10. LB Dedrick Young II (Nebraska) vs. Purdue, 89.3 grade
Nebraska had a number of defensive standouts this year, but Dedrick Young was decidedly average for much of the season. His overall grade of 70.3 and run-defense grade of 68.8 are not those of an all-Big Ten performer, but at least for one October afternoon, he was just that. Against Purdue, Young led the Cornhuskers with 10 solo tackles and seven stops, and also contributed a QB hurry. He excelled in coverage as well, as he gave up just three receptions on five targets (just 21 yards against), and also broke up a pass. His coverage play against the Boilermakers is particularly notable, as opposing QBs were seven-for-seven when throwing into his coverage the remainder of the season.
