Big Ten boasts some of nation’s top defenses in 2022

By MITCH STACY
AP Sports Writer

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Just four Big Ten teams are ranked in the AP Top 25, but six of the top 12 defenses in college football reside in the conference. Illinois has the top-ranked defensive unit in the nation, followed by No. 2 Ohio State. Michigan is ranked fifth in defense. Iowa was propped up by its tough defense before running into the speeding Buckeyes last week. The Hawkeyes are still sixth best in the nation. Rutgers and Minnesota have needed the help of their defenses, ranked seventh and 12th, respectively, to stay above .500.