Big Ten
By Matt Hetzler
Last season we nailed the Big Ten! We had the most accurate West predictions and Big Ten. Accuracy is tracked by Stassen.com
East
#1T Michigan 11-1 (8-1)
Coach: Jim Harbaugh
Offensive Coordinator: Pep Hamilton
Defensive Coordinator: Don Brown
Stadium: Michigan Stadium (107,601)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 10-3
2015 10-3
2014 5-7
2013 7-6
Offensive Coordinator: Pep Hamilton
Defensive Coordinator: Don Brown
Stadium: Michigan Stadium (107,601)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 10-3
2015 10-3
2014 5-7
2013 7-6
Overview
Jim Harbaugh suffered his worst season in Ann Arbor last season. Michigan stumbled to a head-scratching 8-5 record. Harbaugh carries a 28-11 record into the new season and has his most talented team to date. Michigan hit the jackpot with Shea Patterson transferring in from Ole Miss. Patterson completed 64% of his passes for 2,259 yards in half a season in Oxford, MS. Patterson gives Michigan a legit QB for the first time in the Harbaugh era. Karan Higdon and Chris Evans are a dangerous duo in the rushing attack. Higdon finished with 994 yards and 11 TD, earning All-B1G honors. There’s no shortage of talent in the wide receiver crops. Michigan has recruited the position well since Harbaugh arrived. With a Shea Patterson, I expect the wide receivers to have breakout years. Tarik Black is the most gifted receiver on the bunch. Black experienced a season ending injury in just the 3rd game. Grant Perry is a veteran. Donovan Peoples-Jones is a home run waiting to happen every time he touches the ball. One area that needs improvement is on the offensive line. Michigan returns 3 starters including All-Big 10 guard Ben Bredeson. Kicker Quinn Nordin has one of the strongest legs in the country. Nordin was good on 19 of 24 FG attempts with a long of 55.
Don Brown has done a fantastic job in Ann Arbor. Brown’s defense was one of the best in the country in 2017. With 9 starters returning, Michigan should have the top defense in college football. Rashan Gary is one of the best defensive lineman in the country. Gary was an absolute beast last season, finishing with 67 tackles and 6 sacks, earning 1st-team Big Ten honors. Chase Winovich may not have the star power of Rashan Gary but he is just as solid. Winovich dominated the line, producing 10 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and 77 tackles. Devin Bush led the Wolverines with 100 tackles and added 5 sacks. Bush earned 2nd team All-American honors and should move up to 1st team in 2018. Khaleke Hudson is another ferocious linebacker for the Don Brown defense. Hudson finished with 82 tackles, 8 sacks, 9.5 for loss, and 9 PBU. He’s one of the best all-around linebackers in the country. CB Lavert Hill found himself on my list of best defensive backs in the nation. Hill is a lockdown corner and one of the reasons Michigan led the country in passing defense. Tyree Kinnel and Josh Metellus round out an impressive group.
Jim Harbaugh finds himself with one of the more talented teams in college football. Harbaugh and the Wolverine faithful will find out how good this team is after a visit to South Bend for the season opener. If Michigan can knock off Notre Dame, it’ll send shockwaves throughout the Big Ten. A trip to Evanston to face off with the Wildcats could be a tricky game. Michigan hosts Wisconsin and Penn State. Michigan plays at Michigan State and Ohio State this season. Harbaugh has struggled with both of the biggest rivals (1-5). I am a full believer in Shea Patterson and his ability to jump start this offense. If the line can improve and protect Patterson, while creating a rushing attack, it’s game over. I’d be shocked if any opponent scores over 30 points on this Michigan defense in 2018. Basically what I’m saying is Michigan is going to be really, really good. I’m bullish and all-in on the Wolverines. Michigan will win its first B1G Championship since 2004 and make its CFP debut.
Don Brown has done a fantastic job in Ann Arbor. Brown’s defense was one of the best in the country in 2017. With 9 starters returning, Michigan should have the top defense in college football. Rashan Gary is one of the best defensive lineman in the country. Gary was an absolute beast last season, finishing with 67 tackles and 6 sacks, earning 1st-team Big Ten honors. Chase Winovich may not have the star power of Rashan Gary but he is just as solid. Winovich dominated the line, producing 10 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and 77 tackles. Devin Bush led the Wolverines with 100 tackles and added 5 sacks. Bush earned 2nd team All-American honors and should move up to 1st team in 2018. Khaleke Hudson is another ferocious linebacker for the Don Brown defense. Hudson finished with 82 tackles, 8 sacks, 9.5 for loss, and 9 PBU. He’s one of the best all-around linebackers in the country. CB Lavert Hill found himself on my list of best defensive backs in the nation. Hill is a lockdown corner and one of the reasons Michigan led the country in passing defense. Tyree Kinnel and Josh Metellus round out an impressive group.
Jim Harbaugh finds himself with one of the more talented teams in college football. Harbaugh and the Wolverine faithful will find out how good this team is after a visit to South Bend for the season opener. If Michigan can knock off Notre Dame, it’ll send shockwaves throughout the Big Ten. A trip to Evanston to face off with the Wildcats could be a tricky game. Michigan hosts Wisconsin and Penn State. Michigan plays at Michigan State and Ohio State this season. Harbaugh has struggled with both of the biggest rivals (1-5). I am a full believer in Shea Patterson and his ability to jump start this offense. If the line can improve and protect Patterson, while creating a rushing attack, it’s game over. I’d be shocked if any opponent scores over 30 points on this Michigan defense in 2018. Basically what I’m saying is Michigan is going to be really, really good. I’m bullish and all-in on the Wolverines. Michigan will win its first B1G Championship since 2004 and make its CFP debut.
Top Returners
Offense:
Passing
Brandon Peters, SO, QB
Rushing
Karan Higdon, SR, RB
Receiving
Sean McKeon, JR, TE
Defense:
Interceptions:
Four Players Tied at 2
Sacks:
Khaleke Hudson, JR, LB and Chase Winovich, SR, DE
Tackles:
Devin Bush, JR, LB
Passing
Brandon Peters, SO, QB
Rushing
Karan Higdon, SR, RB
Receiving
Sean McKeon, JR, TE
Defense:
Interceptions:
Four Players Tied at 2
Sacks:
Khaleke Hudson, JR, LB and Chase Winovich, SR, DE
Tackles:
Devin Bush, JR, LB
#1T Ohio State 11-1 (8-1)
Coach: Urban Meyer
Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day
Defensive Coordinator: Alex Grinch and Greg Schiano
Stadium: Ohio Stadium (104,944)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 12-2
2016 11-2
2015 12-1
2014 14-1
2013 12-2
Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day
Defensive Coordinator: Alex Grinch and Greg Schiano
Stadium: Ohio Stadium (104,944)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 12-2
2016 11-2
2015 12-1
2014 14-1
2013 12-2
Overview
Ohio State enters the season looking for a second straight Big Ten Championship. This year, they’d like to get an invite to the CFP. Ohio State lost to Oklahoma early and then were shellacked by Iowa to ruin their hopes for a national title. JT Barrett, one of the most decorated QB’s in school history is gone. Sophomore Dwayne Haskins will takeover for the Buckeyes. In limited action, Haskins looked great, completing 40/57 for 565 yards and 4 scores. JK Dobbins is one of the premier running backs in the country. Dobbins enters the season as one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. His freshman season was spectacular, rushing for 1,403 yards, a 7.2 yards per carry average and 7 TD. Dobbins split carries with Barrett and Mike Weber. Dobbins should see an increased workload this season. Ohio State returns the majority of their wide receiving corps from last season. Parris Campbell and KJ Hill were the two most consistent performers. Terry McLaurin and Johnnie Dixon were the most explosive in the passing game, combining for 14 TD. Ohio State returns 3 starters on the offensive line, including Big Ten 1st teamer Michael Jordan. Kicker Sean Nuernberger converted on 17-21 FG, but struggled from 40+.
Ohio State returns one of the most dominant defensive lines in college football. Nick Bosa is the headliner of defensive front 7. Bosa is most certainly going to be a top draft pick after the season. He may have only recorded 34 tackles in 2017 but don’t let that fool you. Bosa is an elite pass rusher (8.5 sacks) while drawing the most attention of any lineman in the country. Chase Young has a chance to turn some heads playing opposite of Bosa this season. I really like the combination of Jones and Landers on the interior. Tuf Borland is going to blossom into one of the best linebackers in the country this season. Ohio State has an abundance of NFL talent in the secondary. Kendall Sheffield and Damon Arnette are one of the top CB duos in the country. I had both rated on my top defensive backs list. Jordan Fuller could be the most talented player in the Buckeye secondary. Fuller leads all returning Buckeyes in tackles with 70. Drue Chrisman is one of the top punters in the nation, he earned 1st-team All-B1G as a freshman.
Ohio State has been my pick to win the national championship for the previous two seasons. Those Ohio State teams were definitely more talented than this group. There is something special about Dobbins, Bosa, Fuller and Haskins. If these guys perform at a career level, Ohio State will return to the CFP. Ohio State won’t be tested until week 3 when they play Big 12 powerhouse TCU. A date in Happy Valley on September 29th will be a true test of how good this Buckeyes team is. If the Buckeyes survive, they’ll be 9-0 heading into East Lansing to battle the Spartans before ending the season with the Michigan Wolverines in the Shoe. Ohio State will not go undefeated. The Buckeyes will have another strong case for the playoff committee. Here’s my prediction, Ohio State finishes 11-1, with no appearance in the B1G title game. Like 2016, Ohio State sneaks into the playoff without winning a conference championship.
Ohio State returns one of the most dominant defensive lines in college football. Nick Bosa is the headliner of defensive front 7. Bosa is most certainly going to be a top draft pick after the season. He may have only recorded 34 tackles in 2017 but don’t let that fool you. Bosa is an elite pass rusher (8.5 sacks) while drawing the most attention of any lineman in the country. Chase Young has a chance to turn some heads playing opposite of Bosa this season. I really like the combination of Jones and Landers on the interior. Tuf Borland is going to blossom into one of the best linebackers in the country this season. Ohio State has an abundance of NFL talent in the secondary. Kendall Sheffield and Damon Arnette are one of the top CB duos in the country. I had both rated on my top defensive backs list. Jordan Fuller could be the most talented player in the Buckeye secondary. Fuller leads all returning Buckeyes in tackles with 70. Drue Chrisman is one of the top punters in the nation, he earned 1st-team All-B1G as a freshman.
Ohio State has been my pick to win the national championship for the previous two seasons. Those Ohio State teams were definitely more talented than this group. There is something special about Dobbins, Bosa, Fuller and Haskins. If these guys perform at a career level, Ohio State will return to the CFP. Ohio State won’t be tested until week 3 when they play Big 12 powerhouse TCU. A date in Happy Valley on September 29th will be a true test of how good this Buckeyes team is. If the Buckeyes survive, they’ll be 9-0 heading into East Lansing to battle the Spartans before ending the season with the Michigan Wolverines in the Shoe. Ohio State will not go undefeated. The Buckeyes will have another strong case for the playoff committee. Here’s my prediction, Ohio State finishes 11-1, with no appearance in the B1G title game. Like 2016, Ohio State sneaks into the playoff without winning a conference championship.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Dwayne Haskins, SO, QB
Rushing
J.K. Dobbins, SO, RB
Receiving
K.J. Hill, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jordan Fuller, JR, SS and Damon Arnette, JR, CB
Sacks
Nick Bosa, JR, DE
Tackles
Jordan Fuller, JR, SS
#3 Michigan State 10-2 (7-2)
Coach: Mike Dantonio
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Bollman and Dave Warner
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Tressel
Stadium: Spartan Stadium (75,005)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 3-9
2015 12-2
2014 11-2
2013 13-1
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Bollman and Dave Warner
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Tressel
Stadium: Spartan Stadium (75,005)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 3-9
2015 12-2
2014 11-2
2013 13-1
Overview
Michigan State returned to the top of the B1G in 2017 and the Spartans return 19 starters from a 10-win team. Brian Lewerke was one of the biggest reasons for the 7-win turnaround. Lewerke managed games and made big plays when it was needed. He completed just 57% of his passes but he didn’t turn the ball over often. He’s also very mobile, rushing for 559 yards. Senior RB LJ Scott returns for Sparty. Scott has been a reliable workhouse for some years now in East Lansing. Scott is a hard nosed, between the tackles running back. He’s not flashy but he grinds out yardage and eats the clock. Felton Davis, Darrell Stewart, and Cody White all return at receiver. David led the Spartans with 55 receptions, 776 yards, and 9 receiving TD. Michigan State returns 4 starters on the offensive line, including talented sophomores Kevin Jarvis and Luke Campbell.
Michigan State fielded one of the better defenses in the country last season. Sparty allowed just 95.3 yards rushing yards per game, good for 2nd in the nation. 5 starters in the defensive front 7 return for 2018. Kenny Willekes dominated the outside edge, finishing with a team high in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (7.5). Raequan Williams was a key player in defending the run, stuffing the neutral zone. Joe Bachie and Andrew Dowell led the Spartans in total tackles. Bachie hit triple digits (100) and Dowell added 74. Josiah Scott is possibly the most talented player in the Spartans secondary. Just a sophomore, Scott shined bright in his debut season, finishing with 10 PBU and 2 INT. Safety David Dowell had an All-Big Ten season in 2017. Dowell finished with 52 tackles and 5 INT. Matt Coughlin and Jake Hartbarger return as kicker and punter.
Mark Dantonio is quietly one of the better coaches in college football. His Michigan State team is a contender to win the conference and has a shot at making a second playoff appearance. Michigan State opens with Utah State and travels to Arizona State in the non-conference. Michigan State avoids playing Wisconsin out of the West, getting Northwestern, Purdue, and Nebraska instead. The Spartans also get both Ohio State and Michigan at home. All signs are pointing towards a potential B1G East crown for Michigan State. However, I have them sitting in 3rd but still winning 10 games.
Michigan State fielded one of the better defenses in the country last season. Sparty allowed just 95.3 yards rushing yards per game, good for 2nd in the nation. 5 starters in the defensive front 7 return for 2018. Kenny Willekes dominated the outside edge, finishing with a team high in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (7.5). Raequan Williams was a key player in defending the run, stuffing the neutral zone. Joe Bachie and Andrew Dowell led the Spartans in total tackles. Bachie hit triple digits (100) and Dowell added 74. Josiah Scott is possibly the most talented player in the Spartans secondary. Just a sophomore, Scott shined bright in his debut season, finishing with 10 PBU and 2 INT. Safety David Dowell had an All-Big Ten season in 2017. Dowell finished with 52 tackles and 5 INT. Matt Coughlin and Jake Hartbarger return as kicker and punter.
Mark Dantonio is quietly one of the better coaches in college football. His Michigan State team is a contender to win the conference and has a shot at making a second playoff appearance. Michigan State opens with Utah State and travels to Arizona State in the non-conference. Michigan State avoids playing Wisconsin out of the West, getting Northwestern, Purdue, and Nebraska instead. The Spartans also get both Ohio State and Michigan at home. All signs are pointing towards a potential B1G East crown for Michigan State. However, I have them sitting in 3rd but still winning 10 games.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Brian Lewerke, JR, QB
Rushing
LJ Scott, SR, RB
Receiving
Felton Davis III, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
David Dowell, JR, S
Sacks
Kenny Willekes, JR, DE
Tackles
Joe Bachie, JR, MLB
#4 Penn State 8-4 (5-4)
Coach: James Franklin
Offensive Coordinator: Ricky Rahne
Defensive Coordinator: Brent Pry and Tim Banks
Stadium: Beaver Stadium (106,572)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-2
2016 11-3
2015 7-6
2014 7-6
2013 7-5
Offensive Coordinator: Ricky Rahne
Defensive Coordinator: Brent Pry and Tim Banks
Stadium: Beaver Stadium (106,572)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-2
2016 11-3
2015 7-6
2014 7-6
2013 7-5
Overview
James Franklin has officially turned around the Penn State program. Back to back 11-win seasons have the fans in Happy Valley ready for a major breakthrough. Penn State lost key players like Saquon Barkley, DaeSean Hamilton and Mike Gesicki. Penn State does return star QB Trace McSorley. McSorley can beat you with his arm and his legs. He threw for over 3,500 yards while completing 67% of his passes. He rushed for 491 yards and had 39 total touchdowns. Miles Sanders will be the man looking to replace Saquon Barkley. Sanders really hasn’t seen many opportunities but he’s averaged over 6 yards per carry in his career. Juwan Johnson will bump up to the top wideout for the Nittany Lions. Johnson is coming off a season where he caught 54 passes for 701 yards. DeAndre Thompkins averaged over 15 yards per catch on 28 receptions in ‘17. Freshman Justin Shorter figures to be in the starting rotation for Penn State. Most importantly, Penn State returns 4 offensive line starters this season.
Penn State is looking to replace 7 of its top 8 tacklers from last season. Penn State returns just a few starters this season. Shareef Miller is one of those starters and he’s a good one to have back. Miller led the Penn State defense in sacks (5), tackles for loss (6) and QBH (9). Koa Farmer returns as Penn State’s top returning tackler with 48. Ellis Brooks and Micah Parsons are a couple of freshmen that could see plenty of snaps at the linebacker position. Parsons was the top recruit for the Nittany Lions and there is a ton of buzz surrounding him. John Reid and Amani Oruwariye are two solid cornerbacks. Oruwariye (All-B1G selection) led the Nittany Lions with 8 PBU and Reid is returning from a season ending injury. Punter Blake Gillikin is one of the best in the conference.
This season will be an interesting one for the Nittany Lions. There is no shortage of talent across the board in Happy Valley. The biggest question is can all the pieces come together and make this young team a contender. Playing in the B1G East is unforgiving and they draw two of the better teams from the West (Wisconsin, Iowa). Penn State has only one real tough road game this season, at Michigan. Penn State hosts Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Michigan State. Those will be must-win games if they want to capture their second B1G Championship in three seasons. I’m going to be cautious with my expectations for Penn State this season. 10 wins feels like the ceiling so I’m calling for 8 wins.
Penn State is looking to replace 7 of its top 8 tacklers from last season. Penn State returns just a few starters this season. Shareef Miller is one of those starters and he’s a good one to have back. Miller led the Penn State defense in sacks (5), tackles for loss (6) and QBH (9). Koa Farmer returns as Penn State’s top returning tackler with 48. Ellis Brooks and Micah Parsons are a couple of freshmen that could see plenty of snaps at the linebacker position. Parsons was the top recruit for the Nittany Lions and there is a ton of buzz surrounding him. John Reid and Amani Oruwariye are two solid cornerbacks. Oruwariye (All-B1G selection) led the Nittany Lions with 8 PBU and Reid is returning from a season ending injury. Punter Blake Gillikin is one of the best in the conference.
This season will be an interesting one for the Nittany Lions. There is no shortage of talent across the board in Happy Valley. The biggest question is can all the pieces come together and make this young team a contender. Playing in the B1G East is unforgiving and they draw two of the better teams from the West (Wisconsin, Iowa). Penn State has only one real tough road game this season, at Michigan. Penn State hosts Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Michigan State. Those will be must-win games if they want to capture their second B1G Championship in three seasons. I’m going to be cautious with my expectations for Penn State this season. 10 wins feels like the ceiling so I’m calling for 8 wins.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Trace McSorley, SR, QB
Rushing
Trace McSorley, SR, QB
Receiving
Juwan Johnson, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Amani Oruwariye, SR, CB
Sacks
Shareef Miller, JR, DE
Tackles
Koa Farmer, SR, OLB
#5T Rutgers 6-6 (3-6)
Coach: Chris Ash
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Mcnulty
Defensive Coordinator: Jay Niemann and Noah Joseph
Stadium: High Point Solutions Stadium (52,454)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 2-10
2015 4-8
2014 8-5
2013 6-7
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Mcnulty
Defensive Coordinator: Jay Niemann and Noah Joseph
Stadium: High Point Solutions Stadium (52,454)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 2-10
2015 4-8
2014 8-5
2013 6-7
Overview
Rutgers made some progress in year two under Chris Ash. Rutgers won 3 conference games after not winning a single one in 2016. Rutgers returns a 15 starters on offense and defense for 2018. Giovanni Rescigno could start the season as the QB for the Scarlet Knights. Rescigno is being pushed by incoming freshman Artur Sitkowski for the job. Rutgers picked up grad transfer Jon Hillman from Boston College after losing their top two running backs. Raheem Blackshear should still see plenty of carries this season. The passing game was non-existent last season and is a focus this season. Tight end Jerome Washington led Rutgers in receiving with just 28 catches. Rutgers adds Eddie Lewis (incoming freshman) and have talented wide outs like Bo Melton and Everett Wormley.
Rutgers still finished near the bottom in most defensive categories in 2017. Rutgers returns some of its best talent on that side of the ball for 2018. Kevin Wilkins is the Knights best pass rusher on the defensive line. Jon Bateky and Manny Taylor are a couple of tanks that are going to stuff the run this season. Trevor Morris and Deonte Roberts return for their senior seasons. The duo combined for 222 tackles in 2017. Rutgers have a nice group of cornerbacks in Isaiah Wharton, Tre Avery, Damon Hayes, and Blessuan Austin. KJ Gray finished last season with 47 tackles and a couple of INT.
The biggest question entering the new season is can Rutgers build upon all the good things from last season. Rutgers can definitely compete with the bottom half of the conference. They beat a very good Purdue team a year ago. Rutgers draw Illinois and NW at home from the West but visits Wisconsin. The 3-game stretch of Indiana, Illinois, and at Maryland will be their best opportunities for wins. The final four games are brutal, at Wisconsin, Michigan, Penn State and at Michigan State. I have Rutgers shocking some of the pundits this season and reaching 6 wins for a bowl appearance. I am a believer in what Chris Ash is building in New Brunswick.
Rutgers still finished near the bottom in most defensive categories in 2017. Rutgers returns some of its best talent on that side of the ball for 2018. Kevin Wilkins is the Knights best pass rusher on the defensive line. Jon Bateky and Manny Taylor are a couple of tanks that are going to stuff the run this season. Trevor Morris and Deonte Roberts return for their senior seasons. The duo combined for 222 tackles in 2017. Rutgers have a nice group of cornerbacks in Isaiah Wharton, Tre Avery, Damon Hayes, and Blessuan Austin. KJ Gray finished last season with 47 tackles and a couple of INT.
The biggest question entering the new season is can Rutgers build upon all the good things from last season. Rutgers can definitely compete with the bottom half of the conference. They beat a very good Purdue team a year ago. Rutgers draw Illinois and NW at home from the West but visits Wisconsin. The 3-game stretch of Indiana, Illinois, and at Maryland will be their best opportunities for wins. The final four games are brutal, at Wisconsin, Michigan, Penn State and at Michigan State. I have Rutgers shocking some of the pundits this season and reaching 6 wins for a bowl appearance. I am a believer in what Chris Ash is building in New Brunswick.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Giovanni Rescigno, SR, QB
Rushing
Raheem Blackshear, SO, RB
Receiving
Jerome Washington, SR, TE
Defense
Interceptions
K.J. Gray, JR, S
Sacks
Three Players tied at 1.5
Tackles
Trevor Morris, SR, LB
Passing
Giovanni Rescigno, SR, QB
Rushing
Raheem Blackshear, SO, RB
Receiving
Jerome Washington, SR, TE
Defense
Interceptions
K.J. Gray, JR, S
Sacks
Three Players tied at 1.5
Tackles
Trevor Morris, SR, LB
#5T Maryland 5-7 (3-6)
Coach: D.J. Durkin
Offensive Coordinator: Chris Beaty and Matt Canada
Defensive Coordinator: Andy Buh and Jimmy Brumbaugh
Stadium: Maryland Stadium (51,802)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 6-7
2015 3-9
2014 7-6
2013 7-6
Offensive Coordinator: Chris Beaty and Matt Canada
Defensive Coordinator: Andy Buh and Jimmy Brumbaugh
Stadium: Maryland Stadium (51,802)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 6-7
2015 3-9
2014 7-6
2013 7-6
Overview
Kasim Hill returns from an ACL injury and Tyrrell Pigrome returns as well to lead the Maryland Terrapins this season. Hill and Pigrome are excited QB’s, either will be able to keep Maryland competitive in the majority of games. Ty Johnson will benefit from having one of those mobile QB’s back under center. Johnson averaged 6.4 yards per carry, to go along with 5 rushing TD. Maryland loses top wide receiver DJ Moore but returns Taivon Jacobs. Jacobs finished behind Moore with 47 catches but should solidify himself as the top receiver on the roster. Maryland returns all five starting offensive lineman.
Defensively, the Terrapins were one of the worst in the Big Ten in ‘17. Maryland returns just a handful of starters but have added big time transfers this season. One of those transfers is former 5-star defensive end Byron Cowart from Auburn. Antoine Brooks is the top returning tackler with 77 and 8.5 for loss. Brooks and Isaiah Davis give Maryland two productive linebackers in the middle of the defense. Maryland returns 2 starters in the secondary and brings in Florida State transfer Marcus Lewis. Safety Darnell Savage led the Terps in INT (3) and is one of the true leaders for the defense. Wade Lees struggled with punting duties last season.
Maryland is one of the more interesting teams in the nation. I don’t expect Maryland to come out and win 8-9 games but there is a chance for them to compete with the better teams in the conference. **Edit: As I mention that, Maryland is currently experiencing a scandal with coaches and the issue of player abuse.** However, despite the issue that Durkin may no longer be head coach, I still like the roster. Maryland opens with Texas and also hosts Temple in the non-conference. Maryland should be able to win games against Rutgers, Illinois, Minnesota and at Indiana. They could possibly steal a win at Iowa or at home against Michigan State. Maryland has an opportunity to return to bowl season, but I think they’ll come up shy.
Defensively, the Terrapins were one of the worst in the Big Ten in ‘17. Maryland returns just a handful of starters but have added big time transfers this season. One of those transfers is former 5-star defensive end Byron Cowart from Auburn. Antoine Brooks is the top returning tackler with 77 and 8.5 for loss. Brooks and Isaiah Davis give Maryland two productive linebackers in the middle of the defense. Maryland returns 2 starters in the secondary and brings in Florida State transfer Marcus Lewis. Safety Darnell Savage led the Terps in INT (3) and is one of the true leaders for the defense. Wade Lees struggled with punting duties last season.
Maryland is one of the more interesting teams in the nation. I don’t expect Maryland to come out and win 8-9 games but there is a chance for them to compete with the better teams in the conference. **Edit: As I mention that, Maryland is currently experiencing a scandal with coaches and the issue of player abuse.** However, despite the issue that Durkin may no longer be head coach, I still like the roster. Maryland opens with Texas and also hosts Temple in the non-conference. Maryland should be able to win games against Rutgers, Illinois, Minnesota and at Indiana. They could possibly steal a win at Iowa or at home against Michigan State. Maryland has an opportunity to return to bowl season, but I think they’ll come up shy.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Max Bortenschlager, JR, QB
Rushing
Ty Johnson, SR, RB
Receiving
Taivon Jacobs, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Darnell Savage, SR, S
Sacks
Keiron Howard, JR, DL
Tackles
Antoine Brooks Jr., JR, NB
Passing
Max Bortenschlager, JR, QB
Rushing
Ty Johnson, SR, RB
Receiving
Taivon Jacobs, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Darnell Savage, SR, S
Sacks
Keiron Howard, JR, DL
Tackles
Antoine Brooks Jr., JR, NB
#7 Indiana 4-8 (1-8)
Coach:Tom Allen
Offensive Coordinator: Mike DeBord
Defensive Coordinator: Tom Allen and Mark Hagen
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (52,929)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 6-7
2015 6-7
2014 4-8
2013 5-7
Offensive Coordinator: Mike DeBord
Defensive Coordinator: Tom Allen and Mark Hagen
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (52,929)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 6-7
2015 6-7
2014 4-8
2013 5-7
Overview
Tom Allen enters his second season at the helm with a team full of question marks. Indiana brings in grad transer Brandon Dawkins from Arizona. Dawkins posted good numbers before being injured and losing his starting spot to Khalil Tate. Dawkins ran for 459 yards and 8 TD, he completed 61% of his passes. Morgan Ellison started 8 games at running back as a true freshman for the Hoosiers. Ellison gained 704 on the ground and averaged 5 yards per carry. With Dawkins in the mix, the Hoosiers run game should improve this season. Senior Luke Timian finished with All-Big 10 honors after finishing with 68 receptions. Nick Westbrook is the most talented receiver on the roster, he returns after an injury last season. Four offensive lineman return, including big time left tackle Coy Cronk.
Indiana fielded one of the better defenses in the nation last season. Tom Allen is losing a ton of those players for the 2018 season. Indiana must replace its top 3 tacklers. Jacob Robinson is one of the better players returning for the defense. At the DT position, Robinson finished with 26 tackles and 4 sacks. Allen Stallings is good enough to double his sack total from ‘17. The linebacker position was hit hardest by the departing players. Marcelino Ball is the most talented at the position, he returns from an injury last season. Jonathan Crawford is the veteran of the defense and the most experienced. Crawford leads all returning players with 62 tackles and 8 PBU at safety.
Indiana enters the season with question marks across the board and playing in arguably the toughest division in college football. If Brandon Dawkins doesn’t spark the offense, it could be a long season in Bloomington. IU opens at FIU and then hosts Virginia and Ball State to finish out the non-conference. Indiana travels to Rutgers, Ohio State, Minnesota, and Michigan. There are a couple winnable games there. Add in home games against Maryland and Purdue, IU has an opportunity to win 4 B1G games. However, I am not optimistic for a winning season for the Hoosiers. I’m not projecting a bowl game this season for Indiana.
Indiana fielded one of the better defenses in the nation last season. Tom Allen is losing a ton of those players for the 2018 season. Indiana must replace its top 3 tacklers. Jacob Robinson is one of the better players returning for the defense. At the DT position, Robinson finished with 26 tackles and 4 sacks. Allen Stallings is good enough to double his sack total from ‘17. The linebacker position was hit hardest by the departing players. Marcelino Ball is the most talented at the position, he returns from an injury last season. Jonathan Crawford is the veteran of the defense and the most experienced. Crawford leads all returning players with 62 tackles and 8 PBU at safety.
Indiana enters the season with question marks across the board and playing in arguably the toughest division in college football. If Brandon Dawkins doesn’t spark the offense, it could be a long season in Bloomington. IU opens at FIU and then hosts Virginia and Ball State to finish out the non-conference. Indiana travels to Rutgers, Ohio State, Minnesota, and Michigan. There are a couple winnable games there. Add in home games against Maryland and Purdue, IU has an opportunity to win 4 B1G games. However, I am not optimistic for a winning season for the Hoosiers. I’m not projecting a bowl game this season for Indiana.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Peyton Ramsey, SO, QB
Rushing
Morgan Ellison, SO, RB
Receiving
Luke Timian, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jonathan Crawford, SR, S
Sacks
Jacob Robinson, SR, DT
Tackles
Jonathan Crawford, SR, S
Passing
Peyton Ramsey, SO, QB
Rushing
Morgan Ellison, SO, RB
Receiving
Luke Timian, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jonathan Crawford, SR, S
Sacks
Jacob Robinson, SR, DT
Tackles
Jonathan Crawford, SR, S
West
#1 Wisconsin 12-0 (9-0)
Coach: Paul Chryst
Offensive Coordinator: Joe Rudolph
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Leonhard
Stadium: Camp Randall Stadium (80,321)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 13-1
2016 11-3
2015 10-3
2014 11-3
2013 9-4
Offensive Coordinator: Joe Rudolph
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Leonhard
Stadium: Camp Randall Stadium (80,321)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 13-1
2016 11-3
2015 10-3
2014 11-3
2013 9-4
Overview
Paul Chryst continued his winning ways in Madison last season. Wisconsin finished with 13 wins after displaying a punishing run game and having one of the best defenses in the nation. Not much has changed and teams should expect a heavy dose of the same this season. Alex Hornibrook played well after being awarded the starting job. Hornibrook fired 25 TD, with 2,644 yards. Jonathan Taylor burst onto the national scene as a true freshman. Taylor ran for 1,977 yards, on an average of 6.6 per carry and 13 scores. Taylor is running behind the best offensive line in college football. Wisconsin’s line including 4 All-Big 10 performers and 2 All-Americans (Beau Benzschawel and David Edwards). Wisconsin’s wideouts don’t receive much attention but Quintez Cephus is a playmaker on the outside.
Wisconsin loses a large number of defensive starters and producers but they should still be considered one of the best in the B1G. TJ Edwards and Ryan Connelly both return at LB. The fantastic duo combined for 17 tackles for loss and 169 tackles. Andrew Van Ginkel added 6.5 sacks last season. Wisconsin’s linebackers are one of the best units in the nation. D’Cota Dixon is the only senior in a young secondary. Dixon is an NFL talent and one of the top safeties in college football. Sophomore Dontye Carriere-Williams has a chance to blossom into the next great Defensive back at Wisconsin.
Wisconsin continues to dominate the B1G West division and this season should be no different. Wisconsin opens the season with WKU, New Mexico, and BYU all at home. Wisconsin opens B1G play at Iowa, they’ll play Michigan, Northwestern, Penn State and Purdue all on the road. Wisconsin could easily hit a few roadblocks on their way to another Big 10 Championship appearance. Jonathan Taylor is my pick for the Heisman Trophy and I expect him to put up bigger numbers from last season. Wisconsin has a great chance to reach the CFP, even with 1 loss. The Badgers will end up in a New Year’s 6 game once again after coming up short against the East winner.
Wisconsin loses a large number of defensive starters and producers but they should still be considered one of the best in the B1G. TJ Edwards and Ryan Connelly both return at LB. The fantastic duo combined for 17 tackles for loss and 169 tackles. Andrew Van Ginkel added 6.5 sacks last season. Wisconsin’s linebackers are one of the best units in the nation. D’Cota Dixon is the only senior in a young secondary. Dixon is an NFL talent and one of the top safeties in college football. Sophomore Dontye Carriere-Williams has a chance to blossom into the next great Defensive back at Wisconsin.
Wisconsin continues to dominate the B1G West division and this season should be no different. Wisconsin opens the season with WKU, New Mexico, and BYU all at home. Wisconsin opens B1G play at Iowa, they’ll play Michigan, Northwestern, Penn State and Purdue all on the road. Wisconsin could easily hit a few roadblocks on their way to another Big 10 Championship appearance. Jonathan Taylor is my pick for the Heisman Trophy and I expect him to put up bigger numbers from last season. Wisconsin has a great chance to reach the CFP, even with 1 loss. The Badgers will end up in a New Year’s 6 game once again after coming up short against the East winner.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Alex Hornibrook, JR, QB
Rushing
Jonathan Taylor, SO, RB
Receiving
A.J. Taylor, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
T.J. Edwards, SR, LB
Sacks
Andrew Van Ginkel, SR, OLB
Tackles
Ryan Connelly, SR, LB
Passing
Alex Hornibrook, JR, QB
Rushing
Jonathan Taylor, SO, RB
Receiving
A.J. Taylor, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
T.J. Edwards, SR, LB
Sacks
Andrew Van Ginkel, SR, OLB
Tackles
Ryan Connelly, SR, LB
#2 Purdue 8-4 (6-3)
Coach: Jeff Brohm
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Brohm and JaMarcus Shepherd
Defensive Coordinator: Nick Holt and Anthony Poindexter
Stadium: Ross-Ade Stadium (57,236)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 3-9
2015 2-10
2014 3-9
2013 1-11
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Brohm and JaMarcus Shepherd
Defensive Coordinator: Nick Holt and Anthony Poindexter
Stadium: Ross-Ade Stadium (57,236)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 3-9
2015 2-10
2014 3-9
2013 1-11
Overview
Purdue snapped a 4-year postseason drought in year one under Jeff Brohm. Brohm’s debut season was an overwhelming success and he has ignited the Boiler faithful. Purdue returns most of the offensive starters from last season. Elijah Sindelar and David Blough continue to battle for the starting QB job. Both QB’s are capable of leading this team to a second straight bowl appearance. Markell Jones and Tario Fuller appears to be the top two backs in the offense but don’t sleep on the speedy DJ Knox. Jackson Anthrop led the Boilermakers in receptions with 47. TE Cole Herdman could play a significant role in the passing game this season. Purdue returns 4 starting offensive lineman.
Purdue took a big step forward on the defensive side of the ball. They’ll need to replace a bulk of the production from last season. Lorenzo Neal will need to set the tone up front early in the season. Neal is the only returning starter on the defensive line and will be surrounded by inexperienced players. Markus Bailey was arguably the best player on the Purdue defense in ‘17. He returns after posting 87 tackles and a team high 7 sacks. Derrick Barnes and Tobias Larry are two young sophomores who should hold down the other starting linebacker jobs. Navon Mosley and Jacob Thieneman give a veteran presence to an otherwise young secondary. Joe Schopper returns at punter.
Purdue is in an interesting spot this season. The Boilermaker offense should be on of the best in the BIG-West. The 5-game road conference schedule could be a problem but I’d argue that Purdue is better than 4 of the 5 teams. Purdue hosts Missouri in a big non-conference game. Northwestern visits West Lafayette to open the season. Outside of Ohio State, Michigan State and Wisconsin, Purdue could win every game on its schedule. If the defense can continue to get better, the Boilermakers should be able to finish as high as 2nd in the West.
Purdue took a big step forward on the defensive side of the ball. They’ll need to replace a bulk of the production from last season. Lorenzo Neal will need to set the tone up front early in the season. Neal is the only returning starter on the defensive line and will be surrounded by inexperienced players. Markus Bailey was arguably the best player on the Purdue defense in ‘17. He returns after posting 87 tackles and a team high 7 sacks. Derrick Barnes and Tobias Larry are two young sophomores who should hold down the other starting linebacker jobs. Navon Mosley and Jacob Thieneman give a veteran presence to an otherwise young secondary. Joe Schopper returns at punter.
Purdue is in an interesting spot this season. The Boilermaker offense should be on of the best in the BIG-West. The 5-game road conference schedule could be a problem but I’d argue that Purdue is better than 4 of the 5 teams. Purdue hosts Missouri in a big non-conference game. Northwestern visits West Lafayette to open the season. Outside of Ohio State, Michigan State and Wisconsin, Purdue could win every game on its schedule. If the defense can continue to get better, the Boilermakers should be able to finish as high as 2nd in the West.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Elijah Sindelar, JR, QB
Rushing
Markell Jones, SR, RB
Receiving
Jackson Anthrop, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jacob Thieneman, SR, S and Navon Mosley, JR, S
Sacks
Markus Bailey, JR, LB
Tackles
Markus Bailey, JR, LB
Passing
Elijah Sindelar, JR, QB
Rushing
Markell Jones, SR, RB
Receiving
Jackson Anthrop, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jacob Thieneman, SR, S and Navon Mosley, JR, S
Sacks
Markus Bailey, JR, LB
Tackles
Markus Bailey, JR, LB
#3 Iowa 8-4 (5-4)
Coach: Kirk Ferentz
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Ferentz
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Parker
Stadium: Kinnick Stadium (70,585)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 8-5
2015 12-2
2014 7-6
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Ferentz
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Parker
Stadium: Kinnick Stadium (70,585)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 8-5
2015 12-2
2014 7-6
2013 8-5
Overview
Iowa lost 3 of their 5 games by one possession in 2017. Iowa’s 31 point win over #3 Ohio State may have been the most impressive win in all of college football last season. Kirk Ferentz is entering the season with a talented group of Hawkeyes. Nate Stanley returns at QB looking to prove he is one of the elite in the B1G. Stanley completed 56% of his passes for 2,437 and 26 TD to only 6 INT. Toren Young will be the featured back in the Hawkeyes backfield. Ivory Kelly-Martin is a dynamic runner and could push Young for the starting job. Nick Easley led the Hawkeyes in receiving with 51 catches and 530 yards. Noah Fant is one of the best tight ends in the country. Fant averaged 16.5 yards per catch and had 10 TD. Tristan Wirfs and Alaric Jackson are two very talented sophomores on the Iowa offensive line.
Iowa is going to have to replace a handful of key pieces from last season. Josey Jewell and Josh Jackson are the biggest names that have departed. Anthony Nelson returns after posting a career year with 7.5 sacks, good enough for the team high. AJ Epenesa showed flashes of greatness in his freshman season. Iowa loses their entire group of starting linebackers. Brandon Snyder returns from an ACL injury to head the secondary. Matt Hankins will have a chance for a breakout season with Jackson gone. Miguel Recinos attempted just 13 FG’s, converting on 11, last season.
Iowa will not leave Iowa City until October 6. The Hawkeyes open with MAC West favorite Northern Illinois and then host Iowa State. Iowa opens conference play with Wisconsin. Iowa has to play 5 games on the road in conference. Luckily for Iowa, those games are very winnable. There can be a case made with Iowa potentially winning as many as 10 games this season. I played it safe and went with a solid 8-4 regular season but this is one team to keep an eye on.
Iowa is going to have to replace a handful of key pieces from last season. Josey Jewell and Josh Jackson are the biggest names that have departed. Anthony Nelson returns after posting a career year with 7.5 sacks, good enough for the team high. AJ Epenesa showed flashes of greatness in his freshman season. Iowa loses their entire group of starting linebackers. Brandon Snyder returns from an ACL injury to head the secondary. Matt Hankins will have a chance for a breakout season with Jackson gone. Miguel Recinos attempted just 13 FG’s, converting on 11, last season.
Iowa will not leave Iowa City until October 6. The Hawkeyes open with MAC West favorite Northern Illinois and then host Iowa State. Iowa opens conference play with Wisconsin. Iowa has to play 5 games on the road in conference. Luckily for Iowa, those games are very winnable. There can be a case made with Iowa potentially winning as many as 10 games this season. I played it safe and went with a solid 8-4 regular season but this is one team to keep an eye on.
Top Returning Players
Offense
Passing
Nate Stanley, JR, QB
Rushing
Toren Young, SO, RB
Receiving
Nick Easley, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jake Gervase, SR, S
Sacks
Anthony Nelson, JR, DE
Tackles
Jake Gervase, SR, S
Passing
Nate Stanley, JR, QB
Rushing
Toren Young, SO, RB
Receiving
Nick Easley, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jake Gervase, SR, S
Sacks
Anthony Nelson, JR, DE
Tackles
Jake Gervase, SR, S
#4 Northwestern 6-6 (4-5)
Coach: Pat Fitzgerald
Offensive Coordinator: Mick McCall
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Hankwitz
Stadium: Ryan Field (47,130)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 7-6
2015 10-3
2014 5-7
2013 5-7
Offensive Coordinator: Mick McCall
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Hankwitz
Stadium: Ryan Field (47,130)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 7-6
2015 10-3
2014 5-7
2013 5-7
Overview
Northwestern enters the 2018 season fresh off of a 10-win season. After a 2-3 start, the Wildcats rallied with 8 straight wins. Offensively, the Wildcats return 7 starters. QB Clayton Thorson figures to be one of the top QB’s in the B1G. Thorson threw for 2,844 yards and 15 TD, adding 8 rushing TD. Justin Jackson is going to be missed but Jeremy Larkin emerged as a pretty solid replacement. Larkin averaged 6 yards per carry as backup in ‘17. Bennett Skowronek and Flynn Nagel led NW in receiving last season. Both return after combining for 93 receptions. Four starting offensive lineman return for the Wildcats.
Northwestern had one of the top defenses in the country, especially against the run. The Wildcats rushing defense was 4th in the conference but 9th in the country. 5 starters return in the front seven, making NW one of the best units in the B1G. Joe Gaziano was an all-conference performer after recording 9 sacks and 12 hurries in ‘17. Samdup Miller added 5.5 sacks and one of the best freshman defensive ends in the country. Paddy Fisher led the Wildcats with 113 tackles, 9 for loss in his freshman season. Nate Hall gives NW a solid linebacker corps, Hall finished with a team high 11.5 tackles for loss. Montre Hartage is the top cat in the secondary.
Northwestern continues to be one of the top programs in the B1G West. This season should be no different, this is team capable with competing with every team on the schedule. NW opens the season at Purdue for a huge B1G showdown. A win there, NW will be the biggest challenger to Wisconsin. NW will look to avenge last seasons loss to Duke. NW draws Michigan and Michigan State out of the East. They will host Wisconsin and Notre Dame in consecutive weeks. There is plenty of talent for Pat Fitzgerald’s team. The schedule is tougher than last season, making a 10-win season seem unlikely. Expect to see the Wildcats make their 4th straight bowl game.
Northwestern had one of the top defenses in the country, especially against the run. The Wildcats rushing defense was 4th in the conference but 9th in the country. 5 starters return in the front seven, making NW one of the best units in the B1G. Joe Gaziano was an all-conference performer after recording 9 sacks and 12 hurries in ‘17. Samdup Miller added 5.5 sacks and one of the best freshman defensive ends in the country. Paddy Fisher led the Wildcats with 113 tackles, 9 for loss in his freshman season. Nate Hall gives NW a solid linebacker corps, Hall finished with a team high 11.5 tackles for loss. Montre Hartage is the top cat in the secondary.
Northwestern continues to be one of the top programs in the B1G West. This season should be no different, this is team capable with competing with every team on the schedule. NW opens the season at Purdue for a huge B1G showdown. A win there, NW will be the biggest challenger to Wisconsin. NW will look to avenge last seasons loss to Duke. NW draws Michigan and Michigan State out of the East. They will host Wisconsin and Notre Dame in consecutive weeks. There is plenty of talent for Pat Fitzgerald’s team. The schedule is tougher than last season, making a 10-win season seem unlikely. Expect to see the Wildcats make their 4th straight bowl game.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Clayton Thorson, SR, QB
Rushing
Jeremy Larkin, SO, RB
Receiving
Flynn Nagel, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Montre Hartage, SR, CB
Sacks
Joe Gaziano, JR, DE
Tackles
Paddy Fisher, SO, LB
Passing
Clayton Thorson, SR, QB
Rushing
Jeremy Larkin, SO, RB
Receiving
Flynn Nagel, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Montre Hartage, SR, CB
Sacks
Joe Gaziano, JR, DE
Tackles
Paddy Fisher, SO, LB
#5T Minnesota 5-7 (2-7)
Coach: PJ Fleck
Offensive Coordinator: Kirk Ciarrocca
Defensive Coordinator: Robb Smith
Stadium: TCF Bank Stadium (50,805)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 8-5
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Kirk Ciarrocca
Defensive Coordinator: Robb Smith
Stadium: TCF Bank Stadium (50,805)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 8-5
2013 8-5
Overview
PJ Fleck would be the first to admit that a 5 win season isn’t what he came to Minnesota for. After a 3-0 non-conference start, the Gophers won just two games in B1G play. The last two games were losses by a combined 70-0 score. Freshman Tanner Morgan will look to lead a turnaround for the Gophers. Morgan will have one of the top running backs in the B1G, Rodney Smith. Smith fell just shy of a 1,000 yard rushing season behind a mediocre offensive line. Tyler Johnson led Minnesota in receptions (35), yards (677), and TD (7). Minnesota returns four offensive lineman, two of which are sophomores.
Defensively, the Golden Gophers weren’t that bad in 2017. As a whole, the defense finished 30th nationally in total defense. Seven starters return from that group, including leading tackler Thomas Barber, who finished with 115 tackles, 9 for loss. DE Carter Coughlin led the Gophers with 6.5 sacks. Alabama transfer OJ Smith could play a big role in the run defense. Thomas Barber is another stout linebacker in the middle. Chris Williamson transferred in from Florida and provides a boost to the secondary. Emmit Carpenter converted 14 of 20 FG’s last season.
Minnesota should be able to improve on both sides of the ball from last season. The defense is going to be one of the better groups in the Big Ten. QB concerns may slow the progress of the strides this team could make. New Mexico State, Fresno State and Miami (OH) will be no easy task in the non-conference. Minnesota also goes on the road 5 times in B1G play (including Ohio State & Wisconsin). Iowa, Purdue, and Northwestern will be tough matchups at home. The Big Ten continues to get better overall and there are no easy wins on this schedule. I would put Minnesota’s win ceiling at 7. A bowl appearance would be a nice momentum boost to the program as they continue to bring in solid talent.
Defensively, the Golden Gophers weren’t that bad in 2017. As a whole, the defense finished 30th nationally in total defense. Seven starters return from that group, including leading tackler Thomas Barber, who finished with 115 tackles, 9 for loss. DE Carter Coughlin led the Gophers with 6.5 sacks. Alabama transfer OJ Smith could play a big role in the run defense. Thomas Barber is another stout linebacker in the middle. Chris Williamson transferred in from Florida and provides a boost to the secondary. Emmit Carpenter converted 14 of 20 FG’s last season.
Minnesota should be able to improve on both sides of the ball from last season. The defense is going to be one of the better groups in the Big Ten. QB concerns may slow the progress of the strides this team could make. New Mexico State, Fresno State and Miami (OH) will be no easy task in the non-conference. Minnesota also goes on the road 5 times in B1G play (including Ohio State & Wisconsin). Iowa, Purdue, and Northwestern will be tough matchups at home. The Big Ten continues to get better overall and there are no easy wins on this schedule. I would put Minnesota’s win ceiling at 7. A bowl appearance would be a nice momentum boost to the program as they continue to bring in solid talent.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
None
Rushing
Rodney Smith, SR, RB
Receiving
Tyler Johnson, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jacob Huff, SR, S
Sacks
Carter Coughlin, JR, DE
Tackles
Thomas Barber, JR, LB
Passing
None
Rushing
Rodney Smith, SR, RB
Receiving
Tyler Johnson, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jacob Huff, SR, S
Sacks
Carter Coughlin, JR, DE
Tackles
Thomas Barber, JR, LB
#5T Nebraska 5-7 (2-7)
Coach: Scott Frost
Offensive Coordinator: Troy Walters
Defensive Coordinator: Erik Chinander
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (86,047)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 9-4
2013 9-4
Offensive Coordinator: Troy Walters
Defensive Coordinator: Erik Chinander
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (86,047)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 9-4
2013 9-4
Overview
The Scott Frost era has officially started in Lincoln. Cornhusker nation is hopeful with the return of Frost and he has a pretty talented squad. Freshman Adrian Martinez appears to be the quarterback to kick things off. Martinez is a dual threat prospect who will have a couple of solid receivers starting out. Stanley Morgan is one of the top wide receivers in the Big Ten. Morgan finished 2017 with 61 catches, 10 TD and 986 yards. JD Spielman (55,830) had a solid freshman season, earning all-conference honors. Greg Bell and Tre Bryant will be the featured backs in the run game. Four offensive lineman return.
Nebraska had one of the worst defenses in the conference in ‘17. DE Freedom Akinmoladun took a major step backwards following a breakout 2016 season. Carlos Davis and Ben Stille both had better seasons at the defensive end position and should play key roles on the front line. Dedrick Young returns for his senior season. Young is the top tackler (80) returning for the Cornhuskers. There are three returning starters in the secondary. The group was a bit lackluster over the 2017 season. There is some talent on this side of ball, but overall, it’s one of worst groups in the conference.
Scott Frost will have his work cut out for him for the first couple of seasons. Mike Riley left the program in a terrible spot. I can see this season going like PJ Fleck’s did at Minnesota last year. Frost is an exciting young coach but it will take time to develop his own talent. Nebraska should start the new season 3-0. That’s where the fun will end. Nebraska plays Michigan, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Ohio State, and Iowa all on the road. Drawing Michigan State as their final opponent out of the East is tough sledding. Purdue, Minnesota, and Illinois are all winneable games, I’m just not sure they get them all. A bowl appearance would be a huge win for the Frost in year one. The schedule is tough and I’m not finding more than 6 wins for the Cornhuskers.
Nebraska had one of the worst defenses in the conference in ‘17. DE Freedom Akinmoladun took a major step backwards following a breakout 2016 season. Carlos Davis and Ben Stille both had better seasons at the defensive end position and should play key roles on the front line. Dedrick Young returns for his senior season. Young is the top tackler (80) returning for the Cornhuskers. There are three returning starters in the secondary. The group was a bit lackluster over the 2017 season. There is some talent on this side of ball, but overall, it’s one of worst groups in the conference.
Scott Frost will have his work cut out for him for the first couple of seasons. Mike Riley left the program in a terrible spot. I can see this season going like PJ Fleck’s did at Minnesota last year. Frost is an exciting young coach but it will take time to develop his own talent. Nebraska should start the new season 3-0. That’s where the fun will end. Nebraska plays Michigan, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Ohio State, and Iowa all on the road. Drawing Michigan State as their final opponent out of the East is tough sledding. Purdue, Minnesota, and Illinois are all winneable games, I’m just not sure they get them all. A bowl appearance would be a huge win for the Frost in year one. The schedule is tough and I’m not finding more than 6 wins for the Cornhuskers.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
None
Rushing
Devine Ozigbo, SR, RB
Receiving
Stanley Morgan Jr., SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Aaron Williams, SR, S
Sacks
Ben Stille, SO, DE
Tackles
Dedrick Young II, SR, LB
Passing
None
Rushing
Devine Ozigbo, SR, RB
Receiving
Stanley Morgan Jr., SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Aaron Williams, SR, S
Sacks
Ben Stille, SO, DE
Tackles
Dedrick Young II, SR, LB
#7 Illinois 2-10 (0-9)
Coach: Lovie Smith
Offensive Coordinator: Rod Smith
Defensive Coordinator: Hardy Nickerson
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (60,670)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 3-9
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 4-8
Offensive Coordinator: Rod Smith
Defensive Coordinator: Hardy Nickerson
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (60,670)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 3-9
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 4-8
Overview
Illinois enters the season on a 10-game losing streak and 12-game losing streak in the B1G. Illinois was a doormat for the rest of their conference opponents. Lovie Smith is desperately looking for some improvement from his players. Cam Thomas enters the season as the favroite to start at QB. Thomas made two starts, completing just 42% of his passes and tossing 5 INT and no TD. Thomas will need to improve drastically in the passing game so it will open up his ability to run. Mike Epstein led the Illini in rushing, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. The passing game will get a nice boost with Sheldon Meadors transferring in from App State. Ricky Smalling had 31 catches and 510 yards to led the Illini as a true freshman. TE Louis Dorsey is also one of the best pass catchers on the roster. The offensive line is young but they’ve all had starting experience.
Bobby Roundtree was one of the bright spots on a pretty underwhelming defense in 2017. Roundtree led the Illini with 4 sacks as a true freshman. LB Del’Shawn Phillips returns after leading the team with 85 tackles. Sophomore LB Jake Hansen is a player to keep an eye on. Illinois returns all four starters in the secondary. Bennett Williams finished with 64 tackles and 3 INT, leading to an All-American Freshman award. Like much of the offense, the Fighting Illini defense is full of young players. There are some very good players but the issues of depth will catch up with them.
It’s going to be another long and dismal season in Champaign. Illinois will be favored in their first two games of the season but dogs in the following 10. Lovie Smith has his work cut out for him. Looking at the schedule, Illinois will have a fighting chance at Rutgers and hosting Minnesota. Outside of those two games, I don’t see Illinois competing. I don’t see Lovie Smith losing his job after year 3, but how much longer will the administration stand behind 2-3 win season? There needs to be improvement shown in 2018 so there is hope for the future.
Bobby Roundtree was one of the bright spots on a pretty underwhelming defense in 2017. Roundtree led the Illini with 4 sacks as a true freshman. LB Del’Shawn Phillips returns after leading the team with 85 tackles. Sophomore LB Jake Hansen is a player to keep an eye on. Illinois returns all four starters in the secondary. Bennett Williams finished with 64 tackles and 3 INT, leading to an All-American Freshman award. Like much of the offense, the Fighting Illini defense is full of young players. There are some very good players but the issues of depth will catch up with them.
It’s going to be another long and dismal season in Champaign. Illinois will be favored in their first two games of the season but dogs in the following 10. Lovie Smith has his work cut out for him. Looking at the schedule, Illinois will have a fighting chance at Rutgers and hosting Minnesota. Outside of those two games, I don’t see Illinois competing. I don’t see Lovie Smith losing his job after year 3, but how much longer will the administration stand behind 2-3 win season? There needs to be improvement shown in 2018 so there is hope for the future.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Cam Thomas, SO, QB
Rushing
Mike Epstein, SO, RB
Receiving
Ricky Smalling, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Bennett Williams, SO, S
Sacks
Bobby Roundtree, SO, DE
Tackles
Del'Shawn Philips, SR, LB
Passing
Cam Thomas, SO, QB
Rushing
Mike Epstein, SO, RB
Receiving
Ricky Smalling, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Bennett Williams, SO, S
Sacks
Bobby Roundtree, SO, DE
Tackles
Del'Shawn Philips, SR, LB