Akeem Spence

Tackle Akeem Spence, analyzing the defensive problems, said Monday: "I'm not pointing fingers, but we've had some mistakes in the secondary. We didn't handle the sudden changes (from turnovers). Now, this is about being a man about it and getting ready for next Saturday. I'm happy we're getting into the Big Ten with a lot of play-action and power stuff. I'm tired of running from side to side.

"If their guys are upset (about Nowicki), then they're upset. They still have to line up and play football. We're the same guys we were last season, and we just have to prove it when the lights come on Saturday. We're the same guys."

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