Big Ten Network Announces Spring Football Coverage

April 2, 2009

Spring Practice Photo Gallery (April 1) | Stanzi Spring Practice Video

CHICAGO, IL – The Big Ten Network will have the most comprehensive spring football coverage, with four separate studio shows beginning on April 11.

On three consecutive Saturdays in April, the Big Ten Network will present special hour-long editions of Big Ten Tonight to bring fans the best action, extended highlights, analysis and interviews with head coaches and top players from every Big Ten spring football game. The special episodes of Big Ten Tonight will air at 10 PM ET on April 11, 18 and 25.

“Each special episode of Big Ten Tonight will ensure that fans see the very best of that day’s action,” Big Ten Network President Mark Silverman said.

The network will air a 90-minute Big Ten Spring Football Wrap-Up at 8 PM ET on April 30. Studio host Dave Revsine will anchor the program from Chicago, while analysts Gerry DiNardo and Howard Griffith will review every Big Ten spring games, break down the action, discuss the most intriguing position battles and predict which players could have breakout seasons in 2009.

Live local television and streaming plans for the spring games vary by university. For school-specific information, check individual athletic department websites.

Big Ten football teams will conduct their spring games on April 11 (Michigan), April 18 (Indiana, Purdue, Wisconsin) or April 25 (Illinois, Michigan State, Minnesota, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State). Iowa will not hold its annual spring game due to construction at Kinnick Stadium.

Major storylines abound in the Big Ten this spring. Which younger players will become important supporting cast members for Ohio State sophomore quarterback Terrelle Pryor? Has Michigan freshman sensation Tate Forcier taken advantage of extra reps this spring to grab the starting quarterback position? Which of Michigan State’s four listed co-starters will carry the load in place of departed workhorse Javon Ringer? Can Penn State make another national title run in 2009? Which darkhorse Big Ten team is poised to make a run for a conference title? These issues, and many others, will be discussed this month on the Big Ten Network.

“The spring is such a critical time for every program as new schemes are implemented and new stars emerge. The Big Ten Network is the place to find the answers,” Griffith said.