Our postseason Big Ten player rankings march on, as we reach the top 15 and land on our second Michigan State defender. Remember, these rankings are all about last year's performance only. This next guy was the anchor for one of the nation's top defenses ...
No. 15: Max Bullough, LB, Michigan State, junior, 6-foot-3, 252 pounds
Preseason rank: No. 14
2012 numbers: Led Michigan State with 111 tackles, including 12.5 for loss and 2.5 sacks. Also forced a fumble and recorded an interception.
Why he's here: Bullough was a first-team All-Big Ten selection by the coaches and ranked in the top 10 in the league in both tackles and tackles for loss. But his sheer numbers, which were outstanding, don't tell the whole tale of Bullough's impact.
The third-generation Spartan serves as the nerve center behind Pat Narduzzi's entire defensive operation. He's responsible for making the calls and getting teammates lined up and ready to go before the snap. Obviously, he is awfully good at his job, since Michigan State finished the season ranked No. 4 in the FBS in total defense.
Bullough decided to come back for his senior season rather than skip to the NFL, where his intelligence, instincts and ideal size will be valued. He'll look to lead the Spartans in tackles for the third straight year in 2013, when he could wrap up a decorated and memorable career.
The countdown
No. 25: Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan
No. 24: Michael Carter, CB, Minnesota
No. 23: Kain Colter, QB, Northwestern
No. 22: Spencer Long, G, Nebraska
No. 21: Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State
No. 20: Ameer Abdullah, RB, Nebraska
No. 19: Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
No. 18: Mike Taylor, LB, Wisconsin
No. 17: Jake Ryan, LB, Michigan
No. 16: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
