On Thursday, the Big Ten released a list of 10 players (five from each division) to watch during the 2012 season. Here are the honorees:

LEADERS DIVISION

PLAYER SCHOOL COMMENT

Montee Ball Wisconsin The leading returning Heisman Trophy vote-getter, he ranks second on Badgers' touchdown chart with 61

Chris Borland Wisconsin Former Big Ten Freshman of the Year and All-American gets plenty of help from linebacker running mate Mike Taylor

Braxton Miller Ohio State The success of Urban Meyer's first team depends heavily on sophomore quarterback, who had a 13:4 touchdown-to-interception ratio in 2011

Kawann Short Purdue Dominating defensive lineman considered turning pro after recording 6.5 sacks in 2011 Rival quarterbacks were rooting for him to go

John Simon Ohio State Defensive end considered the best player on a loaded line. He had seven sacks in 2011

LEGENDS DIVISION

Johnny Adams Michigan State Leader of a strong Spartans secondary that welcomes back three starters, cornerback earned All-Big Ten honors in 2011

Rex Burkhead Nebraska Smart Texan gained 1,357 yards and scored 15 touchdowns in 2011. He could finish No. 2 on Nebraska's career rushing list

William Gholston Michigan State Junior defensive end, considered the best defender in the league, won't likely be back for the 2013 season

Taylor Lewan Michigan Top offensive lineman in the Big Ten will try to help Denard Robinson make a giant push for the Heisman Trophy

Denard Robinson Michigan Speedy quarterback has some help in the backfield, so look for his passing to improve as Michigan makes a run at the national title