Meineke and Hunger Bowls

Texas A&M vs Northwestern (Texas A&M)

Illinois vs. UCLA (Illinois)

Insight Bowl

Iowa vs. Oklahoma (Oklahoma)

Little Caesar's Bowl Prediction

A little late posting, though my pick is down at the half.

Purdue vs. Western Michigan (Western Michigan)

Week 14: Big Ten Championship Prediction

Wisconsin vs. Michigan State (Wisconsin)

Week 13: Review

Week 13: Review

For the regular season, I came in first place for overall picks at 74-23 (76.3%), followed by Brian Bennett at 73-24 (75.3%) and Adam Rittenberg at 71-26 (73.2%).  For points (2 points for conference games, 1 point for non-conference games) I tied Brian Bennett at 108 points for first place, followed by Adam Rittenberg at 106 points.

Fairly even, I must say.  On to the conference championship. 

Justin Brennan
Week #13: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 74-23 (76.3%)
Week #13 Points: 10
Points to date: 108
ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #13: 6-0 (100.0%)
Year (to date): 73-24 (75.3%)
Week #12 Points: 12
Points to date: 108

Adam Rittenberg
Week #13: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 71-26 (73.2%)
Week #13 Points: 10
Points to date: 106

Week 13: Predictions

Iowa @ Nebraska (Nebraska)

Michigan State @ Northwestern (Michigan State)

Ohio State @ Michigan (Michigan)

Purdue @ Indiana (Purdue)

Illinois @ Minnesota (Minnesota)

Penn State @ Wisconsin (Penn State)

Justin Brennan
Week #12: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 69-22 (75.8%)
Week #12 Points: 10
Points to date: 98

ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #12: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 67-24 (73.6%)
Week #12 Points: 10
Points to date: 96
Adam Rittenberg
Week #12: 3-3 (50.0%)
Year (to date): 66-25 (72.5%)
Week #12 Points: 6
Points to date: 96

Week 11: Review

Justin Brennan
Week #11: 3-3 (50.0%)
Year (to date): 64-21 (75.3%)
Week #11 Points: 5
Points to date: 88

ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #11: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 62-23 (72.9%)
Week #11 Points: 7
Points to date: 86

Adam Rittenberg
Week #11: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 63-22 (74.1%)
Week #11 Points: 7
Points to date: 90

Week 12: Predictions

Minnesota @ Northwestern (Northwestern)
Indiana @ Michigan State (Michigan State)
Nebraska @ Michigan (Nebraska)
Wisconsin @ Illinois (Wisconsin)
Iowa @ Purdue (Iowa)
Penn State @ Ohio State (Penn State)

Week #11: Predictions

Rice @ Northwestern (Northwestern)
Nebraska @ Penn State (Penn State)
Michigan State @ Iowa (Michigan State)
Ohio State @ Purdue (Ohio State)
Wisconsin @ Minnesota (Wisconsin)
Michigan @ Illinois (Illinois)

Week #10: Review

Justin Brennan
Week #10: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 61-18 (77.2%)
Week #10 Points: 8
Points to date: 83


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #10: 3-3 (50.0%)
Year (to date): 58-21 (73.4)
Week #10 Points: 6
Points to date: 79

Adam Rittenberg
Week #10: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 59-20 (74.7%)
Week #10 Points: 7
Points to date: 83

Week #10: Predictions

Minnesota @ Michigan State (Michigan State)
Indiana @ Ohio State (Ohio State)
Michigan @ Iowa (Michigan)
Northwestern @ Nebraska (Northwestern)
Purdue @ Wisconsin (Wisconsin)

Bonus Pick:
LSU & Alabama (Alabama)

Week 9: Review

Week 9: Review
Well it is a pretty close race after 9 weeks of football.  In terms of straight-up picks, I am in the lead by a single game, while bloggers Rittenberg and Bennett are tied.  In terms of points (remember 1 point for each correctly picked out-of-conference game and 2 points for every correctly picked conference game), Rittenberg is 1 point ahead of me.  Bennett trails me by 2 points.

Still no replies from either Bennett or Rittenberg.  I think they fear that some Joe off the street is going to beat them!


Justin Brennan
Week #9: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 57-16 (78.1%)
Week #9 Points: 8
Points to date: 75


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #9: 3-3 (50.0%)
Year (to date): 55-18 (75.3%)
Week #9 Points: 6
Points to date: 73

Adam Rittenberg
Week #9: 4-2 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 55-18 (75.3%)
Week #9 Points: 8
Points to date: 76

Week 9: Predictions

Northwestern @ Indiana (Northwestern)

Purdue @ Michigan (Michigan)

Michigan State @ Nebraska (Nebraska)

Iowa @ Minnesota (Iowa)

Illinois @ Penn State (Penn State)

Wisconsin @ Ohio State (Wisconsin)

Week 8: Review

Week 8: Review

Justin Brennan
Week #8: 3-2 (60.0%)
Year (to date): 53-14 (79.1%)
Week #8 Points: 6
Points to date: 67


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #8: 3-2 (60.0%)
Year (to date): 52-15 (77.6%)
Week #8 Points: 6
Points to date: 67


Adam Rittenberg
Week #8: 2-3 (40.0%)
Year (to date): 51-16 (76.1%)
Week #8 Points: 4
Points to date: 68

Week 8: Predictions

Week 8 Predictions
I didn't post on time, but my wife can vouch for me that these were my picks.

Indiana @ Iowa (Iowa)

Illinois @ Purdue (Illinois)

Nebraska @ Minnesota (Nebraska)

Penn State @ Northwestern (Penn State)

Wisconsin @ Michigan State (Wisconsin)


Idle:
Michigan
Ohio State

Week #7: Review

Week 7: Review

Justin Brennan
Week #7: 3-2 (60.0%)
Year (to date): 50-12 (80.6%)
Week #7 Points: 6
Points to date: 61


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #7: 3-2 (60.0%)
Year (to date): 49-13 (79.0%)
Week #7 Points: 6
Points to date: 61


Adam Rittenberg
Week #7: 5-0 (100.0%)
Year (to date): 49-13 (79.0%)
Week #7 Points: 10
Points to date: 64

Week 7: Predictions

I currently am tied with Big Ten Blogger Brian Bennett and 1 point ahead of Blogger Adam Rittenberg.

Idle:
Minnesota
Nebraska

Michigan @ Michigan State (Michigan)
Until somebody stops Denard, nobody will stop Denard. Whoa... That was deep.

Purdue @ Penn State (Penn State)
Penn State is playing good football right now, and should take care of business against he Boilers.

Indiana @ Wisconsin (Wisconsin)
Do the Badgers play any road games anymore? Bucky wins big.

Ohio State @ Illinois (Illinois)
Illinois finds ways to win. Ohio State finds ways to lose. Fickle gets Zooked

Northwestern @ Iowa (Iowa)
The Hawkeyes take advantage of a poor Wildcat defense.

Week #6: Review

Week 6: Review
Had I picked my team, I would have went undefeated. In any case, it is almost a dead heat!

Justin Brennan
Week #6: 4-1 (80.0%)
Year (to date): 47-10 (82.5%)
Week #6 Points: 8
Points to date: 55


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #6: 4-1 (80.0%)
Year (to date): 46-11 (80.7%)
Week #6 Points: 8
Points to date: 55


Adam Rittenberg
Week #6: 5-0 (100.0%)
Year (to date): 44-13 (77.2%)
Week #6 Points: 10
Points to date: 54

Week #6: Predictions

Week #5: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 43-9 (82.7%)
Week #5 Points: 9
Points to date: 47

Week#6 Predictions

No time for big descriptions this week.  On to the picks!

 

Minnesota @ Purdue (Minnesota)

 

Minnesota is inconsistent.  Purdue is consistent but is not that good.  I am going with Purdue at home. 

 

 

 

Illinois at Indiana (Illinois)

 

Illinois is playing good football right now.  Indiana is lacking, but did put on a good performance against Penn State.  I'll go with the Chief. 

 

 

 

Iowa @ Penn State (Iowa)

 

Iowa has owned my Nits.  Penn State has a great defense, but I think offensively they are broken mainly due to poor coaching and decision making.  I am going with the Hawks.

 

 

 

Michigan @ Northwestern (Michigan)

I think this game will be a SHOOT OUT!!!  If Northwestern had any semblance of a defense, I would go with the upset pick.  However, Northwestern has nothing even resembling a Big Ten defense.  Michigan wins.

 

 

 

Ohio State @ Nebraska (Nebraska)

 

Though I am still waiting for Nebraska to show up to last week's game versus the Badgers, I don't think Ohio State even knows there is a football season going on. 

 

 

Idle
Michigan State

Wisconsin

 

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Week #5: Review

Week #5 Review

I took doubted Wisconsin and Russel Wilson.  I was wrong and am now tied in points with ESPN blogger Brian Bennett.  I feel like I have a much better feeling on the teams now. 

Justin Brennan
Week #5: 5-1 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 43-9 (82.7%)
Week #5 Points: 9
Points to date: 47


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #5: 6-0 (100.0%)
Year (to date): 42-10 (80.8%)
Week #5 Points: 11
Points to date: 47


Adam Rittenberg
Week #5: 6-0 (100.0%)
Year (to date): 39-13 (75.0%)
Week #5 Points: 11
Points to date: 44

Week #5: Predictions

Record to date: 38-8 (82.6 %)
Record last week: 9-1 (90.0%)

Week#5 Predictions

Conference play begins and what a opening slate of games!

Penn State @ Indiana (Penn State)
Penn State lost two of their best three defensive players last week against Eastern Michigan, Michael Mauti and D'Anton Lynn.  Mauti is out for the year which is a shame because I predicted that Mauti would be the Big Ten DPOY and did feel he was on track for such a breakout year.  Lynn likely will be out for a few weeks. 

Even without Mauti, I think PSU has an exceptional defense and can overcome the injuries for now.  Both PSU and Indiana lack offensive identities right now, but PSU has more offensive playmakers.  On defense, PSU clearly outmatches the Hoosiers.  And on the special teams side of the equation, the Lions may have found their kicker in Fera.  Indiana's wideouts may be somewhat problematic for the Lions to contain, especially with Lynn's injury.  However, this is the lone advantage I see for the Hoosiers in all of the matchups. 

At a neutral site last season, a less talented Penn State team ended up getting the win.  This 2011 version of Penn State is vastly improved, and I see them playing a very solid game.  Penn State takes a much needed step in the right direction with a big win. 



Minnesota @ Michigan (Michigan)
While I do not think the Golden Gophers are going to sit back and just get licked, I think Michigan is playing football better by about every aspect.  Michigan's defense has played better, but they have not seen an elite offensive attack yet.  The Gophers certainly are not among the offensive elite and their current QB quandary is problematic.  I think the biggest discrepancy between the teams is Michigan's offense versus Minnesota's defense.  Denard got off to a smoking start last week and I expect him to have a good game this week and Minnesota just does not have athletic enough defenders to contain him. 



Michigan State @ Ohio State (Michigan State)
This game is a true litmus test for both teams.  I think the winner of this game is going to have a decent season, but the loser of this game may be set to underachieve.  While I think Ohio State has better talent, I like Michigan State's experience, especially behind center.  Both teams had Week 3 matchups to forget, but also had good bounce backs last week.  This one could go either way, but MSU's experience and my gut feeling at the beginning of the season tell me to go with Sparty. 



Northwestern @ Illinois (Illinois)
If this was not Persa's first game back, I'd probably pick the Wildcats, however I think he will not be at 100 percent effectiveness this week.  Northwestern is simply not ready to fulfill its offensive potential yet.  Defensively, Northwestern is really lacking too.  Illinois is a much more complete team, even though they had a scare last week.  Being at home helps the Chief as well.  I do believe that the Illini are a touch over-rated, but they still should outmatch the Wildcats. 



Notre Dame @ Purdue (Notre Dame)

Though there victory against Pitt may seem to indicate otherwise, ND is rolling.  Even though Purdue had an off-week, the Irish are starting to put things together  Time can sometimes beat talent, but Danny Hope is no Urban Meyer.  Boiler down. 


Nebraska @ Wisconsin (Nebraska)
My wife and in-laws will hate me, but I think the Badgers have yet to be tested.  To quote another blogger, "Nebraska has played no one, but Wisconsin has played NOBODY."  I think that at least the Huskers had to play 4 quarters of football against Fresno State and Washington.  Wisconsin has not had to play more than a half of real football this season.  I think that 4th quarter endurance and mindset will hamper the Badgers.

Offensively, both teams are impressive, but Bucky is more balanced.  Defensively is where I think the Cornhuskers will separate themselves.  I think Camp Randall is more winnable than the media is making it out to be.  I like Nebraska and their defense in this one. 


Idle
Iowa

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Week #4

Week #4 Review

Week #4 was pretty straightforward. I hate Minnesota. Unlike my Big Ten Blogger brethren, I predicted Indiana's loss. The other games were generally one-sided. I am glad the Illini squeaked out a win.

What changes now? Conference games are now worth 2 points. That means it is time to separate the men from the boys!

Justin Brennan
Week #4: 9-1 (90.0%)
Year (to date): 38-8 (82.6%)
Week #4 Points: 9
Points to date: 38


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #4: 8-2 (80.0%)
Year (to date): 36-10 (78.3%)
Week #4 Points: 8
Points to date: 36


Adam Rittenberg
Week #4: 8-2 (80.0%)
Year (to date): 33-13 (71.7%)
Week #4 Points: 8
Points to date: 33

Week #4: Predictions

Record to date: 29-7 (80.6 %)
Record last week: 8-4 (67.7%)

Week#4 Predictions
My straight up picks for Week #4.  This is the last week of pure non-conference action, so I am hoping for a sweep to get me into conference matchups.  No pairing of ranked opponents this week.  In fact, most of these games are pretty one-sided.  On to the picks!!!

Winners

Central Michigan at Michigan State (Michigan State)
The biggest shocker of last week was the lack of a running attack from Sparty against the Irish.  I cannot imagine Sparty having similar issues this week.  Michigan State will bounce back and go to 3-1.

San Diego State at Michigan (Michigan)
Brady Hoke knows his former team better than his current team.  That has to be a huge advantage for Michigan.  I also like the statistical matchups in Michigan's favor.  Michigan also has the best player in college football (in my opinion).  Close, but I hand the W to the Wolverines. 

Eastern Michigan at Penn State (Penn State)
Penn State's defense played lights out against Temple last week, practically winning the game for the Nits.  Penn State's offense did little to help them beat Temple.  Penn State's special teams did everything in their power to lose the game.  Luckily, Eastern Michigan continues its Big Ten Butt Kick Tour.  I expect the Lions to win big and to address a lot of their issues. 

Louisiana-Monroe at Iowa (Iowa)
Arrgh, I want to call the upset in this one, but home field advantage convinces me otherwise.  Iowa like many Big Ten teams have a lot of problems to address, but I always like when I team has to fight back to win.  It builds character and helps the leaders rise to the surface.  Iowa wins but it is close.

Colorado at Ohio State (Ohio State)
Ohio State is a mess right now.  They gave up more running yards in a game than I have ever seen.  Colorado is a bigger mess however, struggling in their opening 3 games.  Ohio State wins. 

South Dakota at Wisconsin (Wisconsin)
Squish...  That was the sound of Wisconsin steamrolling yet another cupcake. 

Western Michigan at Illinois (Illinois)
Good win last week for the Illini.  Michigan took care of business (albeit in a shortened game) against WMU.  I think that the Illini have a better overall team than Michigan right now and that they continue to roll.  I expect the Illini to stumble here soon, but just not this week. 

North Dakota State at Minnesota (Minnesota)
As bad as I have been predicting Minnesota this year, I should just flipped a coin.  The home field helps the Gophers as does offensive threat Gray at QB.  While NDS is one of the best FCS teams around, I think they are not slipping under Jerry Kill's radar. 

Nebraska at Wyoming (Nebraska)
Nebraska is improving, but with the Badgers rolling into town next week this has the makings of a classic trap game.  The Cornhuskers struggle, but win simply due to far better talent. 

Losers

Indiana at North Texas
Neither team is impressive.  I think Indiana has much better talent, but they were too heavily penalized last week to make me think they are anywhere near playing good football.  I'll go with the home team in a tight one.


Idle
Northwestern
Purdue

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Week #3 Review

Week #3 Review

Week #3 was a toughie and while I cannot say I was pleased going 8-4, I certainly could have faired much worse.  I did correctly call my second upset (Army over Northwestern).  Sadly, I am kicking myself for not going with my gut for Michigan State and Ohio State.  In any case, I hung in there with ESPN's Big Ten Bloggers.  I am starting to be pull away from Adam Rittenberg, but Brian Bennett is closing on me. 

On to the last week of full non-conference action!

Justin Brennan
Week #3: 8-4 (67.7%)
Year (to date): 29-7 (80.6%)
Week #3 Points: 8
Points to date: 29


ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #3: 9-3 (75.0%)
Year (to date): 28-8 (77.8%)
Week #3 Points: 9
Points to date: 28


Adam Rittenberg
Week #3: 8-4 (66.7%)
Year (to date): 25-11 (69.4%)
Week #3 Points: 8
Points to date: 25

Week #3 Predictions

Record to date: 21-3 (87.5 %)
Record last week: 10-2 (83.3%)

Week#3 Predictions
My straight up picks for Week #3.  In my opinion, this week is the hardest of the non-conference slate.  I'll be happy if I go 9-3 this week.  I could do as bad as 6-6. 

Winners
Eastern Michigan @ Michigan (Michigan)
Michigan is rolling.  If Eastern Michigan assistant and former Wolverine Mike Hart thought Michigan State was Michigan's little brother, than Eastern Michigan is the baby brother.  Denard smokes Eastern Michigan. 

Penn State @ Temple (Penn State)
Everyone thinks the sky is falling in Happy Valley after the loss to 'Bama, but then again, no one picked the Lions anyway!  Puzzling...  Anyway, I think PSU wins the ol' fashoned Paterno way: solid defense and a productive running attack.  I think the 'Bama loss did have a a positive effect on Penn State in that Rob Bolden has begun to separate himself at QB.  Temple is a good team, but PSU bounces back.

Pittsburgh at Iowa (Iowa)

I like the Hawkeyes in this one.  They had a tough road game last week in Ames, but I think Ferentz rights the ship.  Home game and better running attack leads Iowa to victory.

Southeast Missouri State @ Purdue (Purdue)

In the first 2 weeks, Purdue has matched up against equal competition and split the two games.  This week, the Boilermakers are the superior product on the field and win big.

South Carolina State @ Indiana (Indiana)

Finally, the Hoosiers match up well against an opponent.  Savor the victory Indiana... there aren't many more chances on that schedule. 

Michigan State @ Notre Dame (Michigan State)

Tough pick.  On one hand, I cannot see ND losing 3 straight, especially with a home game.  On the other hand, Michigan State improved greatly from week 1 to week 2, especially defensively holding Florida Atlantic to ONE first down.  In tight games I look closest at venue, running game, and defense.  MSU has ND on two of those three and Sparty wins a tight one. 

Washington @ Nebraska (Nebraska)

I knew Fresno would play Nebraska hard.  I think that Nebraska benefits from the competition they got last week and straightens themselves out.  Nebraska wins big.

Wisconsin vs Northern Illinois in Chicago (Wisconsin)
Wisconsin has gotten off to an outstanding start, but I expect them to hit a small roadblock in Chicago.  Against a tougher foe, the Badgers could be in trouble, but this NIU team is not good enough to knock the Badgers off.  Bucky wins, but not a blowout. 

Ohio State @ Miami, FL (Ohio State)

 Toughest pick so far this season.  Prior to the season, I liked the Hurricanes to knock off the Buckeyes.  However, the close game last week may help wake the Buckeyes up out of their funk.  They also get a few players back which will help.  Harris returns for the Hurricanes at QB.  Harris is talented, but is inconsistent and is going to have to shake off some rust.  The Buckeyes eek out a victory. 

Losers
Miami, OH @ Minnesota (Miami, OH)
Fool me once, shame on you.  Fool me twice shame on me.  Prior to the season, I thought Minnesota would be terrible, and in Week #1 they nearly knock off the Trojans on the road.  Then I drank Gopher Kool Aide and they get owned by New Mexico State at home.  Therefore, I return to my previous opinion that the Gophers are a lousy football team. 

Arizona State  @ Illinois (Arizona State)
Another toughie.  Illinois played great last week.  Arizona State also played great, but against a superior opponent.  I think Arizona State narrowly beats the Illini on the road. 

Northwestern @ Army (Army) U
I think that the Wildcats have overachieved without Dan Persa.  This week, Persa is questionable.  Even with Persa starting, he will not be 100 percent.  I just think the Wildcats' luck will run out. 

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Week #2 Review

Week #2 Review

Well after 2 weeks I am still in the lead. I got my Iowa State over Iowa upset correct. I was 50-50 on Purdue vs Rice so no shame in that pick considering how close that game was. I drank the Golden Gopher Kool Aide last week. Shame on me. On to Week #3!

Week #2: 10-2 (83.3%)
Year (to date): 21-3 (87.5%)
Week #2 Points: 10
Points to date: 21

ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #2: 9-3 (75.0%)
Year (to date): 19-5 (79.2%)
Week #2 Points: 9
Points to date: 19

Adam Rittenberg
Week #2: 8-4 (66.7%)
Year (to date): 17-7 (70.8%)
Week #2 Points: 8
Points to date: 17

Week #2 Predictions

Record to date: 11-1 (91.7 %)
Record last week: 11-1 (91.7%)

Week#2 Predictions
My straight up picks for Week #2.  I hope to match last week's success, but there are a couple of really tight matchups, with only one week of trends to observe. 

Winners
Notre Dame @ Michigan (Michigan)
Notre Dame is played too sloppy in their game against South Florida for me to think they will pull it out.  And you cannot blame weather delays either for the Irish, as Michigan dealt with the same storms and delays.  I like Michigan, but I expect a close one.

Oregon State @ Wisconsin (Wisconsin)
I'll make this simple.  Oregon State lost to an FCS team last week.  Wisconsin pummeled UNLV.  Badgers roll to 2-0.

Toledo @ Ohio State (Ohio State)
The Buckeye's get some players back.  While I like Toledo's team, they cannot match the Buckeyes.  Ohio State wins big.

Fresno State @ Nebraska (Nebraska)
Fresno always plays tough, but Nebraska's defense won't let the Bulldogs come away with an upset.  Nebraska wins comfortably, but not by blowout margins.

Florida Atlantic @ Michigan State (Michigan State)
Michigan State did not play up to their potential last week.  I think Florida Atlantic is in for a long day.

New Mexico State @ Minnesota (Minnesota)
I like the fight from the Golden Gophers last week.  I think with Gray back at QB, they'll probably have a better year than I anticipated.  We will see however.  Gophers come away with Jerry Kill's first victory.

Eastern Illinois @ Northwestern (Northwestern)
If the Wildcats can get away with a W on the road at Boston College without Dan Persa, there is no way they won't have similar success against a much weaker EIU team. 

South Dakota State @ Illinois (Illinois)
Illinois did not play as well as I thought they would have last week, but luckily South Dakota State will not test them too much, providing the Illlini time to iron things out.

Purdue @ Rice (Purdue)
This was a tough one for me.  Though it is on the road and Purdue is certainly not playing great football, I like their resolve against MTSU last week, who is an opponent of greater strength than Rice.  Purdue squeks one out... again.

Losers
Alabama @ Penn State (Alabama)
As I type this, I am en route to State College, so it is hard not to pick the Lions.  While Penn State is an improved team, their unsettled QB situation is not conducive to knock off the #2 team in the nation.  Unlike last years 24-3 defeat, the Lions make Alabama sweat.  Final score Alabama 20 - Penn State 17.

Virginia @ Indiana (Virginia)
I don't know how Indiana lost to Ball State.  I think that does not bode well for the Hoosiers this week against a much better team on the road. 

Iowa @ Iowa State (Iowa State) U
My first upset pick of the year.  While I think that Hawkeyes are better than the Cyclones, I don't think they are good enough to overcome the road disadvantage. 

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Week 1 Review

Well I started strong, going 11-0 until the Hoosiers put the first blemish on the record. Oh well, 11-1 is not too shabby.

Week #1: 11-1 (91.7%)
Year (to date): 11-1 (91.7%)
Points: 11

ESPN Big Ten Bloggers

Brian Bennett
Week #1: 11-1 (91.7%)
Year (to date): 11-1 (91.7%)
Points: 11

Adam Rittenberg
Week #1: 9-3 (75%)
Year (to date): 9-3 (75%)

Points: 9

Week 1 Predictions

Record to date: 0-0 (0 %)
Record last week: 0-0 (0%)

Week#1 Predictions
My straight up picks for Week #1.  I'll try not to embarrass myself.  Only 2 Big Ten games on the road should limit any drama.  I think that the conference goes 11-1 this week. 

Winners
Illinois vs Arkansas State
Indiana vs Ball State
Iowa vs Tennessee Tech
Michigan vs Western Michigan
Michigan State vs Youngstown State
Nebraska vs Chattanooga
Northwestern @ Boston College (U)
Ohio State vs Akron
Penn State vs Indiana State
Purdue vs Middle Tennessee State
Wisconsin vs UNLV

Losers
Minnesota @ USC

U - Upset Alert (Game of the week that most likely could result in an upset)

Conference Predictions

2011 Conference Predictions

Big Ten MVP: Kirk Cousins (QB, Michigan State)

Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year: Kirk Cousins (QB, Michigan State)

Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Mauti (LB, Penn State)

Big Ten Champion:  Penn State Nittany Lions over Michigan State Spartans in Big Ten Championship

I hate to seem like a homer, and tried my darndest to not pick Penn State, but defense wins championships.  Penn State will have the most dominant defense in the conference and as a result, I cannot see them losing to the Spartans in Indy. 

Big Ten Darkhorse Team:  Michigan Wolverines

If Michigan's defense can play at least "above-average," WATCH OUT.

2011 Leaders Division Predictions

Leaders Division Predictions

Division Champion: Penn State Nittany Lions (via head-to-head tiebreaker)

T1.)  Penn State Nittany Lions

Offense

The QB situation at PSU has both good and bad aspects.  On the bad side, not having a clear-cut #1 may prevent the offense from truly gelling.  The good side is that having two talented QB’s (both with experience) push each other and provide depth.  My gut tells me Rob Bolden will eventually get the nod.

WR Devon Smith, while at 4.2 – 40 yard dash speed, is a little over-rated in my opinion.  However, WR’s Moye and Brown are tall, rangy, and are both All-Big Ten caliber receivers.  The tandem of Redd and Beachum at RB will give PSU different styles of rushing attacks.  Redd is a burner with great moves.  Beachum is a brusier and in my opinion gives PSU a much needed boost in the Red Zone (where they stunk last year).  While lacking star power, the OL has had a lot of experience minus the RG spot.  They only gave up 12 sacks last year, so I expect them to be one of the best in the conference

Defense

The glaring weakness last year for Penn State was pass rush.  This year, DE’s Crawford and Lattimore return from injury and with help from Devon Still (DT) who I think will be an All-Big Ten selection, should be able to get pressure on the opposing QB’s.  Penn State has the best back seven in the country.  They are both experienced and deep.  LB Mauti reminds of PSU great Paul Posluzney.  CB D’Anton Lynn and S Nick Sukay played solid football last season and both may be All-Big Ten candidates at season’s end.  Penn State’s defense will be the best in the Big Ten (sorry Nebraska). 

Special Teams

PSU has to replace accurate K Colin Wagner, who in several games was heavily relied upon.  Though K/P Anthony Fera was the #2 K  recruit in the country, he starts the season under the cloud of a few off the field incidents.  In any case, the kicking game is shaky for PSU.  I like PSU’s returners and feel that they have a good stable of players who can make plays on special teams in general.

Schedule and Intangibles

Penn State has a Jeckyll and Hyde feel to it.  In eight of the first nine games, PSU will likely be favored.  I think this really will help PSU to prepare and gel for the final three game stretch, which is going to really test this team.  Luckily for Penn State, they get a perfectly placed week off before this stretch.  Alabama is too good, too early to win.  Though I think PSU is better top-to-bottom than Iowa, I’ll stick with the trend that PSU cannot get by the Hawks. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 10 – 2 (7-1)

Joe Paterno is the best predictor of Penn State’s success, and he believed last year that PSU was a year away from being a good team.  I trust Joe’s opinion and if 1999, 2002, 2005 and 2008 are any indication, PSU seems to have a solid contending team about every three years.  I think the Leaders Division will be determined by the winner of PSU-Wisconsin game in Madison. 

Indiana State  – W

Alabama  – L

@ Temple – W

Eastern Michigan - W

@ Indiana – W

Iowa – L

Purdue – W

@ Northwestern – W

Illinois  – W

Bye Week

Nebraska – W

@ Ohio State – W

@ Wisconsin - W

T1.)  Wisconsin Badgers

Offense

I do not buy the Russell Wilson hype.  There… I said it.  He may have been a stud against the “So-called” defenses in the ACC, but Big Ten defenses will limit his success.  Considering injuries at the other 2 QB positions, I think his naming as a starter was more out of desperation.  I love RB’s Ball and White and think that they will churn up turf.  Wisconsin returns WR Toon, but not much else.  I always know Wisconsin can reload at OL, but Moffit and Carimi will not be so easily replaced.  I see a loss of offensive production for the Badgers.

Defense

Though the Badgers lose great DE Watt, they return 3 starters.  They also return LB Borland (from injury) and Taylor.  The loss of Brinkley and Valai hurt at DB, but Henry and Fenelus had a combined 14 pass breakups and 6 interceptions.  I think that the Badger defense ends up being better than last year’s team.

Special Teams

Other than the loss of Gilreath at returner, the Badgers return all of their specialists.  This in my opinion will end up winning one or two close ones for Wisconsin.  K Welch is one of the best in the conference, going 8 for 11 from 40 to 49 yards on field goals. 

Schedule and Intangibles

Wisconsin benefits from home games against Nebraska and Penn State, but are forced to travel on consecutive weeks against Michigan State and the Buckeyes.  The Badger’s bye week is too early to be useful and precedes lowly Indiana.  

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 11 – 1 (7-1)

I think that the Badgers are the most balanced team in the Big Ten, but their offense to me takes a major step back, which will put even more pressure on their defense and special teams.  That said, I picture Wisconsin will be vaulted to the forefront of the national picture after beating Nebraska.  I think that the stage will be set for the Wisconsin – Penn State showdown in Madison during the final weekend of Big Ten play.  I just think the Lions will be rolling at that point and playing free and easy, while the Badgers will be holding on with an unblemished record. 

UNLV  – W

Oregon State  – W
Northern Illinois  – W

South Dakota – W

Nebraska – W

Bye Week

Indiana – W

@ Michigan State – W

@ Ohio State – W

Purdue – W

@ Minnesota – W

@ Illinois – W

Penn State – L

2.)  Illinois Fighting Illini

Offense

I really am impressed with QB Nathan Scheelhaase.  He has the right combination of mobility and passing skills to really be a threat.  And the more experience he gets under his belt, the more dangerous he will be.  Offensive Line is above average, but no real All Big Ten Candidates.  I think the Illini running game should be above average under RB Jason Ford but the Illini lack quality specialists on the outside, which will really limit Scheelhaase’s potential this season.   

Defense

The Illini defense took a major hit via the Draft in the front seven.  I cannot see the DL or LB returning to similar form, so definitely a step back here.  The DB’s are solid and should provide some boost, but I think teams will be able to dominate the Illini on the ground, so the only Illini strength on defense will be somewhat neutralized. 

Special Teams

Derek Dimke is probably one of the three best kickers in the Big Ten.  That certainly will help the Illini out this season.  2 punters return, each with only a single punts worth of experience.  This will put added pressure on the Illini defense.  

Schedule and Intangibles

The Illini benefit from a pretty cushy early schedule.  They open with 5 straight home games and 6 out of 7 to start the year.  A trip to Happy Valley marks their only tough road trip.  The schedule gods were with the Zooker.

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 8-4 (5-3)

A good season by typical Illini standards, but still room for improvement.  Good enough to keep Zook off the chopping block and a step in the right direction.

Arkansas St. – W

South Dakota St. – W

Arizona St. – L

Western Michigan – W

Northwestern – W

@ Indiana – W

Ohio State – L

@ Purdue – W

@ Penn State – L

Bye Week

Michigan – W

Wisconsin – L

@ Minnesota – W

3.) Ohio State Buckeyes

Offense

Pryor comprised of 75 percent of the Buckeye offense.  Obviously, he will not be able to be replaced without some growing pains.  The Ohio State OL is pretty good and Ohio State’s RB’s should be able to have some success.  However, outside of Posey, I feel the Buckeyes lack talent on the outside.  I think that the loss of Pryor and the lack of a solid #2 receiver will make the Buckeye’s one-dimensional. 

Defense

If it wasn’t for what I consider just an above average Buckeye Defense, I’d probably have them go 5-7 for the season.  Ohio State features a good DL, but lose star Heyward.  Ohio State’s LBs are probably one of the weakest groups they have had in years.  Only one projected starter returns in the DB’s.  Even though the Buckeye’s tend to reload, I cannot see how this group lives up to previous standards, regardless of suspensions.

Special Teams

Ohio State lose their starting kicker but return their punter.  Both KR and PR also return.  Though Tressel is gone, it will be important for OSU to maintain good special teams in order to squeak out some close victories a la Tressel-ball. 

Schedule and Intangibles

The Buckeyes get a brutal schedule with road trips to Nebraska, Illinois, and the Big House.  In addition, Michigan State, Nebraska, and Penn State visit Columbus.  I think that all 6 of these schools are better than Ohio State this year, and would be shocked if Ohio State even split these games 3-3.  Add a trip to Miami (though weakened by suspension themselves) and a winning season I think proves difficult. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 7 – 5 (4-4)

I think that the suspensions and loss of Pryor/Tressell will hurt, even though the Buckeyes tend to reload each year.  Before Pryor was dismissed from the team, I felt that the suspensions were going to cost the Buckeyes 3 games.  When Pryor and Tressel were sent packing, I just cannot see the Buckeyes being a dominant force in 2011.  The Buckeye conference title streak comes to a bitter end.

Akron – W

Toledo – W

@ Miami (FL) – L

Colorado – W

Michigan State  - L

@ Nebraska – L

@ Illinois  – W

Bye Week

Wisconsin – L

Indiana – W

@ Purdue - W

Penn State – L

@ Michigan - W

4.) Purdue Boilermakers

Offense

Purdue’s offense never was healthy last year, with 3 ACL injuries to starters.  Injury again appears to have affected the Boiler’s QB, and apparently TerBush is getting the nod as the starter.  RB Bolden returns from injury, but no other real experience returns at RB.  Similarly, Purdue lacks skill and depth at the wideout.  Though the Boiler’s have an above average OL returning, Purdue’s offense is somewhat anemic, especially given the caliber of the Big Ten defenses they’ll face. 

Defense

The Boilermaker defense is projected to return 9 starters, however considering that the Boilermaker defense was one of the worst in the Big Ten, which may not be the best thing.  The loss of DE Kerrigan will hurt as he accounted for nearly one half of the team’s sacks.  I see them taking a step back in the pass rush, which seeps into the other facets of the defense.  I expect the back seven to have a solid year, but will suffer from the lack of a pass rush. 

Special Teams

Purdue returns their punter, kicker, and one returner.  That should help them put some points on the board and play a decent field position game.  

Schedule and Intangibles

The Boilermaker’s schedule blesses them with both Minnesota and Indiana on the schedule.  The second half of the schedule is brutal, getting the toughest competition the Big Ten can throw at it minus Sparty and the Cornhuskers.  A worthless bye week in week 4 doesn’t help them at all. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 5 – 7 (2-6)

The Boilermakers still cannot match the talent that the conference’s big boys bring.  I also think Danny Hope is not what Boiler nation was hoping for.  I think this is Hope’s last year, as the Boiler’s miss the post-season for the 5 straight year. 

Middle Tennessee – W

@ Rice – W

SE Missouri St. – W

Bye Week

Notre Dame – L

Minnesota – W

@ Penn State – L

Illinois  – L

@ Michigan -  L

@ Wisconsin – L

Ohio State – L

Iowa – L

@ Indiana – W

5.)  Indiana Hoosiers

Offense

The loss of Ben Chappell at QB hurts the Hoosiers big time.  The loss of wideouts Doss and Turner will reduce IU’s offensive firepower even more.  The offensive line looks solid but unspectacular, but should open holes for RB Darius Willis.  I see a big drop off in IU’s offensive production this year. 

Defense

The Hoosier defense is prepared to take a major step forward this season.  Five of the front seven return, and though IU’s defense was lacking last season, I think they’ll be able to hold their own against all but the most premiere of Big Ten offenses.  The biggest hole IU faces are in the DB’s which are bound to be somewhat improved, solely due to atrocious play in 2010.

Special Teams

IU’s special teams are somewhere between a weakness and a strength.  In other words, don’t expect  IU to win or lose many games based on special teams.  The loss of Doss as punt returner is going to be a major step back.

Schedule and Intangibles

The Hoosier’s schedule is brutal as only one of their Big Ten opponents was not bowl bound.  IU has the Badgers, the Hawkeyes, the Buckeyes, and the Spartans on the road.  New coach Kevin Wilson appears to be a good choice, but expect a season or two of adjustment prior to any real progress.

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 3 – 9 (0-8)

The Hoosiers were 5 – 7 last season, but only beat one Big Ten team (Purdue in OT).  With a tough schedule, new coach, and loss of Chappell and Doss, I cannot see this team improving. 

Ball State – W

Virginia – L

South Carolina St. – W

@ North Texas – W

Penn State – L

Illinois – L

@ Wisconsin – L

@ Iowa -  L

Northwestern – L

@ Ohio State – L

Bye Week

@ Michigan State – L

Purdue - L

2011 Legends Division Predictions

Legends Division Predictions 

Division Champion: Michigan State Spartans

1.)  Michigan State Spartans

Offense

Sparty bodes one of the best offenses in the conference.  Kirk Cousins is a solid QB that will be a real difference maker in the Big Ten.  Michigan State has probably the best all-around stable of running backs in the conference in Baker, Caper, and Bell.  Complementing the backs are a great set of wideouts, especially seniors Cunningham and Martin.  The OL has more depth, but less experience and is the lone negative on the offensive side of the football.

Defense

The Spartans DL is a veteran unit and will be one of the best in the league.  The back 7 takes a pretty big hit, losing LB’s Jones, Gordan and SS Hyde who were the top 3 tacklers on the team.  I think the production up front will ultimately help Michigan State’s weaker back 7. 

Special Teams

K Conroy is the best statistically in the Big Ten, so the Spartans will be able to cap most drives with points.  They are breaking in a new P, but returner Martin gives the Spartans a solid special teams unit.

Schedule and Intangibles

MSU are the only Big Ten team to catch the Buckeyes with their suspensions.  There schedule overall is favorable, getting Wisconsin and Michigan at home while having to go to Nebraska and Iowa.  I cannot see many teams snuffing out this offensive attack. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 11-1 (7-1)

Michigan State builds off a good season last year and wins the Legends Division.  Wisconsin is a unconventional “trap game” as Sparty is thrusted into national prominence.  Otherwise, the Spartans go unscathed and head to Indy for the Inaugural Big Ten Championship. 

Youngstown State – W

Florida Atlantic – W

@ Notre Dame – W

Central Michigan – W

@ Ohio State – W

Bye Week

Michigan – W

Wisconsin – L

@Nebraska – W

Minnesota – W

@ Iowa – W

Indiana – W

Northwestern – W

2.)  Nebraska Cornhuskers

Offense

I am largely unimpressed with the Cornhusker Offense.  While I believe defense wins championships, you need at least some offensive production.  While QB Martinez shows flashes of greatness, he is too inconsistent and too injury-prone to be a significant threat to the top Big Ten defenses.  RB Burkhead showed production last year, but the Big Twelve’s defensive linemen do not compare to those in the Big Ten.  Lackluster receivers and an inexperienced OL round out an average Cornhusker offense.

Defense

Have you heard of Jared Crick?  If not you will.  Crick is a dominant force on the DL and will draw numerous double teams this season.  Most Big Ten offenses will have little remedy for Crick.  The rest of the DL is solid and experienced.  LaVonte David is a star LB that makes the Cornhusker front 7 a menacing bunch.  The DB’s also are a good group.  The Cornhuskers likely have one of the best defenses in the Big Ten, but need to adjust fast to the new Big Ten schemes they will see. 

Special Teams

Nebraska has one of the least experienced special teams units in the conference.  That doesn’t fair well when you have sub-par offensive production.  Special teams will cost Nebraska at least one game.

Schedule and Intangibles

Nebraska got the shaft in regard to their inaugural season in the Big Ten.  The Cornhuskers play the top echelon of the Big Ten, getting crossover games against PSU, Wisconsin, and the Buckeyes. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 9 – 3 (5-3)

Most writers have picked Nebraska to win the Legends Division.  I do not agree.  I feel that the transition to Big Ten play will not be entirely smooth, as nearly all game film is new. I also do not see Nebraska beating the most balanced offensive and defensive teams in the Big Ten as the Cornhusker Offense has not been exposed to the stout defenses of the Big Ten.

Chattanooga – W

Fresno  State – W

Washington – W

@ Wyoming – W

@ Wisconsin – L

Ohio State – W

Bye Week

@ Minnesota – W

Michigan State – L

Northwestern – W

@ Penn State – L

@ Michigan – W

Iowa – W

3.)  Michigan Wolverines

Offense

Denard Robinson is the best player in the Big Ten.  Period.  Given my own personal hatred of Michigan, that is saying a lot.  He has an afterburner and just does not give second-level defenders a chance to make clean tackles.  His passing is not his strength, but it is threatening enough and it is improving.  Michigan has its best set of wideouts in a long time.  While they don’t have their typical feature tailback, they have a good stable of backs that will be able to have some success.  Michigan’s OL is above average.

Defense

Anything Michigan does on defense will be an improvement.  I think that on all fronts, DL, LB’s and DB’s, Michigan is above average at best with little star power outside of Martin and Woolfork.  Michigan’s season rides solely on the play of the defense. 

Special Teams

Prior to the 2010 season, Michigan had open tryouts for K and struggled going a combined 4-14 in field goals (with none longer than 39 yards).  That weakness put too much pressure on Michigan’s offense. 

Schedule and Intangibles

Michigan’s schedule ranks in the middle of the pack in terms of toughness.  The bye week comes about at mid-season, which I always think is a plus.  Though Michigan draws only 4 away games, they are fairly difficult.

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 7 – 5 (5-3)

Everyone’s heard the saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”  New coach Brady Hoke is stepping in determined to change Michigan’s spread offense implemented by RichRod to a more pro-style offense.  I think this is a huge mistake.  Denard needs to be put in the position to make plays.  The spread is perfect for him and after some early struggles with the pro-style offense in the early part of the season, I see the spread being re-introduced back into the offense…  if they are smart anyway.  Even though I rank them 5^th in the Legends Division, Michigan is my Dark Horse contender.

Western Michigan – W

Notre Dame – L

Eastern  Michigan – W

San Diego State – W

Minnesota – W

@ Northwestern – L

@ Michigan State – L

Bye Week

Purdue – W

@ Iowa - W

@ Illinois – L

Nebraska – L

Ohio State - L

T4.) Iowa Hawkeyes

Offense

James Vandenberg now replaces Ricky Stanzi at QB.  Though Vandenberg was known for having some success against Ohio State back when Stanzi got injured a while back, Vandenberg is no Stanzi.  Iowa’s offensive line returns 4 starters, which is always a good thing.  McNutt at wideout and Coker at tailback definitely give the Hawkeyes some weapons, but after these two, I am not impressed with Iowa’s skill positions.  As the year progresses, I expect the offense to become more formidable, but growing pains will slow the Hawkeyes offensively at the season’s start.  

Defense

No unit in the Big Ten was hit harder by graduation and the draft than Iowa’s defense.  Only 4 starters return.  The loss of Clayborn, Ballard, Klug on DL will hamper Iowa’s pass rush.  Iowa’s best LB Hunter also does not return.  The DB’s are a veteran unit, but their strength will not be able to make up for the weaker front 7.

Special Teams

While Iowa’s K Mike Meyer while certainly help to put some points on the board, a new punter and the loss of Johnson-Koulianos as returner will not help the Hawkeyes win the field position game. 

Schedule and Intangibles

The Hawkeyes catch a big break only getting Indiana, Purdue, and Penn State in their crossover games in conference.  They also get Michigan and Michigan State at home.  Two tough road games in Happy Valley and Lincoln will certainly test this crew.  Iowa’s bye week falls right before conference play, which I see as a huge disadvantage down the stretch. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 8 – 4 (4-4)

The Hawkeyes ended the regular season on a bad spell, dropping the last three games although they beat Missouri in the bowl.  I expect to see the Hawkeyes struggle, especially with 8 straight conference games to end the season.  A generally favorable schedule makes them look better then they truly are, but I expect a return to form in 2012. 

Tennessee Tech – W

@ Iowa State – W

Pittsburgh – W

ULM – W

Bye Week

Penn State – W

Northwestern – L

Indiana – W

@ Minnesota – W

Michigan – L

Michigan State – L

@ Purdue – W

@ Nebraska – L

T4.)  Northwestern Wildcats

Offense

QB Dan Persa is a threat to do some serious damage, but as we saw last year, a Persa-less Wildcat team really struggled.  If Persa can stay healthy and is fully recovered, I expect the Wildcats to continue to be the hardest team to beat week-to-week.  RB Trumpy showed promise but is not as critical to the run game as Persa.  An experienced receiver corps returns and should give some targets for Persa.  4 out of 5 offensive lineman return.  This is one the most veteran offense in the Big Ten.

Defense

Northwestern has a decent defense but it certain lacks where I think it counts.  One player (DE Browne) accounted for nearly two-thirds of the returning QB sacks.  NW also gave up over 5 yards per carry last year which was near the bottom of the Big Ten.  If NW can get some QB pressure from others and can stiffen up against the run, they’ll have a far greater chance of winning games.

Special Teams

A fairly vanilla special teams unit for Northwestern certainly won’t help them win close ball games and win the field position battle. 

Schedule and Intangibles

Northwestern faces a fairly tough slate, including a few non-conference foes that could give them trouble.  An early bye week hurts the Wildcats down the stretch. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 7 – 5 (4-4)

Coach Fitzgerald is one of the best coaches in the Big Ten and nobody does better with less talent than Northwestern.  I always expect them to compete in nearly every game.  The Wildcats always go down swinging!

@ Boston College – W

Eastern Illinois – W

@ Army – L

Bye Week

@ Illinois – L

Michigan – W

@ Iowa – W

Penn State – L

@ Indiana – W

@ Nebraska – L

Rice – W

Minnesota – W

Michigan State - L

 

6.)  Minnesota

Offense

QB Gray is going to cause defensive coordinators fits as he is one of the most athletically gifted players in the Big Ten.  Minnesota has a great set of skill position players, but wideout McKnight is the best of the bunch.  Only 2 lineman return, which will certainly limit the effectiveness of the skill players.

Defense

Minnesota only sacked the QB 9 times last season.  They also gave up 5.3 yards per carry.  While 8 starters are pegged to return, I assume this group will improve.  Considering the offensive firepower in the Legends Division (Northwestern,  Michigan State, and Michigan), the Golden Gopher defense will have its work cut out. 

Preseason All-Out Prediction: 2-10 (0-8)

Minnesota is facing an identity crisis that won’t rectify itself until Coach Kill gets a few of his own recruiting classes in the system. 

@USC – L

New Mexico St – W

Miami (OH) – L

North Dakota St – W

@ Michigan – L

@ Purdue – L

Bye Week

Nebraska – L

Iowa – L

@ Michigan State – L

Wisconsin – L

@ Northwestern – L

Illinois - L