The 2010 Big Ten postseason player rankings continue with ...
No. 12: Chimdi Chekwa, CB, Ohio State, Sr., 6-0, 190
2010 numbers: Led Ohio State in interceptions (3), pass breakups (9) and passes defended (12); recorded 42 tackles, including four for loss and a sack; tied for second in the Big Ten and 41st nationally in passes defended; earned consensus first-team All-Big Ten honors.
Preseason rank: Unranked in preseason Top 25 players
Why he's here: The Big Ten lacked a ton of truly elite defensive backs in 2010, but Chekwa certainly fit the description following an outstanding senior season. His ability to make plays and take away a side of the field proved invaluable for a Buckeyes secondary that endured several season-ending injuries but still ranked 15th nationally in pass defense (179.3 ypg) and tied for 12th in takeaways (30). Chekwa's 2010 honors included: consensus first-team All-Big Ten, first-team FWAA All-American and semifinalist for both the Thorpe Award (nation's top defensive back) and the Bednarik Award (Defensive Player of the Year). He was named National Defensive Player of the Week following a two-interception performance against Miami. Often overshadowed by other top cornerbacks, Chekwa gets his due in these rankings and should go on to have a strong NFL career.
No. 12: Ohio State CB Chimdi Chekwa
No. 13: Ohio State QB Terrelle Pryor
No. 14: Wisconsin G John Moffitt
No. 15: Michigan C David Molk
No. 16: Ohio State DE Cameron Heyward:
No. 17: Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi
No. 18: Michigan State QB Kirk Cousins
No. 19: Indiana WR Tandon Doss
No. 21: Penn State G Stefen Wisniewski
No. 22: Iowa DE Adrian Clayborn
No. 23: Wisconsin RB James White
No. 24: Ohio State LT Mike Adams
No. 25: Indiana QB Ben Chappell
