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The Big Ten has its first full week of seven games this week, and the nation's No. 1 and No. 2 ranked teams get to face the new guys. After struggling with the Indiana schools last week they have another chance to lay the smack down on some overwhelmed foes. Those are just two games in this week's schedule.
Maryland (2-3, 0-1) at Ohio State (5-0, 1-0) Noon, BTN
Last week at least Indiana was playing well, at home, and had a ton of emotion as they put everything into trying to beat the nation's No. 1 team and defending National Champ. Maryland is on the road, looks pretty awful compared to Indiana, and they are likely going to fire their coach in a few days. The Buckeyes should roll. Ohio State 45, Maryland 10
Indiana (4-1, 0-1) at Penn State (4-1, 1-0) Noon, ESPN
This should be an interesting game because Indiana's top two players left with injuries last week and Penn State has a good defense, but man that offense is awful. If Jordan Howard and Nate Sudfeld play the Hoosiers should be able to score far more than Penn State can. Playing Ohio State close is one thing. If Indiana can win a winnable game on the road like this they really are a good team. Indiana 27, Penn State 21
Illinois (4-1, 1-0) at Iowa (5-0, 1-0) Noon, ESPN2
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By the end of the day on Saturday one of these teams will be in first place in the West and control their destiny for Indianapolis. Iowa looks really, really good again. Illinois is a pretty odd 4-1 and was lucky to win last week when Nebraska played about the worst clock management possible. Like Indiana, this is a true test for the Illini. A win means they really can contend in the West. I don't see Iowa losing at home, however. Iowa 31, Illinois 13
Northwestern (5-0, 1-0) at Michigan (4-1, 1-0) 3:30om, BTN
If you like defense this is your game. Both teams are going to line it up and play manball. Both teams shut out their respective opponents last week. Both teams also have offenses that sometimes struggle to score points. This is going to be a game where points are at a premium and the first touchdown might even be enough to win. Few teams have looked as good and consistent in the Big Ten as Northwestern, and I think they have enough to get the road win. Northwestern 13, Michigan 10
Wisconsin (3-2, 0-1) at Nebraska (2-3, 0-1) 3:30pm ABC/ESPN2
Both of these teams were favored to contend in the West, but already have a loss. That means the loser is likely out of the race before it starts. I was shocked to see last week that Wisconsin can't run the ball at home. Nebraska has the worst luck of all with three losses inside the final minute or in overtime. We should also keep an eye on this game as they are each Purdue's next two opponents. Maybe we have a shot against them both. Wisconsin 24, Nebraska 21
Minnesota (3-2, 0-1) at Purdue (1-4, 0-1) 3:30pm ESPNU
This needs to be a win for the Boilers. Purdue is playing at home against an opponent it can beat and they are riding some actual positive momentum after the second half last week. Minnesota's offense is in complete disarray too. The Boilers have been close three times this year, but this needs to be the time they take a step forward and win a game. Can Purdue do it? As long as the Boilers avoid more self-inflicted wounds, they will. Purdue 21, Minnesota 17
Michigan State (5-0, 1-0) at Rutgers (2-2, 0-1) 8pm, BTN
We know Michigan State's M.O. already. They are going to get an early lead and sit on your head the rest of the game. Rutgers is also getting back Leonte Carroo as their top playmaker, so maybe the Scarlet Knights have a chance here. It is never easy play a road game at night, but Michigan State has the players and the reputation to get the job done. Michigan State 27, Rutgers 14