Anthony Smith just made Big Ten history — and he did it by the slimmest margin possible

Anthony Smith has made history in the Big Ten by edging out the competition to become the preseason Defensive Player of the Year, winning by the narrowest of margins. His return to lead Minnesota's defense signals a significant boost for the team's defensive strategy. This recognition is crucial as it sets a high bar for the rest of the conference and underscores Smith's pivotal role in shaping the team's defensive prowess. His achievement highlights not only his individual skill but also his potential to influence the season's outcomes.