Big Ten

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HOW THEY'LL FINISH

PLAYERS TO WATCH Top performers from unranked teams in the conference

Tony Brinkhaus, C MINNESOTA

The 6' 3", 295-pound senior, who earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors as a tackle in 2005, switched positions last fall. He will anchor the line as it makes the transition to the spread under new coach Tim Brewster.

Jordan Grimes, G PURDUE

Playing in a system that has relied mostly on finesse blocking, the 6' 3", 325-pound mauler is a throwback. A two-year starter, Grimes is the leader of a line that should be one of the best and most powerful in the Big Ten.

J Leman, MLB ILLINOIS

Once a hidden gem, the 6' 2", 237-pound senior averaged 12.7 tackles per game last year to earn All-Big Ten honors. He underwent ankle surgery last February, but he's expected to be ready for the season opener.

Kellen Lewis, QB INDIANA

As a redshirt freshman, Lewis led the Hoosiers in rushing (441 yards, five TDs) and passing (2,221 yards, 14 TDs). He'll be throwing to a deep and talented receiving corps that includes James Hardy (51 catches, 10 TDs).