College Football 2011: Picking the Winner of Every Big Ten Conference Game
It's one thing to rank the teams according to how you think they're going to finish. It's something else entirely to predict every conference game at the first part of June.
The chase to the first Big Ten title game should be a fun one. From the battle for bragging rights between last year's three conference co-champions, to the arrival of the conference's newest member, to all of the drama surrounding one of the most storied programs in the nation; there's a lot going on in the Big Ten this year.
Let's roll 'em all down from October 1 to November 26.
Illinois vs. Northwestern
1 of 49
October 1, 2011
Illinois is coming off a somewhat resurgent season that saw the Fighting Illini finish at 7-6, including a 38-14 victory over Baylor in the Texas Bowl. The Illini saw their defense improve from dead last in the conference in 2009 to fifth in the conference in 2010.
Arguably, the toughest contest in their out-of-conference slate is a home date with Arizona State. That may not sound bad, but remember that the Sun Devils went toe to toe with one-loss Wisconsin, played as well as anyone (not named Auburn) with Oregon and lost to Stanford by a measly four points.
It's not unthinkable that Illinois will come into this contest with a loss already on its record.
Northwestern meanwhile, is likewise coming off a 7-6 2010 season that saw them lose to Texas Tech 38-45 in the TicketCity Bowl.
The Wildcats made it to where they were last year thanks to an offense that ranked fifth in the Big Ten. That offense was led by QB Dan Persa until he ruptured an Achilles late in the season, causing him to miss the last two regular-season games as well as the bowl match.
Persa will be back to lead this team again. Will he be as good as he was before the injury or will there be some lingering concern over that Achilles injury that will slow him down?
Coming into this one, Northwestern will have played two of its first three games on the road against teams that finished 7-6 last year (Boston College and Army). As with Illinois, it's very possible that Northwestern will come into this contest with its perfect record already lost.
The Verdict
Last year, Illinois defeated Northwestern 48-27. However, that game was played a mere week after Persa was injured against Iowa. How might it have gone differently with Persa on the field?
This time around, the contest comes at the front of the season, and Persa should be healthy. Despite the improvement in Illinois' defense, Persa will be the difference in this one.
Northwestern 28, Illinois 24
Indiana vs. Penn State
2 of 49
October 1, 2011
Indiana finished last season with a 5-7 record that probably should have been better. The Hoosiers offense was somewhat mediocre and their defense was terrible.
Still, they lost to Michigan by only a touchdown, dropped to Northwestern by only a field goal and lost to Iowa by just five points. As poor as they were statistically speaking, they were just 15 points from going 8-4 on the year.
Bill Lynch is gone from Bloomington and former Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson takes over to try and shore up some of Indiana's issues. On the other hand, QB Ben Chappell is gone.
Penn State meanwhile, is coming off a 7-6 campaign that ended with a 24-37 loss to Florida in the Outback Bowl.
The Nittany Lions' best wins came against Michigan and Northwestern while they were beaten handily by Illinois, Iowa and Ohio State. They played a close match in a losing effort to Michigan State, but never really had a "good win" in the entire 2010 campaign.
As with last season, there's a quarterback controversy of sorts in State College, Pennsylvania. Will Robert Bolden return to the post he held at the beginning of 2010 as the starting QB, or will it be Matt McGloin, who led the team down the stretch last year?
Or, could it be someone else entirely?
The Verdict
Penn State had the fourth-best defense in the conference last year and it should only be better this year. Meanwhile, Indiana's offense will struggle to do what it did a year ago without Ben Chappell under center.
Sorry, Hoosiers fans. Wilson will have this team much improved, but don't expect it over night and don't expect it to translate into a win over a team that could challenge for the Leaders Division title.
Penn State 33, Indiana 13
Michigan vs. Minnesota
3 of 49
October 1, 2011
The three-year nightmare known as the "Rich Rod era" is over in Ann Arbor. Brady Hoke is in town and preparing to make the Wolverines relevant on both the Big Ten and national stages again.
In Rodriguez's final year at Michigan, the Wolverines finished 7-6, which included a 14-52 embarrassment at the hands of Mississippi State in the Gator Bowl. Their offense last year was the best in the conference, but their defense was the absolute worst.
Just how much can that defense improve in only one year and can the offense retain its position at the top under a new regime?
Their out-of-conference schedule is alternately tough and weak. On the weak side, the Wolverines get Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan from the Mid-American Conference. On the tougher side, they have to take on a Notre Dame team that is continuing to improve. They also face Hoke's former team, San Diego State, who went 9-4 last year.
Minnesota was pretty well in shambles last year. The Golden Gophers finished the season with a paltry 3-9 record and saw their head coach, Tim Brewster, canned midway through the year.
The Gophers finished as strongly as could be expected by upsetting both Illinois and Iowa in consecutive weeks. Still, that does little to make up for a nine-game losing streak that included dropping to FCS opponent South Dakota.
Jerry Kill comes in from Northern Illinois to try and right the ship in Minneapolis, but he's got a long way to go with this group. Not only does he have a rough 3-9 record to overcome, but he'll have to do it without three-year starting QB Adam Weber.
The Gophers' out-of-conference schedule includes an opening week trip to USC and a showdown with Miami (OH), who finished last year with a 10-4 record and a victory over Kill's Northern Illinois team.
The Verdict
Both teams are breaking in new coaches and all of the struggles that such a transition can entail. However, Michigan has more talent to work with and a better record to build from. Michigan defensive coordinator Greg Mattison will do more with the Wolverine defense than Kill can do with all of Minnesota's team.
Michigan 31, Minnesota 10
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Ohio State vs. Michigan State
4 of 49
October 1, 2011 (Must-See Game)
The problems surrounding Ohio State have been well documented. Jim Tressel's resignation Monday really doesn't affect this contest though. He was already slated to be serving the last of a five-game suspension and wouldn't have been available for this contest.
The Buckeyes are coming off of their sixth consecutive (won or shared) Big Ten title. They finished 2010 with a 12-1 record that saw them finally get a win over the SEC in a bowl game when they defeated Arkansas 31-26 in the Sugar Bowl.
During this contest, the Buckeyes will not only be without Jim Tressel, they'll be without Terrell Pryor, Dan Herron and DeVier Posey. How will Luke Fickell handle not having three huge performers against a Michigan State team that shared the Big Ten title with his Buckeyes last year?
The Spartans have lost two-time All-American Greg Jones and his counterpart Eric Gordon at linebacker. They've also lost safety Marcus Hyde and CB Chris L. Rucker.
As mentioned, they're coming off a conference co-championship that came with an 11-2 season. Unfortunately, that fantastic season also included a 7-49 thumping at the hands of Alabama in the Capital One Bowl.
The Spartans may be missing some very big pieces on the defensive side of the ball, but their offense should be clicking. QB Kirk Cousins returns, as do running backs Edwin Baker, LeVeon Bell and Larry Caper. WR B.J. Cunningham also returns to make the passing game nearly as dangerous as the running game.
The Verdict
I know Ohio State generally retools and keeps on notching off Big Ten championships, but it won't be so easy this year. Not only will the Buckeyes still be suffering from the five-game suspension of several star players, but they had tremendous turnover on the defensive side of the ball.
Michigan State's offense will exploit the defensive deficiencies and test Fickell's ability to make in-game adjustments.
Michigan State 27, Ohio State 21
Wisconsin vs. Nebraska
5 of 49
October 1, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Wisconsin is coming back from a bittersweet Rose Bowl season. On the one hand, it racked up an impressive 11-2 season that included a victory over Ohio State.
On the other, the fabulous season ended with a 19-21 loss to TCU in the Rose Bowl.
The Badgers' third-best Big Ten offense brings back star runners James White and Montee Ball. WR Nick Toon also comes back for his senior season, and should have a great year, if he can stay healthy.
Brett Bielema's offense does have some questions to answer though. QB Scott Tolzien was one of the most efficient passers in the league last year, but has graduated. The offensive line takes some hits with Gabe Carimi and John Moffitt—both All-Americans last year.
Nebraska is coming into its new conference hungry to prove itself. Bo Pelini directed his team to a 10-4 record that included going 2-2 against ranked opponents. The downside is that it ended that campaign with a 7-19 clunker against Washington in the Holiday Bowl.
The Cornhuskers bring back QB Taylor Martinez to lead their attack. RB Roy Helu Jr. has moved on to the NFL, but Rex Burkhead rushed for 951 yards and seven touchdowns last year while splitting carries with Helu. He is more than just a replacement back.
The Husker defense has been very good under Pelini and returns DT Jared Crick to help keep that line strong. The secondary takes some hits, losing CB Prince Amukamara, safety DeJon Gomes and Eric Hagg. However, it does return CB Alfonso Dennard.
This is Nebraska's first test in the new Big Ten, its first big-name opponent within the conference and it's a road game. This will tell us a lot about where the 'Huskers fit into their new conference.
The Verdict
If this was last year's Wisconsin versus this year's Nebraska, it would be even tougher to call. However, I worry a little about the strength of the Badgers offensive line with the losses they've taken.
Losing Tolzien is bigger than many expect, too. Don't look for all of the pieces to be in place this early in the season.
Nebraska 20, Wisconsin 17
Indiana (0-1) vs. Illinois (0-1)
6 of 49
October 8, 2011
Both of these programs come into this contest at 0-1 in the conference (hereafter, assuming that all previous predictions are correct).
Illinois' Nathan Scheelhaase may have been out-shined by Northwestern's Dan Persa the week before, but will he be out-shined again by Indiana's QB?
The Verdict
No. Maybe it would be better presented as—it doesn't matter. Illinois' defense will be more than the battered Hoosiers offense can handle.
Meanwhile, Scheelhaase and his minions will work over a Hoosiers defense that should be improved, but won't be improved enough.
Illinois 28, Indiana 17
Penn State (1-0) vs. Iowa (0-0)
7 of 49
October 8, 2011
Iowa comes into this thing with a ton of losses on both sides of the ball.
Gone is three-year starting QB Ricky Stanzi, all-time Hawkeye leading receiver, Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, safeties Tyler Sash and Brett Greenwood and most of the defensive line.
The Hawkeyes finished 2010 with an 8-5 record that was far less than expected, but did get a nice 27-24 victory over Missouri in the Insight Bowl.
Still, the Hawkeyes bring back moderate experience across the defense, have a strong offensive line and return RB Marcus Coker and WR Marvin McNutt. Their offense should shine, even if their defense takes a step backward.
Penn State has had a rough go against Iowa since joining the Big Ten. Regardless of location, Iowa seems to just have the Lions' number.
Does that mean the Hawkeyes will have it again?
The Verdict
Conventional wisdom would dictate that the Nittany Lions will finally break the Hawkeyes curse and get a win in front of the "White Out" crowd. However, conventional wisdom rarely means anything when we're talking about Iowa against Penn State.
This will be a battle of strength on strength. Iowa's offense will run into Penn State's defense. The Hawkeyes line, paving the way for Coker will make the difference in a battle that will be reminiscent of 2008.
Iowa 23, Penn State 21
Northwestern (1-0) vs. Michigan (1-0)
8 of 49
October 8, 2011
Both teams should come into this match still looking perfect in conference play. It'll be a battle of two extraordinary quarterbacks who are very mobile, but also very good with their arms.
Perhaps the biggest question for Michigan, aside from the play of its defense, will be how well Denard Robinson re-adjusts to playing under center in a pro-style-ish system. Luckily for the Wolverines, Northwestern's defense was only slightly better than Michigan's last year.
Dan Persa may not find the sledding quite as easy against Michigan as it was in 2008 (the last time these two teams played) when Northwestern won 21-14. Of course, Persa wasn't even the starting QB back then, so he wouldn't notice the difference.
The Verdict
DC Greg Mattison will do wonders with Michigan's defense. Will it be at full strength already this coming year? It would be a stretch to think so, but it should still be markedly improved.
That defense will be the difference in this game. Both offenses will be tough. Both quarterbacks will be special. Who can stop the other, though?
For my money, Michigan will be better prepared to stop Persa than Northwestern will be to stop Robinson.
Michigan 31, Northwestern 20
Purdue (0-0) vs. Minnesota (0-1)
9 of 49
October 8, 2011
Purdue gets an off week while most of the other teams (except Iowa, who also has a bye) kick-start their Big Ten campaigns. In the second week of October, the Boilermakers toss their hats officially in the ring for the Big Ten conference chase.
Last season, injuries ruined what should have been a special season. Miami (FL) transfer, Robert Marve, went out with an injury after only four games. RB Ralph Bolden was lost before the season even started. Others from various positions found themselves sitting on the sidelines watching their teammates try to salvage the season for Purdue.
Marve is back and ready to compete for the starting QB position again. He'll have to fight off Rob Henry though, who turned out to be quite the dual-threat quarterback himself. Bolden will be back and will have little competition as Dan Dierking and Keith Carlos both graduated after last season.
Al-Terek McBurse, after threatening to leave the program, has moved to WR, adding tremendous flash to a pass attack that took an uncharacteristic back seat to the run game last year.
This battle has become something of a "basement-dwellers ball" the last several years. Both teams have flirted with having the tools for greatness, and both have fallen terribly short.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record already, Minnesota is in shambles. Barring any further injuries, Purdue should be about as good as it's going to get.
The two teams' defenses were compatible statistically speaking last year. Don't expect major changes on that front this year.
The Verdict
Purdue has something to prove. It has some talents that it hasn't had in a while. If the Boilermakers don't do something with it soon, it'll become increasingly more difficult to compete with the other Big Ten teams for talent on the recruiting trail.
They have the tools. They have everyone back. They have the edge.
Purdue 27, Minnesota 16
Nebraska (1-0) vs. Ohio State (0-1)
10 of 49
October 8, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Nebraska could be coming off a tremendous opening to its Big Ten schedule with a win over conference co-champion Wisconsin when it hosts another conference co-champion. As far as schedules go, it doesn't open any tougher than this.
Ohio State meanwhile, could well be reeling from a letdown loss to Michigan State that sets the tone for an even bigger letdown of a season. The Buckeyes should have the suspended players from "Tattoo Gate" back for this game, unless the ongoing investigation of Terrelle Pryor leads to an extension of his sentence.
There's no doubt that Nebraska will bring every horse in its stable to make the biggest possible splash in its new conference.
The question is how badly will Ohio State be hurting from this NCAA mess and can it put the pieces together quickly enough?
The Verdict
I know that a lot of Ohio State football fans believe that their team is going to do exactly what it has done for the last decade. It's going to just reload and do it all again.
History is on their side in this argument. As I noted in another article, there are fans who weren't even teenagers yet the last time the Buckeyes failed to win (or share) a Big Ten title.
That doesn't mean that it will always be that way and I believe this year is the beginning of a slight downward trend for the Buckeyes. Not only are they dealing with all of the negative off-field issues, but they have a tremendous amount of turnover, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
It's in Lincoln, the Buckeyes are suffering a million different wounds and the 'Huskers have more to prove here.
Nebraska 24, Ohio State 20
Illinois (1-1) vs. Ohio State (0-2)
11 of 49
October 15, 2011
Ohio State enters this game in very unfamiliar territory. It's a rare year that the Buckeyes lose two games within conference play, but rarer still that they open a conference season at 0-2.
Illinois meanwhile, won't be having the greatest start to its Big Ten schedule either, but will at least come in on a winning note.
This one is in the Illini's house, but this is Ohio State we're talking about. Can they make it a replay of 2007 when they defeated the Buckeyes 28-21 in Columbus?
The Verdict
While Nebraska may have a gruesome opening to its conference schedule, Ohio State's isn't much easier. Think what you will about Michigan State, but the Spartans are capable of playing with the Buckeyes on a good day and should match them fairly well on the field.
Following that up with a very hungry Nebraska team is no cakewalk.
Now, the real Ohio State starts to show up again. Its talent is deeper than pretty much every other Big Ten team and Luke Fickell is well versed in how things work in Columbus. This team won't fall completely off the map just because there are some unflattering things happening around the program.
With or without Pryor and Tressel, the Bucks are too strong for this year's version of the Illini.
Ohio State 28, Illinois 17
Wisconsin (0-1) vs. Indiana (0-2)
12 of 49
October 15, 2011
Wisconsin may have been shaken slightly by Nebraska's strong start to its Big Ten campaign. A bye week serves to remind the Badgers that the conference race is wide open and nothing has been permanently damaged. It also served to give them a chance to regroup and focus on the things that went wrong against Nebraska.
Indiana, despite having Kevin Wilson on the sideline, is still battling with a dreadful lack of depth and overall talent. The Hoosiers attitude may be much improved, but they just haven't had the tools to get the kind of results they're wanting.
It doesn't help them any that this game is played in Madison.
The Verdict
Wisconsin's Achilles heel may be a heavy reliance on a running game that doesn't have last year's offensive line to run behind. However, Indiana just doesn't have a defensive front capable of pushing around the Badgers O-line and getting to the runners behind the line.
Wisconsin will wear down the Hoosiers defense and win a home contest in solid enough fashion.
Wisconsin 31, Indiana 13
Iowa (1-0) vs. Northwestern (1-1)
13 of 49
October 15, 2011
Iowa comes into this battle off a thrilling victory over the Nittany Lions while Northwestern comes to Iowa City trying to rebound from an equally thrilling loss to Michigan.
Northwestern has beaten Iowa each of the last three meetings and four of the last five. Much as Iowa has had Penn State's number, the Wildcats have thwarted the Hawkeyes at virtually every turn lately.
The key for Iowa in this will be slowing down Dan Persa. For Northwestern, it'll be stopping Marcus Coker.
The Verdict
I have no problem saying that Iowa has the better overall team compared to Northwestern. Then again, Penn State generally has the better overall team than Iowa, and that doesn't seem to matter much.
It won't matter much here again.
To beat Northwestern takes discipline and speed on defense, particularly at the linebacker position. It also requires an offense that can consistently put together sustained drives to wear down the Wildcats D.
The offense should be able to do its part, but can the defense perform as well? I'm not convinced yet. I'll go with recent history on this one, until I see something from Iowa to make me believe it can out-gun this spread.
Northwestern 24, Iowa 20
Michigan State (1-0) vs. Michigan (2-0)
14 of 49
October 15, 2011 (Must-See Game)
This is always a tremendous game. It's an in-state rivalry between two teams in the same conference, and now in the same division. There's no love lost between the Spartans and Wolverines and it shows on the field as well as on the message boards.
The Spartans have won the last three meetings, but prior to that, the series went strongly in Michigan's favor. Michigan State is trying desperately to build on last year's amazing run, but would sacrifice several wins to get this one.
The Verdict
I hate to keep harping on the Spartans. I actually like this program and greatly respect what Mark Dantonio has done in East Lansing. I just can't help but think that they were somewhat exposed last season, despite their tremendous record.
They weren't quite what they were cracked up to be, in my book.
They're suffering some dangerous losses on the defensive side of the ball, while the Wolverines defense will be stepping up this year. This will largely be a battle of the offenses.
In that kind of battle, Michigan wins.
Michigan 34, Michigan State 27
Penn State (1-1) vs. Purdue (1-0)
15 of 49
October 15, 2011
These two teams haven't faced each other since 2008. However, 2006, 2007 and 2008 all went in Penn State's favor.
Of course, that was long before the Matt McGloin/Robert Bolden controversy at quarterback. That was before QB Robert Marve and RB Ralph Bolden took the field for Purdue.
Penn State comes into this game off a tough loss to Iowa while Purdue comes in off a ho-hum win over Minnesota.
Considering what's going on in both divisions at this early stage of the season, both teams are still squarely in the conference title hunt.
The Verdict
If Marve and Bolden both stay healthy, the Boilermakers really could give "superior" teams a much tougher fight than might be expected.
However, Penn State's defense should be even better than last year's rating of fourth best in the Big Ten. Purdue's seventh-rated defense (within the conference) just won't cut it down the stretch when the Lions put lids on Marve, Henry and Bolden.
Penn State 27, Purdue 13
Purdue (2-1) vs. Illinois (1-2)
16 of 49
October 22, 2011
Purdue might be worrying a little bit that its season is already hanging on the brink, to a degree. The Boilermakers only come in with one conference loss, but there's a lot of season left to play and they can't let things get out of hand too early.
Illinois meanwhile, is in an even worse boat. With two conference losses already on their record, one more likely puts the Illini firmly out of the conference race and we're not even out of October.
Both teams lost their last matches to quality opponents (Penn State and Ohio State respectively). That doesn't do much to assuage the urgency both should be feeling already.
The Verdict
Illinois' defense was improved last season, but how much more improved will it be this year? Purdue's offense should be more balanced than a year ago, while its defense shouldn't be much different.
When the Boilermakers have a smattering of decent talent, they tend to find a way to pull out a big win somewhere. Beating the Illini may not sound like a big win, but for this point in the season, it's plenty big enough.
Hey, not everyone outside of Indiana and Minnesota beats the Boilers.
Purdue 24, Illinois 23
Iowa (1-1) vs. Indiana (0-3)
17 of 49
October 22, 2011
The Hawkeyes are coming off yet another disappointing loss to Northwestern while Indiana is wallowing at the very bottom of the Big Ten standings.
Does that mean this game is automatically a "win" for Iowa? Not necessarily.
Last year, Iowa sneaked out a 18-13 victory over the Hoosiers while the year before, it took a major late-game comeback to make the win appear easy at 42-24. Both games were exceptionally close for most of the four quarters, and both times Indiana had an opportunity to put the Hawkeyes away.
This time around, the Hoosiers have a strong motivator working their sidelines and there should be marked improvements on both sides of the ball. On the other hand, they've lost some key talent that made those close contests with Iowa possible.
The Verdict
I'm sorely tempted to call this one in Indiana's favor. Given how narrowly the Hawkeyes escaped the last couple of seasons, even moderate improvement on the part of the Hoosiers should be enough to change their fortunes.
However, Iowa plays a lot of close games. That's kind of the Hawkeyes' style. It's not necessarily that the Hoosiers were as good as Iowa so much as Iowa played to the level of its opponents, and will likely continue to do so.
I expect the Hawkeyes to keep this one much closer than it should be, but find a way to pull it out in the end, as they usually do.
Iowa 24, Indiana 20
Michigan State (1-1) vs. Wisconsin (1-1)
18 of 49
October 22, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Just because both teams have a loss within the conference, doesn't mean they're not very good teams and doesn't mean that they're not firmly in the chase for the title. That's just the way things are likely going to shake out this season.
The Spartans may have suffered a loss to the Wolverines, but they'll be poised to strike back quickly and re-assert themselves as a serious threat within the conference. Wisconsin may have dropped to Nebraska, but they're still the team to beat in the Leaders Division and should be able to beat virtually anyone in the conference.
This is yet another showdown between two of last season's three co-champions and both teams have something to prove.
The Verdict
While Wisconsin has a trio of talented running backs, its real strength this year will likely be its defense, unless the offensive line pleasantly surprises. Meanwhile, the offense will undoubtedly be Michigan State's strength.
So, to use an already over-used metaphor, this is a battle between the unstoppable force and the immovable object. Which will prevail?
It should be an exciting showdown and both teams will get in some licks, but at the end of the day, I like Wisconsin's defense holding down Michigan State's offense better than I do the other way around.
Wisconsin 20, Michigan State 17
Minnesota (0-2) vs. Nebraska (2-0)
19 of 49
October 22, 2011
With or without Jerry Kill, Minnesota is having a tough time of things. The Gophers fighting to stay out of the Big Ten cellar and any hopes they may have had at a bowl game are quickly flying out the window.
Nebraska meanwhile, is struggling its way through a brutal schedule, but has so far come through unscathed. There are still some tough matches ahead of them, but for the moment, the 'Huskers are the cream of the crop.
So, how much trouble will Minnesota give them?
The Verdict
The answer to that question is "not much." That is, unless Nebraska falls asleep on this game the same way it did Washington in its bowl game last December. Don't forget that the Cornhuskers do have Michigan State on tap and could be looking ahead and overlooking the Gophers.
At this point, I really don't think it matters that much. Minnesota isn't as good as Washington and Nebraska could probably win while being half asleep.
Nebraska 31, Minnesota 10
Northwestern (2-1) vs. Penn State (2-1)
20 of 49
October 22, 2011
These two teams are in opposite divisions, but could come into this contest with identical conference records. Neither wants to give up what narrow edge they may hold over their conference counterparts.
Penn State has the depth and a legend for a coach. Northwestern has a spitfire for a coach that often finds ways to overcome a lack of depth.
The Verdict
Penn State has won the last three meetings between these two schools. Last year, the margin was by 14 points and it's pretty safe to say that it wasn't Penn State's best year.
Joe Paterno has little trouble defending Pat Fitzgerald's schemes and Fitzy just doesn't have the talent to hold off Joe's horde for long.
Let's chalk another "W" up for old Joe Pa, though the domination might not be as evident as some years.
Penn State 28, Northwestern 17
Penn State (3-1) vs. Illinois (1-3)
21 of 49
October 29, 2011
These two teams are on near-opposite ends of the spectrum. Penn State will be on a two-game win streak and will be at the front of the Leaders Division. Illinois could be on a three-game losing streak and fighting for bowl position.
Last year, Illinois shocked a Penn State team that was struggling to find an offense that worked. That 13-33 loss for the Lions isn't necessarily indicative of what is happening in the program, so much as indicative of what was happening in the program.
It's in Happy Valley. It'll be a White Out. It might be a different outcome.
The Verdict
Joe Paterno has been around this game a year or two. He's seen a few ups and downs. Do you think he's going to allow the offensive woes and quarterback inconsistencies of last year derail his program again this year?
I don't think so.
Whoever ends up taking the snaps, there will be plenty of talent around them and last year's issues will be worked out. Count on it.
Illinois should.
Penn State 27, Illinois 17
Indiana (0-4) vs. Northwestern (2-2)
22 of 49
October 29, 2011
So far, Indiana has been held winless in the Big Ten. To no one's real surprise, the Hoosiers are out of the conference title race. That doesn't mean they have nothing left to fight for. Nor does it mean that they have nothing left to fight with.
The last three meetings between the Hoosiers and Wildcats have been extremely close. Indiana won in 2008 by a score of 21-19. In 2009, it swung Northwestern's way 29-28 and in 2010 the Wildcats topped the Hoosiers 20-17.
Dan Persa may be the most talented quarterback in the Big Ten (or at least in the top two), but how improved will the rest of the team be? The Hoosiers should be better almost across the board.
Consider also that the Wildcats have been in some real dogfights up to this point. They'll have won some, but lost some as well. Up next for the Wildcats is Nebraska, so this sets up to be a trap game, if they're not careful.
The Verdict
I loath to say that Kevin Wilson will come to the Big Ten and roll zips in the win column. One of his key priorities for this year is to win the close games, rather than let them slip away.
Here in front of his Hoosiers team is an opponent that doesn't necessarily bury them with talent and that they have recently been playing very close with. His change of attitude will finally start to pay some dividends and here's where it starts.
Indiana 24, Northwestern 21
Minnesota (0-3) vs. Iowa (2-1)
23 of 49
October 29, 2011
For years, this rivalry took place during the last week of the season. Floyd of Rosedale (a bronze pig trophy) passed hands in heated battles between two bordering states as the final hurrah to each team's seasons.
Now, it has been supplanted by other opponents in the new conference alignment. So be it. That doesn't mean it will lose much of its draw.
Last year, hapless Minnesota upended struggling Iowa in a real disappointing performance for the Hawkeyes that was only fitting for their disappointing season. It was one of only three wins for the Gophers, but it was a dagger through Hawkeye hearts.
Can they repeat again this year?
The Verdict
With all due respect to Minnesota, last year was more about Iowa giving up than it was about Minnesota stepping up. Yes, the Golden Gophers played a superior football game, but largely because Iowa played an inferior football game. Think about it a little. It makes sense, trust me.
Don't expect Iowa to let up again; not with this much season left to play and not when they're still in the conference title hunt.
Iowa will wear down Minnesota's defense and exact a little revenge for last season's meltdown.
Iowa 34, Minnesota 17
Michigan (3-0) vs. Purdue (2-1)
24 of 49
October 29, 2011
On paper, this looks like a decent match. Michigan is rolling out to an early season lead in the Legends Division (tied with Nebraska) while Purdue is keeping within a step of the front-runners of the same division.
Both teams should have decent-to-stellar offenses. The defenses will be the question mark all season long.
The Verdict
This isn't Rich Rodriguez's Michigan. Their defense won't be as inept as it was the last three years. No, it won't be the top of the league either, but it won't be at the bottom.
Purdue will put up a fight, but this isn't likely the "big win" they're going to secure for the season, if they ever manage to do so this year.
Michigan 45, Purdue 28
Nebraska (3-0) vs. Michigan State (1-2)
25 of 49
October 29, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Nebraska is back in the fire. After surviving Ohio State and Wisconsin, then getting a week off and a "softer" opponent in Minnesota, they're back to taking on former conference co-champions.
Can they keep the momentum rolling?
Michigan State has already suffered a couple of letdowns. They're not about to give up on the division race without a fight and they know full well that they can earn a very nice New Year's Day bowl if they can turn things around and get back on track.
Their offense will still be rolling. Will their defense be coming around?
The Verdict
As good as Nebraska may be, it's awfully tough to predict them to go undefeated against all three of last season's co-champions. It's not impossible, but it's tough to predict.
At the same time, while it's not at all impossible for Michigan State to take a big step backward, it's tough to imagine them losing to every tough team that comes their way. They're not going to be that bad...at all.
This is where Nebraska stumbles and where the Spartans get back on track.
Michigan State 23, Nebraska 21
Ohio State (1-2) vs. Wisconsin (2-1)
26 of 49
October 29, 2011 (Must-See Game)
This isn't how most Ohio State fans saw this season playing out. It's been eons since they've had only one win three games into a conference schedule. Have they ever had that kind of record?
Their road hasn't been light and the problems facing them have plagued them more than many thought possible.
Wisconsin, to this point, has had just one letdown. Pretty much, it's a repeat of last year, only with some very big pieces missing.
This is the final battle between last season's co-champs. Last chance for bragging rights in 2011.
The Verdict
How many times can Ohio State lose in one season? How many times can Wisconsin dodge bullets with the holes they may have on the offensive line?
Ohio State will still be able to beat most teams in the Big Ten. They'll still have the talent to beat Wisconsin.
However, Wisconsin's defense won't make it easy on them and their trio of backs will keep the Buckeye defense on its toes.
This should be an epic battle, but Wisconsin is one of the teams capable of beating Ohio State and will do it again.
Wisconsin 20, Ohio State 17
Ohio State (1-3) vs. Indiana (1-4)
27 of 49
November 5, 2011
Who would possibly think that Ohio State and Indiana could enter November with the same conference record? Think it's unlikely?
Again, Ohio State has had a tough road to get here. Most of their opponents have been conference contenders. Indiana has had a slightly easier road to their mediocre record.
The Verdict
Okay, enough Ohio State bashing. The Buckeyes are much too talented to stay this low for very long. Sure, they've suffered some losses and they've dealt with some bad drama. And yes, they'll have a different head man on the sidelines.
Still, the talent they're getting is night-and-day better than the talent Indiana is capable of fielding at this time. They're not going to get blindsided by a team like the Hoosiers. Not at this point in the season.
Ohio State 38, Indiana 17
Iowa (3-1) vs. Michigan (4-0)
28 of 49
November 5, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Under head coach Kirk Ferentz, Iowa has had a knack for hanging around in the conference title race, even when it shouldn't. The Hawkeyes also have a knack for playing exceptionally tough against tough competitors.
Michigan, by this point, is experiencing something of a revival. It's undefeated in conference play and no one is pointing out the fact that most of those wins have come against lower-tier teams, with the exception of Michigan State.
Now they're getting into the meat of their schedule. How will they hang with the bigger boys in the conference chase (and yes, Iowa is one of those "bigger boys," as long as they keep throwing their hat in the conference title race).
The Verdict
This one is really tough to predict. On the one hand, Iowa has won the last two meetings.
On the other, they haven't exactly been blowouts (30-28 and 38-28 respectively). A slightly better defense on Michigan's part may have swayed the outcome of each game in their favor.
They'll have that defense this year.
However, how far back (if at all) will their offense step? Even a half-step back could negate the improvements on defense when facing a relatively balanced team.
Iowa will have that balance this year. Their defense will struggle to contain Robinson, but he won't be a one-man show this year and they'll do well with his more limited role. Meanwhile, their offense will test the Wolverines defense as much as Michigan State's will.
One more time for Iowa.
Iowa 30, Michigan 28
Michigan State (2-2) vs. Minnesota (0-4)
29 of 49
November 5, 2011
Poor Minnesota. Things just aren't turning out the way it had hoped. Sometimes starting over can be painful.
Michigan State is tasting what's happening around the league and will be putting together a finishing push that Dantonio can be proud of.
The Verdict
Seriously, expect Minnesota to be good again soon. Just don't expect it to be this year. There will be losses galore around the Big Ten, but it will be due to an increase in parity, not necessarily a decline of the conference strength.
The Spartans won't be undone by anyone short of a conference contender at this point.
Michigan State 33, Minnesota 13
Nebraska (3-1) vs. Northwestern (2-3)
30 of 49
November 5, 2011
Nebraska has suffered its first conference loss. How will it respond?
Northwestern has one quality win over Iowa, but it is looking for something bigger. The WIldcats need something that will establish them as an honest player in the new conference.
The Verdict
Nebraska won't be fooled by anything the Wildcats bring to the table and the talent differential will be noticeable at the end of the day.
Nebraska 31, Northwestern 20
Wisconsin (3-1) vs. Purdue (2-2)
31 of 49
November 5, 2011
The Boilermakers have hung around longer than some bigger names in the big picture of the Big Ten. Technically, they're not out of the division title race, but it would take some help to pull it off.
It starts with knocking off the Badgers on the road.
Wisconsin meanwhile, is in the driver's seat of the Leaders Division. Penn State is right there with them, but how long can Joe Pa's crew hang on? The Badgers' toughest games are behind them. Now, it's a slow cruise to the conference title game.
The Verdict
Purdue could absolutely make Wisconsin pay for too much smugness. They could absolutely make this game much closer than it needs to be.
But...they won't.
The Boilermakers are just an injury or two away from a season collapse at all times. It'll happen at some point, and it will affect what happens here.
Wisconsin 31, Purdue 13
Illinois (1-4) vs. Michigan (4-1)
32 of 49
November 12, 2011
This one so nearly rates a "must-see game" label. I mean, who wasn't thrilled with last year's triple-overtime 67-65 finish?
Illinois fans, that's who.
The Illini will be looking for a signature win while the Wolverines will be working to lock down a division title.
The Verdict
In 2009, Illinois manhandled the Wolverines to the tune of 38-13. No, Michigan didn't have all of its offensive weapons in place and that likely made all the difference. In 2010, it did have all of the offensive weapons in place and it was a shootout of the highest magnitude.
Talent for talent, this game should probably go to the Wolverines. They'll take bigger steps forward than Illinois will.
However, Michigan has gotten to this point largely by beating the lesser teams in the conference. Illinois may not be a conference contender, but it will be competitive in virtually all of its games.
Illinois wants this one more than Michigan does and Zook's boys keep him in a job a little while longer.
Illinois 38, Michigan 35
Iowa (4-1) vs. Michigan State (3-2)
33 of 49
November 12, 2011 (Must-See Game)
The last few years, the contests between these two teams have been fairly exciting. In 2008, the Spartans bit the Hawkeyes 16-13. In 2009, a last-second play (literally) lifted Iowa over Michigan State 15-13.
Last year was a little different. Iowa controlled the tempo, controlled the clock and controlled the Spartans 37-6. Don't consider it indicative of the way this series will continue to go.
Michigan State will have a lot to prove and Iowa will hit that stretch where it is waiting for the shoe to drop on an otherwise great season.
The Verdict
Things worked out well for Iowa last year. The Hawkeyes got the kind of play they needed out of both lines, the run game worked, the pass attack worked and the defensive secondary pulled out a spectacular play or two.
That didn't happen every week for Iowa and it likely won't happen every week this year either. Michigan State's offense will test Iowa's green defense.
Iowa's offense won't have a lot of trouble moving the ball on the Spartans either, but does it have the kind of depth and balance to keep the Spartans on their heels for four quarters?
Expect this game to look a lot more like 2008 or 2009 than the 2010 version.
Michigan State 24, Iowa 21
Minnesota (0-5) vs. Wisconsin (4-1)
34 of 49
November 12, 2011
Jerry Kill's first year in the Big Ten hasn't been a good one. For the talent that the Gophers feel they have coming back, it's not enough to keep them competitive in this atmosphere.
Wisconsin isn't quite as good as last year with the losses to the offensive line, but the Badgers have been (and will be) good enough to get the job done against the opponents that have been in front of them.
The Verdict
Minnesota's offense isn't tough enough to beat Wisconsin's offense and while Wisconsin's offense may not be quite as effective as last season, it's good enough to play with most defenses.
Wisconsin 34, Minnesota 10
Penn State (4-1) vs. Nebraska (4-1)
35 of 49
November 12, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Penn State may not quite be the cream of the Big Ten crop right now, but it may well look like it by mid-November. The Lions schedule hasn't been too bad and they should be fairly solid on both sides of the ball.
They're coming head to head with some awfully tough competition here at the end of the season, though.
Nebraska had a rough road from the very start. On one hand, it could be pretty beaten up by this point. On the other, there's very little that Penn State (or anyone else) could bring to the table that the 'Huskers haven't already seen.
This should be an incredible showdown between two teams clearly in the hunt for their respective divisions. It could potentially be a preview of the conference title game.
The Verdict
Penn State's defense should be as well suited to deal with Nebraska's offense as anyone in the conference. Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead won't necessarily find it easy to put points on the board.
That doesn't mean that Penn State's offense will be as capable of doing the same thing to Nebraska.
Nebraska 20, Penn State 13
Purdue (2-3) vs. Ohio State (2-3)
36 of 49
November 12, 2011
In 2009, the Boilermakers shocked the Buckeyes 26-18. Can they do it again?
Ohio State is dealing with so much off the field, it's bound to translate in one way or another on the field. By this point in the season, it may have affected Ohio State to the point that winning a seventh consecutive conference title may already be out.
Purdue may have had a strong start to its conference campaign, but now the Boilermakers are hitting the toughest stretch of competition on their slate and aren't looking quite as good as they did before.
The Verdict
I watched that game in 2009. Purdue wanted to win and believed it could. Ohio State meanwhile, pretty much figured it could come in and steamroll the Boilers and head back home with an easy "W".
It didn't work out that way.
It also won't be that way this year for Ohio State. This entire season will be a battle for the Buckeyes and they're not about to take anyone too lightly. If they do, look for their conference record to be even worse than I've predicted here.
The rest of the conference is itching to chew on the slowly rotting carcass of the Buckeyes. The Boilermakers will go hungry, though.
Ohio State 27, Purdue 17
Illinois (2-4) vs. Wisconsin (5-1)
37 of 49
November 19, 2011
Do a little math here. There are 10 total games down (six in conference).
Illinois is sitting at best 6-4. The Illini are bowl eligible (barring any out-of-conference losses) but out of the conference title race.
Wisconsin would be 9-1 at best, bowl eligible and guaranteed a bowl game in the New Year. They're still at the front of the Leaders Division.
In a nutshell, Wisconsin has everything to lose while Illinois has pretty much nothing to lose. The Illini can't win the conference, and they're bowl eligible. It's all about getting the best bowl invite possible.
What does that mean for this contest?
The Verdict
What that all means is that Illinois is a very dangerous opponent at this point of the season. It can throw the kitchen sink at Wisconsin and it really won't matter if it hits or misses. If the Illini lose, it's largely expected. If they win though, it's a huge selling point for potential bowl suitors.
This could actually be a pretty decent game, if Coach Zook and his staff have any courage at all to take it to the Badgers.
However, the Badgers defense will be tough to beat. The Illini run defense, which ranked fourth in the conference last year, might be good enough to thwart Ball and White. But can Scheelhaase do anything with the opportunities they provide?
Not enough, in my opinion.
Wisconsin 20, Illinois 16
Michigan State (4-2) vs. Indiana (1-5)
38 of 49
November 19, 2011
The Legends Division is wide open. The Spartans are right there with the Wolverines and Hawkeyes and are just a step behind the Cornhuskers.
The Hoosiers are floundering and fighting just to stay out of last place in the conference.
The Verdict
In a battle of the offenses, the Spartans have more pop than the Hoosiers. Their defense will be better too.
Michigan State 31, Indiana 20
Purdue (2-4) vs. Iowa (4-2)
39 of 49
November 19, 2011
This is the battle of the Black and Gold. Both teams come out wearing similar colors, though Iowa's is admittedly more yellow than gold.
These two teams haven't played since 2008, but as part of the same division, they will confront each other every year from now on. Of the last three meetings, Iowa won two and Purdue took the other.
It's rarely a given for either team that they'll win, or even do well, against the other.
The Verdict
This is a dangerous game for Iowa. The Hawkeyes will likely be favored and will still be in the thick of the conference title hunt. With MSU behind them and Nebraska still waiting in the wings, the Boilermakers are perfectly situated to be trap-game opponents.
What's more, the Boilermakers use a highly mobile quarterback (whether it's Marve or Rob Henry) and move at a pace that tends to be difficult for the Hawkeyes to follow.
With Iowa fans sitting on pins and needles, this is exactly the kind of game Iowa tends to blow.
Purdue 29, Iowa 27
Michigan (4-2) vs. Nebraska (5-1)
40 of 49
November 19, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Welcome to the Big House, Cornhusker fans. It's one of the biggest, loudest and most-storied venues in all of college football.
Michigan would absolutely love to get a win at home over an opponent the caliber of Nebraska. Not only would it be a clear indicator that the Wolverines are once again relevant in the Big Ten title race, but it would put them squarely at the forefront of the Legends Division race.
Nebraska will be hanging onto a narrow lead in the division and looking to close out strongly, though the schedule still doesn't give them any reprieve.
The Verdict
Denard Robinson isn't supposed to carry the ball as much as he did a year ago. He's not supposed to. Will he or won't he, though?
It's sometimes tough to convince a player with the athletic ability of Robinson that he doesn't need to tuck the ball and run every time his first read through the receivers reveals no one open.
With that in mind, will he still be healthy enough to work his magic this late in the season?
Even if he is, Nebraska will be as ready as anyone for Robinson's happy feet. Michigan's defense meanwhile, may not yet be up to par to keep track of Martinez and the crew for four quarters.
Nebraska 29, Michigan 20
Northwestern (2-4) vs. Minnesota (0-6)
41 of 49
November 19, 2011
The Wildcats are scrambling to put together a solid season. At best, they'll be at 6-4 coming into this game and trying to battle their way into a decent New Year's bowl.
Minnesota, at very best, will be 4-6 and fighting for any bowl.
For both teams, this may be the best opportunity to notch another win. For Minnesota, it's do or die.
Despite their issues a year ago, the Golden Gophers only dropped to the Wildcats by a single point, 28-29. That game was the fourth in, what turned out to be, a nine-game losing streak.
The year before, the Gophers won handily 35-24 and the year before that they lost by seven. This is a pretty solid series these two teams are having.
The Verdict
Can Minnesota handle Dan Persa? Well, it did last year. Remember, Persa didn't get hurt until much later in the season.
However, Minnesota will once again be struggling, sitting on at least a six-game losing streak and will be winless in the conference to this point.
Remember something else. The Gophers rallied in the final two weeks of last season to knock off both Illinois and Iowa. If they can beat those two teams with the troubles they had going against them, they can beat Northwestern this year with Jerry Kill finally starting to pull this team together.
Minnesota 27, Northwestern 24
Ohio State (3-3) vs. Penn State (4-2)
42 of 49
November 19, 2011 (Must-See Game)
In 2009, Ohio State had little trouble disposing of the Nittany Lions (24-7). In 2008, they weren't so lucky (6-13). Last year was all Buckeyes as well (38-14).
Coming into this one, Ohio State is just looking for some salvation to its season. The Nittany Lions are looking to make a strong, late statement in the Leaders Division race.
It's a showdown between two storied and (usually) respected programs.
The Verdict
Unless Luke Fickell is inept as a head coach, the Buckeyes should be putting their off-field issues behind them and should have everything clicking as well as it's going to. The defense should have found the best personnel for their team and the offense should be working at peak performance.
Penn State will give them a fight. This really could be an epic game, well worth tuning into.
Joe Paterno will have his guys ready to go for this game. The problem is that they didn't face the Buckeyes sooner in the season, while they were still reeling from all of their bad fortunes. By this time, they'll be looking a lot more like the Buckeyes of old.
Ohio State 26, Penn State 23
Minnesota (1-6) vs. Illinois (2-5)
43 of 49
November 26, 2011
This is it. This week is the final opportunity for every program to make one last statement, or gain one last position.
For Minnesota, it may be hanging on to the thin hope of going bowling. The Gophers might be right on the edge of eligibility.
Illinois might not be far ahead. For the Illini, this isn't just about bowling—it's about pride. For Ron Zook, it could be about his job.
The Verdict
Last year, Minnesota pulled things together to knock off the Illini 38-34.
Don't expect the same thing to happen twice. Illinois may be struggling somewhat by comparison to last season, but it will still have a dangerous offense and a defense that will keep the Illini competitive in most games.
Minnesota will get out-gunned this time around.
Illinois 34, Minnesota 24
Indiana (1-6) vs. Purdue (3-4)
44 of 49
November 26, 2011
Purdue could very well be bowl eligible and looking to secure the deal. Indiana meanwhile, likely will not and won't be able to become eligible.
I'm not sure how much of a "rivalry" this game is, but it could be fairly heated. Both teams need this win, though it's hard to say which one needs it more.
The Verdict
How high can Purdue go? How low will Indiana stay?
At this point, the Boilermakers may feel like they're in uncharted territory. Only seniors will remember the last time Purdue had a winning season (2007).
Meanwhile, Indiana will be continue fighting to win the winnable games. Kevin Wilson will demand no less. They'll end on a high note and prepare for a better 2012 season.
Indiana 30, Purdue 24
Nebraska (6-1) vs. Iowa (4-3)
45 of 49
November 26, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Both 'Huskers and Hawkeyes fans hope this new season-ending rivalry heats up into something special. As border states, there's a love-hate relationship between the two programs.
Many fans love the fact that Nebraska has joined the Big Ten, but are fully ready to hate them on November 26.
Don't worry...the feeling is mutual.
There's a lot of respect between the majority of fans, but don't expect it to carry over to game day.
Iowa will be out of the conference title race, but that doesn't mean they can't get one more big win to sell to bowl selection committees. Nebraska will be looking to lock down the division and go to the first conference title game.
The Verdict
On paper, this should be all Nebraska, all the way. The 'Huskers offense should be good enough to beat Iowa's untested defense. Their defense should be good enough to give Iowa's new quarterback nightmares.
And, of course, this game is in Lincoln.
However, Iowa thrives in the games it is not supposed to win. Remember the Penn State game in 2008? How about the 2010 Orange Bowl?
That this is a road game won't affect Iowa at all. If anything, it'll light an extra fire under the Hawkeyes and get them ready for one more big battle.
Nebraska will give them all they can handle, but the Hawkeyes will stay in this one and pull out the upset in the end to really set this rivalry off on a hot note.
Iowa 22, Nebraska 21
Michigan (4-3) vs. Ohio State (4-3)
46 of 49
November 26, 2011 (Must-See Game)
"The Game" should be interesting again this year. That is to say, it should be interesting for more than just the people in Ann Arbor and Columbus.
Whether my previous predictions are correct or not, this is Brady Hoke's first year as head coach of the Wolverines and Jim Tressel won't be coach of the Buckeyes. Football fans will want to see what shakes out in the Big House with all of the shakeups both programs have faced the last few years.
If my predictions are correct, both teams will come into this at 4-3 in conference play. Neither will be going to the first conference title game, but there will still be a strong desire to get the "upper hand" on the other, both in the game and in terms of overall records.
The Verdict
With all of the emotions that go into this game, it's really tough to predict a winner. Ohio State should still be the more talented team, top to bottom. However, we don't yet know how well interim head coach Luke Fickell will be at in-game adjustments.
We also don't know just how much Brady Hoke and his staff will improve the Wolverines woeful defense and how his changes will affect the offense.
By this late in the season, both teams will be at peak performance. Ohio State's offense will still batter Michigan's defense, but the same may be true the other way around.
Ohio State 34, Michigan 31
Northwestern (2-5) vs. Michigan State (5-2)
47 of 49
November 26, 2011
Is this rivalry better for Michigan State than the one they had going with Penn State? How about Northwestern's former season-ender with Wisconsin?
I don't think it matters for Northwestern, as I'm not sure who truly has a beef with them. For Michigan State though, I don't think this game has near the pop that the showdown with Penn State did.
At any rate, here they are, and both should be bowl eligible. Northwestern will be firmly out of the conference title chase though, while Michigan State will still technically be in it, particularly because the Spartans beat Nebraska in their head-to-head matchup.
The Verdict
In the last five years, Northwestern has only defeated the Spartans once (2007). As I've said many times, I expect the Spartans to take a bigger-than-expected step backward on defense, but their offense will have no problems at all.
Dan Persa will make things interesting for a while, and Pat Fitzgerald will have his team fired up to end on a really high note, but it won't be enough.
Michigan State 34, Northwestern 20
Wisconsin (6-1) vs. Penn State (4-3)
48 of 49
November 26, 2011 (Must-See Game)
Wisconsin will have the Leaders Division all locked up. No one will be able to touch them, no matter what happens in this game. Their ticket to Indianapolis is punched.
Penn State will be looking to create a tie for second in the division.
The Verdict
With a loss on its record, Wisconsin would likely be on the outside looking in at a national championship berth. It's not even the one loss that hurts the Badgers so badly as the perception of the Big Ten going into this year.
If Ohio State does drop off, even a little, the entire image of the conference takes a hit. That is, unless Michigan steps up and threatens to go undefeated. As much as I respect Brady Hoke, I don't think he's going to do that in his first year in Ann Arbor.
While the conference could be arguably stronger than it has been in quite a while, it won't look that way and Wisconsin will be too far out of the big picture to likely earn a spot for the crystal football.
All of that leads to this: Wisconsin has very little to prove in this game and nothing really to lose either. What's the motivation?
Penn State's defense could create huge problems for Wisconsin's offense, even if their own offense will struggle mightily against the Badgers D.
In the end, Wisconsin carries the Big Ten banner forward, barely sneaking by Joe Pa's Lions.
Wisconsin 20, Penn State 17
The Conference Standings
49 of 49
Here's how I see it all shaking out. As with the slides, the records in parenthesis are indicative only of the conference record and not the overall record.
Leaders Division
Wisconsin (7-1)
Ohio State (5-3)
Penn State (4-4)
Illinois (3-5)
Purdue (3-5)
Indiana (2-6)
Legends Division
Michigan State (6-2) (Won the head-to-head with Nebraska and goes to the title game)
Nebraska (6-2)
Iowa (5-3)
Michigan (4-4)
Northwestern (2-6)
Minnesota (1-7)
And just for kickers...
In the conference title game, Wisconsin will face Michigan State, where the Badgers will put together the best performance of their season en route to their second straight Rose Bowl appearance.
Wisconsin 38, Michigan State 20
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