Bleacher Report - Articles by Carl Stine

Wisconsin Badgers at Northwestern WIldcats: A Badger's Take

Carl Stine — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:41:48 -0500

The last time Wisconsin beat Northwestern in Evanston, it was 1999.

They will try to do it for the first time this decade this coming Saturday.

After an abysmal 7-6 season in 2008, the Wisconsin Badgers have stormed back behind the rushing of John Clay and a revamped, better than expected defense.

This Saturday will decide the Big Ten conference Champion.

With a victory against the Northwestern Wildcats (likely), and an Ohio State loss to Michigan (not likely), the Badgers would be in a three way tie for first place in the conference.

Sophomore tailback John Clay has been the catalyst for the Badgers' resurgence. Clay has averaged 5.2 yards per carry while amassing 1124 yards and reaching the end zone 12 times.

Another point of interest for the Badgers this year is the balanced offense. Most years, the Badgers have not been much of a threat to pass the ball, but this season, behind quarterback Scott Tolzien, who ranks 34th nationally in passing efficiency, the Badgers have scored early, and often.

Wisconsin is second in the conference, scoring 31.1 points per game, behind only Michigan, at 31.3.

Northwestern has improved since early season games against Syracuse and Minnesota, with the offense moving the ball effectively, and he defense starting to clamp down in the last couple of weeks.

Also, Northwestern has found a way to win seven games this year, and is bowl eligible for the second year in a row.

Wisconsin will win if...

Mistakes are limited - The Badgers have been turnover and penalty prone at times this season, and Northwestern will look to capitalize on any mistakes.
Toon is involved - Receiver Nick Toon is emerging as a star. His second touchdown catch of the game against Michigan last week was an acrobatic, physical play. Should Tolzien find him, he will make plays.
Watt lights up -JJ Watt has been somewhat ignored this season, stuck in the long shadow cast by fellow defensive end, O'Brien Schofield. Watt will have a chance to make plays, as Schofield will be double teamed, and the blocking schemes will slant his way. Watt already has 10.5 TFLs on the year.

Northwestern will win if -

They limit big plays -Wisconsin has big play capability with tight end Garrett Graham and Lance Kendricks, Clay, Nick Toon and Isaac Anderson. And that is only on offense. Defensive end O'Brien Schofield is having a monster year, and Freshman linebacker Chris Borland has been a game changer at times for the Badgers. Northwestern must not let them hit the home run.
They contain Clay -John Clay is a monster, and will punish defenses. He will not be stopped, but if Northwestern can get an early lead and limit his carries, they can contain the damage he will do.

Wootton gets off - Defensive end Corey Wootton has registered at least one sack in each of his last four games, and is very quick into the backfield.

The Badgers have played very solid football recently, but so have the Wildcats. The Badgers will come out trying to establish the run, and will need to score early and keep Clay involved to win.

Northwestern will try to move the ball with veteran quarterback Mike Kafka, and hopes to improve on their bowl prospects with a victory over a BCS top 20 team.

Expect another shootout, with few turnovers, and some hard hitting football.

Prediction - Badgers 31 Wildcats 30

Big Ten Football '09: Week 12 Preview

Carl Stine — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:01:57 -0500

The Big Ten can make the case for being the most exciting conference in college football.

Every team in the conference still had the potential to be bowl eligible going into last week's games.

Ohio State and Iowa lived up to it's billing as "the Clash of the Titans," being decided on a field goal in overtime. As long as Ohio State wins out, they've clinched a trip to the Rose Bowl.

Penn State and Wisconsin continued to roll, and Indiana, Purdue and Michigan were knocked from bowl contention.

This week several teams are jockeying for bowl position, rather than eligibility.

Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-5), (3-4) @ No. 13 Iowa Hawkeyes (9-2), (5-2) 12:00 ESPN

The Gophers should not even be bowl eligible. I don't think a win over a team named the Jackrabbits should qualify, but I don't have a say in the matter.

Iowa will have a hard time getting up for this game, and it will be closer than expected.

Gophers 20, Hawkeyes 24

No. 10 Ohio State Buckeyes (9-2), (6-1) @ Michigan Wolverines (5-6), (1-6) 12:00 ABC

While Ohio State was winning last week, Michigan was getting pasted by the Wisconsin Badgers, 45-24.

Ohio State's announcers summed it all up last week, when after Devin Barclay kicked the game-winning field goal in overtime, the first thing they said was "What a good start to Michigan Week."

Look out Wolverines.

Buckeyes 41, Wolverines 17

No. 14 Penn State Nittany Lions (9-2), (5-2) @ Michigan State Spartans (6-5), (4-3) 3:30 ABC

Michigan State will try to boost their bowl status by upsetting JoePa's squad, but it won't happen.

Penn State running back Evan Royster will run all over the MSU defense, and the PSU defense will force at least three turnovers.

Sparty and the Lion will be involved in a knock-down-drag-out that will include at least three cheerleaders and two members of the PSU coaching staff...

PSU 35, MSU 21

Purdue Boilermakers (4-7), (3-4) @ Indiana Hoosiers (4-7), (1-6) 3:30 Big Ten Network (BTN)

This game is basically an exercise in futility. Neither one of these teams is going to a bowl game, and both of them have been just giving games to their opponents all season long.

If there is a way for both of them to lose, they will figure it out.

Boilers 34, Hoosiers 33

No. 16 Wisconsin Badgers (8-2), (5-2) @ Northwestern Wildcats (7-4), (4-3) 3:30 BTN

This may be the most interesting game of the week. Northwestern has won two straight games in which they were the underdog, and Wisconsin plays very miserable football in Evanston.

The Badgers have only suffered losses to OSU and Iowa, and are looking to finish with a 10 win season, and an outside shot at a BCS bowl, while Northwestern is looking to make it's bowl-stock rise with a victory over a solid Wisconsin team.

The Wildcats have veteran quarterback Mike Kafka who should pose some problems for the Badgers secondary, but will most likely make a costly turnover or two.

If Kafka and the 'Cats can avoid those mistakes, there will be an upset brewing on Saturday afternoon in Evanston.

Badgers 31, Wildcats 30

Bye Week: Illinois Fighting Illini

The Wisconsin Badgers John Clay has established himself as the front runner for offensive POY honors in the Big Ten, and the All-Conference team and other Conference awards will be announced in the upcoming week.

Wisconsin Badgers-Michigan Wolverines: A Badger's Take

Carl Stine — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:10:35 -0500

Michigan Wolverines football. The very thought causes several different reactions among Big Ten fans.

"I would rather kick myself in the face than see the Wolverines win a game." -Josh, L.A. Ohio State fan.

"...they are without a doubt the most arrogant fans in the college football universe." -Antwon, L.A. Michigan State fan.

"Just thinking about last year's game against Michigan gives me a migraine." -David, Pittsburgh. Wisconsin fan.

The Badgers had a 19-point lead going into halftime of last season's game against the Wolverines and are still smarting from the memory of the 27-25 loss that sent the Badgers spiraling into a-five game losing streak.

The Badgers were ranked ninth in the nation before that loss and hoping for a strong start to the Big Ten season.

That loss is just the latest in a series that Michigan has dominated, 49-12-1. The Wolverines have posted a 19-5-1 record at Camp Randall.

However, the Badgers have won their last two home meetings against Michigan. In both, the Wolverines were ranked and upset by the Badgers.

Wisconsin will win if...

-John Clay rushes for over 100 yards. The Badgers have always been a run-oriented offense. That has held true this season. John Clay leads the conference in rushing yards this season. He is backed up by freshman Montee Ball, who is coming off of a 115-yard, two-touchdown performance against Indiana last week.

The Badgers are 5-0 when Clay reaches the century mark and 2-2 when he does not.

-The defense limits big plays. The Badgers allowed Tandon Doss and Ben Chappell to make things look easy on some huge plays last week.

Allowing big plays, particularly through the air, has been the Achilles heel for this defense. Should they let Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier tear apart the secondary, the Wolverines will walk away with a big win.

-They contain Michigan's run game . Michigan leads the conference in rushing yards per game and has arguably the best running back duo in the conference. Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor have noses for the end zone and Michigan finds ways to get them the ball, whether on screens or hand-offs up the middle.

Wisconsin is coming off of it's second straight game of holding an opponent below 70 yards rushing. The Badgers have allowed the fewest yards rushing per game during conference play. Something's gotta give this Saturday.

-Scott Tolzien is efficient. Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien started off the season on a tear. In his first five games, Tolzien threw for nine touchdowns and only three interceptions while completing 82 of 125 attempts for 1,043 yards.

The last four games have been a marked contrast. Tolzien was 59-of-103 with only one touchdown and five interceptions.

If Tolzien can complete about 60 percent of his passes without throwing any interceptions, the Badgers will win the game.

Michigan will win if...

-Tate Forcier makes some big plays. Wisconsin has proved to be susceptible in the defensive secondary, most recently against Indiana. The Badgers allowed 323 yards through the air to the Hoosiers last week and almost 13 yards per throw.

Michigan will need to get Forcier involved early to loosen up the game for his running backs.

-The defense contains Clay and Ball. As previously stated, the Badgers excel when Clay has a big day. He will be coming off of a concussion suffered against Indiana, but freshman Montee Ball proved to be an able substitute. The key to Michigan's success in this game will be their ability to stop the run.

-They force mistakes. Wisconsin averages over 45 penalty yards per game and has given away 17 turnovers this season. If the Badgers are allowed to play their game of ball control and pounding the rock, Michigan will have a hard time even getting the ball to score points. They must find a way to take it away.

-They contain O'Brien Schofield . Defensive end O'Brien Schofield has been a monster for Wisconsin this season, totaling 18.5 tackles for loss this season, tied for second-best in the nation. He had a sack and a tackle for loss last week against Indiana despite being double-teamed on the line for much of the game.

Final Prediction - Rich Rod and his boys will leave Mad-Town searching for more answers, as an opportunistic Badger defense forces four turnovers and rushes for over 300 yards against a struggling Michigan team.

Michigan 14, Wisconsin 34

Big Ten Football '09: Week Eleven Preview

Carl Stine — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:46:57 -0500

Last week proved to be a season changing week in the Big Ten Conference. Ohio State made a statement, and after flirting with disaster all season long, Iowa finally fell.

Wisconsin continued to quietly grind out wins, and Michigan proved, yet again, why they may to finish last in the conference. Yes Michigan, Northwestern was bowl-eligible before you.

Another titanic battle is in the offing this week, as Iowa and Ohio State duke it out for conference supremacy. If Iowa loses, we will be looking at the possibility of four teams knotted up atop the conference standings with two losses apiece at the end of the season.

Michigan, Michigan State, and Minnesota will look to become bowl eligible, while Purdue will try to keep its bowl hopes alive.

South Dakota State Jackrabbits (7-2), (6-1) @ Minnesota Golden Gophers (5-5), (3-4); 12:00 p.m.—Big Ten Network (BTN)

Minnesota and quarterback Adam Weber will still be without sensational wideout Eric Decker, but the Gophers should have no problems handling the Jackrabbits.

The Gophers have a more balanced offense now that Decker is gone, and will be stinging comin' off of a loss to Illinois...this one will get ugly...fast.

'Rabbits 3, Gophers 35

Indiana Hoosiers (4-6), (1-5) @ No. 18 Penn State Nittany Lions (8-2), (4-2); 12:00 p.m.—BTN

Indiana has taken a nosedive following a surprisingly good start to the season.

Penn State is hoping for Iowa and/or OSU to trip up twice so they can sneak into a BCS bowl berth.

Penn State quarterback Daryll Clark and company will be out for blood this week, and Indiana will fold like an opossum that thinks its in danger.

Happy Valley will be rockin' for this one.

Hoosiers 14, Nittany Lions 31

Michigan Wolverines (5-5), (1-5) @ No. 20 Wisconsin Badgers (7-2), (4-2); 12:00 p.m.—BTN

Wisconsin is quietly turning in a very productive season. With battles against Michigan, Northwestern, and Hawaii left on the schedule, the Badgers are staring at the possibility of a 10-win season.

Michigan is another story. With games remaining against the Badgers and Ohio State, Michigan is staring at a five-win season, barring a colossal turn of events.

Camp Randall Stadium is not the best place to play for opposing teams, and Michigan just lost to Purdue, a team Wisconsin beat 37-0.

The Badgers will have sophomore running back sensation John Clay, and go into this game toting the best rush defense in Big Ten conference play.

Michigan has gained the most rushing yards per game this season so something has to give...

Wolverines 17, Badgers 35

Michigan State Spartans (5-5), (3-3) @ Purdue Boilermakers (4-6), (3-3); 12:00 p.m.—ESPN/ESPN2

With games remaining against Michigan State and Indiana, Purdue could become bowl eligible if they win.

Michigan State has to win this one because their bowl hopes hinge on a victory in this game, or next week against Penn State.

Purdue rolled last week against Michigan, and expect that offense to light up the MSU defense this week.

Sparty 24, Boilers 28

Northwestern Wildcats (6-4), (3-3) @ Illinois Fighting Illini (3-6), (2-5); 12:00 p.m.—ESPN/ESPN2

In the first battle for the Land of Lincoln Trophy, Ron Zook and his boys will try to throw a monkey-wrench in the Wildcat's bowl hopes.

A loss here could be the difference between a New Year's Day bowl and the Toilet Bowl for Northwestern.

Expect no letdown after a huge upset of Iowa, as defensive end Corey Wootton dominates the Illini offensive line, and Northwestern rolls.

Wildcats 24, Illini 14

No. 10 Iowa Hawkeyes (9-1), (5-1) @ No. 11 Ohio State Buckeyes (8-2), (5-1); 3:30 p.m.—ABC

In the game of the week, Terrelle Pryor will face the best defense he has faced all season.

Iowa has been on the razor-edge of disaster all season, and after losing quarterback Ricky Stanzi, the Hawkeyes have fallen off.

Ohio State will dominate this game, and Iowa will be hoping to avoid ending the season on a three game losing streak.

The injury riddled Hawkeyes will not be able to contain Pryor and the offense that only scored 10 on Northwestern will struggle mightily against the Buckeyes defense.

Hawks 7, Buckeyes 21

Ohio State entrenches itself firmly in the driver's seat this week, and the conference race will look a little clearer at the top.

Creature vs Creature Wisconsin Badgers-Indiana Hoosiers: A Badger's Take

Carl Stine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:08:15 -0500

The Wisconsin Badgers enter this Saturday's game in Bloomington Indiana with a 6-2 record and ranked no. 21 in the BCS rankings.

The Hoosiers hope to trip up Wisconsin after having Iowa on the ropes last week, and letting them come back.

Wisconsin will have another shot at an opponent with little or no defense, after soundly pummelling Purdue, 37-0 last week.

The Hoosiers' pass defense ranks dead last in conference play, while their run defense is eighth.

The Badgers have struggled in some games this year to close out opponents.

Not this time, and the Badgers hope to improve on their record and wind up in a January bowl game.

Wisconsin will give Indiana all they can handle, and then some. The Badgers game plan should be the same as last week, come out and establish the run, and never get away from it.

John Clay leads the conference in rushing yards per game as well as touchdowns, and the Badgers as a team have rushed for 194.6 yards per game, third in the Big Ten.

Junior quarterback Scott Tolzien will have the opportunity to get back on track against a weak Indiana secondary.

Final Prediction: Badgers 27 Hoosiers - 13

Keep an Eye On -

Chris Borland —The Badgers special teams standout got his first start as a linebacker last week against Purdue, and played well most of the time he was in. He had some over pursuit issues, but nothing the coaching staff won't address this week.

Indiana's Ends— Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton are nothing to be trifled with, and Tolzien has been horrific when he is pressured.

Running game —Not only do the Badgers have the conference's leading rusher, but the leading run defense. The Badgers allowed only 66 yards on the ground last week and have averaged only 73.8 yards per game during conference play.

Special Teams— If there is anywhere Indiana has an advantage, this is it. The Badgers rank dead last in the conference in kick return yardage for the second year in a row, and their return defense has been atrocious all year long. The bad news for the Hoosiers is that senior cornerback, Ray Fisher, who is fourth in the country in return yards, will be out for the season.

Check out Dan Karell's Badgers vs Hoosiers article.

Big Ten Football '09: Week 10 Preview

Carl Stine — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:56:45 -0500

The next few weeks will go a long way in determining the Big Ten Champion.

With conference leaders like Penn State, Ohio State, and Iowa playing each other in the next weeks, the conference picture will get much clearer.

Will the Nittany Lions be able to get past the Buckeyes?

Can Iowa continue to orchestrate ridiculous victories, or will they fall victim to their own mistakes against the Buckeyes next week?

Stay tuned, ladies and gentlemen, because this conference race is just starting to heat up.

Northwestern Wildcats (5-4) (2-3) at No. 4 Iowa Hawkeyes (9-0) (5-0): 12:00 ESPN

Northwestern looked good against Penn State for three quarters last week. Then Evan Royster and Daryll Clark got rolling, and things got ugly.

Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi had quite possibly his best and worst game of the season rolled into one. (Is that even possible?)

The Hawkeyes better not let down at home against these Cats, or Northwestern will ruin the Hawkeyes' hopes of a National Championship.

Mike Kafka and Co. have been very efficient with the ball this season, and it will be imperative that Tyler Sash and friends force a few mistakes for Iowa to win this one.

Wildcats 10, Hawkeyes 27

Purdue Boilermakers (3-6) (2-3) at Michigan Wolverines (5-4) (1-4): 12:00 BTN

Purdue got blasted by the Wisconsin Badgers last week and will be looking to get back into rhythm both on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

Michigan is struggling. 'Nuff said.

Purdue must win their next three games to be bowl eligible, and I think they start here.

Ralph Bolden will have a big day, and the Purdue defense will be out for blood against a young Michigan offense.

It will be a close game, being in Ann Arbor, but the Boilers pull out the victory on the road.

Boilers 28, Wolverines 27

Illinois Fighting Illini (2-6) (1-5) at Minnesota Golden Gophers (5-4) (3-3): 12:00 BTN

Illinois coach Ron Zook finally saw a spark of life from his team last week against Michigan, and Minnesota torched Michigan State for 505 total yards.

Minnesota proved that they can score without the conference's leading receiver, Eric Decker.

They will continue that trend at home this week against a hapless Illini squad.

Illini 17, Gophers 31

Western Michigan Broncos (4-5) (3-3) at Michigan State Spartans (4-5) (3-3): 12:00 BTN

Michigan State saw all hope of a conference title vanish last week with the loss to Minnesota.

Now they have a warm-up for the rest of the season.

Sparty will come out with a vengeance against the Broncos, quarterback Kirk Cousins will throw at least three touchdowns, and Sparty will pull away in the second half.

Broncos 21, Sparty 35

No. 21 Wisconsin Badgers (6-2) (3-2) at Indiana Hoosiers (4-5) (1-4): 12:00 BTN

Indiana leads the Big Ten in turnover margin. They also had Iowa on the ropes last week and let them come back.

Wisconsin is looking to win out and finish the season in a semi-significant bowl game.

The Badgers will get big back John Clay going early and often, just like they did last week against Purdue, and let their running game dominate the seventh-worst run defense in the conference.

The Badgers' O-line will struggle with Indiana ends Greg Middleton and Jammie Kirlew, so the Badgers need to get ahead early and not throw the ball too much.

If Indiana drops as many passes as Purdue did last week, this will be another whuppin' by the Badgers.

Badgers 28, Hoosiers 17

No. 16 Ohio State Buckeyes (7-2) (4-1) at No. 11 Penn State Nittany Lions (8-1) (4-1): 3:30 ABC

This is the game of the week in the conference, and it also has major BCS game implications.

JoePa seems to have the Nittany Lions rolling after a pedestrian non-conference schedule.

Ohio State is hoping to get itself back in the conference title hunt with consecutive wins over PSU and Iowa.

The story of this game will be Penn State running back Evan Royster. If the Lions find a way to move the ball on the ground against a stellar Ohio State defense, the Buckeyes will be in for a long day.

Last week's game will be nothing like this week's, OSU. Penn State is not another Aggie team.

Penn State has the speed to match up with Ohio State across the board, and this game is in Happy Valley.

Buckeyes 13, Nittany Lions 21

Hopefully the officiating and the coaching are better this week than last week.

Wisconsin Badgers Bash Boilers 37-0

Carl Stine — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:40:44 -0400

The Wisconsin Badgers, led by running back John Clay and a stout defense, pummeled the Purdue Boilermakers in Madison, 37-0.

After seeing their last two games fall apart because of mistakes in the passing game, the Badger's coaches decided to pound the rock this week.

And pound the rock they did.

The Badgers opened the game with an eleven play drive, and all eleven plays were run plays, with the drive finally culminating in a John Clay one yard run.

The Badgers never looked back.

Clay, Lance Kendricks, and numerous others got involved in a rushing attack that produced 266 yards on ther ground. And the Badgers produced 381 yards of offense to the Boilers 141.

The Badgers freshman, David Gilbert, blocked a punt that was returned for a touchdown by Aaron Henry.

Wisconsin's run defense continued to be very tough, limiting Purdue to only 60 yards on the ground.

Purdue quarterback Joey Elliot was plagued by inconsistency and dropped passes, and the Badgers capitalized.

Phillip Welch was perfect on three field goal attempts for Wisconsin, and the Badgers became bowl eligible with four games remaining on the schedule.

Today marked the first time the Badgers have shut out a Big Ten opponent since 1999, and was also the Badgers twenty third consecutive home victory against unranked opponents.

Wisconsin-Purdue: A Badger's Take on the Brawl with the Boilermakers

Carl Stine — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:05:24 -0400

A bye week could not have come at a better time for the Wisconsin Badgers.

After winning their first five games, the Badgers struggled offensively in two losses to Iowa and Ohio State.

The reason for those struggles? Their inability to run the football consistently, and the failure of offensive coordinator Paul Chryst to make adjustments so that they can do so.

In the Ohio State game, this was demonstrated by turning the ball over.

Then in the Iowa game, the same scenario repeated itself.

The Badgers were able to move the ball but unable to hang onto it.

Chryst has placed too much on the shoulders of first year quarterback Scott Tolzien.

Tolzien has struggled the last three games, and the recipe for the success of this Baddger team calls for Clay, Clay, and more Clay.

A back as big as Clay is often more effective in the second half, with his punishing running style, and deceptive speed, Clay will do more damage if given the ball more often in the second half.

While Tolzien was very, very good for his first four games, one could see he might struggle after his performance against Minnesota.

Tolzien will make some plays, but he should not be expected to make them all.

This Saturday looks like the game the Badgers need to emphasize the running game, as Purdue enters this game ranked ninth in the conference in rushing yards allowed per game, and the Badgers are third in rushing yards gained.

After facing the two toughest defenses in the Big Ten, the Badgers will need to run Clay early, and run Clay often. The success of Tolzien's passing game will be predicated on the Badgers being able to effectively use playaction.

The Badgers will be the favorite to win this game at home, but Purdue has a potent offense and has started to force some turnovers and limit mistakes.

The Boilermakers lead the conference in giveaways with 23, while Wisconsin has given away the second most, 15.

Should the Badgers make mistakes, such as they have made in each of their last three games, i.e. fumble and interception returns for touchdowns, expect the opportunistic Purdue defense to take advantage.

On the Badgers' defensive side of the ball, linebacker Mike Taylor will be out for the rest of the season. The Badgers replace him with Freshman special teams sensation, Chris Borland.

The linebackers and secondary have been unexpected weak spots on this sometimes porous defense. They have shown flashes of brilliance—Michigan State, Ohio State—and flashes of sheer stupidity—Michigan State, Iowa.

Should the Badgers find a way to slow down Purdue's passing attack, and they never let running back Ralph Bolden gash them for a big play, they can play ball control football, and run, run, run.

Expect a tight game in the first half, 14-10 at halftime, with the Badgers pulling away in the second half for a 28-17 victory.

Should the Badgers fail to get Clay involved early and often, there will be another upset by Boilermakers.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Nine Preview

Carl Stine — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:40:41 -0400

If anyone is going to carry the Big Ten banner into national prominence this January, it will have to be Iowa.

After quarterback Ricky Stanzi threw a game winning touchdown pass with two seconds remaining last week, the Hawks improved to 8-0.

Not pretty, but good.

As the season starts to wind down, things start to heat up in the conference race...

Indiana Hoosiers (4-4) (1-3) at Iowa Hawkeyes (8-0) (4-0) 12:00 ESPN

Thanks to a strong showing in the BCS computer rankings, the Hawkeyes have moved up to No. 4 in the latest BCS rankings. A big win against a struggling Hoosier team may be what is needed to finally vault them into the top three.

After needing a last second touchdown to put away pesky Michigan State, Iowa will have no such problem with Hoosier quarterback Ben Chappell and the sputtering Indiana offense.

Iowa's stout farm boys on the o-line will keep Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton out of the Iowa backfield and give Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi time to light up a questionable secondary.

Hoosiers: 7, Hawkeyes: 27

New Mexico State Aggies (3-5) (1-3) at No. 17 Ohio State Buckeyes (6-2) (4-1) 12:00 BTN

The Aggies of New Mexico State have not had the greatest of seasons, and this weekend things will only get worse.

Fresh off of a whooping of Minnesota where they put up over 500 yards of offense, Ohio State will look to keep things rolling this week against a non-conference opponent.

The Aggies will be taken to the woodshed and whipped like a redheaded stepchild, but OSU credibility will go down yet again if they don't win by about 30 points.

Aggies: 10, Buckeyes: 34

Purdue Boilermakers (3-5) (2-2) at Wisconsin Badgers (5-2) (2-2) 12:00 ESPN2

Wisconsin is coming back after a bye week in which they fell out of the BCS rankings.

Purdue is still trying to remain high after their big upset of Ohio State.

Wisconsin will have to get big John Clay rolling early against one of the worst run defenses in the Big Ten, and quarterback Scott Tolzien will have to limit mistakes to win this one.

Purdue has turned the ball over more than any other Big Ten team this season, so watch for Badgers defensive end O'Brien Schofield to cause some problems and force bad throws from Purdue quarterback Joey Elliot.

Purdue will be flat after overachieving last week, and Brett Bielema will use the bye week to get the Badgers ready for this one...

Boilers: 21, Badgers: 35

Michigan Wolverines (5-3) (1-3) at Illinois Fighting Illini (1-6) (0-5) 3:30 ABC

A game against surprising Big Ten doormat is just what the doctor ordered for Michigan.

Tate "Wonderboy" Forcier will have a huge day against a very suspect Illini defense, and Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor will combine for at least 250 yards rushing.

Illinois, get some help...

Wolverines: 42, Illini: 17

No. 12 Penn State Nittany Lions (7-1) (3-1) at Northwestern Wildcats (5-3) (2-2) 3:30 ESPN

This is an interesting match-up, but Penn State seems to be hitting their stride, especially after a convincing win last week over Michigan.

Northwestern's defense will really have to step it up to stop the balanced attack of PSU quarterback Clark and tailback Evan Royster.

Royster will try to keep pace with Wisconsin running back John Clay in this game for All-Conference running back.

Lions: 28, Wildcats: 14

Michigan State Spartans (4-4) (3-2) at Minnesota Golden Gophers (4-4) (2-3)

Watch out Goldy!

Michigan State is on a roll...

After losing the game to Iowa last week, Michigan State will be out for blood. Hard hitting linebacker Greg Jones will be flying all over the field, and it will be a nightmare day for Adam Weber and the rest of the Minnesota offense, especially without sensational wide receiver Eric Decker.

Minnesota's secondary has been highly suspect at times, and Sparty quarterback Kirk Cousins will take advantage.

Sparty: 35, Goldy: 17

After the marquee match-ups of the past few weeks, this will be a slower week in the conference; but watch for Purdue, as they try to play spoiler to Wisconsin, and Iowa, as they try to remain unbeaten and improve to 9-0.

Wisconsin Badgers Basketball Breakdown '09-'10

Carl Stine — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 11:14:20 -0400

The Big Ten conference surprised all of college basketball nation last season when they sent seven teams to the NCAA tournament.

They are expecting it this season.

With the return of every player chosen to the All-Conference team last season, the Big Ten will be making a push to battle the ACC for conference supremacy.

Great for the conference. Not so great for the Wisconsin Badgers.

Wisconsin is a perfect eight-for-eight in making the trip to the NCAA Tournament since Bo Ryan became the head coach, and has finished in the top four of the Big Ten each of those seasons.

This year will be the most difficult conference schedule tthe Badgers have played during that period.

Vital Stats:

Coach: Bo Ryan (ninth season).
Last season's record: 20-13 overall, 10-8 in Big Ten (tied for fourth in league).
Postseason: Lost to Xavier in second round of NCAA Tournament.
Final regular-season RPI: 45th.
Last time didn't make NCAA field: 1998.
Returning starters: 3.

No., 40 by Rivals
No. 36 by CollegeHoops.net
7th in the Big Ten by Jeff Goodman at Foxsports
10-seed by ESPN's Joe Lunardi

Schedule Breakdown:

The Badgers' basketball team(unlike the football team) has not been maligned for weak non-conference schedule in recent years.

This year is no different.

The Badgers will face off against Arizona in the Maui Invitational right around Thanksgiving, and they will tangle with the Duke Blue Devils on Dec. 2 in Madison.

The conference schedule will include tangles with Michigan State, Michigan, Purdue, Ohio State, and Illinois—any or all of which could be nationally ranked in the Top 25.

Roster Breakdown:

Projected Starting Five:

Trevon Hughes, senior, guard, 12.1 points per game

Jason Bohannon, senior, guard, 10.3 points per game

Tim Jarmusz, junior, guard, 3.4 points per game

Keaton Nankivil, junior, forward, 4.5 points per game

Jon Leuer, junior, forward, 8.8 points per game

Guard: Trevon Hughes, Sr., Jason Bohannon, Sr., Ryan Evans*, Fr., Dan Fahey, Fr., Tim Jarmusz*, Jr., Wquinton Smith, Jr., Jordan Taylor, So., Rob Wilson*, So., Brett Valentyn, Jr.

Forward/Center: Jared Berggren, Fr., Mike Bruesewitz, Fr., J.P. Gavinski, Jr., Jon Leuer, Jr., Ian Markolf, So., Keaton Nankivil, Jr.

*denotes G/F

Wisconsin has consistently "reloaded" under Bo Ryan, from Alando Tucker to Marcus Landry.

This season gives Coach Ryan a chance to once again prove he is one of the best in the nation at getting the best results with the least raw talent.

Senior guards Trevon Hughes and Jason Bohannon each struggled with consistency at some point during the season last year. The two "elder statesmen" will look to be consistent this season, both on the offensive and defensive ends of the court.

The Badgers will need a pair of the bench guards to step up, whether its Jordan Taylor, Rob Wilson, or Tim Jarmusz.

Underneath the basket is the biggest question mark for the Badgers.

Junior Jon Leuer has been criticized at times for being too thin, but came to practice this season after having bulked up to 228 pounds during the offseason.

Coaches and players alike are very excited about the play of freshman center Jared Berggren, and Keaton Nankivil showed flashes of brilliance at times last season before being sidelined by an injury.

If centers Ian Markolf or J.P. Gavinski contribute solid minutes, the Badgers' big man will be a "big" asset to the team.

Outlook:

As mentioned, Ryan always gets the most out of his teams.

The Badgers just don't have the athletes to run the floor consistently, so if anybody gets them into a fast-paced game, they will be hurting.

Bo's recipe for success is predicated on sound fundamentals such as tough defense, solid passes, and limiting turnovers. Expect the Badgers to be very tough to score on defensively, and to take their time moving the ball on offense so as to frustrate defenses.

An 11-7 finish in conference is my prediction, with a surprising run to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tourney, and a 21-9 overall record.

Bucky Banter:

— The Badgers are 29th in Ken Pomeroy's rankings and 42nd in the RPI going into the season.

— Last season's first-round victory over Florida State marked the first time the Badgers have defeated a higher-seeded team in the tournament while coached by Bo Ryan.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Eight Preview

Carl Stine — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:12:18 -0400

Iowa just keeps winning.

After barely squeaking by Arkansas State, the Hawkeyes won in Madison, Wisc. last week to increase their winning streak to 11 games and improve to 7-0 on the season.

The other story in the Big Ten last week was Purdue's upset of Ohio State in West Lafayette.

By the way, Ohio State, the 1985 Wisconsin Badgers called. They want their playbook back.

Illinois Fighting Illini (1-5) (0-4) @ Purdue Boilermakers (2-5) (1-2), 12:00, ESPN2

The Fighting Illini have had a rough year, to put it mildly.

This week will be no different, as Purdue will turn out to be a less than hospitable host for the second week in a row.

Purdue running back Ralph Bolden will have a field day against the porous Illini defense.

Prediction: Illini 10, Boilers 35.

Indiana Hoosiers (4-3) (1-2) @ Northwestern Wildcats (4-3) (1-2), 12:00, BTN

The Indiana Hoosiers are an enigma to me. Just when I started to think they might be a decent ball team, they lost to VIrginia.

The Hoosiers face a frightening prospect this week, trying to regain lost momentum against rival Northwestern in Evanston.

If the Hoosiers don't get pressure on Wildcat quarterback Mike Kafka, they will be in for a very long day.

Prediction: Hoosiers, 10 Wildcats, 21.

Minnesota Golden Gophers (4-3) (2-2) @ #18 Ohio State Buckeyes (5-2) (3-1), 12:00, ESPN

Minnesota gets the unenviable task of trying to beat Ohio State at home after a loss by the Buckeyes.

This one will be ugly.

You can bet Jim Tressel and staff are stressing execution this week, and the Minnesota defense is not good enough to force Ohio State to make any mistakes.

Expect a low-scoring, rushing game with Minnesota not able to get wide receiver Eric Decker involved in the offense.

Prediction: Gophers 7, Buckeyes 17.

#13 Penn State Nittany Lions (6-1) (2-1) @ Michigan Wolverines (5-2) (1-2) 3:30 ABC

Penn State needs to win this game. Michigan needs to win this game more.

After a miserable 1-2 start in the conference, the Wolverines' road doesn't get any easier against a tough Penn State squad.

Home field advantage will count for a little something, but the superior defense of Penn State will win this game.

Prediction: PSU 28, Michigan 24.

#7 Iowa Hawkeyes (7-0) (3-0) @ Michigan State Spartans (4-3) (3-1) 7:05 BTN

As previously stated, the Hawkeyes just keep winning.

And this week should be no different.

Michigan State's secondary has been questionable at times, and Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi will be able to take advantage.

The Hawkeyes' defense leads the Big Ten in takeaways and turnover margin, and this week will be more of the same.

Prediction: Hawkeyes 17, Sparty 10.

Bye: Wisconsin Badgers (5-2) (2-2)

If Iowa continues to win, another team will be carrying the Big Ten reputation into a BCS game.

And, by the way, which SEC team wants to play Ohio State?

Wisconsin Badgers-Iowa Hawkeyes: A Badger's Take

Carl Stine — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:42:33 -0400

Note to Wisconsin's coaching staff: Iowa's run defense is not as good as the pass defense. And, by the way, your running backs can move the ball against any defense, especially in the second half of games, so it would behoove you guys to give Clay the ball!

The Iowa Hawkeyes come to Camp Randall Stadium Saturday sporting an impressive 6-0 record and sitting atop the Big Ten along with Ohio State.

Last year's game between these teams featured Iowa running back Shonn Greene running all over the Wisconsin defense and Iowa romping at Kinnick Stadium.

Not gonna happen this year.

Even though the Badgers lost to OSU last week, they came away with some positives to carry to this battle with Iowa.

The Badgers' offense moved the ball against, arguably, one of the top five defenses in the nation, yet struggled to score.

If the Badgers can establish a running game early against a rush defense that ranks sixth in the conference, the Badgers will roll.

The advantage here is that the Badgers are now battle tested after last week's game, and Iowa's biggest test is a questionable Penn State squad.

Give Iowa all the credit in the world, however, if they win this game, they may win out.

The Hawkeyes enter the game leading the conference in pass defense and turnover margin.

The Badgers turned the ball over twice last week, and both times it was a result of quarterback pressure, which led to poor decisions.

If the Hawkeyes stop the run and get heat on Scott Tolzien, the Badgers will be in for another long day.

Be prepared for a bruising brawl with the Badgers looking to avenge last year's loss and stay alive in the Big Ten race while Iowa looks to remain perfect.

Wisconsin will win if...

1. Quarterback Scott Tolzien rebounds from two sub par outings.

Tolzien's performance hinges on the blocking of the front line. As the offensive line goes, so goes the Badger's passing game.

If Iowa forces the Badgers into relying on the pass to win the game, it will be a long day for the Badgers.

Iowa's defense has been very opportunistic, with 19 takeaways so far this season.

The Badgers have struggled to protect the ball at times, specifically last week when there was pressure put on Tolzien consisently. If the Hawkeyes can get pressure on Tolzien without blitzing linebackers and safeties all day long, the Hawkeyes will win this one by two or more scores.

2. The Badgers defense plays like it did last week. The Badgers kept Ohio State's offense off of the field, and held them to under 200 yards of total offense.

Ohio State quarterback, Terrelle Pryor only completed 5 passes the whole game...

Of course, he didn't need to throw much in the second half.

3. John Clay rushes for 100 yards or more. In every game this season that Clay has been held below 100 yards, the Badgers have been too close at the end. When he is effective rushing, it opens up the passing game in a big way, and sets up the playaction pass deep.

The Hawkeyes will win if...

1. The defense forces two or more turnovers. Last week the Badgers turned the ball over twice, and it led to 14 points for the opposition. As already mentioned, the Hawkeyes force a ton of turnovers.

2. The offense can establish some sort of running game. The Badger run defense has been better than expected this season, ranking fifth in the conference in yards per game average.

With the return of Iowa tigh end Tony Moeaki against Michigan, the Hawkeyes have another threat on offense. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi is much like Terrelle Pryor in terms of passing ability, but has a stronger arm. If the run game gets going, the Badgers will struggle to stop the Hawkeyes passing game.

3. They stop Clay. The Hawkeyes run defense is ranked sixth in the Big Ten in yards allowed per game, but that number is deceptive. Against Arizona and running back Nic Grigsby, they were very effective. The Hawkeyes have struggled at times against teams that run a spread offense, and the Badgers run a more traditional style, with some flashes of a pro style offense mixed in.

If the Hawkeyes minimize Clay's yards per carry, they will have an easy time stopping the Badger offense.

As already stated, this game will be a back and forth, physical struggle between two talented teams.

It will be a low scoring contest, and whichever team can limit mistakes, penalties, turnovers, missed tackles, etc...will emerge with a win.

Iowa - 21 Wisconsin - 20

Check out Kevin Trahan's Iowa-Wisconsin Creature vs Creature breakdown.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Seven Preview

Carl Stine — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:26:57 -0400

It will be hard to top last week in the Big Ten, with Ohio State, in a bizarre game, once again proving their superiority, and Iowa squeaking past Michigan at home.

This week's slate includes a Michigan duel with Delaware State—yes, Delaware State (insert Big Ten non-conference opponent joke here).

The most interesting games this week will be Minnesota traveling to Penn State and Iowa traveling to Wisconsin.

(If you want to see another Big Ten offense look foolish this week, a la Wisconsin, travel to West Lafayette to see the team leading the conference in turnovers be owned by OSU.)

Illinois Fighting Illini @ Indiana Hoosiers 7:00

A team struggling on offense and defense against another team struggling on offense and defense...hmmm.

If you want to skip a game this week, pick this one—apologies to the fans of these teams.

The Indiana defense will have a field day against the Illini offense and continue along the road to a bowl game.

Illinois - 14 Indiana - 31

No. 11 Iowa Hawkeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers 12:00

Wisconsin moved the ball very well last week and allowed less than 200 yards of offense to OSU.

The problem was quarterback Scott Tolzien threw one more touchdown to the opposition than to his own team.

This will be a battle as undefeated Iowa rolls into Camp Randall Stadium.

This will be a low scoring affair, with big, physical lines punishing each other all day.

Iowa - 10 Sconnie - 17

Delaware State Hornets @ Michigan Wolverines 12:00

Ah, yet another Big Ten powerhouse playing against a cupcake.

Michigan quarterback needs a break after being plagued by the Iowa defense last week.

'Nuff said.

Hornets - 3 Wolverines - 35

Northwestern Wildcats @ Michigan State Spartans 12:00

Michigan State has started back on the road toward respectability with consecutive wins, including one over Michigan.

The matchup to watch in this game will be the Northwestern defensive line against the MSU O-line.

In the MSU loss to Wisconsin three weeks ago, the Badgers disrupted the timing of both Spartan quarterbacks who played, and this led to three interceptions.

Michigan State is playing at a better level now, however, and will give the Wildcats all they can handle...

Spartans - 24 Wildcats - 14

Minnesota Golden Gophers @ No. 14 Penn State Nittany Lions 3:30

This one is an intriguing matchup. Penn State has yet to come even close to beating a good team, while the Gophers haven't shown they are capable of winning a big game either.

Minnesota has established that they can run the ball, and Penn State struggles to run the ball.

In an upset, Minnesota will win this one.

PSU - 14 Gophers - 17

No. 7 Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers 12:00

As mentioned earlier, Purdue will be run ragged in this game.

An offense that cannot protect the ball and a defense that can't stop anybody is a recipe for disaster against these Buckeyes.

Boilers - 10 Buckeyes - 35

Penn State's battle with Minnesota and Iowa's tangle with Wisconsin are going to be the games to watch this week.

By the way, take the Buckeyes, no matter the spread...

Big Ten Battle: A Preview of Wisconsin and Ohio State

Carl Stine — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 10:51:27 -0400

In the midst of all the Buckeye love, the 16 point spread for this weekend's game, and the Terrelle Pryor hype, there are two major bright spots to which Wisconsin must look if it is going to finally silence the doubters this weekend in Columbus, Ohio.

The play of quarterback Scott Tolzien, and the dominance of defensive ends JJ Watt and O'Brien Schofield.

The Badgers will be successful running the ball, they always are. John Clay is an exceptional talent, but Tolzien holds the key to this game in his hands.

Tolzien has been consistent all season, completing almost 66 percent of his passes and throwing for nine touchdowns.

Schofield is tied for most tackles for loss in the nation. He made a statement in last week's game, garnering two sacks.

Also on tap for Saturday, is the Buckeye fans’ response to Wisconsin Safety Jay Valai. Valai knocked out two Buckeye players last season during the game in Madison.

This Saturday, the Badgers look to beat Ohio State in the Horseshoe for the fourth time in five attempts.

While Ohio State has only one loss on its record (to USC), and the top ranked defense in the Big Ten, they have accomplished this against offenses with much less firepower and fewer options than Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin receiving game, led by tight end Garrett Graham, and wide receivers Nick Toon and Isaac Anderson, is a viable threat to cause severe damage to the Buckeye secondary.

If Tolzien does have a rough day throwing the ball (see last week), offensive coordinator Paul Chryst can hand the ball off to the big, dependable John Clay, and let him work.

Backup tailback Zach Brown has been demoted to No. 3 on the depth chart after developing a severe case of fumble-itis. Over his last three games, Brown has fumbled at least one time. Freshman Montee Ball will take over for him.

The glaring weakness on the Wisconsin side of the ball is linebacker Jaevery McFadden.

Expected to anchor the linebackers this season, he has instead been the weak link in an otherwise strong unit.

One play comes to mind last week, where JJ Watt had a guy pinned behind the line on an attempted end-around by the Minnesota Gophers, and McFadden clipped Watt while over pursuing, which allowed the Minnesota player to cut back and gain positive yards.

Blake Sorenson has been much better at the linebacker position when he has played.

I think this game will be one of the best games of the year in the Big Ten, with Wisconsin edging the Buckeyes 24-21.

Keys to the Game

Sacks Allowed—The Badgers offense leads the nation in sacks allowed, letting opposing teams drop the quarterback only twice in five games. Ohio State has only allowed six sacks in five games.

Sacks—Wisconsin is tied for second in the conference with 14 sacks, while OSU is fourth with 12.

Rushing game—Whichever team has more success pounding the rock has the edge in this one. Wisconsin leads the conference in rushing, while OSU is third ...

Overall, look for a low scoring slugfest, with few big plays on offense, and hard hitting defense.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Six Preview

Carl Stine — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:52:25 -0400

After Michigan's loss last week to Michigan State, only two unbeaten teams remain in the conference.

The Iowa Hawkeyes are 5-0 and have won games with a stout defense and a decent offense.

The Wisconsin Badgers are 5-0 and have won games by forcing turnovers and being balanced on offense.

These teams face different tests this weekend, as the Badgers go to face Ohio State in the horseshoe, while Iowa stays at Kinnick Stadium to face Michigan.

Penn State, Northwestern, and Indiana all look for easy wins outside the conference, while Purdue looks for its first conference win against Minnesota.

Michigan State Spartans (2-3, 1-1) @ Illinois Fighting Illini (1-3, 0-2): Noon—BTN

Illinois is so bad, I think me and the class I teach at school could beat them.

Michigan State finally started to get its mojo back against Michigan.

Expect MSU quarterback Kirk Cousins to throw for close to 300 yards against a weak Illini defense and the MSU defense to look really, really good against the inept, Juiceless Illini offense.

Sparty - 35 Illini - 10

Purdue Boilermakers (1-4, 0-1) @ Minnesota Golden Gophers (3-2, 1-1): Noon—ESPN2

Minnesota lost Paul Bunyan's axe in a bad way last week, fumbling on what could have been the game-winning or tying drive to seal the game for Wisconsin.

Purdue has been up and down all season long.

Purdue's stellar run game should take lessons from the Wisconsin playbook and gash the Minnesota defense all day long.

If Purdue's defense can slow down Eric Decker—nobody can stop him—then Purdue will win this game easily.

Gophers - 21 Boilers - 14

Eastern Illinois Panthers (4-1) @ No. 14 Penn State Nittany Lions (4-1, 1-1): Noon—ESPNC

I don't see the merit in this game for Penn State.

Suffice it to say, Eastern Illinois is 4-1 with their wins coming against Illinois State, Southwest Missouri State, Indiana State, and Austin Peay, and their one blemish suffered at the hands of powerhouse Eastern Kentucky.

This game will be like pitting Verne Troyer and LeBron James in a game of one on one.

If Eastern Illinois scores, it will be a moral victory.

Panthers - 0 Nittany Lions - 38

Miami (OH) RedHawks (0-5) @ Northwestern Wildcats (3-2, 1-1): Noon—BTN

If Penn State's opponent is bad, Northwestern's is atrocious.

Miami (OH) has allowed an average of 41 points per game in their five losses this season.

With Northwestern quarterback Mike Kafka and the rest of the squad looking to continue the good feelings going into East Lansing next week, this will be the perfect game to build some confidence.

RedHawks - 3 Wildcats - 42

Indiana Hoosiers (3-2, 0-2) @ Virginia Cavaliers (1-3): 3:30—No TV

Indiana will have a field day with this Virginia team.

Even though Virginia has finally started to do something right, they still have a fatal flaw that the Hoosiers will exploit.

The Cavaliers allow too many sacks. In fact, against Cincinnati last month, they allowed eight in one game!

Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton, Indiana's defensive ends, will each have about three sacks apiece...could be a long day, Cavs.

Hoosiers - 34 Cavaliers - 17

Wisconsin Badgers (5-0, 2-0) @ No. 9 Ohio State Buckeyes (4-1, 2-0): 3:30—ABC

These last two games should be real doozies.

No one is picking Wisconsin to be even close to tOSU at the 'Shoe.

Wait a minute.

Which Big Ten team is the only team the Sweater Vest does not have a winning record against? You guessed it—Wisconsin.

Wisconsin is undefeated, and most of their games have been deceptively close final scores.

Ohio State has, statistically, the best defense in the conference.

Wisconsin has the most efficient passing offense and is tied for the largest positive turnover margin.

Wisconsin's weakness seems to be the pass defense, while OSU quarterback Terrelle Pryor has not yet proved he can take advantage of said weakness.

Oh yeah. Wisconsin has won three out of the last four contests between these teams in the 'Shoe.

Badgers - 21 Buckeyes - 20

Michigan Wolverines (4-1, 1-1) @ No. 12 Iowa Hawkeyes (5-0, 1-0): 8:05—ABC

Michigan needs to rebound in a big way after losing to "little brother" Michigan State.

Iowa looks to remain unbeaten and continue its quest for that elusive conference championship.

Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier will have to be very careful with the ball, as Iowa is tied for the lead in the conference in takeaways.

Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi needs to manage a clean game and get everyone involved in the offense.

Michigan's rushing offense has been very good, and Iowa's rush defense is stout...somethin's gotta give.

Wolverines - 17 Hawkeyes - 24

While you watch the games, join me online for the weekly game of "Who Will the Big Ten Suspend Next?"

Bucky Banter: Michigan State Spartans

Carl Stine — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:43:34 -0400

This week's battle features two teams who are looking to establish some momentum heading into the Big Ten portion of the schedule.

Here is a breakdown of some key position comparisons that will affect this game:

Passing Game

Alright, class...

Who leads the Big Ten in passer efficiency rating?

If you answered Michigan's Tate Forcier, Iowa's Ricky Stanzi, Penn State's Daryll Clark, Ohio State's Terrelle Pryor, or Illinois's Juice Williams, you were incorrect.

If you answered Michigan State's Kirk Cousins and Wisconsin's Scott Tolzien, you were correct!

Surprisingly, Tolzien has prove to be an effective passer for the Badgers' offense, averaging 214 passing yards per game. Not bad for a guy who started practice at No. 3 on the depth chart!

Not quite as surprising is the success of MSU's Cousins. Michigan State has good receivers, and Cousins has taken advantage, amassing 649 yards on 70 attempts and five touchdowns in his first three games.

The quarterbacks in this game have both shown they can make the big play, and Tolzien has great field vision.

The defensive secondaries for both teams have been shown susceptible at times, MSU against both Notre Dame last week and Central Michigan the week before. Wisconsin was scorched by Fresno State's passing attack but made adequate adjustments to force some turnovers and win the game.

This week, the Badgers will try and slow down MSU's potent passing attack.

The difference between the two opposing quarterbacks is this: Cousins mainly throws to two receivers, Tolzien really spreads the ball around.

This will benefit the Badgers, who will be able to zero in on those two receivers and maybe limit some of the Spartans playmaking ability.

Advantage: MSU

Running Game

Wisconsin's sophomore tailback, John Clay turned in a lackluster performance in his first career start against Wofford last week.

Clay fumbled the ball three times and did not score, while his backup Zach Brown had only one fumble to two touchdowns.

The Badgers are searching for someone to carry on the great Badger tradition of pounding the ball, but with the inexperience along the offensive line, they are finding it difficult.

Expect more platooning this week.

MSU doesn't have a running back in the top 10 in yards gained in the conference.

Advantage: Bucky

Defensive Line

The Badger defense has sacked the opponent's quarterback seven times this season, MSU, eight.

The difference in this game is the fact that Wisconsin has the more balanced offense and an opportunistic defense.

MSU will be kept guessing all day long as to whether the Badgers will throw or run, and Bucky will be able to sometimes send pressure from the linebacker position, while dropping back linebackers in coverage in certain situations.

Michigan State was expected to have a stellar defense, and then the season started...

The Spartans' rushing defense is fourth in the Big Ten, but they have yet to play a team with running backs that are the caliber of Wisconsin...

The Badgers were much maligned before the season, based on the guys they lost last year and lack of experience. Defensive ends JJ Watt and O'Brien Schofield have really stepped up for the Badgers. Schofield has 7.5 tackles for loss on the season, tied for first in the nation, and will be hungry for more come Saturday.

Advantage: Even

Defensive Secondary

As was already mentioned, both squads have struggled in this area, leading me to believe this will be a high scoring game.

Wisconsin has the third best passing defense in the conference and has faced a quarterback close to Cousins's caliber in Fresno State's Ryan Colburn.

MSU is a little weaker statistically, based on their performance against Jimmy Clausen and Notre Dame.

Advantage: Even

Expect a shootout, with Wisconsin coming out on top because they are at home, and, let's face it, Camp Randall is a bad place to be the opponent...

What to Watch

Turnovers - The Badgers have a +2 turnover ratio, MSU is even.

Linebackers - Michigan State's Greg Jones leads the conference in tackles, but the Wisconsin triumvirate of Culmer St. Jean, Mike Taylor, and Jaevery McFadden can all be found among the Big Ten's top 20 in tackles...the next MSU defender after Jones, can be found at No. 33 on the same list.

Coaching - Wisconsin's coaches have made good in-game adjustments this season, especially on defense. Michigan State's...not so much.

The winner of this game may take third place in the Big Ten.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Four Preview

Carl Stine — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 19:42:17 -0400

Now comes the time of year when the people of the Midwest stop pulling for each other's teams and start the hatred.

It's Big Ten football.

Let the smack talk begin.

After an exciting week three of Big Ten football, week four kicks off with some great matchups, including Michigan-Indiana, Wisconsin-Michigan State, and Minnesota-Northwestern.

(All times are Eastern Standard.)

Illinois Fighting Illini (1-1) @ No. 13 Ohio State Buckeyes (3-0) 3:30 ABC

Illinois' season did not start out as hoped.

Ohio State is just hitting their stride.

This game will get ugly quickly, as Terrelle Pryor continues to build off a strong performance against Toledo.

The Ohio State defense will fluster Illinois quarterback "Juice" Williams, and without Illinois linebacker Martez Wilson, the Buckeyes will dominate this contest.

Buckeyes 28, Illini 13

Indiana Hoosiers (3-0) @ No. 23 Michigan Wolverines (3-0) 12:00 ESPN2

The Indiana Hoosiers' 3-0 start has been a pleasant surprise.

Fun's over, boys.

Expect Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier and running back Carlos Brown to both have monster games against a yet untested Hoosier defense.

Indiana will try to slow down the Wolverines' high-powered offense with ends Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton.

The Hoosiers haven't won in Ann Arbor since 1967.

They won't this time either.

Wolverines 34, Hoosiers 10

Iowa Hawkeyes (3-0) @ No. 5 Penn State Nittany Lions (3-0) 8:00 ABC

In the marquee game this week, Iowa looks to repeat in Happy Valley against Linebacker U—except Penn State will likely be limited with both linebackers Sean Lee and Navorro Bowman suffering from injuries.

The Hawkeyes will have to figure out how they are going to play on offense: like the team that was miserable the whole game against Northern Iowa or the team that put up some points against Arizona.

A concern on PSU's offense is the run game. The Lions finally got it going on the ground last week behind Evan Royster, but Iowa's run defense is stingy.

Iowa's offense could be hampered by injury, with tight end Tony Moeaki, wide receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, and left tackle Bryan Bulaga all suffering some sort of injury.

Penn State gets revenge in this one, and Penn State quarterback Daryll Clark has a big game.

Lions 17, Hawkeyes 10

Michigan State Spartans (1-2) @ Wisconsin Badgers (3-0) 12:00 ESPN/ESPN2

Watch out, Michigan State. If there is a trap game, this is it.

Sandwiched between Notre Dame and Michigan is Wisconsin.

Michigan State goes into Camp Randall stadium looking for some answers. After consecutive losses, including to Notre Dame, the Spartans hope to bounce back with a "W" in Madison.

The most interesting thing about this game is the two quarterbacks. Wisconsin's Scott Tolzien and Michigan State's Kirk Cousins are the Big Ten's highest-rated quarterbacks after three weeks of play.

Wisconsin's front seven has been playing better than expected, but the secondary is suspect.

MSU's defense has been much worse than advertised.

The Badgers will get Camp Randall "jumpin' around," and Michigan State will go to 1-3 before a big showdown with Michigan.

Badgers 34, Spartans 24

Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-1) @ Northwestern Wildcats (2-1) 12:00 BTN

This game will be very interesting, as Minnesota's offense (which hasn't lived up to expectations) and Northwestern's defense (which also hasn't lived up to expectations) tangle in Evanston.

Minnesota's Eric Decker proved that he is one of the best receivers in the country last week, catching two touchdown passes against Cal.

Decker also proved his toughness, getting blasted by Cal safety Sean Cattouse but holding on to the ball.

If Minnesota doesn't start using somebody besides Decker on offense, it could be a long day for the Gophers.

Gophers 31, Wildcats 17

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (2-1) @ Purdue Boilermakers (1-2) 8:00 ESPN

Notre Dame suffered a crushing defeat to Michigan two weeks ago but rebounded last week with a win over Michigan State. The Irish will continue their streak of games against Big Ten foes when they travel to West Lafayette for a battle with the Boilermakers.

Purdue has been inconsistent this season, taking Oregon to the wire before losing and then losing a game they should have won to Northern Illinois.

Purdue is another Big Ten team that has struggled to maintain some offensive consistency.

If Boilers quarterback Joey Elliott can get something going in the passing game, expect Purdue running back Ralph Bolden to have another big game.

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen will probably be limited after suffering a foot injury last week, and Notre Dame wide receiver Michael Floyd is out for the season.

Boilers 27, Irish 21

Let the battle for Big Ten supremacy begin!

Miami Hurricanes: Destined For Greatness?

Carl Stine — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:22:12 -0400

Take another drink of the orange Kool-Aid folks, Miami Hurricanes football is back!

And if you believe that, I have a bridge I want to sell you in New York City.

Yes, a win against Florida State is big.

A win against Georgia Tech, bigger, especially when both are on national television.

But hold the National Championship prognostication.

The 'Canes are definitely an improved ballclub, and the weakness of the ACC this season may help contribute to a 10-win season.

But to say this team may win the National Championship, or even get there, is a bit premature.

I respect the 'Canes attitude after some predicted an 0-4 start to their season, but let's rehash the wins.

Georgia Tech doesn't even have a quarterback that can throw the ball. If quarterback Josh Nesbitt does have the ability, Yellow Jackets' coach Paul Johnson has yet to use it.

Also, the Tech defense was very suspect after the Clemson game.

Everyone calm down. If Georgia Tech and Florida State continue to struggle the way the have so far, neither team may be ranked at the end of the season.

After being beat by Miami, the Florida State Seminoles wanted to hit someone, hard, and they did right?

Wrong, they beat tiny Jacksonville State by a final of 19-9. They only won by that much courtesy of a State fumble in the last minute after a touchdown by FSU with only :35 on the clock.

While on the surface, the 'Canes have definitely beaten two solid teams, I don't believe the caliber of the ACC is such as was expected at the beginning of the season.

And Hurricanes quarterback, Jacory Harris, has played phenomenally, completing 20-of-25 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns.

Harris threw passes deep, underneath the coverage, and almost always on target.

He is unquestionably an uncommon talent.

But is he enough to lead the Hurricanes to the National Championship?

No.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Three Preview

Carl Stine — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:46:35 -0400

Everyone take a deep breath, reload on the chips and salsa, and get ready to sit in that old recliner again.

It's time for week three.

After all of the hype surrounding last week's outstanding slate of games, this week seems a little more dull.

However, there are some interesting out of conference matchups in the Big Ten this week.

All times are eastern standard.

Saturday, September 19th

Indiana Hoosiers (2-0) at Akron Zips (1-1) 3:30 ESPNU

Indiana has somehow found it's way to a 2-0 record, to the delight of Hoosier fans everywhere.

The test in week three will be for Indiana to stop the Zips' offense. Quarterback Chris Jacquemain is a great passer, and can throw the ball all over the field. The Hoosier defense did a fairly good job against Western Michigan's quarterback Tim Hiller.

On the offensive side, the Hoosiers will have to see if running back Demetrius McCray's 134 yard performance was just a flash in the pan, or if he is the real deal.

Hoosiers 24, Zips 21

Iowa Hawkeyes (2-0) vs Arizona Wildcats (2-0) 3:35 ABC

This is one of those matchups I was referring too. Iowa left tackle Brian Bulaga is listed as day to day as he receives tests for an undisclosed ailment. The Hawkeyes offense will look to get rolling without him.

This game will be a tail of two running games.

Both defenses are solid, especially at end for Arizona and in the Iowa secondary.

Arizona back Nic Grigsby has rushed for five touchdowns in just two games, but AU quarterback Matt Scott is only averaging 175 yards per game and has only thrown for one touchdown.

Watch for Iowa to stack the box on defense and try to dare Scott to throw the ball.

Hawkeyes 17, 'Zona 13

Michigan Wolverines (2-0) vs Eastern Michigan Eagles (0-2) Noon BTN

Michigan is coming off of a huge win against Notre Dame, and the Eagles are coming off of their second consecutive loss.

Michigan freshman quarterback Tate Forcier will get to test his arm against a Western Michigan club that gave Northwestern all they could take last week.

The Eagle's coach, Ron English, is a former Michigan assistant.

Michigan's secondary will need to watch out for Eagles quarterback Andy Schmitt, who will look to exploit a unit that looked soft at times against Notre Dame's receivers.

Michigan 42, Eagles 17

Michigan State Spartans (1-1) at Notre Dame Fightin' Irish (1-1) 3:30 NBC

Michigan State owns the Irish in South Bend, winning their last six contests there.

Not this time.

Charlie Weis is starting to feel a little heat after the loss to Michigan.

The Spartans are coming off of a heartbreaking loss to Central Michigan.

In a battle of teams coming off difficult losses, the arm of quarterback Jimmy Clausen and legs of receiver Michael Floyd will lead the Irish to victory. Floyd is averaging almost 30 yards per catch.

Sparty 17, Notre Dame 31

Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-0) vs California Golden Bears (2-0) Noon ESPN

Minnesota wide receiver Eric Decker may be the best in the nation, but he has little help. The Gophers will have to get their running game going, and quarterback Adam Weber will have to get someone else involved in the passing game.

The Minnesota defense will have a tough time containing the explosive Cal offense.

Led by running back Jahvid Best, the Bears have scored over 50 points in each of their first two contests, while Minnesota has struggled in victories over Syracuse and the Air Force...look out Gophers.

Gophers 28, Bears 34

Northwestern Wildcats (2-0) at Syracuse Orange (0-2) 7:00 ESPN Gameplan

Syracuse looks to go to 0-3 against the Big Ten, and quarterback Mike Kafka and the rest of the Wildcats will gladly oblige.

Obviously Greg Paulus' ability to trounce the Big Ten is limited only to the hardwood.

Northwestern's defensive front will wreak havoc on a weak Syracuse offensive line, and it will be a long day again for the Orange.

Wildcats 21, Orange 20

Ohio State Buckeyes (1-1) vs Toledo (1-1) (@ Cleveland) Noon ESPN Gameplan

Poor lil' Toledo. They think they have a chance in this one....

I guess they have already forgotten that the Buckeyes just don't lose back to back games, especially if they are supposed to win them.

The Buckeyes haven't lost consecutive games since 2004.

Good luck Rockets...

OSU 38, Rockets 14

Penn State Nittany Lions (2-0) vs Temple Owls (0-1) Noon BTN

Another whooping in the offing, as the Lions look to improve to 3-0.

Even if linebacker Navarro Bowman is out, Penn State will leave Temple looking, well a little owly after the game.

Expect Lion's running back Evan Royster to finally get on track in the running game.

Nittany Lions 31, Owls 7

Purdue Boilermakers (1-1) vs Northern Illinois Huskies (1-1) Noon BTN

Northern Illinois was closer against Wisconsin in week one than they had any business being.

Purdue running back Ralph Bolden will look to continue his dominant running this season against a suspect defense.

Boilers 27, NIU 13

Wisconsin Badgers (2-0) vs Wofford Terriers (1-1) Noon BTN

Which Badger team will show up this week? The defense that allowed 21 points in the first half against Fresno State, or the defense that held Fresno State to three points in the second half?

Either way, expect another blowout, as Wisconsin running back John Clay solidifies his position as the Badger starter.

UW 52, Terriers 10

Bye - Illinois

Last week the conference showed that it is still one of the elite conferences in football, and this week, if Minnesota and/or Iowa can pull out a victory, the Big Ten will have made a claim to be the second best football conference in the nation.

Michael Jordan, and What I Learned About Life

Carl Stine — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:36:02 -0400

While some folks hate Michael Jordan and everything he stands for (John Stockton) others worship him with a blind adoration, turning a blind eye to his every fault.

Me, I learned some things from Michael.

Mainly about fathers...you see, my dad is a pastor, but he has always been a basketball fan. When I was a kid he even coached for a while.

My first introduction to Michael was when my dad and I sat down with a group of teenagers in his youth group to watch the Finals in 1992. The Bulls were playing the Trail Blazers and Clyde "the Glide" Drexler. I was hooked.

We lived in Connecticut, and at the time the Celtics were pretty bad. The Knicks, however, were a different story.

The Knicks had John Starks, Anthony Mason, and Patrick Ewing. If there was any way to express the way I feel to this day about John Starks, it would be about the same as the feeling of hatred an Ohio State Buckeye fan has for USC Trojan's coach Pete Carroll

I will never forget watching Michael drive baseline, shake John Starks, then elevate and posterize Patrick Ewing.

My loathing for all things New York Knicks was irrepressible.

The fact that Jordan seemed to always have his biggest games in Madison Square Garden just made me love him all the more.

In just his seventh game as a professional, November 8, 1984, Jordan wowed the New York crowd by dropping 33 points in a Bull's victory. In '86, in the Bull's first full game of the year, Michael broke the record for most points scored at Madison Square Garden, scoring 50.

And it goes on, there was the 47-point game in '88.

"Michael Jordan was as great as I have ever seen him," said then-Knicks coach Rick Pitino. "You can't stop Jordan. He was like Superman, and I didn't have any Kryptonite."

I was too young to remember any of these games, but definitely old enough to start following my dad.

Dad's love for sports was third only to his love for God and for his family. I wanted to do everything my dad did, be everything he was, like everything he liked. He was the ultimate role model to a small child.

Then on July 23, 1993 Michael's father, James Jordan, Sr., was brutally murdered. I was frightened, and the fact that Michael Jordan, the best basketball player in the world, could lose his dad, really made me start to ponder the realities of death and the facts of life.

Jordan had begun to emulate his father. You see, James had a habit of hanging his tongue out of his mouth when he was concentrating.

Understandably, Jordan retired from basketball for a time, citing no interest in the game.

In 1995, Jordan returned to basketball with these words, "I'm back".

The man who had lost the one dearest to him, who had lost his role model and example, came back to doing what he loved.

He persevered.

This taught me a valuable lesson that I will never forget.

No matter what difficulties may be thrown at you, no matter what obstacles may lie in your path, keep pressing on, just keep doing your best, and you can accomplish your goals.

You see there is another role model in my life, another man who means a great deal more to me than a mere basketball player.

My grandfather.

He is a quiet, unassuming man, small in stature, yet in possession of a large heart.

He has always been a huge fan of the Cubs, Bulls, and Bears, and passed that love down to his children and their children.

For over half of my life, my grandfather has battled with cancer. He lost his eldest daughter to the same disease, and yet he is one of the most pleasant, enjoyable people I know.

He always greeted us with a smile and a piece of candy, even when it hurt him to even stand.

He has lived a full life, and is enjoying his time with his grandkids, and now even a few great grandkids.

As I write this, my grandpa's health is slowly deteriorating, and he won't be here for long. But, like MJ, he is one of the people that helped to fashion my life, and be an example, sometimes bad, but mostly good, of what living life is all about.

Jordan seemed to be at his best when sick, when his team was the underdog, or in hostile territory. He took whatever the game of basketball could throw at him, and just hung his tongue out a little further, looked a little angrier, and tried a little harder.

That's how life should be, exciting, and for those who earn it, fulfilling.

You see, Jordan's six rings and his multiple MVP and scoring titles were not a product of his talent alone, but of his will to win, his determination to press on, and his desire to get better.

In his first game back at the Garden after his return to the game, Jordan broke his previous record of 50 points with 55 against the defense of Knicks guard John Starks. Starks was befuddled all night long by Jordan's array of high-flying dunks, effortless fadeaways, and gravity-defying jumpers.

My dad and grandfather taught me to pursue what I love, that family matters, that what you do is who you are.

Jordan taught me to never quit, no matter what...be like Mike.

Wisconsin Badgers Week Two: Fresno State

Carl Stine — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:37:02 -0400

The Wisconsin Badgers go into week two of the college football season with a problem—the flu.

At least 10 of the Badgers' players have reported flu like symptoms. Hopefully they don't make the fans sick this week.

The Badgers have to face Fresno State, a team they squeaked by last season in Cali 13-10.

The Bulldogs lost quarterback Tom Brandstater, but last week put up 511 total offensive yards.

The other problem that the Badgers will face is how to stop Fresno running back Ryan Matthews.

The Bulldogs are 13-2 in the last 15 games Matthews has started, and he has scored 23 touchdowns in his last 20 games.

The Bulldogs will look to test a defense that only allowed 100 yards rushing in its first game. The Badgers defense showed some definite potential, posting three sacks and five tackles for loss.

The Badgers will also have to prepare for the Bulldogs trio of quarterbacks, led by Ryan Colburn and Derek Carr. The Bulldogs must prepare for Badger quarterbacks Scott Tolzien and Curt Phillips.

Tolzien was solid against Northern Illinois, throwing for 257 yards, including an 80-yard strike in the first quarter to Isaac Anderson.

If the Badgers get their ground game going behind John Clay and Zach Brown, it will be a long day for Fresno.

But the Badgers were somewhat lackluster rushing the ball last week, gaining only 94 yards between Clay and Brown.

Fresno State's defense returns eight starters from a year ago, while the Badgers defense is relatively young and inexperienced, especially at the line.

Expect Wisconsin's defensive ends to record a few more sacks in this game. J.J. Watt is very athletic and good sealing off the outside against the run and containing the quarterback.

On special teams the Badgers looked a little better than last season when they were last in the nation in kick return yards.

The kicking game struggled uncharacteristically last week, as sophomore Phillip Welch missed two. You can expect him to rebound this week, and be perfect on any attempts he makes.

This game will start off slow, but the Badgers will avoid the mistake they made last week of lowering their intensity when they are ahead. The Badgers will win this game in the second half by pounding the rock.

What to Watch

Wide receivers

The Badger receivers really stepped up last week, and had one of the better games as a group I have seen in a while. Garret Graham was his usual consistent self.

Was the effectiveness of the Badgers' passing game just an illusion, or will they be able to have some continuity throughout the season?

Mistakes

The team that makes the fewest mistakes will win this game. The Badgers need to be very tight on the penalties, and not turn the ball over. Tolzien threw two picks last week, but no one can blame the first one on him. Someone on the offensive line missed an assignment.

Big Ten

The Big Ten has a big chance to return to the national spotlight this weekend. Purdue versus Oregon, OSU versus USC, and Michigan versus Notre Dame highlight a big weekend for the conference.

Big Ten Football '09: Week Two Preview

Carl Stine — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:11:24 -0400

Week one of the college football season provided us with mixed results in the Big Ten. Teams like Michigan, Penn State, Michigan State, Purdue, and Northwestern showed us something, or won the games they were supposed to win in a big way.

Ohio State, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota, and Iowa all did enough to win, but answered absolutely no questions.

And Illinois, well 37-9...granted, injuries plagued the Illini, but that game was flat ugly. Juice, you let me down, ah well...

Moving on to week two we will see several key out-of-conference matchups. here is the breakdown, all times are EST:

Saturday, September 12

Illinois Fightin' Illini vs Illinois State Redbirds 7:00 PM

So Juice Williams and the Illini are thinkin' "what's next"? After a 37-9 spanking at the hands of the Missouri Tigers, Illinois needs to get its act together before the Big Ten season opener. They will need some positive momentum headed into the rest of the season.

Illinois State will be just the cure for what ails the Illini. Standout wide receiver Arrelious Benn and running backs Daniel Dufrene and Jason Ford are slated to return for the Illinois offense, which will roll this week. The Redbirds lost last week's opener 31-6 to Eastern Illinois, so they obviously have some issues to resolve.

Illini - 42 Redbirds - 6

Indiana Hoosiers vs Western Michigan Broncos 12:00 PM

As predicted, the Hoosiers defense stepped up in their first game against Eastern Kentucky, and the Hoosiers squeaked by with a win. Western Michigan is a horse of a different color, however, and Indiana may struggle if Jammie Kirlew and Greg Middleton can't produce the same type of pressure against quarterback Tim Hiller that Michigan did.

Hiller is an experienced quarterback and the Western Michigan offense will bite the Hoosiers if they don't play even better than last week.

Hoosiers - 24 Broncos - 21

Iowa Hawkeyes @ Iowa State Cyclones 12:05 PM

Iowa, what can we say about Iowa? Two blocked field goals were what it took for the Hawkeyes to walk away with a win last week against Northern Iowa, but they did it. Without Jewel Hampton, there is a significant drop-off in talent at the Iowa tailback position.

Junior quarterback Ricky Stanzi will be able to find a way to win this one, and Iowa should start living up to the preseason hype. Iowa has lost four out of their last five at Jack Trice Stadium, and they will definitely need to get more pressure on Iowa State quarterback Austen Arnaud than they did on UNI's quarterback last week.

Hawkeyes - 17 Cyclones - 13

Michigan Wolverines vs No. 18 Notre Dame Fightin' Irish 3:30 PM

Freshman quarterbacks Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson and the rest of the Michigan Wolverines really let Western Michigan have it last week. Michigan football is comin' back folks. The Wolverines young offense will be tested by Notre Dame's defense, which blanked out a solid Nevada offense last week.

Jimmy Clausen will look to continue his stellar play after going 15-18 for 315 yards and four touchdown performance last week. That's 21 yards per completion. The Michigan defense looked really solid, tackling well and getting pressure on the quarterback consistently. The key to this game will be the play of the defensive lines on both sides. Whichever team consistently pressures the quarterback will have the advantage.

Maize and Blue - 27 Fightin' Irish - 21

Michigan State Spartans vs Central Michigan Chippewas 12:00 PM

Michigan State looked like a team on a mission in last week's thrashing of Montana State. Of course, it was Montana State. Be that as it may, Keith Nichol and Kirk Cousins were both very good, combining for five touchdowns.

The Spartans defense will need to tighten up against the run, but they are a very talented group, especially at linebacker. Chippewa quarterback Dan Lefevour will provide a nice trial for the defensive secondary. Michigan State's defense is just to good for the Chippewas however, and the offense will not slow down any this week.

Sparty - 27 Chippewas - 20 (my wife's pick)

Sparty - 34 Chippewas - 17

Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Air Force Falcons 7:00 PM

The Gophers squeaked by Syracuse in their opener in overtime by a field goal. The Gophers will have to show more emotion and pick up assignments better on the defensive side of the ball, as Air Force is just coming off of it's biggest offensive game ever, a 72-0 pounding of Nicholls State.

Minnesota wide receiver Eric Decker was solid with 9 receptions for 183 yards, but no touchdowns. Gopher quarterback Adam Weber will have to improve on a 19-42 passing day, and the Gophers' defense will need to step it up. The return of Freshman linebacker, Sam Maresh, from open heart surgery, should give the Gophers the emotional boost they will need.

Also, this will be the first game in the Gopher's new TCF Bank stadium. And, by the way, the Orange scored 20 first half points against the Gophers last week, and 0 in the second half.

Gophers - 27 Falcons -17

Northwestern Wildcats vs Eastern Michigan Eagles 12:00 PM

Eastern Michigan is not exactly your traditional football powerhouse. However, the importance of these non conference games to the confidence of Northwestern's players cannot be overlooked. The Wildcats need to generate more of a pass rush on defense, while looking to exploit the Eagles' weak rush defense. Look for Wildcats quarterback Mike Kafka to have a big game, and at least one Northwestern back to break 100 yards rushing.

Northwestern - 42 Eagles - 13

No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes vs No. 3 University of Southern California Trojans 8:00 PM

This is definitely the game of the week, and an opportunity for the Big Ten to get a leg up on its return to national prominence and respectability. Ohio State looked great at times last week against the Navy, but needing a failed two point conversion attempt to win a game does not bode well for the Buckeyes.

The Trojans come to town bringing their potent rushing attack, and that is where Ohio State was gouged last week. Yeah the option Navy uses makes it hard to prepare all the time for the pass, but poor tackling plagued the Buckeyes in the fourth quarter, allowing the Midshipmen back into the game.

Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor will lead the team, and USC quarterback Matt Barkley will try to limit mistakes, and hand the ball off. The Ohio State defense will have to stop the run to win this game...

tOSU -21 USC - 17

No. 7 Penn State Nittany Lions vs Syracuse Orange 12:00 PM

Welcome to football, Greg Paulus. The Duke point guard turned Syracuse quarterback was a lackluster 19-31 in his debut. The Nittany Lions defense, led by linebacker Navarro Bowman will do some welcoming of their own in this game. The Lions recorded four sacks against Akron, and is looking to build on that momentum. Penn State quarterback Darryl Clark will have a big day again this week against the Orange defense.

Nittany Lions - 34 Orange - 10

Purdue Boilermakers @ Oregon Ducks 10:15 PM

Ah yes, Purdue! The other team that threw me off last week, but at least they won their game! Where did that rushing game come from? This game looked like a huge mismatch a week ago, but after the whooping of Oregon and Purdue's offensive explosion, it looks like it might be a good game. T

he Boiler defense will look to contain Duck's quarterback Jeremy Masoli, and the offense led by quarterback Joey Elliot and Running back Ralph Bolden, will look to make a mark in Autzen Stadium.

Boilers - 28 Ducks - 27

Wisconsin Badgers vs Fresno State Bulldogs 12:00 PM

The Badgers have had some off the field problems this week, as ten of their players have come down with flu-like symptoms. However, they will not have problems on the field as Fresno State comes to town looking to avenge last season's home loss to the Badgers.

Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien was solid in his debut, and will need to be again for a Badger offense that did not run the ball exceptionally well in its first game. Fresno State hopes for a repeat of last weeks 511 yard offensive outburst against an inexperienced Badger defense. The Badgers will win this one though, and Fresno State will return home empty, once again.

Badgers - 34 Bulldogs - 17

Look for the Big Ten to break out of the ESPN led weak conference bias in this week, with victories over USC, Notre Dame, and Oregon highlighting a perfect week.

Black and Blue Chicago Bears' Predictions

Carl Stine — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 02:06:19 -0400

The Chicago Bears enter this season with expectations almost as big as Terrell Owens' head.

The arrival of quarterback Jay Cutler and the emergence of running back Matt Forte last season are only two of the reasons the Bears are riding high.

While there are certainly some questions to be answered in the defensive secondary, the linebacker play and defensive line will be better than last season.

And as much as the Bears defense is maligned for having "too many players on the wrong side of 30", there are only three defensive players that are older than the big 3-0 Linebacker Brian Urlacher, end Adewale Ogunleye and end Alex Brown...

On the offensive side, for the Bears to be successful, they will have to find some receivers for Cutler to throw to other than Greg Olsen. Devin Hester has still not shown he can run a good route, and Earl Bennett is very inexperienced. Call the receivers young, but full of potential.

The Bears have some big games with teams not in their division, i.e. Steelers, Cardinals, Eagles, but the Bears' success this season will hinge on their play within the division. Here are my predictions as to how they will fare:

Green Bay Packers- @Lambeau Field 9/13, Soldier Field 12/13

When Lovie Smith came to Chicago, he promised the Bears would beat the Packers, and they have. From 1994-2003 the Packers won eighteen out of twenty meetings between these two teams, but since then Smith and the Bears have evened things up a little.

The Bears' revamped offense will will try to stop the Packers' new defense. Cutler will be effective and have big games against the Packers' new look 3-4. During the Bear's preseason game against the Broncos, Orlando Pace looked lost at times. Watch for the Packers to try and exploit the Bears' older offensive line.

Packers' quarterback Aaron Rodgers also will be out to prove that last season's numbers were no fluke. Rodgers threw for 4038 yards and had a 93.8 passer rating.

Matchup to watch: Bears' defensive front seven against the Pack's o-line. The only sure way to stop Rodgers from throwing the ball all over the field is to hit him before he throws.

Key to the games: The Bears' secondary, shaky at best, will be tested heavily in the first contest, and that game will set the pace for the whole season. Until the defensive secondary pulls it together, Rodgers will rip apart the Bears' defense, and the Packers will punish the Bears.

Prediction: Bears - 2 Packers - 0

Yes, a split, I can't really see the Bears losing the first game, and I think that momentum will be the start of a great season.

Detroit Lions - Soldier Field 10/4, @Ford Field 1/3/10

Rookie quarterback Mathew Stafford will spend much of his day on the grass, and the Bears' offense will have it's way with a young, inexperienced Lion's defense in both these games.

Matt Forte will have big days against the Lions, and the team that went 0-16 last season will finish this season 3-13.

The Lions have started to build a young, talented team, however, they are still too young and too inexperienced for a great season, especially against a team with as much offensive firepower as Chicago has.

Matchup to watch: Lion's cornerbacks and safeties on Bears receivers. As already mentioned, the youth movement in Detroit will be schooled by the Bears' offense.

Key to the games: Matt Forte...if he gets to the second level of the defense at all, the Lions are weak tacklers, and Forte looks a little quicker this season than last season.

Prediction: Bears-2 Lions-0

The Bears will win both of these games, and clinch home field advantage for the playoffs in the game Jan. 3.

Minnesota Vikings - @ the Metrodome 11/29, Soldier Field 12/28

The Vikings acquisition of Brett Favre was a big deal. How big? Big enough that the Vikes will be tied with the Bears at the end of the season. Adrian Peterson is the best running back in the league, and the defense is scary good. Add Favre to the mix, and the Vikings are set.

Matchup to watch: Brian Urlacher and Brett Favre. Adrian Peterson and the Bears front seven. Matt Forte and the purple wall. Favre and the secondary. on and on the list goes.

Key to the games: Turnovers, plain and simple. Cutler and Favre both have the "gunslinger" mentality. Peterson led the league in fumbles(9) last season.

Prediction: Bears-1 Vikings-1

These teams will split this season, and both will make the playoffs.

The Bears will finish 5-1 in the division, especially if the defensive secondary is even a little bit good. Watch for high scoring games on both sides against Green Bay, high scores by the Bears against the Lions, and defensive battles against the Vikes...let the games begin.

Boise Statement in Boise City

Carl Stine — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:21:51 -0400

Last night the No. 14 Boise State Broncos served notice.

Their 19-8 throttling of the No. 16 Oregon Ducks, in front of a raucous crowd in Boise, let the rest of college football know that Boise State will once again be in the BCS hunt.

The only thing that didn't go Boise's way was Kyle Brotzman's kicking. He missed two field goals in the victory.

The Broncos were just the better team on Thursday night. The Bronco's quarterback, Kellen Moore threw for 197 yards and a touchdown against an Oregon team that was looking for a return to national prominence.

LeGarrette Blount was stopped for negative-five yards rushing on eight carries, a big part of the reason for the Boise win.

After the game, Boise Sate linebacker Byron Hout was jeering at Blount, and Blout hit him with a right cross that knocked Hout down.

Blount apologized after the game...

Boise State has now removed the only apparent roadblock to an undefeated season. The Broncos may have a battle with Nevada at the end of the season, and Tulsa and Bowling Green on the road are not gimmes.

However, while Florida is playing Charleston Southern, Ohio State is playing the Navy, and USC plays San Jose State, Boise State was playing the biggest game of their season, on day one.

Barring a let down in a game they should win this season, look for Boise State to be in the top 10 of the BCS at the end of the season.

Wisconsin Badgers Week One: Northern Illinois Huskies

Carl Stine — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:31:17 -0400

The Wisconsin Badgers enter the first game of the 2009-2010 campaign with several "or" issues.

With Junior Scott Tolzien and Freshman Curt Phillips listed as co-starters at quarterback, and Sophomore John Clay and Senior Zach Brown listed as co-starters at running back, the Badgers backfield is far from set in stone.

Week One of this season will help to solidify the offense, as well as test the defense.

The Badgers will be facing Coach Jerry Kill and the Northern Illinois Huskies.

The Huskies' defense was stout last season, ranking 5th in the country in passing defense, and 17th in overall defense, allowing only 298.46 total yards per game.

Key losses in the defensive secondary leave the Huskies trying to fill holes, and the loss of defensive end Larry English to the NFL draft and both starting tackles leave the front four suspect.

On the offensive side, returning starter at quarterback, Chandler Harnish, led the Huskies in both rushing and passing last season.

Starting running back Me'co Brown, and tight end Reed Cunningham, and the return of three starters along the offensive line, will be needed to improve on a sub par offensive effort last season.

Harnish threw for only 1,528 yards, or roughly the same amount as Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford's total after two games.

This game will be a litmus test for the Badgers front four, with end JJ Watt looking for a big debut, and defensive tackles Jeff Stehle, Patrick Butrym and the rest of the interior linemen looking to prove they can stop the running game consistently.

The Badgers will be led at quarterback by Tolzien, but Phillips will see someplaying time.

The thinking here, is that in the three non-conference games, either Tolzien will have to prove he is more than a game manager, or Phillips will have to prove he can stop throwing picks.

By the time Michigan State comes to town for the Big Ten season opener, the Badgers need some solidarity and consistency from the quarterback position. Phillips has more potential, both with his arm and his legs, but Tolzien is more reliable at this point.

John Clay and Zach Brown will probably both rush for over 100 yards in this game.

Brown has shown flashes of brilliance in practice, and Clay is a monster coming through the line for the tough yards. look for them to split snaps pretty evenly.

This game will be won by the Badgers is a big way, based on the fact that they just have too much offensive firepower for NIU to handle.

Throw tight ends Garrett Graham and Lance Kendricks, and wide receivers Nick Toon, David Gilreath, Isaac Anderson and Kyle Jefferson into the mix, and whoever starts at quarterback for the Badgers has a number of potential weapons.

What to Watch:

Can the Badgers' defensive front contain a mobile quarterback? On a smaller scale, this could be how the Badgers face Ohio State's Terrelle Pryor. How the line and linebackers contain Harnish will be an indication of how they will be able to contain Pryor.

Which quarterback will emerge? If the Badgers want to improve on last season's performance, they need a quarterback who can do more than be a game manager. Phillips provides the potential, and could be a four year starter, but Tolzien will not make mistakes. Which one will step up and be "the man".

Brett Bielema and his staff were notorious last year for yapping at the refs, and it helped lose them a game against Michigan State. Will they start coaching, get the players to tackle and run, instead of whining? This remains to be seen. Bielema has some slack, being the hand picked successor to Barry Alvarez, but if the Badgers struggle this season, he is in trouble.

How many yards will Clay and Brown rack up?

"Jump Around" at the beginning of the 4th quarter.

The Badgers will win this one 42-17, in a rushing battle.

Big Ten Football '09: Week One

Carl Stine — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:30:39 -0400

Week one of the Big Ten Football season is somewhat underwhelming. For a conference that needs desperately to win some big games and climb back into prominence, the scheduling is horrific.

Let's break down the full schedule and predictions for the first week of football.

Thursday, September 3
Indiana Hoosiers vs Eastern Kentucky Hilltoppers

Talk about a real ratings fest! Indiana will win this game based on the fact that Eastern Kentucky is just flat worse than they are.

There are not many teams one can say that about, but EKU is definitely one of them.

Indiana may be somewhat of a spoiler this season. Which Hoosier team will show up? The team that went to a bowl game in '07 behind the arm of quarterback Kellen Lewis?

Or will Mr. Hyde show up in the form of the same team that lost by a combined 100-22 score against Illinois and Iowa?

Regardless of what happens the rest of the season, the Hosiers will take this one away.

Watch for the Hoosier defense to step it up, especially the front seven.

IU - 24 EKU - 14

Saturday, September 5
Illinois Fighting Illini vs Missouri Tigers

Illinois is going to be scary good on offense this season. Every player that gained yards rushing last season is back.

Combine the rushing with quarterback Juice Williams propensity to pass or run, and the Illini are looking at a very explosive group. The Arrelious Benn and company will look to exploit a Missouri defense that ranked 117th in pass defense last season.

Missouri will not have a hard time replacing quarterback Chase Daniel, as Blaine Gabbert will take over the tossing chores. Gabbert has a cannon of an arm, and will make Illinois pay if anyone gets beat deep.

This will be Gabbert's first game as a starter, so expect a few mistakes.

Illini - 31 Mizzou - 10

Iowa Hawkeyes vs Northern Iowa Panthers

This will be one of the most lopsided games this week, as quarterback Ricky Stanzi and running back Jewel Hampton lead the Hawkeyes attack.

The Hawkeyes offensive line will punish Northern Iowa, and this game will be over by the end of the first quarter.

Iowa 41 - Northern Iowa - 14
Michigan Wolverines vs Western Michigan Broncos

It looks like Tate Forcier will start at quarterback for the Maize and Blue.

Forcier is a dual-threat quarterback, and will look to start of strong against the Broncos. Forcier needs to alleviate some of the pressure on his shoulders going into the season.

The defense will continue to use the 3-4 pattern, some key defensive linemen have to be replaced, but that will not effect the beating the Wolverines will provide.

Michigan 31 - Western Michigan 17

Michigan State Spartans vs Montana State Bobcats

Sparty will lay a whoopin' on the other MSU.

I gave the Bobcats six points simply because they may be in field goal range twice, and any points they can get they will take.

The Michigan State defense, led by linebackers Greg Jones and Eric Gordon, will dominate on the defensive side, and Keith Nichol, Kirk Cousins and friends will put up some huge numbers on offense.

Sparty 52 - Bobcats 6

Minnesota Golden Gophers @ Syracuse Orange

There is some drama in this game. Syracuse is likely to start Greg Paulus, transfer from Duke, at quarterback.

Paulus has owned the Big Ten over the course of his collegiate career, but that will end in this game.

Adam Weber has great field vision and a great group of receivers to throw too. Eric Decker will begin his campaign for All Big Ten in this game, as the Gophers will top the Orange.

The Gophers will also look to start improving on a Big Ten worst 104 yards per game rushing average.

Gophers 24 - Orange 21

Northwestern Wildcats vs Towson Tigers

Northwestern, the team that everybody is used to beating up, will start some beating of it's own against lowly Towson.

Navy clobbered the Tigers last season 41-13, so the Wildcats should have no problems.

Mike Kafka will headline a very talented backfield. With the loss of Tyrell Sutton, one would expect the Wildcat rushing game to suffer, but expect Stephen Simmons and Alex Daniel to pick up the slack.

Northwestern's defense is very stout, and Corey Wooton may have ten sacks in this game, and match his sack total from last season.

Northwestern 42 - Towson 13

The Ohio State Buckeyes vs Navy Midshipmen

Terrelle Pryor will come out throwing the ball, and Danny Herron will begin his campaign to be an elite Big Ten rusher as OSU will trounce Navy.

The Buckeyes defense, led by Thaddeus Gibson and Cameron Heyward will terrorize the Navy backfield, and force at least two fumbles.

tOSU 37 - Navy - 14

Penn State Nittany Lions vs Akron Zips

Navarro Bowman is a very skilled, very scary linebacker.

Akron quarterback Chris Jacquemain will have to run for his safety from Penn State's athletic front seven.

PSU will come out hitting on all cylinders in this one. Evan Royster and Darryl Clark will both be looking to begin a solid campaign in a big way.

Lions 54 - Zips 17

Purdue Boilermakers vs Toledo Rockets

Someone should lose the first week, and I picked Purdue, for the simple reason that they are terrible.

Toledo should be honored to get Purdue this season.

The defense was bad last year, and with quarterback Dustin Siller gone, Purdue has a controversy at the position to start the season.

I wish the Boilers luck this year, but they may be reminiscent of the Hoosier teams of bygone days more than the Joe Tiller led teams.

Toledo 21 - Boilers 17

Wisconsin Badgers vs Northern Illinois Huskies

This one could be a toughy for the Badgers.

Northern Illinois has been tough for Wisconsin in recent years. The badgers will look to solidify an offense that struggled mightily last season.

Quarterback Dustin Sherer will have a solid group of receivers to throw too, and super sophomore John Clay will run all over the field in this one.

the Huskies will hang tough in Madison, but the Badgers will be victorious.

Sconnie - 34 NIU 21

Not bad overall. The conference should have only one loss heading into the big second week.

Top Heisman Candidates Not Named Tim, Sam, or Colt

Carl Stine — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:38:26 -0400

We are all aware of that Tebow guy, and we know that the Big Twelve's "no defense" policy is still in place. This means the top three candidates going into the season are pretty much set, and barring Tebow breaking a leg and an earthquake at the Red River Shootout, one of those three will walk away with the Heisman. But what about the other guys? Who has a shot at stealing Colt's thunder? And who might slide in on the back of media publicity? Enter my list of top candidates to win the Heisman, including "The Giant-Killer", "The Sledgehammer", and "Happy Feet".

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Jay Cutler: I Like The Way You Move

Carl Stine — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:47:02 -0400

Much has been made of Jay Cutler's laser arm. The number of man crushes in Chicago has increased exponentially as Cutler continues to showcase his cannon in training camp.

However, no matter how much one wants to escape from the doubts and lingering fears, the question still remains, will Cutler improve the Bears' receivers, or will he tank without Brandon Marshall and co.?

I have heard these questions argued back and forth until I am almost as sick of them as I am of the smarmy look on Roy Williams' face.

However, after watching replay after replay and highlight after highlight of J-Cutty in Denver, I am firmly convinced that Cutler will be the catalyst for a huge season offensively in Chicago, and the reasons, ladies and gentlemen, are his legs.

Yes, his legs.

Cutler's ability to scramble will help take some pressure off of the offensive line.

The most challenging part of playing in the defensive secondary is to make sure your assignment is covered for 3-4 seconds. If it goes any longer than that, it becomes easier for the receiver to get open, and more difficult for the defender to stay in position.

Cutler loved to throw to Denver's tight end Tony Scheffler, and several of the plays that caught my attention were after Cutler rolled out or scrambled.

Most of Kyle Orton's throws were out of a simple three step drop, and the play was all about timing. Ditto for Grossman.

Cutler will create space and time for his receivers to get downfield and get open.

He also brings a new dimension to the playaction, as freezing the safety allows Devin Hester or any other receiver to get downfield behind the defense for the longball, also the rollout is a viable option with his mobility.

I suppose that my point is, Cutler will make the Bears' receivers better, just like he made Scheffler, Marshall and Royal better.

Top Ten '09 Walker Award Hopefuls

Carl Stine — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 00:46:47 -0400

The Doak Walker award is given yearly to the best running back in the NCAA. The watch list for this prestigious award was announced 8/4/09. The semifinalists will be announced November 11th, and the finalists will be selected Novermber 23rd, with the winner announced December 10th. The award ..."is the only major collegiate award that requires all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate within one year of other students of the same classification." Among the players that have won the award are: Darren Mcfadden '06, '07; Larry Johnson '02; LaDainian Tomlinson '00; and Ricky Williams '97, '98. The award is named for the great Southern Methodist University running back, and Heisman trophy winner, Doak Walker. I have compiled a lost of my top ten cadidates to win this award, based on performance both on and off the field, and taking into consideration the level of competition played. This does not always matter to the selection committee, as in 2000 LT won after playing a very weak schedule.

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Welcome to the Big Time: Best Freshman Performances 2000-2008

Carl Stine — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:47:20 -0400

Freshman. The very word gives the impression of something original and new. What is it with freshman that impresses us so? Is it the idea of a younger, less experienced player outperforming the veteran? In the current college football environment, freshman are gaining more and more importance. With players leaving early more frequently, the young players are given the opportunity to step up and prove themselves. In this list I have compiled several outstanding performances by freshman since 2000. I am aware that some have probably been omitted, but the list had to be cut off somewhere. I tried to include at least one freshman from each of the 6 BCS conferences. Enjoy!

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