Big Ten Football Preview: Michigan State

OFFENSE: Mike Dantonio's offense is led by junior quarterback Connor Cook. He won the job in September and went on to be announced to the second team All Big Ten. With the loss of Bennie Fowler, Cook's targets will be returning starter junior Macgarrett Kings who was suspended in spring and missed valuable time. His other target, junior Aaron Burbridge, is a tantalizing talent but had a down sophomore season.  Senior Tony Lippett emerged from the bottom of the depth chart to lead the team in receptions. At tight end, Josiah Price returns after starting during his freshman season, and his huge spring game raised expectations for this season. At placekicker they have Michael Geiger start after a solid freshman season.

At running back, Jeremy Langford returns for his senior season and has high expectations after a 1,422 yard season. He is hoping for another season where he finishes as a top five back in the Big Ten. Leading the offensive line will be senior center Jack Allen, who is among the best returning offensive linemen in the Big Ten. Another returning start along the line is sophomore left tackle Jack Conklin, who will have a lot of responsibility, protecting Connor Cook's blindside. With the loss of Blake Treadwell at left guard, former center Travis Jackson will shift over to be able to play significantly in his senior season. Connor Kruse will play at right guard and is a very versatile lineman. Kodi Kieler was one of the most talked about players in the spring and should be in line for a great season.

DEFENSE: The Spartan's defense last year was one of the best in not only the Big Ten but the country. Along the defensive line, the Spartans return both stud defensive ends from last year in junior Shilique Calhoun and senior Marcus Rush. Calhoun was the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the year and is one of the most fearsome players in the country. Rush is very underrated and has been a major part of the Spartan defense in his career. In the middle is a pair of juniors in Lawrence Thomas and Damon Knox. When Thomas is healthy he is one of the most talented players on the field. Knox will play at the nose tackle position and provides a big body to push forward into the backfield. Senior Mike Sadler led the nation in punts inside the ten yard line and will be one of, in not the best punter in the Big Ten.

Taiwan Jones takes the leadership from the graduated Max Bullough and Denicos Allen. He was a tantalizing talent at outside linebacker and gets his chance inside. Trying to replace Allen's production is junior Ed Davis as the blitzing linebacker for the intimidating Spartan defense. Replacing Jones on the other side is junior Darien Harris and should produce nicely. The Spartans secondary loses two very productive players in first round draft pick Darqueze Dennard and Isaiah Lewis. Replacing Dennard is Darian Hicks who hopes to help in protecting the red zone. Trae Waynes is considered the next great corner in East Lansing. Jalyn Powell will try to bring his physical game to the Spartans center field. Senior Kurtis Drummond was first team All Big Ten last year and hopes to repeat this season.

RECRUITING: Dantonio's class is headlined by five star defensive end Malik McDowell and four star defensive back Montae Nicholson. McDowell should start in his second year in East Lansing and Nocholson will get his turn in the talented secondary of the Spartans. Dantonio and his staff also got a huge get with four star DT Craig Evans from Wisconsin and he will line of next to McDowell in the future.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: The Rose Bowl champs don't have many needs in 2015 as much of this roster will return the following season. Michigan State could take three running backs in this class; they do need a long snapper, and they'll continue to try to stack offensive linemen after taking only one two years ago-and a handful in 2014.

OVERVIEW: Michigan State should not only contend for a Big Ten title but will contend for the College Football Playoff and a national championship. They are so talented on defense and have pieces on offense to be explosive.

QB Connor Cook

RB Jeremy Langford

DE Shilique Calhoun

CB Trae Waynes

LB Taiwan Jones

Big Ten Football Preview: Penn State

OFFENSE: James Franklin comes into Penn State with a very solid offense. Sophomore returning starter Christian Hackenberg was Big Ten's top freshman and is hoping to prove to be a top ten quarterback in the country. Looking to fill Allen Robinson's role on the offense is Geno Lewis, who has the athleticism and speed to be a great playmaker for the Nittany Lions. The other wideout will be sure-handed junior Matt Zanellato, although he only has six career catches and needs to gain experience fast. Jesse James returns and hopes to become Hackenberg's most reliable pass catcher now that Allen Robinson has left for the NFL.

Returning at running back is running mates and seniors Zach Zwinak and Bill Benton. Zwinak barely missed out on his second one thousand yard season and will continue his bruising back ways. I think these backs compliment each other perfectly and Benton is a great change of pace back for Zwinak. The left tackle, Franklin has his best lineman and anchor in junior Donovan Smith. Next to him will be Derek Dowrey, who moved over from defense due to injuries. In them middle will be junior Angelo Mangiro, who's best attribute is his versatility. Replacing John Urschel along the line Brian Gaia, who like fellow guard along the line, comes over from defense. At right tackle, Franklin will rely on redshirt freshman Andrew Nelson, who was praised by his former staff for his work ethic and effort. At place kicker, they return to senior and returning starter Sam Ficken.

DEFENSE: The Nittany Lions lose a key part of their line in DaQuan Jones, who's physicality will be missed on the inside. Replacing him in the middle is junior Anthony Zettel and sophomore Austin Johnson, who replaces Jones because of his productivity as a reserve. Zettel moves inside and hopes to prove that was the right decision. Returning at ends are Deion Barnes and C.J. Olaniyan. Olaniyan is a senior and hopes to build off a breakout year in which he led the team in sacks. Barnes had a down season after a great freshman season.

Franklin loses a leader at linebacker in Glenn Carson, and replacing him as the leader of the defense os senior Mike Hull, a tough guy who finally gets his chance in the middle. Next to him will be sophomores Brandon Bell, who gets the starting job after a strong finish last year, and Nyeem Wartman, who made big stops last year. Leading the secondary is junior Jordan Lucas, who was a surprise star last year. Trevor Williams will be the other corner and is a ball hawk very capable of turning the ball over. Returning for his senior season his Adrian Amos who has a lot of experience on this defense and will be a leader. Next to him will be fellow senior Ryan Keiser, who will be in his first full season as the starter. Freshman punter Chris Gulla is the top candidate to start.

RECRUITING: James Franklin is about as good as it gets for rerouting head coaches and he even helped the Nittany Lion's 2014 class with some headlining names including four stars: WR Saeed Blacknall, QB Michael O'Connor, and TE Mike Gesicki. Blacknall was the third best recruit out of New Jersey and a big get for Penn State. O'Connor is a great signal caller and will be the next quality quarterback for Penn State after Hackenberg. Gesicki will have to wait his turn behind two talented tight ends but will have his time to shine for Coach Franklin.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: As Penn State builds its roster back to 85 after suffering from NCAA sanctions, the Nittany Lions need a little bit of everything, but offensive line will be the main focus with James Franklin and his staff aiming for five. Defensive end and defensive back are two spots at which Penn State is thin.

OVERVIEW: I think that Penn State has the talent in the offense with the quarterbacks and the backs to compete but they will come up short of winning the Big Ten East without a solid defense. They will reach a solid bowl game and James Franklin will keep big time recruits coming to the Happy Valley.

QB Christian Hackenberg

WR Geno Lewis

CB Jordan Lucas

LB Mike Hull

RB Zach Zwinak

Predicting Packers 53 Man Roster

The Packers have a stacked roster and have a lot of extra players who will get picked up by other teams but they have to limit the roster to 53 players. This i what I think the roster should look like. Let's see how I do:

QB: Aaron Rodgers and Scott Tolzien (2)
I don't think the Packers have enough roster space to keep both Tolzien and Flynn and give the nod to Tolzien because of his athleticism and his vast improvement over the year.

RB: Eddie Lacy, James Starks, DuJuan Harris, and Josh Kuhn (4)
This is a pretty set position for the packers and can't see Raijon Neal get on because of his injury issues.

WR: Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Jarrett Boykin, DaVante Adams, and Jeff Janis (5)
The only reason to keep a guy like Kevin Dorsey on the roster is for special team purposes only. This is one of the Packers deepest positions and have a lot of upside in their fifth receiver, Janis.

TE: Richard Rodgers, Andrew Quarless, Brandon Bostick, and Ryan Taylor (4)
I give the nod to Taylor over Stoneburner because Taylor os a better blocker and a major contributor on special teams.

O-LINE: David Bakhtiari, Josh Sitton, Corey Linsley, T.J. Lang, Bryan Bulaga, Derrek Sherrod, Lane Taylor, added player off another team (8)
The Packers offensive line depth has gotten thin thanks to the injuries of J.C. Tretter and Aaron Adams.  I expect the Packers to pick up a player off another team while they wait for Tretter to come back.

D-LINE: Datone Jones, Letroy Guion, Mike Daniels, Josh Boyd, and Mike Pennel (5)
You may see the Packers add another player like Carlos Gray or Luther Robinson but this is very thin defensive line depth with the loss of B.J. Raji for the year and Thornton for some time.

Outside Linebackers: Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, Nick Perry, Mike Neal, Jayrone Elliot, Andy Mulumba (6)
I really like the depth the Packers have at outside linebacker and you may see Mulumba replaced with a guy like Nate Palmer or even Adrian Hubbard but I gave it to Mulumba based on his special teams play.

Inside Linbackers: A.J. Hawk, Brad Jones, Jamari Lattimore, Sam Barrington, Carl Bradford (5)
The only questionable call was Bradford who has struggled but Packers spent a big pick on him so there is no reason to cut him.

CB: Tramon Williams, Sam Shields, Casey Hayward, Davon House, Jarrett Bush, Jamal Rolle (6)
I give the nod to Jamal Rolle over Demetri Goodson based on Rolle's play recently.

S: Morgan Burnett, Micah Hyde, Haha Clinton-Dix, Sean Richardson, Chris Banjo (5)
The Packers have the space for both Richardson and Banjo as Richardson will provide depth and Banjo will mainly contribute on special teams.

Specialists: Mason Crosby, Tim Masthay, Brett Goode (3)

QB Scott Tolzien

TE Ryan Taylor

OLB Jayrone Elliot

 S Chris Banjo

Big Ten Football Preview: Rutgers

OFFENSE: Rutger's offense is led by senior Gary Nova and junior power back Paul James. Nova has a lot of experience is coach Kyle Flood's offensive system but has a tendency to miss is targets and throw interceptions. The Scarlet Knights lost both their starting wide receivers headlined by Brandon Coleman. His targets this year will be led by junior Leonte Caroo who has reportedly had a great summer and looks like a complete receiver. Replacing Coleman's production will be sophomore athlete Ruhann Peele who played both corner and wideout but is now strictly a receiver this year. Nova's most reliable target and star of the offense will be junior tight end Tyler Kroft. He led the team in receptions and yards last year and is a huge piece of the passing game in Piscataway.

In nine games, Paul James ran for 881 yards and averaged 5.6 yards per carry. He will like to reach a thousand yards this year and get double digit touchdowns for the Scarlet Knights as he leads the offense. He will run behind senior fullback Michael Burton who not only led the way for James but caught two touchdown cathces last year. The Rutgers return all five starters along the offensive line. At left tackle, we find mammoth 6-8 Keith Lumpkin who, with a big season could head to the NFL a year early. Next to him was senior Kaleb Johnson who was predicted seventh rounder for this year's draft but decided to come back for his senior season. In the middle will be senior Betim Bujari who has a lot of experience and will bring leadership to the line. At right guard, Chris Muller will hope to build off a solid redshirt freshman season. And at right tackle will be senior Taj Alexander who will hope to improve in pass protection. At placekicker, Flood will return to junior Kyle Federico for another season.

DEFENSE: Joe Rossi will now be in his first season as the defensive coordinator and is known to have good game plans for certain opponents. Rutgers loses both of last years starting defensive ends in Marcus Thompson and Jamil Merrell, and this year they will go with senior David Milewski and junior Dwjany Mera, a returning starter from the line. Mera was the most consistent performer on the line last season and Milewski hopes to turn in his first healthy season as a starter. In the middle of Flood's 3-4 scheme is senior nose guard Kenneth Kirksey and junior Darius Hamilton. Kirksey missed ten games last year with an injury while Hamilton had a productive sophomore season, finishing with 48 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

Their are two returning starters in the linebacking corps with Steve Longa and Kevin Snyder. Replacing Jamal Merrell is Quentin Gause, who missed the spring with a shoulder injury but is ready to compete. Longa moves to outside this year to utilize his great speed and vision. Snyder is very experienced and makes great reads before the snap. At cornerback, Rutgers will go with Ian Thomas, who returns to the team after quitting last year and senior Gareef Glashen, who was a part-time starter and shows impressive tackling skills. Sophomore Delon Stephenson was trained as a corner but will be needed as a free safety with the loss of Jeremy Deering. Next to him will be returning starter and senior Lorenzo Waters who brings a lot of needed leadership to the young secondary. With the loss of last year's starting punter Nick Marsh, Joe Roth will step up after a consistent spring.

RECRUITING: Rutger's had an underwhelming 2014 recruitment failing to bring in big in-state prospects. Josh Hicks is the headliner as he comes in as the number eleven all purpose back and brings a lot of speed and power to the Rutgers backfield, which will be needed once Paul James graduates. Fellow Florida prospect and three star lineman Marcus Applefield will be very important for Rutgers future at offensive line. Finally, they scored the twentieth ranked player from New Jersey and three star linebacker Sidney Gopre who is a very talented and athletic linebacker who should contribute early on in his Rutgers career.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: The Scarlet Knights struggled in the secondary last season, and while they played a lot of young kids, defensive backs remain a need in 2015. Rutgers will also look to sign three to four offensive linemen after taking just one two years ago. The Scarlet Knights will also aim to score three receivers and two tight ends.

OVERVIEW: I think that Rutgers will struggle in 2014, especially with a step up in competition. With an inexperienced secondary and limited talent along the defensive line. It will be hard to stop the star running backs and athletic playmakers in the Big Ten. I expect them to have a losing season and miss out on a bowl game.

LB Kevin Snyder

QB Gary Nova

RB Paul James

TE Tyler Kroft

SS Lorenzo Waters

Big Ten Football Preview: Maryland

OFFENSE: Simply, Maryland has an explosive offense. Led by senior quarterback C.J. Brown, who can hurt you running with the football and throwing it. He is a six year senior and brings a load of experience and leadership. He has two great receiving threats on the outside with junior Stefon Diggs and senior Deon Long. Stefon Diggs is not only the most dangerous member of the offense but may be the most dangerous playmaker in the Big Ten. Long averaged 15.3 yards per catch last year and will help keep double teams away from Diggs. Sophomore P.J. Gallo hopes to use his big body to be a lead blocker and make catches all over the field.

Returning starter junior tailback Brandon Ross is an extremely powerful runner and a perfect match in this pro offense for the Terrapins. Leading the way for him will be sophomore fullback Kenneth Goins Jr. who is extremely athletic and versatile. The offensive line will be lead by senior center Sal Conaboy who has 22 career starts and is very comfortable with Brown. Junior left tackle Ryan Doyle is very athletic and played on the right and left side last year. Right tackle will be occupied by sophomore Michael Dunn who shifted over from guard. At left guard, coach Randy Edsall will plug Silvano Altamirano and right guard will be 300 pound Andrew Zeller, who is known for his powerful interior run blocking. Kicking for the terrapins will be reliable and consistent junior Brad Craddock.

DEFENSE: In Randy Edsall's 3-4 defensive scheme, he will have returning starter Quinton Jefferson and star senior Andre Monroe at defensive ends. Monroe will make big strides in the Big Ten this year. In the middle he will have gigantic run plugger and returning starter Darius Kilgo, which will help in the run heavy Big Ten. Three out of the four linebackers return this year, with the loss of Marcus Whitfield. The returning linebackers are seniors Cole Farrand, Matt Robinson, and L.A. Goree. Farrand was an honorable mention last year in the ACC and will make a big impact in the run heavy Big Ten. Robinson was a former safety and excelled at quickly disrupting plays in the backfield. Goree was a tackle machine last year but may take on more of a pass rushing role this year. The new starter this year will be fellow senior Yannik Cudjoe-Virgil. He missed seven games last year due to injury and is ready to make an impact in his last year in College Park, Maryland.

The secondary lost a big name last year in second round pick Dexter McDougle. He will be replaced with senior Jeremiah Johnson who doesn't have a lot of experience but has good playmaking ability. Rwturning starter and sophomore Will Likely was a speedster and showed a lot of promise as a freshman. At safety, coordinator Brian Stewart will start a pair of juniors who both started last year in Sean Davis and Anthony Nixon. Davis is strong in run support and led the team in tackles last year. Nixon struggled as the teams center fielder and will be depended on to improve and create turnovers this year. Returning at punter will be junior Nathan Renfro who will have to work to keep is job after an underwhelming sophomore season.

RECRUITING: Maryland's class is headlined by 5-star offensive tackle Damien Prince, who was the number one recruit out of the state if Maryland. He is exactly what you look for in an offensive lineman and has improved in both run blocking and pass protection. He is a future All Big Ten performer. Maryland also hauled in four star offensive lineman Derwin Gray and what stands out about Gray is his strength is better than most offensive lineman. Fellow four star linebacker Jesse Aniebonam and wide receiver Juwann Winfree will be solid contributors for Maryland in the future.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: Offensive line was the strength of the 2014 class for Randy Edsall and his staff and it will need to be again in 2015, as the Terrapins likely won't get much from their upperclassmen. Quarterback is also a big need this cycle despite signing four star dual/athlete Will Ulmer in 2014. The whole defensive front is an area of need for Maryland, and they'll also look to continue building depth in the secondary.

OVERVIEW: Maryland's offense will once again be dominant although their is a lot of question marks along the offensive line. Maryland's defense has a lot of seniors and will be properly led, but questions in the secondary and a step up in competition this year might keep this team from competing in the Big Ten. I think Maryland will reach a bowl game, but they will struggle to get there.

QB C.J. Brown

DE Andre Monroe

LB Cole Farrand

CB Will Likely

WR Stefon Diggs

Breakout Offensive Players at Each Position in the Big Ten

This is a list of players that may have already shown themselves to the Big Ten, but is in line for a monster season.

QB: C.J. Brown, Maryland: Although he is a sixth year senior, C.J. Brown has the unique chance to show a new set of people his talent as he moves from the ACC to the Big Ten. He is a very dangerous runner and is very elusive on the outside. His accuracy has improved and look for him to take a step up this year and show he can stay in the pocket and show his arm strength.
(Also considered: Wes Lunt, Illinois)

RB: Tevin Coleman, Indiana: I expect Tevin Coleman to not only be the threat in the high powered and unstoppable Indiana offense, but be a top five running back in the run-friendly Big Ten. He perfectly combines power with speed and will be the most dependable player for Coach Wilson at Indiana.
(Also considered: Mark Weisman, Iowa)

WR: For wide receiver, I am going to go with two guys, who play a totally different game and that is Shane Wynn at Indiana and Christian Jones at Northwestern. Indiana lost Cody Latimer to the early rounds of the draft and replace him with the shifty and very small Shane Wynn who will provide an insane amount of playmaking ability for Coach Wilson at Indiana. Jones is the opposite of Wynn, because he is a big target and will excel at jump balls and deep throws downfield, using his long strides to outrun shorter cornerbacks.
(Also considered: Deon Long, Maryland and Tony Lippett, Michigan State)

TE: Maxx Williams, Minnesota: In my opinion, Maxx William has the talent to be one of the best tight ends in the nation. Unfortunately, Williams doesn't have the quarterback to even be the best in the Big Ten right now. That title belongs to Devin Funchess at Michigan, but Maxx has an advantage on Devin  as Williams is a sophomore and Funchess is a junior. This could be the year Williams breaks out, but if it isn't he will be a huge talent in his final three years in Minneapolis.
(Also considered: Jeff Heuerman, Ohio State)

OT: Donovan Smith, Penn State and Tyler Marz, Wisconsin: What these two players share is power, technique and driving ability. They are both anchors for their respective schools and a huge part of their power run game and both excel at protecting the quarterback. I expect both of these players to display their talent this year and be a huge part of their team's success on the offense.
(Also considered: Taylor Decker, Ohio State and Keith Lumpkin, Rutgers)

G: Kaleb Johnson, Rutgers and Jake Cotton, Nebraska: I think both of theses players are driving forces along their respective offensive lines and Johnson even was predicted to be a let round pick in last years draft but decided to come back to improve upon that stock. Cotton is a very experienced player and has played in a high powered running offense his whole college career.
(Also considered: Dallas Lewallen, Wisconsin and Zac Epping, Minnesota)

C: Austin Blythe, Iowa: He moved from guard to center this year and hasn't missed a step along the way. A big guy, he is perfect for the type of offense Iowa runs and will be essential to Iowa's success this season.

Big Ten Football Preview: Minnesota

OFFENSE: Minnesota loses last years starting quarterback Phillip Nelson to transfer and will rely on sophomore thrower Mitch Leidner to make all the tough throws for Coach Jerry Kill's revamped offense. He returns his star playmaker from last year in senior back David Cobb. A bruising back who likes bump off the tackle will have one more run with the Gophers and wants it to be a good one. Fellow back Rodrick Williams Jr. is an explosive back who excels at finding space between the tackles and will get an advantage in the offense because unlike Cobb and Kirkwood, Williams Jr. is a junior. I think that Minnesota's stable of backs is top five in the Big Ten and could come out of the gate at full speed and may surprise a couple people.

Leidner's biggest weapon will be sophomore tight end Maxx Williams who led the team in receiving yards last year as a freshman and is an explosive threat whether he is blocking for shifty runners Cobb and Kirkwood, or towering over a defensive back making a tough catch. At the wide receiver position, and a clear leader of the offense, is part time but reliable senior pass catcher Isaac Fruechte. He had no touchdown receptions last year but hopes to change that as he steps into a spot where Minnesota was weak in last year and that was playmaking. Sophomore Drew Wolitarsky will line up opposite of Fruechte and after a solid freshman year hopes to show that his great athletic ability can translate to touchdowns and big plays for Jerry Kill's offense. At kicker, freshman Ryan Santoso steps in for the graduated Chris Hawthorne and provides a strong leg for the Golden Gophers.

The Gophers offensive line should look something like this: LT Ben Lauer, LG Zac Epping, C Tommy Olsen, RG Foster Bush, and RT Josh Campion. Sophomore Ben Lauer was a freshman All-American last year and is one of the hidden gems in the Big Ten. Next to him will be experienced senior Epping who has started 34 games and the bulky guard looks to work on his quickness and stamina this year for his final run with Minnesota. Former four star recruit at guard, Olson shifted to center last year and will be counted on to be a leader in the trenches. Known to be an amazing run blocker, I look forward to watching him create space for Cobb and Williams this year. Due to a career-ending concussion Jerry Kill will depend upon junior guard Foster Bush to step up into the place of Caleb Bak. He is a powerful lineman and has great initial momentum to push the D-lineman back before he can make a move. 6-5 326 pound Junior Josh Camion is the largest on the line and probably the most athletic. He is a great mover and is improving his pass protection.

DEFENSE: With the loss of one of the most physically imposing players I have see in Ra'shede Hageman gone from Minneapolis, I still think Minnesota returns a lot of talent along the defensive line. Junior defensive end Thieren Cockran had a team high 7.5 sacks last year and he is among my Big Ten breakout players this year at defensive end. The other defensive end in Minneapolis will be Michael Amaefula who gets the nod because of his experience as he has been a starter for the golden gophers since his freshman season, and should be determined to have a great season, as it will be his last at Minnesota. In the middle of Kill's 4-3 will be senior Cameron Botticelli and junior Scott Ekpe. Botticelli learned a lot from Hageman and takes a lot of room which will help with all the power backs in the Big Ten. Ekpe has added strength throughout his first couple of years in Minnesota and will work on his technique in the inside while adding pass rush beside pass rushing genius Cockran.

Minnesota's linebackers will be led by senior and former junior college transfer Damien Wilson who is great in pass coverage and getting to the runner. Junior De'Vondre Campbell is undersized for linebacker but has the athleticism to compete for Coach Kill. Sophomore Jack Lynn played three games as a redshirt freshman last year but has learned a lot of Minnesota's system and is ready to step up as a starter this year on this talented Minnesota defense. At punter, returning starter junior Peter Mortell emerged as one of the Big Ten's best punters with a 43.3 years average.

The golden gopher secondary loses a big leader and playmaker in Brock Vereen. Replacing him at safety will be junior Antonio Johnson and has the size and speed to make a positive impact for Minnesota this year. Returning starter Cedric Thompson will line up next to Johnson and led the team with 79 tackles last year. He will be depended on for leadership as he is a senior. At cornerback Kill will plug senior Derrick Wells and junior Eric Murray. Murray had ten pass breakups last year and was considered the gophers best cornerback last year in pass coverage. Wells is a decent corner but has struggled in the past in coverage.

RECRUITING: Considering Minnesota finished eleventh in the Big Ten and 56th in the nation. The star of the class and future Golden Gopher star is there only four star recruit running back Jeff Jones. They got a huge receiver from Virginia in Melvin Holland Jr. I expect him to make a large impact in Minnesota's passing a track and deep ball threat in the coming years. And finally three star defensive tackle a Steven Richardson is undersized but very physical and will gain speed and physicality to his resume'.
2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: Minnesota only signed two defensive backs in 2014 and will look to bring in a slew of them in 2015. Also look for Jerry Kill and his staff to try and reel in four to five offensive linemen.
OVERVIEW: I think that Minnesota's offense will be powered by the physical running game led by the terrific trio of Cobb, Williams, and Kirkwood and that will definitely help Leidner in his first year as the full time starter. Maxx Williams performs in All-Big Ten form but the inexperienced defense that lacks the physical play and leadership of Vereen and Hageman. Minnesota finishes fourth in the Big Ten West and gets an upset win sometime during the season.

LB Damien Wilson

RB David Cobb

CB Eric Murray

DE Thieren Cockran

LT Ben Lauer

Big Ten Football Preview: Northwestern

OFFENSE: Northwestern's offense was primed to be one of the more dominant one's in the Big Ten last year as they had the dynamic duo of Trevor Siemian and Kain Colter, the speedy and versatile Venric Mark behind them and all of their receivers back from the ten win season in 2012. That wasn't the case as they went from a ten win season and bowl victory plus a 4-0 start to the year to finishing last year 5-7 due to underperforming and injuries. They lose star quarterback Kain Colter and wideout Rashad Lawrence to graduation and playmaker back Venric Mark to transfer due to personal reasons. They do retain Trevor Siemian and the job is now all his after sharing it with Colter for two years and has the arm strength and accuracy to be Fitzgerald's trusted man at QB.

Due to Mark's transfer, the next running back for the Wildcats will be senior Treyvon Green, who has great vision and a banger between the tackles who can gain extra yards after contact. In the slot they will have junior Dan Vitale who caught 62 balls and fives touchdowns in his first two years in Evanston. Siemian will have three senior wideouts to throw to in Kyle Prater, Christian Jones, and Tony Jones. Prater is a transfer from USC who had a decent spring winning him the final wideout spot. The two Jones are returning starters, and Tony excels at stretching the field while Christian has been Siemian's go to guy for the past two seasons recording 89 catches and over a thousand yards.

The offensive line all returns from last season although last year's starting RT Paul Jorgensen moves to the left side to protect Siemian's back. He is extremely mobile and will be depended on to protect while also creating holes for Green. At left guard, Fitzgerald will depend on Geoff Mogus, who started eleven games last year and has good upper body strength but needs to be more mobile and balanced. Senior center Brandon Vitable is a two-time co-captain and has a lot of experience and will be essential as the leader of the line. Junior Matt Frazier surged to earn job for final four games last year and is extremely good at moving his rusher and creating running lanes. At right tackle, their is a battle between sophomore Eric Olson and last years starting LT Jack Konopka. Olson definitely has a step up in the race and should be the starter on August 30 against California. The Wildcats lost All Big Ten kicker Jeff Budzien last year and will depend on junior Arthur Omilian for kicks.

DEFENSE: The defense last year was definitely a weakness and led to drop in wins. Along the defensive line, they lost DE Tyler Scott, and replace him with junior Deonte Gibson, who was big in the trenches and has a knack to get into the backfield. Fellow junior Dean Lowry intercepted two passes and forced a fumble during Northwestern's 4-0 start last season. In the middle of Fitzgerald's 4-3 scheme is two experienced and powerful seniors in Chance Carter and Sean McEvilly. McEvilly was injured for ten of the twelve games last season and is hoping to bounce back in his last season for the purple and white. Carter was last years starting defensive end but kicks inside because of his big body and ability to take down the runner inside.

Fitzgerald lost one of his main leaders in Damien Proby last year and will attempt to replace his production with highly productive senior Chi Chi Ariguzo, who had 197 tackles, six interceptions, and five fumble recoveries in the last two years. Beside him will be fellow senior Collin Ellis who had two pick-sixes last year and is know for the havoc he wrecks in pass coverage. To complete the solid group of linebackers in Evanston is junior Drew Smith who is competing with Jimmy Hall for the position but I give the nod to Smith because of he has more experience at the position, as Hall is converting from safety.

In the secondary, Northwestern has a very productive safety in Ibraheim Campbell, who is a four year starter and is an absolute ballhawk for Fitzgerald. Beside him will be big-hitting junior safety Traveon Henry who knows how to fill in against the run. Junior Nick VanHoose is a third year starter and is a very consistent playmaker for Fitzgerald and is a trusted corner. Matthew Harris is a young corner opposite of Van Hoose and is a solid contributor in special teams as well. Junior Chris Gradone will handle punting duties but is in a fight to keep his job with incoming freshman Hunter Niswander.

RECRUITING: Northwestern finished with the eighth best class in the Big Ten and the 47th best class in the country finishing with four four stars and ten three stars. Headlining the class is four stars Garrett Dickerson, Justin Jackson and Parrker Westphal. Dickerson is both a tight end and one of the top defensive end recruits in the country. It will be interesting how Fitzgerald will use his 6-4 240 pound body but my guess is he plugs him in on defense where he would make a bigger impact.

Justin Jackson was the number three all purpose running back for recruiting and may be able to get sometime on the field this year with the sudden transfer of star Venric Mark. Parrker Westphal and four star signal caller Clayton Thorson figure to be huge in the future for the Wildcats in the future as this is Siemian's senior year and Westphal's talent should move him up the depth chart in the future.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: The receiver position will be real important for Northwestern in the class of 2015 as they lose a lot of contributors following the season. Linebacker is also an area of need, and even though the Wildcats have recruited the quarterback position well in 2013 and 2014, they'll want to add another talented signal caller in 2015.

OVERVIEW: Northwestern will be properly led by Fitzgerald and quarterback Trevor Siemian and have stability along the lines to pose a threat in the weaker Big Ten West. On defense Chi Chi Ariguzo and Ibraheim Campbell will lead a unit that will probably make or break a team that could play there way into the Big Ten title game or have another underwhelming season.

LB Chi Chi Ariguzo

TE Dan Vitale

DE Dean Lowry

S Ibraheim Campbell

QB Trevor Siemian

Big Ten Football Preview: Ohio State

OFFENSE: Despite losing explosive weapons Philly Brown and Carlos Hyde, two-time defending Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year QB Braxton Miller is surrounded by elite talent. The senior play caller has the arm power and accuracy to throw the ball anywhere on the field and the legs to get them there if no one is open. He is a preseason Heisman candidate and one of, if not the best players in the Big Ten. Sophomore running back Ezekiel Elliot was the back hand-picked by Urban Meyer and has a motor. I don't expect him to replicate the type of numbers that Hyde had, but he doesn't have to with Miller as quarterback. What he brings that Hyde necessarily didn't is that he can catch balls out of the backfield making him very dangerous with the talented QB he has.

Braxton Miller has two experienced receivers to throw to as Devin Smith and Evan Spencer are both seniors. Devin Smith will be Millers number one target and a great deep ball threat with big play ability. Spencer missed spring practice from a leg injury suffered in the Orange Bowl but figures to be a large part in Ohio State's passing game. In the slot, the Buckeyes will plug in sophomore receiver Dontre Wilson, who is a speedster who gives Meyer a true hybrid weapon that reminds me a little of what Meyer had in Percy Harvin at Florida. Senior tight end Jeff Heuerman is a versatile receiver and blocker, although doesn't display big play ability.

Junior left tackle Taylor Decker is the only returning starter for the Buckeyes, as the offensive line looks to be very uncertain. If it is as uncertain at the start of the season as it was during the spring, the offensive line could derail the Buckeyes offense that has so much promise. Taylor Decker shows nice pass protection but needs to work on creating for run lanes, especially with a talented running quarterback behind him. Junior left guard Antonio Underwood played the most snaps during the spring game and flashes good strength and driving ability. At center, offensive coordinator Tom Herman will rely on Jacoby Boren, who excels in run blocking and shows good technique, although may be better suited for the guard position. Sophomore right guard is, besides for Decker, the only lineman with a starting spot claimed, He brings explosion and strength to the run game and excels at creating space for the runner. Former defensive lineman Darryl Baldwin is trying to earn playing time on the other side of the line, and he brings his long wingspan and strength, which will hopefully be enough to keep rushers away from the quarterback. True freshman kicker Sean Nuernberger was a three star out of high school and the number eight kicker out of high school. Known for his big leg, he will be called upon in clutch situations for Coach Meyer.

DEFENSE: Defensive line should be one of, if not the strongest position group the Buckeyes as they have insane talents at ends with Junior Noah Spence and sophomore Joey Bosa. Both of them apply a ton of pressure to the quarterback and constantly disrupts play in the backfield. Senior Michael Bennett is one of the most feared lineman in the country and should be a leader of this strong Buckeyes defense. Next to him will be Adolphus Washington who will find  a permanent home inside this year and brings a lot of size and is very fast for his bulky frame. Senior inside linebacker Curtis Grant who is still battling off incoming five star freshman Raekwon McMillan and is very good at getting to the ball carrier while also being very fluid in pass coverage. Joshua Perry had more tackles than any returning starter and will continue to disrupt play off the edge. Sophomore linebacker and former high school quarterback Darron Lee had a big spring to grab the starting job.

Senior cornerback Doran Grant is the only returning starter from a struggling unit last year and has great ball skills and flexibility. Armani Reeves served as Bradley Roby's main replacement last year and should bring his coverage skills to a new level with more playing time. Last years nickel back will move to safety as Tyvis Powell and Vonn Bell will try to use their talent to outweigh their massive inexperience at safety this year. Don't expect the secondary to get much better this year. Junior punter Cameron Johnston is a preseason second team All-American and will display his leg power this year in Colombus.

RECRUITING: Ohio State hauled in the best class in the Big Ten and the third best in the nation headlined by five star linebacker Raekwon McMillan. He is a a big, physical, and nasty linebacker who enrolled early and is competing to start right away. Curtis Samuel comes in as the third best athlete in the country and should contribute at running back and slot receiver in his first year at Colombus. Four star safety Erick Smith is a very fluid and instinctive who plays comfortably at cornerback and safety and will immediately help a struggling unit.

2015 NEEDS by 247sports Composite's Steve Wiltfong:
Urban Meyer and his staff would like to land one of the nation's top quarterbacks in this recruiting cycle. The Buckeyes have landed several playmakers at running back and receiver since Meyer arrived, but they'd like to take two tight ends in this class. Ohio State will also aim to score three offensive linemen, and safety is a major need on the defensive side of the ball.

OVERVIEW: The front seven should be the best in the Big Ten and Braxton Miller is one of the best playmakers in the country, and is also surrounded by offensive threats. The offensive line and secondary have to get better in order for the Buckeyes to make the College Football playoff and bring home the national championship to Colombus.  Meyer's team has the talent and versatility to be the best team in the country, but the lack of experience and holes at essential units of the team may hold them from reaching that plateau.

QB Braxton Miller

WR Devin Smith

DE Joey Bosa

DT Michael Bennett

DE Noah Spence