Some players to watch in the Big Ten Conference this season. Offensive player of the year: Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 18 touchdowns and 1,878 yards last season, including 696 in three postseason games against Wisconsin, Alabama and Oregon. He might top 2,000 yards this season. Runner-up: Michigan State quarterback Connor Cook. Defensive player of the year: Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2014 and a consensus first-team All-American. He led the Big Ten with 21 tackles for loss and 13 1?2 sacks. Runner-up: Penn State defensive tackle Anthony Zettel. Best NFL prospect: Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa is a one-man wrecking crew for the Buckeyes defense. Biggest shoes to fill: Wisconsin running back Corey Clement watched Melvin Gordon rush for 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns last season, knowing he would replace Gordon this year. Freshman of the year: Michigan safety Jabrill Peppers began last season as a starting cornerback. …
Continue Reading: Big Ten at a glance
