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Cleveland.com reveals selections for B1G Offensive, Defensive Player of the Year honors
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With B1G Media Days just a day away, Cleveland.com revealed the media picks for B1G division champions, conference title winner and preseason Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year honors.
It comes as no surprise that Ohio State is the favorite to win the B1G again in 2021. But which players are picked as preseason favorites to receive the most prestigious awards the conference hands out?
Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave was selected as the preseason Offensive Player of the Year following his decision to return to Columbus for another year. It was a surprise decision, as he was expected to be a sure selection in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Last year, Olave totaled 729 yards and 7 touchdowns on 50 receptions for the Buckeyes. In his three seasons, he’s piled up 1,775 yards and 22 touchdowns on 111 catches.
Northwestern safety Brandon Joseph is projected to be the B1G Defensive Player of the Year after a breakout freshman campaign. Joseph hauled in a B1G-best 6 interceptions in 2020, and was also credited with 52 tackles and 8 pass break-ups.
Ohio State and Northwestern met in the B1G Championship Game last year.
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