Big Ten’s 10 most frightening players to play against

Nov 16, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Maryland Terrapins defensive back William Likely (4) returns a punt for a touchdown as running back Kenneth Goins Jr. (30) looks on in the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Maryland’s William Likely doesn’t earn his way onto this list so much for his play in the defensive backfield as he does in the return game. A constant threat to go the distance when the ball is in his hands, Likely is third nationally in punt return average with 19.9 yards per return, and ranked first in the country with 398 yards, 87 yards more than second place.

Likely has two punt returns for touchdowns this season, and last year had both a punt and a kick return for touchdowns. His average kickoff return this year is a somewhat pedestrian 21.7 yards per return, but last year he averaged a staggering 31 yards which was good for fourth nationally.

He is always one broken tackle or missed special teams assignment away from taking one to the house, and for an underpowered Maryland offense, Likely’s kick and punt returns might just be their best attack.

Next: Joey Bosa