Chicago - Although record-breaking wide receivers - instead of smash-mouth running backs - are receiving most of the preseason hype, the media seems to think the conference will return to the “Big Two, Little Eight” days of the Big Ten.
The league’s preseason poll, released at the 31st annual Big Ten Conference Kickoff Luncheon last week, tabbed Michigan and Ohio State to finish first and second, respectively, in the Big Ten football standings. U-M head coach Lloyd Carr said he’s honored by being the preseason favorite, but he didn’t expect it.
“I‘d have to question your intelligence,” he said to the media Thursday. “I tell our players that opinions disappear and records endure. The expectations at Michigan both from the people outside the program and inside the program are extremely high. It’s a compliment to our program and we’ll do everything we can to make you look good.”
U-M returns 15 starters, including eight from its defensive unit, which is expected to rank near the top of the conference.
MSU was third in the media’s poll - its highest placing since former head coach George Perles strolled the sidelines in 1988. Only the top three teams in the poll were released, putting MSU in some elite company.
Spartan head coach Bobby Williams said his team is ready for the challenge of meeting - or exceeding - the expectations of the poll.
“It’s up to us to go out there and play and prove that we deserve to be there,” the third-year coach said. “I always talk to these players about taking a step to the next level. Now, its time for us to take that next step. Now its time for us to perform. Now it’s time for us to take advantage of this opportunity.”
MSU junior wide receiver Charles Rogers, who is being touted as a Heisman Trophy candidate, received individual recognition as the league’s preseason Offensive Player of the Year.
Last season, the 6-foot-4, 205-pounder shredded the Spartan record books, setting four single-season records. Rogers amassed 67 receptions, 1,470 yards receiving, 14 touchdowns and six 100-yard receiving games.
In addition to the 11 conference coaches discussing their outlooks on the upcoming season, a few coaches also favorably talked about the possible addition of a 12th team to the Big Ten. Minnesota head coach Glen Mason said he supports expanding the league and adding a revenue-generating championship game, which the Southeastern Conference and Big 12 already have.
“We could use 12 teams, I think for scheduling and the whole deal,” Mason said. “I’m surprised we haven’t moved faster in that area already because of the lost revenue.”
Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany said the Big Ten hasn’t moved toward adding another team at all.
“We aren’t any closer in that area than we were two or three years ago when we had some interesting and lengthy discussions with Notre Dame,” he said. “Since then, we really have not pursued it.
“I would be for it if I was convinced on a number of levels that we would get a lot better. I wouldn’t do it just so we could have a championship football game, two divisions in basketball or save a few dollars on regional scheduling.”
What could be more fun?
Spartan Family Fun Day will take place from 4:30-6 p.m. Aug. 11 on the grass fields behind the Duffy Daugherty Football Building. The free event will feature autograph and photo sessions with the football team. Free schedule posters also will be available. Spartan Stadium will be open from 3-6 p.m. so that fans can see the natural grass, which was installed this summer.
