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Chicago — Football season is in the air. Yes, we still have over a month until the 2019 campaign kicks off, but the B1G season got its unofficial start with Media Days this week.
To quote Steve Spurrier, it’s the “start of talkin’ season.”
After spending two days in Chicago, there were plenty of takeaways from the two-day event. Rather than mention every single one, I’ve trimmed the list down to 10 of the most interesting things from B1G Media Days.
Honorable Mention
This is a humble brag, but my question to Kirk Ferentz about the transfer portal got one of the patented smirk and chuckles from the Iowa head coach. Mark that off the bucket list.
Tom Allen is as fiery as ever
If you’re not fired up for football season after listening to Tom Allen speak, you probably need to check your pulse. He’s a “football guy” through and through and loves Indiana football. The Hoosiers haven’t quite delivered on expectations yet, but he’s dedicated to changing the culture.
Tom Allen on recruits from Indiana: “If they want to go somewhere else, so be it. And then we’ll go beat your tail…I want them to regret that they didn’t come here.” pic.twitter.com/b10OCXop2i
— Saturday Tradition (@Tradition) July 18, 2019
Youth seems to be a concern for a lot of teams
James Franklin talked about it. Scott Frost talked about it. Jeff Brohm talked about it. P.J. Fleck talked about it. Other coaches addressed the concern, too. Yes, there’s a lot of talent in the B1G this season, but several teams will be dealing with inexperience on the field this fall. It’ll be interesting to see which teams are most affected by youth and which teams mature the quickest.
Everyone wants transparency and clarity on the NCAA transfer portal
This was something we already kind of new heading into B1G Media Days, but nearly every coach asked about the transfer portal used the word “transparency” or “clarity.” The issue most coaches are concerned with is what the rules are for being ruled immediately eligible and what constitutes the one-year absence rule. Most B1G coaches seems to understand that transferring is now a major part of the sport, it’s just a matter of leveling the playing field. (Can I get a Hallelujah!)
Illinois is playing for Bobby Roundtree
A severe swimming accident in Florida that involved Illinois’ best defensive player has brought the team closer together and playing for a cause. This fall isn’t just about improving as a program and trying to earn a bowl bid, it’s about playing every single down for Roundtree.
Maryland was clearly the best-dressed team
The swag award goes to Maryland, and it’s not close. There were some strong individual challengers to Anthony McFarland Jr., Tino Ellis and Antoine Brooks Jr., but as a team, the Terrapins were dressed for the red carpet. Just look at this photo from Nicole Auerbach from The Athletic. That silver bowtie from Brooks sets the Terps apart.
https://twitter.com/NicoleAuerbach/status/1151962539296743424?s=20
B1G coaches are interested in discussing the Playoff format
Expansion wasn’t necessarily the topic everyone wanted to talk about, but ensuring everyone is judged by the same data points is the bigger issue. The B1G’s nine-game league schedule seems to be an issue for Penn State’s James Franklin and Northwestern’s Pat Fitzgerald, especially with other conferences only playing eight. That, more than an eight-team field, is what coaches are wanting to discuss.
Jim Harbaugh is really confident
Maybe it’s just me, but Harbaugh seemed confident in Chicago. He spoke highly of his staff and was excited about the 2019 edition of Michigan. When asked if he agreed with the Wolverines being the favorite in the East, he responded with “Yeah, that’s where I’d pick us.” At the very least, Harbaugh isn’t running from expectations in his fifth year.
Expectations for Rondale Moore and Adrian Martinez grow by the day
Tell us something we don’t know, right? Not only do the two B1G West stars have pressure from passionate fanbases, their respective head coaches are depending on each guy pretty heavily. Frost said the Huskers will “probably go as far” as Martinez can carry them. Brohm said Moore “knows he has to make plays for us.” These two guys will be so much fun to watch this season.
Pat Fitzgerald hates talking to a boring crowd
Fitzgerald brings a lot of energy to the podium. He’s funny, he’s witty and he’s honest. He’s everything a reporter could ask for. The only thing he asks for in return is a little liveliness from the people in the room. On his way out after his 15 minutes at the podium, Fitzgerald said “You guys are like kryptonite. Holy Schnikes.” We’ll try to do better next time, Coach.
Casey O’Brien is one hell of an inspiration
A four-time cancer survivor, a college football player and just an incredible person. The Minnesota holder delivered an inspirational and emotional speech at the B1G Kickoff Luncheon. His story and his message could not have been any better.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB