The Final Score - Your source for Big Ten Sports

2011-12-22T10:59:00.001-05:00

Dashing Through Ten Bowls...
Hard to believe we are almost through football season and into B1G hoops season. Time flies when you're having fun. It will be a busy holiday season for the greatest conference in college sports as ten, yes TEN teams are going bowling.

Dan Meyer is picking with me for the first time all season. Which is great EXCEPT I deleted the email with his picks! Sorry Dan. Hope you still have 'em!

Without further ado, my picks (Dan's to follow) and warm holiday greetings for a fantastic Christmas and New Year!

Little Caesar's Bowl - Western Michigan v. Purdue, 12/27 @ 4:30PM on ESPN
Purdue is thrilled to be in bowl season, if not to be going to dank and damp Detroit. A few player no-nos are depleting the roster a bit and you have to expect that the Broncos will be ready to raise the roof at Ford Field. WMU should have beaten Illinois and was really some early big plays against away from a possible to the wire finish with Michigan. I like Western's offense against this defense and sorry Boilers, the first black eye for the Big Ten this bowl season. Western Michigan 34 - Purdue 27.

Insight Bowl - Oklahoma v. Iowa, 12/30 @ 10PM on ESPN
Well, a lot of folks were wondering if Iowa might bite a disinterested OU squad. I was leaning that way until Marcus Coker got the hook for the game. I think this is a chance for Oklahoma to finish strong and make a statement for next season. Iowa just doesn't have the horses, especially with last year's Insight Bowl hero Coker left behind for the trip. What is it with Iowa RBs at this time of year? Closer than expected but an 0-2 hole for the B1G to start the bowl campaign. Oklahoma 38 - Iowa 28.

Meineke Car Care Bowl - Texas A&M v. Northwestern, 12/31 @ 12PM on ESPN
Is this the year the Wildcats break free and get that elusive bowl win (first since 1949)? The Aggies are in a coaching transition and while at time they looked like a Top 15 team this season, the swoons have been maddening. Northwestern fought off a tough start to finish strong and has great motivation in this one. I like Northwestern to get over the hump and beat future SEC member A&M in a barn burner. Northwestern 41 - Texas A&M 38

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl - UCLA v. Illinois, 12/31 @ 3:30PM on ESPN
How about we call this the "Neither Team Deserves to Go" Bowl, or the "This is an example of why 35 bowls is too many" Bowl! Seriously. UCLA is 6-7 and between coaches. Illinois is 6-6, on a six game losing binge and in between coaches. I'm not impressed. I like Illinois to get a win though to build momentum for 2012. Illinois 23 - UCLA 14.

Ticket City Bowl - Houston v. Penn State, 1/2 @ 12PM on ESPNU
Houston went from BCS shoe in to bowl game afterthought. Penn State got the hose from the bowls because of something beyond these players' control. The Cougars are without their head coach. The Nittany Lions are in a similar boat. One team scores at will. The other stops teams at will. With the rust of the down time, defense is usually sharper in these games and I'm going to give the nod to Penn State... although the altercation between teammates that has Matt McGloin questionable is giving me pause. Penn State 17 - Houston 14

Gator Bowl - Florida v. Ohio State, 1/2 @ 1PM on ESPN2Ahh the Urban Meyer Bowl. Given the recent news that Ohio State will not bowl in 2012-13, it makes this that much more important to the Buckeyes. I haven't been at all impressed with the Gators this season and think Boom, Braxton and Posey rule the day. Ohio State 30 - Florida 20.

Outback Bowl - Georgia v. Michigan State, 1/2 @ 1PM on ABC
Much like last year's Capital One Bowl, this is one of the best non BCS matchups of the bowl season. The difference? The teams are very evenly matched in this one. Both lost in their Conference Championship Games, though Michigan State was more stung by their loss than UGA. The motivation for MSU is the 0fer they are riding. As in 0-4 under Coach Dantonio in bowls, and 0-5 in the last five. Motivation is there too to wipe out the stigma of last year's debacle. I think Michigan State turns it on in the second half and puts a nice beating on the SEC for the B1G. Michigan State 31 - UGA 17

Capital One Bowl - South Carolina v. Nebraska, 1/2 @ 1PM on ESPN
This is an interesting one. South Carolina would be the pick if Lattimore was still churning out yards. But I like the way that Nebraska can ride the legs of T-Mart and Burkhead. The Cornhusker D and special teams can also shine. I like a low scoring but huge win for the B1G over the SEC. Nebraska 18 - South Carolina 17

Rose Bowl - Oregon v. Wisconsin, 1/2 @ 5PM on ABC
The Granddaddy of them all. A game I so wish my Spartans were in. And frankly, a game that I think would have been better for the Big Ten matchups wise. It will be interesting to see how the size and strength of UW fares against the speed of the Ducks. UW will probably be without their O.C. but still has Wilson and Ball. Both teams are hungry for a win here and I think it will be a close game for 3 quarters. Problem is, the Badgers are a lot like Stanford in style and I don't think that cuts it in this game. Oregon 45 - Wisconsin 33

Sugar Bowl - Virginia Tech v. Michigan, 1/3 @ 8:30PM on ESPN
This one should be called the "Neither Team Deserves the BCS" Bowl. At least the Hokies got to their conference title game... but I digress. I'm really not sure what to expect here. I think both teams could explode on the other and bring electric QB play to the fold. In what looks to be an even match on both sides of the ball, I'm going with Beamer Ball (Special Teams) to be the difference. Va Tech 30 - Michigan 28.

2011-12-09T11:48:00.000-05:00

Moving On...
It's been almost a week. I am moving on. Well, as much as I can. Putting objectivity aside, that was one of the toughest MSU losses to take. The game itself was fantastic. A college football fan's dream, and proof that teams can re-match and play a meaningful, equally as memorable game. But how it ended? Some of the calls? Bret Bielema's post game press conference? I'm still struggling. I run through about five particular plays over and over and over. I'm ready for the bowl game so I can move on once and for all.

The good news for Spartans fans? This is not a once in a quarter century thing. Our program has arrived, made a statement and is here to stay. That team in green? Not your daddy or granddaddy's MSU. There is talent, depth, speed and athleticism. A team that I think would have matched up better with Oregon than Wisconsin. But that's enough of my shaded viewpoint!

One last on the game, which was a boon for the league. Bret Bielema is a bona fide jerk. Smug, arrogant, cocky, rude. All SEC from the astronomical scores against inferior foes to the way he speaks, acts, etc. Sorry, the guy bugs me. Always has, always will. It was just magnified last Saturday.

The game itself? Best of the day. A classic. One I can watch over and over and over except for the way it sits in my stomach. The toe-tap catch by Keyshawn Martin? Extraordinary and I still wonder how there was enough clear evidence to overturn it? The running into the punter? That guy trains with Bo Ryan. Pretty sad to see a game end on a call like that... especially with as much as they were letting both sides play in the first 58 minutes.

I'm not going down the BCS road. It is clearly time to go to a +1 and open the rest of the bowls up. Michigan does not deserve the Sugar. Nor does Va Tech. But at least Va Tech won their division...

Get Gamm
Going into the bowl season, we have a deadlock at the top. And a first too. Dan gets to pick with the closest to on the margin in the title game. You know the drill Dan!

Western Michigan v. Purdue - Little Caesar's Bowl (12/27)
Oklahoma v. Iowa, Insight Bowl (12/30)
Texas A&M v. Northwestern, Meineke Car Car Bowl (12/31)
UCLA v. Illinois, Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl (12/31)
Houston v. Penn State, TicketCity Bowl (1/2)
Florida v. Ohio State, Urban Meyer, er Gator Bowl (1/2)
Georgia v. Michigan State, Outback Bowl (1/2)
South Carolina v. Nebraska, Capital One Bowl (1/2)
Oregon v. Wisconsin, Rose Bowl (1/2)
Virginia Tech v. Michigan, Sugar Bowl (1/3)

Season Review...
Over the next few weeks, I'll take a look back at what I picked versus what happened. Meantime, Happy Holidays!

2011-12-02T13:49:00.000-05:00

Game time!
We're in rarified air here. The B1G is entering new territory, joining the other big boys with a conference championship game. Some say it's about the money. Some say this game is meaningless because a national title berth is not on the line. Me? I say this is exciting. It's new and very meaningful. After all, the cherished Rose Bowl is at stake and the media can't tell these players this game doesn't matter... It sure as hell does!

As I'm on the road, I will have to keep this short and sweet. Michigan State v. Wisconsin is what the conference wanted, needed and got. These are clearly the two best teams, playing the best football, at the right time. Both have vaunted weapons. Both have ebbed and flowed and improved since that fateful October night. All of that means this will be an absolute classic.

The 9.5 spread is out of line, based on Vegas thinking MSU only won the first meeting on fluke play. Never mind that MSU went on a 31-3 run after going down 14 early. Or the big lead it squandered late. At least in their minds...

This game will be as billed. And it will have more mood swings - pardon the pun - than a teenage menstral cycle! Ball and Wilson, Cousins and Cunningham will all have moments but it will be a Trenton Robinson INT in the end zone with less than two minutes to play that will seal the Spartans first Rose Bowl bid in 23 years.

Michigan State 31 - Wisconsin 27

Phats says... Sorry Andy and Spartans fans, I truly believe the Badgers are the best team in the conference. Neutral field Badgers will right the wrongs that did them in in East Lansing and head back to the Rose Bowl to represent the Big Ten. Wisonsin 31 - Michigan State 17

2011-11-28T13:30:00.000-05:00

It's Go Time!
T-minus five days until we all get the rematch we desired after one of the greatest games of the season. Michigan State versus Wisconsin. 60 more minutes of heart-stopping, hair-pulling, hair-graying football madness. I say, bring it on. Everyone out there talks about how the Spartans have to face an angry Wisconsin team again. I see it as both having a difficult task. Both teams are hot. Both teams want this championship - bad. Both teams have to stare down the barrel at the opponents' strengths. As an MSU guy, I can't wait. As a B1G guy, I really can't wait... It's GO time!

The Good...
Michigan State. The media were convinced that MSU had nothing to play for. Obviously, they don't take Mark Dantonio for his word or values. The Spartans won a tough game, on the road to clinch the first ever back to back 10-win seasons in program history.

Michigan. Good for the Wolverines. The seniors finally got a monkey off their back in a very exciting game. It was a lot higher scoring than I expected but that win puts Michigan back on the map.

Wisconsin. What a way to end the regular season. A beat-down of Penn State in the decisive game. Impressive!

Minnesota. I've dogged the Gophers all season. They sealed Coach Zook's fate. Nicely done and notice served for 2012...

Nebraska. Cornhusker fans are going to wonder where this was against NU and Michigan. A solid win that means a lot for bowl positioning.

Purdue. Bowl eligible after a dog fight with rival Indiana. Purdue probably should have seven or eight wins but this is a god start for next year...

The Bad...
Northwestern. Not really a bad performance all together and certainly a nice run to end the season. But they have to go here after a loss...

Ohio State. See Northwestern. Impressive performance really and an overthrow away from perhaps another win in the series. Look out for tOSU next year, especially with Urban at the helm.

Iowa. An appropriate end to a topsy turvy season. Iowa looked great and below average all at the same time this year...

Indiana. Giving the Hoosiers a nod for effort here. IU is young and will improve, but quick enough to keep Kevin Wilson around?

The Ugly...
Penn State. Sorry Nits but you flat out sucked at UW. Turnovers, dropped passes, untimely errors, phantom tackles. But I do feel for what this team has gone through...

Illinois. Way to get your coach fired. From 6-0 to 6-6. OUCH. Could be home for the holidays despite being one of the first to clinch a bowl berth.

Bowl Predictions...
We'll know the Rose Bowl slot after Saturday. I guess I am tipping my hand a bit with my pick, but tune in later this week for the deets anyway. And Phats, you went 6-0 and get to pick the big game with me...

Rose Bowl - Michigan State
Sugar Bowl - Michigan
Capital One Bowl - Wisconsin
Outback Bowl - Nebraska
Insight Bowl - Penn State
Gator Bowl - Ohio State
Meineke Car Care Bowl - Iowa
TicketCity Bowl - Northwestern
Little Caesars Bowl - Purdue
At Large - Illinois

2011-11-25T19:03:00.000-05:00

Season's end...

Well, at least the end of the regular season. Still plenty of fun to be had on the gridiron. Sorry for the lateness of the post... had this in draft and well, holiday got in the way!

Iowa at Nebraska, Noon EST (ABC)

Nebraska needs a bounce back and gets one at home. Iowa isn't what they've been. Nebraska 27 - Iowa 14.

Phats says ... Nebraska 28 Iowa 24- Tempted to take the Hawkeyes, but Nebraska won't lay an egg two straight weeks especially at home

Michigan State at Northwestern , Noon EST (BTN)

Believe it or not, MSU has plenty to play for. Northwestern does as well, which will make this an interesting game. Grab some turkey soup and keep an eye on this one. Michigan State 31 - Northwestern 24.

Phats says ... Michigan State 35 Northwestern 21- Another solid season for the Spartans, this is a tune up for Indy

Ohio State at Michigan, Noon EST (ABC)

THE game has little luster this year. The bigger question is, Urban yes or Urban no? Most are predicting Michigan to walk on OSU and get some revenge for seven straight losses. I'm thinking not so fast my friends. At least it won't be as much a blow out as thought. Michigan 23 - Ohio State 20.

Phats says ... Michigan 38 Ohio State 17- OSU one dimensional, UM defense so much better this year.

Purdue at Indiana, 3:30 EST (BTN)

Battle for the Old Oaken Bucket won't be a battle for long. Purdue 38 - Indiana 14.

Phats says ... Purdue 42 Indiana 17- Close thru the first half, and for a change the Boilers light up the third quarter, scoring for the first time since the PSU game. Bringing the Bucket back where it belongs West Lafayette!! Boiler Up!

Illinois at Minnesota, 3:30 EST (BTN)

Boring. Illinois 34 - Minnesota 20

Phats says ... Minnesota 17 Illinois 14- I really am not sure why I am picking this upset, but Illini have really struggled, Gophers have played so much better and it's at Minnesota.

Penn State at Wisconsin, 3:30 EST (ESPN)

For weeks, I have been predicting an MSU - PSU title game. But I think Wisconsin woke up in time last week and has just enough offense to put the Nits to bed and make Delany happy. UW 24 - PSU 20.

Phats says ... Wisconsin 31 Penn State 17- I think the Badgers are still the best team in the Big Ten, if only special teams and a couple of hail mary's wouldn't have done them in they'd be playing for a chance a National title still. At least they will set up a solid Big Ten title game with a win here.

2011-11-22T12:59:00.000-05:00

Halfway There...
We are precisely halfway to knowing the participants in the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game. Michigan State tore through Indiana like a tornado through a trailer park, while Michigan handed it's rival the Legends crown by systematically dismantling everything that was good with the Nebraska Cornhuskers this year. That leaves a 3:30 tussle between embattled Penn State and Wisconsin for the other half and a much clearer bowl picture.

The Good...
Michigan State. Have to start with the Spartans who battled slow starts and sluggish performances in recent Senior Day games only to come out and flat out own Indiana in all phases from the opening kick. Congrats to Legends Division Champs MSU.

Michigan. Wow. It seems like more than ever the Wolverines have answered the lingering question - are they really back. Yep. But we'll know for sure after nemesis OSU comes to town...

Iowa. Nice bounce back win for the Hawkeyes. Most expected a dud, but Iowa played inspired and is making a push for a good bowl berth yet again.

Penn State. Impressive. Love what the offense is doing to shake things up and that D is outstanding.

Northwestern. Ho hum. Kinda boring but now bowl eligible and on a roll. P-Fitz does a lot with a little every year.

Wisconsin. The Badgers looked ripe for the picking early but persevered through the doldrums to walk away with the win and set up a shot at the title game.

The Bad...
Purdue. The tough luck Boilers can't string it together this year. They are still a win away from a bowl berth too... damn that blocked kick at Rice!

Ohio State. The Buckeyes rose to the occasion at times on Saturday but I expected more after the Purdue loss. Is there anything in the tank for Michigan?

Minnesota. The Gophers are still way too up and down, but do have a glimmer of hope down the road. IF Coach Kill can stay healthy.

The Ugly...
Indiana. Atrocious. Awful. Ugh!

Nebraska. What the? So much for playing for the BCS. THAT was AWFUL.

Illinois. All I can say is what the? Seriously. 6-0 to 6-5 that fast? Sorry, but that goes on the coach. Any hot names out there for the Illinois job?

Bowl Predictions...
No sense belaboring the divisions anymore since only two teams remain in the fight. So, here are my picks for the bowls heading into our last week of the season.

Rose Bowl - Michigan State
BCS At Large - Michigan
Capital One - Wisconsin
Outback - Penn State
Insight - Nebraska
Gator - Iowa
Meineke Car Care - Ohio State
TicketCity - Northwestern
Little Caesars - Purdue
At Large - Illinois

Get Gamm...
If only Phats hadn't gone homer, he would be a perfect 6-0! I retake the top spot overall but due to being closer on the tiebreaker, Phats get a week win and picks along with me. Games start Friday Phats so get 'em to me ASAP. Happy Thanksgiving!

Iowa at Nebraska (Friday)
Michigan State at Northwestern
Ohio State at Michigan
Purdue at Indiana
Illinois at Minnesota
Penn State at Wisconsin (Game of the Week)

2011-11-18T14:13:00.000-05:00

Nitty Gritty
We're down to it. Go time. The nitty gritty. Three teams control their destinies, a few more are hoping for some miracles. The ESPN B1G bloggers break it all down quite well for us today.

Minnesota at Northwestern, Noon EST (BTN)
Don't just assume that the Gophers are playing out the string. Minnesota is trying to build a foundation for a rebound in 2012 and this would be a good way to get there. Meanwhile, Northwestern is seeking a sixth win and this week is easier than the finale (MSU). This will be a high-scoring, entertaining affair, but in the end, the Wildcats have more to play for and get the W. NU 34 - Minnesota 27.

Mayo says ... Minnesota is starting to figure out how to play some tough football and Northwestern is showing what it could have been all season. I really do like the fight that I’m seeing in both clubs, but right now Northwestern has shown me more and will pull out a nice win for Fitz. Minnesota 22 – Northwestern 31

Indiana at Michigan State, Noon EST (BTN)I'm bummed that my bad back has me missing Senior Day in EL. This class has left a remarkable set of memories for fans, students and alumni alike and has set a stage of high expectations that I truly love and appreciate. Indiana is building for the future but doesn't have the firepower or the defense to get in the way of a 14th straight home win for Sparty. Michigan State rolls with two 100-yard plus rushers. Michigan State 41 - Indiana 14.

Mayo says ... In the Spartans protected rivalry for the Brass Spittoon. Although Indiana has played much better lately, this Spartan defense is one of the best and most physical in the land. Defense wins this one big. Indiana 12 – Michigan State 31

Nebraska at Michigan, Noon EST (ESPN) - Game of the Week
Talk about a toss up. Both teams sport spectacular running games and weak passing attacks. Either defense can step up on any given Saturday. That may leave it to special teams. I think Nebraska has the definite upper hand in this area. But, the Wolverines have a new found advantage at home since the suites keep the noise inside. I like an OT thriller with Michigan sealing the deal for rival MSU. Michigan 38 - Nebraska 37 in 3 OTs.

Mayo says ... A lot of writers in Detroit are saying these two teams are very similar. In some ways I see the point, but Michigan’s offense just seems to have peaked and although this team is much improved, the likes of Nebraska have not been seen this season. Although I’m sure the Michigan D will have a pretty decent second half, Nebraska’s Rex Burkhead is a menacing runner who I envision running wild enough in the first half to get a decent lead that will hold throughout the game. Nebraska 27 – Michigan 24.

Iowa at Purdue, Noon EST (BTN)
This one is very interesting. Iowa is reeling after the smackdown at home last weekend. Purdue is sky high after an improbable OT win over Ohio State. Iowa has the six requisite wins, Purdue is one shy. Iowa is playing for positioning and Purdue always has the Bucket game next week to get to six. I think Iowa will be motivated to silence some of the demons and get a nice road win. Sorry Phats, I'm not going with you this time! Iowa 27 - Purdue 23

Mayo says ... Both teams need to win this one, Iowa has shown some flashes, and Purdue has as well. This game will show what Purdue has left after taking down Ohio State last weekend. Iowa is a head scratcher this year, dominating some opponents and then losing to Minnesota. I’m gonna go all Phats this week and predict a Boiler win. Iowa 23 – Purdue 29.

Wisconsin at Illinois, Noon EST (ESPN2)
Hmmmm, another very intriguing game. Illinois has gone from 6-0 to Fire Zook in a heartbeat. Wisconsin is rolling again and has an eye on a rematch in Indy. The once touted Illini D is looking very soft right now while Wilson and Ball and Toon are white hot. Wisconsin rolls to set up a win and in game with Penn State. Wisconsin 33 - Illinois 13.

Mayo says ... I don’t remember a better hand-picked successor ever coming along than Bret Bielema. Usually those don’t work out very good, but he has put together one of the most solid programs to follow a legend that I have ever seen. Illinois has been slipping since starting 6-0 and that slope just turned into the edge of an abyss at this point. Queue up ‘On Wisconsin’ several times today and see if Montee Ball can break some more rushing records. Wisconsin 51 – Illinois 24.

Penn State at Ohio State, Noon EST (ABC)
Call this one the Shame Bowl. Had OSU simply made it's PAT last week, this would be even bigger in the Leaders race. Still, OSU can make a dent in the title chase. Penn State needs to win and see UW upset to clinch Indy. But how focused is the team? Maybe it will do them good to leave State College. OSU is motivated to play and takes advantage of a shaky Penn State offense. Ohio State 20 - Penn State 14.

Mayo says ... A spectacular matchup most years, this one is tainted with scandal on both sides of the field. Ohio State couldn’t wait to start the season this year to get the bad taste of the previous 9 months out, and now Penn State finally gets to get out of Happy Valley and all the media attention that has fallen on them. In what could be the only matchup between Luke Fickell and Tom Bradley, I’m going with Ohio State in a nail-biter. Penn State 13 – Ohio State 17.

2011-11-16T13:25:00.000-05:00

Crunch Time
A little late this week. On the rack with a bulging disc in L5-S1 territory. Not fun! But I figured in between pain killers I should check in seeing how it is definitely crunch time in the Big Ten. Some key losses - and victories - last Saturday helped clear up the title race picture... well, kinda sorta. And it put to rest the 24/7 PSU coverage that was all consuming.

Speaking of which, great scene at Beaver Stadium with the teams coming together at midfield. Keeps it all in perspective. Also the game reminds us, these players are collateral damage. So any talk about canceling the season, as ludicrous and down right stupid as it sounded, can go away too...

The Good...
Michigan State. What an impressive answer to last season's debacle in Iowa City. Cousins atoned for his shocking failure in 2010 and MSU solidified its position as Legends leader.
Michigan. Okay, I'm buying more and more into that D. Vastly improved over a season ago. And the run game was sound. The coaching staff finally figured out they need the right QB to truly become a two-dimensional team and stopped trying to throw so much.
Nebraska. No one talked much about the task the Cornhuskers faced last week as the first Penn State opponent post program apocalypse! NU fared very well and stayed right in the race, while also making the Leaders Division race a little more fuzzy.
Northwestern. Nice win to keep up the momentum. But beating Rice won't get you much more than that from this blogger!
Purdue. Nicely done. When another devastating defeat seemed imminent, a big right paw bats away the oft taken for granted PAT to send the game to OT where the Boilers once again shocked the Buckeyes and threw a monkey wrench into the race!
Wisconsin. Left for dead after two straight losses, the Badgers control their destiny and sent a message in the romp over rival Minnesota: despite the losses, Wilson and Ball never slowed down and can hardly be contained...

The Bad...
Iowa. Despite some head scratching losses, the Hawkeyes controlled their own destiny. Note the past tense. Iowa was bullied and smacked around in a defeat that nearly resembled the beat down Iowa put on MSU a season ago.
Penn State. Hat's off for the effort of the players, fans, etc. But the lack of offense bit the Nittany Lions once again and may well keep them from Indy.
Ohio State. Squarely in the race, OSU inexplicably sleep walked through the first 59 minutes, scored and then had the simplest of plays blown up, leading to a loss and all but NO chance at a division title.
Minnesota. The Gophers are improving and will be dangerous next year. The fake field goal was sweet. But that was about the only bright spot.

The Ugly...
Iowa fans. Booing injured players? Nice show of sportsmanship there. Way to send a message to young kids at the game and watching on TV. Flopping in the 4th quarter of a close game? Maybe. But in the 3rd quarter of a blowout? Please.
Illinois. That offense - or lack thereof - is quite possibly the nail in the Ron Zook career coffin.

Division Races and Bowl Projections
The races took some funky turns last week, notably in the Leaders Division. With two weeks to play, here are my thoughts on how things will shake out...

Leaders Division:
Penn State and Wisconsin are in the driver's seat. They go head to head in the last week in what should be a defacto title game. Both have tough roadies this weekend, but we should get a doozy in the final week of regular season play.

I put Wisconsin at 80% likely to represent in Indy; Penn State at 20%. OSU and Purdue need way too much help and are playing for bowl position not the division title.

Legends Division:
Michigan State is the only team that controls it's own destiny. Nebraska and Michigan play an elimination game this week. Iowa needs a lot of help.

I put Michigan State at 80% likely to make it to Indy; Nebraska at 19% and Michigan at 1%. Michigan needs to win against NU and OSU and see MSU lose twice more. Nebraska just needs to win out and get one MSU loss. Iowa has really no shot.

Bowl Projections:
Looks like we will have a whopping ten teams eligible this year. Shows the depth of the conference if not a clear hierarchy.

Big Ten Title Game: Wisconsin over Michigan State
Rose Bowl: Wisconsin
BCS Bowl: Nebraska
Capital One Bowl: Michigan State
Outback Bowl: Michigan
Insight Bowl: Ohio State
Gator Bowl: Penn State
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Iowa
Ticket City Bowl: Northwestern
Little Caesars Bowl: Purdue
At Large: Illinois

Get Gamm
We all went 4-2 with Mayo closest on the tiebreaker...

Minnesota at Northwestern
Indiana at Michigan State
Nebraska at Michigan (Game of the Week)
Wisconsin at Illinois
Iowa at Purdue
Penn State at Ohio State

2011-11-10T13:03:00.000-05:00

Toughest Sports Week Ever
I'm like everyone else this week... shocked, disgusted, horrified, disappointed, dismayed, sick to my stomach over what is going down in State College. I've read and watched and listened to about every piece of news on this tragically historic "event" all week. And the more I read, the worse it gets.

Lost in all of the angst and anger, chaos and disappointment and pointed commentary towards Paterno, McQueary, Curley, Spanier, et al is who we really need to be infuriated with - Jerry Sandusky. I've watched this become a JoePa thing. It isn't. It shouldn't be. This is a Sandusky thing first and foremost. And what about the victims? What must all of this do to them? The focus on Paterno has turned this into a circus and taken the light off the fact that the accused is walking free right now, while the victims are running the gamut of emotions. It leaves me incredulous. Speechless really...

Rick Reilly of ESPN has one of the better stories right now. And with that, I'll leave it to the thousands who are already covering this event. My parting wish, a country resets its focus on what is right and wrong, how we were founded and on prayer and faith to put us on a path to healing. To paraphrase Matt Millen, what kind of people are we that we can't stop these sorts of things from happening...

Get Gamm
It doesn't feel right to pick games. But at the same time, the show must go on. I feel for the PSU players, caught up as collateral damage. How will they respond? I can't even imagine...

Rice at Northwestern, Noon EST (BTN) - Yawn. This is why I hate going out of conference in the middle of the season. Rice beat Purdue but hasn't done much else. NU is riding high but has some work left and this really becomes a must-win when it comes to a bowl berth. The Wildcats sleep early but awake late and get to .500. Northwestern 31 - Rice 14.

Ohio State at Purdue, Noon EST (BTN) - Hmmm, Purdue looked good for a while before absolutely taking it on the chin at Michigan and then Wisconsin. The Boilers need two more wins to go bowling. Ohio State had the predictable hangover against IU last week. OSU is getting better by the week and is still very much in the title chase. Most think this will be close. Sorry Dan and Phats, I don't agree. Ohio State 41 - Purdue 17

Michigan State at Iowa, Noon EST (ESPN2) - I was on record last week with my UM - Iowa pick that these noon games in the central time zone are no friend to the eastern time zone schools. That said, Michigan State can't - and won't care - when this game is being played. The green and white have not won in Iowa City since 1989 and were slobberknockered there last year. These teams control their own destiny. I like a classic battle a la 2008 and 2009 but a victory 22 years in the waiting for MSU. Michigan State 24 - Iowa 21.

Nebraska at Penn State, Noon EST (ESPN) - How on earth do I pick this one? Nebraska is in a must win situation. Penn State is in a no win situation. The Huskers can't afford another loss. The Nits want to win and get out of dodge. Trips to C-bus and Mad-town look easy compared to what faces Penn State this week. Will the players have focus, energy, will to win, etc? Many of them say so because they've been doubted and knocked down a peg all season long. This will be an uncomfortable game for both teams. Penn State might need it more just to try and start a healing process. But as much as I was sure that would happen before, I am not so sure anymore. Nebraska 20 - Penn State 9.

Wisconsin at Minnesota, 3:30 EST (BTN) - The Badgers got back to UW football last week in a pasting of Purdue. Minnesota is looking better each week as Gray gets fully established. We saw what happened with the battle for Floyd... but this won't go that way. UW is oodles better than Iowa. Wisconsin rolls. UW 45 - Minnesota 20.

Michigan at Illinois, 3:30 EST (ABC) - This one is all about bowl positioning. Illinois has fallen on hard times. Michigan suffered a tough loss at the hands of Iowa last week and is in danger of totally falling out of the Big Ten race. These teams played an epic in Ann Arbor last year. Don't expect quite the fireworks, but do expect Illinois to come off a bye week ready to right the ship. Michigan falls out of the Legends race... Illinois 27 - Michigan 24.

Once again, thoughts and prayers with the victims of this outrageous act by Jerry Sandusky...

2011-11-07T12:34:00.000-05:00

Game On!
Is anyone else as excited as I am that we have 12 teams and two divisions in the B1G? We have seven of 12 teams in contention for the Big Ten title game. No way that happens in the old world. While the parity that seems to exist means no national title contender, the race for Indy and the Roses alone is great theater.

And while the debate rages on over whether 'Bama and LSU was the greatest game of this century and should meet again in New Orleans this coming January, let's remember that the Big Ten has produced two or three of the very best games this season and has more depth than the SEC.

Speaking of "the big game" - as a college football fan, I thought it was great. It was edge of your seat, cringe before the big hits, as hyped and advertised exciting. I personally don't mind if the teams meet again, but do think that opens up way too many what if scenarios. Plus, sequels are rarely ever as good as the first release.

Back to the Big Ten, in a weekend short on great match-ups, we had several thrilling games. Indiana and Minnesota gave it their all, Northwestern stung Nebraska, and Iowa held off a late charge. The better news? We have three more weeks of this remaining. Game on!

The good...
Iowa. A week after the biggest head scratcher since, well, Iowa State, the Hawkeyes got a huge win against Michigan and find themselves in control - yes, that's right - in control of their Legends destiny. Minnesota and Indiana. Both were big time double digit dogs and scared the pants off of their home team opponents. Moral victories for both. Northwestern. Wow. The Wildcats made moving the ball on the black shirts look a lot easier than MSU did a week prior. Hangover for the 'huskers? Apparently. Wisconsin. Back in style. In a BIG way.

The bad...
Michigan State and Ohio State. Proof positive that you can't take anyone for granted, ever. While the home field edge in this league is crazy big, you can't sleep on teams that have nothing to lose. Michigan. Way too many dropped passes and mistakes to win on the road. The Wolverines need a lot of help now to win the division.

The ugly...
Someone has to be here. Purdue. A few weeks ago, people were high on a defense that was making noise. Uh, maybe it was the lackluster offenses that D was facing. Nebraska. It was a close game, but to lose at home a week after gaining firm control of the Legends race? U-G-L-Y you ain't got no alibi... Speaking of which, I am not sure I've ever read something so haneous and disgusting and troubling as the accounts and allegations against former PSU staffer Jerry Sandusky. Could this be the most unfortunate way to end what should otherwise be a most celebrated coaching era in college football?

The race...
Ohhh things got interesting with that Northwestern upset in Lincoln. Four teams are in play in the Legends Division, two control their own destiny, including an Iowa team left for dead after the disaster in Minny. The Leaders Division race stayed the same but gets very interesting the last three weeks as well. No sense in me setting the table for who's who and what's what, since ESPN did a great job, but I will offer my views on what I think will play out, followed by my bowl projections.

Legends Division:
Already noted that MSU and Iowa control their destiny. But how about this for one possible, crazy, wild scenario?

Iowa beats Michigan State. Michigan beats Nebraska. Nebraska beats Iowa. The four win the rest of their games not including these head to heads. Who goes? Michigan State in a tiebreaker with Michigan. And this is just one of many scenarios. Hang on tight!

Michigan State. Chances of winning the division? 60%
Iowa. Chances of winning the division? 20%
Nebraska. Chances of winning the division? 10%
Michigan. Chances of winning the division? 10%

Leaders Division:
Penn State is obviously in control here but the road games scare me a lot. I think the week off helps with Nebraska coming in, but the Nebraska must win factor swings this game a bit too. The scenarios aren't quite as crazy here, but with PSU playing OSU and UW to close the season, it gets interesting in a hurry.

Penn State. Chances of winning the division? 60%
Ohio State. Chances of winning the division? 25%
Wisconsin. Chances of winning the division? 15%

Weekly Bowl Projections...I'm sticking with Michigan State over Penn State for the Big Ten Championship and MSU in the Rose Bowl. The rest could get very interesting with bowls having tough choices to make.

Rose Bowl - Michigan State @ 11-2
At Large BCS - Wisconsin (Badgers win out to claim this spot) @ 10-2
Capital One Bowl - Penn State @ 10-3
Outback Bowl - Nebraska @ 9-3
Gator Bowl - Michigan @ 9-3
Insight Bowl - Ohio State @ 8-4
Meineke Car Care Bowl - Iowa @ 7-5
Ticket City Bowl - Illinois @ 7-5
Little Caesars Bowl - Northwestern @ 6-6

Get Gamm...
Only Dan was able to keep up with me this week, also going 4-1. But I edged him on the tiebreaker so I pick solo again.

Nebraska at Penn State (Game of the Week)
Michigan State at Iowa
Ohio State at Purdue
Rice at Northwestern
Wisconsin at Minnesota
Michigan at Illinois

2011-11-04T12:39:00.000-04:00

Calm before the storm
Two teams have the week off to prepare for the stretch run - Penn State and Illinois - so the schedule isn't as good as it will be. Nonetheless, every game matters in this new Big Ten world, and I have to say, it makes for more exciting times. For kicks, we'll also pick the latest "Game of the Century" pitting LSU versus Alabama. Since most have their picks in, it won't be our Game of the Week, although it should be...

Minnesota at Michigan State, Noon EDT (BTN)
The Spartans have likened this one, and all four remaining regular season games, to the playoffs. The Gophers are riding into East Lansing on a bronze pig named Floyd. MSU is getting healthier of late, Minnesota more banged up. Michigan State laid an offensive, offensive egg in Lincoln. Minnesota shocked its rival at home. The Golden Gophers bring another multi-talented QB into the fold in Gray and have some confidence. But I expect to see a steady diet of Pound, Green, Pound mixed in with some new wrinkles in the passing game and a positive Spartans response to the loss at Nebraska. Michigan State 38 - Minnesota 10.

Indiana at Ohio State, Noon EDT (BTN)
If ever there was a time for the Hoosiers not to play OSU, this is it. IU is playing a true freshman QB. The top two receivers are done for the year. The defense can't stop a thing. Ohio State has new Leaders life after the stirring win over Wisconsin. While a bit of a hangover is to be expected, especially considering the opponent, and injuries are mounting for key Buckeyes, the scarlet and gray are making strides and want to have a say in the Big Ten race. It might be tighter than it should be for a quarter or so, but Braxton and the Bucks roll the hapless Hoosiers. Ohio State 42 - Indiana 3.

Michigan at Iowa, Noon EDT (ESPN) - GAME OF THE WEEK
I'm not speaking from true player or coach experience here, but these 11am central kicks for teams that reside in the eastern time zone, well, suck. You're on the road to begin with, playing when you should be watching Game Day or eating breakfast and too boot, Michigan is doing so against a very agitated and angry Iowa team. It doesn't make for the best situation for the Wolverines. A few things are on the line here. Iowa needs a win to stay in the race. So does Michigan. Iowa needs to get the bad taste of last week out of its mouth. Michigan wants to continue to silence the critics who predicted a typical M collapse after another loss to Michigan State. I am truly on the fence with this one. Michigan pounded Purdue on the ground last week and I think the Boilers have a better D than Iowa. Iowa is hungry and often bounces back well (see MSU last year). Plus, the road teams have been indefensibly poor this season (MSU, Wisconsin, Illinois). For some reason, I see Iowa pulling this one out in OT. Iowa 41 - Michigan 35

Northwestern at Nebraska, 3:30 EDT (BTN)
I have to say, I'm pretty disappointed in the Northwestern season to date. Three wins, all over teams with putrid records and not enough oompf to beat any of the big boys. Nebraska meanwhile, has been rock solid. The only hiccup was the loss at Wisconsin and that one was turned on three turnovers in a short period of time. The defense has gotten better, the offense is tough to defend and the Cornhuskers are hungry. Thing is, the schedule is back loaded and gets tough quick. This is a potentially tricky game too just because Northwestern has nothing to lose and Nebraska has so much to play for. Still, Lincoln is an intimidating place to play and the Wildcats don't have the D to slow the Big Red down. Nebraska 45 - Northwestern 24.

Purdue at Wisconsin, 3:30 EDT (ABC)
I would not want to be Purdue this weekend. Wisconsin is two huge mistakes in the secondary from being potentially unblemished and in the national title hunt. Purdue got bull whipped by Michigan last weekend and took a step back after a few nice moves forward. The home cooking at Camp Randall is just what the doctor ordered for the Badgers. UW needs to win out and hope for some help to get to Indy but you can bet has its sights set on just that. Two straight losses didn't make Russell Wilson any worse, even if the Heisman talk has quieted. UW runs wild. Wisconsin 49 - Purdue 17

LSU at Alabama, 8pm EDT (CBS)
I love ESPN and their coverage of college football, but I'm sorry, the CBS college football jingle is the best in the business. I also love the announcing crew of Lundquist and Danielson. No excuses for going to bed on this game as we gain an hour with the fall back to standard time at 2am Sunday. Big games are often over-hyped and under perform, but I don't see that here. These teams are so evenly matched that it comes down to a few things. Special teams. Big advantage to LSU here. Home field. Obvious advantage to Saban's boys. It will be a lot like the No. 1 OSU vs. No. 2 UM game a few years back but with less points scored. I like the Mad Hatters' (or Lesticles if you prefer) swashbuckling style. But having seen first hand the NFL caliber team that Alabama fields, and knowing Nick Saban is the best in the business, I'm going with Bama.
Tide 17 - Tigers 14

2011-10-31T11:05:00.000-04:00

Four Weeks Left, Six Teams Standing
Well, how's that for clarity? Michigan State's magic ran out with a thud in Lincoln. But by late afternoon, what looked like a four team race in the Legends was down to three after Iowa inexplicably lost to rival Minnesota in maybe the biggest shocker of the day in college football. Penn State dug out another workman like win to firmly plant itself in the Leaders Division driver's seat. But that only after Ohio State made a statement and turned that division into a race.

Hang on tight! It's going to be a wild ride. Six teams - three per division - will vie for a trip to Indy. I realize more are technically still alive, but I see this as six teams with sights on two slots. More on who has what left and who I predict where later...

The good...
Ohio State. Wow. I didn't see anything but that last 5 minutes and that was enough. I felt like I was watching MSU - UW all over again. Hat's off to Braxton Miller - who has now officially arrived. And notice served to the rest of the league. Penn State. Ugly but who cares? JoePa climbs to the tip top of the Division 1 leaderboard and the Nits do it like they have all year long - with defense and resilience. Nebraska. Finally, a dominating performance from that black shirt defense. The Spartans never figured out how to beat it and the Cornhuskers made Cousins and MSU pay dearly. Michigan. Solid. Done the old fashioned way - on the ground, with authority. Minnesota. I thought for sure the Gophers were part of the Suck for Luck campaign! Seriously though, vote of confidence this week for Coach Kill and a nice win to retain Floyd. Northwestern. The points were flying in Bloomington as the 'cats hit their stride on offense. The defense still worries me but it was a win to stop the bleeding.

The bad...
Wisconsin. For all the tremendous spirit the Badger offense showed again in a late, improbable comeback, the secondary was torched again. This time losing sight of a Buckeye receiver with 20 seconds left. Illinois. That makes three tough losses in a row with a schedule that still has some toughies. Really hard when one of the most reliable kickers in the country doinks one that would have sent the game to OT. Michigan State. Part I. The Spartans also belong in the ugly category. The defense was not to blame - except for some very untimely penalties. State flat out ran out of gas and it showed. And that play calling? Come on! Purdue. After looking like they were going to be a part of this race and jumping out early, the Boilers were steamrolled in Ann Arbor.

The ugly...
Michigan State. Part II. Uh, can we have an adjustment please? Nebraska dared MSU to run up the gut, and when the Spartans did, they gained yards in chunks. Yet State chose to try and beat double coverage all day and it never worked. Blueprint for the next four weeks? Iowa. That was fugly. Just when you think Iowa is going to rise up and be a part of the race, the Hawkeyes play uninspired football and lose a rivalry game to a very bad Minnesota team. The Hawkeyes are still a key player, with games against all three Legends leaders remaining. Indiana. Beating a dead horse is getting old but were the Hoosiers really this gutted and fundamentally unsound when Wilson came in? There is a glimmer of hope in 38 points on offense. But that was against one of the softest defenses in the conference.

The race...
Back to the very interesting Big Ten race. Nope, we won't get a participant in the national title game this year. Why? The depth in the conference is very good. There are six top 25 worthy teams and each of them will have a huge say in how this thing ends up. Here is a look at what is left for each team, the probability of a trip to Indy (my odds) and who goes where in the bowl scheme of things.

Leaders Division:
Penn State - Currently 5-0 in conference play and with a two game lead on the pack. Penn State has a bye this week, followed by a visit from Nebraska and trips to Ohio State and Wisconsin. The Nitanny Lions have the toughest slate remaining. I like the way the defense is playing though, and while I don't see a 3-0 finish, 2-1 is highly possible, and thus I put the chances of Penn State making it to Indy at 50%.

Ohio State - Currently 2-2 in conference play with both losses to cross divisional foes. The win over UW was huge as is having Penn State trekking to Cbus. Indiana, at Purdue, Penn State and at Michigan remain. There is a better than average chance the trip to Michigan could be huge for the Buckeyes. I see a 3-1 finish but that won't be enough. Chances of making Indy - 25%.

Wisconsin - Currently 2-2 in conference play with the loss to Ohio State being critical. UW still has Penn State left to close the season and the easiest road of the three: Purdue, at Minnesota, at Illinois, Penn State. I see a 4-0 finish but that won't be enough to get the Badgers to Indy. Chances of making it to Lucas Oil Field? 25%

Legends Division:
Nebraska - Currently 3-1 in conference play with a key win over Michigan State. Nebraska has the toughest remaining road in the division with Northwestern, at Penn State, at Michigan and Iowa. The defense has come alive and the offense is tough to defend but I see Nebraska taking it on the chin at Penn State, finishing 3-1 and falling out of the chase for Indy. I put the chances at going to Indy at 40%.

Michigan State - Currently 3-1 in the conference after a brutal month of October. The good news for MSU is that it has the easiest schedule between the division contenders - Minnesota, at Iowa, Indiana and at Northwestern. I see a 4-0 finish and a trip to Indy to help put the unsightly performance in Lincoln to bed. I put MSU's chances of making Indy at 45%

Michigan - Currently 3-1 in the division with a key loss to Michigan State and critical battles remaining. Michigan has to go to Iowa and Illinois and then has Nebraska and Ohio State at home. Iowa is stinging and will be up for this game. Illinois is in a similar boat. Nebraska and nemesis OSU close out the toughest slate of the three contenders. I see a 2-2 finish and with the loss to Michigan State, a less than likely chance to make Indy. Chances? 15%.

Way early bowl projections...
I see Michigan State and Penn State making it to Indy and MSU getting it's first Rose Bowl berth in 24 years.

Penn State will get shut out of the at large pool, as title game runner-ups are apt to be, and Nebraska gets the at-large BCS nod at 10-2.

Wisconsin slides into the Capital One Bowl at 10-2 and with the win over Penn State, while Penn State goes back to the Outback Bowl.

The Insight picks ahead of the Gator this year and goes with a 9-3 Michigan team.

Ohio State, at 8-4 heads to the Gator Bowl.

Illinois goes back to the Meineke Car Care Bowl.

Iowa manages a sixth win and goes to the TicketCity Bowl.

No one else makes a bowl and the Little Caesars falls back to the at-large pool.

Think I'm off base? Tell me what you think? The ESPN bloggers seems to be on the same wavelength.

Get Gamm:
Michigan at Iowa
Minnesota at Michigan State
Indiana at Ohio State
Purdue at Wisconsin
Northwestern at Nebraska

2011-10-28T11:02:00.001-04:00

Encore, encore!
Is it just me or does everything seem a bit anti-climactic now? I mean, don't get me wrong, we have a couple of great races going on in the first year of division play within the Big Ten, but can there be a better all around football game than the one that Michigan State and Wisconsin battled in last week? That one had everything.

The good news is, we have some really good games on tap this weekend and plenty at stake. That alone means we are far from peak season in what is shaping up to be an exciting B1G race.

Northwestern at Indiana, Noon EDT (BTN)
My gut says BTN wishes they had a shot at MSU - Nebraska instead of this one. Indiana and the Chicago area will watch this one at least for a while, but other than alumni, is there any interest in this game? Northwestern is better than they've shown record-wise. Indiana may have found the future at QB in Iowa City. The Wildcats are more talented overall and have a team that can beat anyone on a given Saturday. The same cannot be said for IU. Persa is dinged up but I like the Wildcats to mix he and Colter well and pull away late on Homecoming in Bloomington. Northwestern 34 - Indiana 24.

Mayo says ... I really thought that Northwestern would be much better than they are right now. Dan Persa has had a tough go of it since his injury last year and although his backup Kain Colter seems to be pretty good running the offense, the defense looks like Michigan’s recent defenses (read non-existent). Indiana, whew something stinks in Bloomington. There are signs of a positive future, but it’s not going to be overnight. Northwestern 37 – Indiana 13

Purdue at Michigan, Noon EDT (ESPN2)
This could be an interesting game. Many are watching to see if another great start to the season + loss to Michigan State = Michigan collapse. I think this Michigan team is better than the last few, especially on defense. The Wolverines won't have a total collapse but are playing for bowl position now because the loss to MSU, coupled with games remaining against Iowa, Nebraska and Ohio State more or less renders them an also ran in the Legends race. Purdue is two wins from a bowl game and starting to come together. The ground game and defense are underrated and with a blueprint on stopping DRob available courtesy of MSU, the Boilers will be ready. Still a week off to prepare and heal and a hunger to prove the pundits wrong puts Michigan over the top. Michigan 31 - Purdue 23

Mayo says ... Two up-and-comers with questions just about everywhere on the field, but both positioned for a post-season. A co-worker told me last February that Michigan wins 9 games this year. I scoffed at this thought, but now believe that might be at the high end of the year. Purdue needs to find some unbreakable players that can last a season to get where Hope wants them to be. Michigan 41 – Purdue 35

Michigan State at Nebraksa, Noon EDT (ESPN) - Game of the Week
Just like last week, this pits strength against strength. Nebraska is top ten in all of the key rushing categories. Michigan State is top ten in all of the key defensive categories. The Cornhuskers boast a mobile QB who can beat you with his savvy, including his decisions in the option game. The Spartans boast a front seven that gets after you because the back end is sound. So, what gives? Well, if the Spartans can contain T-Mart and force him to pass, this could go the way of the NU-UW game earlier this month. Nebraska needs to get pressure on Cousins and avoid the big play. The special teams are very evenly matched. Both teams have great tailbacks. But I keep going back to the one dimensional tendencies of Nebraska against a really good run D. The rule of thumb is keep Martinez from a run over 25 yards and you win (they are 9-0 when he has at least one 25-yard plus run a game). MSU is hungry to keep proving that what you see is real and holds on for it's first ever stretch of three straight wins over ranked opponents. Michigan State 27 - Nebraska 21

Mayo says ... Three weeks ago, I would have picked the Huskers hands down. Now, it’s not that easy. These Spartans that Dantonio has built are by far the most impressive team in the conference right now. Nebraska was greeted at Wisconsin very rudely and I expect Michigan State will not let up on the pedal this weekend in what will most likely be one of the best matches of the weekend. As a college football fan, I’d rather watch this than even LSU-Alabama. Michigan State 34 – Nebraska 30

Iowa at Minnesota, 3:30 EDT (BTN)
They are playing for the pig in Minnehaha. Iowa lost it last year and wants it back. They will probably get it back without much of a fight. I like that the Gophers made a statement and signed Coach Kill to a long term deal but that doesn't help in the now. He is a few good, solid recruiting classes away from having the horses to sniff six or seven wins. Makes me wonder why they ever fired Glen Mason, who if nothing else, got the maroon and gold bowling most years. Iowa is starting to find its stride and this is a good tune up going into a month that has them taking on MSU, Michigan and Nebraska. Iowa rolls. Iowa 45 - Minnesota 17

Mayo says ... Iowa takes a 3 hour bus ride, sits in a beautiful new stadium and runs a few sprints up and down the field, takes a shower and a bus ride home. Minnesota wakes up, wonders why nobody likes them, lays down like a beaten dog and accepts that maybe next year they can play with the rest of their friends. Iowa 56 – Minnesota 10

Illinois at Penn State, 3:30 EDT (ABC)
This is where the Penn State schedule gets interesting. Games remain with Wisconsin, Ohio State and Nebraska after this one so a win is imperative in the race for the top of the Leaders division. Illinois is also at a crossroads. The offense is stagnant and the Illini are playing tight. The magic of the 6-0 start has been flushed and now the men in orange are tasked with a tough trip to State College to face a stout defense. While I am still not sold on the Penn State's offense to consistently stretch the field, Silas Redd is a stud and can be a one man wrecking crew. Illinois will come out inspired and ready, but Penn State staves off an Illinois rally and stays atop the Leaders. Penn State 23 - Illinois 20

Mayo says ... Oh how the Illini have fallen. Starting 6-0 I thought this was going to be the year they surprise some heavyweights. Well, not so much now. Penn State has been playing stellar defense and their only loss is a national champion caliber squad. Paterno can still coach at 134 years of age and brings his team another victory. Penn State 44 – Illinois 14

Wisconsin at Ohio State, 8pm EDT (ESPN)
This is a very intriguing game. Ohio State is coming off a bye week and a solid road win at Illinois. Wisconsin hits the road again as the opponent's biggest home tilt of the season. The million dollar question is - will the Badgers be caught licking their wounds from the devastating loss at Michigan State, mired in a shell-shocked hangover, or will they come out hungry to avenge the loss and regain a bead on the leaders in the Leaders? Ohio State is going to have to pass the ball more than four times to keep the Badgers honest. Wisconsin can keep a good Buckeyes defense off balance with the Wilson, Ball, Toon, Pedersen combo. After seeing Wilson first hand, I can attest, this guy is poised and mature beyond a typical senior QB. The crowd will be rabid and a win keeps the Buckeyes in this race. However, when push comes to shove, you have to pick the better team to win, even on the road. Wisconsin 24 - Ohio State 23.

Mayo says ... I remember back when this was a game I looked forward to watching every year. Maybe because it was the personification of the Big Ten style of football. Right now, Wisconsin might have to take a quarter to get back on track and Ohio State just wants a win to stop the bleeding. Unfortunately for Luke Fickell, his head coaching tenure appears to be completed at Ohio State by seasons end, this is one more step back. Ohio State 14 – Wisconsin 38

2011-10-25T23:40:00.000-04:00

Hail yes!
Sorry for the delay this week... recovering from an amazing college football game in East Lansing last Saturday, and traveling for work. But before I hit the road for home Wednesday am, I thought I'd better check in. After all, what a weekend it was.

The Hail Mary will be what is most remembered, but let me tell you, the MSU - Wisconsin game was a classic college football game. Big plays. Comebacks. Momentum shifts galore. Two heavy weights going toe to toe to the finish. Maybe we'll get lucky and get a reprieve in Indy that first weekend in December. Then again, the encores are rarely ever as good...

The good...
The instant classic in E.L. I want to watch it over and over. It was - and I've seen some classics in Spartan Stadium - the best to date and will be hard to surpass. Michigan State. The defense forced rare UW turnovers. The offense was efficient. Special teams turned the tide. Total team effort. Wisconsin. I can't put them in the other categories. They were as advertised and still have to be the favorite in the Leaders Division. Penn State. Smoke and mirrors or not, the Nits keep getting it done. Now that maybe they've settled on a QB, they can survive the upcoming schedule and sneak into the title game. Purdue. Finally, the Boilers are rewarded for playing a good game. PU may never be a steady threat to win the title, but despite a spate of injuries, Danny Hope has this team poised to make a bowl. Iowa and Nebraska get to be here too but they virtually had BYE weeks so no comment.

The bad...
Northwestern. The Wildcats should not be 2-5. The season is slipping away and the chances are very good that NU stays home for the holidays.

The ugly...
Illinois. Hmmm, funny how not playing anyone early can bite you late. Illinois is stagnant and predictable on offense and the defense isn't bailing out the O at the same rate. So much for that amazing start. Indiana and Minnesota. I can't pick on them any more than placing them here. It's bad. Real bad.

Get Gamm...
We had two go 4-1 but since Mayo picked the MSU win, he gets the nod over Dan. Dan gets to move to the top of the standings now that he's picked enough games for the stats to even out.

This week...
Michigan State at Nebraska (Game of the Week)
Northwestern at Indiana
Purdue at Michigan
Illinois at Penn State
Iowa at Minnesota
Wisconsin at Ohio State

2011-10-20T12:27:00.000-04:00

Big Ten in the national spotlight
It's a big week for the Big Ten. The SEC almost always dominates the airwaves and the headlines, but this weekend, ESPN's Game Day descends upon East Lansing for the best game in college football this week - Wisconsin v. Michigan State.

The rest of the slate is rather yawn-inducing, though the cat fight in Evanston could be fun to watch. Only two games are division tilts but at this point, everyone needs Ws.

Illinois at Purdue, Noon EDT (ESPN2)
I think Illinois was exposed a bit last week by an Ohio State team that had been all together underwhelming on the season. The Illini can play defense and have some offensive weaponry but prior to the loss had been squeaking by. Purdue was some bad kicking from a very nice win in State College and has improved little by little, week by week. Illinois is dead last in most statistical categories when it comes to special teams, which will bite them eventually. In the end, Illinois has more talent and the better defense and when push comes to shove, defense wins games. Illinois 23 - Purdue 20

Indiana at Iowa, Noon EDT (BTN)
I know that Indiana has threatened Iowa with upsets each of the last few years, but this might be the worst team the Big Ten has seen in a really long time. Add to it the fact that IU is missing a few key players and the picture is not pretty. Iowa re-found the offense last weekend and should have no problem dominating in all facets this week as well. On a side note, I'd hate the 11am local time start as a fan or a player! Iowa 41 - Indiana 14

Nebraska at Minnesota, 3:30 EDT (ABC)
Raise your hand if you would rather see Nebraska and Iowa go toe to toe twice this season instead of seeing these teams play Indiana and Minnesota this week? I said above that Indiana might be the worst team the Big Ten has produced in a long time? Well, Minnesota is right there too. The ONLY saving grace is that the Gophers played USC tough on the road in the opener and has a win over a D1 foe. Then again, while IU has its only win against an FCS school, at least the Hoosiers beat an FCS school. But I digress. Nebraska comes off a bye hungry to get firing on all cylinders before a big battle with Michigan State next weekend. Minnesota is battling injuries, guys skipping class, an unhealthy coach... Taylor and Rex win this one on their own. Nebraska 49 - Minnesota 0

Penn State at Northwestern, 7pm EDT (BTN)
Something's got to give in this cat fight. Penn State has been stout on D (3rd in scoring defense, 2nd in total defense, 3rd in rushing defense and 3rd in passing defense) and Northwestern has been able to move the ball with some measure of consistency (5th in total offense, 6th in rushing offense, 4th in passing offense). With every game, Dan Persa is closer to his pre-Achilles self. Penn State refuses to select a QB and is down its top receiver. Silas Redd has been a stud and will need a strong performance in order for the Nits to stay unbeaten in the Leaders Division. NU is 0-fer night games so far, but finds a way in this one, almost a must-win for the Wildcats. Northwestern 24 - Penn State 20

Wisconsin at Michigan State, 8pm EDT (ESPN) - Game of the Week
The Badgers' first true test of the season and first real road game. Michigan State's third tough league test in the past three games. Wisconsin brings a bona fide Heisman candidate to the table in Russell Wilson. Michigan State brings a dominant defense - the physical, gritty, tough variety common place in the days of George Perles regime. Something has got to give. While everyone and their brother wants to make this a UW O v. MSU D discussion, I want to look at the opposite.

Wisconsin has the league's best scoring defense, third rated total defense, fifth ranked run defense and No. 2 pass defense. UW also is near the top in other key defensive categories. However, aside from Nebraska, who has Wisconsin played? That will be a key in this game, whether the so-called experts want to say so or not. Michigan State has the 8th ranked scoring offense, 7th rated total offense, 10th ranked rushing offense and 3rd ranked passing offense. MSU allows the fewest sacks and leads the league in time of possession.

Seems like a slam dunk, eh? Just like Vegas thinks (UW is giving 8 at this time). Maybe, or maybe not. Wiscy's true weak link is special teams. While MSU hasn't been as buttoned up as the past, the Spartans changed last year's game with a punt return TD and are long overdue for a kickoff return for a TD.

The night atmosphere, MSU's defense and the fact that the offense is just starting to fire on all cylinders has me leaning against the popular pick. If MSU is going to win just one of the next two, next week is the one to win, but why not win them both? Gholston or no Gholston. Michigan State 23 - Wisconsin 21.

2011-10-17T12:44:00.000-04:00

And then there were three...
We went into an important week of conference play with five unbeatens. We came out with three. Wisconsin and Penn State rule the roost in the Leaders, Michigan State in the Legends. The race is still on in both, as Illinois has yet to play either Penn State or Wisconsin and will try and have a final say in the deal. Ohio State can still play the spoiler too. The Spartans, meanwhile, still have to go to Iowa and Nebraska - one loss teams hungry to stay in the mix. And frankly, Michigan might have one of the easier roads with home games remaining against its toughest competitors.

It was a great weekend for football around the Big Ten. The only game never in doubt was Wisconsin v. Indiana. The rest gave us plenty of entertainment and water cooler fodder.

The good... Wisconsin. Although I am disappointed that the Badgers scored 24 less this year than last. What's up with that?! Michigan State. Another year of containing D-Rob. Conditions were nasty, so MSU got back to Pound, Green, Pound and looked great doing so. Sets up a great game this week with UW. Ohio State. The Buckeyes ratcheted up the D some more and made Illinois look silly at times. Iowa. That's the offense that was sorely lacking at Penn State. Then again, maybe it only appears against sub-par defenses? Penn State. Solid, if not at all pretty.

The bad... Purdue. But not really. The Boilers played Penn State tough. They just get this rap after a loss. Them's the breaks! Michigan. Two-fold. The vaunted offense again looked below average against MSU's defense. And those uniforms? H-I-D-E-O-U-S. Burn them. Or donate to kids looking to dress as bumble bees for Halloween. Illinois. Phew, what's that smell? The Illini offense. Northwestern. Great offense. Zero defense. Hard to win in this conference without a good D.

The ugly... Indiana. Sorry but wow, are they bad or what? Penn State's offense. It is hard to watch. Ohio State's offense. Not all of it though. The Bucks can run, especially with Boom back. But one completion on four attempts? Holy old school Batman! The dirty talk regarding MSU - UM. Especially that from Chris Spielman on the broadcast. Please. MSU was penalized as the officials saw fit. And don't go thinking that M was squeaky clean. Right before the "punch", Will Gholston's facemask was in hand with his helmet being pushed to the ground. Kudos to Michigan coaches and players for calling it what it was - physical domination and not dirty play. Media and fans? Bag it. This is football not patty cakes!

Got Gamm? No one bested my 4-1 and that catapults me back to the top overall, in a tie with Phats.

This week...
Illinois at Purdue
Indiana at Iowa
Nebraska at Minnesota
Penn State at Northwestern
Wisconsin at Michigan State (Game of the Week)

2011-10-12T16:06:00.000-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Eight

For most, this is just another interesting week of conference play. A couple of good games and some other tune-ups for next week and beyond. For me? This is THE week. Michigan State and Michigan go toe to toe and there is plenty at stake. There is also plenty of talk, though mostly from former players.

Before I get picking though, I have to weigh in on the college football landscape.

Memo to Mizzou - stay where you are. The SEC will eat you alive and use you for the fact that you are about more than just sports (See Vandy). A&M was wisely replaced with TCU and if the Big 12 has its wits, Houston and SMU will follow to make it a happy family of 12 once again. Or, hey, do nothing and stay at ten. Forget BYU or Boise. My goodness can we get some regional reality in these conferences?

Speaking of which... the Big East is desperate. It is said to be courting schools as far south as Orlando and as far west as Boise. Please. May as well change the name to Big Spread All Over. Boise does not belong in the Big East. Nor does Air Force or even eastern based academies like Army and Navy. In fact, I think Army, Navy, Air Force, VMI and The Citadel should create their own militant conference... but that's just me.

Kudos to the Big Ten for staying put. The only logical move is when or if Notre Dame is ever truly fair game. Then you add them and only someone else if they make sense...

Now, onto the week at hand:

Indiana at Wisconsin, Noon EDT (ESPN2)
Yawn. Indiana is on the cusp of ESPN.com's Bottom 10. Wisconsin is coming off of a bye, ready and refreshed. It is Homecoming, which may be the only thing that keeps the crowd engaged. Kevin Wilson will eventually get the Hoosiers competing, but Russell Wilson pads the stats in a warm up for the big game in East Lansing (the last time the Badgers lost in conference was at MSU last year). Wisconsin 45 - IU 10

Purdue at Penn State, Noon EDT (BTN)
Purdue might wind up one of the those teams that somehow manages to make a bowl game this season. The Boilers aren't very good but have a chance in this one because Penn State's offense has been abysmal. I'll venture to guess that the Nittany Lions will be sluggish to start after a hard fought win over Iowa and that this will be a better game than expected. But PSU is flat out better and just keeps finding ways to win. Penn State 23 - Purdue 13.

Michigan at Michigan State, Noon EDT (ESPN) (Game of the Week)
Really? A noon game between two ranked teams? I guess OK and TX did it last week but come on. This is far better than OSU and Illinois. Ok, enough venting. The noon tilt back in 2009 was a memorable one - an OT win for the green and white. If you look at it carefully, Michigan State has had some of the best success in slowing D-Rob over his career. The Spartans bring a great defense if a sluggish offense to the table. Michigan has been far more opportunistic with the turnovers on D and is bending but not breaking. Typically this one goes to the team who rushes for more yards. M has the upper hand on offense, but State on defense and special teams. Spartans break it open late. Michigan State 31 - Michigan 17.

Ohio State at Illinois, 3:30pm EDT (ABC)
Well, we know OSU isn't totally dead yet - at least not if Braxton Miller is healthy. For as awful as he was made to look against MSU, Miller was a stud against Nebraska. Problem is, the Buckeyes fizzled and blew a 21-point lead. Illinois wasn't great last week at Indiana but that was to be expected after three close wins in a row. The Illini are good and should win this game, but I cannot believe that Ohio State will lose a third straight Big Ten game. OSU pulls off a mild upset. Ohio State 23 - Illinois 20

Northwestern at Iowa, 7pm EDT (BTN)
A battle of the bruised and battered. Iowa looked the part of a wrestling school at Penn State last week. Northwestern once again failed to sustain a lead against a good team. The Wildcats have given the Hawkeyes fits of late and the black and gold O took a giant leap back last week. I'm not sure who truly needs this one more, but for some reason I like the 'Cats to pull off the weekend's second road upset. Northwestern 26 - Iowa 24.

2011-10-10T11:43:00.001-04:00

Gaining clarity, one game at a time...
We're still very early in conference play, but there seems to be some clear separation between the top, the contenders, the pretenders and the nobodies. The weekend saw some great comebacks - Nebraska and Michigan - the backing up of a bold statement (Penn State) and more clarity on who's who this season.

The best part? It gets even better this coming weekend with a slate of meaningful games on tap.

The good...
Michigan. Nebraska. Penn State. Illinois. Purdue. Nice wins by all five. Two solid comebacks. One statement backer. Two more good wins even in games that were near givens. Nebraska was most impressive to me because the fans had turned on them, OSU was in control and things were spiraling fast. Patience, a defensive surge and the Martinez-Burkhead combo were the nails in the Buckeye coffin. Michigan overcame an ugly first half to dominate a NU team that looked inexplicably lost for two quarters. Penn State had to back up the "Iowa is a wrestling school" call out by a player and did so with a dominating if not awe-inspiring performance. Illinois and Purdue rolled - and should have.

The bad...
Ohio State and Northwestern. The Buckeyes finally woke up their dormant offense and looked to be on the road to a romp in Lincoln. Then Miller got hurt and that was all she wrote. Bauserman looked - as my 12 year old said - fat, old, slow and with an arm of a middle schooler. What a shame that the six-time defending champ has fallen so hard so fast. Northwestern looked the part of contender until halftime. Then it all unraveled. The 'cats forgot the great spy defense that kept DRob in check early and let him right back in the Heisman race...

The ugly...
Iowa. Indiana. Minnesota. The latter are not a shock and require no further comment (or beat down). But Iowa? Really? That offensive display was, well, offensive. Highly. What happened to the offense that worked so well in a comeback win over Pitt? And people, Pitt bull-whipped a good USF team so we know that was a nice win for Iowa. There was no fight from the wrestling school that had owned PSU in the 2000s.

No winna...no dinna
For the first time this year, I beat all comers by taking the tiebreaker from Phats - who rebounded nicely after a bad week five.
This week...
Indiana at Wisconsin
Purdue at Penn State
Michigan at Michigan State (Game of the Week)
Ohio State at Illinois
Northwestern at Iowa

2011-10-07T16:09:00.001-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Six
No sense beating around the bush. The thermometer may say 80 and sun here in West Michigan, but we're halfway through the college football regular season. Mayo is picking with me this week. Can you beat either of us?

Minnesota at Purdue, Noon ET (ESPN)Not the Basement Bowl in total... that would only be if this were Minny and Indy. Purdue stunk it up big time last week and is going a la Penn State with a two-headed QB system. Sorry, not a big fan of that. Minnesota has to be play better than last week, right? Purdue does too. The Boilers aren't all together good but are light years ahead of the Gophers. Purdue 31 - Minnesota 13.

mayo says... In what could be the Bottom Of The B1G Barrel Bowl, this could be an ugly game. And I don’t mean one team taking the other to the woodshed ugly. I mean ‘can anyone score some points’ ugly. Combined scores against these two last weekend: 96-10. In a pick that even Phats will love, Purdue 13 – Minnesota 6.

Illinois at Indiana, 2:30 ET (BTN)
I had to do a triple check on the game time. This is old school, sorry but your not on TV this week type of timing. Of course we know EVERY game is on some sort of TV anymore but still, the time seems odd to me. Illinois escaped last week with a comeback, throw away, comeback win over rival Northwestern. Boy was that a kick in the nuts... pun intended - well, at least for the 'cats. This is simple: Illinois is good. Indiana? Uh, see Minnesota. ILL-INI roll. Illinois 42 - Indiana 10

mayo says... Zook takes his impressive Illini squad next door to Bloomington for what should be a glorified scrimmage, although one player will not be on the field. Why on Earth would you knee a guy in the groin when you know there are cameras on you and there are two refs within 10 feet? Unbelievable. Regardless, Indiana is showing some signs that they could be on the way up, but it’s not going to be a quick fix. Illinois 34 – Indiana 14.

Iowa at Penn State, 3:30 ET (ABC)
If IU v. U of I is old school with its kick time, this is old school based on the style of play. Iowa has gone to this magical hurry up since the Pitt game and is clicking but both teams get it done with defense first. This is one of those cross division games that change rooting interests for fans. And this is a toss up. Coach Ferentz has had great success against the Nits. PSU is struggling through two quarterbacks and a paltry kicking game but is at home. Both teams are quietly sitting on just one loss but have been unimpressive at times. Heads PSU. Tails Iowa. Flip, roll, bounce... Penn State 16 - Iowa 14.

mayo says... Oh how Penn State needs this win. Iowa can get things going in the conference with a nice win (again) over Paterno and his indecisive QB group. Iowa has had an extra week to prepare for a very mediocre Penn State group. Iowa 27 – Penn State 20.

Michigan at Northwestern, 7pm (BTN)
My Game of the Week. Two teams with the potential to score in droves and one with a defense that appears improved, but I'm witholding judgment until the Wolverines play stiffer competition. You know the fans clad in Purple will be hyped for this game and NU often fares well in these night games. The key is Persa. If he stays healthy, we've seen what he means. If the cats can contain Denard and get off to a good start, they will emerge. Michigan could get caught peeking ahead, but I doubt it. Michigan 34 - Northwestern 27.

mayo says... Two of the most enjoyable quarterbacks to watch in the sport on the same field. I really like Persa because he has the better arm of the two, but the weapons that Michigan has at WR are the difference. Defenses may end up null and void here, and I don’t buy that Michigan’s defense is quite back yet. But they appear to be the better group in this matchup. Michigan 37 – Northwestern 29.

Ohio State at Nebraska, 8pm ET (ESPN)
Something has got to give in this one. Either the OSU offense will awaken and lay the hammer to what has so far been a vastly overrated defense or said defense will add to the woes of the scarlet and gray. Those star players that were due back? Uh, not so much. You know the Cornhuskers are hungry to put last week behind them. Nebraska 24 - Ohio State 20.

mayo says... Both of these teams got socked in the mouth last weekend. Ohio State learned that eventually Mark Dantonio was going to beat them with a good, old-fashioned defense and Nebraska was given a rude awakening that they weren’t going to walk through the B1G by Wisconsin. In what should be a spectacular rivalry for decades to come, Nebraska shows up and is able to muster a win over a still incomplete roster out of Columbus. OSU 16 – Nebraska 22.

2011-10-04T15:05:00.000-04:00

Week six, already?
Seriously, we're at the kinda, sorta halfway mark of the season already? Where has the time gone? It hasn't been without some brow raisers and head shakers along the way, last weekend included.

Dan did a nice report card in a comment to last week's pick 'em blog, so I won't repeat what he did. Instead, I'll stick with my usually good, bad and ugly analysis.

The good...
Wisconsin. Uh, make that a damn good. Wow. So much for not having played anyone. Color me highly impressed and a trite bit more nervous about the night time show down in EL in a few weeks. Michigan State. Best defense I've seen from the Spartans since Perles' late 80s squads wrecked havoc on the league. The offense needs to get scoring, but that is a Legends Division winning D. Michigan. Then again, they played a team I'm pretty sure my local high school team would challenge. Still, 58-0? Nicely done. Illinois. Sweet comeback, choke, comeback. But how close was NU to pulling off a mirror of the Music City Miracle at the end? This close! Northwestern. I can't rate them bad or ugly after that one. It was disappointing but oh what a game changer Mr. Persa is.

The bad...
Penn State. Really? Trouble scoring on Indiana? Ugly. Pick a QB will ya? Illinois II. Umm, it is never okay for one dude to knee another dude in the jewels - especially when he isn't looking. Come on. That was bad. And classless. Nebraska. Black shirt huh? And let me get this straight, you have an option QB throw on five straight plays? What? Indiana. The Hoosiers were in it until the end, in a game they shouldn't have been. But dude, get the Hail Mary to the end zone will you?

The ugly...
Minnesota. See above. No wonder Coach Kill is having health problems. Purdue. Off a bye week, the Boilers lay a total egg at home against a rival At least it didn't come down to a field goal - either way - this time.

Gettin' Gamm...
Nice week for all but our leader. Phats took some shots and went 3-3. The rest of us went 6-0, with Mayo clinching the tiebreaker on a closer to the huge margin in the UW - NU game. Mayo, you know the drill:

Minnesota at Purdue
Illinois at Indiana
Iowa at Penn State
Michigan at Northwestern (Game of the Week)
Ohio State at Nebraska

2011-09-28T12:27:00.000-04:00

Let the games begin!
Enough of this Big Ten versus no one stuff. Time to roll up the sleeves, tighten the chin straps and get ready to enter a new era of B1G football! No sense beating around the bush. Phats is picking again - the Boiler is on a roll - and this is when and where it all starts to get interesting...

Minnesota at Michigan; Noon EDT (BTN)
The Battle for the Little Brown Jug. A trophy the Gophers have had all of once since 1987. Good chance it isn't leaving Ann Arbor for the Twin Cities this week either. Minnesota lost to an FCS foe, is 1-3, and their coach is having notable health concerns. Michigan is off to another 4-0 start with a defense that has improved but a passing offense that has taken a step back. The Wolverines still lack a good power running back and that will haunt them at some point but not now. Minnesota is depleted, down and staring at 1-11. It'll be close early with the rivalry factor, but Robinson outshines Gray. Michigan 34 - Minnesota 13

Phats - Michigan 31 Minnesota 10- I feel bad for Minnesota with the health of their coach, but that was just an ugly loss to North Dakota State.

Northwestern at Illinois; Noon EDT (ESPN2)
I'm not totally sure what to make of this game. Illinois is an impressive 4-0, but struggled mightily with a good but still MAC foe Western Michigan and has one overall great performance (ASU win) to hang its hat on. Conversely, Northwestern won what then looked like a good one at BC (the Eagles, it turns out, are not good at all) and then lost at West Point. Granted, Dangerous Dan Persa has yet to take a snap this year and is set to return this week, but what about the rust? Illinois has a stout defense (tops in run defense) but can be had at times through the air. Northwestern is last in total defense and that means Illinois will pound the rock. Maybe if Persa had a game under his belt, I'd change my mind. But another rivalry tilt goes to the home team. Illinois 27 - Northwestern 17

Phats - Northwestern 24 Illinois 17- Going with the upset here and I have no idea why.

Penn State at Indiana; Noon EDT (ESPNU)
Do I have to write this one up? Penn State is as boring as those uniforms. Indiana is perhaps incapable of even being Top 25 among FCS foes. Loss to Ball State? Loss to North Texas? Come on! Penn State does have a fundamentally sound team - at least defensively. The kicking game is going to bite the Nits at some point though, and I'm still not sold on McGloin. Indiana is desperate and might be up early, but despite losing a key defender in Mauti, Penn State will impose its will on the Hoosiers and walk in Bloomington. Penn State 24 - Indiana 7.

Phats - Penn State 42 indiana 10- Surprised IU didn't try to sell this game to some east coast city like they did last year, doesn't really matter where it's played PSU will roll.

Michigan State at Ohio State; 3:30 EDT (ABC)
This mirrors the Capital One Bowl Mascot Challenge game of the week between Sparty and Brutus. MSU has not won in C-bus since the 1998 stunner. OSU is the only Big Ten team that Coach Dantonio has failed to defeat. The Spartans boast 24 players from Ohio - many of who were shunned by OSU in the recruiting process. This game puts the leagues' best defense (MSU) against the leagues' worst offense (OSU). Stats aside, we know both have beaten on inferior opponents and laid eggs on the road. OSU is still undermanned and has completed 11 passes in the past two games. I read it somewhere and agree - first one to 20 wins. MSU pulls off a mild upset in a game that starts a make or break month for Big Ten title hopes. Michigan State 23 - Ohio State 17

Phats - Ohio State 17 Michigan State 14- Should be a solid game, and could easily go either, so went with the home team.

Nebraska at Wisconsin; 8pm EDT (ABC) - TFS Game of the Week
Welcome to the Big Ten Big Red! You get to play the best team in the Leaders Division and one of the more complete teams in the country. My one caution for Badgers out there though is this - who have you played? At least Nebraska faced a good Fresno State team, a solid PAC 12 foe in Washington (Oregon State might be banned after the start they are off to) and went on the road for a game with a middling opponent in Wyoming. UW has played three of four at home, and against teams that might actually make Indiana look good! Back to the game. Russel Wilson vs. Taylor Martinez. Black Shirts against UW tailbacks. Both teams are high powered and have sound special teams play. The advantage only comes in the raucous crowd. In a thriller that lives up to the Game Day hype - Wisconsin 27 - Nebraska 24.

Phats - Wisconsin 35 Nebraska 21 Wow, welcome to the Big Ten Nebraska your first game to play at one of the toughest stadiums in the conference. I am not sure Nebraska's defense will be able to slow the Badgers offense enough to get them a shot Badgers take it.

Notre Dame at Purdue; 8pm EDT (ESPN)
Another good game in a weekend full of them on the national landscape. Purdue is well-rested and gets to welcome a rival to Ross-Ade. ND struggled on the road after finally getting on the board with a nice win over Michigan State. NotreND's propensity to cough the ball up like a cat does a hairball, it will be a good game. Notre Dame - 30 - Purdue 20.

Phats - Purdue 24 Notre Dame 21- A little night time Ross Ade magic as Carson Wiggs will kick a 70 yard field goal as time expires and Ross Ade will be a crazy scene. Alright so I am a sucker I admit that this probably won't happen but Purdue is my school I can't pick against them even when my head is screaming NO, my heart still says yes so I have to go with my Boilers. Boiler Up!

2011-09-26T13:54:00.000-04:00

Looking back ... and ahead
As expected, it was pretty much a ho-hum weekend for the Big Ten. Illinois struggled as I predicted, but aside from the rotten eggs laid by Minnesota and Indiana, everything else was according to plan. Which begs the question... I know the league will go to nine conference games in the fairly near future (THANK GOODNESS) but can we all agree - no more FCS games and let's sprinkle in a conference game early so we get some games that matter sooner rather than later?

The good...
Penn State may have found a QB. Illinois, despite a struggle, is 4-0 for the first time since 1951. Michigan State leads the nation in total yards per game allowed. Yep, trust me, they do. Michigan is 4-0 again. Ohio State found some offense, sort of. Iowa and Wisconsin routed lesser opponents. Nebraska looked good at what might be one of the most gorgeous stadiums I had previously never seen.

The bad...
Sorry but Minnesota and Indiana flat suck. I feel for Coach Kill, who is going back to get these seizures in order but really? Losing at home to - albeit a good - North Dakota State? And Indiana goes to North Texas and falls short in a rally against maybe the worst team in FBS? Talk about dragging down a conference!

This week...
Big Ten play finally kicks off and there are some dandies. Phats was gutsy enough to let his gold and black homerism shine through in the IU upset loss pick and with his 9-1 record gets to pick again on the home page. Thank goodness for league play. Let the fun begin!

Penn State at Indiana
Minnesota at Michigan
Northwestern at Illinois
Michigan State at Ohio State
Nebraska at Wisconsin (Game of the Week)
Notre Dame at Purdue

2011-09-20T14:01:00.000-04:00

Week Four...
San Diego State at Michigan (Game of the Week)
Gamm - On one hand, SDSU has to travel across the country for a noon game. On the other, don't you think the players might have the least bit of desire to beat former coach Hoke, even if he left on good terms? If this game is in Cali, I go with the Aztecs. It will be close but M will pull it out. Michigan 31 - SDSU 30

Mayo - I was stunned to see this as the Game Of The Week, but after looking over the rest of the slate, it belongs here. Hoke prepares his team to take on his former team. Michigan will have to shore up the pass defense to pull away in this one and I think they’ll do just enough to get past this before the B1G season starts. Michigan 38 – SDSU 34

Central Michigan at Michigan State
Gamm - MSU has two sets of revenge on tap here. One for the 2009 upset on the second shot at a field goal after a freshman named Jerel Worthy jumped offsides on the first attempt (a miss). Two for the way the Spartans played last week. News came down today that in addition to the loss of starting right tackle Skylar Burkland, MSU is without center Blake Treadwell and backup tackle Jared McGaha. Still, MSU pounds the rock, Rock gets 200 yards rushing and MSU rolls. MSU 48 - CMU 13.

Mayo - Wrong week to be a Chippewa. Dan Enos will take his squad into East Lansing having endured a whipping at the hands of archrival Western last week. Dantonio will likely be able to get some backups in for valuable time and not run up the score too bad in this one. Michigan State 47 – Central Michigan 10

Eastern Michigan at Penn State
Gamm - Eastern was all up in Michigan's face early but never got the scores to scare the maize and blue. Penn State's offense is almost as bad as Ohio State's - and that is bad. Until PSU settles on a QB, I don't think they'll do a thing to impress. And even then, it might be tough. Penn State 20 - Eastern 7.

Mayo - Easy pick of the week. Paterno lets the kids get some quality play time in the Romper Room. Penn State 51 – Eastern Michigan 13

Louisiana-Monroe at Iowa
Gamm - ULM had TCU in a dog fight for a couple of quarters last week and isn't afraid to tussle. Iowa is confident after that stirring comeback. Will they look past ULM (am I the only one who thinks the movie Waterboy when we talk ULM?) or take care of business? I see a sluggish start but a solid win. Iowa 33 - ULM 10.

Mayo - Iowa will be able to shore up some of the issues they’ve had recently by putting the smackdown on whatever the mascot is for Louisiana – Monroe. I’ll admit that I know nothing about this program, but I do know that if “State” doesn’t follow Louisiana, they aren’t any good. Iowa 38 – Louisiana-Monroe 6

Colorado at Ohio State
Gamm - remember when Colorado was good? Wow that seems like so long ago. It even feels like an eternity since OSU was good and that was just last season! The Bucks are a mess on offense and still down several key players. The Buffs knocked off rival Colorado State but don't have the horses to get it done here. OSU will be lackluster but still get a W. Ohio State 24 - Colorado 14.

Mayo - Possibly just what the doctor ordered for OSU? Pac-12 vs. B1G in a matchup of Great Whites vs. Seals. OSU takes out two weekends of frustration on CU. Ohio State 44 – Colorado 24

Western Michigan at Illinois
Gamm - My upset game of the week. Illinois is riding high after a nice win, but the QB is dinged and he's the key to the Illini's success. Western was a 14 point swing on a pick 6 from making Michigan really sweat in the opener and is equipped to win. Granted, Michigan did not have an ounce of the defense that Illinois does but a bit of big win hangover mixed with taking the wrong opponent lightly means the MAC scores win two of the season over the Big Ten. WMU 27 - Illinois 23.

Mayo - This could be an intriguing matchup if Western can get things going. Illinois looks to be in the upper-middle class of the B1G this year and should be able to put this one away by the middle of the third quarter. Illinois 31 – Western Michigan 13

South Dakota at Wisconsin
Gamm - Can we stop annointing Wisconsin as the Big One and the rest the little eleven? I'll give you that UW has looked strong. But um, who have they played? No one and this week they play the fifth cousin of no one - FCS foe South Dakota. We won't know what the Badgers have until NU comes calling next week. Meantime, ho hum another blowout win! UW 56 - SD 6

Mayo - Where are all these South Dakota schools coming from? This “game” doesn’t warrant much of a preview. Wiconsin 61 – South Dakota 6

North Dakota State at Minnesota
Gamm - Minnesota can take nothing for granted. The Bison have given the Gophers fits more than once. Minnesota is getting better but will still struggle. Gophers 30 - NDSU 23

Mayo - If I remember correctly, Tim Brewster’s Minnesota squad fell apart and let this North Dakota State team into TCF Stadium and ruin an otherwise beautiful day for the Gophers. Jerry Kill will have a different result. Minnesota 28 – North Dakota State 16

Indiana at North Texas
Gamm - Not even IU can screw this up. Even with 30 penalties! IU 31 - NT 10

Mayo - Well, I had to look up North Texas to see what they are all about. Apparently U-G-L-Y is the definition of this program right now. Indiana 34 – North Texas 13

Nebraska at Wyoming
Gamm - a good battle between cowboys and farmers. Wyoming is unbeaten but not for long. NU preps for next week's trip to Madison with a beat down and a tighter D. Nebraska 44 - Wyoming 14

Mayo - Nebraska continues its three week “W” tour (Washington, Wyoming, Wisconsin) with a fourth “W”. Taylor Martinez has another ho-hum huge day for the Big Red. Nebraska 56 – Wyoming 17

2011-09-19T11:15:00.000-04:00

A look back at week three...Ah the good, the so-so, the ugly. There was plenty of it last weekend in the Big Ten. That said, I'm not sure we will truly know who's who until we get into league play. But isn't that all that really matters anyway?

The good...Illinois and Iowa. Both beat very good teams even if in very different ways. Illinois really owned ranked ASU in Champaign and despite being down early in the 4th, was largely in control from the onset. Iowa was down big time. Things were looking bleak. Then the Hawkeyes awoke and stormed from behind for a potential season-making win.

The so-so...Michigan. Wisconsin. Nebraska. Purdue. Indiana. Minnesota. Penn State. Some lopsided wins here with a few nail bitters as well. Why so-so for blowouts? Michigan hasn't proven they are anything different than the past few seasons. Wisconsin hasn't played anyone. Nebraska simply won a game it should have but still lacks the defense we thought they'd boast. IU and PU played nobody's. Minnesota beat a decent MAC team but not emphatically. Penn State is as stagnant as ever on offense.

The ugly...Michigan State. Ohio State. Northwestern. The Spartans shot themselves in the foot with untimely penalties, two failed scoring attempts inside the five and the first kickoff for a TD surrendered in 9 seasons. Ohio State has zero chance with this offense. Whew, that stunk! And Northwestern goes to West Point and gets rolled on the ground. Three winnable games where our Big Ten brethren seemed to forget to show up.

This week...Nothing great on the slate for this weekend. Big Ten v. MAC heats up with three more such battles but no marquee matchups at all. NU and PU get the weekend off. MSU and OSU will look to rebound.

San Diego State at Michigan (Game of the Week)
Central Michigan at Michigan State
Eastern Michigan at Penn State
Louisiana-Monroe at Iowa
Colorado at Ohio State
Western Michigan at Illinois
South Dakota at Wisconsin
North Dakota State at Minnesota
Indiana at North Texas
Nebraska at Wyoming

2011-09-16T09:11:00.000-04:00

Week Three...
Eastern Michigan at Michigan - Mike Hart comes back to M... as an EMU coach. The Eagles, nee Hurons, are 2-0 but against FCS programs. EMU may stay close early on M's ND hangover, but this won't be close long. Michigan 41 - Eastern 10

Phats: Michigan 41 eastern michigan 17- What a game last week for Michigan an exciting last second TD. This one might start slow still recovering from that excitement, but won't take long for the Wolverines to roll

Penn State at Temple - I'm not sold that the Nits will go to Philly and win this one. Al Golden is gone but he left the cupboard nicely stocked. I'm going upset here. Temple 20 - PSU 17
Phats: Penn State 31 temple 10- PSU didn't do bad against Bama, but just didn't have enough fire power to keep up with the Tide, this week should be a different story.

Pittsburgh at Iowa - Another good week three game. Iowa is stinging from that loss to rival Iowa State. Pitt is 2-0. I think Iowa rebounds and recovers with a good win. Iowa 23 - Pitt 16
Phats: Pitt 24 Iowa 21- Tough loss for Iowa last week, and this week doesn't get any easier. I think the Panthers steal a road win here

SE Missouri State at Purdue - Purdue Pete wins without a blocked FG. Purdue 34 - SEMO 13

Phats: Purdue 28 SEMO 10- OUCH the rice game was a nightmare, and some awful time management in the 4th, but this "should" be a win, and it's sad to even have to say should. Good news sounds like Marve will play some in this one as well. Boiler Up!

Miami (OH) at Minnesota - Will Minnesota play fired up for coach or be a little flat? Hard to be much flatter than last week. Coach Treadwell will have the Red Hawks, nee Redmen, ready to play but the Gophers squeak one out. Minnesota 20 - Miami 17

Minnesota 21 Miami 17- Thoughts and prayers go out to Minnesota coach, hopefully he is good enough to return to the field, and that emotion will be enough to propel the gophers to the win

Michigan State at Notre Dame - I'be making the trip to South Bend and hoping to see MSU win 7 of 8 in Irish territory. ND is better than their record, MSU is improving week to week. Michigan State pulls out another in an epic battle. State 38 - ND 35 in 2OTs.

Phats: Michigan State 28 Notre Dame 24- Here's to hoping the Spartans keep ND winless!!

Northwestern at Army - Love that the Wildcats are going to West Point - the most gorgeous campus in the US. Army is getting better and will be competitive but NU is off to a great start. It will be close but the 'cats get it done. Northwestern 27 - Army 21.

Phats: Northwestern 28 army 14- Northwestern quietly flying under the radar, should stay undefeated but might be a tricky game.

South Carolina State at Indiana - IU blew a great chance to make a statement last week and will come out sluggish this weekend. However, even the Hoosiers can't blow this one. IU 38 - SCS 14

Phats: Indiana 38 south carolina state 23- IU really had a nice come back vs UVA, then the old IU showed up and blew it. They should win this one, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's close football in our state of IN right now just isn't good.

Washington at Nebraska - The rubber match after last year's blow out in Seattle and shocker in San Diego. Nebraska has yet to roll like we thought they would but they get it done in Lincoln. N 30 - W 13.

Phats: Nebraska 31 Washington 17- Nebraska struggled a bit with Fresno, but I haven't been impressed with anybody in the PAC12 yet, and this one is at home Huskers pull away late.

Wisconsin vs. Northern Illinois - MAC v B10 III. UW looks really good. Northern Illinois isn't bad but even having a former Badger coach at the helm won't change the result. Wisconsin 42 - Northern 7

Phats: Wisconsin 41 Northern Illinois 7- Nice to see Wisky traveling to a MAC school, but it shouldn't change the result.

Arizona State at Illinois - Other than the Ineligi-bowl, this is the game of the week. Both teams are off to good starts and look at this as a statement game. ASU has the burden of travel though, so edge to Illinois. Fighting Zookers 24 - Sun Devils 20.

Phats: Arizona State 31 Illinois 21- Fighting Illini finally play someone, and we'll know just how good they are, and even though I said I am not impressed with Pac12 I think they get the win here.

Ohio State at Miami - Ah the Ineligibowl. What Miami is accused of doing makes OSU's transgressions look like child's play. Miami gets some key players back and has a great coach but Ohio State is hungry to show last week was an aberration. Buckeyes 27 - The U 17

Phats: Ohio State 24 Miami 21- I have no clue why I am picking OSU here, they didn't look great against Toledo, but they might have been looking ahead. I am hoping for the Big Ten's sake the Buckeyes can pull this one off.

2011-09-12T16:31:00.000-04:00

Wild week two, what's left for week three?
It was a wild and crazy weekend of teams that shocked, were shocked and everything in between. The MAC nearly bit the Big Ten again, a pair pitched shutouts and there is that definite separation of top and bottom already playing out. Phats got Gamm again, going 9-3 and besting Dan and Mayo on the tiebreaker. Phats, you know the drill!

Team of the Week
Michigan State. Sorry guys, I'm not drinking the UM is back cool aid quite yet. That defense gave up 500+ yards and got a couple of turnover gifts. A few others impressed but one first down, 48 total yards and a shutout? I have to go with the Spartans. Sub-par foe or not, MSU did something that is really hard to do. Better MSU defenses over the years haven't even done this.

MAC Watch
3-1 so far... nearly 2-2. 4 games going this weekend.

Week Three
Eastern Michigan at Michigan
Penn State at Temple
Pittsburgh at Iowa
SE Missouri at Purdue
Miami (OH) at Minnesota
Michigan State at Notre Dame
Northwestern at Army
South Carolina State at Indiana
Washington at Nebraska
Wisconsin vs. Northern Illinois
Arizona State at Illinois
Ohio State at Miami (FL)

2011-09-07T11:45:00.005-04:00

Time to tango - week two is upon usFirst, a hearty congrats and shout out to Phats who went a perfect 12-0 last week! Too bad we seem to have lost Buckeye Nation (is he still in RIP Tressel U mourning?) and Dan, as well as Andrew and some others. But no less, 12-0 was impressive Phats! Send me your picks and I will add them to mine.

Note - welcome back Dan! Not sure why the blog went away... it said there was suspicious activity but we're back now!

Mayo and I went 9-3, not bad, but not good enough!

Week one saw some impressive beginnings, some shaky starts, some lucky finishes and some, well, nasty performances (IU - what the?!). Kudos to Northwestern for the best win of the week and a tip of the hat to Minnesota for a nice start to the Kill era. And, foor those keeping track: Big Ten 2, MAC 1.

No time to belabor the week that was any further, so here is the week that is with a couple of impressive games on the slate.

Florida Atlantic at Michigan State - FAU brings an athletic defense but anemic offense to East Lansing. The Spartans need to shore some gaps, and someone please remind the holder - LACES OUT! I see a smoother game with some big numbers from Baker and Cousins and another great game from Bullough. MSU 41 - FAU 7

Phats: Michigan State 35 FAU 7- Michigan State is my 2nd favorite big ten team behind the Boilers.

Iowa at Iowa State - The Cyclones beat Kurt Warner's alma mater by one in the opener while Iowa rolled. Unfortunately for Iowa, the annual RB injury bug bit again, leaving the Hawkeyes without an impressive freshman. Iowa is better and overcomes a fired up crowd. Iowa 27 - ISU 14

Phats: Iowa 21 Iowa State 14

Oregon State at Wisconsin - The Beavers, of the northern tier in the soon to be Pac 324, lost to Sacramento State in the opener. Meanwhile, the Badgers kicked the runnin' out of the Rebels last week. The Badgers have a top-notch offense, even if there is work to do on D. UW 41 - OSU 17

Phats: Wisconsin 41 Oregon State 10- You would think this would be a better match up, but after OSU losing last week not so sure, and Wisconsin looked pretty tough

South Dakota State at Illinois - Really? Follow up Arkansas State with South Dakota State? No offense to the Jackrabbits, who beat powerhouse Southern Utah in the opener but come on Zooker! The Illini should get plenty of reps for anyone who wants to play. Ill-i-n-i 40 - SDS 13

Phats: Illinois 38 South Dakota State 10
Toledo at Ohio State - OSU goes for 2-0 versus the MAC after an easy slaughter of the Zips. The next fast mascot team to hit C-bus, the Rockets, may be a tad better but don't expect Toledo to add the Bucks to its list of beaten Big Ten teams. Ohio State 45 - Toledo 7

Phats: Ohio State 49 toledo 14- Who made Toledo's schedule? I believe they host Boise State after this game that's a brutal 2 game stretch

Alabama at Penn State - One of two in the Game of the Week sweepstakes. This game has tradition written all over it. Last year, Penn State found out how good the Bama defense was. Might that happen again? I expect a lower scoring affair as Alabama is rounding out the offense. Alabama 20 - Penn State 13.

Phats: Alabama 28 penn state 17- I think this game will be closer than most people think, unfortunately for the Big Ten I don't see us pulling the upset

Eastern Illinois at Northwestern - Yeah. See Illinois commentary. Another week to rest Persa and get a well deserved break after a tough road opener. NU 31 - EIEIO - 10

Phats: ?

New Mexico State at Minnesota - An easier task than a trip to SC for sure. Minnesota notches a win and builds on some of the surprising momentum from the opening loss. Minnesota 34 - NMSU 13

Phats: Minnesota 35 New Mexico State 17- Nice effort by the Gophers at SC, this one should be a little easier and a W!

Purdue at Rice - The Boilers are off to Texas to be entertained by the Rice band. Yep, that's right, this is all about the band. Rice pulls no punches, as it spelled out $EC to Texas Longhorns fans last week. On the field, this could go either way, though Purdue has some momentum from the nice comeback last week. Purdue 27 - Rice 17

Phats: Purdue 24 rice 10- I will take an ugly win any day, especially for a team coming off 6 straight losses, but we really need to clean up some things in week two or we won't be as lucky. Better all around game propels the Boilers to 2-0 and a nice road win. Boiler Up!

Fresno State at Nebraska - Remember when Fresno was the Boise State of college football? The Bulldogs are still decent and aren't afraid to go on the road, but the horses aren't there. Nebraska will only get better from last week and get to 2-0 easily. Cornhuskers 33 - Dogs 10

Phats: Nebraska 49 fresno state 17- Might be closer but who knows still getting to know the Huskers
Virgnia at Indiana - Given that the Hoosiers went to Lucas Oil Field and laid a ginormous egg, I am not going to give this anymore space. UVA breaks a road losing streak. Cavs 37 - Hoosiers 20

Phats: Virginia 42 indiana 21- Different coach, same result.

Notre Dame at Michigan - Game of the Week part duex. ND looked mighty bad in a game that stretched over six hours last week, or at least it felt like that. Michigan got a win in less than three quarters. Some want to canonize the M defense after a two TD performance. While better, take note - ND racked up half a thousand yards but killed itself with mindless turnovers. ND will shore things up. This will be a classic for the first night game in Big House history. I'm going with the non chic pick: ND 27 - M 24

Phats: Michigan 28 notre dame 24- Not really sure how good either of these teams are so this game might tell us something. I don't like ND so GO BLUE

2011-08-29T15:27:00.002-04:00

Let the games begin!August is coming to a close. School is starting back up. Teams are tired of hitting amongst friends. Week one is upon us. Let the games begin!

I can't promise any real consistency in posting, as the schedule is as crazy as ever. But we'll give Get Gamm another shot this fall. After all, we've been at it for, what, almost a decade?

Thursday
UNLV at Wisconsin - Not a total pushover opponent for starters, but UW will find that Russell Wilson was a coup this summer. Badgers 37 - Rebels 13

Friday
Youngstown State at Michigan State - MSU fans keep hearing how they may be better but have a worse record. The talent is there and deep. Of note will be the play of a re-vamped O-Line and Linebacking Corp. MSU 45 - Jim Tressel State 7

Saturday
Northwestern at Boston College - Probably the best matchup of the weekend. NU must have a healthy Persa at the helm all season long if the 'Cats are to surprise. He'll be rusty for this one and facing a very good defense. BC 24 - NU 20

Akron at Ohio State - Round one of three B10 v MAC games on the slate for week one. OSU is without some key players until game six and Luke Fickell will carry a new set of nerves. The QB question is what I'm watching for in a game OSU should roll through regardless. OSU 31 - Zips 3

Indiana State at Penn State - If this was 1979 and we were talking hoops, it might be another story. No indication so far of who will start at QB. My money is on Bolden if PSU wants to take a positive step forward. PSU 45 - ISU 6

Tennessee Tech at Iowa - An easy way to break in some new starters for the Hawkeyes who once again will try to fly under the radar and wind up scary good. Iowa 38 - TTU 0

Middle Tennessee at Purdue - Woe is Purdue. Seriously, has a program been more decimated by injuries of late? The Boilers are very inexperienced at QB and this against a team that has fared quite well the past two seasons. Upset of the day. Middle Tennessee 26 - Purdue 20

Minnesota at USC - I've seen some (Pat Forde) call for an upset here. USC is under the radar due to probation and a ho-hum 2010 campaign. Minnesota has some talent but not the depth or overall horses to win. USC 31 - Minnesota 13

Western Michigan at Michigan - B10 v MAC II. The much anticipated Brady Hoke era cuts loose against a pretty good directional Michigan foe. Western will keep it interesting early but Michigan preps for the big one next week with an easy win. Michigan 42 - WMU 20

Chattanooga at Nebraska - Is it Big Ten against Tennessee weekend or what? The Cornhuskers arrive with a bang on both sides of the ball. Nebraska 56 - Choo Choo 3

Arkansas State at Illinois - Finally, a cupcake for an opener (no more Mizzou). Illinois is a team many think is poised to take the next step. Thing is, I don't always buy that with Zook's teams. Illinois 48 - Arkansas State 10

Indiana vs. Ball State - B10 MAC III should be a decent game but really, at Lucas Oil? IU can't fill Memorial Stadium! I like the new coach and direction and this will be a win, but there is a lot of work to be done. IU 34 - BSU 16

2011-07-18T12:41:00.007-04:00

2011 Season Preview
If your summer has been at all like mine, you are so busy that weeks and weekends blend together. You could use more vacation time to make every weekend the four day variety. You have given little thought to football season in the midst of a good old fashioned heat wave.

As I am all three, my previews are going the way of an overall snapshot this year. Maybe, maybe if there is time in August, I will delve a little deeper team by team, but for now, this will have to do.

As always, I've assigned each and every game for all twelve teams a win or loss to come up with this look. I won't say who I picked where, with the exception of a game here or there. Maybe I will find the time later to give you a more in depth analysis.

Legends Division
6 - Minnesota Golden Gophers: Minnesota has some talent but will take time to adjust to a new coach and system. If anything, I'm aiming low here but hey, not everyone can win at once. Most likely upset win? Illinois. Most intriguing game? Nebraska. Final record... 3-9 (0-8 Big Ten); No bowl game.

5 - Michigan Wolverines: Michigan will respond well to Coach Hoke but like Minnesota, is going to need time to plug the right talent into a new system. Shocking prediction of the preseason? A win against Ohio State. Toughest loss of the season? Notre Dame or Michigan State. Final record... 7-5 (4-4 Big Ten); Ticket City Bowl berth.

T3 - Northwestern Wildcats: The season hinges on the health of Dan Persa. Everyone wants to anoint this team as a dark horse, but with an Achilles injury? I'm not totally sold. Best win? Penn State. Toughest loss? Michigan State. Final record... 8-4 (5-3 Big Ten); Texas Bowl berth.

T3 - Iowa Hawkeyes: Iowa is another one that is a bit tough to peg. On one hand, they replace a solid long-time starting QB and some key contributors. On another - Iowa always reloads with solid pieces and parts. The schedule is favorable for Iowa. Best win? Northwestern. Toughest loss? Nebraska. Final record... 9-3 (5-3 Big Ten); Capital One Bowl

T1 - Michigan State Spartans: MSU has a tough, tough schedule. October is particularly brutal. The offensive weapons are there, but what about the O-line? The defense will be good, but what about the linebacking corps? Biggest win? Wisconsin. Toughest loss? Ohio State. Final record... 10-2 (6-2 Big Ten); Outback Bowl berth (jumped by Iowa due to two appearances in the past three years)

T1 - Nebraska Cornhuskers: Welcome to the Big Ten, Big Red! NU gets Michigan State, Ohio State and Iowa at home. Two road games loom large for Nebraska but I think the Cornhuskers make a big splash in their first season. Biggest win? Ohio State. Toughest loss? Big Ten opener at Wisconsin. Final record... 10-3 (6-2 in Big Ten plus loss in inaugural title game); Orange Bowl berth

Leaders Division:
6 - Indiana Hoosiers: Another program breaking in a new coach. Indiana won't be as bad as it has appeared in some seasons, but has a tough slate. The Hoosiers could surprise someone, but I'm not banking on it. Best chance for an upset win? Northwestern. Most anticipated game? Purdue. Final record... 3-9 (0-8 Big Ten); No bowl berth

5 - Purdue Boilermakers: Purdue is one of those teams that could really prove me wrong this season. Then again, there is a reason I have them here. I will admit, I originally had the Boilers losing to IU and tying for last in the Leaders Division, but felt that might be too bold. Biggest game? Notre Dame. Toughest contest? at Wisconsin. Final record... 5-7 (2-6 Big Ten); No bowl berth.

4 - Illinois Fighting Illini: The Fighting Zookers saved their coach his job last year and return some solid talent. The OOC slate stacks up nicely to bring the Illini momentum heading into Big Ten play. Illinois is a few players away from contending for the division title. Biggest win? Purdue. Toughest loss? Michigan. Again. Final record... 7-5 (3-5 Big Ten); Little Caesars Bowl berth

T2 - Penn State Nitanny Lions: One prediction I know will come to fruition? The when will JoePa talk will not cease. The Nits have a very back loaded schedule and that will bring them back to the pack. The visits from Alabama and Nebraska are very cool and certain white out games (best look from a stadium in college football). Biggest win? Nebraska. Toughest loss? Ohio State. Final record... 8-4 (5-3 Big Ten); Insight Bowl berth.

T2 - Ohio State Buckeyes: Win for the "Luker" will be the battle cry for the embattled Buckeyes this fall. New coach. New QB. Missing other key players for five games. Who knows, maybe even the knowledge that the post season is not gonna happen for the next year or so. Don't be fooled - this team is still loaded and last I checked, you don't win or lose games with off the field stuff. Biggest win? Michigan State. Toughest loss? Michigan. Final record... 8-4 (5-3 Big Ten); Gator Bowl berth (please Coach Fickell, don't punch a Clemson Tiger!)

1 - Wisconsin Badgers: The arrival of a one year rental at QB solidifed this for me. UW plays most of the big boys and aside from a scary payback trip to C-bus, along with a venture to East Lansing, where MSU will be hungry for another win over the Badgers, the toughies are at home. Biggest win? Nebraska. Twice! Toughest loss? at Michigan State. Final record... 12-1 (7-1 Big Ten plus a win in the title game); Rose Bowl berth

Big Ten Title Game:
Nebraska versus Wisconsin in a great rematch of an excellent Big Ten opener. This thriller goes into OT with the Badgers prevailing.

Stay tuned for some preseason award predictions... in the meantime, chew on this and let me know what you think.

2011-05-05T14:08:00.002-04:00

I'm back!
Okay, so it isn't like my email box was filling up with you guys wondering where I am, but I haven't fallen totally off the face of the earth.

It has been a really busy stretch at work with two product lines and two spokespeople to manage. All good, just busy. Oh and plenty to do at home, between being a husband, dad, co-taxi driver (with my wife), sports supporter...

Anyway, enough about me. It's good to be back. Basketball was interesting, to say the least. Spring football has come and gone. The situation at OSU is a debacle and my prediction is that it will only get worse. Billboards in Michigan proclaim "Liar, liar, vest on fire!" Nebraska is joining our ranks and before we know it, this cold, wet spring will give way to a quick summer and - viola - football season.

I do promise to work to get to my previews again this year and to check in a little more regularly than I have been.

Meantime, ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg gives enough great info to tide us over...

2010-12-28T12:15:00.003-05:00

Let's go bowling!
Here's hoping that you all have had a wonderful holiday season so far. Now that bowl season is kicking in full tilt, it is bound to get even more fun. Me? I take this time of the year off so the rest and relaxation is very nice.

Insight Bowl, 12/28 @ 10pm EST: Iowa vs. Missouri
Iowa is under manned but on a mission. Not sure Mizzou feels this was as good as it could get. Iowa 23 - Mizzou 20

Texas Bowl, 12/29 @ 6pm EST: Illinois vs. Baylor
Illinois laid an egg in the Fresno game but is better than their record. Baylor fizzled after a hot start. Ill-i-n-i 30 - Baylor 20

Holiday Bowl, 12/30 @ 10pm EST: Nebraska vs. Washington
Are you kidding? What happened to this game? Historically a great one. UW's only hope is that NU gets lost on the way. Corn 37 - Cool Dogs 17

TicketCity Bowl, 1/1 @ 12pm EST: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech
Northwestern with Persa wins this game. Despite time for the backup to get better acclimated... TT 41 - NU 24

Gator Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Michigan vs. Mississippi State
Is this Rich Rods swan song? This MSU has little offense to speak of but the M defense - or lack thereof will provide chances to score. The Bulldogs get it done. Miss State 26 - M 24

Outback Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Penn State vs. Florida
The retirement bowl? Not according to Mrs. JoePa. Penn State is better than Florida and gets the Big Ten a nice win. PSU 27 - FLA 21

Capital One Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Michigan State vs. Alabama
Not a bad consolation prize for an MSU team that should be in a BCS game. Bama is good, really good, but are they into this game? MSU starts slow but stuns old Nicky Saban on a late trick score. MSU 24 - Bama 17

Rose Bowl, 1/1 @ 5pm EST: Wisconsin vs. TCU
Wisconsin is good. So is TCU. This is an intriguing game of great O vs. great D. I hope the Big Ten gets the W but feel like TCU has something to prove. TCU 20 - UW 17

Sugar Bowl, 1/4 @ 8:30pm EST: Ohio State vs. Arkansas

I still can't believe that money wins of the suspensions. But then again, it is why Cam Newton is still playing. OSU wins a wild one 31 to 28.

2010-12-16T08:46:00.003-05:00

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Happy Holidays TFS followers!

It has been a wild, busy stretch for me but I finally have a few minutes to post some football thoughts, think a little hoops and get the Get Gamm finale up and running.

I realize that I've missed blogging about the Big Ten - ACC Challenge (Victory for the Big Ten!) and that I didn't even get the most basic of hoops predictions up. Work and life go that way sometimes. Hoops and swimming for my kids, a ton of travel lately with a busy winter ahead, and some cool stuff at work, such as signing Kurt Warner to be spokesperson for my product line, have all taken me away from the blog. But never fear, I'm back! At least for a few visits over the next couple of weeks...

Final regular season football thoughts... It was a great year for the Big Ten. While a wide chasm exists between the top (Michigan State, Ohio State and Wisconsin) and the rest of the pack who sits at 7-5 or worse, the league is set up to have some success in the bowl season. Can the conference continue last year's momentum? Shut up the SEC? Win the big ones? I hope so.

I am still a little sore at the BCS snub for the Spartans. Not because UW and tOSU aren't deserving. But rather because UConn gets to go at 8-4? Please. We need a tweak to the rules for who qualifies for BCS games. That said, the fam is going to Orlando for our third trip in four years during bowl season and the match-up with 'Bama is one of the best of all 35 games.

The league mopped up in award season, and deservedly so. I still don't get how Ray Guy leaves out an Aaron Bates but as I live at the office sometimes, politics can reign over facts and data!

I am ambivalent to the recent division names announcement from the conference. I'd have preferred something more like Lakes and Plains or Black and Blue but it is what it is. I also have to mimic a question from some of the national pundits... that logo? Seriously? The Big Ten paid to have that made? My 3rd grade daughter came up with something nicer... and for FREE! In the end, that is all window dressing but still, we couldn't get better? The awards? Now those they nailed...

Hooping it up... Bummed that I never got around to picking the Big Ten. There are going to be a lot of good teams and the race is as open as ever. Right now I'd have to say I like Ohio State to repeat, but don't count out MSU just because of some early losses.

It was also nice to see the league rough up the ACC a bit. Hoping that trend continues.

As for Get Gamm for hoops... probably a no go this year. Just too much to do and too many games to try and track. Instead, let's do this. Everyone pick the order of finish (ties are fine) and the closest to wins Get Gamm for bball. Deal? Tiebreaker is teams in the Big Dance.

Speaking of Get Gamm... The only playa to have a better than .500 record in the last week was Dan. That moved him into a tie at the top with nine bowl games to pick. Picks are due by December 28 at 10pm EST.

Insight Bowl, 12/28 @ 10pm EST: Iowa vs. Missouri
Texas Bowl, 12/29 @ 6pm EST: Illinois vs. Baylor
Holiday Bowl, 12/30 @ 10pm EST: Nebraska vs. Washington
TicketCity Bowl, 1/1 @ 12pm EST: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech
Gator Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Michigan vs. Mississippi State
Outback Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Penn State vs. Florida
Capital One Bowl, 1/1 @ 1pm EST: Michigan State vs. Alabama
Rose Bowl, 1/1 @ 5pm EST: Wisconsin vs. TCU
Sugar Bowl, 1/4 @ 8:30pm EST: Ohio State vs. Arkansas

2010-11-27T20:44:00.002-05:00

Tri-champs

So, we have a three way tie at the top of the Big Ten heap, with the rest of the pack well back. Each of the three is going to argue its merits as the Rose Bowl rep. And I'll listen intently, but am going to tell you who I think deserves to go. And I'm going to do it based on facts, not my heart...

Michigan State deserves to go. Michigan State is the only team other than Auburn in the soon to be new BCS Top Ten with a schedule rating in the top 33. OSU and Wisconsin? Right around 60.

And beyond that SOS stuff, which is subjective, how about head to head. MSU was 1-0 against the other two. Wisconsin was 1-1. Ohio State was 0-1. Not MSU or OSU's fault they didn't play one another so at the same time, why punish the Spartans? Because the green and white beat UW longer ago? Give me a break.

The BCS was made to get the top two teams together in the title game and does a pretty fair job at it. But the rest of the bowls? JOKE. The real argument is that the Big Ten should be sending three teams to represent in the Big Four bowls. The Big Least and ACC should be left on the sidelines. But that won't happen, so back to now.

Michigan State is going to get screwed here, even though the Spartans deserve the Rose Bowl and at the very least, an at-large BCS berth. Why? Because those who vote and pay no attention will see what Wisconsin did to Indiana and a banged-up Northwestern at the end of the season.

And Badgers out there, spare me the MSU couldn't beat UW how they are playing today. The Spartans beat Wisconsin when Clay was healthy, and stopped his long 100-yard rushing game streak. Oh and State did it after finding out less than 24 hours earlier that Head Coach Mark Dantonio was back in the hospital with a blood clot. If ever a team could have an excuse to fold, that was it.

I know I'm preaching to no one and certainly won't get support from my Buckeye friends, but hey, it is what it is. Michigan State should go to the Rose Bowl, Wisconsin the at-large and tOSU the Capital One. But hey, I'm just a blogger, happy as pigs in you-know-what that my Alma mater finally won the big one and gets to lay claim to a Big Ten title...

2010-11-26T19:55:00.003-05:00

Get Gamm - Regular Season Finale

Hope everyone had a peaceful, quiet, relaxing and stuffing Thanksgiving. Sorry for my late post - especially for Twin City Buckeye who was the only unbeaten last week - but work has been a zoo and time has slipped away.

That means no Nebraska pick this week... but maybe I'll toss it in for the Big 12 Title game. May or may not get to the Big Ten / ACC Challenge either. Funny how basketball doesn't grab your attention as quickly when your team is having a great football season.

Michigan at Ohio State - Let's be clear. I am not rooting for Michigan to beat tOSU, even though it helps my Spartans in the big picture. Now, should OSU have an epic stumble, so be it! On that point... no way that happens. Michigan will fight for a half, but no longer. OSU 42 - Michigan 20.

Michigan State at Penn State - History is not on MSU's side in Happy Valley. However, word that JoePa is coming back helps take some of the potential PSU frenzy out of the fray. This is a rare time where the Spartans should win this contest. Make no mistake, it will be a battle and I think it will take another special teams play to get it done. Conroy from 48 as time expires. MSU 30 - PSU 27.

Iowa at Minnesota - Iowa is playing for the Outback rather than the Gator. Might not seem like much but you know this wounded team wants to finish strong. Minnesota got a nice win over Illinois and keeps this tight for a bit, but then the Pig goes back to Iowa. Iowa 31 - Minnesota 20.

Indiana at Purdue - IU is playing to save Coach Lynch. Purdue is playing to end the season strong and is already looking to health and prosperity in 2011 - since neither were there in 2010. Purdue has to be angry about the way last week slipped away and will take it out on an Indiana team that wasn't quite as bad as the record shows. Purdue 27 - Indiana 23

Northwestern at Wisconsin - OSU and MSU wish Dan Persa was healthy and playing. NU often gives UW fits but not this time. Wisconsin rolls and likely gains the Roses... Wisconsin 37 - Northwestern 17

Illinois at Fresno State - The Illini want to go out strong and make it a solid seven on the season. Fresno is always a tough place to play, but I think Illinois is better than its 6-5 record and gets a nice, solid, season ending win. Ill-I-N-I 35 - Fresno 23

2010-11-18T11:16:00.003-05:00

Get Gamm - Week 12
It is hard to believe that we have but two weeks left in the regular season. Heck, hoops started this week and I have hardly even had the time to digest the success of my Spartans on the gridiron! That's a nice change.

Buckeye Nation is picking with me this week, his first win of the season. Only a few more chances to get to that top spot...

Penn State vs. Indiana (Landover, MD)
Gamm says... Both of these teams were shellacked last weekend. Penn State hung for a half before the bottom dropped out. IU held on for a little more than a quarter before becoming talk show fodder. Really? You can't stop the opponent on ONE possession in a game? The Hoosiers sold out to earn some cash in lieu of a home game. Penn State gets healthy and secures win number seven at FedEx Field. Penn State 34 - Indiana 17

Buckeye Nation says... How pathetic is it for Indiana football? On the heels of giving up over 80 points, you now play a "home" game 500 miles away. Penn State had the range of emotions last Saturday, exhilaration then humiliation, all in the span of 3 hours. Indiana felt only the humiliation part. What's worse, the Hoops team is still at least a year or two away from being legitimate again.The nightmare for Indiana continues as PSU CEO JoePa secures win 401. Penn State 37 - Indiana 17

Purdue at Michigan State
Gamm says... Two teams with a prize in mind. Purdue needs two wins to go bowling. Michigan State needs two wins to clinch at least a share of its first Big Ten title since 1990. Purdue's defense is looking really good and Ryan Kerrigan is a flat out stud. But the offense is shaky at best, as evidenced by the paltry output against the world's worst defense - Michigan. State takes a half to shake the BYE week rust, but rolls in the end. MSU 33 - Purdue 14.

Buckeye Nation says... The Boilers are in the throes of a 4-games losing streak, but have shown flashes of promise in their last two losses to Wisconsin and Michigan. The Boilers can become bowl eligible with a win at MSU and a likely win against Indiana for the Old Oaken Bucket. However, this will be Senior Day in East Lansing with the best senior class in the Dantonio era, and they will not deny the Spartan faithful a home win. Look for Kirk Cousins to have his way on Saturday. Michigan State 31 - Purdue 13

Wisconsin at Michigan
Gamm says... It is hard for me to believe that with the success this UW program has had in the past 20 years, it has only won twice in Ann Arbor in the past 50 years. Michigan is securely in a bowl with seven wins but wants to become prominent again. UW is playing very well right now and has Pasadena in sight. Michigan will keep this a game, but in the end, Wisconsin has too much ball control and run game for the Wolverines to overcome. UW 38 - Michigan 27

Buckeye Nation says... As much as I hate to say it, the Badgers have been on a roll. Except for one afternoon in East Lansing, they find a way to win in the tough games, and blow away the bottom-feeders. Even with RB Clay out, the Badgers hung 83 points on Indiana. The Wolverines are bowl eligible for the first time in the RichRod era, and will close out the home schedule with Wisconsin. UW has won only twice in the past 50 years in Ann Arbor. While I won't be rooting for a Michigan win this weekend, I will be rooting for a Wisconsin loss. Gotta go with the heart. Michigan 42 - Wisconsin 41

Illinois at Northwestern (Wrigley Field)
Gamm says... Just when Zook thought his hide was safe. An epic loss to Michigan and then allowance of a game winning drive, at home, to the very worst team in the Big Ten? Suddenly, Illinois has to win one of the last two to get to a bowl and neither is a given. Northwestern has to replace Dan Persa but you know what, every time NU has had to replace a signal caller in the past, the understudy steps in and steps up big. This will be cool, with Game Day in tow. Illinois finds a way to get it done, but barely. Illinois 27 - Northwestern 24

Buckeye Nation says... Two teams at a crossroads this season. The Wildcats, coming off another HUGE win against Iowa, have lost their QB leader Dan Persa for the season. The Illini, not yet bowl eligible, looked to be the surprise team in the conference until they lost the scoring battle in Ann Arbor, and followed it up with a disheartening loss to the hapless, coach-less Gophers. In case you hadn't heard, the Lincoln Trophy game will be at Wrigley Field this year instead of Evanston. But Chicago is an Illini town as much if not more so than it is a Wildcat town. Without Persa, the Cats just aren't the same team. Illinois 27 - Northwestern 17

Ohio State at Iowa (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says... A few weeks ago, I had this pegged as the help MSU needed. I've been back and forth a million times on this one. OSU has a mega conference title streak to uphold. Iowa has played pissed off football and done major damage coming off of losses. Senior Day at Kinnick. A chance to spoil a season for someone, much in the way the Wildcats have done to the Hawks the past two years. Iowa still has an outside hope for a four way tie at 6-2 and puts MSU in the diver's seat, mere weeks after slapping Sparty around in Iowa City. Iowa 24 - OSU 23

Buckeye Nation says... Given the recent losses by Iowa, this game has lost a little bit of its luster, but not from the viewpoint of its participants, or the conference standings. Ricky Stanzi gets to face the team that didn't want the native Ohioan. The Buckeyes, after one of their worst halves of the season against Penn State, then put together one of their best halves in burying the Lions in the Horseshoe. This will be a hard-hitting game, but the Buckeyes remain focused after seeing what lethargy will do them with the memory of halftime from last Saturday. Terrelle Pryor and Boom Herron keep it running on all cylinders for OSU. Ohio State 34 - Iowa 17

Nebraska at Texas A&M
Gamm says... I like this game. A&M is playing very well right now. Nebraska is too, however, and wants to leave the Big 12 with a bang. A win here clinches the North. A&M is a bit of a long shot to win the South but wants to keep momentum high. The home field advantage at Kyle Field is nice and I think it is enough to get the Aggies a W. A&M 30 - Nebraska 28

Buckeye Nation says... Bo Pelini called out the Husker fans for their blase attitude last Saturday. This time, he will have to call out his troops for a tough game at College Station. On their way out of the Big 12, Nebraska makes the Aggie fans bid them good riddance. Nebraska 24 - Texas A&M 21

2010-11-16T11:12:00.003-05:00

Weekend recap...
Just when you thought last weekend was going to be sort of boring, BAM! We had an upset, major points being scored, a second half outburst and more. And after it all... there are now three teams with an eye on the prize (Pasadena).

First of all, props to my Team of the Week Northwestern. Down 17-7, the Wildcats picked off a pass as they faced a coffin nailing 24-7 deficit and turned in a frenetic finish and a 21-17 upset win. Sure, Player of the Week Dan Persa is lost for the season after a strange Achilles tendon blowout, but that didn't stop ESPN Game Day from saddling up to watch the battle for Sweet Sioux (I know, now it is actually Lincoln's head or something) at Wrigley Field.

The second eye popper was UW scoring on every possession and making the Hoosiers appear as though they were a late entry to the Halloween party, masquerading as a D3 squad. Ouch. 83 freaking points? By a run first team like the Badgers? And without John Clay? Maybe Indiana and Minnesota can share interviews as both will assuredly be seeking a new coach.

Ohio State was sloppy and sleepy early, but burst the legend of Matt McGloin with a huge second half. The Bucks are playing well right now with two tests left...

Props to Minnesota for finding a way to beat Illinois. Two thumbs down to the Illini for blowing a great chance to secure a New Year's Day bowl berth.

The ho-hum, boring game of the week was in West Lafayette. More slop than a pig barn at feeding time. Enough said.

Get Gamm...
Congrats to past champ Buckeye Nation, who was closest in a log jam to the tiebreaker and gets his first W of the season. BN - you know the drill.

Penn State vs. Indiana (Landover, MD)
Purdue at Michigan State
Wisconsin at Michigan
Illinois at Northwestern
Ohio State at Iowa (Tiebreaker)
Nebraska at Texas A&M

Bowl Outlook...
It is a three team race for Pasadena. Wisconsin hasn't won in Ann Arbor since I was in college. Ohio State gets to face an angry Iowa team at Kinnick. Michigan State has Purdue at home. Here is how I see it playing out...

Rose Bowl - Wisconsin (wins out, best ranked BCS team)
Fiesta Bowl - Ohio State (wins out, gets nod over MSU)
Capital One Bowl - Michigan State (wins out, gets passed over by BCS for the second time - 1999 was the other)
Outback Bowl - Iowa
Gator Bowl - Penn State
Insight Bowl - Michigan
Texas Bowl - Northwestern
TicketCity Bowl - Illinois

2010-11-13T08:25:00.007-05:00

Get Gamm - Week Eleven

Sorry guys... been on the road for work and am getting this in just under the wire!

Twin City is picking with me this week and since I have no time, he's the main commentator.

Indiana at Wisconsin

Gamm says... IU won't play UW as close as they did Iowa. Wisconsin 34 - Indiana 10

TwinCityBuckeye says... IU is winless in Big 10 but gave Iowa a scare last week. Can they do the same to Wiscy? Uh, no. Wisconsin-33 Indiana-17

Iowa at Northwestern

Gamm says... NU has a way of biting the Hawkeyes. But Iowa's attention was received last week in Bloomington. Iowa 27 - NU 23

TCB says... Hawkeyes have a big one looming next week in Iowa City and must guard against looking ahead. Plus, Wildcats always seem to play them tough. This will be another nail-biter for Hawkeye fans. Iowa-27 Northwestern-21

Michigan at Purdue

Gamm says... If Purdue had a full compliment, I'd go with old black and gold. But that's not the case. M gets its last win of the season. Michigan 41 - Purdue 27

TCB says... Wolverines are bowl-eligible! They will be feeling good about themselves while PU suffers through an injury-riddled season. This should be yet another high-scoring game. Michigan-41 Purdue-28

Illinois at Minnesota

Gamm says... Illinois bounces back BIG. ILL-I-N-I 40 - Minny ha ha 10

TCB says... Can't think of a more boring game. Illini will wash out the bitterness of last weeks shootout with a "gind-it-out" win over the hapless Goofers. Illinois-24 Minnesota-13

Penn State at Ohio State

Gamm says... Game of the week in a light week. PSU is playing well, but OSU better. OSU 34 - Penn State 21

TCB says... Nittany Lions are "insulted" by the 17 point spread and will use that as motivation. One problem, they have nowhere near the talent of OSU. Ohio State-31 Penn State-14

Kansas at Nebraska

Gamm says... Corn rolls 41 - 14

TCB says... Huskers will be unkind to Nebraska alum Turner Gill. This will be ugly. Nebraska-45 Kansas-13

2010-11-08T12:41:00.003-05:00

Week Ten Recap
It was a truly wild and crazy weekend in the Big Ten, including for a future com padre. In the end, not much changed but it was a great ride getting there.

Illinois and Michigan played an overtime battle for the ages and not one that any defensive coordinator would ever like. 67-65. Almost a mile of total offense. And in the end, Michigan gets to go bowling once more.

Michigan State rolled as expected. Wisconsin rolled but after a half of wake up time. Northwestern jumped out big early but ended up watching Penn State celebrate Joe Pa's 400th win.

Iowa got lucky. Indiana dropped what appeared to be the game-winning touchdown with :18 remaining. And Nebraska dodged a bullet, squandering a two-score lead and batting away Iowa State's attempt to win on a fake PAT in overtime.

Team of the Week... I'll give it to Penn State. Great comeback and a very nice celebration of the winningest D1 coach in history.

Player of the Week... So many options. Mikel Leshoure. Ray Roundtree. Edwin Baker. Nathan Scheelhaase. We'll let them all share it!

Get Gamm... Everyone but TwinCityBuckeye went 5-1. TCB was perfect and gets to pick this week.

Schedule:
Indiana at Wisconsin
Iowa at Northwestern
Michigan at Purdue
Minnesota at Illinois
Penn State at Ohio State (Tiebreaker)
Kansas at Nebraska

2010-11-05T10:43:00.004-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Ten
November is here. The skies have immediately gone gray and will probably stay that way. The air is crisp. The trees are barren. But while the air cools and the daylight strays, the league is heating up and the spotlight is shining bright.

We have a four team race for the title. We have ten teams that still have bowl hopes. Hang on tight. This is going to be a fun ride to the finish...

Iowa at Indiana
Gamm says... Trap game for Iowa? The Hawkeyes have had to get sky high for two straight and hit the road for the first time in a while. Indiana is hanging on for its ever-loving bowl life, needing two to qualify and probably three to be totally safe. I see the Hoosiers hanging early with a hung over Iowa squad, but in the end, Stanzi and the Hawks are too much to contain. Iowa 31 - Indiana 20.

Illinois at Michigan
Gamm says... Are you kidding? Michigan is favored in this game? Sorry Wolverines, but if I'm Vegas and I already bit it hard by making you the five point fave against rival Sparty, I'm not sticking my neck out on this one. Illinois might be playing the best football in the conference right now. Ron Zook has saved his job and now the Illini have sights set on a New Year's Day bowl berth. Michigan's defense is a complete and utter disaster. Somehow worse than the previous two years. And the Illini are TOUGH in that front seven. Illinois 34 - Michigan 27

Minnesota at Michigan State
Gamm says... Perfect timing for this one for MSU. And if you're thinking MSU will look past the Gophers, I'll give you a Lee Corso "not so fast my friend." If you recall, Michigan State lost to Minny last season, thanks in part to some controversial calls or reversals. The Spartans were stung in Iowa but still have a title to play for. The bowl picture may not be simple but one thing is, win out, win at least a piece of the championship. There is a lot to play for. A bye is in sight and I expect MSU to leave it all out there, rush for over 300 yards and dominate. Michigan State 45 - Minnesota 17

Wisconsin at Purdue
Gamm says... After the surprising win in Evanston, Purdue has come crashing back to earth. Hard. Tough to win in this deep conference with so many key players lost for the season. Wisconsin may start sluggish after the bye, but should dominate this game. UW 30 - Purdue 10

Northwestern at Penn State (tiebreaker)
Gamm says... On a week with a really light slate, this is the best game on tap. Northwestern is looking to go New Year's bowling again. Penn State needs one more for bowl eligibility and No. 400 for Joe Pa. Play this at Ryan Field and NU gets the upper hand. But somehow, someway, the Nits will get it done, even if not truly the better team on the field. Penn State 24 - Northwestern 23.

Nebraska at Iowa State
Gamm says... I'm willing to be the Cornhuskers don't look past an ISU squad that tore apart the one team that gave Big Red its lone loss on the season. It will be a good game, as the Cyclones are improving and T-Magic may not be at full strength. Still, Nebraska makes a big play late and sneaks out of Ames with another W. Nebraska 27 - Iowa State 20.

2010-11-01T09:16:00.005-04:00

Week Nine Recap + Season in Review...
The Big Ten race became as clear as mud this weekend as Iowa thumped the Spartans. There are four teams in the race, with a max of three that can win this thing (via tie) in the end). No offense to the two loss teams, a one loss team - or three - will win this race.

Ohio State rolled. Penn State smacked Michigan in the face and has the Fire RichRod heat back on high. Northwestern bored us to a win over Indiana and Illinois continues to impress. Oh and future Big Ten foe Nebraska smacked rival Mizzou around in Lincoln.

This Monday, it is a typical recap and then an in-depth look at where things stand with regard to my preseason predictions, and where I expect it to go from here with four weeks remaining. Get Gamm is posted at the bottom. This week's winner? Phats beat TwinCityBuckeye and AndrewJ1313 in the tiebreaker, with all three going a perfect 6-0.

Team of the Week... Iowa. Has to be. Iowa played its most complete game of the season and put the Spartans on their heels from the get go. Iowa needs to win out and get some help from folks playing the Spartans and Badgers to get to the Rose Bowl, but can still grab a piece of the title.

Player of the Week... Ricky Stanzi. Now with 19 TDs to 2 INTs, Stanzi didn't put up gaudy numbers (except the three scores) but just has a knack for leading his team to victory.

What was predicted, where we are, where we're going...
So, of course those who follow this blog know that I predict the season each summer, including specific wins and losses. Once we get to Get Gamm, I adjust based on what is going on. There have been some mild surprises (Illinois and Michigan State) but generally, things are pretty close to what I projected. Following is a team by team look at what I predicted for the season, where that means teams should be right now, where teams actually sit and what I project the rest of the way.

Based on preseason order from worst to first...

Minnesota: I had them going 4-8 (1-7) and finishing in a tie for tenth. Based on that, they should be 4-5 (1-4) right now. They are actually 1-8 (0-5) and on their way to a very ugly 1-11 (0-8) finish. The Gophers have Michigan State, Illinois and Iowa left. Ouch.

Indiana: I had them going 5-7 (1-7) and finishing in a tie for tenth. Based on that, they should be 5-3 (1-3) right now. They are actually 4-4 (0-4) and on their way to a disappointing 4-8 (0-8) finish. The Hoosiers have Iowa, Wisconsin, Penn State and Purdue left.

Illinois: I had them going 4-8 (2-6) and finishing tied for eighth. That means they should be 3-5 (1-4) right now, but the Illini are a pleasant surprise at 5-3 (3-2). I see them at 8-4 (5-3) when all is said and done, and a well deserved trip to Jacksonville for the Gator Bowl on the horizon. The Illini have Michigan, Minnesota, Northwestern and Fresno State left.

Michigan: I had the Wolverines going 5-7 (2-6) and finishing in a tie for eighth. Should be 3-5 (0-4) right now based on that prediction, but are actually 5-3 (1-3). I do see a bowl in Rich Rod's future, but only a 6-6 (2-6) finish, landing the Wolverines in the newly created Dallas Football Classic. Illinois, Purdue, Wisconsin and Ohio State remain.

Purdue: Of course my record for Purdue was based on not losing the first and second string QBs, top producing WR and the starting RB. But stuff happens. I had Purdue going 7-5 (3-5) and finishing seventh. That would have the Boilers 6-2 (2-2) right now. While actually 2-2 in the Big Ten, those OOC losses are going to burn the 4-4 Boilers. I see a 5-7 (3-5) finish and no bowl game. Wisconsin, Michigan, Michigan State and Indiana remain.

Northwestern: The Wildcats are right on track with what I projected. I had them going 8-4 (4-4) with a solo sixth place finish. That means they should be 7-1 (3-1) right now, but are actually 6-2 (2-2). The schedule gets tough, so I see a 7-5 (3-5) finish, good for a berth in the Texas Bowl. Penn State, Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin loom.

Penn State: Penn State is a team that I had nailed to date. Not sure what the national pundits were thinking but I knew this was an inexperienced crew. I had the Nittany Lions going 8-4 (5-3) and finishing tied for fourth. That predicted means that PSU should be 5-3 (2-2) right now and they are exactly that. I see a 7-5 (4-4) finish and a trip to the Insight Bowl in JoePa's future. Northwestern, Ohio State, Indiana and Michigan State remain.

Michigan State: My exact words in the preseason were "Wisconsin, Northwestern and Iowa stand between MSU and a phenomenal season." Well, as of now, only Iowa stood in the way. I had State going 9-3 (5-3) and tying with Penn State for fourth. That had them 6-3 (2-3) at this time, but reality is much better... 8-1 (4-1) and tied for first. I see MSU winning out and grabbing a piece of the title, and getting to Pasadena on the three team tiebreaker. 11-1 (7-1) and a date with future Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh and the Stanford Cardinal. Minnesota, Purdue and Penn State are left to play.

Wisconsin: The Badgers are as good as I expected. I had them going 10-2 (6-2) and finishing third. That means they should sit at 6-2 (2-2) right now. Reality is they are 7-1 (3-1) and sitting pretty to finish 11-1 (7-1) and get an at large BCS berth. Purdue, Indiana, Michigan and Northwestern remain.

Iowa: The Hawkeyes are just about what I expected as well. I picked a narrow loss to Arizona... it is the loss to Wisconsin that has me tripped up this far. Based on the 10-2 (7-1), second place finish I predicted, Iowa should be 7-1 (4-0) to date. The black and gold are actually 6-2 (3-1) and heading to 11-1 (7-1). Indiana, Northwestern, Ohio State and Minnesota are all that's left before the Hawks hit Orlando for the Capital One Bowl.

Ohio State: tOSU is one loss from what I predicted. I had them 12-0 (8-0) and in the national title game. The poisonous nuts should be 9-0 (5-0) given that projection but are actually 8-1 (4-1). The trip to Kinnick will knock OSU to the Outback Bowl and a 10-2 (6-2) finish. Penn State, Iowa and Michigan remain.

Get Gamm:
Iowa at Indiana
Illinois at Michigan
Minnesota at Michigan State
Wisconsin at Purdue
Northwestern at Penn State (tiebreaker)
Nebraska at Iowa State

2010-10-29T15:49:00.010-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Nine
Here we go. Big game in the Big Ten this week... seems like there is one every week now, and that's a good thing. The media is talking about our conference and life is good.

I'll weigh in quick on the Rucker situation. He has paid his dues and I trust Coach Dantonio to get it right. If he plays in Iowa City, so be it. He won't be there difference between a win and a loss.

Northwestern at Indiana
Gamm says... Could be a lot of fireworks for this one. That said, IU was pretty horrible on offense at Illinois last weekend. Northwestern is stinging from two straight losses and hungry to get to bowl eligibility. Persa leads the 'cats to a nice road W. NU 37 - IU 24

mayo170 says... I really thought that Indiana might be able to get over a hump of sorts earlier this year. But the Hoosier defense has to be the only one that looks worse than Michigan this year. Northwestern on the other hand has been able to chug along as a very decent upper-middle-pack Big Ten team this year. Wildcats 41 – Hoosiers 24

Purdue at Illinois
Gamm says... I said it earlier this week, Illinois is the most improved team. That defense is nails and will tear up a beaten and battered Purdue squad. The Boilers will give it a run but don't have nearly enough. ILL-I-N-I 26 - Purdue 9

mayo170 says...Wow. I was seriously thinking at the beginning of the season that Zook would be gone before Brewster at Minnesota. The Illini defense is pretty solid this year and the offense has been okay. Purdue is a hard team to figure out, but they appear now to be falling for the remainder of the year. Illinois 27 – Purdue 21

Michigan State at Iowa
Gamm says... Not just my game of the week. Once again, everyone is picking against the Spartans. Vegas says MSU is fool's gold. I say let 'em talk. Iowa is still stung by the loss last week and is banged up and not playing as well defensively as projected. These teams have battled to marvelous games and finishes often the past several years and this will be no different. Dan Conroy hits a 44-yard field goal as time expires and MSU wins 27-24.

mayo170 says... In 16 years of marriage to a Spartan Family, I have never seen them so excited in the Fall. I really feel good for the University as a whole because this has been an exceptional year. Iowa, still a very dangerous team and certainly having home field advantage, could be as good a test for the Spartans as they’ll see until January. I see a slight advantage in the MSU balance over the Hawkeyes and a huge Spartan win. Michigan State 24 – Iowa 20

Michigan at Penn State
Gamm says... Let this be a lesson ABC/ESPN... don't ass-u-me that these traditional powers are going to deserve to put us to sleep on a Saturday night. Michigan has hit a wall of late. Penn State is young and struggling. The teams are actually pretty even and that will make it a good game. I'm going with the road team yet again, as D-Rob awakens the Heisman hype. Little Sister 31 - PSU 27.

mayo170 says... It sure doesn’t seem that long ago that this was a marquee Big Ten matchup. This year it’s more of a middle of the pack, who wants to avoid the Detroit Pizza Bowl game. Michigan 34 – Penn State 22

Ohio State at Minnesota
Gamm says... A bit of a head scratcher as to why this was selected as a regional night game for ABC too. Two weeks ago, we knew Iowa and MSU was meaningful. Certainly more so than this. And the way OSU crushed Purdue last weekend, whoa. The Bucks are going to steamroll a very inferior Minnesota squad. OSU 48 - Minnesota 7

mayo170 says... Hopefully the Minnesota equipment manager is bringing extra band aids and ice packs. This one is going to hurt. I really feel bad for Adam Weber, as he seems to be a solid quarterback who ended up in school at the wrong time. Ohio State is still the Big Ten reigning champion and Terrell Pryor will probably not see much play in the second half if it goes the way it should. Ohio State 47 – Minnesota 13

Missouri at Nebraska
Gamm says... I can't picture this game without thinking about the immaculate reception in 1997 that saved Nebraska's national title run. Missouri is good, real good. Nebraska is a lame 5-4 at home in Big Twelve conference games under Pelini. Still, the Cornhuskers are hungry to leave the Big Twelve as the ruler of the North and get it done here in a thriller. NEB 33 - Mizzou 31

mayo170 says... Perhaps a look at a future Big Ten matchup? Probably won’t know for a while, but this is Missouri’s chance to win on a huge stage. Winning at Nebraska is a tall order for anyone, except maybe Texas and Oklahoma, and Missouri seems to have a legit shot to win on paper. While I think this will be a good game, I don’t think the Tigers can pull it out this year. Nebraska 27 – Missouri 23

2010-10-26T14:17:00.002-04:00

Week Eight Recap...
Putting on my Spartans hat... thank you Wisconsin. Michigan State now sits alone atop the Big Ten, with Iowa, Wisconsin and Ohio State the main contenders just a game back. Things will continue to get more and more interesting as each week passes, especially as these four vie for two BCS spots (tops) and the Hawkeyes still entertain both State's.

What we learned... Illinois built on the great showing in State College and the strong performance at Michigan State with a blasting of Indiana. The Illini are arguably the most improved team in the league. MSU is better too but was in close games a season ago. Illinois was bad last year and after the Mizzou game looked to be in the same state this season. Not so fast. Mizzou is that good and Illinois is making a case as the best middle of the pack team in the conference this year.

Team of the Week... I'm going to go with Wisconsin. A week after a rousing win over then No. 1 Ohio State, the Badgers went on the road and knocked off Iowa in dramatic fashion. A fake punt, some great last minute defense and a solid win has the Badgers through the gauntlet and waiting for the other shoe to drop with the rest of the league.

Player of the Week... I've got to go with my QB Kirk Cousins. With the run game held at bay again this week, Cousins delivered key pass after key pass and led the Spartans to a fantastic, come from behind win at Northwestern.

Get Gamm update... Congrats to Mayo for going a perfect 6-0 on the week. Here are the games for this week.

Northwestern at Indiana
Purdue at Illinois
Michigan State at Iowa (Tiebreaker)
Michigan at Penn State
Ohio State at Minnesota
Missouri at Nebraska

2010-10-21T13:20:00.004-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Eight...
A little late getting to the blog this week. Crazy as work. So call this Thursday afternoon QB plus Get Gamm. Speaking of which, congrats to Dan for besting the field and earning the right to pick with me. I'm impressed that he even did his own grading, figured out that he won and sent me his picks.

Team of the Week... Wisconsin. Badgers laid a between the tackles beat down on tOSU and finally made the Bucks pay for shoddy special team's coverage.

Player of the Week... I'm giving it to the UW O-line. The Badger front owned the line of scrimmage in knocking off number 1.

Get Gamm...

Indiana at Illinois
Gamm says... I saw Illinois in person last week and that front seven is legit. Even have a guy by that name - different spelling however. Illinois might be the most improved team from last year. I see the Illini halting Indiana and rolling in this. ILL-INI 30 - IU 14.

Dan says... Indiana 14 at ILLINOIS 27--Illini win over Penn State is more impressive than any win IU has at the moment.

Michigan State at Northwestern
Gamm says... I know what the pundits are saying, "another trap game for MSU." Everyone keeps waiting for the shoe to drop, but I don't see it. I am not saying this team is 12-0 bound but the win last week didn't impress the players and that shows me the focus. This will be a close game, but MSU will boot a field goal late to put the game out of reach. State 34 - NU 24

Dan says... MICHIGAN STATE 27 at Northwestern 24--Would not be shocked by a Wildcat win, but Sparty is red hot right now.

Penn State at Minnesota
Gamm says... Minnesota is playing for an interim coach and will be fired up. Penn State has had a week to lick its wounds and get back to work. I expect the Nits to roll in the Twin Cities. Cats 30 - Au revior Gophers 7

Dan says... PENN STATE 24 at Minnesota 17--The disappointment bowl goes to JoePa.

Purdue at Ohio State
Gamm says... Purdue is playing well and stung the Bucks last year. I sense payback. OSU wants to prove last week was a fluke and last year was an aberration. The Boilers finally get whipped with a make-shift lineup. OSU 27 - Purdue 10

Dan says... Purdue 6 at OHIO STATE 34--Obviously, I hope for a much better result, but this week will test Phat's commitment to never pick against the Boilers. Buckeyes will be extra focused and not sure that Dierking can run for 100 vs. the Scarlet and Grey.

Wisconsin at Iowa (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says... Game of the Year - so far - in the Big Ten. Why? It is the first of three in a gauntlet for Iowa, albeit all played in Hawkeye friendly confines. Wisconsin is feeling as good after OSU as it did bad after losing to MSU. Can the Badgers get up again? Is Iowa ready for a big test? Brawn vs. brawn. Mano -a- mano. An overtime instant classic. Iowa 24 - UW 21.

Dan says... Wisconsin 21 at IOWA 24--I presume that this will be the tiebreaker; this is basically a home-field pick.

Nebraska at Oklahoma State
Gamm says... A very interesting game in the Big 12. Nebraska got spanked last week. Okie State is hot but has not played anyone of note. In Stillwater, with a chance to prove themselves, the Cowpokes come up short... Corn 27 - Cow 23

2010-10-14T14:25:00.010-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Seven
Hard to believe but we're at the half way point of college football and entering a critical stretch in the Big Ten race. This week sees one big time matchup and a couple of others that have major bearing on the title chase. Toss in a good battle between Texas and Nebraska and we have a good week to pick in...

Arkansas State at Indiana
Gamm says ... As Homer would say, "Boring." Yes it gets Indiana a bit closer to a potential bowl bid but please, enough of these cupcakes Big Ten. IU 38 - Ark State 13

Phats says ... I figured the Hoosier D would be exposed big time in Columbus. I don't know anything about Arkansas State except their 2-4. IU Should win but it will be closer than people think. INDIANA 31 Arkansas State 17

Illinois at Michigan State
Gamm says ... A classic trap game for MSU. Except under Coach D, MSU is 3-0 the week after playing and beating Michigan. This isn't your father's Spartans team. This team has handled adversity well. Now, can it handle expectations? Illinois has State's full attention after dismantling Penn State. The MSU offense outmatches the Illini D and Illinois can't get enough ground game going to get the W. Michigan State 31 - Illinois 21.

Phats says ... Great win for the Illini at Happy Valley, but PSU is not MSU. The spartans are playing really well and will continue that play by dominating Illinois at home. Michigan State 35 illinois 10

Minnesota at Purdue
Gamm says ... Minnesota is trying to salvage some dignity. Purdue is trying to prove all the nay sayers wrong. Is this the ciao Brewster tour? Can Purdue really scrape together a bowl game with the losses it has suffered? A 2-0 start in conference play will help! Purdue 20 - Minnesota 17

Phats says ... Oh thank you Boilermakers for making my weekend pretty awesome. I never pick against my Boilers and it paid off this time. As for this week Purdue will keep it rolling with a nice homecoming win over a struggling Gopher team. Boiler Up!. Purdue 28 minnesota 17

Iowa at Michigan
Gamm says ... Iowa can thank MSU for proving that a good front seven can slow down Mr. Robinson enough to beat Michigan. That said this will be a better game for a few reasons. The Iowa offense won't test Michigan's defense like MSU did but can move the ball. Look for Stanzi to put the ball in the air a lot but for a still balanced attack. Michigan won't make as many mistakes this week but still won't get it done against a team with a great defense. Iowa 24 - Michigan 21.

Phats says ... I never bought into the Michigan hype, and I am happy MSU exposed them. The Hawkeyes will send RichRod and the Wolverines on a 2 game losing streak. Iowa 41 michigan 10

Ohio State at Wisconsin
Gamm says ... I'm torn on this one. I think OSU is better than they are getting credit for (yes, I realize they are number one but many argue this is by default). Wisconsin is tough at home but aside from Minny and Austin Peay has yet to really lay the wood to a decent team. Special teams gaffes will rattle both teams in this one, but give me Pryor over Tolzien and a tight OSU win. Ohio State 23 - Wisconsin 20.

Phats says ... Boy is this a big one. Tough test for the new #1 Buckeyes, this will be a great game, and OSU will escape thank to a late field goal . Ohio State 24 wisconsin 21

Texas at Nebraska
Gamm says ... Despite the recent swoon by the Longhorns, this will be a classic. The Texas defense isn't the problem and should find a way to slow T-Mart. However, the Cornshuckers have a good D too and that is where this game will be won. Nebraska 26 - Texas 16

Phats says ... Man the horns are really struggling this year, and Nebraska has looked really good. Nebraska is a rare easy win over the horns.
Nebraska 31 texas 14

2010-10-11T14:56:00.003-04:00

Week Six Recap...
It was a very interesting weekend in the Big Ten. Michigan State thoroughly dominated Michigan and put aside any doubts about whether the defense could contain the dangerous Denard Robinson. Ohio State thrashed Indiana, leaving Hoosiers fans wondering if they will see another win this season. Wisconsin pounded rival Minnesota and ruffled feathers in the process. Coach Brewster was borderline John L. Smith after that late two-point conversion (think self-slap after the Illinois loss). Illinois went to Happy Valley and stomped on Penn State for the program's first win at Beaver Stadium. And last but not least, Purdue stole one from Northwestern, who undoubtedly felt as thought the first 6-0 start since 1962 was all but theirs.

What did we learn? Ohio State is firmly joined by Michigan State and Iowa as the main contenders, with Wisconsin very much in the mix (this weekend will say for sure). Michigan won't contend for the title, but still is good enough to get seven or eight wins. Illinois is improving. Northwestern was a precarious 5-0 and finally lost a close one, but is still an eight win team. Penn State isn't good. Purdue will fight until the bitter end. And Indiana might not win again in league play, not with that defense anyway! And Nebraska is good and will be joining the Big Ten on a program uptick for sure.

Team of the Week... It would be easy to give it to Michigan State, but that would mean I looked past Illinois. The Illini showed that maybe the effort against OSU wasn't luck, but a sign that things are improving. It doesn't get any easier with a trip to East Lansing forthcoming, but Illinois fans have to feel pretty good right now.

Player of the Week... Terrelle Pryor was fantastic in dismantling the Indiana defense. It was one of the best passing performances of his career and a big step for the Buckeyes who are seeking the ultimate in balance going forward. Special nod to Kirk Cousins for what might have been his best game to date, not to mention Edwin Baker and Illinois signal caller Nathan Scheelhaase.

Get Gamm... Kudos for Phats for becoming the first repeat winner and the first to garner two Ws on the season. Sometimes it pays to go with the heart, eh Phats?

Get Gamm Week Seven... Two big games on the slate this weekend, with Iowa traveling to Michigan and Ohio State invading Madison. Should have some real clarity at the top after this week.

Arkansas State at Indiana
Illinois at Michigan State
Minnesota at Purdue
Iowa at Michigan
Ohio State at Wisconsin (Tiebreaker)
Texas at Nebraska

2010-10-07T11:18:00.011-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Six
This is a HUGE week for me even if not for all of the Big Ten. Not a secret that I am an MSU grad and maybe the biggest Spartans fan around. But I do also try to be fair. And I will do the same this week.

The Michigan State - Michigan game this year is exactly what we in the state of Michigan pine for each year. The teams are unbeaten for the contest for only the second time since 1962 (State won 34-31 the last time - 1999). Michigan has the most exciting player in the game at QB. Michigan State has drawn national attention for the brilliant, gutsy fake field goal to beat Notre Dame and for the subsequent heart attack and then blood clot for head man Mark Dantonio. There is national attention here and as a Big Ten fan - I LOVE IT!

Phats is picking with me this week, and hoping Purdue gets back on track no doubt.

Nebraksa at Kansas State (Thursday)
Gamm says ... A battle of unbeatens for Thursday night football on ESPN. Manhattan has been a tough place to play for opponents as long as Bill Snyder has been at the helm for KSU. Nebraska has had some time to prep for this and should be ready. The Black Shirts win this one... NEB 23 - KSU 9

Phats says ... Excited for Nebraska to enter the Big Ten next year should add more excitement to the league. As for this game used to be a great one, K-State has fallen off a bit lately. Nebraska will pull it out. Nebraska 31 k-state 21

Illinois at Penn State
Gamm says... Illinois gave Ohio State a solid game last weekend and Penn State is where I had them pegged, even if the rest of the college football know-its had them doing wonderful things this season. Penn State can't stay this bad on offense all season and Illinois is no Iowa. The last three struggles get cast aside and the Nits get well on an improved but still not great Illini squad. PSU 27 - ILL 10

Phats says ... Illini played decent against the Buckeyes, but that was at home this is in Happy Valley. State rolls - Penn State 34 illinois 10

Indiana at Ohio State
Gamm says .... Hmmm, on paper, this seems like a no brainer. However, Indiana can move the ball so maybe not. Then again, Michigan has no defense so it was easy for IU to look like the best offense this side of Oregon. Ohio State isn't firing on all cylinders yet, but will get closer in this game. IU keeps it close for two quarters then the flood gates open. OSU 41 - IU 17

Phats says ... Let me be clear I am a Purdue fan, I hate IU just a fact of life. OSU's defense is not Michigan's they will stop the Hoosiers, and their offense will run all over the lifeless IU defense. Buckeyes stay in the National title hunt. Ohio State 42 indiana 7

Minnesota at Wisconsin
Gamm says ... The first of the battles for Bunyan. This one for his axe. Minnesota will be fired up but needs more than that. The Gophers are not very good and Wisconsin is ticked. The Badgers laid an egg in East Lansing and have a lot to prove before the schedule gets real tough. Look for UW to run all over the Gophers with both Clay and White going over 100 yards on the ground. UW 31 - UofM 13

Phats says ... I feel bad for the Gophers they have played well at times, and looked down right awful at times. Wisconsin won't lose two in a row, especially to Minnesota in Madison. Wisconsin 31 minnesota 10

Michigan State at Michigan
Gamm says ... If last week was big for Michigan State, this might be the biggest game for the green and white this century. MSU really has a chance to put a stranglehold on the current status of the rivalry. Michigan is looking to prove it is for real against at least a decent defense. MSU will not stop Robinson - no one will - but needs to slow him down, control the ball and limit mistakes. Emotions will be running high and I see MSU jumping out to a lead before halting a furious Michigan comeback. The Wolverines score late in the game to make it 38-33 and fail on the two-point conversion and thankfully for State fans who have witnessed way too many onside kicks bounce the other way, MSU covers and wins. Michigan State 38 - Michigan 33

Phats says ... Big game in the big ten, might find out a little about both teams. I was shocked at how bad UM's defense was vs IU, while MSU looked really good against the Badgers. I think State gets the win in the Big House shutting down Mr Robinson. Michigan State 28 michigan 17

Purdue at Northwestern
Gamm says ... Purdue has lost a bevy of critical players this year and the season is quickly washing away. Northwestern has a chance to get to 6-0 for the first time since 1962. The Wildcats have not been overly impressive but are finding ways to win. Purdue comes off a bye and should have some tricks up its sleeve. That won't be enough this week... NU 33 - PUR 20

Phats says ... So my Boilers lose our starting QB, RB, and WR to acl tears, now we hear Justin Siller is also out for who knows how long. I am convinced we're cursed. I thought about trying reverse psychology and taking Northwestern, but I can't pick against my Boilers. Plus if they pull the upset I have to figure i am the only one who will take us!. Offense surprises everyone scores late in the 4th to shock the Wildcats at home. Boiler Up! Purdue 28 northwestern 24

2010-10-04T11:44:00.003-04:00

Week 5 Recap...
After weeks of playing also-rans, mid majors and 1-AA (oops, sorry, FCS) scrimmages, we finally got to kick off the meaningful portion of the schedule. And week one of Big Ten play did not disappoint. In fact, it went almost according to my predictions, with the exception of Ohio State struggling and Penn State trudging in neutral much more than anticipated.

It sets us up for a great week two, headlined by the battle for Paul Bunyan - the trophy that is, not the axe (sorry Minnesota and Wisconsin). Paul is the theme for the weekend though, because not only do Michigan State and Michigan go to battled unbeaten and ranked for the first time since 1999, so do the Gophers and Badgers...

Team of the Week...
There were three teams that stood out for sure - Iowa, Michigan and Michigan State - but the Spartans were not expected to win and therefore get the nod here. MSU beat Wisconsin at its own game and despite a three turnover deficit, dominated this game. It sets the Spartans up for a classic in the rivalry with Michigan.

Player of the Week...
It is getting boring, giving this to Mr. Robinson each week, but the guy has been amazing. He made Indiana pay through the air and on the ground and hit several big plays in an entertaining Michigan win over Indiana. Kudos also to James White (UW), Keyshawn Martin (MSU) and Chris Clayborn (Iowa).

Get Gamm...
Four of us went unbeaten for the week, but Phats gets on the board by being closer to the spread in the game (he had MSU plus 7). Phats, send me your picks by Thursday morning with commentary on each of them.

Schedule
Nebraska at Kansas State (Thursday)
Illinois at Penn State
Indiana at Ohio State
Minnesota at Wisconsin
Michigan State at Michigan (Tiebreaker)
Purdue at Northwestern

2010-10-01T19:31:00.000-04:00

Get Gamm - Week 5
Trying something new this week, a last second blog from my phone! Busy week and almost forgot, can't do that!

Michigan at Indiana
Most years, this would get little love from the press. But Michigan had Denard Robinson and Indiana is hot for revenge for a game it felt it should have won a year ago. This is a classic first to 50 wins...the only thing missing is a mandatory five apple rush! Michigan can make a few more plays defensively and that's the difference. M 52 - IU 45

Ohio State at Illinois
This one should be no contest. Ohio State has it rolling right now and you know the special teams woes won't last forever. Pryor has another big day. OSU 38 - ILL 14

Northwestern at Minnesota
The Gophers are every bit as bad as I thought, and Northwestern might be a bit better. Goldie will be fired up and give a yet to be truly tested NU squad a run for its money. Northwestern prevails late. NU 31 - UM 27

Wisconsin at Michigan State
Talk about mirror images. All over the field, you could swap jerseys and not notice the difference. Both have power. Both can play with finesse. And both defenses will bend a fair amount. There is talk that this is an early elimination game. I don't know about that but do know a win here would be huge. The home team has won each of the last five and they've been some classics. I picked MSU to lose this in preseason, but with Coach D coming back and the game at home, I'll swap... MSU 27 - Wisconsin 24

Penn State at Iowa
I love this game most years but I am not one who is sold on Penn State enough to buy the hype. Iowa is as advertised and Kinnick will rock the black and gold big time. This will be low scoring and smashmouth, with Iowa grinding out a nice win to start a tough stretch. Iowa 16 - Penn State 13

2010-09-27T14:32:00.002-04:00

Week 4 Recap...
It was all in all a boring weekend around the Big Ten. The good got better, the bad got worse and the jury is still out on Penn State, a team everyone but me seemed to be really high on heading into the season, despite some notable personnel losses.

There were two upsets for the MAC (Toledo and Northern Illinois) and CMU gave the Wildcats a run as well. This week is when we really start to get a sense for who will contend, pretend and flat out roll over.

Team of the Week... Really not sure where to go here. Could be Wisconsin for racking up 70. Or Michigan with 65. I guess I'll go with OSU who really got it going and scored 73 points while getting Terrelle Pryor involved with the "cycle" of TDs (passing, rushing, receiving).

Player of the Week... See the note on Pryor. Those are nice games for postseason trophy contention for sure... though there were other great ones as well: Greg Jones and James White come to mind.

Get Gamm... Only two of us picked NIU to upset Minnesota and I was closer on the tiebreaker to hold off Phats for the win this week.

Week Five Slate... Finally, some games with meaning. I cannot wait until the Big Tenwelve adopts a nine game conference slate. The FCS games have got to go.

Ohio State at Illinois
Northwestern at Minnesota
Michigan at Indiana
Wisconsin at Michigan State (TIEBREAKER)
Penn State at Iowa

2010-09-23T12:29:00.005-04:00

Get Gamm - Week 4
Sort of a boring week match-up wise. CMU at Northwestern and NIU at Minnesota are the most compelling. One thing is for sure, the MAC will be gunning for the Big Ten to gain a measure of respect...

Austin Peay at Wisconsin
Gamm says ... not even worth a blink. Bad news this week for the Badgers losing Borland. But that won't matter here. Let's go Peay. Not really, just wanted to say it... UW 37 - AP 9

Dan Meyer says ... Austin Peay 7 at WISCONSIN 38--I actually teach at the Peay (student chant--"Let's Go Peay"--seriously) and thought about picking the huge upset--for about two seconds. The Governors do have a quality return man in Terrance Holt; I predict that a third quarter KO run back accounts for the only points given up by the Badgers.

Ball State at Iowa
Gamm says ... Iowa's running game took a hit, but the Hawkeyes should be motivated after a tough loss at Arizona. Ball State gives a game for a half before Iowa pulls away. Iowa 30 - Ball State 13.

Dan Meyer says ... Ball State 10 at IOWA 30--No "shocking the world" this week (reference to a now-banned poster for newer predictors).

Bowling Green at Michigan
Gamm says ... BGSU is down its starting QB otherwise this could be very interesting. Michigan will play better D this time but it still won't be a blow out. M 40 - BGSU 27

Dan Meyer says ... Bowling Green 6 at MICHIGAN 31--UMass got the Wolverines' attention; thus even Urban Meyer (who coached the Falcons about a decade ago) would be hard pressed to pull the MAC upset this week.

Central Michigan at Northwestern
Gamm says ... One of the games of the week. CMU is not as good as next year, or I'd be all over the upset. NU gets to 4-0 in an entertaining game. NU 45 - CMU 38

Dan Meyer says ... Central Michigan 14 at NORTHWESTERN 27--Would give the Chippewas more of a chance if Dan LeFeveor was still QB.

Northern Colorado at Michigan State
Gamm says ... it will be interesting to see if MSU starts slow off the incredible win and Coach D's absence or if the Spartans are inspired and roll. I tend to lean to the latter. MSU 51 - NC 14

Dan Meyer says ... Northern Colorado 6 at MICHIGAN STATE 45--I realize that Spartan fans need a week to recuperate after last week's heroics, but N. Colorado? Seriously??

Toledo at Purdue
Gamm says ... I didn't call this one out in particular above, but see this as a possible great game as well. Purdue is struggling to find itself on O. Toledo is playing decent D. Purdue ekes out a win. PU 24 - UT 20

Dan Meyer says ... Toledo 13 at PURDUE 19--Toledo has played very good defense the last two weeks. I cannot and will not pick the upset--but this one could give Boiler fans heartburn well into the fourth quarter.

Eastern Michigan at Ohio State
Gamm says ... The only interesting thing about OSU's second straight match-up is whether the EMU Eagle has pre-plotted an attack on Brutus. Maybe this game the Buckeyes won't give up a special teams home run. OSU 38 - EMU 6

Dan Meyer says ... Eastern Michigan 10 at OHIO STATE 35--Tressel brings subs in during third quarter; if not earlier.

Temple at Penn State
Gamm says ... don't sleep on this one. Temple is 3-0 and would love the pub of beating the state's juggernaut. This will be a nail bitter but Royster finally breaks loose and PSU wins. PSU 31 - Temple 21.

Dan Meyer says ... Temple 14 at PENN STATE 24--These are NOT the Owls that Wisconsin used to beat 65-0, but JoePa and company are still too good for Temple at home.

Akron at Indiana
Gamm says ... Indiana has to be careful not to look forward to the Michigan game here. The Hoosiers have a great offense but weren't world beaters at Western Kentucky last weekend. The Hoosiers pull away late... IU 33 - Akron 17

Dan Meyer says ... Akron 17 at INDIANA 21--A reasonable upset pick, but I think that the Hoosiers prevail for at least one more week.

Northern Illinois at Minnesota
Gamm says ... Which Minnesota will show up? NIU nearly nipped Illinois last weekend and has a real shot at this one too. I think the Gophers are in such disarray that they get picked off again. NIU 24 - Minnesota 23

Dan Meyer says ... Northern Illinois 13 at MINNESOTA 14--A bit dangerous picking the team that arguably knocked Purdue out of a bowl last year to lose to the Gophers--but where else (except MAYBE IU or Illinois) will Minnesota win a game the rest of the year?

South Dakota State at Nebraska
Gamm says ... plain and simple, a very good Cornhusker team rolls. Big Ren 56 - SDSU 10

Dan Meyer says ... South Dakota State 6 at NEBRASKA 41--Even a Cornhusker letdown won't allow this one to be close.

2010-09-20T14:46:00.002-04:00

Week Three Recap
I'll apologize now if this paints me as the MSU homer that I am, but come on, have you EVER seen such a ballsy call to end the game? Wow. I was lucky enough to be there and have a bird's eye view of it all. I'm still hoarse today and still shocked that not an hour later, Coach Dantonio was rushed to the hospital with what turned out to be a mild heart attack. I'm not the only one talking about the play... it is all over the news. I just wish I had heard what old sufferin' sucotash Lou Holtz had to say about it...

Team of the Week: Michigan State. No question. They played the best game of the week, which had the best play of the week and the most meaning of the week. No disrespect to the rest of college football intended.

Player of the Week: There were some great weeks had by some key players, but I'll go out on a limb and give it to a special teamer. Aaron Bates averaged over 45 yards per punt, even with some pooch kicks and a shank or two. Oh and he also threw one of the most memorable touchdown passes in Michigan State football history.

Get Gamm: Congratulations to Dan Meyer for a solid 10-1 week and nailing the point differential on the tiebreaker game. Dan, you're an old regular and you know the drill!

Week Four Slate: Can't wait... one week until we open conference play... in the meantime, MAC v. B10 week II (7 games!).

Austin Peay at Wisconsin
Ball State at Iowa
Bowling Green at Michigan
Central Michigan at Northwestern
Northern Colorado at Michigan State
Toledo at Purdue
Eastern Michigan at Ohio State
Temple at Penn State
Akron at Indiana
Northern Illinois at Minnesota
South Dakota State at Nebraska

2010-09-17T08:51:00.008-04:00

Week Three - Get Gamm
Hard to believe we are already one quarter into the season! Just two weeks from conference play. Speaking of which, I really need to include future Big Ten member Nebraska in these contests, so starting next week, I will include the Cornhuskers.

This week, mayo is picking with me. Some good games on the slate, including a few reunions of sort...

Ball State at Purdue
Gamm says ... Purdue is going to miss Keith Smith but starts to find his replacement... Purdue 31 - Ball State 13.

mayo170 says ... Purdue 27 - Ball State 16

Kent State at Penn State
Gamm says ... Penn State needs to get Evan Royster going and bounce back from the 'bama loss. Nittany Lions 34 - Golden Flashes 6

mayo170 says ... Penn State 37 - Kent State 3

UMass at Michigan
Gamm says ... Michigan won't ever lose to an FCS foe again. Wolverines 41 - Minutemen 10.

mayo170 says ... Michigan 41 - UMass 16

Northern Illinois at Illinois
Gamm says ... Northern Illinois is a good MAC team. Good enough to pick off a lower tier Big Ten team. The Illini have never lost to a directional Illinois school, but I think they are the fodder for the week. NIU 27 - Illinois 24.

mayo170 says ... Northern Illinois 23 at Illinois 28. Illinois on the second leg of their directional Illinois school tour for 2010. NIU is usually a solid MAC team and I think they will give the Illini a tough go of it. After seeing two weeks of the Fighting Zookers, I think his goose is cooked and it wouldn't surprise me to see NIU beat them.

Ohio at Ohio State
Gamm says ... Ohio State needs work on finishing in the red zone and gets it done against a decent Bobcats squad. OSU 38 - Ohio 3

mayo170 says ... Ohio State 44 - Ohio U 9

Arizona State at Wisconsin
Gamm says ... Wisconsin has been mighty vanilla thus far. ASU isn't a top tier Pac Ten team but these games always have a Rose Bowl air to them in terms of bragging rights. ASU's QB, Michigan transfer Steven Threet, played well in Madtown as a Wolverine, but not this time. UW 30 - ASU 14.

mayo170 says ... Arizona State 27 at Wisconsin 19. So far ASU has bludgeoned their opponents with stifling defense and a former UM QB whose biggest win was against the Badgers. The Badgers meanwhile don't appear to be the same team that I was expecting. They will get better as the season goes on, but I'm going with ASU on a gut feeling.

USC at Minnesota
Gamm says ... You do the math. Juggernaut USC vs. the team that barely beat Middle Tennessee State and lost to FCS's South Dakota. USC rolls 41 - 17

may170 says ... USC 34 at Minnesota 10. Southern Cal dominates a Big Ten team yet again. Brew's Crew is looking dreadful right now and needs some serious help. Although USC isn't the brute force that previously has manhandled the best that the Big Ten could throw at them, Minnesota is going to be lucky to be within two scores midway through the second quarter.

Indiana at Western Kentucky
Gamm says ... Interesting road trip for IU. 16 days of rust to shake off but this IU offense is good. It'll be closer than you'd think though. Indiana 33 - Team with the bid reg blob for a mascot 27

mayo170 says ... Indiana 38 - Western Kentucky 16

Northwestern at Rice
Gamm says ... NU has been pretty sound early but Rice is not a pushover. The Wildcats tend to lose to one team a year that they have no business losing to. But that won't quite happen this week. NU 35 - Rice-a-roni 23

mayo170 says ... Northwestern 32 - Rice 13

Notre Dame at Michigan State (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says ... Night game always bring about major anticipation. This is MSU's 9th ever, and a handful have been with the Irish. This has a 1998 feel to it, with injured FB John Rouse filling the fourth captain spot - a la Amp Campbell in 1998. Kirk Cousins has payback in mind and Notre Dame hasn't quite found its rhythm yet, despite some solid talent. MSU goes from ho-hum, to ahem - look at me. Michigan State 31 - Notre Dame 23.

mayo170 says ... Notre Dame 27 at Michigan State 31(Tiebreaker). This is going to be a great game. MSU should be able to contain the pass game better than Michigan and I like that MSU will be able to throw up to three running backs at them. The big question is whether the Spartans can at least cut their penalties in half. Even if Notre Dame has a lead late, I like Cousins' ability to keep a cool head and get the ball to his receivers.

Iowa at Arizona
Gamm says ... a nice early test for both teams. Iowa has the defense and balanced offense to get out of Dodge with a win. But former Spartans QB Nick Foles wants to show the Big Ten what they've been missing. Home field plays a major factor here, but in the end, Iowa's D makes the diff. Iowa 23 - Arizona 21.

mayo170 says ... Iowa 13 at Arizona 10. Both teams are flying under the radar right now, and winning with killer defense. Iowa has had tougher competition that didn't
have to travel cross-country to play them. I like Ferentz to take the Hawkeyes out west and pull out a win.

2010-09-13T11:20:00.003-04:00

Week Two Recap
It was another crazy week on the college football scene. Move over Appalachian State - James Madison has taken out a ranked foe now too. For that matter, even though Minnesota doesn't hold Michigan's stature, to lose to FCS meddler South Dakota? Ouch. Talk about program set back. Michigan rode the roller coaster of emotion and the loose-laced look of Denard Robinson to a nice victory. OSU was dominant and PSU was dominated. The rest was as to be expected.

Team of the Week: Michigan would be the easy choice, but I'm all about looking deeper. Iowa was dominating in the way it dismantled rival Iowa State. And folks, the Cyclones have tripped up good Iowa teams before. Iowa can really show us how they are after a nice road trip to Arizona this weekend...

Player of the Week: There is one obvious choice here, although there were some sound performances by Edwin Baker (MSU), Adam Robinson (Iowa) and Nathan Scheelhaase (Illinois). Denard Robinson is re-writing Michigan record books on a weekly basis so far. He was an absolute beast at ND and will pad his stats in the next few weeks.

Get Gamm: Congratulations to mayo170 for besting the pack with a 9-1 record. No one picked South Dakota's upset, but mayo rode his solo pick of Michigan to the win. Mayo, you know the drill... (games in bold require commentary)

Week Three Slate: It is MAC v Big Ten Saturday, with four match-ups this week.

Ball State at Purdue
Kent State at Penn State
UMass at Michigan
Northern Illinois at Illinois
Ohio at Ohio State
Arizona State at Wisconsin
USC at Minnesota
Indiana at Western Kentucky
Northwestern at Rice
Notre Dame at Michigan State (Tiebreaker)
Iowa at Arizona

2010-09-09T14:11:00.006-04:00

Get Gamm - Week Two
We're off and running in another season of Get Gamm. Last week had plenty of easy picks, this week gets a lot tougher. There are ample great games on the slate, with some classic title game rematches and an old rivalry tilt. TwinCityBuckeye is picking with me this week and is the early leader for Rookie of the Year... wait, he's the only rookie!

Indiana has the dreaded early season bye week, though it could be argued that those blessed with facing the directional Illinois schools do as well...

Illinois State at Northwestern
Gamm says ... Brock Spack (former PU DC) knows the drill with the Wildcats and has a former Spartan in his backfield (Ashton Leggett). But I like Northwestern to win handily, despite the lack of a solid ground attack. NU 34 - ISU 13

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Northwestern 41 - Illinois State 17

Michigan State at Florida Atlantic (in Detroit)
Gamm says ... An away game with FAU that takes place in Detroit. What, is the Boca airport out of service? Some think this will be close because FAU played UAB tough last week. This is MSU's first game in Motown in decades. State gets more consistency through the air and dominates on the ground again. MSU 38 - FAU 14

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Michigan State 34 - Florida Atlantic 13

San Jose State at Wisconsin
Gamm says ... Yawn. Wisconsin rolls in its first of two battles with Spartans this season. UW 45 - SJS 10

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Wisconsin 45 - San Jose State 3

South Dakota at Minnesota
Gamm says ... Good thing this isn't North or South Dakota STATE as both have given the Gophers fits over the last few seasons. Minnesota controls the ball for nearly two-thirds of the game and dominates. Minny 31 - SD 6

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Minnesota 30 - South Dakota 9

Western Illinois at Purdue
Gamm says ... No lo contendere. Purdue gets the offense rolling. PU 40 - WIU 9

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Purdue 42 - Western Illinois 14

Michigan at Notre Dame
Gamm says ... We start to get a sense for whether either of these teams is for real. Michigan's depleted secondary bites them in a game that will be full of fireworks. ND 33 - Michigan 31

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Both teams won important openers but for different reasons. RichRod is on the hot seat and a loss to UConn would have been disastrous. Kelly is starting a new era at ND and needed a successful debut. So, what happens this week? I believe these teams are similar in talent Since this game is in South Bend, I'll go with the Fighting Irish. Notre Dame 27 - Michigan 21

Iowa State at Iowa
Gamm says ... Never underestimated a rival. The Cyclones have bitten Iowa aplenty over the years and will be a solid underdog in this one. Iowa gets its backfield depth bolstered and while it stays close early, the Hawkeyes ride the home crowd to a nice win. Iowa 24 - Iowa State 13

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Iowa State at Iowa: 2 programs going in opposite directions. ISU might hang around for awhile on emotion alone but will not be able to sustain for an entire game. Plus, Iowa is on a mission. Iowa 31 - Iowa State 12

Miami-FLA at Ohio State
Gamm says ... The old thugs of Miami are claiming this is revenge for a title game that happened almost a decade ago already. Whatever. Miami plays in the weak ACC and doesn't have near the power that the Buckeyes do. Frankly, I hope Ohio State wins by 50. OSU 30 - Miami 16.

TwinCityBuckeye says ... The Hurricanes think they are playing for some sort of "revenge". Buckeyes are playing for national respect. What matters is who has the better talent. Answer: Ohio State. Ohio State 34 - Miami 19

Penn State at Alabama
Gamm says ... The game of the week and our tiebreaker. Penn State might be catching 'Bama at the right time - sans Ingram - but the Nittany Lions are starting a true freshman, on the road a week after an overall less than stellar performance against FCS foe Youngstown State. I like this to be close for most of the game, but for the Tide to pull away late. Bama 27 - PSU 17

TwinCityBuckeye says ... The defending national champs lost alot of talent. They also will be without their Heisman winning tailback. The problem for JoePa however is that he is starting a true freshman QB, on the road, at night. Yikes! Look for the Tide to roll. Alabama 28 - Penn State 10

Southern Illinois at Illinois
Gamm says ... Boring. Illinois 30 - SIU 6

TwinCityBuckeye says ... Illinois 38 - Southern Illinois 7

2010-09-07T13:23:00.003-04:00

Week One Recap
I don't know about the rest of you, but while I don't want summer to end, I have to admit it was great to be back in and around college football this past weekend. We even had very fall-like weather here in Michigan, with temps in the low 60s, a heavy gray overcast sky and whipping winds.

As time permits, I will try to get out a look back at the last week with some team and individual thoughts. I will also use this early week post to congratulate our last week's Get Gamm winner and post the games for the upcoming weekend.

Team of the Week: A lot of teams fared well this weekend, but the early nod has to go to Michigan. The Wolverines had a ton of doubters with a decent UConn team coming in and started off strong. Dernard Robinson was a do-it-all factor (like Tate Forcier was last season). We'll know a lot more about Michigan in the coming weeks, but for week one, the Wolverines were the best of the best.

Player of the Week: A bunch of players in the mix here, from the tailback tandem of Baker and Bell at MSU, to freshman sensation Robert Bolden at Penn State, Dan Persa from Northwestern, tailback Duane Bennett of Minnesota, and savvy vets like Terrelle Pryor and John Clay. But none was as impressive as Dernard Robinson, who accounted for 383 yards and set a school record for rushing yards by a quarterback.

Get Gamm: Hat's off to rookie picker twincitybuckeye for nailing the slate and getting closest to on the tiebreaker. TCB, the drill is as follows: I bold the games for this week below that you get to write commentary to. Send me your comments and picks for the other games by Thursday afternoon so I can post here with my picks.

Week Two Slate:
Illinois State at Northwestern
Michigan State at Florida Atlantic (in Detroit)
San Jose State at Wisconsin
South Dakota at Minnesota
Western Illinois at Purdue
Michigan at Notre Dame
Iowa State at Iowa
Miami-FLA at Ohio State
Penn State at Alabama
Southern Illinois at Illinois

2010-08-30T08:42:00.005-04:00

Get Gamm 2011 is here!
Sadly, the wonderful heat and sunshine of summer is giving way to thoughts of fall. Don't get me wrong, I love college football, but I'm just not ready to trade shorts and a golf shirt for jeans and a sweatshirt.

But as they say, life moves on and football is upon us! A full slate this week, including three Thursday games so get those picks in and see if you can best me this season...

Thursday
Towson at Indiana - Wow. What an inspiring start to the college football season. Yawn. This looks more like the 3 v. 14 game in the opening round of March Madness! Indiana rolls 41 - 14.

Minnesota at Middle Tennessee State - I give the Gophers some credit here. This isn't as slam dunk easy as it appears. Still, the maroon and gold have plenty to prove and they start with a close win in middle Tennessee... 31 - 23.

Marshall at Ohio State - Best of the three but still not a great match-up. Tune up for the Miami game. OSU rolls... 30 - 6.

Saturday
Illinois vs. Missouri - Both teams have turmoil in the form of injury or arrest... Illinois has a season, maybe less, to save Ron Zook's neck. Too many questions for the Illini get this season started off on the wrong foot - again. Mizzou wins 27 - 24.

Eastern Illinois at Iowa - Yawn. Unless the Hawkeyes eat a bunch of tainted eggs before hand... Iowa romps 42 - 10.

Connecticut at Michigan - Michigan started hot in 2009 but UConn is no slouch. The Huskies fly under the radar as a hoops school but can win this game. I'm convinced we'll see three UM QBs and the same questionable defense. UConn wins and sets the Fire RichRod chants into early motion. 34 - 31.

Western Michigan at Michigan State - Western was a much better team last year and State mauled them. It happens again. MSU 45 - 17

Northwestern at Vanderbilt - An intriguing match-up of the smart schools. Vandy lost its coach out of the blue, Northwestern re-tools but is sound. NU squeaks by 23 - 21.

Youngstown State at Penn State - No comment. Penn State in a laugher 49 - 7

Purdue at Notre Dame (Tiebreaker) - New QB (Purdue) vs New Coach (ND). This game will tell us if Brian Kelly can work the same immediate magic that his predecessors all did. Notre Dame gets it done 24 - 20

Wisconsin at UNLV - Unless Clay and Co. get stuck in a casino or busted hanging with Paris Hilton and her drug filled purse, the Badgers should be able get this done without much hand-wringing... 33 - 17

2010-08-27T15:44:00.005-04:00

Big Ten Football Previews – 2010 (continued)

Editor's Note: Here are the remaining previews ... Get Gamm starts next week!

*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.

Team: Wisconsin Badgers

Tidbits … Wisconsin has yet another big time back in the Heisman race in John Clay. And after a great start and a mediocre middle, Coach Bielema has re-discovered his recipe for success, going 10-3 in 2009 and laying the foundation for what many believe will be a big 2010.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs
2008 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-2nd), Alamo / 7-6, 3-5 (T-6th), Champs
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 9-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 12-1, 7-1 (T-2nd), Capital One
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 10-3, 5-3 (T-3rd), Capital One
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 9-3, 6-2 (3rd), Outback
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-7th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th) / 8-6, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (4th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-8th)

Returning Starters: 10 offense, 6 defense, 2 kickers

Key Returnees: QB Scott Tolzien, RB John Clay, WR Nick Toon, DE J.J. Watt, LB Culmer St. Jean, K Phillip Welch

Key Losses: TE Garrett Graham, DE O'Brien Schofield, LB Jaevery McFadden, S Chris Maragos

Prediction ... I'm a traditionalist in the sense that I like a Big Ten offense that can pound you but also make you pay with a great pass call at the right time. I'm not a fan of the spread, the spread option or an all run or all pass offense... which is why I like Wisconsin this year. This might be the best top to bottom attack the Badgers have ever had. A weapon like Clay, a solid, heady QB, some great receivers. The question is the defense. The Badgers usually have at least a sound defense but if the D can match the O, look out Big Ten. The kicking game is sound and the schedule isn't scary - except the back to back OSU and Iowa games. UW heads back to Orlando again, but not for the Champs Bowl this time...

OOC: 4-0 (Yawn. Big yawn - unless the Badgers' bus gets stuck at a casino in week one!)
B10: 6-2 (Plenty of tough games but October 16 and 23 are the difference between the Capital One or Rose Bowl)
Overall: 10-2, 3rd in the conference, Capital One Bowl

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Iowa Hawkeyes

Tidbits ... Iowa is a lot like Michigan State in that it flies highest when off the radar - see 2006 as an example of hype and fizzle. That said, the 21st century trend is three year cycles of greatness... this would be year three in a current cycle (11, 10 and 10 wins from 02-04; 9 and 11 wins the past two seasons)

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-4th) Capital One/ 11-2, 6-2 (T-2nd), Orange
2008 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 2-6 (T-9th) / 9-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback
2007 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs / 6-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2006 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 6-7, 2-6 (T-8th), Alamo
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Outback
2004 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (3rd), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Capital One
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 11-2, 8-0 (T-1st)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 2-6 (T-10th) / 7-5, 4-4 (T-4th)

Returning Starters: 6 offense, 8 defense, 2 kickers

Key Returnees: QB Ricky Stanzi, WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, RB Adam Robinson, DE Adrian Clayborn, DB Tyler Sash

Key Losses: TE Tony Moeaki, LB A.J. Edds, LB Pat Angerer, DB Amari Spievey

Prediction ... I love Iowa's schedule. Penn State, Ohio State, Wisconsin and Michigan State all come to Iowa City. Michigan is down. Arizona is the only real tough OOC slate. The offense will be good. The defense is always great. Iowa won a bunch of close games last year and with what returns, that means the Hawkeyes know how to win even more so than most opponents. The offense will be sound if not exciting and the defense will keep them in every game. Returning both kickers is also a boon.

OOC: 3-1 (Arizona stings Iowa in the desert)
B10: 7-1 (OSU nips Iowa again)
Overall: 10-2, 2nd in the conference, Rose Bowl

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Ohio State Buckeyes

Tidbits: The Buckeyes have only failed to win double digit games twice since I started prognosticating the Big Ten. The scarlet and gray have won five-straight Big Ten titles, absolutely owned Michigan and are poised to make another run at the BCS Title. Fear the sweater vest!

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS Bowl / 11-2, 7-1 (1st) - Rose
2008 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 8-0 (1st) - BCS Title Game / 10-3, 7-1 (T-1st) - Fiesta Bowl
2007 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (3rd) - Captial One / 11-2, 7-1 (1st), BCS Title Game
2006 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 12-1, 8-0 (1st), BCS Title Game
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Fiesta
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2003 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (1st) / 11-2, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 11-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 14-0, 8-0 (T-1st), National Champs
2001 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 7-5, 5-3 (3rd)

Returning Starters: 9 offense, 5 defense, 0 kickers

Key Returnees: QB Terrelle Pryor, RB Dan Herron, WR Dane Sanzenbacher, DL Cameron Heyward, LB Ross Homan, DB Chemdi Chekwa

Key Losses: DL Thaddeus Gibson, DL Doug Worthington, DB Kurt Coleman, P Aaron Pettrey

Prediction: It is awfully tough to pick against Ohio State, even with the Big Ten seemingly on the rise. Pryor enters year three and I think he still has plenty to prove as a signal caller and leader. Pay no mind to any personnel loses, OSU goes three deep everywhere. The defense will take some time to come around - four quarters anyway - and the kicking game is a possible question, but like I said, who bets against five-time defending champions?

OOC: 4-0 (Miami is the best test)
B10: 8-0 (Sixth straight title)
Overall: 12-0, 1st - BCS Title Game Berth

2010-08-17T12:11:00.013-04:00

Big Ten Football Previews – 2010 (continued)

Editor's Note: Here are the next set of previews ... the rest will follow as time allows.

*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.

Team: Penn State Nittany Lions

Tidbits: Penn State has had double digit wins 21 times in Joe Paterno's tenure. The 159 points allowed last year was the lowest since 1986, when the Nittany Lions won the National Title.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 11-2, 6-2 (T-2nd), Capital One
2008 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-2nd), BCS Berth / 11-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose
2007 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback / 9-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2006 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Capital One / 9-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback
2005 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Music City / 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Orange
2004 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Music City / 4-7, 2-6 (9th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 9-4, 5-3 (4th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)

Returning Starters: 7 offense, 5 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: RB Evan Royster, C Stefen Wisniewski, WR Derek Moye, WR Graham Zug, S Nick Sukay

Key Losses: QB Daryll Clark, TE Andrew Quarless, DT Jared Odrick, LB Sean Lee, LB Navorro Bowman

Prediction: Penn State will be an interesting team to watch in 2010. There is one "money" OOC tilt (at Alabama) and tough revenge trips to Iowa and Ohio State on tap. Evan Royster is the top tailback in the league, the wide receiving corps is dangerous and the interior of the line is sound. But the Nittany Lions must break in a new signal caller and a pair of tackles. Never underestimate the loss of a veteran quarterback. Defensively, Penn State loses even more starters including the entire linebacking corps. Now this is Linebacker U so expect guys like Chris Colasanti to step right up, but the talent losses might be too much for this team to perform as predicted by so many. I think Penn State takes a step back in 2010 in preparation for a fantastic 2012 - which I predict will be Paterno's last in Happy Valley...

OOC: 3-1 (The trip to Alabama could make or break the season, and don't sleep on Temple)
B10: 5-3 (Revenge will not be found in Iowa City or Columbus and Penn State finally loses at home against the Spartans)
Overall: 8-4, T-4th, Gator Bowl Berth

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Michigan State Spartans

Tidbits ... The Spartans' recent bowl streak is the first three season run since Nick Saban took over in the mid 90s. The last time the Spartans missed the mark on a solid preseason Big Ten ranking and lost as many games in the waning moments was 1998 - the year before once of the best seasons in program history.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (3rd), Outback / 6-7, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo
2008 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-2nd), Outback / 9-4, 6-2 (3rd), Capital One
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Champs
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (5th), Champs / 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Sun / 5-6, 2-6 (9th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 8-5, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 7-5, 3-5 (T-8th)

Returning Starters: 7 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: QB Kirk Cousins, RB Larry Caper, WR Keshawn Martin, LG Joel Foreman, LB Greg Jones, LB Eric Gordon, P Aaron Bates

Key Losses: C Joel Nitchman, WR Blair White, NT Oren Wilson, S Danny Fortener, PK Brett Swenson

Prediction ... Michigan State is back in the sleeper role and that is one that frankly, suits the Spartans just fine. A season ago, the QB position was unsettled. Not this time around. Kirk Cousins is the bona fide leader of the offense and the team and he has an offense loaded with weapons, including former QB Keith Nichol who has moved to wide receiver. The biggest question on offense is the front line. State needs to be able to run the ball better this season. Defensively, you'll be hard pressed to find a better corps of linebackers in the nation. And that includes two impact freshmen. The front line is solid but not spectacular. The secondary needs to tighten up and is quite young. Don't underestimate the loss of Brett Swenson. He was the best kicker in a long line of storied MSU booters. Still, the schedule sets up nicely for MSU to do some very nice things...

OOC: 4-0 (Nothing overly scary here)
B10: 5-3 (Wisconsin, Northwestern and Iowa prove to be the road blocks to a phenominal season)
Overall: 9-3, T-4th, Outback Bowl Berth

2010-08-06T09:39:00.004-04:00

Big Ten Football Previews – 2010 (continued)

Editor's Note: Here are the next set of previews ... the rest will follow as time allows.

*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.

Team: Purdue Boilermakers

Tidbits … The last time Purdue came off a 5-win season, the Boilermakers won 8 games and went bowling. This is the first time since 1995 and 1996 that the gold and black have put up consecutive losing seasons.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 2-10, 0-8 (11th) / 5-7, 4-4 (T-6th)
2008 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (6th), Insight / 4-8, 2-6 (T-9th)
2007 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th), Insight / 8-6, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Outback / 5-6, 3-5 (8th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback / 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 6-6, 4-4 (T-4th

Returning Starters: 6 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: WR Keith Smith, TE Kyle Adams, DE Ryan Kerrigan, DT Kawann Short, K Carson Wiggs,

Key Losses: QB Joey Elliott, FS Torri Williams, DT Mike Neal, CB Brandon King

Prediction ... Purdue is a team that many preseason magazines have squarely in the middle of the pack. I can't disagree, but there are some question marks with the running game (due to all of the spring injuries) and transfer Robert Marve has tremendous upside, but I've seen plenty of heralded transfers turn to duds. This is the first time I can remember that the Boilermakers open with Notre Dame. That will be a key game for both. Things ease up from there in the OOC but while Purdue avoids Iowa, the road gets much tougher when the Big Ten season calls. I like this team to be able to do better than I predict and certainly not any worse, but there are too many questions at this time for me to go any higher (the secondary comes to mind).

OOC: 4-0 (ND win pushes PU to a great start)
B10: 3-5 (wins over Minnesota, Illinois and Indiana)
Overall: 7-5, 7th in the conference, Texas Bowl bid

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Northwestern Wildcats

Tidbits … Northwestern is on a three-year run of seasons with a .500 or better record. That's the longest such run since the late 1920's / early 1930's. The 17 wins over the last two seasons is the best since NU won 19 games from 1995-96.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction/actual: 7-5, 3-5 (T-7th_ - At Large Bid / 8-5, 5-3 (T-4th) - Outback Bowl
2008 Prediction/actual: 6-6, 2-6 (T-9th) - At Large Bid / 9-4, 5-3 (T-4th) - Alamo Bowl
2007 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2005 Prediction/actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd) – Sun Bowl
2004 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 5-3 (4th)
2003 Prediction/actual: 3-9, 0-8 (11th) / 6-7, 4-4 (T-7th) – Motor City Bowl
2002 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-6th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction/actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)

Returning Starters: 8 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: QB Dan Persa, SB Drake Dunsmore, WR Sidney Stewart, FS Brian Peters, LB Quentin Davie, P/K Stefan Demos

Key Losses: QB Mike Kafka, DE Corey Wootton, FS Brad Phillips, SS Brendan Smith

Prediction ... Northwestern was a pleasant surprise last year, rattling off some surprise wins over ranked foes and playing in maybe the best bowl game of the season. There is a fair amount of turnover at key positions, but the return of the entire offensive front should allow for some solid plug and play at skill positions. The secondary could be sketchy, but the linebacking corps is solid and Stefan Demos is a great weapon as well. The OOC slate is pretty easy, though don't sleep on Central Michigan. I see overall improvement in the record from last year and for the Wildcats to take true advantage for not having to play Ohio State or Penn State.

OOC: 4-0 (no one here strikes fear into anyone!)
B10: 4-4 (wins over Purdue, Michigan State, Indiana and Illinois)
Overall: 8-4, 6th in the conference, Insight bowl berth

2010-07-28T13:27:00.027-04:00

Big Ten Football Previews – 2010

Editor's Note: So many things to do, so little time to do it. I know I've gone from writing novel-like predictions to shorter essays and this year - my tenth of providing preseason insights - I'm going Cliffs Notes on you. Here are previews for the bottom four... the others will follow as time allows.

Our annual prognostication contest will happen as always. In the meantime, digest, comment, disagree, etc. on my worst to first order and predictions. Football season is just a few weeks away!

*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.

Team: Minnesota Golden Gophers

Tidbits ... Minnesota was shut out twice last year, despite putting up more than 20 eight times and greater than 30 points four times.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (6th), At Large / 6-7, 3-5 (8th), Insight
2008 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 2-6 (T-9th) / 7-6, 3-5 (T-6th), Insight
2007 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 1-7 (T-10th) / 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2006 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 6-7, 3-5 (T-6th), Insight
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Motor City / 7-5, 4-4 (7th), Music City
2004 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (8th), Motor City / 7-5, 3-5 (8th), Music City
2003 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (5th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 2-6 (9th) / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)

Returning Starters: 9 offense, 2 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: QB Adam Weber, QB MarQueis Gray, RB Duane Bennett, WR Troy Stoudermire, K Eric Ellestad

Key Losses: WR Adam Decker, LB Lee Campbell, LB Nate Triplett, CB Marcus Sherels

Prediction ... Minnesota has a sneaky tough OOC slate, headlined by USC. The Golden Gophers are breaking in yet another offensive coordinator and unveiling their fourth offense in as many years. The good news is, nine starters return on that side of the ball. The ugly news is that only two return on the defensive side of the ball and one of those broke an ankle in the spring, while the other was suspended. Both should be back but Minnesota could trot out eleven new starters on defense this fall. Ouch. I see things starting hot - as usual - for this team, but for the natives to get restless as soon as mid-October hits and the plunge begins.

OOC: 3-1 (lone loss comes to USC at home)
B10: 1-7 (lone win over Northwestern)
Overall: 4-8, T-10th in the conference

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Indiana Hoosiers

Tidbits … Indiana's out of conference schedule consists of four teams who had a combined 9-38 record in 2009. Four-win Arkansas State had the most with four.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (10th) / 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2008 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City / 3-9, 1-7 (11th)
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight
2006 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-6th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (11th) / 4-7, 1-7 (10th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)

Returning Starters: 8 offense, 4 defense, 2 kickers

Key Returnees: QB Ben Chappell, RB Darius Willis, WR Tandon Doss, LB Tyler Replogle

Key Losses: LT Rodger Saffold, DE Greg Middleton, DE Jamie Kirlew, LB Will Patterson, CB Ray Fisher, S Nick Polk

Prediction ... The Hoosiers might have the biggest joke of a non-conference slate in the history of the conference! The trouble is, where will the other two requisite wins come from? Indiana returns a bevy of nice skill players on offense but must replace some key players from the front line. The defense is more or less a total rebuild, with some long-term mainstays moving on. I expect a torrid start, including a very rare win over Michigan, but after that, it'll be slim pickings en route to another losing season in Bloomington.

OOC: 4-0 (what, they couldn't schedule Bloomington High too?)
B10: 1-7 (lone win over Michigan)
Overall: 5-7, T-10th in the conference

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Illinois Fighting Illini

Tidbits ... Illinois continued the trend started in 2001 - a hard, five-year fall following a surprise BCS berth. If the trend continues, the Illini can expect three more tough seasons - and a brand new coaching staff.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Alamo / 3-9, 2-6 (9th)
2008 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-2nd), Capital One / 5-7, 3-5 (T-6th)
2007 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd) - Rose Bowl
2006 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 2-6 (8th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (10th) / 2-9, 0-8 (11th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 3-5 (T-7th) / 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-2, 7-1 (1st)

Returning Starters: 5 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers

Key Returnees: RB Mikel Leshoure, RB Jason Ford, DE Clay Nurse, DT Corey Liuget, LB Martez Wilson

Key Losses: QB Juice Williams, WR Arrelious Benn, S Garrett Edwards

Prediction ... Illinois, as you can see above, routinely gives me more fits than anyone when it comes to predicitons. Ron Zook overhauled his coaching staff in hopes of saving his hide, so we shall see if that comes to fruition. On paper, the offense doesn't invoke fear in anyone. The tailbacks are very good, but the passing game could be quite iffy. The defense will be solid with a good chunk of the front seven returning. Both specialists remain in tact as well. This is move it or lose it time for Zook. The schedule is not all that easy either, including the OOC...

OOC: 2-2 (wins over directional Illinois schools)
B10: 2-6 (wins over Indiana and Minnesota)
Overall: 4-8, T-8th in the conference

- - - - - - - - - -

Team: Michigan Wolverines

Tidbits … The last time Michigan had three straight losing seasons? NEVER! The last time the Wolverines lost three straight to in-state rival Michigan State? 1965-67 and shortly after a coach by the name of Bo Schembecler arrived on the scene.

Past Predictions/Results:
2009 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City / 5-7, 1-7 (T-10th), None
2008 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Champs / 3-9, 2-6 (T-9th), None
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd), Capital One
2006 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Outback / 11-2, 7-1 (T-2nd), Rose
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Alamo
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-3, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 10-3, 7-1 (1st)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 10-3, 6-2 (3rd)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 8-4, 6-2 (2nd)

Returning Starters: 10 offense, 8 defense, 0 kickers

Key Returnees: QB Tate Forcier, QB Denard Robinson, WR Ray Roundtree, C David Molk, LB Obi Ezeh, LB Jonas Moutan

Key Losses: RB Brandon Minor, RB Carlos Brown, WR Greg Mathews, DE Brandon Graham, P Zoltan Mesko

Prediction ... This is a make it or break it year for Rich Rodriguez. Michigan has had two-straight losing seasons and is in serious jeopardy of an unprecedented third-straight. A boat load of starters return on both sides of the ball but the team struggled to score as the season wore on and the defense was abysmal. The good news is, the depth on the offensive side is getting better and Michigan should be more consistent. The bad news is the defense could be worse. It is fast, but small and that just doesn't bode well in the Big Ten. Losing both kickers always hurts more than the casual fan might consider as well. There are no breaks with the schedule and not the gimmes out of conference that the maize and blue might need for bowl-type success...

OOC: 3-1 (at Notre Dame is the only loss, but don't sleep on UConn)
B10: 2-6 (wins over Illinois and Purdue)
Overall: 5-7, T-8th in the conference

2010-06-07T17:01:00.004-04:00

Catching up with the Big Televen
Well, it is amazing that even in the so-called off season, there really is plenty to cover in the world of the Big Ten on a nice, late spring day. It is far from high season for our beloved league, but the Michigan football program has released its findings, Big Ten expansion talk goes from white hot to volcanic and there are some other intriguing sports stories as well.

Wrong is wrong
Okay, so I've been listening - objectively, - to some of the arguments from Michigan fans that "everybody is doing it," "even Jim Tressel questioned the severity," and "this is much ado about nothing."

But I ask, is it? If everyone is doing it, why did Michigan get caught and why do they have to pay the piper in some way, shape or form? And since when do Michigan fans buy a thing hated Wolverine killer Jim Tressel has to say? And really - is it much ado about nothing? Isn't Michigan facing it's first major violations and penalties in footall in its esteemed history?

Where I come from, rules are rules. Growing up in a law enforcement house gives you that black and white level of perception. In my book, this is a major slap in the face of the pre-eminent football program in college football. For anyone, subway fans or distinguished alumni to shrug it off as something petty is a little disturbing.

There is a trend here. Michigan has had two straight losing seasons. The program is in trouble with the NCAA. All while Rich Rodriguez has been at the helm. I call a spade a spade and folks, I said all along that Michigan got its version of John L. Smith when Rich Rod came to town. Be careful what you wish for. The Wolverines face at least some penalties of note and may be looking another losing season straight in the eye...

Expansion is a matter of time
I can't even begin to keep up with all of the blogs, secret emails, false leaks and what ifs that are flying around with regard to conference expansion these days. I will say this - I love it. The Big Ten needs at least one, ideally three teams to again become the power conference in all of college sports.

The who, what, when, where and how part could be debated forever. Several schools have merit in the discussion. Notre Dame makes the most sense but won't move unless their hand is forced. The Texas trio is very intriguing. Missouri makes sense but, yawn... I like the prospects of adding Pitt but that doesn't expand the footprint or bring big bang.

Whatever is done, whoever is added and how ever many are added, my gut says the Big Ten will outshine the rest of the conferences and kick off an epic battle for overall conference supremacy...

Izzo isn't going to the Cavs
The hot topic de jour in Michigan is the so far unsubstantiated rumor that Izzo is being offered the Cleveland Cavaliers job. Michigan fans are praying, others in the Big Ten might be hoping but folks, Izzo leaving hurts the league as a whole.

MSU is loaded and will replace him - if he ever leaves - with someone hand picked by Izzo himself. Rooting for him to go because it helps your team isn't a good reason. He is the Dean of Big Ten coaches and gets the Big Ten in the Final Four - a lot. Besides, he won't go. Why would he? Sure, the NBA can throw even more money at him but who says LeBron stays? And even if he does, what pieces are in place around him to make the next step.

Tom Izzo is a college coach. It is very rare that the great ones in college have success in the NBA. NOt sure why, but it is what it is and it is why Izzo isn't going anywhere...

Perfect imperfection
I was one of those fans who flipped off Jim Joyce and swore in disbelief when he robbed the Tigers and Armando Galarraga of a perfect game last week. Shame on me. What ensued makes this even bigger than it would have been as a "mere" perfect game. We got a chance to see the goodness of humanity. The "own-up-manship" of Joyce. The forgiveness of Galarraga. The imploring of the Tigers franchise to give the guy a break. The outcome was wonderful and made me realize that sportsmanship isn't dead. Hat's off to the Tigers, Galarraga and most of all, Jim Joyce.

Football previews
A promotion at work might mean even less time than ever this summer, but I'm still hoping to preview this conference, team by team for something like this ninth year in a row. Stay tuned. Until then, fairways and greens!

2010-04-29T20:31:00.002-04:00

I'm still alive!

I can't believe I let another MSU run to the Final Four go without a few blog posts, but work and life has been an absolute zoo. AAU basketball tournaments had me on the road most of the winter, work has been crazy, and I need to find more time for the fam.

At this point, I am keeping this blog going but will have to evaluate whether or not I will have time for the football previews and keeping it up going forward.

I do love the small community of regulars and have a ton of thoughts on expansion, spring football, MSU now having hit six of twelve Final Fours (I was there, though I didn't get to the game - instead watched at Champs in downtown Indy) and more...

Hope you all are having a great spring, have a fantastic summer and are ready to watch the Big Ten explode!

Life is good... take care for now. I hope to be back in July with my usual football previews...

2010-03-11T12:47:00.005-05:00

Big Ten Tournament
I'll be in Indy this weekend... for my son's AAU tournament. Hoping to get to session three tomorrow night.

Iowa over Michigan
Northwestern over Indiana
Minnesota over Penn State

Wisconsin over Illinois
Ohio State over Iowa
Purdue over Northwestern
Michigan State over Minnesota

Ohio State over Wisconsin
Purdue over Michigan State

Ohio State over Purdue

2010-03-02T12:50:00.002-05:00

Last week of play...
Jammed up with work, AAU basketball trips... one of these days I'll provide more than picks!

Tuesday
Minnesota at Michigan
Illinois at Ohio State

Wednesday
Indiana at Purdue
Chicago State at Northwestern
Iowa at Wisconsin

Thursday
Penn State at Michigan State

Saturday
Northwestern at Indiana
Purdue at Penn State

Sunday
Wisconsin at Illinois
Michigan at Michigan State
Iowa at Minnesota

2010-02-23T16:24:00.002-05:00

Still time strapped!
Here we go. We have a three team race. And it is a huge week for Purdue and MSU.

Tuesday
Illinois at Michigan

Wednesday
Ohio State at Penn State
Purdue at Minnesota

Thursday
Iowa at Northwestern
Wisconsin at Indiana

Saturday
Michigan at Ohio State
Minnesota at Illinois

Sunday
Northwestern at Penn State
Michigan State at Purdue

2010-02-16T16:24:00.004-05:00

Another week of Get Gamm
The race is tighter than tight. Some major opportunities to be had this week with key contenders going head to head...

Michigan State at Indiana
Michigan at Iowa

Purdue at Ohio State
Penn State at Northwestern

Wisconsin at Minnesota

Illinois at Purdue
Penn State at Michigan
Indiana at Minnesota

Ohio State at Michigan State
Northwestern at Wisconsin

2010-02-09T09:40:00.001-05:00

Get Gamm Picks
Late again I know! Still haven't even graded last week's!

Tuesday
Illinois at Wisconsin
Purdue at Michigan State

Wednesday
Ohio State at Indiana
Northwestern at Iowa

Thursday
Michigan at Minnesota

Saturday
Michigan State at Penn State
Indiana at Wisconsin
Iowa at Purdue

Sunday
Ohio State at Illinois
Minnesota at Northwestern

2010-02-01T16:36:00.002-05:00

Get Gamm - Mid Season Review
Hope I might finally get some more time this week. The Big Ten is becoming a one horse race, but the league has hope since MSU travels to its two toughest venues this week - at Wisconsin and at Illinois. Both spotlight games on ESPN. Followed up with Purdue in East Lansing next Tuesday, it could be over or a race in a manner of eight days.

Congrats to Dan Meyer for nailing the picks last week. One of these days I'll have enough time to spotlight the winners!

2/2
Michigan at Northwestern
Michigan State at Wisconsin

2/3
Penn State at Ohio State
Illinois at Iowa

2/4
Purdue at Indiana

2/6
Minnesota at Penn State
Wisconsin at Michigan
Michigan State at Illinois

2/7
Iowa at Ohio State
Indiana at Northwestern

2010-01-26T09:04:00.004-05:00

Some much to talk about, so little time!
I still owe bowl recaps. I so want to chat Big Ten hoops. But heck, I hardly have enough time right now to get the Get Gamm contest up.

One of these days...

01/26/10
Michigan State @ Michigan
Northwestern @ Minnesota

01/27/10
Illinois @ Penn State
Ohio State @ Iowa

01/28/10
Wisconsin @ Purdue

01/30/10
Indiana @ Illinois
Iowa @ Michigan
Northwestern @ Michigan State

01/31/10
Penn State @ Purdue
Minnesota @ Ohio State

2010-01-18T16:32:00.002-05:00

Still swamped...
So many great things to blog about, so little time to do so. I apologize to the winners of late not getting your spotlight! Went from business in Cali to a weekend at Spiese in Ft. Wayne (a basketball junkie's paradise) and now am buried at work.

Here's this week's slate. Put up or shut up time for a few. Buckeye Nation won last week and that without riding the upset pick over Purdue. By the way BN, shame on me for leaving Turner off my All Big Ten team. He's the best player in the league. Bar none. Forgive me?!

01/19/10
Northwestern @ Ohio State
Purdue @ Illinois

01/20/10
Iowa @ Michigan State
Michigan @ Wisconsin

01/21/10
Indiana @ Penn State

01/23/10
Michigan State @ Minnesota
Ohio State @ West Virginia
Michigan @ Purdue
Illinois @ Northwestern

01/24/10
Penn State @ Wisconsin
Iowa @ Indiana

2010-01-12T01:18:00.002-05:00

Get Gamm - Week Three
Out in California for work this week, so this is late, and another short one. Haven't even graded last week yet!

01/12/10
Ohio State @ Purdue
Penn State @ Illinois

01/13/10
Minnesota @ Michigan State
Wisconsin @ Northwestern

01/14/10
Indiana @ Michigan

01/16/10
Penn State @ Iowa
Illinois @ Michigan State
Purdue @ Northwestern
Wisconsin @ Ohio State

01/17/10
Connecticut @ Michigan
Minnesota @ Indiana

2010-01-04T09:45:00.006-05:00

Get Gamm - Big Ten Basketball
I hope to add to this post later... thoughts on the 3-3 record to date in the bowls, thoughts on the first week of Big Ten hoops. But I at least need to get this week's slate of games on the table!

Sorry, vaca had me busy with house projects and now it's back to work...

01/05/10
Minnesota @ Purdue
Iowa @ Illinois

01/06/10
Wisconsin @ Michigan State
Indiana @ Ohio State

01/07/10
Michigan @ Penn State

01/09/10
Purdue @ Wisconsin
Michigan State @ Iowa
Illinois @ Indiana
Ohio State @ Minnesota

01/10/10
Northwestern @ Michigan

2009-12-22T13:34:00.016-05:00

Wrapping up 2009...
It's hard to believe that another year - heck, another decade - has come and gone. Here we sit just a week or so from the end of a great year. One full of highs and lows for the Big Ten. One ending with seven teams fighting for league cred in bowl games. One closing with talk of expansion. One fading out with our first (finally) ACC-Big Ten challenge win and tons of past and future hoops success on the horizon.

And can you believe that between this blog (circa August 2006) and the old TheFinalScore.net site (Established in 2000) this wraps ten years of me carrying on about this conference? WOW!

It's been a fun ride and I hope to continue to pontificate about all things Big Ten for years to come. In the meantime, my annual football "report card", the first league play picks for Get Gamm Basketball and a link to the bowl picks follow.

Merry Christmas. Happy New Year. GO BIG TEN!

Team by Team
Time for a quick synopsis for each team (in order of my preseason predictions), including a look at how my predictions played out and what is left for 2009 before the books are officially closed...
Grading Scale (average of total and conference games missed):
0 off = A+
.5 off = A
1 off = B+
1.5 off = B
2 off = B-
2.5 off = C+
3 off = C
3.5 off = C-
4 off = D
4.5 or more off = F

Purdue Boilermakers - An early season disappointment that came on strong in conference play. The Boilers were snake bitten early, stung by a close loss at Oregon, a late in the game home loss to rival Notre Dame and a head-scratching home defeat at the hands of Northern Illinois. The Boilermakers did manage to shock the Buckeyes and get a long awaited win in Ann Arbor and were oh-so-close to knocking off the Spartans and likely making a bowl. You could say that a foundation was built for the future, but there will be some attrition that needs to be tended to in spring ball. All in all, a much better year than I projected.

Prediction: 2-10 (0-8), 11th - Home for the Holidays
Actual: 5-7 (4-4), T6 - home for the Holidays
My Grade: Missed them by three games overall and four in conference. C-

Indiana Hoosiers - I commented in my preview that IU's trend was 3, 4, 5, 7, 3 wins over the previous five seasons. That logically had to mean that 4 was next in the cycle, right? Indiana was actually not quite as poor as the record indicates. The Hoosiers had Michigan, Northwestern, Iowa and Penn State on the ropes but wound up losing each of those games. The offense is young, the defense growing. Bill Lynch might be on the proverbial hot seat entering next year, but I will already ask - "why?" The Hoosiers need consistency at the top and they are very close to being a team that can at least contend for six or seven wins year in and year out.

Prediction: 3-9 (1-7), 10th and Home for the Holidays
Actual: 4-8 (1-7), T10th and Home for the Holidays
My grade: Missed it by one games overall, nailed the conference record. A

Northwestern Wildcats - What a great year for the Wildcats. Despite a tough loss at Syracuse and a home shocker at the hands of Minnesota, Northwestern did as Nike says and "Just did it." The Wildcats have no superlative players, rather a collection of eleven on both sides of the ball that know how to get the job done. Whether the comeback win over Indiana or the sweet, sweet victories over Illinois and Wisconsin to close the season, NU showed a fight we better get accustomed to as Pat Fitzgerald further grows in his role as the head man in Evanston.

Prediction: 7-5 (3-5), T7th and an At-large bowl berth
Actual: 8-4 (5-3), T4th and an Outback Bowl berth
My grade: Off by one game overall, two games in conference. B

Michigan Wolverines - After a rip-roaring start to this season, even amidst player backlash and NCAA allegations, no one saw this coming. The mighty Wolverines went from 4-0 to 5-7 with a thud and are bowl-less for a second straight season. The natives are restless in Ann Arbor and if this keeps up, the Rich Rod experiment will end after next season. Internal strife happens everywhere, because you can't keep 105 players happy all the time. But to rat out the coaches for violations? I'm thinking those who may have helped kill any Les Miles to Michigan deal a few years ago are second guessing that. The worst part? I don't see that the maize and blue made enough strides in key areas to think 2010 will be any different.

Prediction: 6-6 (3-5), T7 and a Motor City Bowl berth
Actual: 5-7 (1-7), T10th and Home for the Holidays.
My grade: Missed it by one game overall, and two in the conference. B

Wisconsin Badgers - Aside from Northwestern, the team I most underestimated. The young defense came through, the new signal caller had flashes of brilliance and the rushing attack was at times, spectacular. The Badgers probably deserve a New Year's Day bowl, but bowls are business and given that the hoops and football team was in Hawaii in a two week period, UW lands back in Orlando. Wisconsin is well set for the future with a nice bounce back from 2008's dud in hand...

Prediction: 7-5 (3-5), T7th - Insight Bowl berth
Actual: 9-3 (5-3), T4th - Champs Bowl berth
My Grade: Off by two games overall and in conference. B-

Minnesota Golden Gophers - The Golden Gophers both trilled and appalled over the course of the 2009 season. The new stadium in Minneapolis is a gem, some of the performances there? Not so much. For the big wins, there were games that were way too close for comfort and a couple of absolute uglies too boot. Minnesota lost star receiver Adam Decker for the season and nearly watched a bowl slip away. Still, this program is making strides and should really benefit from the extra practice that a bowl berth brings - even if it is the same bowl game as last year.

Prediction: 7-5 (4-4), 6th and an At Large Bowl berth
Actual: 6-6 (4-4), 8th and a return trip to the Insight Bowl.
My grade: One game off overall, perfect in conference. A

Illinois Fighting Illini - You'd think I would have learned my lesson after Illinois laid an egg in 2008. Not so much. Illinois won two games over FBS foes. Two. Yes, there were tough losses but in this day and age I am amazed that Ron Zook kept his job. Players are transferring. Some are opting out early for the NFL. I am struggling to see the bright side of the big picture. One thing is for sure, with no more Juice at the helm, Illinois will be carving out a new identity. Coach Zook better hope that translates to victories.

Prediction: 8-4 (5-3), T4th and an Alamo Bowl berth
Actual: 3-9 (2-6), 9th and Home for the Holidays
My grade: Missed it by fives games overall, three games in conference. D

Iowa Hawkeyes - Iowa never did it with much in the way of style or pizazz, but man did the Hawkeyes get it done. Two blocked field goals in seven seconds seals the season opening win. Comeback wins in nearly every game, capped by the last play game winner in a thriller in East Lansing. Who knows, if not for the injury to Ricky Stanzi, we could be looking at Iowa in the BCS title game. Plain jane and vanilla as it gets or not, Iowa knows how to win. That's why I think they will win the Orange Bowl and serve notice that they will be a favorite in the league in 2010.

Prediction: 9-3 (5-3), T4th and a Capital One Bowl berth
Actual: 10-2 (6-2), T2nd with an Orange Bowl berth
My grade: Missed it by one games on both ends. B+

Michigan State Spartans - The facts. MSU won three less games than in 2008. MSU lost five of six games by a total of 23 points, three of those by a combined seven points, two on the very last play of the game. It was oh-so-close to great, but in the end, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. The off-the-field actions immediately following the Penn State loss capped a disappointing season. The good news is that the best players are young - freshmen, sophomore and juniors. Not much departs and the class coming in is good. But the black eye of the "Rather Hall Brawl" needs to subside and State needs to put up a good undermanned fight at the Alamo Bowl for this season to have some semblance of success.

Prediction: 10-2 (6-2), 3rd and an Outback Bowl berth
Actual: 6-6 (4-4), T6th with an Alamo Bowl berth
My grade: Four games off overall, two games off in conference. C

Ohio State Buckeyes - Five straight titles. Another win over Michigan. Another loss to USC. A resounding road win over Penn State. A thrilling, title clinching OT win over Iowa. Yep, this season had it all. The road win streak was snapped but once again, in the face of doubters, this team rose to the top. Hard to believe that this marks the first trip for the Buckeyes to Pasadena since the mid 90s. This program reloads and will be the favorite again in 2010.

Prediction: 10-2 (7-1), T1st - BCS Bowl berth
Actual: 10-2 (7-1), 1st - Rose Bowl berth
My grade: Perfection! But OSU is getting mighty easy to predict. A+

Penn State Nittany Lions - All in all, a solid season for Penn State. We saw with the early home loss to Iowa that this team was not going to be the elite team many expected, and that was verified with a resounding home loss at the hands of Ohio State. Despite a cupcake OOC slate that would make even Glen Mason blush, the Nittany Lions did some nice things, including manhandling both Michigan and Michigan State on the road. There is some turnover coming at key positions for the Nits in 2010, but we all know they will be right in the thick of things.

Prediction: 11-1 (7-1), T1st - Rose Bowl berth
Actual: 10-2 (6-2), T2nd - Capital One Bowl berth
My Grade: Missed them by one game on both ends. B+

Get Gamm Basketball (picks due by 12/29):
12/29 - Purdue at Iowa
12/29 - Penn State at Minnesota
12/30 - Northwestern at Illinois
12/31 - Michigan at Indiana
12/31 - Ohio State at Wisconsin
1/2 - Minnesota at Iowa
1/2 - Michigan State at Northwestern
1/3 - Wisconsin at Penn State
1/3 - Ohio State at Michigan

2009-12-17T11:18:00.005-05:00

Let the Bowling begin!
BruceS will have his picks added once he gets them to me. Time is flying away, however, so here are my picks for the bowl games. Maybe, just maybe, the conference can silence the critics and win some games this year...

Champs Sports Bowl - Orlando, FL: 8pm on December 29
Wisconsin vs. Miami-Florida
As I previewed a few weeks ago, this is an interesting match-up of power versus speed. Early on, I gave the edge to Miami, but now I'm not as sure. Wisconsin has a solid defense and the Badgers can dominate on the ground while also getting good use out of an NFL-caliber tight end. Miami has been really prone to turnovers of late and historically, these sorts of games are uninteresting the the 'canes. Wisconsin wants to get the taste of last year's whipping by Florida State out of its mouth. John Clay runs for 150 and the Badgers keep the Miami air attack at bay. Wisconsin 24 - Miami 20.

Insight Bowl - Tempe, AZ: 6pm on December 31
Minnesota vs. Iowa State
Looking for something exciting to watch before you head to that swanky New Year's Eve party? Uh, don't watch this! Sorry Gophers but this game has zero appeal. In main statistical categories, these teams combine to have four rankings worse than 100, and only one better than 75. Minnesota showed flashed of brilliance against Michigan State and then barely limped home to six wins. Iowa State has improved a lot since last season. The Gophers have more to prove with this return trip to Tempe. Minnesota 23 - Iowa State 17.

Outback Bowl - Tampa, FL: 11am on January 1
Northwestern vs. Auburn
First New Year's Day game since 1997? Check. Best chance for a bowl win since 1949? Yep. Northwestern matches up well against the Tigers. Auburn has a nice offense and a really good pass rusher in Antonio Coleman but finished with a thud, losing five of its last six conference games. The Wildcats, on the other hand, finished strong, beating then top five Iowa and Wisconsin to leap into a January 1 game. Mike Kafka is an underrated threat at quarterback and the NU defense has been improving week by week. History is not on Northwestern's side, but streaks are meant to be broken. Northwestern 30 - Auburn 28.

Capital One Bowl - Orlando, FL: 1pm on January 1
Penn State vs. Louisiana State
On paper, this looks like one of the easier match-ups for the Big Ten. Penn State's offense is far more efficient and powerful than the LSU attack. And Penn State has a solid defense, if not quite as good as the one the Tigers field. Both teams are probably a bit disappointed that they missed out on the BCS, but this is arguably the best non BCS game on the slate. It could go one of two ways... Penn State could still feel snubbed by the BCS and come out lethargic. Or, the Nittany Lions could come out with a chip on their shoulder, ready to prove the BCS wrong for passing them by. I think it will fall somewhere in the middle. Penn State puts the Big Ten over the bowl hump early with a nice win in Orlando. Penn State 27 - LSU 18.

The Rose Bowl - Pasadena, CA: 4:30pm on January 1
Ohio State vs. Oregon
This one is all about strength versus strength. A stout OSU run defense versus a potent Oregon rushing attack. This is the Buckeyes' first trip to Pasadena in over a decade and that one was an instant classic. The scarlet and gray have the athletes to stay right in this game, but Oregon was better all season long. The one common opponent - USC - nipped the Buckeyes in C-bus and got shredded by the Ducks in Eugene. OSU's best shot it to ditch the conservative offense and let Pryor loose. Not sure that will happen. Oregon 31 - Ohio State 27.

Alamo Bowl - San Antonio, TX: 9pm on January 2
Michigan State vs. Texas Tech
Have you heard the news? Michigan State has suspended a bunch of players for the bowl game. Texas Tech has one of the most potent passing attacks in college football. Oh my. Perhaps the Spartans should just stay home. Give me a break. I'm tired of hearing how State has no chance. Yes, this game would be tough even with a full compliment of players but let's get something straight - MSU lose ONE defensive starter. Not six. Yes, he is a corner but he's also a corner who did more bad than good this year. What no one wants to point out is that Texas Tech doesn't stop the run very well and ranks at the bottom in rushing offense. I think with a dented receiving corps, MSU sticks to the ground, sprinkles in Blair White and the tight ends to keep it honest and runs a fair amount of "Wildcat" with Keshawn Martin. It'll be a shootout, one that MSU finds a way to win. Michigan State 41 - Texas Tech 38.

Orange Bowl - Miami, FL: 8pm on January 5
Iowa vs. Georgia Tech
If you look at this one from a stats only point of view, you have to assume that the Jackets will roll. Ah, but not so fast my friend. Iowa is year in and year out one of the Big Ten's most consistent bowl performers. With five weeks to prep, I like the chances of Norm Parker's defense against this classic option attack. I think Tech comes out rusty, Iowa stays nice and balanced and makes big plays on defense and wins with a key special teams play. Iowa 26 - Georgia Tech 24.

Quick weigh in on expansion...
Maybe my last post got the Commish thinking it is time to go with a 12th team. Or maybe not. Either way, I like that the topic is back on the table.

Many schools are being tossed around but I think only one or two is a worthy candidate. Here is my breakdown of "serious contenders", "maybes" and "uh, hell nos".

Serious contenders:
Notre Dame - they'll say no, but we have to ask again. Geographically it makes sense. TV revenue it makes major sense. Should be the league's first choice, even if they say no before they say no

Pittsburgh - my personal pick. Already a natural rivalry built in with Penn State. Strong academics. Strong sports programs in general. Not a new TV market, but a great fit in every other way.

Syracuse - an intriguing option. A new-ish market, albeit upstate New York. Rivalry potential with Penn State. Worthwhile for many reasons.

Maybes:
Rutgers - I'm not impressed with the quality of athletics, but the academics are strong, the addition of the New York market is huge and again, there is the potential for a rivalry with Penn State.

Missouri - Another natural fit in terms of a ready-made rivalry (Illinois) a good media market (St. Louis) and decent academics.

UConn - Seems a little far away but a growing football program, solid basketball programs, major media market... worth a look anyway.

Uh, no way:
Cincinnati - Great recent success but generally - yawn....

West Virgina - Poor academics, no major media market, do I need to go on?

Louisville - Not a bad idea but on the scale, they fall between WVU and Cincy.

2009-12-07T11:22:00.004-05:00

Let's go bowling
I'm really glad that the Big Ten is extending the football slate into Thanksgiving weekend starting next season. This sitting around waiting, speculating and gathering rust is not helpful while the other conferences are hogging up the spotlight.

In fact, I wish the Big Ten would hurry up and add a 12th team so that we can just have a conference championship game already. It could even rotate between Detroit, Indy and Minny to spread the wealth. But that's another wish for another story.

Time now to focus on here and now. The Big Ten bowl bids more or less shook out as expected and finally, the conference might have a chance to quiet its critics and win some ball games. And something that none of the pundits are willing to point out very readily - this is the ninth time in 12 BCS years that the Big Ten sends two to the "big bowls." Since the inception of the BCS in 1998, the Big Ten has qualified 21 teams for BCS bowls, more than any other conference. Not bad at all...

Champs Sports Bowl - Orlando, FL: 8pm on December 29
Wisconsin vs. Miami-Florida
An interesting match-up of power versus speed. I do think that the Badgers stack up better here than Northwestern would have and in fact, this might be one of the best pre-New Year's Bowl contests. The Badgers hammered Hawaii and likely wound up here due to a gut feel that UW fans might be travel fatigued after the basketball and football teams have been in Hawaii in the past three weeks. Early edge? Miami-Florida.

Insight Bowl - Tempe, AZ: 6pm on December 31
Minnesota vs. Iowa State
A good match-up for the Big Ten. Minnesota is back to Tempe for the second-straight season and this time seeks a victory. I am a little surprised that the Alamo passed on Minnesota based on the off the field stuff hitting the fan in East Lansing, but then again, MSU provides a better match for Texas Tech. Iowa State had a great turnaround from last year's two-win campaign. The Golden Gophers limp into this but want to win to set the tone for next year. Early edge? Minnesota

Outback Bowl - Tampa, FL: 11am on January 1
Northwestern vs. Auburn
I've always been a fan of this game. You wake up after a late night bringing in the New Year and viola, football is on and the Big Ten is front and center. You can bet Northwestern is loving it too. After being snubbed for Iowa a season ago, the Wildcats snuck past Wisconsin. That is all about the fact that UW has been to Hawaii and back recently. Plus, frankly, the match-up is better. I like the Wildcats' chances in this one. Their first New Year's Day contest since 1997 and a shot at their first win in 60 years. Early edge? Northwestern

Capital One Bowl - Orlando, FL: 1pm on January 1
Penn State vs. Louisiana State
A classic New Year's day tilt between two college football powerhouses. And hey, if JoePa stays around long enough, this could preview a coaching match of the minds of the future in the Big Ten (that is if RichRod fails and Les Miles comes to the rescue in Ann Arbor). Penn State is probably a little disappointed that it got passed over by Iowa for the BCS at-large berth but you all know how I feel. When all else is tied, the head-to-head winner should get the nod. LSU never quite materialized this year while PSU also had its share of head scratching moments. Still, I like this match-up too. Early edge? Penn State

The Rose Bowl - Pasadena, CA: 4:30pm on January 1
Ohio State vs. Oregon
This should be the best BCS game outside of the National Championship. The Buckeyes defense versus the Ducks potent offense. Two of the more athletic quarterbacks in college football. Surprisingly, given their successes, the first Rose Bowl jaunt for either team since the mid-90s. The last time here the Buckeyes won on a late Germaine to Boston TD pass to beat Jake the Snake and the ASU Sun Devils. Oregon's last trip to the hallowed grounds was a loss to Penn State. I can't wait to watch this one... Early edge? Oregon

Alamo Bowl - San Antonio, TX: 9pm on January 2
Michigan State vs. Texas Tech
I have already heard everyone from Fox to ESPN to the Big Ten Network call this a major mismatch. I'll forgive them for being so presumptive so quickly. The Spartans will go into this with a chip on their shoulder. Riding a three game bowl losing streak, without some notable players and all the talk about how the Red Raiders will shred the MSU secondary. So be it. I think that if MSU can get some pressure and also shut down the run game, this will be a chance to silence the critics. And the State offense is pretty good too, with or without a few wide outs. This is perennially one of the better non BCS games, it might be again. Early edge? Texas Tech

Orange Bowl - Miami, FL: 8pm on January 5
Iowa vs. Georgia Tech
This one is very intriguing to me. Iowa has one of the most underrated defenses in the nation. Georgia Tech is a throwback joy to watch with the triple option. I know that with the limited access to triple option capable scout team players, the Yellow Jackets should have an upper hand, but I want Norm Parker on my side every time in these cases. My bigger fear is Iowa's attack. It hasn't been great and Stanzi will have to shake two months of rust. Still, as we get closer, I'll like Iowa's chances to get it done. Right now? Early edge? Georgia Tech

As for the rest...
Illinois - what a painful - if not appropriate - way to end the season. It looks like Zook will be back but the noose is on and will quickly tighten if the Illini don't get back to winning next season.

Indiana - the really bad news is that IU doesn't have hoops to look forward to quite yet. Will be a long winter in Bloomington, but this program has a chance to take a step up next season.

Michigan - I'm not sold that this team is poised to make the next step next year. Yes, the defense was young but it was also really bad. The offense isn't where it needs to be yet and there are rumors that Forcier might be supplanted by a newcomer next season? Not the start this program needs for 2010.

Purdue - The Boilers came on strong this year but have to replace some key pieces and parts. I do like the fire Danny Hope brings to the table, however, and think Purdue will make some noise in the near future.

The final Get Gamm picks - bowl style - are due by December 28. And BruceS gets to pick with me for winning the tiebreaker on the week 12 picks...

2009-11-30T15:51:00.011-05:00

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year ... Basketball Time!

Editor's Note: I started this before the Big Ten / ACC Challenge was done. YEESSS! Finally a hard earned victory in the contest for the good guys. Hat's off to Illinois and Wisconsin who made it possible! Get Gamm Hoops style standings are up. We'll start again in late December. If you missed the first week, jump in, you're not too far behind!

Anyone who knows me or who has followed my former web site and now blog knows where my true sports love lies. College basketball. I love the game. Can't get enough of it. I just wish I had the time to devote to my previews for hoops that I do for football. But alas, it's all about timing and with football just slowing down and work busy, there just isn't the time to go as in-depth as I'd prefer.

That said, I did, as always, take the time to study each team, review their schedules, predict the entire Big Ten season, and for that matter, the entire season for each team in the conference. So, what follows is a snapshot of what I'd love to ramble on and on and on about but don't have the time for.

I expect the Big Ten to be among the best and brightest this season - particularly when it matters most - March. Yes, we're coming off a rough couple of holiday tournament showings, but look at Michigan State as an example. Last out of state, preseason holiday tournament title? 1998. Final fours in that time? Five. You can take the November wins. I'll settle for March/April victories any time...

Predictions:
T1 - Michigan State Spartans
OOC Projection: 11-2
Big Ten Projection: 15-3
Big Ten Tourney: Runner Up
Postseason: NCAA Tournament - National Runner Up
Total Record: 33-7

Comments: Despite the loss of a leader like Travis Walton and an unsung do-it-all big man in Goran Suton, this might wind up being a better Spartans team. Yes, better. How? Savvy guards. A healthy Delvon Roe. Draymond Green is an absolute gem. If Raymar Morgan stays healthy and the big man trio of Nix, Sherman and Herzog can provide ample minutes, look out.

T1 - Purdue Boilermakers
OOC Projection: 12-0
Big Ten Projection: 15-3
Big Ten Tourney: Champs
Postseason: NCAA Tournament - Final Four
Total Record: 34-4

Comments: This team is flat out loaded and healthy after a rough bout with injuries a season ago. Don't discount the "MSU factor" here either. That is, watch for the location of the Final Four (Indy) to play a big role in the motivation for this team. Purdue will come up just short in the conference, but win the conference tournament and give the league two in the Final Four.

3 - Minnesota Golden Gophers
OOC Projection: 8-4
Big Ten Projection: 12-6
Big Ten Tourney: Quarterfinals
Postseason: Sweet 16
Total Record: 22-12

Comments: I like what Tubby is doing in Minny. Some rough patches early in the season will strengthen this team for the time of the year that matters - Big Ten time.

4 - Wisconsin Badgers
OOC Projection: 11-1
Big Ten Projection: 11-7
Big Ten Tourney: Semi-finalist
Postseason: NCAA Tournament - Sweet 16
Total Record: 25-10

Comments: This team just finds a way. The win over Duke was maybe the most impressive in UW history. The Badgers will go as Hughes goes. The front court is big, white and mean as usual!

T5 - Ohio State Buckeyes
OOC Projection: 10-3
Big Ten Projection: 10-8
Big Ten Tourney: Quarterfinals
Postseason: NCAA Tournament - 2nd Round
Total Record: 21-13

Comments: I like what I see out of this team already. Not as much inside height, but good length and Evan Turner is a beast. The question is, when teams bottle him up, does OSU have enough horses to make a strong push for the league title? I like him, but not at the point where OSU seems to become a bit too reliant on him and only him. This year is a stepping stone to 2010-2011 which could be magical.

T5 - Penn State Nittany Lions
OOC Projection: 8-4
Big Ten Projection: 10-8
Big Ten Tourney: Semifinals
Postseason: NCAA First Round
Total Record: 20-14

Comments: Is this the year that the hard luck Nits finally get it going? PSU will ride last year's NIT title to some big wins and slide in as a "last four in" to the dance.

T7 - Illinois Fighting Illini
OOC Projection: 10-3
Big Ten Projection: 8-10
Big Ten Tourney: Loss in Quarters
Postseason: NIT Champs
Total Record: 24-14

Comments: Illinois will be better than a season ago, but how much better? I already had to adjust my OOC projection by two games given the start to the season. This team has the potential because it plays nasty defense. But it has to learn how to consistently win away from the Orange Krush. I think it is a year away but follows in Penn State's footsteps...

T7- Northwestern Wildcats
OOC Projection: 10-3
Big Ten Projection: 8-10
Big Ten Tourney: 1st Round ouster
Postseason: NIT Elite 8
Total Record: 20-15

Comments: Another intriguing team. I had this team left for dead after losing its two best players right before the season started. So did everyone else. This team is playing well and will make a push for the first NCAA berth in school history.

9 - Michigan Wolverines
OOC Projection: 7-5
Big Ten Projection: 7-11
Big Ten Tourney: 1st Round
Postseason: None
Total Record: 15-17

Comments: Maybe last year was a flash in the pan. I am already seeing a lot of "me ball" from Manny Harris. Not good for a team with a ton of promise otherwise.

10 - Indiana Hoosiers
OOC Projection: 6-6
Big Ten Projection: 4-14
Big Ten Tourney: 1st Round
Postseason: None
Total Record: 10-21

Comments: IU will continue to have growing pains but is moving in the right direction. How patient will Hoosiers fans be? That remains to be seen.

11 - Iowa Hawkeyes
OOC Projection: 5-8
Big Ten Projection: 2-16
Big Ten Tourney: 1st Round
Postseason: None
Total Record: 7-25

Comments: Simply a case of not enough horses in the barn. Iowa doesn't really even have enough to warrant a few upset picks, though any win by the Hawkeyes this year might well be an upset. Too much turnover from year to year. Time to find a core group and build around it, in hopes it will stay in tact.

All Big Ten Team:
Kalin Lucas- G, Michigan State
Michael Thompson - G, Northwestern
Raymar Morgan - F, Michigan State
Talor Battle - G, Penn State
Robbie Hummel - F, Purdue

Player of the Year:
Robbie Hummel - F, Purdue

Coach of the Year:
Bill Carmody - Northwestern

2009-11-30T10:03:00.003-05:00

Random Rumblings & Predicting the Big Ten - ACC Challenge
Hope everyone had a great, relaxing Thanksgiving weekend. I was on the Disney death march with the fam (for the tenth time in the last eight years!) but enjoyed a break from dreary, gray Michigan despite miles of walking and lots of waiting.

I didn't get a chance to see a ton of Big Ten action this weekend, but I saw - and read - enough to bring some thoughts to the table.

Big Ten = BCS x Two
With the Oklahoma State loss to Boomer Sooner, I think the Big Ten nailed the lid shut on another season with two in the BCS. Now the question looms - who is the second team? Penn State with its legendary coach and legions of fans? Or Iowa with its cardiac kids season and a fan base itching to bust out and travel in droves to a big bowl game. In these cases it becomes a business decision, which is a shame. In a tie scenario within a conference, the committees should be forced to look at head to head. Iowa smashed Penn State in Happy Valley. But that was in early October. I'd pick Iowa based on that, but have a feeling that the Fiesta Bowl would love to get a Penn State - Boise State match-up and will go that route.

Tough tournament weekend
Michigan State turned the ball over 23 times and lost to a pretty good Florida team in the Legends Classic. MSU hasn't won a holiday tournament outside of Michigan since 1998. I will ask... who cares? While it would be nice to win these things, five Final Fours over the same span is much more attractive to me as a fan...

Michigan and Minnesota both went 1-2 in higher profile tournaments. Not what these upstarts had hoped for.

Illinois lost to Bradley. Ouch.

Wisconsin did win two in Maui, including a nice win over a ranked Maryland team.

And how about Northwestern? Wow! Beat a ranked Notre Dame and a decent Iowa State team. Who says the loss of the two top scorers would kill their season?

Two kicked out in East Lansing
As a fellow coach (albeit for kids much younger) and fan, I feel for Mark Dantonio. He took a big chance with Glenn Winston and a lesser chance with Roderick Jenrette and both burned him. Way to go guys. A coach gives you a new lease on life for your transgressions (Jenrette's were not publicized) and you do this? These actions ruin shots at a second chance for the next guys who screw up in the program.

Tiger Woods vs. Elin Noordgren
I have to say something since I was in Orlando when this went down. Did Elin use a lob wedge or a hybrid in the attack and did she take a full divot? Okay, that was in bad taste. Seriously, people need to let this alone. The two get no privacy, how about we give them some in this case.

Big Ten - ACC Challenge
Penn State at Virginia (11/30) - UVA and Penn State are both 4-2. Neither has played anyone of consequence so far. Taylor Battle and PSU get the Big Ten off to a good start. Penn State 67 - Virginia 64

Northwestern at NC State (12/1) - Northwestern might be the hottest team in college basketball right now. Seriously. Despite the preseason loss of their two best players, the Wildcats are 5-1 and have beaten some good teams. NC State hasn't really beaten anyone great thus far, but is 5-0 with a few SEC wins to its credit. It could go either way, but the edge will go to the ACC in this one. NC State 63 - Northwestern 59

Wake Forest at Purdue (12/1) - Purdue has a loaded team that is really getting after it defensively. Big win for the Big Ten in this one. Purdue 68 - Wake Forest 57

Maryland at Indiana (12/1) - The Terps have lost two straight and are coming back from a trip to Maui. Indiana is better but not great. Maryland evens up this year's challenge. Maryland 73 - Indiana 64

Michigan State at North Carolina (12/1) - A rematch of last year's title game. North Carolina is struggling with turnovers, the very thing that cost Michigan State in its only loss so far. UNC had to scrap and claw to beat Nevada at home. The MSU guards are the edge as is the motivation for payback. MSU gets a second win in the Dean Dome. Michigan State 75 - North Carolina 70

Virginia Tech at Iowa (12/1) - Iowa is just not good. VA Tech is decent and certainly good enough to get this road W. Virginia Tech 72 - Iowa 59

Illinois at Clemson (12/2) - Clemson is better than Illinois - at this point in the season. If the game were being played in Champaign, I'd give a certain edge to the Illini. But the Tigers give the ACC a 4-3 edge with a nice win. Clemson 78 - Illinois 71

Minnesota at Miami-FLA (12/2) - Miami has been very impressive thus far. Minnesota lost two tough ones in Anaheim and now travels all the way back across the country. The Hurricanes start to make it look like yet another Challenge win for the ACC. Miami 81 - Minnesota 72

Boston College at Michigan (12/2) - Michigan got bounced twice in Orlando and is hungry for a win over a quality opponent. Boston College is rebuilding. Michigan 73 - Boston College 61

Duke at Wisconsin (12/2) - The Kohl Center will be rocking for this game. And this game is the one that means either another ACC win of the Challenge trophy or a first for the Big Ten. Duke is an impressive 6-0 but Wisconsin is a solid 4-1 with some good competition under the belt. UW rides the home crowd to a shocking upset over Duke. Wisconsin 66 - Duke 65

Florida State at Ohio State (12/2) - This one seems like it should be a bowl game. Florida State won the Old Spice Classic. Ohio State has one loss and a nice win over then ranked Cal. I like the Buckeyes to win a close one and give the Big Ten a 6-5 record and our first win in this Challenge. Ohio State 76 - Florida State 74

2009-11-23T09:35:00.005-05:00

Monday Morning Quarterback

It's hard to believe that we are done with the 2009 Big Ten football season. Yes, I know Illinois has two OOC games left and Wisconsin takes its wounded self to Hawaii for a game, but the standings are set and so is, for all intents and purposes, the bowl pecking order.

It was another weekend with some eyebrow raisers, at least one mild upset and some more chest puffing at the top. Ohio State has won six straight over Michigan. Wow. Penn State throttled the Spartans for one quarter on Saturday and that proved to be plenty - which has to make Iowa nervous. Iowa shut out Minnesota for the pig - again. Purdue stomped a rather uninspired Indiana team and Northwestern pulled the upset of the weekend.

It has been a fun season, filled with big plays, shocking upsets, puzzling losses and more. The major awards are to be revealed tonight, the bowl picture settled in about 13 days and who knows, maybe a coach or two will find himself in the unemployment line.

We're not totally done with football here. After today we'll have the last of Get Gamm - Football style and a report card on my preseason picks. Note that the standings are updated through last weekend's games. There are still ten left (including the three you already picked for the last regular season games).

I'll be shifting focus to hoops as we start with the Big Ten - ACC Challenge next week already. I hope to get my preseason picks out ASAP too...

Team of the Week: Northwestern. Congrats to the cats. Northwestern posted a sweet win over Wisconsin and with that, a solid 8-4 (5-3) record. NU better keep hold of Pat Fitzgerald because I think Notre Dame would love to hire a young, up and coming Irish boy to replace Jabba the Coach.

Player of the Week: Call this one a lifetime achievement award... Daryll Clark, Penn State quarterback, has carved up the Spartans for 651 yards and 8 TD passes in the past two seasons. His third quarter explosion gives him the nod over a cast of worthy opponents (Elliott, Kafka, Jones).

Around the Big Ten
The team-by-team capsules include my final bowl (and opponent) projections. Here is where Adam Rittenberg sees the Big Ten falling, as well as the experts at ESPN and CBS.

Illinois - Illinois has two games left and while no bowl game is on tap, the extended season sort of allows for that extra practice, without really getting extra practice. The big question these last two weeks will be "Is Ron Zook's job safe?" I'm not so sure it is. Next up: at Cincinnati (11/27), Fresno State (12/5)

Indiana - Indiana really let me down this past weekend. I thought we'd see more fight out of IU in the battle for the Old Oaken Bucket. Negatory. The Hoosiers got slapped around Memorial Stadium by its rival. I think Bill Lynch is safe, if only because Indiana is young and has the potential to be decent in 2010. Next Up: Spring Practice

Iowa - It wasn't pretty but Iowa shut out Minnesota again to retain Floyd. Iowa sits at 11 in the latest BCS poll but will have to sweat it out with Penn State to see if an at-large is tossed their way. I think the Big Ten DOES get that second berth, and then it becomes a chess match with the very PSU team Iowa smacked around in State College. I'm a little torn on which way the BCS will lean, but predict that Iowa brings enough cache to squeeze out the Nittany Lions. Next up: versus Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl.

Michigan - Let the speculation build. Will Rich Rod be back for a third season? Can Michigan fans, alums, faculty, etc. tolerate more growing pains? I think Rodriguez will be back UNLESS the NCAA upturns something nasty, in which case he'll be run out on a rail. Sorry to wash, rinse, repeat, but this will be the story line in Ann Arbor now that Michigan is once again home for the holidays. Next up: Spring Practice

Michigan State - This was not the way MSU wanted to end its season. After a wonderful first half, State snapped and got handled at home by Penn State for the first time. Most MSU-PSU tilts in East Lansing have been MSU blowout wins or instant classics. Not this time. The good news for the Spartans is that despite the hiccup, a bowl game and all that extra practice awaits. That is critical for a team this young. Next up: versus Oklahoma in the Alamo Bowl

Minnesota - Yikes. After the impressive win over Michigan State, Minnesota has been a dud. The Gophers are barely bowl eligible and playing some awful football right now - particularly on the offensive side of the ball. By virtue of a predicted two teams in the BCS, Minnesota avoids the Pizza Pizza bowl and returns to Tempe for New Year's Eve. Next up: versus Texas Tech in the Insight Bowl

Northwestern - Last week I said I was impressed. This week? I'm really impressed. What Pat Fitzgerald has done here is amazing. Northwestern's win firmly planted the Wildcats in warm, sunny Florida for the holidays. Now NU just has to keep the Irish away from its rising star of a coach. Next up: versus North Carolina in the Champs Sports Bowl

Ohio State - Hard to believe fact of the year? Ohio State finishes first, Michigan last in the Big Ten. OSU is off to Pasadena for the first time in over a decade and will bring throngs of scarlet and gray clad fans with them. I like the potential match up out there with the Ducks. In fact, outside of the title game, this looks to be the best on the table. Next Up: versus Oregon in the Rose Bowl

Penn State - The Nittany Lions obliterated Michigan State for 15 minutes on Saturday and that was all that was needed to seal another ten-win season for JoePa. The ageless one has an amazing 21 seasons with ten or more wins. The performance in East Lansing certainly helped the cause for the Nits, who hope to sneak past Iowa and into the BCS mix. I think that loss in State College to the Hawkeyes sends them to Orlando instead. Next up: versus Ole Miss in the Capital One Bowl.

Purdue - Saturday's resounding win in Bloomington should be a good building block for 2010. Purdue put up some fantastic numbers this season but was a few bounces from a much better record. Look for the Boilers to build on the second half success and go bowling in 2010. Next up: Spring Practice

Wisconsin - The Badgers laid an egg in Evanston and cost themselves a shot at a BCS berth and perhaps moved all the way below the Wildcats in the bowl pecking order. The safer bet is that the well-traveled Badgers get win nine in Hawaii and then roll down to Tampa for New Year's Day. Next up: at Hawaii (12/5), versus LSU in the Outback Bowl.

Get Gamm Football:
With three games left from the regular season and the bowl games to go, Andrew and St. Louis Spartan are deadlocked at the top. Look for the bowl version of Get Gamm to come out the week of December 7.

Meantime, let's Get Gamm - hoops style! We'll pick the Big Ten - ACC Challenge and then get after it in full once conference play tips off...

Penn State at Virginia (11/30)
Northwestern at NC State (12/1)
Wake Forest at Purdue (12/1)
Maryland at Indiana (12/1)
Michigan State at North Carolina (12/1)
Virginia Tech at Iowa (12/1)
Illinois at Clemson (12/2)
Minnesota at Miami-FLA (12/2)
Boston College at Michigan (12/2)

Duke at Wisconsin (12/2)
Florida State at Ohio State (12/2)

2009-11-20T10:51:00.015-05:00

Get Gamm - Week 12 Plus
Only two more opportunities to Get Gamm in football. Look for Get Gamm Hoops to start with the ACC-Big Ten Challenge and then continuing once conference play tips off.

In the meantime, here we go. A lot of jockeying for bowl position in the next few weeks. Our picture should be pretty clear after Saturday.

St. Louis Spartan won the right to pick with me, but he's in transition with a big move to a new home this week so he just gave me his scores. Guess that means more room for me to pontificate!

Purdue at Indiana - The Battle for the Old Oaken Bucket is a de facto bowl game for these squads. Neither will play a lick of football after Saturday, so for the seniors on both sides, urgency is high. That, the rivalry, and the similarities in these teams makes this a game to watch.

I'm not convinced that a whole lot of defense will be played in Memorial Stadium. Both teams have great weapons at quarterback, wide receiver and tailback. Purdue has the upper hand - or should I say "leg" on special teams, but Indiana has a few more defensive playmakers. When push comes to shove, I'll go back to my preseason projections. I said IU then, I'm sticking to it!

Indiana 40 - Purdue 38

St. Louis Spartan says ... Purdue 35 - Indiana 31

Minnesota at Iowa - In Bloomington, they're playing for a bucket. In Iowa City? A big 'ol bronzed pig. Cool. Floyd of Rosedale is at stake when the Gophers invade Kinnick on Saturday. So are some other things. For Minnesota - dignity after last year's epic beat down. Oh and NOT having to settle for the Pizza Pizza Bowl. For Iowa it is a chance to make a statement to the Fiesta or Orange Bowl committees to "pick me." It is also an opportunity to retain the pig, bounce back from the two-game losing streak and send the seniors off as winners.

It won't be 55-0, but Minnesota doesn't stand a chance.

Iowa 27 - Minnesota 13.

St. Louis Spartans says ... Iowa 28 - Minnesota 17

Ohio State at Michigan - The best rivalry in college football - bar none. No trophy needed. No cute, made up gimmick or name (sorry Red River Rivalry). Nothing driving this but pure hatred. Maybe even some disrespect. Guys from Ohio playing for Michigan. Guys transferring from Michigan to play for Ohio State. Are you a reality TV fan? This is reality TV at its core? Tune in!

Now, this one doesn't have the marquee value of past games. Not even close. Ohio State is already Rose Bowl bound. Michigan isn't going much of anywhere. One has won its fifth straight title. The other is looking at another 1-7 league record. In a way though, this adds intrigue. Ohio State is playing for the pure pride of another win over the arch-enemy. Michigan is playing to get to a bowl. No 1 vs. 2 here but plenty of reasons to watch.

I think Michigan comes out with fire and passion, but cannot keep up when push comes to shove.

Ohio State 20 - Michigan 10.

St. Louis Spartan says ... Ohio State 31 - Michigan 14

Wisconsin at Northwestern - Don't sleep on this game. Wisconsin has BCS dreams - all be they long shot dreams. Northwestern is quietly building to a very solid season. It may be a foregone conclusion that Wisconsin will be in Florida for New Year's Day but we don't know where the 'cats are heading. That hinges on this game. Lose, finish 7-5 (4-4) and maybe the Spartans or Gophers, even Michigan (if bowl eligible) jump you. Win and you'r e8-4 (5-3) and on your way somewhere warm. The Badgers are not likely to pass Iowa or Penn State unless both lose but boy does 10-2 look nice.

I think this will be an instant classic. Wisconsin wins in overtime.

Wisconsin 30 - Northwestern 24.

St. Louis Spartan says ... Wisconsin 31 - Northwestern 24

Penn State at Michigan State - The most "forced" of the rivalries by virtue of the short time the two have battled for the Land Grant Trophy but still, a very underrated rivalry. These teams have played some memorable season-enders over the past 16 years and this should be no different.

Penn State is very much in the mix for a big payday and a BCS at-large berth. Michigan State is bowl eligible but seeks its best three year stretch (7+ wins each season) since Duffy roamed the sidelines in the mid 50s.

The Nittany Lions have been slow starters this season. The offensive line has been a problem. That bodes well for the Spartans who have to get pressure on the QB to have any success at all on defense. I think Swenson seals the Groza with a game winner.

Michigan State 24 - Penn State 23.

St. Louis Spartans says ... Penn State 28 - Michigan State 24

Illinois at Cincinnati (Friday, 11/27) - This is a huge opportunity for the Big Ten to save some football face. And it might be the right time. Notre Dame might already be in Brian Kelly's ear. Cincy will be peeking ahead to a battle royal at Pitt. Okay, back to reality. Illinois isn't good. Illinois won't win.

Cincinnati 37 - Illinois 23.

St. Louis Spartans says ... Cincinnati 35 - Illinois 17

Fresno State at Illinois - I'm running out of time. Fresno is good on the road. This is Senior Day and Illinois' bowl game. Juice and Benn have one last hurrah...

Illinois 27 - Fresno State 23.

St. Louis Spartan says ... Illinois 28 - Fresno State 24

Wisconsin at Hawaii - This trip seems all beaches and bikini clad women but ask MSU, Purdue, Wisconsin and others who have been there, done that. This is no picnic. The trip is long. There are distractions galore. I've never seen a ref over there not put the screws on a visiting team at some point during the game. All of that said, Wisconsin has ten wins in sight and enough time to prepare for this trip.

Wisconsin 38 - Hawaii 27.

St. Louis Spartan says ... Wisconsin 31 - Hawaii 17