A look at football players in the Big Ten this spring who are poised to have breakout seasons this fall:
Illinois
TE Cole Rusk was expected to be a starter last year, but a major knee injury ended his season before it began. He could make an immediate impact at a position that needs to be more productive. The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder was one of the top tight ends in the FCS at Murray State in 2023, catching 39 balls for 507 yards and six touchdowns.
Indiana
WR Omar Cooper Jr. was mostly a backup to Myles Price last season and averaged 21.