(AP) - Quietly and effectively, Ohio State's Marcus Freeman has established himself as one of the best linebackers around.

He was a second-team all-conference choice by the Big Ten coaches last year and is expected to be even better heading into his fifth and final season.

Freeman says he doesn't mind staying in the background while All-American James Laurinaitis gets all the attention.

He's also more than happy to stay in the shadows while Laurinaitis and his Ohio State backup at linebacker, Austin Spitler, trade pranks.

The third starting linebacker, Ross Homan, along with Spitler, might be stars at another Top 25 program. But at Ohio State, they're just considered bit players to Laurinaitis.

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