Michigan State Is the True Front-Runner in the Big Ten

Conference play has had quite the interesting start thus far, and it is sure to gain a head of steam as the weeks go by.

While some teams—like Kentucky for example—face a rather minimal amount of competition, there are conferences around the nation which contain a variety of teams who could make a run for the conference crown.

One such conference is the Big Ten.

While the Big Ten is not always identified as a real “power” conference in terms of scoring ability and jaw-dropping athletes, the conference is recognized for one major quality: parity.

Each and every year, it seems as if a bevy of teams are competing for the title of Big Ten champion. Sure, there are teams (like Iowa) that struggle year in and year out to be associated with the powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Michigan State, and Purdue, but it doesn’t mean they don’t put up a fight.

And speaking of teams in the doldrums, Northwestern used to always be listed in such a category. The Wildcats have never ever been invited to participate in the “Big Dance” in March, but they have truly gotten off to an outstanding start this season. The streak of underachieving could potentially come to an end.

Most teams in the conference have played around five games thus far, with some teams already starting to steer away from the rest of the pack. Some teams, however, have also played below preseason expectations.

One team—the only one undefeated in conference play—is the Michigan State Spartans.

The Spartans defeated Iowa Wednesday night in a game which almost went the other way. Coach Tom Izzo said he was less than elated after the victory, saying his team isn’t where it needs to be. Even playmaker Draymond Green admitted he is getting a little concerned about his team’s lack of focus.

But even though Michigan State has not played to its full potential all year, they are still undefeated. While Purdue continues to struggle against conference foes and teams like Wisconsin and Ohio State have played good but not great, the Spartans have to be considered the best team in the Big Ten.

And when you consider that the Spartans still haven’t reached their full potential, it is hard to make an argument for another team’s case. The big conference battle will take place Feb. 9 when Purdue travels to East Lansing to play Sparty. If the Boilermakers win that game, one could assume that the conference could wind up with a different champion.

But until that happens, Michigan State is the top dog and every other team is just following in its footsteps.