The Big Ten Conference has been home to some of college football’s most exceptional talents since the turn of the millennium. From record-breaking quarterbacks to dominant defensive players, the conference has produced numerous stars who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here’s a look at some of the best players to grace Big Ten fields since 2000.
The Best Big Ten Conference Players Since 2000
Quarterbacks
Embed from Getty Images
Drew Brees (Purdue, 1997-2000) stands out as one of the most prolific passers in Big Ten history. Though his career began in the late ’90s, Brees’ senior season in 2000 was particularly impressive. He led the Boilermakers to the Rose Bowl and finished third in Heisman Trophy voting.
Troy Smith (Ohio State, 2003-2006) became the Big Ten’s first Heisman Trophy winner of the 21st century in 2006. Smith’s dual-threat capabilities made him a nightmare for defenses, and he led the Buckeyes to a national championship appearance.
Russell Wilson (Wisconsin, 2011) only played one season in the Big Ten after transferring from NC State, but his impact was immediate and profound. Wilson set the FBS record for passing efficiency in a season and led the Badgers to the Rose Bowl. He’s in the twilight of his career, but Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers are playing well.
Running Backs
Ron Dayne (Wisconsin, 1996-1999) capped off his illustrious career in 2000, breaking the NCAA Division I career rushing record. Though most of his career was in the ’90s, Dayne’s impact on the Big Ten extended into the new millennium.
Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin, 2011-2014) had a record-breaking 2014 season, rushing for 2,587 yards and finishing second in Heisman voting. His 408 yards in a single game against Nebraska set a new FBS record at the time.
Saquon Barkley (Penn State, 2015-2017) was a versatile threat who could impact the game as a runner, receiver, and returner. Barkley’s electrifying play style made him one of the most exciting players to watch in Big Ten history. And if you didn’t see his insane hurdle for the Philadelphia Eagles, you need to go find that and grab the popcorn.
Wide Receivers
Braylon Edwards (Michigan, 2001-2004) set numerous school records and won the Fred Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver in 2004. His combination of size, speed, and hands made him nearly unstoppable.
Allen Robinson (Penn State, 2011-2013) was a two-time Big Ten Conference Receiver of the Year, known for his acrobatic catches and ability to dominate games. His leaping catch against Michigan in 2013 remains one of the most iconic plays in recent Big Ten history.
Michael Jenkins (Ohio State, 2000-2003) was a key player in Ohio State’s 2002 national championship run. His reliable hands and clutch performances made him a favorite target for Craig Krenzel during that historic season.
Offensive Linemen
Joe Thomas (Wisconsin, 2003-2006) was a dominant force on the Badgers’ offensive line. Thomas won the Outland Trophy in 2006 as the nation’s top interior lineman and was a key part of Wisconsin’s powerful rushing attack.
Taylor Lewan (Michigan, 2009-2013) was a two-time Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year. His combination of size, athleticism, and nasty streak made him one of the most formidable tackles in conference history.
Brandon Scherff (Iowa, 2010-2014) won the Outland Trophy in 2014 and was known for his exceptional strength and technique. Scherff was a key part of Iowa’s traditionally strong offensive line play.
Defensive Linemen
Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue, 2007-2010) was a disruptive force on the edge, winning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2010. His relentless motor and ability to get to the quarterback made him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
J.J. Watt (Wisconsin, 2009-2010) only played two seasons in the Big Ten after transferring from Central Michigan, but his impact was significant. Watt’s versatility and athleticism foreshadowed his future NFL stardom.
Chase Young (Ohio State, 2017-2019) was nearly unblockable in his final season with the Buckeyes. Young set an Ohio State single-season record with 16.5 sacks in 2019 and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy.
Linebackers
James Laurinaitis (Ohio State, 2005-2008) was a three-time All-American and won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker in 2007. His instincts and leadership were crucial to Ohio State’s defensive dominance during his tenure.
Paul Posluszny (Penn State, 2003-2006) was a two-time consensus All-American and won both the Butkus Award and Bednarik Award. Posluszny’s sideline-to-sideline play epitomized Penn State’s “Linebacker U” tradition.
LaVar Arrington (Penn State, 1997-1999) played most of his career in the ’90s but his impact extended into 2000. Arrington’s athleticism and playmaking ability set a new standard for linebacker play in the Big Ten.
Defensive Backs
Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State, 2005-2008) was a Jim Thorpe Award winner as the nation’s top defensive back in 2008. Jenkins’ versatility allowed him to excel both as a cornerback and safety.
Jamar Fletcher (Wisconsin, 1998-2000) won the Jim Thorpe Award in 2000, capping off a career that saw him intercept 21 passes. Fletcher’s ball-hawking skills made him one of the most feared corners in Big Ten history.
Antoine Winfield Jr. (Minnesota, 2016-2019) emerged as one of the conference’s top playmakers, earning unanimous All-American honors in 2019. His instincts and versatility made him a standout in Minnesota’s secondary.
Special Teams
Mike Nugent (Ohio State, 2001-2004) was one of the most accurate kickers in Big Ten history. Nugent won the Lou Groza Award as the nation’s top kicker in 2004 and holds numerous Ohio State kicking records.
B.J. Sander (Ohio State, 2000-2003) won the Ray Guy Award as the nation’s top punter in 2003. Sander’s ability to flip field position made him a valuable weapon for the Buckeyes.
Ted Ginn Jr. (Ohio State, 2004-2006), while primarily known as a receiver, was also one of the most electrifying return specialists in Big Ten Conference history. His speed and elusiveness made him a constant threat to score on special teams.
Also Read:
The Best Players in the SEC Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the Big 12 Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the ACC Conference Since 2000
The Big Ten Conference has consistently produced top-tier talent across all positions since 2000. While this list highlights some of the standout performers, it’s by no means exhaustive. The conference’s rich tradition of excellence has seen numerous players make significant impacts both in college and at the professional level.
What sets many of these players apart is not just their individual achievements, but their contributions to team success. Many led their teams to conference championships, Rose Bowl appearances, and even national title games. Their performances often defined seasons and careers, creating lasting memories for fans across the Midwest and beyond.
As the Big Ten Conference continues to evolve, with new members joining and the landscape of college football changing, the conference remains a breeding ground for exceptional talent. The legacy left by these players has set a high bar for future generations, ensuring that the Big Ten will continue to be a showcase for some of college football’s best and brightest stars.
The impact of these players extends beyond their college careers. Many have gone on to successful NFL careers, further cementing the Big Ten’s reputation as a conference that produces pro-ready talent. Their success at the next level serves as inspiration for current and future Big Ten athletes, maintaining a cycle of excellence that has defined the conference for decades.
