As chronicled Tuesday, the responsibilities of a Big Ten quarterback have changed immensely in the past decade. No longer can a signal-caller just stand in the pocket waiting for a receiver to break his route. The Big Ten’s best QBs are now tasked with rolling out, scrambling, diving for a first down, and simply, making plays happen.

1. Denard Robinson, Michigan

The undisputed top returning QB in the conference was also the Wolverines’ top leading rusher last season with 1,176 rushing yards. Robinson’s only weakness last season was his 15 interceptions. He spent the offseason learning the intricacies of offensive coordinator Al Borges’ spread offense and claimed the difference is “night and day” to Lindy’s Sports Magazine. Robinson became the only NCAA player to ever pass for more than 2,500 yards and rush for 1,500 yards in a single season in 2010 and he currently sits second all-time (behind Antwaan Randle El) in Big Ten history with 3,229 yards rushing as a quarterback. 

2. Braxton Miller, Ohio State

As a freshman, Miller guided the Buckeyes' offense to the 27th best rushing attack in the country, averaging 191.2 yards per game. The Big Ten freshman of the year also threw for 13 touchdowns to just four interceptions after becoming the starter in the fourth game of the season. Miller will have a season to develop Urban Meyer’s spread offense before the Buckeyes are post-season eligible. One goal, as Meyer has pledged, will be to balance the offense. The Buckeyes passing game ranked 115th in the country last year. 

3. James Vandenberg, Iowa

The senior threw for more than 3,000 yards last season and tied for second in the conference with 25 touchdown passes. The top pro-style QB returns armed with the most receiving assets of anyone under center. Keenan Davis and Kevonte Martin-Manley may be the be the best receiving duo and with Iowa’s perpetual question marks at running back, will be expected to improve on their 80 combined receptions from a year ago.

4. Taylor Martinez, Nebraska

Martinez, a junior, has started 25 of Nebraska’s last 27 games and won 17 of them. The dual-threat QB has rushed for 21 touchdowns, two less than he’s thrown in two years as the starter. Yet the knock on Martinez is his quirky throwing motion and the 15 interceptions in two years. Nebraska has one of the most balanced offenses in the Big Ten with halfback Rex Burkhead and emerging wideouts Kenny Bell and Quincy Enunwa. Not only is the offense balanced, but the Huskers have the flexibility and personnel to employ one of the most exciting offenses in the conference.

5. Nathan Scheelhaase, Illinois

The junior threw for more than 2,100 yards last season and 13 touchdowns while also rushing for 624 yards and six touchdowns. The hybrid style quarterback may have an adjustment period as he learns first-year coach Tim Beckman’s new offense.  Life without leading receiver A.J. Jenkins, who had a league-high 90 receptions, may not be pleasant as the next leading receiver, Spencer Harris, had 26 catches.    

For more Big Ten coverage, follow Mike Singer and Dave Carey @CBSSportsBigTen.