Get Gamm...
Back from sunny, warm Hawaii... tough to come back to the winter wonderland that is West Michigan. Some of the inevitable happened when I was gone... IU "lost" Kelvin Sampson in hopes of avoiding major reprecussions from the NCAA. Wisconsin stepped closer to an unlikely Big Ten title - while Purdue and Indiana continue to nip at the Badgers' heels. Four teams are tourney time locks, with two - OSU and Minnesota - hoping to play their way in. It's the best time of the year - March is upon us!

2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa

Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63

MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57

PENN STATE 64 iowa 63

Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65

Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)

PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)

MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61

MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58

Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59

Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62

Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week: 2
/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.

2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58

2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.

2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.

2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.

3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.

3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.

3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.

3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.

3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58

Get Gamm - Week Eight & Nine
Well, I think it is officially a three team race for the league crown. Michigan State lost twice in the state of Indiana last week, but it was losses at Iowa and Penn State that have the Spartans on the outside looking in - again.

This week is critical in the race. Purdue goes to Indiana where it can put two games between itself and the Hoosiers. Wisconsin hits the road twice to play wounded teams (Illinois and Ohio State). By week's end, the race may be completely in Purdue's hands.

As for Get Gamm, Phats is starting to make it a run-away. He won last week again, despite only going 6-4. Here's the deal. Since I am heading to Hawaii (for work) mid-week, I am going to post this AND next week's slates all at once. Mayo170 - who won two weeks ago, will pick this week's games with me. Phats, who won last week will pick the week two slate.

Schedule:
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana* Tiebreaker
2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa
2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State
2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois
2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota
2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern
2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State
2/23 - Illinois at Michigan
2/23 or 24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State
2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota

mayo170's picks for the week...
What a crazy week for the state of Michigan… The Spartans lose twice and the Wolverines have now won three in a row.

What a game this should be, the kids at Purdue are steamrolling through the Big Ten and show no signs of slowing down. Meanwhile, IU is trying to figure out a way to get through the Kelvin Sampson debacle. As we post this week, I’m sure his career is winding down at IU. So who’s it going to be, the young startups, or the team trying to win one more for the coach? Indiana is tough at home and the crowd loves the team, but it’s apparent they hate the coach. The Boilers get by in a tight one: 79-74.

Northwestern 58 at Iowa 65
Penn State 62 at Michigan State 68

Wisconsin is going on the road in a game that they need to win to keep their title hopes alive. Illinois is looking pretty dismal this year after wreaking havoc for most of this decade in the Big Ten. Wisconsin will roll through Champaign-Urbana to stay within reach of Purdue: 69-56

Michigan is starting to look like they understand what their offense is supposed to look like. After a solid win against OSU, they now head to one of the tougher venues in the Big Ten in a faceoff of freshman Big Ten coaches. Minnesota, a solid middle of the pack team in the league is looking to right the ship this week against one of the bottom-feeders of the year. A tough call to make, but home court will be the advantage here: Wolverines 61 – Golden Gophers 66

Indiana 78 at Northwestern 60

A must-win for the Spartans…or at least score 40 this time around. Izzo was steaming while watching IU shred the Spartans last week, and he knows that his team needs to wake up or another embarrassment at the hands of the lowly Hawkeyes will leave him bald. The Spartans will eventually put it together in the second half: 79-71

Illinois 63 at Michigan 68

Wisconsin makes a trip to Columbus to play a team that is coming off an inexplicable loss to its arch-rival. Ohio State wants a win over a tip-tier team to get back on a roll heading into the home stretch and it doesn’t get much more difficult than Bo Ryan’s squad. This has the makings for a game of the week and should be a great one, with Ohio State eeking out a win 63-60.

Penn State 59 at Minnesota 66

Gamm's picks for the week...
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana - Indiana needs DJ White long term - starting tonight. Purdue regains any inside advantage they lost. The Boilers are young, confident and ready to smack around the Hoosiers. Saturday's momentum doesn't carry over... Purdue 71 - Indiana 64.

2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa - sleeper game of the week. But not as in don't sleep on it because it'll be a good game. Might challenge Iowa-MSU for lowest total score in league play this year. Iowa 50 - Northwestern 42.

2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State - Payback. Revenge. Magic came to town, laid down the law and now the Spartans respond. MSU 80 - Penn State 61.

2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois - Every game is critical for the Badgers if they want to win the title. Every game is critical for Illinois if they want to make the NIT. Illinois is due. Illini 64 - Wisconsin 62.

2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota - Don't look now but for the first time in years, Michigan looks like a - gasp - basketball team! Minnesota is reeling a bit and needs wins to save postseason hopes. Michigan slips but barely. Minnesota 68 - Michigan 65.

2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern - is this the first game PK (Post Kelvin)? Northwestern is bound to upset someone. If White doesn't go, maybe this is the game? Then again, maybe not. Indiana 64 - Northwestern 54.

2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State - Payback part 2. Revenge part 2. Michigan State does what they did last year after a damaging early conference season loss to Iowa - they crush 'em. Michigan State 74 - Iowa 53.

2/23 - Illinois at Michigan - Another critical game for Illinois but Michigan has nothing to lose and everything to gain. I like how Michigan is playing right now. Wolverines 74 - Illini 70.

2/24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State - OSU needs a signature win in conference play to stay off the bubble. Wisconsin doesn't turn it over and turns you over. A bad mix for the Buckeyes. Bucky 70 - Buckeyes 64.

2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota - Penn State is scrapping to be NIT eligible. Minnesota needs to pile up more wins too. Coin toss as these teams match-up quite well. I'll go with the home team. Gophers 73 - Nittany Lions 62.

- - - - - -

2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa

Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63

MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57

PENN STATE 64 iowa 63

Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65

Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)

PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)
MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61

MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58

Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59

Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62

Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week:
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.

2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58

2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.

2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.

2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.

3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.

3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.

3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.

3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.

3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58

Thrice in one week?
I have to continue to weigh in on the looming debcale at Indiana. If not for all this Congressional waste of time with Roger Clemens, this story would be much, MUCH bigger.

IU is in a predicament. Do they fire Sampson now? Is that fair, you know, due process and all? Do nothing and look foolish? Suspend him?

In the wake of the upsetting loss - on a bank shot triple by a seven-footer no less - the Hoosiers are bleeding in more ways than one. How do they stop the bleeding?

To catch up on the story... follow it at ESPN.

My own conspiracy theory...
Okay, I am surely not the only or the first to think this, but something hit me as soon as this story broke the other night. Bob Knight knew something was up, resigned to let Pat take his own long awaited top gig, avoided saying he was "retiring" all for one simple reason - he's heading back to Indiana.

Myles Brand is no longer around. Knight is still adored by ardant Indiana supporters. He's got a good five years left in him. Bobby Knight is Indiana basketball. I truly think there is a great opportunity for The General to come back in, right the ship and ride off into the sunset... having paved the way for Steve Alford to "come home" and be his replacement.

Call me crazy, but that's my story and I'm stickin' to it...

Rare, midweek ramblings...
Wow, two minutes to share some thoughts on what's going on around the Big Ten. Amazing!

First of all, Holy Hoosiers Batman. Lose a key role player yesterday, face MAJOR sanctions today. What in the h-e-double hockey sticks is goin' on in Bloomington (aside from three straight critical games over the next six nights)?

Second, hat's off to Purdue. Baby Boilers aren't babies anymore. This is a tough team that reminds me so very much of the first few MSU (Big Ten) title teams in the late 90s. In your jock defense. Solid guard play. Timely shooting. Hustle galore. If State can't win it (they can't if they play like they did in the first half, but CAN if they play like they did in the second) then I'll throw my support the way of the old gold and black.

Last - I am sick and tired of the slams the Big Ten takes from the Pat Forde's of the world. The Big Ten has four teams that are deep tourney run capable. How many other leagues are really that strong? ACC has two. SEC - do they have anyone outside of Tennessee? I'll give you the Big East and Pac 10 but damnit, respect us people. Mark it down, ONE Big Ten team will be in San Antonio in April...

Get Gamm - Week Seven...
Been crazy here... no time to think basketball despite a HUGE week coming up!

Mayo170 went 8-3 and won last week but there is little to no time to get me picks, so mayo, you're on deck for next week with this week's winner.

Getting right to it...

2/12 - Michigan State at Purdue: This is the first of two enormous games for the Spartans. Purdue is looking a lot like the 1997-98 Spartans. A win here for either team is critical. Going with the heart... Michigan State 68 - Purdue 66

2/12 - Illinois at Minnesota: Minnesota gets well at home. Gophers 73 - Illinois 68

2/13 - Wisconsin at Indiana: Payback time? The Badgers more or less dominated IU not too far back, but Wisconsin is a tad off after a tough week that saw a squeaker win at Iowa and a rare home loss vs. Purdue. Indiana 74 - Wisconsin 65

2/13 - Ohio State at Northwestern: NU has to win sometime - right? Ohio State 67 - NU 63

2/14 - Michigan at Iowa: Iowa has been one of the toughest venues of the season for road teams. Iowa 65 - Michigan 61.

2/16 - Minnesota at Wisconsin: Badgers get right. UW 74 - Minny 63

2/16 - Purdue at Northwestern: The 'cats have to win sometime, right?! Purdue 74 - NU 60

2/16 - Illinois at Penn State: Two teams with records not indicative of their ability. Toss up. Penn State 68 - Illinois 67

2/16 - Michigan State at Indiana: The way the schedule looks, an IU win makes them the odds on favorite. Indiana 71 - MSU 64

2/17 - Ohio State at Michigan: OSU 65 - Michigan 62

Get Gamm - Week Six...
We're officially (mostly) to the halfway point of the conference season. There are five teams clearly better than the rest and it should be a great race to the finish. The home teams continue the recent upward trend, bouyed by the likes of Iowa and Penn State who pulled off progressively shocking upsets at home on Saturday evening. Home teams now stand 31-18. Look for that home court to be huge as February wears on and turns to March.

There was a shake up at the top last week as first Wisconsin pulled Indiana back to the pack, then Purdue surged slightly ahead and MSU fell - quite surprisingly - at Penn State to fall one off the pace. Bottom line, while MSU has dug itself a hole with two losses to bottom of the pack squads, it is more or less a four team race at the top with the Buckeyes vying to stay in consideration for March. Hang on, it's going to be a wild ride!

As for Get Gamm, Phats rules the roost - again! He beat all comers and is on a roll Get Gamm hasn't see in a while... Phats, you know the drill. Games in bold below are the ones to give me commentary on...

Schedule:
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State

The picks...
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
Gamm says - Ohio State 80 - Michigan 58
Phats says - Ohio State 68 - Michigan 56

2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
Gamm says - Did MSU help Penn State find itself last Saturday night? Or was that a once every two years performance by a young and talented but raw Nittany Lion team? Purdue is rolling, won twice on the road last week and keeps it up... Purdue 73 - Penn State 65.

Phats says - I think Michigan State did us a favor by losing to PSU, now our young team won't be overlooking the Lions. With this game being at Mackey, my Boilers keep the train rolling.. PURDUE 70 penn state 57

2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
Gamm says - Northwestern 58 - Minnesota 56
Phats says - Minnesota 77 - Northwestern 60

2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
Gamm says - Hmm, a tough one. Wisconsin is playing the second best basketball in the conference right now (to Purdue). The Badgers like the down and dirty style that Iowa forces. Iowa will get one more huge win at home, but I am not sure this is going to be that win. Wisconsin 62 - Iowa 56.

Phats says - Can Iowa take down yet another contender on their home floor? Coach Lick has the Hawks playing some decent ball, however the Badgers looked really tough handling the Gophers in the Barn. Wisconsin struggles but they get it done in the end WISCONSIN 68 iowa 65

2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
Gamm says - the one to watch this week, if only to see how the Orange Krush handle what should be Eric Gordon's only visit to Champaign. Illinois is due for a big win. Indiana is struggling right now. Upset special. Illinois 59 - Indiana 57.

Phats says - Upset Special. The Hoosiers' weak schedule has really exposed them lately, and the Illini are playing better than their record would indicate. This bad blood rivalry takes a fever pitch with Gordon probably making his one and only appearance at Illinois. Illini will rally around a hostile crowd and get the win. ILLINOIS 69 indiana 67

2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
Gamm says - Minnesota 65 - Iowa 54
Phats says - Minnesota 67 - Iowa 65

2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
Gamm says - Penn State 81 - Michigan 76
Phats says - Michigan 67 - Penn State 61

2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
Gamm says - Michigan State 75 - Northwestern 50
Phats says - Michigan State 78 - Northwestern 49

2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says - Payback time. Wisconsin bullied Indiana at home last week and gets a quick shot at payback. The Badgers are a brutal out at home and finally put an end to an impressive run by a Purdue squad that may have already stated its case for being the title favorite - next year. Wisconsin 70 - Purdue 62.

Phats says - My heart says Boilers win, my head says Wisconsin wins. What a HUGE win this would be for the "Baby Boilers" doing what so far no other purdue mens team has done won at the Kohl Center. Badgers will want to repay Purdue for their first conference loss. It's hopefully going to be a good game Badgers too much in the end I am afraid head wins out over heart. WISCONSIN 64 purdue 61(I hope I am wrong! I would gladly take a miss)

2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State
Gamm says - The road stays tough for the Hoosiers. Might this be loss four in five games? IU is bound to get it together for one marquee road win and OSU is just young enough to help them along. I'm torn because I like the home teams... Indiana 72 - Ohio State 70 - OT

Phats says - Stunning loss to Iowa makes this a must win for the Buckeyes to stay in the Big Ten race. It's nice to see IU finally playing some tough games, because right now their signature win is still Illinois State. After this game, it will stay that way. Buckeyes control DJ and Gordon, and get a hard fought win over the Hoosiers. OHIO STATE 64 indiana 60

Get Gamm - Week Five...
Finally, the home teams are starting to take control. Last week (conference battles only), home teams went 8-2 and now stand at 25-14 overall. This is still pretty shocking however, as past seasons have seen even great home court domination. Maybe we're finally to that point, and right as the race heats up.

Indiana is alone at the top but what will a home court loss to an undermanned UConn team do to its psyche? We'll see when the Hoosiers hit Madison for what should be an epic clash at the Kohl Center (Thursday). Purdue is the brow-raising team thus far. Full of youth, the Boilers were supposed to be spoilers this year, not contenders. But alas, they are firmly entrenched with rival IU, Wisconsin and Michigan State as a bona fide Big Ten title contender.

As for Get Gamm, three of us went 10-1 on the week and we all got the tiebreaker wrong. Phats was closest on the total points, however, and gets to pick again this week. Phats, you know the drill. Games in bold below are the ones to give me commentary on...

Schedule:
1/29 - Ohio State at Penn State
1/30 - Iowa at Purdue
1/30 - Texas Pan AM at Northwestern
1/30 - Illinois at Michigan State
1/31 - Minnesota at Michigan
1/31 - Indiana at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
2/2 - Purdue at Illinois
2/2 - Ohio State at Iowa
2/2 - Michigan State at Penn State
2/3 - Northwestern at Indiana
2/3 - Wisconsin at Minnesota

Our Picks...
1/29 - Ohio State at Penn State
Gamm says - OSU 73 - PSU 61.
Phats says - OHIO STATE 66 penn state 51

1/30 - Iowa at Purdue
Gamm says - Iowa is playing decent basketball right now, but Mackey is no picnic and the Boilers are brimming with confidence. Purdue 68 - Iowa 58.

Phats says - The big win over Wisconsin means little or nothing if they can't follow it up with a win against the Hawkeyes at home. Mackey Arena's environment too much for the Hawks. PURDUE 67 iowa 60

1/30 - Texas Pan AM at Northwestern
Gamm says - Northwestern 64 - TPA - 57
Phats says - NORTHWESTERN 68 texas pan am 59

1/30 - Illinois at Michigan State
Gamm says - Don't look know but Illinois is starting to play better. The Illini are off to a rough start but have played most of the big boys and few of the bottom feeders. This is always an intense, physical game. MSU's guard play makes the difference. Michigan State 71 - Illinois 62.

Phats says - MSU looked pretty good against their rivals from Ann Arbor, Illinois coming off an easy win over the Wildcats. This will be a closer game than most think. In the end though Spartans too much. MICHIGAN STATE 69 illinois 61

1/31 - Minnesota at Michigan
Gamm says - Minnesota 68 - Michigan 64
Phats says - MICHIGAN 64 minnesota 63

1/31 - Indiana at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says - Purdue, Michigan State and of course Wisconsin are all pulling for the Badgers to get the main pack at the top back to even. Indiana was stung at home by an undermanned UConn. Teams are figuring out - kinda sorta - how to slow Eric Gordon. Wisconsin doesn't lose at home, especially in the big games. Wisconsin 68 - Indiana 65.

Phats says - This game lost a little luster after this past weekend. Everyone in the Big Ten race still is pulling for Wisconsin. Indiana has yet to show they are capable of beating good competiton. I see 1 of 2 things happening, a long night for the Hoosiers or a nailbiter. I'll go with the first option, Badgers roll WISCONSIN 71 indiana 53

2/2 - Purdue at Illinois
Gamm says - a tough road test for Purdue. Illinois is playing better and will be coming off a tough one at MSU. Purdue is young and remember, despite big wins also has a loss to Wofford! Illinois 64 - Purdue 60.

Phats says - Purdue finally plays a road game on a Saturday. Hopefully my Boilers will keep the ball rolling. This will not be easy, but I like the way we are playing and we'll squeak out another road victory. PURDUE 64 illinois 62

2/2 - Ohio State at Iowa
Gamm says - Ohio State 67 - Iowa 61.
Phats says - IOWA 73 ohio state 70

2/2 - Michigan State at Penn State
Gamm says - Michigan State 80 - Penn State 64
Phats says - MICHIGAN STATE 80 penn state 58

2/3 - Northwestern at Indiana
Gamm says - Indiana 77 - Northwestern 60
Phats says - INDIANA 77 northwestern 56

2/3 - Wisconsin at Minnesota
Gamm says - This is a toss up. Rivalry game, at the Barn. Minnesota has slipped of late but these teams match up well. The place will be rocking and the home teams are picking up steam. Minnesota 65 - Wisconsin 64.

Phats says - Gophers have seen their nice start to the season hit a road bump lately. They have a chance for the upset here, but I think Wisconsin just a little too tough. Close one in the barn. WISCONSIN 68 minnesota 64

Get Gamm - week four...
Congrats to Dan Meyer and Phats for going 10-1 on the week. Phats wins by virtue of the second tiebreaker (total points) since they were both the same amount away from the margin.

Phats, get me your thoughts on the games in bold and scores on the others ASAP. I hope to get my thoughts, updates, etc. on line tonight...

This week...
1/22 - Michigan at Wisconsin
1/22 - Illinois at Ohio State
1/23 - Purdue at Penn State
1/23 - Iowa at Indiana
1/24 - Michigan State at Northwestern
1/26 - UConn at Indiana* (Tiebreaker)
1/26 - Wisconsin at Purdue
1/26 - Penn State at Iowa
1/26 - Minnesota at Ohio State
1/27 - Michigan at Michigan State
1/27 - Northwestern at Illinois

Our picks...
1/22 - Michigan at Wisconsin
Gamm: Wisconsin 72 - Michigan 52
Phats: WISCONSIN 66 michigan 56

1/22 - Illinois at Ohio State
Gamm: Every game is a must-win for the Illini right now if there is any hopes of making a run at the NCAA Tournament. The same can be said for OSU, despite having a better overall record. These games are HUGE when it comes to March. I like OSU at home despite the 3-game losing streak. Ohio State 70 - Illinois 66.

Phats: Interesting game for sure. If the Illini could have put two halves together they would head to Columbus on a 2 game winning streak, luckily for my Boilers they didn't. I'll take the home team in a close one. OHIO STATE 70 illinois 67

1/23 - Purdue at Penn State
Gamm: Purdue 69 - Penn State 65
Phats: PURDUE 68 penn state 62

1/23 - Iowa at Indiana
Gamm: Indiana 73 - Iowa 56
Phats: INDIANA 65 iowa 58

1/23 - Michigan State at Northwestern
Gamm: Michigan State 69 - Northwestern 51.
Phats: MICHIGAN STATE 70 northestern 54

1/26 - Connecticut at Indiana
Gamm: Both of these teams are on top of their games right now. Connecticut is young and hungry... IU has a blend of youth and experience. The home court in this game is huge. The Hoosiers haven't been truly tested in a while. A team with any measure of talent would have beaten the Hoosiers and their 26 turnovers at Minnesota by 20. Indiana passes this test - in overtime. Indiana 80 - UConn 77.

Phats: Uconn just destroyed a pretty good Marquette team, and I am still not convinced how for real IU is, I mean their schedule has just been awful. This will be their first test since Xavier and we all know how that ended up. However, and this pains me, it's played at Assembly Hall so UConn will walk in 10 down and never recover. INDIANA 68 uconn 64

1/26 - Wisconsin at Purdue
Gamm: The game of the week in the Big Ten. Is Wisconsin for real? This is the first decent test for the Badgers who have feasted on the lower tier teams thus far (five wins - not counting the early week prediction - against teams that are a combined 6-22). Purdue is young but will be a factor in the race this year and right in the thick of it in the years to come. Purdue is tough at Mackey... Purdue 64 - Wisconsin 61.

Phats: Wisconsin at Purdue- So, do I pick with my head or my heart? Purdue has been playing really well lately and Mackey was as loud as I have heard it in sometime Saturday vs Illinois. It will be close, and the homecourt advantage helps the young Boilers pull it out PURDUE 69 wisconsin 67 (Of course I pick with my heart :)

1/26 - Penn State at Iowa
Gamm: Iowa 60 - Penn State 58
Phats: IOWA 62 penn state 57

1/26 Minnesota at Ohio State
Gamm: Ohio State gets two homes games this week right when they were in dire need. Minnesota scraps with the best of them. Gophers are a tad short on talent and that is the difference as the race for the fourth and/or fifth slots are in full tilt... Ohio State 72 - Minnesota 64.

Phats: The Gophers are in a tough stretch of games right now, and I don't see them winning this one. That NCAA bid that looked promising might be slipping a little. OHIO STATE 68 minnesota 59

1/27 - Michigan at Michigan State
Gamm: This hasn't been much of a rivalry of late, like on the gridiron but with the opposite team handling the other. Michigan is well coached - for a change - and slowly getting better, but this will be another rough one in a season of bumps and bruises. Neitzel and Co. torch the 1-3-1 zone for a big win that boosts them heading into the meat of the slate. Michigan State 81 - Michigan 63.

Phats: A rivalry game usually you can throw out the records. UM is just not that good this year, and well MSU is, Spartans roll at home. MICHIGAN STATE 77 michigan 60

1/27 - Northwestern at Illinois
Gamm: Illinois 66 - Northwestern 60
Phats: ILLINOIS 76 northwestern 53

Get Gamm Basketball - week three...
Just a quick post for now to get the schedule up there. No one beat me (7-3 was the best record - most of us were there) so I will pick solo again. Picks are due by 7pm Tuesday. More thoughts on last week and other ramblings a bit later tonight...

1/15 - Ohio State at Michigan State
1/15 - Wisconsin at Penn State
1/16 - Purdue at Iowa
1/16 - Michigan at Illinois
1/17 - Indiana at Minnesota
1/19 - Illinois at Purdue
1/19 - Ohio State at Tennessee (Tiebreaker)
1/19 - Iowa at Michigan
1/19 - Northwestern at Wisconsin
1/20 - Penn State at Indiana
1/20 - Michigan State at Minnesota

Realized last night that I still had my picks in draft mode, so I posted the first two to the message board. Here are the picks. If I ever get time to actually sit and write and share thoughts, I will!

MSU 65 - OSU 60
PSU 68 - Wisconsin 66
Purdue 67 - Iowa 61
Illinois 73 - Michigan 58
Minnesota 71 - Indiana 69
Purdue 65 - Illinois 61
Tennessee 81 - OSU 70
Michigan 66 - Iowa 56
Wisconsin 70 - Northwestern 53
Indiana 88 - PSU 70
MSU 67 - Minnesota 66

Get Gamm Football Winner...
Reminder to get those hoops picks in by tip of the first game tonight.

OSU pulled another teenage boy move last night - start strong end fast... too bad. Now we have to endure another year of "SEC is king" rubbish.

Congrats to St. Louis Jeff who was strong all season, faltered late and rebounded with a solid 7-1 bowl slate to take the prize. Jeff, you get $25 to spend in the TFS Fan Shop (link to the right of the page).

Get Gamm - Big Ten Basketball, Week 2...
Well, no time like the present to get to the week's bball picks. OSU is again laying an egg after an electric start. What a shame. I thought they would get it done this year.

Since we're late in the game with Tuesday starts, I'll keep this brief. Picks are due by the tips on Tuesday. Look for updated standings on Tuesday as well, as well as final Get Gamm Football Standings.

Observations...
What a crazy first week in the Big Ten. Home court rules in this conference and yet the friendly confines were not so much in the first four games of league play. Home teams went 0-4 to start last week and wound up 4-5. That will change at some point. It's just not that easy to win on the road in this conference.

One team who really felt that heat? Illinois. The Illini got beat not once but twice at home. Ouch.

Team of the week? Penn State. Two road wins for a team surging and getting it together.

Player of the week? Hard to argue Big Ten.org picks Geary Claxton and Raymar Morgan. Both were HUGE in wins for their teams last week.

The Games...
1/8 - Indiana at Michigan: Indiana is young but also experienced where it counts. Michigan is going to struggle all season long. IU rolls. Indiana 81 - Michigan 63.

1/8 - Purdue at Michigan State: The Izzone is back, Purdue is young and very up and down. I don't see MSU playing as poorly in two straight. Michigan State 74 - Purdue 62.

1/9 - Iowa at Ohio State: Good battle between old friends. Iowa is gutsy but OSU has more talent. Will be better and closer than it might first appear. Ohio State 71 - Iowa 65.

1/9 - Northwestern at Minnesota: 'cats gave it a run in Columbus, Minnesota had Michigan State against the wall in E.L. Minny is better than I thought they'd be - by far. Minnesota 75 - Northwestern 58.

1/10 - Illinois at Wisconsin: Can you picture a sub .500 season for the Illini? You might have to. After digging a hole at home, the Illini go to Wisconsin where the Badgers just don't lose that often. Wisconsin 69 - Illinois 59.

1/12 - Minnesota at Penn State: I love how the Nits are playing right now. An underrated game and one to watch if you get the Big Ten Network. Penn State 73 - Minnesota 72.

1/12 - Ohio State at Purdue: Another good Saturday tilt. Two young teams that need more signature wins. Games like this will go a long way come March... Purdue 68 - Ohio State 65.

1/12 - Michigan at Northwestern: These teams might be fighting to stay out of the cellar all season. Northwestern holds serve at home. Northwestern 67 - Michigan 66.

1/12 - Michigan State at Iowa: First road test in conference play for State, who opens with two in a row at home for the first time since 1986. This won't be easy, but I like how the Spartans are playing. Michigan State 67 - Iowa 62.

1/13 - Illinois at Indiana: CBS wishes Illinois was a lot better than they are. This is an Eric Gordon grudge match! Illinois will play as well as they have all year, but E.G. will get them in the end. Indiana 72 - Illinois 70.

Get Gamm Big Ten BBall...
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas. In case I don't get in a blog before hand, here are the games to pick as Big Ten basketball starts off. I hope to get to some thoughts before that, but just in case, here are the games and my picks...

1/2 - Wisconsin at Michigan - The Badgers are flying high after the great win at Texas. Michigan is struggling, big time. Wisconsin 71 - Michigan 60.

1/2 - Indiana at Iowa - A nice road test for Indiana to open, but the Hoosiers are the other team to beat (MSU is the first) this Big Ten season. Indiana 76 - Iowa 59.

1/2 - Penn State at Northwestern - These are important games for these bottom feeders. Penn State is playing well right now and makes it three for three to open on the road - a rarity indeed. PSU 64 - NU 62.

1/3 - Ohio State at Illinois - The early road domination ends. Illinois 68 - OSU 63.

1/5 - Iowa at Wisconsin - Back to back openers against two of the top teams. Ouch. Wisconsin 80 - Iowa 61.

1/5 - Michigan at Purdue - Purdue is young and unpredictable, but a lot better than Michigan. Purdue 78 - Michigan 65.

1/5 - Minnesota at Michigan State - Minnesota is playing well but is untested. State has been tested plenty. Michigan State 81 - Minnesota 64.

1/6 - Northwestern at Ohio State - Ohio State bounces back in the home opener. OSU 72 - NU 58.

1/6 - Penn State at Illinois - Illinois gets off to a strong start. Penn State has the horses to compete but this one slips away. Illinois 67 - Penn State 61.

Happy New Year!

Get Gamm - Bowl Style...
Well, we've finally arrived to the top of the mountain. The extra session of college football is nearly upon us. Eight Big Ten teams are a-bowlin', two are in the BCS and one is playing for the top prize. We've got some picking to do (andrewj1313 and I) but before I get to that, a few words on hoops and the Michigan hire.

I see the invite to catch those who missed the ACC-B10 Challenge fell on deaf ears a while back. So, for those who didn't get in on chance two, here is your last chance to be in the running for the BBall version of Get Gamm. Yep, that's you St. Louis Jeff, andrewj1313, mayo170 and BruceS.


Here are your games:
Florida at Ohio State (12/22)*
Texas vs. Michigan State (12/22)*
UCLA at Michigan (12/22)
Illinois vs. Missouri (12/22)*
Purdue vs. Iowa State (12/22)
Wisconsin at Texas (12/29)*
Minnesota at UNLV (12/30)

* = worth two wins or losses.

Michigan gets its man...
Well, I'm not so sure you can call your third option "your man" but nonetheless, the Wolverines certainly stepped outside of the box and got a nice young coach. Rich Rodriguez will bring the same style that Illinois runs to the Big Ten. Hey, as they say, if you can't beat 'em (spread offenses with fast QBs) join 'em. My ony question for the ogling M fans - how is he any different than John L. Smith? Good luck coach and welcome to the Big Ten.

Let's go bowling...
All right, the time has come. The last showdown of Get Gamm football 2007. andrewj1313 is picking with me. Winner after this last session gets to shop the TFS Fan Shop on me ($25). Bowls appear in reverse order of how they were picked (bottom to top).

I'll let andrewj1313 preface things... "It’s put up or shut up time. In a perfect world the Big Ten would win all their bowl games, but with the Rose Bowl pulling Illinois into the BCS, the Big Ten is facing a very tough situation. The quality of our team vs. their team edges towards our opponents. Playing several bowls in the opponents back yard won’t help either. Bowl season will either improve the Big Ten’s image, or solidify everyone’s perception of it."

Motor City Bowl - Wednesday, December 26 at 7:30pm (ESPN)
Central Michigan vs. Purdue
Nothing like a little bowl season rematch in the warm and cozy confines of Ford Field. Purdue is in a bowl again, but this is not what they were playing for or expecting halfway into the season. After a hot start, the swoon set in, and frankly, had Illinois not gotten into the BCS mix, the Boilermakers might be home for the holidays (or, in a better locale). Central Michigan, on the other hand, strived for this bowl from day one. This is where the MAC sends its best. The Chippewas are playing well right now and want to be here. That could be the difference in what should otherwise really be no contest. Purdue killed Central in September and should own them this time. But will they? I predict that the Boilermakers will start slow but end strong and eke out a win because frankly what would be more embarrassing? Going to the Motor City Bowl or going to the bowl AND losing?! Purdue 38 - Central Michigan 33.

andrewj1313 says ... Yawn, with a capital “Y!” This is almost as bad as playing Ball State! I know Joe Tiller has done an okay job at Purdue, but I think the fans are settling for mediocrity. No other team in the Big Ten has failed to live up to expectations more than Purdue over the past few years (maybe Iowa) and if the fans and school are okay with 8-4 or 7-5 every year, then Tiller is your man. Illinois has now gone to two BCS bowls compared to Tiller's one. Purdue 48 - Central Michigan 20.

Insight Bowl - Monday, December 31 at 5:30pm (NFL Network)
Oklahoma State vs. Indiana
What a boon for the Hoosiers. After blowing a late season game in Evanston, IU had to beat rival Purdue to secure its first bowl since 1993. If any team deserved it this year, it was Indiana. In actuality, this team was really close to so much more - at least 8-4, maybe 9-3. But this is a great first step and a nice reward. Indiana is the feel good story of the bowl season, hands down. Now, to the game. This one will be fun, if you can see it (NFL Network). OSU scored over 35 points in each of its six wins. The kicker? They give up a ton too. Indiana is explosive and should be able to exploit the Cowboys. I like the dream to continue for the cream and crimson. Indiana 45 - Oklahoma State 38.

andrewj1313 says ... Congratulations to the Hoosiers for playing 13. Five losses and four of them weren’t necessarily to bad teams. I think Indiana matches up well with Ok. St. Just be prepared for the coach (the coach of players) on the other sideline, because Mike Gundy’s “a man!” Don’t do anything that will make him want to puke. The key for Indiana will be focusing; don’t let playing 13 be good enough, stay focused and try to win the 13th for Hoeppner. Indiana 28 - Oklahoma State 24.

Champs Sports Bowl - Friday, December 28 at 5pm (ESPN)
Boston College vs. Michigan State
My first bowl experience will take place in Orlando next week and I'm excited. I love the reward for what was a better than even I expected season for my alma mater and the challenge of facing a team that was once very much in the BCS title mix. It will be interesting to see how the Eagles approach this game. B.C. has the longest current bowl winning streak (7) and their A.D. has guaranteed a win. However, this bid is to the Eagles what a Motor City Bowl bid would have been to the Spartans - a crappy consolation prize. It is a good bowl, but B.C. was a few plays from the Orange Bowl. Matt Ryan or not, I like Michigan State's focus right now. There will be some early rust, but look for State to challenge the very good Eagles run defense and for Devin Thomas to have the game that sends him to the NFL draft. Michigan State 31 - Boston College 27.

andrewj1313 says ... The only thing these teams have in common is they both lost three of their last five games. This is a prime example of the mismatches the Big Ten will be faced with as a result of Illinois in the Rose Bowl. Michigan St. might be able to keep it close for a quarter or two, but Boston College is much more talented on offense then MSU is on defense. This was the #2 team at one point this year and was playing for a BCS bowl only to be rewarded with a non New Years Day celebration against a 7-5 team. If MSU plays smart, BC could be this years “We didn’t play well because we didn’t want to be there” team. Boston College 34 - Michigan State 24.

Alamo Bowl - Saturday, December 29 at 8pm (ESPN)
Texas A&M vs. Penn State
This is a classic, old school match-up between two tried and true programs. And don't let the non New Year's Day status fool you - the Alamo is annually one of the best bowls of them all. The Aggies will have the home crowd but Penn State travels well. Gary Darnell is a one game leader for A&M, Paterno is in his 500th game. This is a rematch of the 1999 game, which Penn State owned (24-0). This is a disappointing place for the Nittany Lions to wind up, but is a chance to send the seniors out with a nice 9 win season while building for 2008 - a season that might be JoePa's last. Penn State has more talent on both sides of the ball and Paterno knows how to coach a post season winner. Penn State 30 - Texas A&M 17.

andrewj1313 says ... A pretty good match up as for quality of teams go, but the advantage will go to A&M as this will be a home game atmosphere. A&M had to have the toughest four game stretch to close out the season going 1-3 during that time. Penn St. can handle playing in a hostile environment, but can they play good enough to win? I think PSU can do enough on the ground and in the air to keep A&M off balance and take home a good victory for the Big Ten. Penn State 30 - Texas A&M 20.

Outback Bowl - Tuesday, January 1 at 11am (ESPN)
Tennessee vs. Wisconsin
This should prove to be a very good match-up. Both teams are young and with talent. Both teams had hiccups this season, though the Volunteers had bigger issues at times than the Badgers. Both teams are led by gutty quarterbacks. Both teams rely on a young defense. Wisconsin is one of the more underrated, solid bowl performers year in and year out. Don't let the SEC Title Game appearance fool you - UGA was better than Tennessee over the course of the season. This will be a close one that comes down to a special teams play. Wisconsin 24 - Tennessee 23.

andrewj1313 says ... Great match up. Wisconsin has won two in a row over the SEC in bowl games and can make it a third this year. Wisconsin needs to establish Hill on the ground and protect Donovan. Tennessee is a typical SEC speed team, but like all Big Ten teams should do against the SEC, play smash mouth football. The SEC relies on speed more then finesse and if Wisconsin can wear them down, it will be a long day for the ugliest coach in college football (Charlie Weis is a close second). Wisconsin 24 - Tennessee 21.

Capital One Bowl - Tuesday, January 1 at 1pm (ABC)
Florida vs. Michigan
Say what you want about the purported Rose Bowl mis-match, I think this is the one that could sting the Big Ten the hardest. Will Michigan be fired up to send Lloyd out a winner? You bet. Can the Wolverines stop the best dual threat quarterback the game has seen in (maybe) decades? I'm not so sure. Tim Tebow is the key. If he didn't put on the banquet circuit weight that Troy Smith did last year, this will be no contest. Henne-Hart-Manningham don't have enough to balance the speed of the Gators. Florida is young, hungry to make an early statement for the 2008 season and not afraid to change things up. Michigan will battle, but Florida is a match-up nightmare for the Wolverines defense. Florida 30 - Michigan 20.

andrewj1313 says ... A terrible match up for the Big Ten as Illinois should have been here. While Florida doesn’t have a true quality win under it’s belt, neither does Michigan, plus this will be a home game for Florida which will be celebrating the first Sophomore Heisman Trophy winner in history. Michigan’s defense will have fits all day with Tebow. If Lloyd couldn’t figure out in three years how to stop Troy Smith, then he won’t be able to do anything about Tebow. I would love for Michigan to prove me wrong and win this one as they did in 2002, but I think Lloyd ends his career at Michigan with another bowl loss. Florida 34 - Michigan 20.

Rose Bowl - Tuesday, January 1 at 4:30pm (ABC)
USC vs. Illinois
I don't care what the media says, I applaud the fact that the Rose Bowl wanted (and got) a traditional Big Ten v. Pac Ten match-up. Shame on the media for pooh-pooh-ing the tradition of the Rose Bowl. To Big Ten fans and Pac Ten fans, it is still the bowl to be in (if you can't play for the national title). I also wonder what the media is thinking when it automatically installs Illinois as a no-chance opponent to the Trojans. Yes, USC is good and playing perhaps its best ball of the season. But, this is the same Illini team that hung the one and only "L" of the season on the No. 1 Buckeyes. Illinois is hungry to be here and will hang with Pete's Trojans. This will be the statement game for the Big Ten, even if it is a loss. USC 33 - Illinois 30.

andrewj1313 says ... I think Illinois has the determination to play with USC, but I don’t think they can handle it, especially in USC’s back yard and future playing field. What will go a long way for Illinois’ confidence is that they already beat the #1 team in the country OSU, on the road. If Illinois plays like that, they very well could make this interesting. I would love to see Illinois do the impossible and beat USC, but conventional wisdom tells me to pick USC…but, I won’t be surprised if Illinois makes a game of it and even upsets USC. Illinois is better than the “experts” are giving them credit for. USC 38 - Illinois 17.

BCS National Championship Game - Monday, January 7 at 8pm (Fox)
LSU vs. Ohio State
You know what, for all the upsets and jockeying that went on all season long, I am pretty damn convinced that we wound up with the two best teams in New Orleans anyway. Yes, OSU needed help after a late season loss. So did LSU. Both teams are a few plays TOTAL away from being the undisputed No. 1 and 2 teams in the land. To the game... I know people are going to pick LSU based on the OSU performance in last year's title game. BIG mistake. This Ohio State team is more focused. No postseason banquet circuits to get in the way this time. The Buckeyes are rock solid. LSU is a great team, but they don't strike me as being as fast as Florida last year. This will be a hard-hitting affair and this time, the Bucknuts break through. Ohio State 26 - LSU 23.

andrewj1313 says ... OSU is 11-1, LSU is 11-2, yet somehow OSU is the team that “backed in” to the championship game and LSU “deserves” to be there?! We all know the SEC is the greatest conference in the history of the universe, and that all others are crap – there needs to be a new division in college football; D-1 Super A consisting of just the SEC and then D-1A with everybody else. I think I just made Mike Gundy puke. Had OSU had to face any other team besides an SEC school, I don’t think they would have gone into this game with the same focus or attitude. OSU wants the SEC so they can shut everyone up. Arkansas showed just how vulnerable LSU is to the ground game and OSU should do what they should have done last year; pound the ball down their throats from start to finish. OSU has come close to a shut out several times this year, it would be freakin’ awesome if it happened in this game. OSU 28 - LSU 20.

A ton to talk about...
Wow, a guy takes his time off for Thanksgiving, goes on an eight-day business trip to the warmth of southern Florida, comes back to un-bury and a ton of stuff happens around him! Time flies when you're busier than one of Santa's elves in mid-December...

Where to start? The bowl berths (which, incidentally, I had almost nailed)? The ACC-Big Ten "not so much of a" Challenge? Michigan's coaching search? A look back at my football predictions and final grade on my work?

Well, I'll get to all of it in the next few days but the first three are the most urgent topics right now. One last thing before I get to it ... those who missed the first round of basketball Get Gamm, you need to make up 11 games before conference play starts up. If you want to be eligible for the prize, you need to pick these games (several being held on 12/8) those of us who picked the challenge, we get to sit back and watch:

Arizona at Illinois (12/8)
Iowa at Iowa State (12/8)
Michigan at Duke (12/8)
Michigan State vs. BYU (12/8)
Purdue at Missouri (12/8)
Kentucky at Indiana (12/8)
Marquette at Wisconsin (12/8)
Seton Hall at Penn State (12/8)
Louisville at Purdue (12/15)
Florida at Ohio State (12/22)
Texas vs. Michigan State (12/22)

The Bowl Berths...
A record ten Big Ten teams were bowl eligible this year. Eight get to make trips somewhere other than home for the holiday's. The big coup was Illinois sliding up to the Rose Bowl, as predicted here. It's funny to listen to the national media blast the Rose Bowl officials for being "way to tied to tradition." That's laughable. Isn't the whole reasoning behind the bowls the tradition? You can't have it both ways.

At any rate, some solid match-ups for the Big Ten this bowl season. There will be cases where we get no love and others where we are sure to surprise. The first game for the Big Ten is 12/26 at the Motor City Bowl. That means picks for the last hurrah of Get Gamm 2007 are due by noon that day. Here are the games, with of course the national title game getting the nod as the tiebreaker.

Purdue vs. Central Michigan, Motor City Bowl - 12/26
Indiana vs. Oklahoma State, Insight Bowl - 12/31
Michigan State vs. Boston College, Champs Bowl - 12/28
Penn State vs. Texas A&M, Alamo Bowl - 12/29
Wisconsin vs. Tennessee, Outback Bowl - 1/1
Michigan vs. Florida, Capital One Bowl - 1/1
Illinois vs. USC, Rose Bowl - 1/1
Ohio State vs. LSU, BCS Title Game - 1/7 (Tiebreaker)

The ACC - Big Ten Challenge...
This is a great thing for college basketball. Something I look forward to every year. The trouble is, Michigan State is the only Big Ten team that has a winning record. No surprise then that the Big Ten has never won the challenge. This year, we took a severe beating. I hope it continues and that the league starts to show up for a change. It's tough when we always have to play the Rodney Dangerfield card. Kudos to Michigan State, Indiana and Penn State for taking care of business. But the rest of 'em? Ugh!

Michigan's next coach...
I love how many "rock solid" sources folks have these days. When even ESPN is screwing the pooch on announcements, you know that there are far more blow-hards than credible people in the business. As a State fan I find it interesting to watch the Michigan situation unfold. All the he said - she said and locks to be the next coach are entertaining to say the least.

Coming soon...
My bowl picks, my season in review and more.

Get Gamm - ACC v. B10 style...
Admittedly not enough time to do proper research and give these games just due. In Florida for business and time is at a premium.

So, without further ado...

Monday 11/26 - Wake Forest at Iowa
Iowa is good and scrappy and so is Wake Forest. Neither team has much to hang their hat on, but I like Big Ten teams at home. Iowa 63 - Wake 60

Tuesday 11/27 - Georgia Tech at Indiana
Indiana comes in madder than a wet hornet after Xavier smoked them in Chicago. The Ramblin' Wreck will be a nice test, but a young IU team learned its lesson. Indiana 78 - Tech 69.

Tuesday 11/27 - Minnesota at Florida State
Might be the ugliest game on the slate. Minnesota is better than I expected, but the 'noles are tough at home. FSU 74 - Minnesota 67.

Tuesday 11/27 - Northwestern at Virginia
This is a good UVA team and well, not such a good NU squad. Not much more to say. ACC evens the slate. UVA 74 - Northwestern 56.

Tuesday 11/27 - Wisconsin at Duke
Does Duke always play at home in this thing? The only unbeaten in the series, Wisconsin will give 'em a run for their money. But the Dukies are playing well right now and sneak out a nice W. Duke 73 - Wisconsin 68.

Tuesday 11/27 - Purdue at Clemson
Two teams that are full of potential. Clemson is probably further along though and at home. ACC gets a two game edge. Clemson 69 - Purdue 61.

Wednesday 11/28 - N.C. State at Michigan State
Michigan State blew it against UCLA and struggled with Oakland, but Neitzel should be 100% again and this game will have the Izzone's attention. NC State is game, but not game enough. Michigan State 72 - NC State 65.

Wednesday 11/28 - Illinois at Maryland
Illinois is a shade better than the Terps at this point, but road games in this series scare me. Going with league allegiance here and hoping the Illini don't let me down. Illinois 70 - Maryland 68.

Wednesday 11/28 - Boston College at Michigan
Two programs rebuilding. A real chance for Michigan to make a statement, but I'm not sold they can do it yet. B.C. 67 - Michigan 62.

Wednesday 11/28 - North Carolina at Ohio State
Probably the clincher. OSU is a good young team but good enough to beat a massively talented Tar Heels squad? Hansborough will go crazy in C-bus. UNC 83 - OSU 72.

Wednesday 11/28 - Virginia Tech at Penn State
Hmmm, interesting match-up. Penn State has talent and has a chance to be decent. VA Tech also has talent and more experience in "big" games. ACC seals the deal with another win begging the question, will the Big Ten ever win this contest? VA Tech 76 - PSU 64.

Monday morning QB - on Tuesday afternoon...
Sorry for the late entry this week. Yes, I am still giddy with my Spartans for their big win over Penn State, but alas it is work that has kept me from the column. The days of partying over big wins for days on end stopped when I finally detoxed my liver after four years of cheap, flat beer way back in the mid 90s!

It was a thrilling weekend to cap an excellent Big Ten season. For starters, are you kidding me? TEN bowl eligible teams? Fantastic. Indiana goes up big, holds on and wins late over rival Purdue to seal a bowl game? Priceless. Michigan State goes down big early in the second half, wrestles back the lead and actually holds on late? Wow. Ohio State captures another Big Ten title by flat out owning the Wolverines all day - again? Superb. Minnesota gives Wisconsin all it can handle in an effort to salvage something this season? Admirable. Illinois rambles over Northwestern and stays in play for a BCS berth? Extraordinary. Finally, Western Michigan waltzes into Iowa and ruins Senior Day and maybe squashes bowl hopes? Improbable.

Yep, it was a great ending to top off what's been as exciting a season in the Big Ten as I can recall. The best part? It isn't over yet. There will be at least eight teams bowling, maybe more. Ohio State can still backdoor into the national title game. Illinois is hopeful that the BCS will come calling. Indiana goes bowling for the first time since 1993 - MSU the first time since 2003. It's all good in the Big Ten my friends, it's all good...

I'll do a team by team assessment/grade after the bowl games are officially announced. Suffice it to say that I had some teams pegged and others, well, not so much. Look for that in early December when we're in 'tweener season - between the bowls and meaningful basketball. Until then, a glance at where I think things will play out for each team:

• Ohio State - another terrific season. The Bucknuts own Michigan right now. They've made Carr into Cooper. OSU needs help, but can still get to the title game. The Bucks have to root for either LSU or WVU to lose because Kansas and Mizzou still play each other and then in the B12 title game. My guess? BCS Title game.
• Illinois - an incredible turnaround. Guess Ron Zook can also coach in addition to recruiting. Illinois needs help as well, but if OSU gets to the title game, I have to believe the Rose Bowl will be seeking a PAC 10 - Big Ten match-up anyway. My guess? Rose Bowl.
• Wisconsin - another solid season. Mid-season swoon aside, the Badgers produced another very good season. A New Year's Day bowl is on the table again. Not what it might've been, but good enough. My guess? Capital One Bowl.
• Michigan - bookend two game losing streaks. Not an ideal way for Lloyd Carr to go out, but let's face it, this was never anything close to a national title caliber team. Injuries doomed the Wolverines as did a defense that was shaky as best. For the maize and blue, who will coach next will be more fun than prepping for the bowl. My guess? Outback Bowl.
• Penn State - not a bad effort by the Nits this year, but not what was expected. Lost to Michigan, Ohio State, Illinois and Michigan State and therefore, didn't really beat anyone (except Wisconsin). My guess? Alamo Bowl.
• Michigan State - might the last two results be the turning points for a program that has been asleep too long? Time will tell, but the wins sure served notice and buoyed the Spartans from a trip to Detroit to somewhere warm. Great building blocks for next year and beyond. My guess? Champs Bowl.
• Indiana - hat's off to the Hoosiers. A heart-warming story of a team winning one for Hepp. IU ends the league's longest bowl drought and gets its just reward. My guess? Insight Bowl.
• Purdue - a hard, fast fall. From 7-2 to 7-5 in the blink of an eye. From the brink of BCS chatter to wait and see mode. The last three losses came to teams now ahead of them in the bowl pecking order and that relegates Purdue to the "can't win" bowl. A win is expected, a loss is an embarrassment. Can't win. My guess? Motor City Bowl.
• Iowa - just when you thought Iowa was a lock. That's why they play the games. No one in their right mind (outside of K-zoo) thought that Iowa would lose at home to Western Michigan. But alas they did and now find themselves rooting desperately for Illinois to get into the BCS mix. Without that, forget it this year. With it, an at large comes calling. My guess? Las Vegas Bowl.
• Northwestern - perhaps no team needed the seventh win more than Northwestern. Tossed into a pool of 6-6 teams fighting for maybe, maybe three at-large spots, NU is not nearly attractive enough to make the cut. Iowa will travel in droves. Alabama is the same. NU has something to build on for next year, but disappointment lingers. My guess? No bowl.
• Minnesota - well, thank goodness this mess is over. I'll give you that the Gophers played a fair amount of close games and that it should bode well for next year, but man is that gap wide between last place and the four-way tie for seventh.

Players of the Week:
Offense - a ton of choices. From Beanie Wells to Zach Brown, Devin Thomas and more. But you gotta go with Juice Williams. 356 total yards (220 passing, 136 rushing) and three scores. Stellar - and only a sophomore.

Defense - Vernon Gholston from OSU. 4 TFLs, 3 sacks. Led a stifling defense that stymied Michigan all day long.

Special Teams - Austin Starr was a hero in a rivalry game, kicking two field goals - the last a lengthy game winner.

Get Gamm...
AndrewJ1313 sits atop the standings and by virtue of nailing the margin last week, gets to pick the bowls with me this season. This will be our last chance to move in the standings. Stay tuned for bowl announcements.

In the meantime, let's pick ACC - Big Ten challenge! It'll be our start for college hoops, which will go full time when league play tips off. In the meantime, get your picks in by the start of the challenge next week:

Monday 11/26 - Wake Forest at Iowa
Tuesday 11/27 - Georgia Tech at Indiana
Tuesday 11/27 - Minnesota at Florida State
Tuesday 11/27 - Northwestern at Virginia
Tuesday 11/27 - Wisconsin at Duke
Tuesday 11/27 - Purdue at Clemson
Wednesday 11/28 - N.C. State at Michigan State
Wednesday 11/28 - Illinois at Maryland
Wednesday 11/28 - Boston College at Michigan
Wednesday 11/28 - North Carolina at Ohio State
Wednesday 11/28 - Virginia Tech at Penn State

Get Gamm - Week 12 ...
It's here. The Big Ten season is full of rivalry games but there is no week as packed with them as this one. And the big one - Michigan vs. Ohio State - is for all the Big Ten marbles. It's been a tough week to find a minute to get these picks in, but that's given me plenty of time to think them over. Bowl lives and who goes where is at stake, so let's get right to it...

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

Ohio State at Michigan
Let's get right down to it. This game - big shocker - is for the whole kit and caboodle. Winner smells the Roses. Loser is relegated to second run to the rival for a year. Ohio State has flat out owned the Wolverines since "The Vest" took over. He embraced this rivalry from day one and it has shown. Michigan is lucky at this point to have eight wins. Injuries have hurt, but so has the underachieving defense. Ohio State comes in stung by the loss to Illinois and is hungry to make it another happy ending. Hart and Henne are dinged, and even if they go, they'll be targets. I just don't see Michigan getting the win, even though it will be close. Ohio State 23 - Michigan 16.

Northwestern at Illinois
The 101st meeting for the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk is at stake and there is more than a trophy to be played for. Northwestern is bowl eligible but needs a win to guarantee a trip - or at least near guarantee one. Illinois is a win from playing on New Year's Day. A loss isn't a big killer but it would be a downer after the big upset win in C-bus. It'll be tight because Illinois might not yet know how to handle success like that earned last week. Illinois 31 - Northwestern 27.

Wisconsin at Minnesota
The battle for Paul Bunyan's Axe ensues in the Homer Dome. Minnesota can't close this season fast enough. Wisconsin is very much in the mix for a New Year's Day trip and wants to keep double digit wins (including a bowl game) in sight. Minnesota will be fired up to end on a positive but just doesn't have enough in the tank. Wisconsin 34 - Minnesota 23.

Purdue at Indiana
Another game, another trophy at stake. This one is the battle for the Old Oaken Bucket. Purdue has lost two straight and is teetering on the edge of an also ran bowl after coming into November on the cusp of a big, meaningful bowl. Indiana lost a heart-breaker at Northwestern and really needs a win to ensure a bowl berth. These teams can put up points and it should be a barn burner. I think IU gets the win that eluded them last week and puts Purdue in a precarious position. Indiana 37 - Purdue 35.

Penn State at Michigan State
The battle for the ugliest trophy in the Big Ten - The Land Grant Trophy - kicks off in East Lansing at 3:30 on Saturday. Penn State is like Wisconsin and Illinois - in the mix for a New Year's Day trip. Michigan State is like Indiana and Northwestern, as well as Iowa - in need of another win to feel safe. The Spartans have been oh so close all season long and finally got it done at Purdue last weekend, State's first road win over an opponent with a winning record in November since 1998. Penn State is riding high but leaves some troubled defenders at home. MSU takes back the trophy. Michigan State 30 - Penn State 26.

Western Michigan at Iowa
Boring. Iowa closes out a great season ending run, nails down a bowl berth and finishes strong. Iowa 28 - Western Michigan 8.

Monday morning QB ...
We have a handful of "firsts" to talk about this morning. The first is shocking and telling all the same: this is the FIRST time since 1959 that both Michigan and Ohio State enter their "game week" coming off a loss. For the math challenged, that is 48 years. WOW!

How about this one: the Big Ten has TEN bowl eligible teams. I haven't done the ad nausea research, but I have to believe that no other conference this size (11 teams) has done this before. The SEC also has ten, but has 12 teams. 90.9-percent of the conference is eligible for postseason play (83.3% in the SEC). That doesn't mean all ten will go to a bowl, but ten are eligible and that is quite an achievement and proves the overall balance in the league.

Continuing on the theme of firsts... MSU got its first conference road win over a team with a winning record during the month of November since 1998. No, that isn't a miss-print. Illinois won its first game over a top-ranked opponent since 1956 and its first on the road - ever. Penn State Coach Joe Paterno played - and beat - a former player (Temple Head Coach Al Golden) for the first time in his storied career.

• Ohio State - ouch. The Buckeyes were in the driver's seat as far as the BCS Championship Game was concerned but that got flushed with the loss to Illinois. OSU can still head to Pasadena and win the outright conference title with a win over arch-rival Michigan.
• Michigan - double ouch. It appears that the Wolverines played at Wisconsin for no reason other than because it was on the slate. Chad Henne played sparingly and Mike Hart not at all. Why? Michigan knew that no matter what, the OSU game was for all the marbles. Shady if you ask me...
• Illinois - bravo. Coach Ron Zook recalled leaving the scene of the 40-2 beatdown in C-bus a few years ago with the credo that things would be very different on the next return trip. Good call. The Illini were solid all game long and proved that with sweat and hard work, you can turn around a dud given time.
• Wisconsin - solid. It wasn't always pretty. It was probably closer than it should have been. But Wisconsin got a nice W over nemesis Michigan in Mad-town and is a win over lowly Minnesota from 9-3 and a likely New Year's Day bowl.
• Penn State - yawn. 31-0 is always nice. But come on folks, this was Temple. Granted a much improved Temple but still, it was Temple. The Nittany Lions can get into the New Year's Day conversation with a win in East Lansing, but are more than likely looking at a mid-tier bid.
• Purdue - unimpressive. Sorry Boiler fans, but your team doesn't excite me. The offense is potent but who has Purdue beaten this year? Even with a win in the battle for the Old Oaken Bucket, Purdue's best hope is the Alamo Bowl.
• Iowa - trudging through. Iowa has taken the momentum gained from the comeback win over Michigan State and turned it into bowl eligibility despite myriad injuries and other issues. The only knock on the Hawkeyes, who are as likely to get to seven wins as any of the four stuck on six is that they are bland and mighty beatable. Still, hard to pass up on a team that travels really well...
• Northwestern - still alive. Just when it looked like Indiana had more or less sealed the fate of the Wildcats, they come through with another great comeback. Wipe out that ugly loss to Duke and this is a team looking to get to eight wins instead of seven. Illinois is a tall task this week and the 'cats are likely the least attractive of the bowl eligibles in the Big Ten.
• Michigan State - impressive. The Spartans struck first, took everything Purdue could muster and finally closed out a fourth quarter lead. In time, this game could be the one that people point to as the turning point. Meantime, a win over Penn State is paramount if State wants to assure a bowl trip and also lessen the chances that the trip is mere miles down the road (Motor City Bowl).
• Indiana - devastating. The loss to Northwestern may well be the one that stands between the Hoosiers and a bowl game. You know if it comes down to MSU and Indiana, the Motor City Bowl will take the Spartans. The collapse puts extra emphasis on the rivalry game with Purdue.
• Minnesota - well... There isn't much to say. The Golden Gophers haven't hung it up as evidenced with the way they fought for the Floyd of Rosedale, but I've been saying it all season long - this just isn't a very good football team.

Players of the Week:
Offense - Juice Williams, QB - Illinois. Hard to argue with the Big Ten's pick this week. Juice beat the Buckeyes with his purported weakness - his arm - tossing four TD passes for the game. He sealed the deal with his strength - his legs - picking up many key first downs in a killer 8+ minute drive to end the game.

Defense - SirDarean Adams, LB - MSU. Adams made two critical interceptions and set up 10 of State's 17 points off of turnovers.

Special Teams - James Bailey, KR - Indiana. The wideout averaged over 40 yards per kick return, including one for a score in Indiana's heartbreaking loss at Northwestern.

Get Gamm:
No one got me this week as there were piles of .500 records for the week. St. Louis Jeff laid an egg that tightened up the race at the top with one regular season week and bowl game picking to go.

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

Get Gamm - Week Ten ...
It's well-established that this race is all about NEXT weekend's OSU v. Michigan match-up. In the meantime, three Big Ten teams are trying to get to six wins and a few are trying to add to six or even seven and step up the end bowl result a notch. With time at a premium for me this week, let's get right down to it...

Schedule:
Indiana at Northwestern
Minnesota at Iowa
Michigan at Wisconsin (tiebreaker)
Michigan State at Purdue
Penn State vs. Temple (Philly)
Illinois at Ohio State

Indiana at Northwestern
Hang on to your hats, this could be a barn-burner. Both teams like to spread it out and can score at will. Neither has a particularly sound defense, though Indiana can get after the passer. IU is bowl eligible but might need one more to be on the safe side. NU needs at least one more and this appears to be the best shot. I like the 'cats to stay alive. Northwestern 38 - Indiana 37.

St. Louis Jeff says ... Indiana finally got their sixth win last week. They can very well keep adding to that total on Saturday with a trip to Evanston. This one could become a shootout (as many NW games are), but I'll still go with Indiana on the road. Indiana 31 - Northwestern 24

Minnesota at Iowa
Floyd of Rosedale is on the line when the Gophers head south to take on rival Iowa. The thing is, Minnesota just isn't a good football team and Iowa was buoyed by that win over MSU and is hungry to get to six wins. It will happen as the momentum carries over for a big Iowa win. Iowa 34 - Minnesota 13.

St. Louis Jeff says ... Iowa is looking to become the 8th Big Ten school to be bowl eligible. They'll get there this week playing the worst team in the league. Minnesota is just plain bad. They really haven't a good game all year (maybe NW). Iowa's defense will dominate. Iowa 24 - Minnesota 10

Michigan at Wisconsin
I know this is a Big Ten blog and all, and that I'm supposed to be objective. But I have to get if off my chest. I have NO respect for Mike Hart and I hate the Wolverines. That said, they have rebounded big time since the disastrous start and no matter what happens in Madison, have a shot at the Rose Bowl and Big Ten title. Wisconsin is hungry to avenge last year's only loss and wants to finish out strong. Going with the home crowd advantage in this one. Wisconsin 23 - Michigan 20.

St. Louis Jeff says ... Michigan is on a roll. Madison is a very tough place to play and after a demoralizing 4th quarter in Columbus, they'll be hungry against Michigan. I still think that Michigan is a touch better overall, so I think they'll pull off a win on the road with Henne and "little brother" Hart. Michigan 37 - Wisconsin 34

Michigan State at Purdue
MSU hasn't won in W-L since 1993. The Spartans are coming off yet another gut-wrenching, heart-breaking loss. Purdue got handled by Penn State but still had a shot at the win. The Boilers are playing for where they go, not if they go. State is fighting for its bowl life. If the Spartans can truly play angry, I can see a win. If not, it could be another trip down heartbreak lane. Going green here... Michigan State 30 - Purdue 28.

St. Louis Jeff says ... After three stinging losses, MSU has to go back on the road to face a tough Purdue team. MSU has been close all year in their losses, and unfortunately, I think they may be on the wrong side of another one this week. I hope they prove me wrong! Purdue 31 - Michigan State 28

Penn State vs. Temple
Yawn. Late season OOC game that means zilch. Temple is better than they've been but still should be no match for Penn State. The Nits still have thoughts of a January bowl dancing in their heads. Penn State 41 - Temple 13.

St. Louis Jeff says ... Penn State gets in a nice little scrimmage before heading to East Lansing next week. Penn State rolls. Penn State 35 - Temple 13

Illinois at Ohio State
This one could be interesting. Ohio State is two games from a second straight trip to the BCS title game. Michigan looms. But here sits Illinois - a team that has some nice wins to its credit this year. The thing is, OSU has such speed on defense that it negates Juice and Mendenhall. Illinois stays close early but it gets outlasted. Ohio State 33 - Illinois 14.

St. Louis Jeff says ... Illinois is having a fantastic year. They'll be going to a good bowl, and have losses to only Missouri (#7 in the country), at Iowa which is a tough place to play, and to Michigan. They will add to that loss total this week in Columbus. Ohio State is by far the best team in the country and will not lose at home. Ohio State wins going away. Ohio State 34 - Illinois 20

Monday afternoon QB ...
It is officially a two horse race to the finish for the Big Ten title. Illinois is the only team still within two games of the top, but cannot do better than a tie for second place. Several teams remain in the chase for bowl eligibility with seven already qualified and three on the brink. It was a weekend with some good football and epic plays but in the end, it still looks like this: Big Two, Little Nine.

Michigan held its spell on the Spartans by staging the third late game comeback win in the past four seasons. The common denominator in all three? Chad Henne. He was brilliant down the stretch with two pinpoint TD tosses to steal away a win from the desperate Spartans in the waning moments of the game. Meanwhile, Wisconsin stayed with Ohio State for three quarters before a late onslaught pushed the scarlet and gray to another impressive win. Those same Badgers and the aforementioned Illini are all that stand between the two meeting at 7-0 on November 17.

As for the rest, well ... Indiana finally got to the six-win mark and can breathe a little easier. Iowa got back to .500 with a late comeback and suddenly looks to be a seven win team. Penn State held off the potent Purdue offense long enough to get back to winning ways. Illinois hammered Minnesota - the one team the Spartans don't get that they so wish they did! NU, MSU and Iowa are perched at five wins, in a season where six might not be enough anyway. It all makes for an interesting last couple of weeks of the season...

• Illinois - the Illini ran their record to seven wins and have a huge game at Ohio State this coming weekend. While out of the title hunt, a win would be enormous in terms of a final destination for bowl season.
• Indiana - after several weeks of coming up short, the Hoosiers finally got to the six-win mark. The cream and crimson might need a seventh win, however, to actually garner an invitation. Northwestern and Purdue remain, both winnable, but equally as lose-able.
• Iowa - the win over MSU sparked something in the Hawkeyes. Beaten and battered, the Hawkeyes have an easy road to two more wins and a bowl game. If any team deserves it, it might be Iowa.
• Michigan - the Wolverines found a way against the Spartans - again - and won their sixth straight in the rivalry. Chad Henne has a magic when it comes to playing MSU. Wolverines fans hope that magic somehow appears against OSU for a change.
• Michigan State - that's five losses this season, each by less than a TD. At the half, the Spartans looked left for dead but dominated the first 23 minutes of the second half. Unfortunately, the green and white haven't learned how to seal the deal and now are in a corner when it comes to bowl eligibility.
• Minnesota - the Golden Gophers are just playing out the string. Two rivalry games remain but it seems like the maroon and gold has packed it in. Illinois ran roughshod on the Gophers at home. Tough first year for Coach Brewster.
• Northwestern - with three i's to try and "dot" over the last three weeks of the season (Iowa, Indiana, Illinois), the Wildcats are down to two more chances to get to six wins. With only seven bowls (maybe eight) to go around, six wins might not be enough.
• Ohio State - the Buckeyes continue to answer and need to do so for two more games to get back into the title game. Illinois will be no picnic but I'm telling you, I like this team more than I liked last year's - even with as loaded as that team was...
• Penn State - the Nittany Lions are playing for destination now. Win two more to get to nine and Florida will come calling. Lose to lowly Temple and embattled Michigan State, and it might be Arizona at best. My guess is they will split the difference...
• Purdue - the Boilers have yet to beat anyone this season. There is a bowl in the gold and black's future, but the next two - not unlike PSU - will go a long way in determining the final destination.
• Wisconsin - see Purdue and Penn State. Wisconsin has a grand opportunity this weekend with Michigan coming to town. Win that and the Capital One Bowl is all but a certainty.

Players of the Week:
Offense - Kellen Lewis, QB - Indiana. 406 total yards. 354 passing with 4 TDs. He led IU to its sixth win - a first for the program since 1994.

Defense - James Laurinaitis, LB - Ohio State. 19 tackles, 2 for a loss. 1 sack. A fumble recovery. This guy is an animal.

Special Teams - Aaron Bates, P - Michigan State. He was the unsung hero of the first half against Michigan. Three punts downed inside the 10 - one on the one. A long of 67 yards.

Get Gamm...
St. Louis Jeff hit the jackpot with a perfect week and stands alone at the top. His three wins is tied with Bruce S with three picking weeks remaining.

Schedule:
Indiana at Northwestern
Minnesota at Iowa
Michigan at Wisconsin (tiebreaker)
Michigan State at Purdue
Penn State vs. Temple (Philly)
Illinois at Ohio State

Basketball...
A reminder that my Big Ten preview for basketball is live. A link can be found in the right nav at all times during the season.