The Big Ten Conference released a list of 11 players to watch in the upcoming football season Thursday. A select media panel voted for five players in the East and West division with the West garnering six players because of a tie.
Maryland didn't have a single player on the list despite having two players named to the preseason All-Big Ten first team. Defensive back Will Likely and kicker Brad Craddock both earned first-team recognition.
In the East division, in which the Terps play, Ohio State and Michigan State each had two players selected with Penn State having the other. Quarterback Connor Cook (Spartans), defensive end Shilique Calhoun (Spartans), defensive tackle Joey Bosa (Buckeyes), running back Ezekiel Elliott (Buckeyes) and defensive tackle Anthony Zettel (Nittany Lions) were the five players from the East schools.
Likely figured to have the best shot to make the list from Maryland after he led the Big Ten in interceptions with six, two of which he returned for touchdowns as a sophomore. He was explosive on special teams, too, leading the conference in kick return average (31.0) and ranking third in punt return average (11.1). He also scored two touchdowns on special teams.
The Terps open their season in College Park on Sept. 5 against Richmond. Maryland's first conference game is Oct. 3 when new Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh brings the Wolverines to Byrd Stadium for a game under the lights.