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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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...

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

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