Big Ten 2012 Conference Preview

The Big Ten conference is definitely one of the more intriguing conferences coming into the 2012 college football season. There really isn't one team that has separated themselves from the rest of the pack, although the Michigan Wolverines appear to be a team on the rise that could wreak some havoc on both the conference and the national stage.

Led by Heisman Trophy candidate Denard Robinson, the Wolverines come off of an 11-win season that was capped off by a victory in the Sugar Bowl over Virginia Tech. So it's no wonder that there is quite a bit of preseason hype surrounding Robinson and his teammates when it comes to the favorites to win the Big Ten conference. But still on the national stage, Michigan barely squeaks into the top-10 favorites. But they do make the list, and lead the way in the conference.

Behind Michigan on the preseason order of merit going into the 2012 college football season are the Wisconsin Badgers and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Both are expected to be ranked inside the top-25 on the preseason rankings, but they aren't considered serious national title contenders. Wisconsin is going to have to figure out how to pass the ball with the departure of Russell Wilson. But it's a good thing that running back and 2011 Heisman finalist Montee Ball elected to return for his senior season. But if the Badgers can't throw the ball down the field, you can bet opposing defenses will be stacking eight or nine in the box. And for the Cornhuskers it's almost the same story, even though quarterback Taylor Martinez returns for his third season as the starter. He simply hasn't developed his mechanics as a thrower well enough, and is much better with his legs. The Cornhuskers are always a solid rushing team, but it's clear that there are some major flaws at the top of the Big Ten title contenders.

And then there is Urban Meyer and his first season as head coach for Ohio State. But the Buckeyes are sanctioned from competing in the Big Ten championship and a bowl game following the events surrounding Jim Tressel, and former players.