Jon "JR" Rhoades 
Kurtis Rourke
Week 2 of the college football season was full of standout performances in the Big Ten conference. Players on both sides of the ball delivered thrilling moments that were crucial to their teams’ success, and even in defeat, some individual efforts couldn’t be overlooked. Here’s a look at eleven Big Ten football stars who made a lasting impact in Week 2.
– Kyle Monangai (Rutgers)
Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai put on a clinic in his team’s victory over Akron. Monangai’s 27 carries produced 208 rushing yards, averaging an impressive 7.7 yards per carry. He wasn’t just gaining yards—he found the end zone three times, with a game-breaking 62-yard run. Monangai’s performance was the cornerstone of Rutgers’ offense and paved the way for their dominant win.
– Nick Marsh (Michigan State)
Wide receiver Nick Marsh was instrumental in Michigan State’s win over Maryland, racking up 8 receptions for 194 yards. His 24.3 yards per catch included a crucial 77-yard touchdown that electrified the Spartans’ offense. Marsh’s big-play ability gave Michigan State the edge and showcased why he’s one of the top receiving threats in the conference.
– Xavier Scott (Illinois)
Illinois defensive back Xavier Scott delivered one of the most complete defensive performances of Week 2 in Illinois’ win over Kansas. Scott was all over the field with 8 tackles, 1 sack, and a tackle for loss. He also forced a fumble and made two key interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. His game-changing plays helped secure Illinois’ victory, making Scott a defensive powerhouse in Week 2.
– Kurtis Rourke (Indiana)
Quarterback Kurtis Rourke led Indiana to a historic 77-point offensive explosion. Rourke was nearly perfect, completing 15 of 17 passes for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns. His 88.24% completion rate and a Week 2-best QBR of 98.3 underscored his efficiency and precision. Rourke’s performance was not just dominant, it highlighted Indiana’s offensive firepower.
– Kaleb Johnson (Iowa)
Though Iowa came up short against Iowa State, running back Kaleb Johnson shined with 25 carries for 187 yards and 2 touchdowns. Johnson averaged 7.5 yards per carry, and his 54-yard touchdown run was one of the highlights of the game. His effort nearly carried Iowa to victory, as he gave the Hawkeyes offense a consistent spark.
– Miller Moss (USC)
Even though Miller Moss is not part of the Big Ten yet, USC’s quarterback turned heads in a blowout win against Utah State. Moss completed 21 of 30 passes for 229 yards and a touchdown, boasting a 70% completion rate and a QBR of 70.6. Moss controlled the game with his accuracy, continuing to build USC’s dominant offensive reputation as they prepare for the Big Ten in 2024.
– Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State)
Ohio State’s true freshman Jeremiah Smith showcased his potential in the win against Western Michigan. He made 5 catches for 119 yards, averaging 23.8 yards per catch, and scored a touchdown. His 70-yard reception was a highlight, demonstrating his speed and playmaking ability. Smith’s early contributions are proving he can be a go-to target for the Buckeyes this season.
– Tommi Hill (Nebraska)
Nebraska cornerback Tommi Hill made his mark on defense with a game-sealing interception that he returned for a touchdown. His pick-six helped Nebraska shut down Colorado’s offense and secure the win. Hill’s defensive play came at a pivotal moment, and his performance proved to be the exclamation point in Nebraska’s victory.
– Noah Whittington (Oregon)
Oregon running back Noah Whittington delivered one of the rarest and most exciting plays in football: a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. His special teams contribution was crucial in Oregon’s narrow victory over Boise State. Whittington’s electrifying return gave the Ducks the momentum they needed to pull out the win.
– Tez Johnson (Oregon)
Oregon’s Tez Johnson was another special teams hero, contributing a key punt return touchdown. Johnson’s explosive return gave Oregon a much-needed boost in their victory over Boise State, showing that special teams can make the difference in a tight contest.
– Tai Felton (Maryland)
In Maryland’s loss to Michigan State, wide receiver Tai Felton was a bright spot. Felton hauled in 11 receptions for 152 yards and a touchdown, with his longest catch going for 35 yards. His reliable hands and ability to gain yards after the catch kept Maryland’s offense moving, even in defeat.
Conclusion
Week 2 of Big Ten football was packed with impressive individual performances across offense, defense, and special teams. From Kyle Monangai’s unstoppable rushing attack to Xavier Scott’s defensive heroics, these 11 players stood out as the stars of the week, making their case as some of the most exciting talents to watch in the 2023 season.
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