The Big Ten has no shortage of talented skill players. However, there are three combos of running backs and wide receivers that set themselves apart going into the 2022 season.
The Big Ten is going to be a tight race all year until the very end. With the likes of Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State all returning the main core of their offenses, it is starting to shape up to be a fun race to Indianapolis.
3. WR Ronnie Bell, RB Blake Corum, Michigan
Ronnie Bell and Blake Corum highlight a Michigan offense who is looking to replicate the same success they had last year and then some. Bell was set to be a huge factor in this offense a year ago before an injury against Western Michigan ended his season after just one game.
Blake Corum was a vital piece of this offense a year ago splitting time with Hassan Haskins as well as Donovan Edwards. While splitting time in the backfield, Corum ran for 952 yards on the ground to go along with 11 touchdowns. With Haskins departing for the NFL, this should be a breakout year for the Sophomore running back.
If this Michigan tandem stays healthy and gets consistent play from the quarterback spot, it will be no surprise if this team winds up in Indianapolis once again.
2. WR Jayden Reed, RB Jarek Broussard, Michigan State
Jayden Reed returning for his Senior season at Michigan State was a huge relief for Mel Tucker as they saw their Junior standout receiver Jalen Nailor depart for the NFL this past year.
Reed leads all returning Big Ten wide receivers in touchdowns with ten, and is set to have an eye opening Senior season for the Spartans. Reed burst on the scene last year with several clutch catches that helped seal the Spartans’ come back victory over rival Michigan.
Paired alongside Reed in the backfield will be transfer running back Jarek Broussard. Broussard was named Pac-12’s Offensive Player of the Year in 2020, and is looking to pick up right where Kenneth Walker III left off for the Spartans.
If the Spartans plan to make it to the Big Ten Championship for the first time since 2015, these two will be a big reason why.
1. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
It is no doubt that Ohio State is the preseason favorite to not only make the Big Ten Championship, but also to win it. Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and running back TreVeyon Henderson are a main reason why.
These two paired alongside potential first overall draft pick C.J. Stroud at quarterback, Ohio State is looking to return to their dominance atop the Big Ten.
Smith-Njigba led all receivers in the Big Ten last year with 1,606 receiving yards to go along with nine touchdowns. Smith-Njigba also had a record setting Rose Bowl last year eclipsing 347 receiving yards on 15 receptions as well as three touchdowns.
As just a true freshman, Henderson finished fourth in the Big Ten in rushing yards with 1,248 and racking up 15 touchdowns in the process.
This dynamic duo is going to be a nightmare matchup for all defenses in the Big Ten. Defensive Coordinators are going to be scrambling to find a scheme that even attempts to slow down these playmakers.
If these Buckeye stars stay healthy and C.J. Stroud improves on his play from last season, this team will not only be eyeing a Big Ten Championship, but also their first National Championship since 2014.