Big Ten Spotlight: Five players that emerged this spring
CLASS OF 2020 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | State | Position | Team
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Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
Spring football is in the books and many players across Power Five conferences took the next step forward or in some cases their first step towards stardom. This week we look at some of those standouts and we begin with the Big Ten.
DAMION DANIELS - Nebraska
The skinny: Daniels took an official visit to Nebraska in September, and later to Colorado and UTSA, but it was the visit to Lincoln that stuck with him. While he then waited until National Signing Day to make his final decision, he made his commitment to the Huskers during a televised press conference. After receiving only minimal playing time as a true freshman, Daniels arrived at spring camp bigger, stronger and eager to prove himself. Along with his brother Darrion, who is now in Lincoln after his graduate transfer from Oklahoma State, the duo should give the Huskers a formidable duo on the interior defensive line in 2019.
Farrell’s take: Daniels was a short and stout defensive tackle who could handle the run and push the pocket and I like the way he has developed. Now teamed with his brother, he could be a tough player to deal with in the Big Ten for opponents. He’s the kind of kid that Scott Frost likes, a hustler with a good motor and who is tireless in his pursuit. The Nebraska defense is starting to come together.
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NATHAN HOBBS - Illinois
The skinny: Hobbs initially committed to Western Kentucky during his senior season, but after taking a visit to Illinois, and eventually picking up the offer, he flipped to the Illini in late December. While Hobbs has made 17 starts during his first two seasons with the Illini, inconsistencies plagued his output. If this spring is a sign of things to come, then he has begun to piece everything together. Now a team leader on the defensive unit, Hobbs has showcased the tools that could make him one of the top cornerbacks in the Big Ten this fall.
Farrell’s take: Hobbs had solid size coming out but lacked strength and speed, which is why he was a two-star. Now he’s added muscle to his frame, he’s gotten faster and has shown some excellent instincts. I also think his leadership ability is a big deal as he came from a big high school and was a leader at that level. If Illinois can produce more and more impact players that were overlooked, this season could be a surprise to many.
