CFB: Top 5 Defensive Players in the Big Ten
The Big Ten is full of absolute studs on the defensive end. There are numerous defensive players that have come from the Big Ten that have had hall of fame careers in the NFL. This year is no different and from defensive ends to safeties, there are multiple players that can make an impact on their respective teams. This list consists of the top five defensive players in the Big Ten for the 2021 season and it is based on individuals performance’s from stats, draft projection, and experience.
5. George Karlaftis, Purdue - Defensive End
George Karlaftis could be higher on this list, however, due to an injury in 2020 he only played in two games. As a freshman in 2019, Karlaftis was a stud. He had 54 total tackles, 17 for a loss along with 7.5 sacks. In both of his collegiate years, he has been named to the Second-team All-Big Ten team. He is an explosive athlete and is quick off the line. He uses his 6 foot 4 inch frame to be able to attack blockers.
4. Micah McFadden, Indiana - Linebacker
Coming in at number five on the list is Micah McFadden who is the anchor of the Indiana defensive. In 2021, McFadden will be a senior and he should continue being the playmaker he has been since a sophomore. In the 2020 season, only eight games were played due to COVID-19 and McFadden had 59 total tackles. 10.5 of those tackles were for a loss which included 6 sacks. McFadden was named a third-team All-American in 2020 showing his worth.
3. Taiwan Mullen, Indiana - Defensive Back
Taiwan Mullen is the definition of a lockdown corner and is one of the best corners not just in the conference but in the nation. In 2020 he had a breakout year where he was named as a First-team All-American team and First-team All-Big Ten. His stats show how good he is. Mullen had 37 tackles, three interceptions, and four pass deflections. He plays physically and uses his body to hit hard. Mullen is another talent that Indiana has that could help them have a successful year.
2. Haskell Garrett, Ohio State - Defensive Tackle
Haskell Garrett is not the only number one on my list but Pro Football Focus ranks him as the number one returning interior defensive lineman. In 2020 he was named First-team All-American by CBS Sports and he should reach similar stature this year. His stats don’t pop off the stat sheet but it is the pressure he creates that forces hurry-ups allowing for offensive breakdowns. The Buckeyes will need Garrett to be dominant in order for them to accomplish their hopes on a Big Ten and national title.
1. Brandon Joseph, Northwestern - Safety
Brandon Joseph was the Big Ten’s best safety last year and lockdowns many team’s passing attacks. Joseph gathered plenty of accolades which included All-America First, All-Big Ten First Team, and Big Ten Newcomer of the Year. Joseph filled up the stat sheet and he should only improve as he was a freshman last year. He had 46 total tackles and six interceptions in just eight games. Joseph will only get better and he is surrounded by great coaching in Patty Fitzgerald. Joseph will use his ball-tracking skills and great hand to impact the Wildcats in 2021.
References: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/
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