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.

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

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

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.

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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