What's Happening?
The upcoming Super Bowl 60 between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots is set to feature several former Big Ten stars, including Kenneth Walker III and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Walker, a running back
for the Seahawks, had a standout season at Michigan State, scoring 19 touchdowns before joining the NFL. Smith-Njigba, a wide receiver, made a significant impact at Ohio State with 1,606 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. Both players have continued their success in the NFL, with Walker scoring a touchdown in the NFC Championship game.
Why It's Important?
The presence of Big Ten alumni in the Super Bowl highlights the conference's ability to develop top-tier talent capable of excelling at the highest levels of professional football. This not only enhances the reputation of the Big Ten but also serves as an inspiration for current and future college athletes. The performance of these players on such a prominent stage could influence recruitment and the perception of the Big Ten as a breeding ground for NFL talent.
What's Next?
As the Super Bowl approaches, all eyes will be on these former Big Ten stars to see how they perform on one of the biggest stages in sports. Their success could lead to increased recognition and opportunities, both for themselves and their alma maters. Additionally, their performance could impact the strategies and decisions of NFL teams in future drafts, particularly in terms of scouting and recruiting players from the Big Ten.
