Ten Big Ten Players Set to Break Out in 2024 -

As the 2024 college football season approaches, several players across the Big Ten are poised to make significant impacts. Here’s a rundown of ten standout athletes who are expected to break out this year:

Darius Taylor (RB, Minnesota)
Darius Taylor is a name you’ll want to remember. In his limited time last season, Taylor showcased explosive potential, rushing for 738 yards in just four games where he had 20 or more carries. Averaging 184.3 yards per game during these outings, he also scored five touchdowns and had 22 rushes of 10 yards or more. With his impressive performance cut short by injury, Taylor’s return could elevate Minnesota’s running game to new heights if he stays healthy throughout the season.

Jay Toia (DT, UCLA)
Jay Toia, a defensive tackle who transferred from USC to UCLA, is primed for a breakout year. Although he has already started 24 games in his career, his snap count was just under 400 last season, indicating room for growth. Toia’s athleticism and burst are significant assets, and while he only recorded one sack last year, improvements in tackling could lead to increased production in sacks and tackles for loss. This season should reveal his full potential.

Zachariah Branch (WR/PR/KR, USC)
Zachariah Branch is a dynamic playmaker who dazzled in his debut season with USC. As a highly effective punt returner and a promising wide receiver, Branch had 361 snaps last year, contributing 320 yards and two touchdowns. With increased responsibilities and a starting role this season, expect Branch’s speed and fearlessness to make him a key weapon for the Trojans, both in the passing game and special teams.

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Aidan Chiles (QB, Michigan State) Aidan Chiles is set to take the reins as Michigan State’s starting quarterback. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Chiles was a top prospect in the 2022 class and had a productive albeit brief stint last year. With 300-plus passing yards and 100-plus rushing yards in his limited action, Chiles is poised to build on that success. Under new head coach Jonathan Smith, he could become one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten if he can stay healthy and perform consistently.

Jeremiah Smith (WR, Ohio State)
Jeremiah Smith, the number one overall recruit in the 2024 class, is ready to make an immediate impact at Ohio State. With a reputation for being nearly unstoppable one-on-one, Smith is expected to be a primary target for the Buckeyes. His exceptional skills were evident even against top-tier defensive backs in practice, and his physicality and route running make him a likely standout in his freshman year.

Zane Durant (DT, Penn State)
Zane Durant has been a consistent performer for Penn State, logging 327 snaps last season and earning All-Big Ten honorable mention in his freshman year. With 22 tackles and three sacks last season, Durant’s combination of power and quickness suggests he’s on the verge of a breakout. Expect him to step up and become one of the premier defensive tackles in the conference this year.

Miller Moss (QB, USC)
Miller Moss has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his impressive bowl game performance where he threw six touchdowns. With a 90.7 PFF grade and an 80.6% completion rate against the blitz, Moss’s potential is undeniable. As he steps into a larger role this season, his poise and accuracy could make him a key player for USC’s offense and a standout quarterback in the Pac-12.

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Jordan James (RB, Oregon)
Jordan James is another running back ready for a breakout season. Despite not having a game with 20 or more carries last year, he managed over 700 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging 7.9 yards per carry. With a full season ahead and the opportunity to be Oregon’s feature back, James’s explosive playmaking ability could make him one of the top running backs in the nation.

Semaj Morgan (WR, Michigan)
Semaj Morgan made the most of his opportunities last season, with 39% of his snaps resulting in targets. He was highly effective, catching 12 of 22 passes for first downs and contributing significantly despite not being a starter. Morgan’s ability to make plays and his role in Michigan’s offense should expand, making him a key contributor and a player to watch closely.

Dylan Raiola (QB, Nebraska)
Dylan Raiola, the highest-ranked signee in Nebraska’s modern recruiting history, is expected to make a significant impact. Known for his leadership and work ethic, Raiola’s transition to college football should be aided by his experience moving between high schools. If he can harness his talent and adapt quickly, Raiola could become a transformative figure for Nebraska’s offense, potentially leading them to a more successful season.

These players are primed to make a significant impact in the Big Ten and beyond, and their performances will be closely watched as the season unfolds.