As the new NCAA football season kicks off, fans of the Big Ten Conference are already on the lookout for the next breakout stars. With teams rebuilding, coaches experimenting with new schemes, and young talent eager to prove themselves, the Big Ten Network (BTN) will have no shortage of exciting new players to spotlight throughout the season. Here’s a closer look at some of the rising stars you’ll want to keep your eyes on this year in BTN’s coverage.
1. Drew Allar – Quarterback, Penn State
Perhaps no player in the Big Ten comes into this season with more hype than Drew Allar. The former five-star recruit backed up veteran quarterback Sean Clifford last season, but now it’s Allar’s time to shine. At 6-foot-5 and over 240 pounds, Allar possesses the prototypical size and arm strength of an NFL-caliber quarterback.
What sets him apart, however, is his poise in the pocket and deep football IQ. Head Coach James Franklin has already praised Allar’s maturity and leadership in the offseason. Look for Penn State to build its offensive strategy around Allar this year, a move that could propel the Nittany Lions to championship contention.
2. Donovan Edwards – Running Back, Michigan
With Hassan Haskins in the NFL and Blake Corum recovering from injury last season, Donovan Edwards stepped in and made an instant impact for the Wolverines. Showcasing impressive acceleration, vision, and pass-catching ability, Edwards proved he can be much more than just a backup.
Now entering the new season as one of Michigan’s starting backs, Edwards is poised to not only contribute but dominate. He’s especially dangerous in open space and will likely play a pivotal role in both the run and screen game under offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore.
3. Nick Herbig – Linebacker, Wisconsin
The Wisconsin defense thrives on physicality and discipline, and Nick Herbig embodies both. After putting up double-digit sacks last season, Herbig leads a Badger front seven that is set to once again become a defensive force in the conference. At just 6-foot-2, Herbig isn’t the most physically imposing linebacker, but he more than makes up for it with elite instincts, speed off the edge, and relentless pursuit.
Scouts believe Herbig could be one of the first linebackers taken in next year’s NFL Draft if he continues progressing. Expect a heavy dose of Herbig’s name on BTN’s weekly highlights.
4. Emeka Egbuka – Wide Receiver, Ohio State
Ohio State has long been a wide receiver factory, and Emeka Egbuka might be the next great Buckeye to follow in the footsteps of Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave. With Jaxon Smith-Njigba off to the NFL, Egbuka is now the go-to target for the dynamic Ohio State offense.
What makes Egbuka stand out is not just his ability to make big plays, but his consistency. Whether it’s making contested catches, crisp route running, or eluding defenders for yards after the catch, Egbuka can do it all. His chemistry with the Buckeyes’ new quarterback will be key to their offensive success.
5. Malik McClain – Wide Receiver, Penn State
Transferred from Florida State, Malik McClain brings explosive athleticism and much-needed depth to the Penn State receiving corps. At 6-foot-4, McClain is a physically gifted target capable of winning 50-50 balls and stretching the field vertically.
Penn State is expected to implement more passing under Drew Allar, and McClain could quickly emerge as a favorite target. Big plays and highlight-reel catches could make him a regular presence in BTN’s weekly spotlight features.
6. Braelon Allen – Running Back, Wisconsin
Braelon Allen made headlines two seasons ago when he broke out as a 17-year-old freshman. Now older and even more lethal, Allen is a mainstay in Wisconsin’s power-run system. His combination of strength, balance, and agility make him nearly impossible to bring down in one-on-one situations.
This season, Allen hopes to improve his footwork and catching ability, giving NFL scouts even more reason to keep him on their radar. As one of the nation’s top backs, Allen will undoubtedly be a feature in BTN’s highlight reels.
7. Cade Stover – Tight End, Ohio State
In an offense as explosive as Ohio State’s, it’s easy for tight ends to get overlooked. But Cade Stover has carved out a niche for himself as a reliable red zone target and lethal blocker. His blend of physicality and dependable hands makes him a safety blanket for the quarterback—and a nightmare for opposing linebackers.
Expect Stover to see more targets this year, particularly with defenses focusing on the Buckeyes’ elite wide receivers. If he continues to improve, he could be one of the top tight ends in the nation by season’s end.
8. Cooper DeJean – Cornerback, Iowa
Iowa has a proud tradition of developing defensive backs, and Cooper DeJean appears to be the next great prospect. A versatile athlete who played multiple positions in high school, DeJean showed flashes of brilliance in Iowa’s secondary last season. His instincts, closing speed, and ball-hawking skills make him a cornerstone of the Hawkeyes’ defense.
With a full season to establish himself as a lockdown corner, DeJean could solidify his spot as one of the top corners in the Big Ten. Expect BTN to feature plenty of clips of DeJean disrupting opponents’ passing games this fall.
9. Kalel Mullings – Defensive Back, Michigan
One of the more intriguing players to watch is Kalel Mullings. Originally recruited as a linebacker, he transitioned into a defensive back role, showing rare versatility and athleticism. While he’s still learning the nuances of defending against elite college receivers, his physicality and football IQ make him a strong candidate to be a breakout contributor on Michigan’s defense.
As Mullings becomes more comfortable in his new position, he’s expected to take on a much larger role this season. His ability to cover, tackle, and track the ball could make him a standout in the Wolverines’ secondary.
Looking Ahead
With talent pooled across every roster, the Big Ten promises a high-octane season packed with thrilling matchups, impactful plays, and the emergence of future stars. BTN’s Football Player Spotlights give fans a closer look into the journeys, triumphs, and growing pains of these young athletes as they push toward greatness.
So whether you’re tuning in on Saturday afternoons or following along on digital platforms throughout the week, keep these names in mind—they just might be the future faces of football greatness.
Other Rising Stars Worth Watching:
- Luke Lachey – Tight End, Iowa
- Cam Miller – Cornerback, Nebraska
- Kyle Monangai – Running Back, Rutgers
- Beau Brade – Safety, Maryland
As the action unfolds, BTN will continue to deliver in-depth coverage and exclusive interviews, capturing the stories behind the players who are shaping the future of the game. This year’s lineup of rising stars promises not only to captivate fans but also to redefine what it means to be elite in college football. Buckle up—this is going to be a season to remember.