A small Big Ten contingent reduced by several injuries had a quiet week of practice at the Senior Bowl, but several players shined brightly on game day.
Purdue defensive tackle Kawann Short was named Most Outstanding Player for the North squad, which fell 21-16 to the South in Mobile, Ala. Short recorded three tackles, including a tackle for loss and another stop for no gain. He helped limit the North team to 105 rush yards and just seven points in the final three and a half quarters.
Short drew mixed reviews during the practice week, as observers noted his tremendous ability but also pointed out that he would take plays off. The comparisons between Short and Michigan State defensive end Jerel Worthy from last year are undeniable. Worthy also had first-round talent but also a reputation of taking some plays off. Ultimately, Worthy was a second-round pick of the Green Bay Packers last April. Whether Short works his way into the first round remains to be seen, but he certainly helped his cause Saturday.
Another Big Ten defensive tackle, Penn State's Jordan Hill, delivered a good performance in the game, recording three tackles, including 1.5 for loss and half a sack.
Other Big Ten notables:
Illinois DE Michael Buchanan recorded four tackles and blocked a 52-yard field goal attempt by Florida State standout Dustin Hopkins in the second quarter.
Michigan's Denard Robinson played wide receiver and recorded two receptions for 21 yards and one rush for minus-3 yards. Robinson's transition from quarterback to receiver is off to a rocky start
, but he set the baseline this week and can make strides before the draft.Wisconsin tackle Ricky Wagner and Illinois guard Hugh Thornton both started along the offensive line for the North team, which rushed for only 45 yards but found a rhythm in the second half.
