As spring practice kicks off around the Big Ten, we're taking a look at one potential breakout player for each team. We're looking for players who could take a major step during spring ball, so those who have started multiple seasons or earned All-Big Ten recognition in 2012 aren't eligible.
Purdue kicks off the series with ...
Dolapo Macarthy, WR, junior, 6-foot-5, 220 pounds
Purdue's mystery-filled quarterback competition will take center stage this spring, but the signal-callers also need some reliable targets in the passing game. The Boilers lose Antavian Edison to graduation, and O.J. Ross was indefinitely suspended last month. Macarthy likely would have moved into a bigger role regardless of Ross' status, but his responsibility now increases.
He finished fourth on the team with 28 receptions in 2012, racking up 252 receiving yards and a touchdown. Macarthy's size certainly jumps out, and he could be a bigger threat as an outside receiver in Purdue's new offense after averaging just 9 yards per catch as a sophomore. Macarthy came to Purdue as a walk-on quarterback after spending time at a prep school and a junior college. He moved from quarterback to receiver and seems to have found a home there.
Purdue kicks off spring ball March 18, and it will be interesting to see how coach Darrell Hazell and new offensive coordinator John Shoop use Macarthy alongside probable No. 1 receiver Gary Bush.
