As it currently stands, the Big Ten has six teams ranked in the top 20 of the ESPN RecruitingNation class rankings for 2018. The conference has been on the rise in recruiting over the past few seasons, and the proof is in the numbers.
The success is the result of a few different factors, but a key one is the infusion of youth in the coaching ranks. Some of the top recruiters in the conference are under 40 years old and have made their presence known on the recruiting trail.
Here is a look at some of the top Big Ten assistant coach recruiters under 40 who have helped get their teams in the top 20 of the 2018 class rankings:
Ohio State: Zach Smith
2018 class rank: No.