The Big Ten conference has been on a roll, dominating college football with an impressive track record of national champions and NFL draft picks. With such success, it's no surprise that sports journalists are taking notice and predicting potential breakout players for the upcoming season. In this article, I'll be diving into CBS Sports' list of breakout candidates and sharing my own takes on these predictions.
Breaking Down the Breakout Candidates
Josh Burnham, EDGE, Indiana
CBS highlights Burnham's experience and potential as a pass-rusher, which I agree with. His physical attributes and improving sack numbers make him an intriguing prospect. I expect him to hit the five-sack benchmark and become a key contributor for the Hoosiers.
My Take: They're right about Burnham's potential, but I'd like to see him start more games and consistently produce before declaring him a breakout star.
Devon Jackson, LB, Oregon
Jackson is an athletic freak, and CBS predicts his numbers will rise with increased playing time. I agree, especially with the speed and range he brings to the field. Pairing him with a solid starter like Jerry Mixon could create a formidable duo.
Personal Perspective: What makes Jackson's story fascinating is his ability to finish plays. That instinct is a game-changer and could make him a standout player this season.
Luke Dehnicke, TE, Northwestern
CBS believes Dehnicke's DII production could translate to the Big Ten, and I'm cautiously optimistic. The key will be Northwestern's QB situation. If Aidan Chiles can rely on Dehnicke as a short-yardage target, he could become a valuable asset.
Analysis: DII-to-Big Ten transitions are always intriguing. Dehnicke's size and frame give him an advantage, but the competition will be fierce. I'd love to see how he adapts.
JJ Buchanan, WR, Michigan
CBS highlights Buchanan's frame and potential, but I have some reservations. With Andrew Marsh and the running game taking precedence, I'm not sure Buchanan will get enough targets to truly breakout. It's a crowded receiver room.
Verdict: They might be wrong. Buchanan's talent is undeniable, but the competition for snaps is intense.
Floyd Boucard, DL, USC
Similar to Buchanan, Boucard faces a crowded room with proven talent. While I agree that USC's defensive line is potent, I doubt Boucard will see enough snaps to qualify as a breakout candidate this season.
Reflection: What many people don't realize is that breakout players often need the right opportunity. Boucard might need to bide his time and wait for his chance.
Malachi Goodman, OT, Penn State
Goodman has the ideal frame and technical skills, and CBS predicts he could be the next great Penn State lineman. I'm on board with this pick, especially given the program's track record of developing offensive linemen.
Insight: Penn State's offensive line has been a strength, and Goodman could continue that legacy. I'm excited to see how he performs under the guidance of the Nittany Lions' coaching staff.
Devin Sanchez, CB, Ohio State
Sanchez is a technically skilled player with high expectations. CBS believes he'll shine as Ohio State replaces some key corners, and I agree. His performance in the final games of last season was impressive.
Commentary: Ohio State's secondary is always a force, and Sanchez has the potential to be a standout contributor. I'm intrigued to see if he can live up to the five-star billing.
Jahsear Whittington, DT, Nebraska
Whittington's size might be a concern, but CBS believes it could work in his favor for attacking the run. I agree; his speed and burst could be an asset.
Speculation: Undersized players often have to rely on their quickness. Whittington's ability to penetrate the trenches could make him a disruptive force for Nebraska's defense.
Quaid Carr, RB, Washington
CBS predicts Carr will be the favorite to land the starting role, and I agree. His vision and patience are valuable assets for a zone-based offense. With Jordan Washington sidelined, Carr has a golden opportunity.
Takeaway: Carr's slight frame might be a concern for some, but I think he'll prove his worth and become a reliable option for Washington's offense.
Jamal Rule, RB, Nebraska
Rule has the potential to be a power running back, and CBS believes he'll shine in Matt Rhule's physical offense. I agree, especially given Nebraska's recent success with Emmett Johnson.
Deeper Analysis: Power running backs are a dying breed in today's game. Rule's ability to excel in this role could make him a unique and valuable asset for Nebraska.
Cam Buffington, LB, Iowa
Buffington has the size and skills to be a great linebacker, and CBS predicts he'll extend Iowa's legacy of producing NFL-caliber players at this position. I'm on board with this pick.
Expert Opinion: Iowa's linebacker room has been a strength, and Buffington has the potential to continue that tradition. I expect him to make an impact and possibly even become a draft prospect.
Tre Bell, CB, Michigan State
CBS expects Bell to take his game to the next level, but I'm not so sure. He's already proven he can start, but the jump to becoming a true number one corner might be a stretch. I'd like to see more consistency.
Reflection: Bell's situation is an interesting one. He's already a reliable starter, but the breakout label might be a bit premature. I'd give him another year to truly shine.
Brian Rowe, WR, UCLA
Rowe's production might be tied to UCLA's QB situation, which is uncertain. CBS predicts he'll have a chance to showcase his athleticism, but I'd like to see more consistency in his yards per catch.
Commentary: Receiver-QB chemistry is crucial. Rowe's potential is there, but I'd wait until UCLA's QB situation stabilizes before declaring him a breakout candidate.
Chase Taylor, LB, Michigan
Taylor is an intriguing pick, especially with Michigan's linebacker room in flux. CBS believes he'll step up, and I agree. The precedent set by Cole Sullivan last season gives Taylor a great opportunity.
Personal Take: I like this pick a lot. Taylor could become a key contributor and help solidify Michigan's defense.
Davion Chandler, WR, Indiana
Chandler has the potential to be the next breakout receiver for Indiana, and CBS highlights his route-running skills. I agree; his ability to get open could be a game-changer.
Final Thoughts: Chandler's performance against Purdue last season was a glimpse of his potential. I'm excited to see him develop and become a consistent threat for the Hoosiers.
Conclusion
The Big Ten is a conference full of talent and potential, and these breakout candidates showcase the depth and skill across the league. While some predictions are more solid than others, it's clear that these players have the potential to make a significant impact on their respective teams. I, for one, am excited to see how these players develop and contribute to the exciting world of college football.
