Joey Bosa climbs, B1G players follow on Mel Kiper's Big Board

For the first time in over two months, Joey Bosa is back to No. 1.

The Ohio State defensive end had spent the last two months looking up at Ole Miss defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche on Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board. With Bosa’s numbers not at the ridiculous pace they were at last year, Kiper did not have him as the No. 1 prospect.

Until Thursday, that is.

The Buckeye junior reclaimed the No. 1 spot after one of his most dominant games of the year against Illinois. He racked up a season-high seven tackles, three of which for loss, and helped hold Illinois without a touchdown. He also had half a sack to bring his season total to four.

And while Bosa hasn’t put together the sack totals some were expecting of him, he still graded out as Pro Football Focus’ best player in college football this year.

Kiper rated three B1G players behind Bosa in his latest top 25. He did, however, drop Michigan State quarterback Connor Cook out of the group.

Here’s what Kiper had to say about each B1G prospect:

1. Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes

Just dominating in every phase lately. He is an explosive pass-rusher who has power and awareness and is consistently disruptive against the run. Bosa has size — he’s 6-foot-6, 275 pounds, and could play bigger — and versatility that will fit any scheme, as well as the ability to go around blockers or right through them. Opponents move him around and he never looks out of place — just always in the backfield.

18. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State Buckeyes

Elliott has outstanding vision, durability, great power and breakaway speed in the open field but less-than-remarkable change-of-direction quickness. He shows a passion for blocking, as well as maybe the best hands of any back in this draft, both of which will endear him to evaluators. The big plays are there, but I think quickness in space will be something to watch.

22. Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State Spartans

He hasn’t been 100 percent all year but is still one of the more complete offensive tackle prospects in college football. At 6-foot-6 and 325 pounds, he moves well — he was a good basketball player in high school — and is most impressive in his consistency. He just doesn’t give up sacks and is showing more pop as a run-blocker. Conklin could be a great draft story if he stays healthy.

25. Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State Buckeyes

Doesn’t get a ton of looks in this offense, but he’s a big play waiting to happen. A nephew of former NFL star Keyshawn Johnson, he is 6-foot-3 and has length and a strong frame. He has the ability to win at the catch point, particularly on high throws, and cause damage after the catch. I think he’ll work out well, which will help because he doesn’t see enough of the ball.