We’re at the midseason point of the 2022 season. Big Ten Network analysts Joshua Perry and Dave Wannstedt looked at the top defensive performers in the conference entering Week 8.

Perry picked the linebacker out of Michigan State Jacoby Windmon, who has picked up 13 tackles, 5.5 sacks 6 forced fumbles and an interception. Windmon has been a bright spot on a Michigan State team that has struggled so far this season.

“Some guys just naturally know how to get the football out,” Perry said. “It’s the most valuable thing you can do as a defender.”

Wannstedt also picked a linebacker in Michigan’s Mike Morris. Morris has been a problem on the line of scrimmage, picking up 12 tackles and 5 sacks to go along with a forced fumble.

“Defense is a team game,” Wannstedt said. “And Michigan’s team defense is playing outstanding and Mike has numbers to back it up.”

Michigan State and Michigan have bye weeks on Saturday before taking on each other on Oct. 29.