Howard Griffith

Former Illinois running back Howard Griffith joins Dave Revsine and Gerry DiNardo in the Big Ten Network studios for Big Ten Football Saturday. During his playing days at the University of Illinois, Griffith set an NCAA record with eight rushing touchdowns in a single game. A retired NFL fullback, he played for two seasons each with the St. Louis Rams and the Carolina Panthers before joining the Denver Broncos in 1997. Griffith was part of two Super Bowl Championship teams and was a major contributor during the Broncos' Super Bowl XXXII win.

Q: What can fans expect from the Big Ten Football Saturday crew that includes you, Dave Revsine and Gerry DiNardo?

A: "We are going to have a fun show that goes in-depth. Big Ten fans are going to find out everything they've ever wanted to know about their teams. It will be the kind of knowledge that other networks don't have the time or ability to provide."

Q: What about the Big Ten Network appealed to you?

A: "For me, the appeal was the ground floor opportunity. It is a chance to grow along with the network that focuses on the Big Ten. Personally, it was an easy decision for me to join this team."

Q: As a player, which Big Ten stadium provided the most hostile, intimidating environment?

A: "Ohio State was the toughest. The fans are so knowledgeable and they're loud. It was a fun atmosphere. But it's hostile anywhere you play in the Big Ten because fans get into the game so much."

Q: Prediction time: Who is your pick for Big Ten Player of the Year and why?

A: "Mike Hart (Michigan running back). He has shown he can perform in this league for three straight years. This year will be no different. He is surrounded by a great quarterback in Chad Henne and a great receiver in Mario Manningham. Defenses will have to pick their poison and that should open up a lot of opportunities."

Q: Which Big Ten team that is currently flying under the radar will challenge for the Big Ten title this fall and why?

A: "I think you have to look at Purdue. They return 20 starters and they have such an explosive offense. Any time you have the ability to score that many points, you're going to challenge people. Their defense needs to step it up, but I think that will happen. I think Purdue has a great chance this year."