Michigan's Jabril Peppers Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year
Michigan's Jabrill Peppers has been named the Big Ten's defensive player of the year as well as top linebacker and return specialist in a vote of coaches and media.
Peppers is third in the Big Ten with 16 tackles for loss, and he helped lead a unit that ranks second in the nation in total defense, scoring defense and red-zone defense. The Wolverines also lead the country in passing yards defense and third-down defense. Peppers leads the conference with a 25.8-yard punt return average.
Other award winners announced Tuesday: Tyquan Lewis, Ohio State, defensive lineman of the year; Jourdan Lewis, Michigan, defensive back of the year; Emmit Carpenter, Minnesota, kicker of the year; Cameron Johnston, Ohio State, punter of the year.
Paul Chryst of Wisconsin was the coaches' selection for coach of the year; Penn State's James Franklin was the media's choice.