Thursday and Friday involved two days of meetings for the Big Ten in Chicago. The first day was for media members only, and included a press conference with a Q&A format for each coach.
The Big Ten Kickoff Luncheon annually draws some of the most interesting and talented names in college sports. The list of former Kickoff Luncheon attendees includes coaching legends like Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler, along with each of the Big Ten's Heisman Trophy winners in the last 37 years - Archie Griffin, Desmond Howard, Eddie George, Charles Woodson, Ron Dayne, and Troy Smith.
On Friday morning, individual players met with media members starting at 8 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. they were at a different table for each of the 11 teams, signing autographs. From approximately 11:30 until 1:30, a luncheon for over 1,700 people was held in the Hyatt Regency Chicago's Grand Ballroom.
Each coach spoke briefly during the luncheon, which was hosted by Brent Musberger from ABC/ESPN Sports. Brent started off by saying that "When he was in the 'Green Room' for media interviews, many of the players had looks of disappointment - they thought Erin Andrews would host this luncheon".
A highlight film was shown, and the narrator stated that every team in the conference returns at least half of its starters for the first time in 5 years.
:nw2:NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS
Friday's luncheon was open for those who had purchased tickets. Brent Musberger made some opening remarks, and then introduced Pat Fitzgerald, who is now in his third season. Fitzgerald, age 33, was a two-time Bednarik Award winner (national defensive player of the year) for Northwestern in the mid-'90s, including their Rose Bowl team, and has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
The coach told Brent that it was great to see "another Wildcat at the Big Ten luncheon." He said that the conference lost a great coach and a great man in Lloyd Carr, and talked about Joe Tiller, who will be coaching his last season at Purdue. He said that since Tiller joined the league, the players no longer wear big neck rolls anymore, as Fitzgerald himself and former Boiler Mike Alstott used to wear.
The Wildcats finished in a 4-way tie for seventh in the Big Ten standings last year, with a 3-5 mark in conference play. They return quarterback C.J. Bacher and RB Tyrell Sutton, who was injured for much of last season. The defense is now under the guidance of coordinator Mike Hankwitz (formerly at Wisconsin) and will feature more attacking schemes. They return 8 starters on defense, as well as getting back safety Brendan Smith, who missed most of last year with a bad shoulder.
Last year the Wildcats managed to rank second in the conference in total offense per game, but next-to-last in scoring. The 19 interceptions thrown by C.J. Bacher help explain that disparity, and having Tyrell Sutton only play half the season led to them being last in the league in rushing. They'll try to improve on that performance, despite an undersized and fairly inexperienced offensive line, by featuring a hurry-up offense under new OC Mick McCall. Leading receiver Eric Peterman is back, so that helps.
The conference schedule may help Northwestern this year, since they miss Penn State and Wisconsin, and their road games are at Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, and Michigan. Their season starts on August 30th by hosting Syracuse, and the next week has them going to Duke, where they'll be seeking some revenge for last year's embarrassing loss.
The players representing the Wildcats were three seniors: quarterback C.J. Bacher, wide receiver Eric Peterman, and running back Tyrell Sutton.
Brent then introduced Joe Tiller, saying that "We want to thank Joe for a special salad dressing today - snake oil and vinegar." - a reference to Tiller's comments about Rich Rodriguez at the end of the last recruiting season.
:purdue2: PURDUE BOILERMAKERS
Joe Tiller is starting his 12th and final season as the coach at Purdue. The Boilermakers have named Danny Hope to succeed Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the OC at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
Tiller has not only raised the level of play at Purdue, famously bringing "basketball on grass" to the Big Ten in the 1990s, he has made the Big Ten luncheons more lively with his sense of humor.
Coach Tiller said that after Purdue, he and his wife will return to Wyoming. He said that many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but "it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
He also welcomed Rich Rodriguez to the conference, but he first called him "Coach Alvarez", and then said "I was thinking of Barry - I need a haircut and he and I share the same barber".
He then told a story about last year's Ohio State game. He said that he's from Toledo, and at the game in West Lafayette last year, their stadium holds about 63,000 and Ohio State had about 43,000 fans, many outside the stadium without tickets. He said his brother heard a Boiler fan and a Buckeye fan talking about game tickets in the parking lot. The Boiler fan had a ticket, and the Buckeye fan said "How much?" The Purdue fan said "You can have it, my wife recently died and I don't have anybody to go to the game with." The Buckeye fan said "There are no sons or daughters, or other relatives?" and the Boiler fan said "They're all at the funeral."
Last season started fairly typically for recent Purdue teams: they scored a ton of points against weaker non-conference opponents, raised the expectations coming into the Big Ten season, and then struggled to score against tougher competition. Coming into the Big Ten opener last year with a scoring average of over 45 points, they didn't dent the scoreboard against tOSU until the final three minutes of the game.
This year the offense that led the league in total yards and scoring last year returns senior Curtis Painter, who already has 8,763 career passing yards. The loss of Dorien Bryant (292 career catches) and tight end Dustin Keller might slow the attack some, but if Painter stays healthy he should easily surpass Drew Brees's career Big Ten passing record of 11,792 yards.
Kory Sheets and Jaycen Taylor each averaged over 5 yards per carry last year, and they combined for 15 rushing TDs. Greg Orton's 67 catches tie him with Minnesota's Eric Decker for the most by any returning Big Ten wide receiver.
On defense, outside LB Anthony Heygood received honorable mention on the All Big Ten teams last year, and is among 6 returning starters for coordinator Brock Spack, who has been the DC for the entire 12 years under Tiller. This year, he will also once again coach the llnebackers, after spending the last couple of seasons with the safeties.
Although this year's conference schedule once again excludes Illinois and Wisconsin, this team is not expected to challenge for the league crown. If the Boilers can at least gain a split in their two significant non-conference games, hosting Oregon and facing Notre Dame in South Bend, it will help the outside perception of the conference.
Purdue's player representatives were three seniors: wide receiver Greg Orton, linebacker Anthony Heygood, and three-time attendee QB Curtis Painter.
:psu2: PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS
Brent Musberger then introduced Penn State's Joe Paterno, and said that Paterno holds NCAA records for coaching in 34 bowl games and for winning 23 of them.
JoePa said he had some reaction to what Joe Tiller had said, looking at Tiller while saying "the snow in Wyoming - it would take a lot of snow to fill up your rear end." Joe then said that several years ago, when Rich Rodriguez was a player at West Virginia, his wife Rita was a cheerleader there. Paterno said that many years later, he met them both again at a Nike camp and Rita asked JoePa if he remembered her when she was a cheerleader at WVU? Paterno responded "Of course I do. I've gotten old, but I'm not that old!"
He then said that he received a package from the new Michigan coach marked "Please handle with care, for Coach Paterno." JoePa said he was excited about opening a special gift, and "opened it to find a picture of the JoePa statue in front of Beaver Stadium, but with a Michigan jersey on it."
He then said it used to be great to follow Lloyd Carr to the podium, since he was such a lousy talker." He then congratulated the Northwestern coach, saying "It's great that Pat Fitzgerald, a young guy, got into the College Hall of Fame. It only took me 58 years."
JoePa, at age 81, is entering his 43rd season as the head man for the Nittany Lions, and last year he broke Amos Alonzo Stagg's record of 41 years as the head coach of a major college team. The comments of Paterno being too old for the job subsided in 2005, when his team claimed a Big Ten co-championship and he was voted national coach of the year for a record 5th time by the AFCA. But after a pair of 9-4 seasons, the Pennsylvania natives are again restless, partly due to losing some high-profile recruiting battles to Ohio State.
After not winning a bowl game over a 5-year period (2000-04), JoePa has ended each of the last three seasons with a bowl victory. The Alamo Bowl win over Texas A&M last December was his 372nd victory at Penn State, leaving him 1 behind Bowden's all-time record for major college coaches.
It's worth noting that while the conference schedule missed Minnesota and Northwestern last year, the non-conference slate consisted of: Buffalo, Temple, Florida International, and a home game against Notre Dame.
There's plenty of experience returning on offense, including the entire O-Line, receivers Derrick Williams and Deon Butler, and tight end Andrew Quarless (if he stays out of more trouble). But the Nittany Lions need to replace quarterback Anthony Morelli, which may hurt the chances of the Thorpe Award for Malcolm Jenkins. Junior Daryll Clark is expected to start the season, rather than Pat Devlin, since Clark's mobility is an asset for the spread offense they're looking to run. Evan Royster, who averaged 6.3 yards per carry last year, figures to get most of the RB carries for a team whose 4.8 ypc was second in the Big Ten last year, behind only Illinois.
On the defensive side, Penn State finished 7th in the country in both rushing defense and scoring defense last year, and they were second in the nation in sacks. But the LB corps not only lost Dan Connor to the NFL, Sean Lee will miss the 2008 season after suffering a torn ACL in spring ball. There is now an uncertainty among Nittany fans regarding the designated PSU defender for the Bednarik award.
The kicking game is solid, although Kevin Kelly struggles beyond 40 yards. The team was third in the country in net punting.
The schedule again bypasses Minnesota and Northwestern, which should work against them. They have designated the Michigan game as Homecoming, possibly thinking that will be the trick to ending a 9-game skid against the Wolverines. The non-conference schedule includes a visit from Oregon State.
Penn State was represented by three seniors at the meetings: defensive end Josh Gaines, center A.Q. Shipley, and wide receiver/kick returner Derrick Williams.
:minn2: MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS
Next up was Tim Brewster, who returns after going 1-11 in his first year after replacing Glen Mason at Minnesota. After getting a win against Miami of Ohio in week 2, the team finished with 10 straight losses, going 0-8 in the Big Ten and dropping decisions to FCS (1-AA) North Dakota State and Florida Atlantic.
Brewster said that he had a recurring conversation with Minnesota fans over the summer. He would say "I think we're going to be a much improved football team", and the response was "Damn, I hope so."
This year, Minnesota opens against Northern Illinois before traveling to Bowling Green, and completes their non-conference slate by hosting Montana State and Florida Atlantic before kicking off their Big Ten schedule in the 'Shoe on September 27th. Missing Penn State and Michigan State in the conference rotation isn't a bad break.
The offense will be led by sophomore QB Adam Weber, who actually had a higher QB rating than Juice Williams last year, in addition to rushing for 617 yards. Wide receiver Eric Decker had 75.8 receiving yards per game last year, best among all returning receivers in the Big Ten, and scored 9 TDs. The O-line played well, since Minnesota had the fewest sacks allowed in the league, but the team needs to find production at RB and get a replacement for WR Ernie Wheelwright.
The defense was simply awful last year, allowing a nation's-worst 518.7 yards per game. They will now be led by new DC Ted Roof, the former head man at Duke, who hopes to benefit from a good recruiting class which included a few junior college players. Although Minnesota is probably still a few years away from winning it's first conference title since 1967, they are looking forward to the completion of TCF Bank Stadium, a new on-campus facility scheduled to open in time for the 2009 football season.
Player representatives for the Gophers were sophomore QB Adam Weber, junior wide receiver Eric Decker, and senior linebacker Steve Davis.
:msu2: MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS
Mark Dantonio begins his second season at Michigan State after opening with a 7-6 record, which was an improvement after 3 straight losing seasons under John L. Smith. A telling statistic is that each of the 6 losses was by 7 points or fewer. The team last won a conference title in 1990.
Dantonio stated that "Last year was centered on earning respect." He said that "things go in cycles - we're about ready to turn the page."
The Spartans have some weapons on offense, returning senior QB Brian Hoyer and senior RB Javon Ringer (1,447 yards, 5.9 per carry) from the unit that was second in the conference in scoring average. But they will miss the 21 TDs of Jehuu Caulcrick and the league-best 1,260 receiving yards of Devin Thomas.
Despite being 4th in the league in total defense and 2nd in turnover margin, the defense was only 8th in points allowed. Their 7.7 tackles-for-loss were only slightly behind the 7.9 of league-leader Ohio State. Up front, Cincinnati transfer Trevor Anderson will try to apply pressure like the departed Jonal Saint-Dic. Freshman All-American Greg Jones will be a force at linebacker.
The team was first in the Big Ten in kick return average with Devin Thomas leading the way, but were last in punt return average.
The schedule starts with a tough trip to Cal, followed by home dates with Eastern Michigan, Florida Atlantic, and Notre Dame. The conference rotation bypasses Illinois and Minnesota, and they host Iowa, Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Purdue.
Michigan State's representatives were three seniors: QB Brian Hoyer, running back Javon Ringer, and defensive tackle Justin Kershaw.
:ind2: INDIANA HOOSIERS
After Bill Lynch became head coach at Indiana following the death of Terry Hoeppner last year, there was one all-important goal: to "play 13" games. The team achieved that by going to a bowl game for for the first time since 1993 (you'll remember that bowl season as the last time that a certain team from the northern past of Indiana won a bowl game).
Lynch said "I'm going to keep my remarks brief - if you're like me, a lot of us need to go to the rest room." He asked Marcus Thigpen to stand, and said "How about that suit?" (It was bright orange). Lynch than stated "Come to Bloomington for a game and you can get a suit like that."
QB Kellen Lewis was a second team All-Conference selection at QB last year, and he returns despite missing spring practice for violating team rules. He was the team's leading rusher with 736 yards, and was second in passing efficiency among Big Ten QBs. The team must somehow replace the production of James Hardy, whose 16 receiving TDs led the league. Junior Marcus Thigpen has been electric as a kick returner, but hasn't been able to gain yards consistently out of the backfield.
Junior defensive end Greg Middleton blossomed into a star last year, earning All-Big Ten honors with 16 sacks, the most in the country. In all, seven starters return from a unit that improved over 2006, but struggled against the better teams.
The placekicking duties are in excellent shape with Groza finalist Austin Starr, who made 21 of 23 FG attempts, and scored the most points last year among players returning to the Big Ten.
The Hoosiers have not won a conference title since 1967.
Indiana's player representatives were 3 seniors: defensive tackle Greg Brown, kicker Austin Starr, and orange-suited RB Marcus Thigpen.
:ill2: ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI
Brent then introduced Ron Zook, who asked Brent if he had any athletic grandkids in need of a scholarship offer (OK, not really). Zook coached the Illini to 9 wins in 2007, which is more than the team had in the combined seasons from 2003 through 2006. Two years ago, when someone apologized for under-renovation Memorial stadium for it being "a lot of dirt and a big mess", Zook replied "Well, so's our football team." After winning the 2007 Dave McClain Big Ten Coach of the Year Award for taking the Fighting Illini to the Rose Bowl last year, he no longer needs to make jokes at his team's expense.
He did say "I'm going into my fourth year, and next year I'll be the 4th longest coach after Joe Tiller retires." He said he is telling his players that "the most important thing for our team is to remember how we got there" (there being the Rose Bowl).
He then said "Welcome, Rich Rodriguez, ... where is he?" looking side to side.
Although finishing last in passing yardage, Illinois led the conference in rushing and had the only offense in the league which averaged over 6 yards per offensive snap in 2007. Despite losing the 1,681 rushing yards and 19 TDs by Silver Football (Big Ten MVP) winner Rashard Mendenhall, the Illinois offense should again be potent under junior QB Juice Williams. Receiver Arrelious Benn is a dangerous target on the outside.
On defense, senior LB Brit Miller will shift to the middle and try to replace the 132 tackles that J Leman made last year. Junior CB Vontae Davis will most likely be battling tOSU's Malcolm Jenkins for the unofficial title of "best shutdown" corner in the conference, but the team ranking of 10th in the league in passing yards allowed shows that he needs some help.
The Illini open the season against Missouri, the favorite in the Big 12 North this year. The conference schedule misses MSU and Purdue, but includes road trips to Penn State, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In November there is a dangerous "trap game" at Western Michigan, before hosting conference favorite Ohio State, which will be looking to avenge the game at the 'Shoe that knocked the Buckeyes from the #1 ranking.
The Fighting Illini's representatives were senior offensive lineman Ryan McDonald, senior linebacker Brit Miller, and junior QB Juice Williams.
Brent Musberger, referring to Coach Zook having trouble spotting Rich Rodriguez, said "Obviously you haven't driven through West Virginia this year, you'd have seen all those wanted posters." - then introduced Coach Rodriguez.
:scum2: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES
The only team with a first-year coach this year is the Wolverines, who brought in Rich Rodriguez to replace Lloyd Carr. Carr won a national championship at Michigan in 1997, but his 1-6 record against Jim Tressel, along with a loss to Appalachian State, seemed to cause everyone up north to want a new man at the helm. But it's obvious that nobody in charge up there foresaw the PR mess that evolved from Rodriguez trying to not pay the $4 million in liquidated damages contained in his contract with West Virginia.
Rodriguez said that "It's nice to talk football, after a lot of other things ... "What they say about change is true, change is hard - and costly." He then said the length of the speeches was no problem for Joe Paterno, if JoePa "had to go to the bathroom, he'll just get up and go - whether he's at a game, a banquet, whatever."
He said that in the fall, he'd have 110,000 fans - and that 109,000 of them would be offensive coordinators." He also mentioned that Rita still had to sell the house in West Virginia. "She drives through Ohio (lots of state troopers), then drives through Pittsburgh (not any better), and then West Virginia. There's more than (wanted) posters, they sell a lot of guns in that state. So Rita changes the license plates when going there."
The Michigan offense finished a disappointing 10th in the conference in total yards, only ahead of Iowa. From that unit, they lose the school's all-time leading rusher (picture an exercise bike), the school's all-time leading passer (picture not Lloyd Carr, but Lloyd Christmas), the conference leader in receiving yards per game (recall someone with a case of Braylon-itis in The Game last year), the #1 overall pick in the NFL draft (Jake Long), an all-conference guard (Adam Kraus), and another lineman who received honorable mention all-conference and decided to transfer to Ohio State. Also, the former "QB-of the-future" up north transferred to Arkansas, which has thankfully saved Big Ten fans from hearing hundreds of "Big Tex" references from today's emcee.
In an effort to install his spread-option offense, the new head coach has brought in numerous slot-back types and an S&C coach that works the players until they cry "wolf" -at which point the S&C coach says "I had one of those as a pet!"; but despite using his "pryor" team's phone in an attempt to induce the right guy to run his offense to head to Ann Arbor, this year's QB appears destined to be Steven Threet, a transfer from Georgia Tech who's more of a traditional dropback guy with some mobility. The track record indicates that Rodriquez will have a successful offense at Michigan, but it's bound to take a couple of years to get the right personnel in place and work out the kinks.
The Wolverines were third in the Big Ten in total defense, and second in pass defense. They return a talented defensive line, although depth up front is a concern. At linebacker, Obi Ezeh returns, but gone is Shawn Crable, with his impressive tackles-for-loss total and his unimpressive blocking on the FG unit. The secondary loses both starting safeties, and is also hoping to lose the game films from Appalachian State and Oregon.
The schedule includes non-conference games hosting Utah, Miami (Ohio), and Toledo, along with a trip to South Bend in September. The Big Ten portion leaves out Indiana and Iowa, which is a bad break. The conference opener is against Wisconsin, and there's a road trip to Penn State as well as the season-ending tilt in Columbus. The Wolverines will be trying to extend their streak of 33 straight seasons with a bowl game (the all-time mark is Nebraska's 35, but that streak ended in 2004).
Michigan's representatives were all seniors: defensive end Tim Jamison, tight end Mike Massey, and cornerback Morgan Trent. There is no truth to the rumor that running back Mike Hart was granted an extra year of eligibility in order to have one final chance to finally defeat Ohio State.
:wisc2: WISCONSIN BADGERS
Bret Bielema will begin his third season as head coach for Wisconsin this fall, and went 9-4 last year after going 12-1 in his rookie year of 2006.
Bielema said that he's still learning about these coaching functions. "I didn't even know you could say 'butt'. Then the old guy stands up and says something about another coach's wife. I don't have a wife to introduce. if anybody stands up I am in trouble."
Multiple backs return to the squad that was second in the Big Ten in rushing offense. P.J. Hill, who scored 15 TDs despite injury problems, will be backed up by Zach Brown and Lance Smith - the three combined for over 2200 yards rushing last year. New starting QB Allen Evridge will try to get the ball to tight end Travis Beckum, whose 75 catches made him first-team all conference; while guard Kraig Urbik, who earned second team honors, leads a large and experienced O-Line. Pass blocking needs to improve, though, as they were ninth in the league in sacks allowed.
New defensive coordinator Dave Doeren inherits a unit that was in the middle of the pack in most statistical categories, but was only ninth in the conference in sacks. Almost everyone returns, including second-team all Big Ten performer Matt Shaughnessy (who broke his leg this spring), and leading tackler Jonathan Casillas. Injury problems are a real concern, however, as both corners and a defensive tackle are all recovering from torn ACLs.
The Badgers must replace all conference performers in kicker Taylor Mehlhaff and punter Ken DeBauche. The team was first in the league in punt return average last year.
The non-conference schedule includes Akron, Marshall, Cal-Poly and a trip to Fresno State. Although the conference slate misses Northwestern and Purdue, they do get to host Illinois, Penn State, and Ohio State (which has been made a night game).
Wisconsin has gone to a bowl game in 11 of the last 12 seasons, and their last Big Ten title was in 1999.
Wisconsin's player representatives were three seniors: tight end Travis Beckum, defensive tackle Jason Chapman, and guard Andy Kemp.
:bigten2:
Emcee Brent Musberger then introduced Big Ten Assistant Commissioner Brad Traviola, who was filling in for Commissioner Jim Delany. Traviola explained that Delany made it through the media sessions on Thursday, but a temporary ailment prevented him from attending on Friday.
Earlier in the day, the crowd was asked to recognize Wayne Duke, who initiated these Conference Kickoff Luncheons in 1971.
:iowa2: IOWA HAWKEYES
Iowa's Kirk Ferentz has followed three great years with three mediocre seasons. After 3 consecutive 10-win seasons (out of 6 for the program all-time), which had each resulted in a #8 final ranking nationally from 2002 through 2004, the Hawkeyes are only one game over .500 over the last 3 years, and didn't get invited to a bowl game last year. And there was troubling off-the-field news this week about how the athletic department and the university handled an incident involving two football players last year, although those players are no longer with the team. But while such topics are raised during media interviews on Thursday, the subject wouldn't be discussed during the kickoff luncheon.
Ferentz said "Congrats to Coach Paterno for winning the 2008 Big Ten Coaches Spelling Bee." (Very few understood the reference). He said that the Hawkeyes were "a fairly young ball club, but have a good deal of experience, which is unusual."
Iowa really struggled on offense last year, finishing last in the conference in both total offense and scoring. QB Jake Christensen only threw 6 interceptions, but a 53.5 completion percentage and an average of 6.1 yards per attempt resulted in him having the lowest efficiency rating among the league's starting QBs. It can't all be placed on the QB of course, as injuries hurt the receiving corps last year, and the line allowed a league-worst 46 sacks. To make matters worse in 2008, the rushing attack loses Albert Young and Damian Sims, so there is little experience at running back.
On the defensive side, Iowa was very solid, finishing third in the league in scoring defense. The Hawkeyes led the conference in turnover margin. They had impressive efforts in limiting Wisconsin to 17 points in a tough road loss, and in holding Illinois to a pair of field goals in a 10-6 win. The squad will also need to overcome having five defensive players selected in the NFL draft, as well as the pressure to hold the opponents scoring way down since the offense should once again struggle.
Representing the Hawkeyes were three seniors: offensive lineman Seth Olsen, and defensive tackles Mike King and Matt Kroul.
:osu2: OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
James Laurinaitis was the only player to address the audience. He said "This is extremely humbling, to speak at the same microphone as Joe Paterno and Joe Tiller. What really represents the Big Ten? What comes to mind is class." James also praised the facilities and the academics within the conference. He said "I'm extremely proud to represent not only Ohio State, but also the whole Big Ten Conference."
Jim Tressel will be guiding Ohio State for the eighth time in 2008. The Buckeyes have reached the BCS Championship Game three times in that stretch, including a win for the 2002 National Championship. The current team is looking to reach the title game for a third straight season, and to replicate the outcome from January, 2003.
Coach Tressel talked about what a great event the luncheon was, that the players "are the role models for college athletics". He welcomed Coach Rodriguez to the conference, and said "class is what this conference is all about." Tressel said that he was "getting some barbs" about writing a book and having it on the New York Times bestseller list.
He then said "Football is what we do. Academics is what we do. But who we are is more important," and he talked about the opportunity to serve others.
He mentioned that Ohio State President E. Gordon Gee was dealing with the very recent death of his son-in-law, and that "the spirit of the University" wuold help him.
The Buckeye offense was only 9th in the conference in yards per game last year, ahead of only Michigan and Iowa; but was 4th in scoring average. There was true balance between rushing and passing, however, as over the course of the season only 12 more yards were gained through the air. There is a good deal of experience returning, as the unit only needs to replace the right tackle and fullback positions.
The defense led the nation in passing yards allowed, total defense, and scoring defense in 2007. Once again, only two starters need to be replaced: defensive end Vernon Gholston (who set a team record with 14 sacks), and linebacker Larry Grant. The DE spot figures to be filled by Lawrence Wilson, who started last season only to be lost for the year almost immediately.
There is definite room for improvement in two categories for the Buckeyes: they were 117th nationally in kickoff returns, and were only 76th in turnover margin.
The month of September includes the biggest non-conference game in college football this year: a road trip to Southern California. The conference schedule avoids Iowa and Indiana, includes a night game at Wisconsin, a rare night game at the 'Shoe against Penn State sandwiched between trips to Michigan State and Northwestern, and has a trip to Illinois slated one week before a visit from the Wolverines for The Game.
Ohio State's player representatives were seniors Todd Boeckman, James Laurinaitis, ans Malcolm Jenkins.
Boeckman was a 2007 First-Team All-Big Ten performer at quarterback after leading the Big Ten in passing efficiency (148.9) and ranking 13th nationally in his first year as a starter. The St. Henry, Ohio, native passed for 2,379 yards - the fifth most by a Buckeye all-time - and 25 touchdowns.
A consensus All-American the last two seasons, Laurinaitis anchored the nation's top-ranked defense in 2007 with a team-high 121 tackles. He was the Big Ten?s 2007 Defensive Player of the Year and the recipient of the 2007 Butkus and 2006 Nagurski Awards.
Jenkins is a two-time first-team All-Big Ten honoree, a second-team All-American last season and a Thorpe Award semifinalist. Last year Jenkins helped the Buckeye secondary lead the nation in pass and pass efficiency defense and led the team with four interceptions for 53 yards.
At the end of the luncheon some door prizes were awarded ... (a Rose Bowl hotel/ticket package, and 6 footballs, one for each of the college QB's attending). Each person winning a football simply stood up at their table, and had one of the QB's throw them the ball across the ballroom. The throws were between 20 and 35 yards, but none of the prize winners caught the ball, and only two of them were on target.
The Big Ten Kickoff Luncheon annually draws some of the most interesting and talented names in college sports. The list of former Kickoff Luncheon attendees includes coaching legends like Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler, along with each of the Big Ten's Heisman Trophy winners in the last 37 years - Archie Griffin, Desmond Howard, Eddie George, Charles Woodson, Ron Dayne, and Troy Smith.
On Friday morning, individual players met with media members starting at 8 a.m. At 10:00 a.m. they were at a different table for each of the 11 teams, signing autographs. From approximately 11:30 until 1:30, a luncheon for over 1,700 people was held in the Hyatt Regency Chicago's Grand Ballroom.
Each coach spoke briefly during the luncheon, which was hosted by Brent Musberger from ABC/ESPN Sports. Brent started off by saying that "When he was in the 'Green Room' for media interviews, many of the players had looks of disappointment - they thought Erin Andrews would host this luncheon".
A highlight film was shown, and the narrator stated that every team in the conference returns at least half of its starters for the first time in 5 years.
:nw2:NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS
Friday's luncheon was open for those who had purchased tickets. Brent Musberger made some opening remarks, and then introduced Pat Fitzgerald, who is now in his third season. Fitzgerald, age 33, was a two-time Bednarik Award winner (national defensive player of the year) for Northwestern in the mid-'90s, including their Rose Bowl team, and has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
The coach told Brent that it was great to see "another Wildcat at the Big Ten luncheon." He said that the conference lost a great coach and a great man in Lloyd Carr, and talked about Joe Tiller, who will be coaching his last season at Purdue. He said that since Tiller joined the league, the players no longer wear big neck rolls anymore, as Fitzgerald himself and former Boiler Mike Alstott used to wear.
The Wildcats finished in a 4-way tie for seventh in the Big Ten standings last year, with a 3-5 mark in conference play. They return quarterback C.J. Bacher and RB Tyrell Sutton, who was injured for much of last season. The defense is now under the guidance of coordinator Mike Hankwitz (formerly at Wisconsin) and will feature more attacking schemes. They return 8 starters on defense, as well as getting back safety Brendan Smith, who missed most of last year with a bad shoulder.
Last year the Wildcats managed to rank second in the conference in total offense per game, but next-to-last in scoring. The 19 interceptions thrown by C.J. Bacher help explain that disparity, and having Tyrell Sutton only play half the season led to them being last in the league in rushing. They'll try to improve on that performance, despite an undersized and fairly inexperienced offensive line, by featuring a hurry-up offense under new OC Mick McCall. Leading receiver Eric Peterman is back, so that helps.
The conference schedule may help Northwestern this year, since they miss Penn State and Wisconsin, and their road games are at Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, and Michigan. Their season starts on August 30th by hosting Syracuse, and the next week has them going to Duke, where they'll be seeking some revenge for last year's embarrassing loss.
The players representing the Wildcats were three seniors: quarterback C.J. Bacher, wide receiver Eric Peterman, and running back Tyrell Sutton.
Brent then introduced Joe Tiller, saying that "We want to thank Joe for a special salad dressing today - snake oil and vinegar." - a reference to Tiller's comments about Rich Rodriguez at the end of the last recruiting season.
:purdue2: PURDUE BOILERMAKERS
Joe Tiller is starting his 12th and final season as the coach at Purdue. The Boilermakers have named Danny Hope to succeed Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the OC at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
Tiller has not only raised the level of play at Purdue, famously bringing "basketball on grass" to the Big Ten in the 1990s, he has made the Big Ten luncheons more lively with his sense of humor.
Coach Tiller said that after Purdue, he and his wife will return to Wyoming. He said that many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but "it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
He also welcomed Rich Rodriguez to the conference, but he first called him "Coach Alvarez", and then said "I was thinking of Barry - I need a haircut and he and I share the same barber".
He then told a story about last year's Ohio State game. He said that he's from Toledo, and at the game in West Lafayette last year, their stadium holds about 63,000 and Ohio State had about 43,000 fans, many outside the stadium without tickets. He said his brother heard a Boiler fan and a Buckeye fan talking about game tickets in the parking lot. The Boiler fan had a ticket, and the Buckeye fan said "How much?" The Purdue fan said "You can have it, my wife recently died and I don't have anybody to go to the game with." The Buckeye fan said "There are no sons or daughters, or other relatives?" and the Boiler fan said "They're all at the funeral."
Last season started fairly typically for recent Purdue teams: they scored a ton of points against weaker non-conference opponents, raised the expectations coming into the Big Ten season, and then struggled to score against tougher competition. Coming into the Big Ten opener last year with a scoring average of over 45 points, they didn't dent the scoreboard against tOSU until the final three minutes of the game.
This year the offense that led the league in total yards and scoring last year returns senior Curtis Painter, who already has 8,763 career passing yards. The loss of Dorien Bryant (292 career catches) and tight end Dustin Keller might slow the attack some, but if Painter stays healthy he should easily surpass Drew Brees's career Big Ten passing record of 11,792 yards.
Kory Sheets and Jaycen Taylor each averaged over 5 yards per carry last year, and they combined for 15 rushing TDs. Greg Orton's 67 catches tie him with Minnesota's Eric Decker for the most by any returning Big Ten wide receiver.
On defense, outside LB Anthony Heygood received honorable mention on the All Big Ten teams last year, and is among 6 returning starters for coordinator Brock Spack, who has been the DC for the entire 12 years under Tiller. This year, he will also once again coach the llnebackers, after spending the last couple of seasons with the safeties.
Although this year's conference schedule once again excludes Illinois and Wisconsin, this team is not expected to challenge for the league crown. If the Boilers can at least gain a split in their two significant non-conference games, hosting Oregon and facing Notre Dame in South Bend, it will help the outside perception of the conference.
Purdue's player representatives were three seniors: wide receiver Greg Orton, linebacker Anthony Heygood, and three-time attendee QB Curtis Painter.
:psu2: PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS
Brent Musberger then introduced Penn State's Joe Paterno, and said that Paterno holds NCAA records for coaching in 34 bowl games and for winning 23 of them.
JoePa said he had some reaction to what Joe Tiller had said, looking at Tiller while saying "the snow in Wyoming - it would take a lot of snow to fill up your rear end." Joe then said that several years ago, when Rich Rodriguez was a player at West Virginia, his wife Rita was a cheerleader there. Paterno said that many years later, he met them both again at a Nike camp and Rita asked JoePa if he remembered her when she was a cheerleader at WVU? Paterno responded "Of course I do. I've gotten old, but I'm not that old!"
He then said that he received a package from the new Michigan coach marked "Please handle with care, for Coach Paterno." JoePa said he was excited about opening a special gift, and "opened it to find a picture of the JoePa statue in front of Beaver Stadium, but with a Michigan jersey on it."
He then said it used to be great to follow Lloyd Carr to the podium, since he was such a lousy talker." He then congratulated the Northwestern coach, saying "It's great that Pat Fitzgerald, a young guy, got into the College Hall of Fame. It only took me 58 years."
JoePa, at age 81, is entering his 43rd season as the head man for the Nittany Lions, and last year he broke Amos Alonzo Stagg's record of 41 years as the head coach of a major college team. The comments of Paterno being too old for the job subsided in 2005, when his team claimed a Big Ten co-championship and he was voted national coach of the year for a record 5th time by the AFCA. But after a pair of 9-4 seasons, the Pennsylvania natives are again restless, partly due to losing some high-profile recruiting battles to Ohio State.
After not winning a bowl game over a 5-year period (2000-04), JoePa has ended each of the last three seasons with a bowl victory. The Alamo Bowl win over Texas A&M last December was his 372nd victory at Penn State, leaving him 1 behind Bowden's all-time record for major college coaches.
It's worth noting that while the conference schedule missed Minnesota and Northwestern last year, the non-conference slate consisted of: Buffalo, Temple, Florida International, and a home game against Notre Dame.
There's plenty of experience returning on offense, including the entire O-Line, receivers Derrick Williams and Deon Butler, and tight end Andrew Quarless (if he stays out of more trouble). But the Nittany Lions need to replace quarterback Anthony Morelli, which may hurt the chances of the Thorpe Award for Malcolm Jenkins. Junior Daryll Clark is expected to start the season, rather than Pat Devlin, since Clark's mobility is an asset for the spread offense they're looking to run. Evan Royster, who averaged 6.3 yards per carry last year, figures to get most of the RB carries for a team whose 4.8 ypc was second in the Big Ten last year, behind only Illinois.
On the defensive side, Penn State finished 7th in the country in both rushing defense and scoring defense last year, and they were second in the nation in sacks. But the LB corps not only lost Dan Connor to the NFL, Sean Lee will miss the 2008 season after suffering a torn ACL in spring ball. There is now an uncertainty among Nittany fans regarding the designated PSU defender for the Bednarik award.
The kicking game is solid, although Kevin Kelly struggles beyond 40 yards. The team was third in the country in net punting.
The schedule again bypasses Minnesota and Northwestern, which should work against them. They have designated the Michigan game as Homecoming, possibly thinking that will be the trick to ending a 9-game skid against the Wolverines. The non-conference schedule includes a visit from Oregon State.
Penn State was represented by three seniors at the meetings: defensive end Josh Gaines, center A.Q. Shipley, and wide receiver/kick returner Derrick Williams.
:minn2: MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS
Next up was Tim Brewster, who returns after going 1-11 in his first year after replacing Glen Mason at Minnesota. After getting a win against Miami of Ohio in week 2, the team finished with 10 straight losses, going 0-8 in the Big Ten and dropping decisions to FCS (1-AA) North Dakota State and Florida Atlantic.
Brewster said that he had a recurring conversation with Minnesota fans over the summer. He would say "I think we're going to be a much improved football team", and the response was "Damn, I hope so."
This year, Minnesota opens against Northern Illinois before traveling to Bowling Green, and completes their non-conference slate by hosting Montana State and Florida Atlantic before kicking off their Big Ten schedule in the 'Shoe on September 27th. Missing Penn State and Michigan State in the conference rotation isn't a bad break.
The offense will be led by sophomore QB Adam Weber, who actually had a higher QB rating than Juice Williams last year, in addition to rushing for 617 yards. Wide receiver Eric Decker had 75.8 receiving yards per game last year, best among all returning receivers in the Big Ten, and scored 9 TDs. The O-line played well, since Minnesota had the fewest sacks allowed in the league, but the team needs to find production at RB and get a replacement for WR Ernie Wheelwright.
The defense was simply awful last year, allowing a nation's-worst 518.7 yards per game. They will now be led by new DC Ted Roof, the former head man at Duke, who hopes to benefit from a good recruiting class which included a few junior college players. Although Minnesota is probably still a few years away from winning it's first conference title since 1967, they are looking forward to the completion of TCF Bank Stadium, a new on-campus facility scheduled to open in time for the 2009 football season.
Player representatives for the Gophers were sophomore QB Adam Weber, junior wide receiver Eric Decker, and senior linebacker Steve Davis.
:msu2: MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS
Mark Dantonio begins his second season at Michigan State after opening with a 7-6 record, which was an improvement after 3 straight losing seasons under John L. Smith. A telling statistic is that each of the 6 losses was by 7 points or fewer. The team last won a conference title in 1990.
Dantonio stated that "Last year was centered on earning respect." He said that "things go in cycles - we're about ready to turn the page."
The Spartans have some weapons on offense, returning senior QB Brian Hoyer and senior RB Javon Ringer (1,447 yards, 5.9 per carry) from the unit that was second in the conference in scoring average. But they will miss the 21 TDs of Jehuu Caulcrick and the league-best 1,260 receiving yards of Devin Thomas.
Despite being 4th in the league in total defense and 2nd in turnover margin, the defense was only 8th in points allowed. Their 7.7 tackles-for-loss were only slightly behind the 7.9 of league-leader Ohio State. Up front, Cincinnati transfer Trevor Anderson will try to apply pressure like the departed Jonal Saint-Dic. Freshman All-American Greg Jones will be a force at linebacker.
The team was first in the Big Ten in kick return average with Devin Thomas leading the way, but were last in punt return average.
The schedule starts with a tough trip to Cal, followed by home dates with Eastern Michigan, Florida Atlantic, and Notre Dame. The conference rotation bypasses Illinois and Minnesota, and they host Iowa, Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Purdue.
Michigan State's representatives were three seniors: QB Brian Hoyer, running back Javon Ringer, and defensive tackle Justin Kershaw.
:ind2: INDIANA HOOSIERS
After Bill Lynch became head coach at Indiana following the death of Terry Hoeppner last year, there was one all-important goal: to "play 13" games. The team achieved that by going to a bowl game for for the first time since 1993 (you'll remember that bowl season as the last time that a certain team from the northern past of Indiana won a bowl game).
Lynch said "I'm going to keep my remarks brief - if you're like me, a lot of us need to go to the rest room." He asked Marcus Thigpen to stand, and said "How about that suit?" (It was bright orange). Lynch than stated "Come to Bloomington for a game and you can get a suit like that."
QB Kellen Lewis was a second team All-Conference selection at QB last year, and he returns despite missing spring practice for violating team rules. He was the team's leading rusher with 736 yards, and was second in passing efficiency among Big Ten QBs. The team must somehow replace the production of James Hardy, whose 16 receiving TDs led the league. Junior Marcus Thigpen has been electric as a kick returner, but hasn't been able to gain yards consistently out of the backfield.
Junior defensive end Greg Middleton blossomed into a star last year, earning All-Big Ten honors with 16 sacks, the most in the country. In all, seven starters return from a unit that improved over 2006, but struggled against the better teams.
The placekicking duties are in excellent shape with Groza finalist Austin Starr, who made 21 of 23 FG attempts, and scored the most points last year among players returning to the Big Ten.
The Hoosiers have not won a conference title since 1967.
Indiana's player representatives were 3 seniors: defensive tackle Greg Brown, kicker Austin Starr, and orange-suited RB Marcus Thigpen.
:ill2: ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI
Brent then introduced Ron Zook, who asked Brent if he had any athletic grandkids in need of a scholarship offer (OK, not really). Zook coached the Illini to 9 wins in 2007, which is more than the team had in the combined seasons from 2003 through 2006. Two years ago, when someone apologized for under-renovation Memorial stadium for it being "a lot of dirt and a big mess", Zook replied "Well, so's our football team." After winning the 2007 Dave McClain Big Ten Coach of the Year Award for taking the Fighting Illini to the Rose Bowl last year, he no longer needs to make jokes at his team's expense.
He did say "I'm going into my fourth year, and next year I'll be the 4th longest coach after Joe Tiller retires." He said he is telling his players that "the most important thing for our team is to remember how we got there" (there being the Rose Bowl).
He then said "Welcome, Rich Rodriguez, ... where is he?" looking side to side.
Although finishing last in passing yardage, Illinois led the conference in rushing and had the only offense in the league which averaged over 6 yards per offensive snap in 2007. Despite losing the 1,681 rushing yards and 19 TDs by Silver Football (Big Ten MVP) winner Rashard Mendenhall, the Illinois offense should again be potent under junior QB Juice Williams. Receiver Arrelious Benn is a dangerous target on the outside.
On defense, senior LB Brit Miller will shift to the middle and try to replace the 132 tackles that J Leman made last year. Junior CB Vontae Davis will most likely be battling tOSU's Malcolm Jenkins for the unofficial title of "best shutdown" corner in the conference, but the team ranking of 10th in the league in passing yards allowed shows that he needs some help.
The Illini open the season against Missouri, the favorite in the Big 12 North this year. The conference schedule misses MSU and Purdue, but includes road trips to Penn State, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In November there is a dangerous "trap game" at Western Michigan, before hosting conference favorite Ohio State, which will be looking to avenge the game at the 'Shoe that knocked the Buckeyes from the #1 ranking.
The Fighting Illini's representatives were senior offensive lineman Ryan McDonald, senior linebacker Brit Miller, and junior QB Juice Williams.
Brent Musberger, referring to Coach Zook having trouble spotting Rich Rodriguez, said "Obviously you haven't driven through West Virginia this year, you'd have seen all those wanted posters." - then introduced Coach Rodriguez.
:scum2: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES
The only team with a first-year coach this year is the Wolverines, who brought in Rich Rodriguez to replace Lloyd Carr. Carr won a national championship at Michigan in 1997, but his 1-6 record against Jim Tressel, along with a loss to Appalachian State, seemed to cause everyone up north to want a new man at the helm. But it's obvious that nobody in charge up there foresaw the PR mess that evolved from Rodriguez trying to not pay the $4 million in liquidated damages contained in his contract with West Virginia.
Rodriguez said that "It's nice to talk football, after a lot of other things ... "What they say about change is true, change is hard - and costly." He then said the length of the speeches was no problem for Joe Paterno, if JoePa "had to go to the bathroom, he'll just get up and go - whether he's at a game, a banquet, whatever."
He said that in the fall, he'd have 110,000 fans - and that 109,000 of them would be offensive coordinators." He also mentioned that Rita still had to sell the house in West Virginia. "She drives through Ohio (lots of state troopers), then drives through Pittsburgh (not any better), and then West Virginia. There's more than (wanted) posters, they sell a lot of guns in that state. So Rita changes the license plates when going there."
The Michigan offense finished a disappointing 10th in the conference in total yards, only ahead of Iowa. From that unit, they lose the school's all-time leading rusher (picture an exercise bike), the school's all-time leading passer (picture not Lloyd Carr, but Lloyd Christmas), the conference leader in receiving yards per game (recall someone with a case of Braylon-itis in The Game last year), the #1 overall pick in the NFL draft (Jake Long), an all-conference guard (Adam Kraus), and another lineman who received honorable mention all-conference and decided to transfer to Ohio State. Also, the former "QB-of the-future" up north transferred to Arkansas, which has thankfully saved Big Ten fans from hearing hundreds of "Big Tex" references from today's emcee.
In an effort to install his spread-option offense, the new head coach has brought in numerous slot-back types and an S&C coach that works the players until they cry "wolf" -at which point the S&C coach says "I had one of those as a pet!"; but despite using his "pryor" team's phone in an attempt to induce the right guy to run his offense to head to Ann Arbor, this year's QB appears destined to be Steven Threet, a transfer from Georgia Tech who's more of a traditional dropback guy with some mobility. The track record indicates that Rodriquez will have a successful offense at Michigan, but it's bound to take a couple of years to get the right personnel in place and work out the kinks.
The Wolverines were third in the Big Ten in total defense, and second in pass defense. They return a talented defensive line, although depth up front is a concern. At linebacker, Obi Ezeh returns, but gone is Shawn Crable, with his impressive tackles-for-loss total and his unimpressive blocking on the FG unit. The secondary loses both starting safeties, and is also hoping to lose the game films from Appalachian State and Oregon.
The schedule includes non-conference games hosting Utah, Miami (Ohio), and Toledo, along with a trip to South Bend in September. The Big Ten portion leaves out Indiana and Iowa, which is a bad break. The conference opener is against Wisconsin, and there's a road trip to Penn State as well as the season-ending tilt in Columbus. The Wolverines will be trying to extend their streak of 33 straight seasons with a bowl game (the all-time mark is Nebraska's 35, but that streak ended in 2004).
Michigan's representatives were all seniors: defensive end Tim Jamison, tight end Mike Massey, and cornerback Morgan Trent. There is no truth to the rumor that running back Mike Hart was granted an extra year of eligibility in order to have one final chance to finally defeat Ohio State.
:wisc2: WISCONSIN BADGERS
Bret Bielema will begin his third season as head coach for Wisconsin this fall, and went 9-4 last year after going 12-1 in his rookie year of 2006.
Bielema said that he's still learning about these coaching functions. "I didn't even know you could say 'butt'. Then the old guy stands up and says something about another coach's wife. I don't have a wife to introduce. if anybody stands up I am in trouble."
Multiple backs return to the squad that was second in the Big Ten in rushing offense. P.J. Hill, who scored 15 TDs despite injury problems, will be backed up by Zach Brown and Lance Smith - the three combined for over 2200 yards rushing last year. New starting QB Allen Evridge will try to get the ball to tight end Travis Beckum, whose 75 catches made him first-team all conference; while guard Kraig Urbik, who earned second team honors, leads a large and experienced O-Line. Pass blocking needs to improve, though, as they were ninth in the league in sacks allowed.
New defensive coordinator Dave Doeren inherits a unit that was in the middle of the pack in most statistical categories, but was only ninth in the conference in sacks. Almost everyone returns, including second-team all Big Ten performer Matt Shaughnessy (who broke his leg this spring), and leading tackler Jonathan Casillas. Injury problems are a real concern, however, as both corners and a defensive tackle are all recovering from torn ACLs.
The Badgers must replace all conference performers in kicker Taylor Mehlhaff and punter Ken DeBauche. The team was first in the league in punt return average last year.
The non-conference schedule includes Akron, Marshall, Cal-Poly and a trip to Fresno State. Although the conference slate misses Northwestern and Purdue, they do get to host Illinois, Penn State, and Ohio State (which has been made a night game).
Wisconsin has gone to a bowl game in 11 of the last 12 seasons, and their last Big Ten title was in 1999.
Wisconsin's player representatives were three seniors: tight end Travis Beckum, defensive tackle Jason Chapman, and guard Andy Kemp.
:bigten2:
Emcee Brent Musberger then introduced Big Ten Assistant Commissioner Brad Traviola, who was filling in for Commissioner Jim Delany. Traviola explained that Delany made it through the media sessions on Thursday, but a temporary ailment prevented him from attending on Friday.
Earlier in the day, the crowd was asked to recognize Wayne Duke, who initiated these Conference Kickoff Luncheons in 1971.
:iowa2: IOWA HAWKEYES
Iowa's Kirk Ferentz has followed three great years with three mediocre seasons. After 3 consecutive 10-win seasons (out of 6 for the program all-time), which had each resulted in a #8 final ranking nationally from 2002 through 2004, the Hawkeyes are only one game over .500 over the last 3 years, and didn't get invited to a bowl game last year. And there was troubling off-the-field news this week about how the athletic department and the university handled an incident involving two football players last year, although those players are no longer with the team. But while such topics are raised during media interviews on Thursday, the subject wouldn't be discussed during the kickoff luncheon.
Ferentz said "Congrats to Coach Paterno for winning the 2008 Big Ten Coaches Spelling Bee." (Very few understood the reference). He said that the Hawkeyes were "a fairly young ball club, but have a good deal of experience, which is unusual."
Iowa really struggled on offense last year, finishing last in the conference in both total offense and scoring. QB Jake Christensen only threw 6 interceptions, but a 53.5 completion percentage and an average of 6.1 yards per attempt resulted in him having the lowest efficiency rating among the league's starting QBs. It can't all be placed on the QB of course, as injuries hurt the receiving corps last year, and the line allowed a league-worst 46 sacks. To make matters worse in 2008, the rushing attack loses Albert Young and Damian Sims, so there is little experience at running back.
On the defensive side, Iowa was very solid, finishing third in the league in scoring defense. The Hawkeyes led the conference in turnover margin. They had impressive efforts in limiting Wisconsin to 17 points in a tough road loss, and in holding Illinois to a pair of field goals in a 10-6 win. The squad will also need to overcome having five defensive players selected in the NFL draft, as well as the pressure to hold the opponents scoring way down since the offense should once again struggle.
Representing the Hawkeyes were three seniors: offensive lineman Seth Olsen, and defensive tackles Mike King and Matt Kroul.
:osu2: OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
James Laurinaitis was the only player to address the audience. He said "This is extremely humbling, to speak at the same microphone as Joe Paterno and Joe Tiller. What really represents the Big Ten? What comes to mind is class." James also praised the facilities and the academics within the conference. He said "I'm extremely proud to represent not only Ohio State, but also the whole Big Ten Conference."
Jim Tressel will be guiding Ohio State for the eighth time in 2008. The Buckeyes have reached the BCS Championship Game three times in that stretch, including a win for the 2002 National Championship. The current team is looking to reach the title game for a third straight season, and to replicate the outcome from January, 2003.
Coach Tressel talked about what a great event the luncheon was, that the players "are the role models for college athletics". He welcomed Coach Rodriguez to the conference, and said "class is what this conference is all about." Tressel said that he was "getting some barbs" about writing a book and having it on the New York Times bestseller list.
He then said "Football is what we do. Academics is what we do. But who we are is more important," and he talked about the opportunity to serve others.
He mentioned that Ohio State President E. Gordon Gee was dealing with the very recent death of his son-in-law, and that "the spirit of the University" wuold help him.
The Buckeye offense was only 9th in the conference in yards per game last year, ahead of only Michigan and Iowa; but was 4th in scoring average. There was true balance between rushing and passing, however, as over the course of the season only 12 more yards were gained through the air. There is a good deal of experience returning, as the unit only needs to replace the right tackle and fullback positions.
The defense led the nation in passing yards allowed, total defense, and scoring defense in 2007. Once again, only two starters need to be replaced: defensive end Vernon Gholston (who set a team record with 14 sacks), and linebacker Larry Grant. The DE spot figures to be filled by Lawrence Wilson, who started last season only to be lost for the year almost immediately.
There is definite room for improvement in two categories for the Buckeyes: they were 117th nationally in kickoff returns, and were only 76th in turnover margin.
The month of September includes the biggest non-conference game in college football this year: a road trip to Southern California. The conference schedule avoids Iowa and Indiana, includes a night game at Wisconsin, a rare night game at the 'Shoe against Penn State sandwiched between trips to Michigan State and Northwestern, and has a trip to Illinois slated one week before a visit from the Wolverines for The Game.
Ohio State's player representatives were seniors Todd Boeckman, James Laurinaitis, ans Malcolm Jenkins.
Boeckman was a 2007 First-Team All-Big Ten performer at quarterback after leading the Big Ten in passing efficiency (148.9) and ranking 13th nationally in his first year as a starter. The St. Henry, Ohio, native passed for 2,379 yards - the fifth most by a Buckeye all-time - and 25 touchdowns.
A consensus All-American the last two seasons, Laurinaitis anchored the nation's top-ranked defense in 2007 with a team-high 121 tackles. He was the Big Ten?s 2007 Defensive Player of the Year and the recipient of the 2007 Butkus and 2006 Nagurski Awards.
Jenkins is a two-time first-team All-Big Ten honoree, a second-team All-American last season and a Thorpe Award semifinalist. Last year Jenkins helped the Buckeye secondary lead the nation in pass and pass efficiency defense and led the team with four interceptions for 53 yards.
At the end of the luncheon some door prizes were awarded ... (a Rose Bowl hotel/ticket package, and 6 footballs, one for each of the college QB's attending). Each person winning a football simply stood up at their table, and had one of the QB's throw them the ball across the ballroom. The throws were between 20 and 35 yards, but none of the prize winners caught the ball, and only two of them were on target.