The Big Ten is riding a wave of momentum into the 2015 season—and what better way to begin testing that momentum than with Jim Harbaugh’s Michigan debut against Utah on Sept. 3. But a conference whose off-season shined brightest on the Wolverines and Ohio State has plenty of other teams on the move entering the 2015 campaign. Let’s check in on who’s rising, falling or could do either with some superlatives. Most improved: Penn State The Nittany Lions’ issues with depth and experience reached their apex last year; now comes the rebound. Despite a 2–6 conference record in 2014, Penn State boasted one of the top defenses in the country, allowing just 4.1 yards per play. That unit should be similarly stout this fall, led by stud defensive tackle Anthony Zettel. His pass-rushing ability can help offset the loss of both starting defensive ends, while the bulk of the linebacker corps returns and the secondary has strong experience at safety. The room for improvement comes on offense, where Christian Hackenberg can break out of his sophomore slump with the help of a less porous—though still somewhat inexperienced—offensive line. The addition of top JUCO tackle recruit Paris Palmer should help the Nittany Lions better their dreadful 8.13% sacks allowed percentage last season. Other than trips to Ohio State and Michigan State, every game is winnable. Most on the decline: Maryland The Terrapins’ first season in the Big Ten went about as well as could be expected. …
Continue Reading: Big Ten team superlatives: Who’s most improved, underrated, more?
