After a remarkable postseason run, times are changing. Don't count out the Big Ten just yet.
Penn State will be losing three of its most talented players going into the 2015 season, as tackle Donovan Smith, tight end Jesse James, and defensive end Deion Barnes have all decided to enter the 2015 NFL Draft. Here's a list of potential replacements and what we might expect to see of them next season.
Two of Penn State's most outstanding offensive linemen will be given a chance to showcase their skillsets and boost their NFL Draft stock in two of the most distinguished collegiate all-star contests in the months leading up to the draft. Smith has accepted an invitation to play in the Senior Bowl, while Dieffenbach was added to the East-West Shrine Game roster.
The Nittany Lions (12-2, 0-1) lost 89-72, despite a 29 point scoring outburst by D.J. Newbill, in a game nobody expected them to win. After a streak of hot shooting to begin the game, Penn State’s woeful second half start opened the door for the Badgers (13-1, 1-0) to jump ahead for good, ending the Lions’ impressive 10 game winning streak.
The NFL's regular season has come to a close, and teams fortunate enough to make the postseason will now be pitted against each other as they attempt to capture the ever-elusive Lombardi Trophy. Penn State has always held a presence in the NFL, with a total of 28 former Nittany Lions currently playing on NFL teams. That presence will be felt in the 2015 NFL playoffs, as 10 former Nittany Lions currently play on playoff bound teams. Let's take a look at which players will be playing for a chance to win the Super Bowl.
Penn State left tackle Donovan Smith, seen by most as the team's best offensive lineman, will forgo his senior season of eligibility and enter the 2015 NFL Draft.