Heading into Week 9 of the college football season, the Big Ten finds itself in good shape with three undefeated teams remaining and the resurgence of one of its traditional pillar programs.
The league has also witnessed no shortage of breakout players, many of which have come in the form of freshmen who are still getting their feet wet at the college level.
From ready running backs to dominant defenders and even an already polished passer, the Big Ten has seen several freshmen play key roles on their respective teams this season. Some have been true freshmen while others have been second-year players who redshirted a season ago as plenty of conference newcomers have made an impact in 2015.