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Ducks, Sun Devils facing big tests in Pac-10

Dennis Dixon will get a chance to improve his draft stock when he faces a USC defense that is loaded with superstars. Also in the Pac-10, Arizona State will get its first true test of the season against California.

Originally Published: October 25, 2007

No. 1 Ohio State at No. 24 Penn State
Both defenses are led by the best linebackers in their class -- Penn State's Dan Connor is No. 1 in the senior class and Ohio State's James Laurinaitis is the top junior. But there is an emerging star for the Nittany Lions at defensive end: sophomore Maurice Evans. Lining up on the right end, Evans will go head-to-head with Buckeyes junior left tackle Alex Boone (6-7½, 325 pounds). He's an aggressive run-blocker who might be better-suited at right tackle in the NFL.

Penn State's Justin King is the fourth-rated cornerback in the junior class, and last week Indiana's James Hardy (6-6, 222) had a field day. King could face another big receiver in Brian Robiskie (6-3, 195). He has outstanding hands and is averaging almost 20 yards a reception. Robiskie and Brian Hartline could pose problems for Penn State's secondary.

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