Big Noise in the Big 10

Cold weather did nothing to stop these two players from getting hot this weekend of college football. Beau Benzschawel and Markus Bailey made an imprint on the draft community (and a few opposing players) with strong performances.

Wisconsin blocker Beau Benzschawel plowed through snow and Illini defenders all afternoon on Saturday. The senior guard paved the way for Wisconsin’s signature run game and was also stalwart in less protection. In a crowded offensive line class, Benzschawel will need more performances like this to standout. Especially since he’s got some NFL caliber contemporaries next to him on the Badger Line.

In the weekend’s biggest upset comes its most impressive performance. Redshirt sophomore linebacker Markus Bailey helped Purdue drag Ohio State behind the woodshed. Bailey, according to Pro Football Focus, played over ONE HUNDRED defensive snaps and was a disruptive force all night. Not only was he a force getting after the passer, he made plays in coverage including a pivotal pick six. It’s hard to find a better stat sheet than Bailey posted against the Buckeyes and more games like that will have the versatile defender thinking NFL early.