryor gave us three wonderful years. I am proud to call them Buckeyes.
Brian Bennett: We have found Terrelle Pryor's fan base: it's in Alaska. Just kidding, Andrew. So you don't want Pryor to go away? Well, Ohio State certainly does, since it banned him from any association with the program for five years. And get back to me if he does actually write that book he promised. I've got two words for you: Jose Canseco.
Logic from Ohio writes: Brian, I agree with your comments about Terrelle Pryor's tattoos not being much help for his family. Another thing - didn't Pryor's attorney claim that his mother bought him a car last May? (The Nissan 350Z that he showed up to a team meeting in). If she couldn't afford her rent, why was she buying him a car? It's hard to feel bad for a kid who time and time again appears dishonest, and only out for himself.
Brian Bennett: You're right, and there was also the issue of some pretty nice cars with dealer tags he drove around Columbus. Was he doing "God's work" in those? Look, I can't begrudge anyone for trying to help their family, and sometimes people go through economic ups and downs. But the point is that Terrelle Pryor has always been about Terrelle Pryor, and I don't find him credible on any of this stuff.
Drew from Milwaukee writes: I can only imagine what kind of completely outrageous emails you are receiving about this Ron Brown business, but I do have a bone to (respectively) pick with you about something you said in your chat on Monday. I find the approach of giving equal consideration to opposing view points, even when one of those viewpoints is utterly objectionable, to be completely irresponsible. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences. If any public figure associate with a major institution like the University of Nebraska had spoken up to say the same things about laws protecting African Americans or Women from discrimination he would fired immediately (especially if he listed his residence as a campus building). Should he be arrested? No. Should he be fired? I'm not even sure about that. But lets stop saying that this is a 'complicated issue' because people have the right to believe whatever they want to. Its not complicated. Ron Brown is a bigot.
Skip from Omaha writes: I want to let you know that I come to ESPN to read about SPORTS! If I wanted to read about social issues I'd go over to a news website. There is a large Christian following that agrees with Coach Brown. You should run some articles about their points of view, but right now you are just making a lot of people like me very angry. I support Coach Brown, he is a very moral person who has had a great impact on many people. Being openly against the gay community is not uncommon, nor is it an immoral stance. The way these articles beat up on Coach Brown, you would think that he is some sort of pedophile or anomaly. He is not. I support Coach Brown and his stances, and I know a vast amount of people who would stand up for him and agree with him. You need to be careful running articles like this. There is no reason to lose sports fans and paying customers over political, social issues.
Brian Bennett: I have largely stayed away from commenting on the Ron Brown story, because you start getting into political, religious and social views that are probably a bit too much for a college football blog. Others have had strong viewpoints and have made their case well. I do know this: I really, really don't want to read any of the articles Skip is talking about.
Mickey from Battle Creek, Mich., writes: Your recent "Take Two" post really has me fired up. I'm pretty sure that I speak for many of the "little 10" fans out there who are just tired of seeing nearly every future projection regarding B1G dominance including only Michigan and Ohio State. When will you guys realize that just because you get top flight recruits and a have high profile program, doesn't mean success on the field? A national title for U of M or Ohio St in the next 5 years? Not at OSU with Braxton Miller playing, or the young guy after he graduates. Michigan I will admit is much more likely than OSU. I know they aren't the "sexy" picks, but I'd be willing to wager that a team that develops its players better (Wisconsin, Michigan State, Iowa) has a better shot, but still gets no mention, even with all the success those programs have had lately. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Well, I laid out my thoughts in that post. I don't know why you dismiss Braxton Miller, who showed major potential as a true freshman and seems like the ideal fit for Urban Meyer's offense. As I wrote, I wouldn't be surprised if Wisconsin or Michigan State or Nebraska, etc., jumped up and played for a title. But if I've got to pick one, I'll take a team that is getting elite-level recruits and has good coaches. Ohio State did pretty well, before last season's tumultuous events, in making BCS games and even championship appearances. With a coach who knows how to win titles, why wouldn't the Buckeyes be a safe bet for doing it again?
Max from Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich., writes: I enjoy the blog and thinks you guys do a good job most of the time, but you seemed to have "mailed it in" today. OSU and UM on the fast track? Come on. In today's game defense wins national championships and only Michigan State has that type of defense. Speed and depth at every position, two players considered to be possible first rounders next year, and loads of experience. What am I missing here? Adam mentions that the losses on offense will hamper the Spartans then states that UM will challenge next year after they lose their only weapon. You mention OSU's lines while discounting the experience and depth of both lines at MSU. Come on, guys, you can do better.
Brian Bennett: I absolutely love what Michigan State is doing on defense. Yet I'm still not sure it's quite at the level of some of the recent SEC superpowers. Remember that the Spartans' 'D' was rated one of the nation's best a year ago, and yet it still gave up 30 points to Georgia. (OK, only 23 of those points actually came against the defense, but the 'Dawgs mustered just 10 points against LSU, for instance). A Big Ten team is going to need to score points as well to win a national title, just as Michigan State was able to put up 33 points in that Outback Bowl. I have serious questions about the Spartans' passing game this year. I think once Ohio State gets rolling, it will have a top-notch defense and a highly productive offense. But we'll see who's right in the next few years.
Ry P. from Greensburg, Pa., writes: You understated PSU's nonconference opponents. Temple is now a Big East school AND they are a rival, especially since they are 1 of 3 PA FBS schools and that many kids go to Temple after PSU and PITT pass them over. Also, Navy is an important independent school and cannot be overlooked and disrespected like that. PSU has one of most consistent nonconference schedules with n0 FCS schools scheduled the next 3 years. Personally I'd love to see PSUs nonconference schedule be Temple, PITT, WVU, and Syracuse EVERY season.
Brian Bennett: Memphis, San Diego State and SMU are in the Big East, too. Would you like to play those teams? Temple might be in the same state as Penn State, but it's hardly a rival, given the unequal results between the two. As you said, Penn State has consistently scheduled ambitiously, and the Nittany Lions should be taking on marquee teams like Alabama or USC at least once every year.
Jeff from Marquette, Mich., writes: Hey, Brian, how much of an impact do you really think Andre Rison can have as a coach for MSU? The current coaching staff has done a pretty good job developing receivers and it seems like we've got talent, just not experience. It's not like Rison can take the field so how much of a difference can he really make?
Brian Bennett: I see it as every little bit helps. Rison won't be the main voice in the meeting room or the practice field. But kids will listen to him, because of the success he had in his career. And he surely has some tips and advice to offer. With a group as inexperienced as this one, another mentor can only help.
Ryan from Geneva, Ohio, writes: I think Jim Delany really needs to play hardball with Mike Slive when it comes to campus sites/neutral sites north of the Mason-Dixon. If Slive doesn't capitulate then Delany and Larry Scott (of the Pac 12) should walk out of the talks and announce plans for starting a rival, 8-team playoff on their terms and let the other conferences decide who to follow. The other conferences, particularly the ACC, BE, and the former non-AQs will be inclined to side with the Delany/Scott playoff because they have greater access to it. To entice them to come any conference champion in the top 12 would automatically qualify. What are your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Boy, I hope that doesn't happen. We're so close to a workable college football playoff system that your scenario would be a nightmare. And can you imagine the fan backlash against the Big Ten and Pac-12 if they were basically to announce they were taking their ball and going home? Delany and Scott have no interest in expanding the playoff beyond four teams, anyway. The problem is the Big Ten doesn't have a ton of leverage against the SEC, because Slive is the one holding all those trophies. The home site idea appears to be dead or dying; at the very least, the Big Ten needs to make sure that Midwest sites are strongly considered for the championship game.
Brian from Warrensburg, Mo., writes: Am I the only one that was shocked to see both Montee Ball and Rex Burkhead missing from Todd McShay's way too early 2013 mock draft first round? Are they both too undersized to be first rounders?
Brian Bennett: I'm not surprised by Burkhead's omission. As much as I love him as a college player, I don't think he fits the mold of what NFL scouts -- who often rigidly adhere to measurables and preconceived notions -- are looking for in a running back. But he'll play in the league. It has to be disheartening for Ball, who came back to school largely to improve his draft status after receiving a third-round grade. But after seeing Doug Martin and David Wilson go in the first round, Ball has to like his chances of moving up with a big senior season.
Charlie from Chicago writes: As a Northwestern fan, I think it's a little lame that Fitz is copying Woody Hayes by calling Illinois "that team from Champaign." What do you think about him maybe changing it to "Champaign's Big Ten team"?
Brian Bennett: That's funny, though I've grown tired of the "Ohio" and "That team up north" stuff. Everybody knows who you're talking about. Let's find more clever ways to tweak our rivals.
Andrew F. from Fairbanks, Alaska, writes: As a Buckeye fan, I love Terrelle Pryor -- the kid was awe inspiring on the field, and its not like he was beating up women crashing cars off of it. I don't want him to go away. Did he screw up? Did Tressel screw up? Sure. But I don't care if Urban Meyer is the coach now, I have enjoyed the best coach that Ohio State will ever see, and Terrelle Pryor gave us three wonderful years. I am proud to call them Buckeyes.
Brian Bennett: We have found Terrelle Pryor's fan base: it's in Alaska. Just kidding, Andrew. So you don't want Pryor to go away? Well, Ohio State certainly does, since it banned him from any association with the program for five years. And get back to me if he does actually write that book he promised. I've got two words for you: Jose Canseco.
Logic from Ohio writes: Brian, I agree with your comments about Terrelle Pryor's tattoos not being much help for his family. Another thing - didn't Pryor's attorney claim that his mother bought him a car last May? (The Nissan 350Z that he showed up to a team meeting in). If she couldn't afford her rent, why was she buying him a car? It's hard to feel bad for a kid who time and time again appears dishonest, and only out for himself.
Brian Bennett: You're right, and there was also the issue of some pretty nice cars with dealer tags he drove around Columbus. Was he doing "God's work" in those? Look, I can't begrudge anyone for trying to help their family, and sometimes people go through economic ups and downs. But the point is that Terrelle Pryor has always been about Terrelle Pryor, and I don't find him credible on any of this stuff.
Drew from Milwaukee writes: I can only imagine what kind of completely outrageous emails you are receiving about this Ron Brown business, but I do have a bone to (respectively) pick with you about something you said in your chat on Monday. I find the approach of giving equal consideration to opposing view points, even when one of those viewpoints is utterly objectionable, to be completely irresponsible. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences. If any public figure associate with a major institution like the University of Nebraska had spoken up to say the same things about laws protecting African Americans or Women from discrimination he would fired immediately (especially if he listed his residence as a campus building). Should he be arrested? No. Should he be fired? I'm not even sure about that. But lets stop saying that this is a 'complicated issue' because people have the right to believe whatever they want to. Its not complicated. Ron Brown is a bigot.
Skip from Omaha writes: I want to let you know that I come to ESPN to read about SPORTS! If I wanted to read about social issues I'd go over to a news website. There is a large Christian following that agrees with Coach Brown. You should run some articles about their points of view, but right now you are just making a lot of people like me very angry. I support Coach Brown, he is a very moral person who has had a great impact on many people. Being openly against the gay community is not uncommon, nor is it an immoral stance. The way these articles beat up on Coach Brown, you would think that he is some sort of pedophile or anomaly. He is not. I support Coach Brown and his stances, and I know a vast amount of people who would stand up for him and agree with him. You need to be careful running articles like this. There is no reason to lose sports fans and paying customers over political, social issues.
Brian Bennett: I have largely stayed away from commenting on the Ron Brown story, because you start getting into political, religious and social views that are probably a bit too much for a college football blog. Others have had strong viewpoints and have made their case well. I do know this: I really, really don't want to read any of the articles Skip is talking about.
I haven't been judged by this many people since I forgot my canvas bags at Whole Foods.
- Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany is talking about the postseason again, and this time he doesn't want division winners in the playoff.
- A ranking of the Big Ten's backup quarterbacks in 2012.
- The mother of the late Minnesota player Gary Tinsley will accept her son's diploma today at commencement.
- An interesting piece from Mike Hlas on how Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz is the Big Ten's youngest elder statesman (among coaches) since another Iowa boss (Hayden Fry).
- Several Big Ten games appear on this list of top contests in the first month of the 2012 season.
- Wisconsin's Bret Bielema, Michigan State's Mark Dantonio and Michigan's Brady Hoke appear on the Sporting News' latest installment of the FBS coaches' rankings.
- Athlon Sports ranks Michigan State at No. 18 on its preseason countdown and has plenty of coverage here and here and here.
- Bill O'Brien sees "sunny days and blue skies" at Penn State. If you need more evidence that things are changing at Penn State, check out the video system O'Brien is using to break down games. The Lions could be adding a second quarterback recruit to their 2013 class.
- Michigan offensive coordinator Al Borges is already preparing for the Alabama game. Former Wolverine star Marcus Ray turns his life around after battling depression.
- Nebraska makes an offer to a prep QB from the Atlanta area. It has been 15 years since former Nebraska coach and AD Bob Devaney passed away.
- Standout recruit Ifeadi Odenigbo hopes to build football tradition at Northwestern.
- Ohio State's spring game attendance shows that the sky is no longer falling in Columbus.
- Illinois picks up yet another recruit for 2013, but Kenton Gibbs still will take visits elsewhere
. - Purdue tackle Dennis Kelly signs with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Beckman, Fitzgerald trying to fuel rivalry
May, 9, 2012
May 9
5:00
PM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
Some Big Ten rivalries burn year-round. Others need a few gallons of kerosene and a book of matches.
The Illinois-Northwestern series undoubtedly falls in the latter category. Although the teams share a state and have played 105 times since 1892, their series never will be confused with some of the Big Ten's best and spiciest rivalries. It might not even make it on the first page. How many non-Illinois or Northwestern fans could identify this as the rivalry trophy at stake when the Illini and Wildcats lock horns.
But coaches Tim Beckman (Illinois) and Pat Fitzgerald (Northwestern) are trying to fan the flames.
Beckman announced at his introductory news conference in December that, "You'll never see me wearing purple." As Toledo's coach, he had his players burn anything they had that was orange -- the color of archrival Bowling Green. He also refers to Northwestern as "the team up north" and put up this sign in Illinois' locker room.
Fitzgerald referred to Illinois as "that team from Champaign" during Monday night's Chicago Cubs TV broadcast (Fitzgerald performed the seventh-inning stretch at Wrigley).
It's not exactly Michigan's Brady Hoke refusing to wear red throughout his career -- despite stints as Ball State's and San Diego State's coach -- and calling Ohio State simply "Ohio," but at least it's something.
The Illinois-Northwestern rivalry has started to move the needle in recent years. Northwestern's marketing slogan, "Chicago's Big Ten team," rankled some Illinois players, officials and fans. Moments after Illinois finished off a 38-35 win against Northwestern last year in Champaign, "Sweet Home Chicago" was played throughout Memorial Stadium.
There have been other flash points. After a win in Evanston in 1998, Illinois players put an orange helmet on the head of a newly installed Wildcat statue at Ryan Field. Two years later, Northwestern got its revenge with a 61-23 thumping of the Illini to clinch a share of the Big Ten title.
But for the most part, the rivalry has been fairly tame. It's fair to question whether both programs consider one another a chief rival. You could argue Iowa is a bigger rival for both Illinois and Northwestern. Illinois also plays Ohio State for the Illibuck and has some tension with Michigan. And while both teams want to increase their presence in Chicago, the Windy City is first and foremost a pro town.
Beckman and Fitzgerald will be challenged to prop up the rivalry, but their efforts should be appreciated. The fact that Illinois and Northwestern are engaged in more recruiting battles, which wasn't the case before, adds to the dynamic.
Of course, the best way for the rivalry to be elevated is for both programs to start competing for Big Ten titles. The last time both programs finished in the top four in the Big Ten: 1971.
Mutual success breeds contempt.
The Illinois-Northwestern series undoubtedly falls in the latter category. Although the teams share a state and have played 105 times since 1892, their series never will be confused with some of the Big Ten's best and spiciest rivalries. It might not even make it on the first page. How many non-Illinois or Northwestern fans could identify this as the rivalry trophy at stake when the Illini and Wildcats lock horns.
But coaches Tim Beckman (Illinois) and Pat Fitzgerald (Northwestern) are trying to fan the flames.
Beckman announced at his introductory news conference in December that, "You'll never see me wearing purple." As Toledo's coach, he had his players burn anything they had that was orange -- the color of archrival Bowling Green. He also refers to Northwestern as "the team up north" and put up this sign in Illinois' locker room.
Fitzgerald referred to Illinois as "that team from Champaign" during Monday night's Chicago Cubs TV broadcast (Fitzgerald performed the seventh-inning stretch at Wrigley).
It's not exactly Michigan's Brady Hoke refusing to wear red throughout his career -- despite stints as Ball State's and San Diego State's coach -- and calling Ohio State simply "Ohio," but at least it's something.
The Illinois-Northwestern rivalry has started to move the needle in recent years. Northwestern's marketing slogan, "Chicago's Big Ten team," rankled some Illinois players, officials and fans. Moments after Illinois finished off a 38-35 win against Northwestern last year in Champaign, "Sweet Home Chicago" was played throughout Memorial Stadium.
There have been other flash points. After a win in Evanston in 1998, Illinois players put an orange helmet on the head of a newly installed Wildcat statue at Ryan Field. Two years later, Northwestern got its revenge with a 61-23 thumping of the Illini to clinch a share of the Big Ten title.
But for the most part, the rivalry has been fairly tame. It's fair to question whether both programs consider one another a chief rival. You could argue Iowa is a bigger rival for both Illinois and Northwestern. Illinois also plays Ohio State for the Illibuck and has some tension with Michigan. And while both teams want to increase their presence in Chicago, the Windy City is first and foremost a pro town.
Beckman and Fitzgerald will be challenged to prop up the rivalry, but their efforts should be appreciated. The fact that Illinois and Northwestern are engaged in more recruiting battles, which wasn't the case before, adds to the dynamic.
Of course, the best way for the rivalry to be elevated is for both programs to start competing for Big Ten titles. The last time both programs finished in the top four in the Big Ten: 1971.
Mutual success breeds contempt.
White Fang-ing these links.
- The Alex Anzalone case at Ohio State shows the dangers of social media for athletes, Rob Oller writes. The Buckeyes' John Simon made former colleague Bruce Feldman's annual "Freaks" list.
- The versatile Bill Belton could be a huge weapon in Bill O'Brien's Penn State offense. O'Brien says only about a third of the team's starters have been identified so far.
- Grantland's Charles P. Pierce tackles the Ron Brown issue and what he sees as the looming end of homophobia in sports.
- Purdue's Antavian Edison has used Twitter to declare his innocence on gun charges. The Boilermakers picked up a junior-college defensive end.
- Barry Alvarez favors a selection committee for picking the four teams involved in the coming playoff. Former Wisconsin fullback Bradie Ewing had his path cleared toward playing for the Falcons.
- Former Michigan State star T.J. Duckett has made life after football all about community service. Keith Nichol is trying to catch on with the Redskins. Denicos Allen is looking to get better on his fundamentals after a breakthrough year.
- Jordan Kovacs is looking forward to Michigan's night games this season. Kevin Koger is staying upbeat despite a devastating injury that killed his draft chances.
- Kirk Ferentz is hoping his young team can make some fast improvements.
- Illinois is keeping tabs on a pair of Indiana high school teammates.
- Former Minnesota defensive lineman Anthony Jacobs signed with the Vikings. A local kicker is headed to the Gophers.
- Off Tackle Empire examines Northwestern's prospects.
Your questions, my answers.
Jack from Arlington, Va., writes: Adam, you rightfully have Gerald Hodges as a top contender for B1G DPOY in 2012 after a standout performance in 2011, and Jordan Hill as an "other player to watch" after a solid, under the radar year in 2011. Sound analysis on both counts. However, I think Mauti deserves the "other player to watch" tag. He was a monster early in 2011 before his ACL tear, and should be 100% in the fall. Just look at Posluszny in 2006 and Sean Lee in 2009. Both came back strong from ACL tears, and both deserved consideration for DPOY in 2006 and 2009, respectively.
Adam Rittenberg: Jack, while I considered Mauti for that second category, I need to see how he responds from his latest injury setback. He looked great early last season, but this is his second ACL tear at Penn State. He has worked extremely hard during his rehab, but whether he'll ever perform like he could have without the injuries remains very much in question. I definitely wish Michael the best because he's one of the best people I deal with in the league. And if he has a breakout senior season, like Paul Posluszny in 2006, I wouldn't be shocked. But right now, he doesn't quite belong in that second tier of DPOY candidates.
Patrick Ward from Chicago writes: Please get Jonathan Brown off of your DPOY list. Did you see me mauling him all game? He couldn't take it anymore so he resulted in a low blox. He's a cheap shot artist and a punk.Please talk to Denard about Gholston, as well... Please start taking into consideration how a player plays the game as well as the stats.
Adam Rittenberg: First of all, this isn't really Northwestern tackle Patrick Ward. Second of all, this award goes to the best defensive player in the Big Ten, not the defensive player who never makes a mistake or draws a personal foul. Third of all, neither Jonathan Brown nor William Gholston should be judged solely based on a few mistakes made last season. Both are exceptional athletes who have the ability to win this award, and that's why they're on this list. Did both deserve their suspensions? Absolutely. But it doesn't mean they're bad guys. And besides, these awards aren't solely based on sportsmanship. It's about performance.
Shareef from Ann Arbor, Mich., writes: Hey Adam, in your post on Tuesday about DPOY candidates, you left Michigan's Craig Roh off the list of potential, or even dark horse, candidates. Any specific reason why? He's a player with a lot of talent and he'll get some top-notch coaching for the second-straight season. He's filling in for Ryan van Bergen's role, and apparently had a great spring there.
Adam Rittenberg: Shareef, I simply need to see more from Roh. There's no doubt about his talent, but he hasn't really built on a strong freshman year in 2009. Part of that has been Michigan's scheme changes and where he fits in (or doesn't fit in). Roh has moved around a bit in his career and faces another position shift in 2012 as he bulks up to play strongside defensive end. He was slowed early last season by a bout of mono, but he came on strong late and could be poised for a nice senior year this fall. I could include dozens of players in the "dark horse" category, but that's not really the idea. Roh isn't far away from that group and certainly could make a push this year, but I'm looking for more from him.
Beau from Davenport, Iowa, writes: Hello darkness my old friend... You seem to be sleeping on my Hawks. Iowa's whole season comes down to two things. DL play and RB. I think we have good RBs now plus Hill ( hello a bigger better Adam Robinson) and Garmon ( hello Sedrick Shaw starter kit). so it comes down to DL. We have a Easy start to the Season (NIU and ISU is no give me. but Minny and UNI will be). Question is Can Kirk be mister November again like in his hay day?
Adam Rittenberg: I'd add James Vandenberg's play on the road and secondary play to your list of key elements, but yes, the running backs and defensive linemen will be huge this fall for Iowa. Given the recent track record, it's fair to be optimistic that Iowa will identify a capable running back or two. Both incoming recruits look promising, especially Greg Garmon. The defensive line scares me, and Iowa will need its linebackers to really step up, especially early in the season. But the key question for Iowa, as always, is how the team fares in close games. The Hawkeyes were terrific from late 2008 through most of 2009, but they've struggled since. If they can recapture their crunch-time mojo, they'll make some noise.
Bret from Las Vegas writes: I'm confused with the reason given to why home stadiums can't be used for semi-final games in a playoff system. The reason given was that some stadiums are too small and some towns aren't big enough to handle fans. Obviously everything works for home games which is what this would be. The only thing I can think of is that the game isn't supposed to be a "home" game - in other words, the visiting team would be given a much larger share of seats than they typically get with an away game. Is this right? Otherwise, this feels like a lame excuse to push the conversation in a different direction.
Adam Rittenberg: Bret, there's more to it than just accommodating visiting fans. This would be more of a national event than a home game for the No. 1 or No. 2 seed. The TV production would be different, and some of the venues don't provide the same amenities you see at the bowl sites or in places like Indianapolis' Lucas Oil Stadium, which is why the marquee national events are held at those venues. You also have to accommodate the corporate sponsors, a larger media contingent and events that would surround the game. Despite all this, such events could go off without a hitch at most Big Ten venues, most SEC venues, most Big 12 venues, most Pac-12 venues and most ACC venues. Yes, having a game at a stadium like TCU's could provide some challenges, but how often realistically will that happen? Most of these games, in my view, will be played at places like Alabama, LSU, USC, Oklahoma and Ohio State.
Sparty from East Lansing writes: Adam, I am shocked that there has been no mention of the rollover accident on May 3rd involving William Gholston and Lawrence Thomas. While they only suffered minor injuries, it could have been a lot worse.
Adam Rittenberg: Mentioned it last week. And you're right. Both Gholston and Thomas are very lucky to walk away from it.
Jeff from Phoenix writes: Adam, I enjoy your articles but had to respond after reading this..."How Waugh had such close access to players and recruits raises some questions. Then again, it's difficult for schools to account for everyone in a very public setting like the spring game."Am I wrong to assume that recruits sit in the stands with every other ticket holder there? This was a man that obviously was on a mission. I am a huge Buckeye fan and follow recruiting, but I wouldnt know if I was sitting next to one of them. The statement you made seems to indicate that OSU was at fault in some way. Unless a recruit is sitting in club seats and not allowed to interact with the public, how can ANY university be to blame. Its not like he was friends with the head coach, was a former coach and was given access to the Universitys facilities!
Adam Rittenberg: Jeff, I think a lot of folks misunderstood that statement, and for that I apologize. My point is that Ohio State, as a massive program with a massive fan following in a major city, has, in my view, more challenges in protecting its players from shady individuals than do other Big Ten programs. We saw last year with the NCAA violations situation that there were individuals around the Ohio State program (Bobby DiGeronimo, Dennis Talbott) who caused problems because of their ties to players. This case seems unique, and I don't think Ohio State could have done anything to prevent Waugh from contacting players and recruits other than sending out the warning after the fact. As Alex Anzalone's father told colleague Mitch Sherman, he doesn't blame Ohio State or the coaching staff for the situation. Still, it's important for Ohio State to monitor who is interacting with players and recruits as best it can.
Jack from Arlington, Va., writes: Adam, you rightfully have Gerald Hodges as a top contender for B1G DPOY in 2012 after a standout performance in 2011, and Jordan Hill as an "other player to watch" after a solid, under the radar year in 2011. Sound analysis on both counts. However, I think Mauti deserves the "other player to watch" tag. He was a monster early in 2011 before his ACL tear, and should be 100% in the fall. Just look at Posluszny in 2006 and Sean Lee in 2009. Both came back strong from ACL tears, and both deserved consideration for DPOY in 2006 and 2009, respectively.
Adam Rittenberg: Jack, while I considered Mauti for that second category, I need to see how he responds from his latest injury setback. He looked great early last season, but this is his second ACL tear at Penn State. He has worked extremely hard during his rehab, but whether he'll ever perform like he could have without the injuries remains very much in question. I definitely wish Michael the best because he's one of the best people I deal with in the league. And if he has a breakout senior season, like Paul Posluszny in 2006, I wouldn't be shocked. But right now, he doesn't quite belong in that second tier of DPOY candidates.
Patrick Ward from Chicago writes: Please get Jonathan Brown off of your DPOY list. Did you see me mauling him all game? He couldn't take it anymore so he resulted in a low blox. He's a cheap shot artist and a punk.Please talk to Denard about Gholston, as well... Please start taking into consideration how a player plays the game as well as the stats.
Adam Rittenberg: First of all, this isn't really Northwestern tackle Patrick Ward. Second of all, this award goes to the best defensive player in the Big Ten, not the defensive player who never makes a mistake or draws a personal foul. Third of all, neither Jonathan Brown nor William Gholston should be judged solely based on a few mistakes made last season. Both are exceptional athletes who have the ability to win this award, and that's why they're on this list. Did both deserve their suspensions? Absolutely. But it doesn't mean they're bad guys. And besides, these awards aren't solely based on sportsmanship. It's about performance.
Shareef from Ann Arbor, Mich., writes: Hey Adam, in your post on Tuesday about DPOY candidates, you left Michigan's Craig Roh off the list of potential, or even dark horse, candidates. Any specific reason why? He's a player with a lot of talent and he'll get some top-notch coaching for the second-straight season. He's filling in for Ryan van Bergen's role, and apparently had a great spring there.
Adam Rittenberg: Shareef, I simply need to see more from Roh. There's no doubt about his talent, but he hasn't really built on a strong freshman year in 2009. Part of that has been Michigan's scheme changes and where he fits in (or doesn't fit in). Roh has moved around a bit in his career and faces another position shift in 2012 as he bulks up to play strongside defensive end. He was slowed early last season by a bout of mono, but he came on strong late and could be poised for a nice senior year this fall. I could include dozens of players in the "dark horse" category, but that's not really the idea. Roh isn't far away from that group and certainly could make a push this year, but I'm looking for more from him.
Beau from Davenport, Iowa, writes: Hello darkness my old friend... You seem to be sleeping on my Hawks. Iowa's whole season comes down to two things. DL play and RB. I think we have good RBs now plus Hill ( hello a bigger better Adam Robinson) and Garmon ( hello Sedrick Shaw starter kit). so it comes down to DL. We have a Easy start to the Season (NIU and ISU is no give me. but Minny and UNI will be). Question is Can Kirk be mister November again like in his hay day?
Adam Rittenberg: I'd add James Vandenberg's play on the road and secondary play to your list of key elements, but yes, the running backs and defensive linemen will be huge this fall for Iowa. Given the recent track record, it's fair to be optimistic that Iowa will identify a capable running back or two. Both incoming recruits look promising, especially Greg Garmon. The defensive line scares me, and Iowa will need its linebackers to really step up, especially early in the season. But the key question for Iowa, as always, is how the team fares in close games. The Hawkeyes were terrific from late 2008 through most of 2009, but they've struggled since. If they can recapture their crunch-time mojo, they'll make some noise.
Bret from Las Vegas writes: I'm confused with the reason given to why home stadiums can't be used for semi-final games in a playoff system. The reason given was that some stadiums are too small and some towns aren't big enough to handle fans. Obviously everything works for home games which is what this would be. The only thing I can think of is that the game isn't supposed to be a "home" game - in other words, the visiting team would be given a much larger share of seats than they typically get with an away game. Is this right? Otherwise, this feels like a lame excuse to push the conversation in a different direction.
Adam Rittenberg: Bret, there's more to it than just accommodating visiting fans. This would be more of a national event than a home game for the No. 1 or No. 2 seed. The TV production would be different, and some of the venues don't provide the same amenities you see at the bowl sites or in places like Indianapolis' Lucas Oil Stadium, which is why the marquee national events are held at those venues. You also have to accommodate the corporate sponsors, a larger media contingent and events that would surround the game. Despite all this, such events could go off without a hitch at most Big Ten venues, most SEC venues, most Big 12 venues, most Pac-12 venues and most ACC venues. Yes, having a game at a stadium like TCU's could provide some challenges, but how often realistically will that happen? Most of these games, in my view, will be played at places like Alabama, LSU, USC, Oklahoma and Ohio State.
Sparty from East Lansing writes: Adam, I am shocked that there has been no mention of the rollover accident on May 3rd involving William Gholston and Lawrence Thomas. While they only suffered minor injuries, it could have been a lot worse.
Adam Rittenberg: Mentioned it last week. And you're right. Both Gholston and Thomas are very lucky to walk away from it.
Jeff from Phoenix writes: Adam, I enjoy your articles but had to respond after reading this..."How Waugh had such close access to players and recruits raises some questions. Then again, it's difficult for schools to account for everyone in a very public setting like the spring game."Am I wrong to assume that recruits sit in the stands with every other ticket holder there? This was a man that obviously was on a mission. I am a huge Buckeye fan and follow recruiting, but I wouldnt know if I was sitting next to one of them. The statement you made seems to indicate that OSU was at fault in some way. Unless a recruit is sitting in club seats and not allowed to interact with the public, how can ANY university be to blame. Its not like he was friends with the head coach, was a former coach and was given access to the Universitys facilities!
Adam Rittenberg: Jeff, I think a lot of folks misunderstood that statement, and for that I apologize. My point is that Ohio State, as a massive program with a massive fan following in a major city, has, in my view, more challenges in protecting its players from shady individuals than do other Big Ten programs. We saw last year with the NCAA violations situation that there were individuals around the Ohio State program (Bobby DiGeronimo, Dennis Talbott) who caused problems because of their ties to players. This case seems unique, and I don't think Ohio State could have done anything to prevent Waugh from contacting players and recruits other than sending out the warning after the fact. As Alex Anzalone's father told colleague Mitch Sherman, he doesn't blame Ohio State or the coaching staff for the situation. Still, it's important for Ohio State to monitor who is interacting with players and recruits as best it can.
Ohio State No. 1 in spring game attendance
May, 8, 2012
May 8
3:05
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
We always say around here that spring games are overrated from an information-gathering standpoint. Still, you can't blame fans for wanting to see their team in action, and those whose schools have new coaches were especially curious to see what things were looking like this spring.
That's one reason it's no surprise that Ohio State and Penn State had two of the three largest spring game crowds in the nation this year, according to Sports Business Daily.
The Buckeyes led the country in spring game attendance, with 81,112 coming out to get a glimpse of the new Urban Meyer regime. No one should be surprised by the passion for the Scarlet and Grey; Ohio State claims the all-time spring game record, with more than 95,000 showing up for the 2009 event.
Defending national champion Alabama was second with 78,526, followed by Penn State at 60,000. The Nittany Lions got a large turnout for Bill O'Brien's Beaver Stadium debut and the first spring game without Joe Paterno in half a century.
Spring game attendance is often largely dependent on the weather, and it must be said that weather conditions were truly terrible throughout most of the Big Ten for spring games. Rain and chilly temperatures were the norm, holding down crowds at places like Michigan and Michigan State. Storms canceled the Nebraska spring game, which surely would have been packed since the Huskers drew more than 66,000 last year and better than 77,000 the previous two spring games. Indiana and Purdue both moved their events indoors and mostly kept fans away to escape lightning.
So the numbers were lower than they should have been, but here is how other Big Ten schools ranked nationally in spring game attendance:
17. Michigan: 25,000
20: Michigan State: 20,000
31: Iowa: 15,000
36: Wisconsin: 10,479
53. Minnesota: 3,500
55. Illinois: 3,000
Note: Northwestern did not report its attendance for the spring game.
You can tell from this 2011 chart that the numbers were down from their averages in a lot of places. Let's hope for better weather next spring.
That's one reason it's no surprise that Ohio State and Penn State had two of the three largest spring game crowds in the nation this year, according to Sports Business Daily.
The Buckeyes led the country in spring game attendance, with 81,112 coming out to get a glimpse of the new Urban Meyer regime. No one should be surprised by the passion for the Scarlet and Grey; Ohio State claims the all-time spring game record, with more than 95,000 showing up for the 2009 event.
Defending national champion Alabama was second with 78,526, followed by Penn State at 60,000. The Nittany Lions got a large turnout for Bill O'Brien's Beaver Stadium debut and the first spring game without Joe Paterno in half a century.
Spring game attendance is often largely dependent on the weather, and it must be said that weather conditions were truly terrible throughout most of the Big Ten for spring games. Rain and chilly temperatures were the norm, holding down crowds at places like Michigan and Michigan State. Storms canceled the Nebraska spring game, which surely would have been packed since the Huskers drew more than 66,000 last year and better than 77,000 the previous two spring games. Indiana and Purdue both moved their events indoors and mostly kept fans away to escape lightning.
So the numbers were lower than they should have been, but here is how other Big Ten schools ranked nationally in spring game attendance:
17. Michigan: 25,000
20: Michigan State: 20,000
31: Iowa: 15,000
36: Wisconsin: 10,479
53. Minnesota: 3,500
55. Illinois: 3,000
Note: Northwestern did not report its attendance for the spring game.
You can tell from this 2011 chart that the numbers were down from their averages in a lot of places. Let's hope for better weather next spring.
And the wild things roared their terrible roars and gnashed their terrible teeth and rolled their terrible eyes and showed their terrible claws.
RIP, Maurice Sendak.
RIP, Maurice Sendak.
- The date of the alleged locker-room shower incident involving Jerry Sandusky has changed, which could help two former Penn State officials in their perjury case.
- Recruit Alex Anzalone hasn't ruled out Ohio State after decommitting from the Buckeyes last week. The sex offender who posted pictures of himself and Anzalone on the Web was arrested Monday.
- Spring football accelerated the healing process at both Penn State and Ohio State, colleague Gene Wojciechowski writes.
- Northwestern might be a long shot to bring ESPN's "College GameDay" to campus, but coach Pat Fitzgerald is taking the challenge head on. Matt Micucci starred as a prep quarterback, but he'll walk on as a kicker/punter at Northwestern.
- Several former Illinois players gear up for NFL camps, John Supinie writes. A look back at the year for Illinois football.
- There's a chance Iowa's season opener at Soldier Field might not be televised. The Hawkeyes roll out the welcome mat for folks from Camp Courageous.
- Here's the latest on the arrest of Purdue wide receiver Antavian Edison. Former Purdue star Matt Light has announced his retirement from the NFL's New England Patriots.
- Michigan safety Jordan Kovacs steps into a primary leadership role. Soon-to-be baseball Hall of Famer Barry Larkin talks about how he told Bo Schembechler he was quitting football at Michigan.
- Dirk Chatelain has a very personal take on the controversy surrounding Nebraska assistant Ron Brown.
- Wisconsin's coaches need to make a stronger effort to ensure their athletes avoid bad choices. Montee Ball wasn't the only elite athlete on Mifflin Street -- oh, Kaner.
- BTN.com's Tom Dienhart ranks his top Big Ten tandems.
- Bill O'Brien is aware of the expectations he faces at Penn State. The Beaver Stadium scoreboard makeover won't be complete until 2014.
- Several former Minnesota players are chasing their NFL dreams with the Vikings.
- A defensive recruit from Florida lands his first scholarship offer from Indiana.
- The Football Writers Association of America gives some well-deserved recognition to Michigan State's athletic communications staff.
- The Naples News' David Moulton favors Jim Delany's proposal for a college football playoff.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Adam Rittenberg
Rittenberg joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four years at the Arlington Heights (Ill.) Daily Herald, where he covered sports at Notre Dame, Northwestern, DePaul and several other colleges. He lives in Chicago.
Brian Bennett
Bennett joined ESPN.com in August 2008 after nine years at The Courier-Journal in Louisville, Ky., where he covered college sports and the University of Louisville beat. He lives in Louisville.
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