Xavier Nwankpa, Darryl Peterson, and Other Big Ten Defensive Breakouts

1. DB Xavier Nwankpa, Iowa

One of the highest-ranked recruits in the history of the program, Nwankpa showed some serious flashes as a freshman in 2022, capped by a highlight 52-yard pick-six in the Music City Bowl against Kentucky. As he steps into the starting safety role, he will have a ton of chances to shine on what should be another outstanding Hawkeyes defense.

Iowa defensive back Xavier Nwankpa (1) runs in a touchdown off of an interception as teammate Jack Campbell (31) smiles while blocking against Kentucky wide receiver Tayvion Robinson during the second quarter of the TransPerfect Music City Bowl, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn.

2. LB Darryl Peterson, Wisconsin

With Nick Herbig off to the pros, Peterson steps up to play a similar role in Luke Fickell’s new 3-3-5 defense in Madison. He could have an Ivan Pace Jr.-like season statistically.

Purdue running back Devin Mockobee (45) is tackled by Wisconsin cornerback Max Lofy (12) and Darryl Peterson (17) during the fourth quarter of their game at Camp Randall Stadium Saturday, October 22, 2022 in Madison, Wis.Wisconsin beat Purdue 35-24.

3. DB Kobe King, Penn State

While his twin brother Kalen gets most of the press as one of the top cornerbacks in the conference, Kobe is a heck of a player in his own right. He covers a ton of ground from his middle linebacker position and can do everything you want in an off-ball linebacker.