Big Ten Fantasy Preview

The number one running back in the nation. The number one defense in the nation. The number two wideout in the conference. A top-40 quarterback nationally. The Ohio State Buckeyes have options.

However, the battle for the top quarterback will take place next door in Indiana. Purdue's Curtis Painter and Indiana's Kellen Lewis will likely be the top two options this season, even though both lost a good deal of receiving talent. However, do not overlook the value of signal callers like Adam Weber and C.J. Bacher.

Mike Hart and Rashard Mendenhall are both in the NFL. Javon Ringer, P.J. Hill, Tyrell Sutton and Beanie Wells are not. If there is one thing the Big Ten will always be able to do, its run the football. The most interesting storyline is in Ann Arbor, however.

The Michigan Wolverines will run the football and someone has to get the carries. Look for Brandon Minor to lead a host of options for zone-read guru Rich Rodriguez. This offense could be a lot better than people think.

Athlon’s Preseason Rankings (Updates coming soon)

Big Ten QB Rankings
Big Ten RB Rankings
Big Ten WR Rankings
Tight End Rankings
Kicker Rankings
Defense Rankings

Quarterback Battles

Michigan:
The Contenders: Steven Threet, Justin Feagin, Nick Sheridan
The Favorite: Threet. He went through spring practice as the starter and has the physical skills needed to be a starting quarterback at the University of Michigan. However, his skills may not fit what Rich Rod is looking for. Feagin – an overlooked recruit from Florida –  might be that guy. Pat White anyone?
Fantasy Impact: Wait and see – Feagin could be a hidden gem

Penn St:
The Contenders: Daryll Clark, Pat Devlin
The Favorite: Clark. Clark has more athletic ability but Devlin may have more skills as a pure quarterback. This should be an interesting battle. Expect both to see the field early in the season.
Fantasy Impact: Minimal

Wisconsin:
The Contenders: Allan Evridge, Dustin Sherer, Curt Phillips
The Favorite: Evridge. With experience as a starter at Kansas State, Evridge should be the starter in week one. Phillips is the future and possibly the most physically gifted quarterback recruit in Badger history. Sherer has spent the most time in the system.
Fantasy Impact: Minimal

Running Back Corps

Illinois
Fantasy stud Rashard Mendenhall left early to the draft so there is a void in the Illini backfield. With talent all over the offense, someone should experience big time fantasy success. Daniel Dufrene is the likely starter, but expectations should be tempered because true freshmen Jason Ford and Mikel LeShoure will also see time.

Iowa
With an experienced, talented - and maybe under achieving - offensive line, the Hawkeyes should be able to run the ball effectively in '08. Shonn Greene, returning after a brief hiatus, and juco Nate Guillory should compete for carries. Until someone proves they are deserving of 25 carries per game expect a commitee. Jeff Brinson should also factor in as well.

Michigan
Brandon Minor will be the guy. In fact, he will be lining up all over the field. However, it is up to him to hold off a very talented group of back-ups. Carlos Brown - who will also line up at quarterback - should be his main competition. YouTube sensation Sam McGuffie, the bruising but troubled Kevin Grady and Mike Shaw will all push for time as well.

Minnesota
What is historically been a fantasy superstar position, the Gopher running back has a new identity under new coach Tim Brewster. Duane Bennett should be the guy to start the year. He could be a pleasant surprise as this offense should be able to score a lot of points, but fantasy expectations should be tempered.

Penn St
In what should be a strong fantasy play, Evan Royster should put up a 1,000 yard season and double digit touchdowns. However, the intrigue is in back-up redshirt freshman Stephfon Green. Green is a game changer and can score from any where on the field. He may be the fastest running back to ever put on the Blue and White.

Wide Receiver/Tight Ends

Indiana
A huge void was left by the departed James Hardy. Ray Fisher looks to step up and be Kellen Lewis' top target in 2008. Andrew Means could also be an interesting option as well.

Michigan
Greg Mathews showed flashes of fantasy greatness with his play against the Florida Gators in the Citrus Bowl last season. Freshman Daryl Stonum could be a dark horse keeper option.

Michigan State
Mark Dell should step in and fill the Devin Thomas role nicely. The sleeper here is burner, deep threat redshirt freshman B.J. Cunningham.

Purdue
This fantasy corp should once again benefit from a Purdue offensive system. Greg Orton is a legit top-30 wideout nationally. Kyle Adams at tight end could also be a nice sleeper option.

Wisconsin
No one on this offense should expect big numbers this season but the talent and ability is definitely there. Gilreath has great speed and Jefferson is the big play guy. Al Toon's son Nick could be the most talented of the group.

Sleepers:

Brian Hoyer, QB, Michigan State
Solid o-line and great running game should lend itself to solid output in '08.

Brandon Minor, RB, Michigan
Do we seriously think a RichRod team won't run the ball well?

Andy Brodell, WR, Iowa
Its all about health. If he is on the field he is dangerous (ask Texas' Aaron Ross).

Kyle Adams, TE, Purdue
Dustin Keller put up great stats last season. No reason Adams can't come close.

Iowa, DEF
Solid d-line play should help lead this underrated defense.

Freshman to Watch:

Terrelle Pryor, QB, Ohio State
Justin Feagin, QB, Michigan
Mikel LaShoure / Jason Ford, RB, Illinois
Daryl Stonum, WR, Michigan

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