Penn State running back Saquon Barkley has been an absolute force over the past month, and our Big Ten crew has taken notice. After yet another dominating performance, which included 211 yards of total offense and two touchdowns, Barkley has ascended all the way to the top spot for the Big Ten's offensive player of the year honor, supplanting Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett in a close vote.
Graham-George Offensive Player of the Year
1. Penn State RB Saquon Barkley (two first-place votes): We all knew Barkley was an incredible talent, but he's really turned on the jets over the last four games. During that time, he has rushed for 675 yards while averaging 8.3 yards per carry. In his first five games, he gained 380 yards rushing while averaging 4.4 yards per attempt. Barkley's 11 rushing touchdowns rank second in the Big Ten behind Minnesota's Rodney Smith.
