Monday afternoon QB and half season reviews...
Well, we found out a little more about the Big Ten this past weekend. Congrats to AndrewJ1313 for going 5-0 and getting the tiebreaker over fellow nut Buckeye Nation. AJ - you know the drill.

Ohio State, contrary to public opinion, is not dead. Not in the least. They clicked on offense for the first time all season in East Lansing setting up a HUGE battle with Penn State this weekend.

Penn State is as good as it has been in years. The offense is electric. The special teams among the best in the nation. Can the D bottle up Pryor & Wells this week?

Michigan State, while getting better, is not yet worthy of being called a title contender. The Spartans probably should still win eight or nine games but are clearly a step behind the top teams in the Big Ten.

Iowa has successfully weathered the storm and is looking stronger every week. The Hawkeyes play some nasty defense and Shon Greene could carry this team to a wonderful second half.

Northwestern wasn't a first half blip on the radar. The Wildcats looked poised and solid in dismantling Purdue. The schedule isn't all that bad the rest of the way either.

Michigan is officially as bad as it has been in FOUR decades. U-G-L-Y they ain't got no alibi!

Purdue might be the worst its been under the tutelage of Joe Tiller. See Michigan. Wow. I never would have imagined this in Tiller's last hurrah.

Wisconsin is not a good football team this year. Overrated was made for UW this year. The ground game hasn't gotten on track because the QB play has been abysmal and the defense is as rough around the edges as it has been in some time.

Illinois can beat teams it should. The Illini are pretty good - not great, not bad, just pretty good. They whip up on the weak and get pushed around by the good teams. Ho-hum season in Champaign.

Indiana is back to door mat status. It actually hurts me to see IU step back this way. I was one who hoped last year was going to become the norm, not the exception. IU might not get another "W" all season.

Minnesota - I still reserve judgment but will admit that the Gophers are vastly improved and heading in a great direction.

Along the path this season, we have found out a lot about the Big Ten - the topsy, turvy (compared to my preseason predictions) Big Ten. Follow along for a look at where each team stands in general, and compared to what I saw heading into the season. Also, see who BigTen.org has chosen for POTW honors compared to yours truly...

Player of the Week ... The Big Ten folks and I agree this week, though the choice was actually tougher than you might think. I really liked what Terrelle Pryor did against Michigan State. But how can you pass on Shon Greene? This guy is a monster and gives the Big Ten the three best backs in the nation - in my opinion (Greene, Ringer, Wells).

Team by Team - some comments on where teams stand and the mid-season review of my predictions versus reality (in order of my best to worst predictions to date)...

Minnesota - No big surprise here that Minnesota is the team I missed the mark on by the most to this point in the season. The Gophers are four games better than I predicted and well on their way to one of the best bounce back seasons in NCAA history.

I picked Minnesota to finish tied for 9th, with a 2-2 OOC slate, 2-6 conference record and 4-8 finish. To this point in the season, I had the maroon and gold pegged to be 2-5 (2-2/0-3). Instead, the Golden Gophers are 6-1 (4-0/2-1).

There are five games left and nothing will be easy, but eight wins seems like a lock at this point. That should be good for the Champs or Alamo Bowl.

Indiana - This one is at least mildly surprising, given what talent Indiana brought back this year, but injuries have killed this team and it just doesn't look to get any better the rest of the way. IU probably won't be favored to win again this year, making them the bizzaro Minnesota.

I picked the Hoosiers to finish tied for 7th, with a 4-0 OOC record, a 3-5 conference finish, good for 7-5 and a bowl berth. As former IU boss Lee Corso would say, uh, not so fast my friend. To this point in the season, I had the cream and crimson5-2 (3-0/2-2). Rather, the Hoosiers are 2-5 (2-1/0-4).

There are five games left and IU won't be expected to win any of them, including when Central Michigan comes calling. Grind out what you can and hope it doesn't kill the future completely.

Michigan - Apparently, I got caught drinking the RichRod cool-aid. Or at least I thought he might not try so forcefully and frequently to jam the square pegs he inherited into the round holes he was introducing. The offense, is, well, offensive. The defense is nothing like we thought it would be. The special teams - average at best.

I picked U-M to finish tied for seventh - so I'm not far off there - with a run of 4-0 and 3-5 to go 7-5 and make the Champs Sports Bowl. Yikes, not even close. My predictions had the Wolverines at 5-2 (4-0/1-2) right now. Instead, the maize and blue are 2-5 (1-3/1-2).

Michigan also has five games left. The Wolverines might be favored in one (at Purdue). This will be the worst season since 1967 and the end of a lengthy reign as the team to go to the most consecutive bowl games.

Purdue - Hmm, much like I got caught up in the spread offense hype that is Rich Rodriguez and the "new" Michigan, I got busted thinking Purdue might send Joe Tiller out with a gusto. Maybe it was the way the Boilers lost to Oregon. Maybe this team just wasn't that good to begin with. Either way, this might be the second time in Tiller's long tenure that the Boilermakers are home for the holidays.

I picked PU to finish in solo sixth place with a 7-5 (3-1/4-4) record and an Insight Bowl berth. At the Big Ten midpoint, I had the gold and black 4-3 (3-1/1-2). Reality? 2-5 (2-2/0-3).

Purdue has to win four of give just to become bowl eligible. That won't be easy. At least Purdue should send J.T. out with a rivalry win. That's going to have to be the rallying cry now because a bowl game is a big, BIG stretch...

Wisconsin - Oh how the mighty have fallen. After Coach Bielema started off 17-1, his Badgers have gone a very ho-hum 7-8. Included in that are the stunning loss to Michigan and the absolute annihilations at the hands of Penn State and rival Iowa. The Badgers can rebound but will they?

I am two games off on UW at this point, but the past four have been downright ugly (well, except for one half at Michigan and generally against OSU. I had the Badgers tied for 2nd at 8-4 (3-1/5-3) and heading to the Alamo Bowl preseason. At the conference mid point, I had Wisconsin earmarked at 5-2 (2-1/3-1). Instead, the Badgers are 3-4 (3-0/0-4) and mired in the longest losing streak in Madison since 1996.

The Badgers have their work cut out for them with what appears to be two sure wins left and three toss ups. I think there will be a slight rebound, but it will be just six or seven wins for this team en route to the Insight Bowl at best...

Penn State - I said it before, I'll say it again - this is the best Penn State team I have seen since 1994. Yes, the 2005 team was excellent (11-1) but something about this team reminds me an awful lot of the team that got jobbed out of a share of the National Title in 1994. My level of accuracy completely depends on this weekend's game in C-bus...

Penn State has even surprised me a little - I'm two games off so far. With the losses along the front seven on defense for myriad reasons, I thought for certain this would be a very good, not great, Penn State team. I was wrong. I picked the Nittany Lions to go 9-3 (4-0, 5-3) and tie for second - eking out a BCS berth a la Illinois a season ago. Halfway through, I saw the Nits at 6-2 (4-0/2-2) but they are 8-0 (4-0/4-0) and on a roll.

Penn State stays squarely in the Big Ten and National Title pictures with a signature win at Ohio State and probably stays on pace for the BCS and another double digit win season even if they lose to the Buckeyes.

Iowa - Iowa is one of those teams I was wavered on a bit this summer. I loved the defense, hated the offense. Little did I know Shon Greene would emerge as he has. The defense has been fantastic and the offense is coming around. Sometimes it's a fine line between a winning season and a losing campaign, but Iowa is walking the right side of that line right now.

I picked Iowa to finish tied for 9th - shows what I know - with a record of 5-7 (3-1/2-6). The Hawkeyes are poised to prove me wrong and then some. Given my prediction, Iowa should be 4-4 right now (3-1/1-3) but instead sits at 5-3 (3-1/2-2). The schedule doesn't ease up much, but there should be more victories in sight.

This week is a bye for Iowa and there is at least one more very winnable game (Purdue) left. I think Iowa finds a way to get two, maybe three more, finish up 7-5 or 8-4 and battle for the Champs or Alamo Bowl.

Northwestern - The Wildcats are a fun team to watch this year. They play with a ton of passion and love for the game, no doubt passed along by their Hall of Fame coach. I actually am not all that far off my prediction for NU at this point, but I think they'll blow it away...

I predicted a 6-6 (4-0/2-6) record and a tie for 9th place for the purple and black. I figured the back loaded schedule might burn them but I am cruising to be wrong. So far, I had the Wildcats marked to be 5-2 (4-0/1-2) but they are instead 6-1 (4-0/2-1) and looking strong. The back-loaded schedule, which consists of Michigan and Indiana (also OSU, Illinois and Minnesota) sets the men in purple up for a nice finish.

On the low side, NU will win two more games. I'm thinking it will be more like three, however, meaning the Wildcats will finish 9-3. That will be good enough for the Outback Bowl as one of the most improved teams in the nation. Wouldn't it be great to see a Northwestern-Vandy match-up in Tampa?

Illinois - The Illini have been a bit disappointing. While the losses to Mizzou and Penn State were nothing to cry over, the loss to Minnesota at home was borderline unforgivable, no matter how much better the Gophers might be. Juice Williams is an absolute monster this year, but Illinois is missing Mendenhall on "O" and Lehman on "D".

I predicted a 9-3 (4-0/5-3) finish and a tie for second place, with a Capital One berth for the Illini. To get there, I had them at 5-2 (3-0/2-2) at this point of the season). Reality isn't that far off as Illinois is 4-3 (2-1/2-2) but something about the inconsistency bothers me a little.

The pending trip to wounded Wisconsin is much tougher than it looks. So is the neutral site game against Western Michigan. The Illini still entertain Iowa and Ohio State and travel to Northwestern. Three wins is doable, but I expect nothing more than that, which means 7-5 and a likely trip to the Insight or Motor City Bowl.

Michigan State - OSU lambasting aside, Michigan State is actually a game ahead of the pace I set for them. The Spartans are far more consistent this year than in years past and seem to have a bit more of that "it" quality needed to persevere and win games. The loss to Ohio State proved that there is still a talent gap and that MSU has work to do, but the Spartans look better than expected right now and are set up for a nice finish.

I had the green and white going 8-4 (3-1/5-3), good for a tie for second and an Outback Bowl berth. That record equates to a prediction of 5-3 (3-1/2-2) at this point in time. MSU is one game better than that, however and should be favored the next three weeks.

The next three opponents that the Spartans face are a combined 1-10 in the Big Ten right now. None of them will be gimmes, but look for State to get its first win in Ann Arbor since before I was in college this weekend and to get to nine wins and a trip back to the Capital One Bowl.

Ohio State - The Buckeyes are exactly where I had them pegged to be. Well, except I didn't think we'd have the full time Pryor show yet and there were some more struggles than expected in that start. Still, the scarlet and gray served notice to the nation in East Lansing that the Buckeyes are not dead and in fact might be poised for the title game berth trifecta.

I had Ohio State going 11-1 (3-1/8-0), finishing solo first place and making it back to the national title game. They are right no pace right now and are exactly (down to the right loss) where I had them pegged.

Saturday's battle with Penn State is, in essence, for all the Big Ten marbles. Upsets can and will happen, but the winner is squarely in the driver's seat. In order for my prediction to remain on track, OSU needs the win. I won't pick that one until I have to, but I will say this - OSU loses no more than one more en route to some sort of BCS berth...

Get Gamm - Week Eight
Hard to believe it, but we're already to week eight of the Big Ten football season. Wow! Basketball practice starts tomorrow, the NHL season is underway - seems like we just started pining for football season to hurry up and get here.

As we get deeper in the season, we get into the meaty match-ups. We've got one for sure this weekend with the Buckeyes heading to East Lansing, where they haven't lost since 1999. Don't sleep on the other games though, there are still quite a few with something to say in the Big Ten race.

Since St. Louis Spartan is bogged down with his new job, he'll just bask in the win this week. Without further delay...

Purdue at Northwestern - This has the makings of a really interesting game. Purdue has scored all of nine points the past two weeks and while the schedule eases up a little from the past two weeks (PSU and OSU) the Boilers get a Northwestern team stung by a home loss and chomping at the bit to get back in the Big Ten race.

Purdue has lost four of five and Curtis Painter has seen his Heisman hype flushed. Northwestern is a win away from bowl eligibility and has its sights set on the best finish in recent memory. The real difference maker might be the fact that Purdue is the only team to slow down Penn State's offense to date. Then again, Northwestern is much better on D as well this year. I like the way the 'cats offense has been playing more than I like Purdue's defense. The drought continues for one and the one-game set back ends for the other. Northwestern 31 - Purdue 20.

Wisconsin at Iowa - Another one that should be quite interesting. Iowa took out three weeks of frustration on Indiana last weekend and is feeling better about itself. Wisconsin is mired in a three game streak of futility. I wonder how much that loss at Michigan hurt this team because aside from hanging with Ohio State for most of that game, this team looks nothing like it did up to halftime in Ann Arbor.

Wisconsin may be making a quarterback switch and that may make the difference. This offense is predicated on mistake free football at quarterback and a pounding ground game. Neither has come to fruition of late. Iowa has perhaps the best defense the Badgers will have faced to date making quarterback play even more of a premium. I don't like what I saw in the Badgers last weekend and think Iowa is in better shape at this point. UW goes to 0-4 in conference play and Iowa keeps on the right track. Iowa 20 - Wisconsin 17.

Ohio State at Michigan State - The game of the week in the Big Ten and one of the best games in the country that will undoubtedly get little national love. I'm bummed to have to watch this on DVR tape delay, since my son's team plays at the same time. I can only imagine how much Spartan Stadium will rock for what is the biggest home game since State was favored over Michigan in 2005.

Ohio State seems in a bit of turmoil with some seniors throwing their support behind Todd Boeckman and wavering a bit on Terrelle Pryor. OSU's offense has been less than stellar for much of the season but Beanie Wells is a beast. Michigan State's defense will need to continue its strong play inside the red zone while the offense needs to find a way to break Javon Ringer loose. My gut says the play action will work and the MSU receivers and QB Brian Hoyer will have their best game to date. Brett Swenson kicks a game winner at the buzzer... Michigan State 23 - Ohio State 21.

Michigan at Penn State - Well, this might be the year that Penn State gets that Michigan monkey off its back. The Nittany Lions have lost nine in a row against the maize and blue but this is the worst Michigan team I have seen in my lifetime - PERIOD. Penn State is very good and hungry to make a run at the Big Ten and National title.

I do expect Michigan's best shot of the season in a last gasp effort to make things right. Trouble is, Penn State is too good for Michigan right now. I think this is a game for a half but no longer than that. Clark shreds the Michigan defense late and the Lions kill with stellar special teams play. Penn State 34 - Michigan 20.

Indiana at Illinois - This game serves as a wake up call for both teams. Indiana is in danger of undoing all the good it put to work last season. Illinois is as up and down as a Cedar Point roller coaster and needs someone, anyone to step up and lend Juice Williams some support. IU is clearly a different team without Kellen Lewis healthy and on the attack.

Illinois hasn't done much on defense to make me think they can stop Indiana but Indiana hasn't exactly been lighting the world on fire offensively either. If the Hoosiers couldn't stop Iowa's offense, how will they stop Juice? If you need a break from football, this might be the one to miss this weekend... Illinois 41 - Indiana 14.

Tuesday afternoon QB
It was a weekend dominated by road teams in the Big Ten this past weekend. Michigan State snapped Northwestern's unbeaten streak in Evanston. Iowa pounded Indiana in Bloomington. Minnesota stunned the Illini on homecoming in Champaign. Penn State anihilated Wisconsin in the once nearly impossible to win in Camp Randall Stadium. Oh yeah and lowly Toledo strode 45 miles north to the Big House and slapped another jaw-dropping "L" on the Wolverines. Only Ohio State held serve at home. Crazy!

Congrats to St. Louis Spartan and AndrewJ1313 for tying me at 4-2 for the weekend. By virtue of being closer to the blowout margin in Madison, SLS gets to pick with me this week. The standings are shaking up in Get Gamm ... should be an interesting fight to the finish.

To see what BigTen.org has to say about the week that was, click here...

My team by team thoughts and weekly awards follow:

Player of the Week - I know Illinois lost at home to Minnesota, but Juice Williams accounted for over 500 yards of total offense. Hard to pass up on that as best performance of the week - win, lose or draw. See who BigTen.org picked.

Around the Big Ten - it was not business as usual around the league last week and that might well extend into these next few weeks. It starts getting interesting with big match-ups galore...

Illinois - Welcome to Cedar Point, er Champaign, America's Roller Coast... What is the deal with this team? One week it looks like world beaters, the next it gets taken out, at home, by Minnesota? Either Illinois isn't as good as we thought or Minnesota is better - or both. My vote is on both. The Illini get Indiana this weekend and a chance to get back on track. But can the orange and blue sustain any success this season?

Indiana - The Hoosiers are officially down for the count. Four losses in a row, each one getting uglier along the way. The offense is stalled out, the defense really misses that depleted secondary ... I'm not sure there is another win on the horizon for this team right now. That's a sad state after last year's feel good story. We'll see if the Hoosiers have packed it in or not with a big chance at redemption this weekend in Champaign.

Iowa - Good for the Hawkeyes. The offense shone brightly at Indiana. The defense continued to stifle. Special teams play was there too. Folks, this is a good team that has been on the tough end of three games that could have gone either way. Look for the Hawkeyes to continue to make strides. The tough thing is a wounded rival comes to town this weekend (Wisconsin). Can Iowa ride the momentum of the IU win and completely destroy the Badgers' season? Stay tuned.

Michigan - This is the worst Michigan team I have seen in my lifetime and it doesn't get any easier. 3-9 is looking very realistic at this point. Penn State takes out 9 years of frustration and kills Michigan this weekend.

Michigan State - The Spartans continue to do all of the little things that add up to important wins. State bends on defense but hasn't been breaking and the offense is cruising right now. The special teams play is the real eye popper though - pinning teams deep, making field goals seem automatic and getting big time returns. The schedule gets immediately tougher this weekend when the Buckeyes come calling but State has to be considered a contender at this point.

Minnesota - I haven't given the Golden Gophers an ounce of credit so far. Shame on me. This team has come light years from a season ago and gets a weekend off to rest up for the stretch run. Hats off to Brewster and Co. Minnesota will be a factor in the race, even if the Gophers aren't truly a contender - yet...

Northwestern - The Wildcats took one on the chin at home last weekend but are still a good football team. Purdue comes calling this weekend and is ripe for the picking, coming off of three straight losses. Like Minnesota, I don't expect NU to contend, but I do expect them to factor heavily into the rest of the race...

Ohio State - Ohio State is playing championship defense right now. The offense is still trying to find its identity with Pryor at the helm but is always a threat. Back to back games at Michigan State and at home against Penn State will tell us if the Bucks are for real or not the rest of the way.

Penn State - The Nittany Lions are still not getting much national love - at least from the pundits. I like this team to make a run at the National Title game. The offense is full of weapons, the defense getting better and better and the special teams rock solid. Maybe JoePa should stay in the press box the rest of the year! This week is all about paying Michigan back for years of anguish...

Purdue - Make it stop. Please, I beg of you. What could have been a good season in West Lafayette is turning into a disaster. Purdue can't move the ball, is spotty on special teams and is having to rely solely on its defense to get by. Northwestern looms, so it might be five losses in six games in a snap.

Wisconsin - Was this team that overrated coming into the season? I'm not sold on that. What I am sold on is that Evridge is in over his head. Wisconsin never wins with flash at QB - it wins with heady play and limited mistakes. Can the Badgers salvage the season? A win over Iowa would start to make amends but I'm not so sure...

Get Gamm - Week Seven
Ladies and gentlemen, we officially have a nice race in the Get Gamm contest. For a change, I prevailed last week, though St. Louis Spartan gave me a run for my money. A couple more toughies on the slate this go around could lead to more separation.

To see the BigTen.org previews, read here. Otherwise, here are my thoughts for the week...

Minnesota at Illinois - This could be one of those "point-a-minute" games. Minnesota truly is improved, not only over last season but even the start of this season. The Gophers are playing some pretty good defense and have a great pitch and catch duo in Weber to Decker. Illinois got back on track last week with a whipping of the Wolverines, in Ann Arbor. While the Illini defense leaves a bit to be desired, Juice Williams is among the best at his position in the nation. Arrelious Benn is a bona fide NFL first round draft pick and the Illini are hungry to get on a roll. It will be closer than last season's 44-16 romp in the Homer Dome, but Illinois prevails. Illinois 38 - Minnesota 30.

Iowa at Indiana - This is a must win situation for both teams. Both are in a three game free fall, though it is easy to see that Iowa's is not nearly as alarming since the Hawkeyes have lost the last three by a combined 9 points, versus the 44 Indiana has lost by. The Hoosiers seem to be trying to redefine themselves, playing Kellen Lewis less and less at QB and more everywhere else on the field. Iowa has its definition - pound with Shon Greene. Look for Greene to have a big day in Bloomington and for Iowa to get back on track, while Indiana continues to falter. Iowa 27 - Indiana 23.

Toledo at Michigan - This is a perfect opponent for a struggling Michigan team. Toledo isn't doing much of anything on the field this year and while Michigan isn't either, the Wolverines have a lot more talent than the Rockets. After this one, the maize and blue have Penn State and Michigan State on successive weeks, so now is a good time to build some confidence and momentum. This is the worst M team I have seen in my lifetime but Toledo will not give them a scare. Michigan 31 - Toledo 10.

Michigan State at Northwestern - One of the more underrated national games of the week. Michigan State is on its first 5-game win streak since 2003. Northwestern is 5-0 for the first time in 46 years. Something's got to give. These teams have played some barn-burners the past few seasons. Last year, the Wildcats got revenge for the largest 1-A comeback in history (MSU's 41-38 win after being down 38-3 in Evanston in 2006) by passing to a 48-41 OT victory in East Lansing. Two main questions exist going into this one. One, can Northwestern stop Javon Ringer? They couldn't last year. Two, can MSU stop CJ Bacher and the NU passing attach? They couldn't last year. Northwestern has a better defense but hasn't exactly played an offensive juggernaut. State struggled in its one game thus far versus a no-huddle, spread offense. Call it homerism, but I'm going with my gut on this one. Michigan State 33 - Northwestern 30 on a last second Swenson field goal.

Purdue at Ohio State - Is this a potential trap game for OSU, coming off a big win in Madison and before a trip to East Lansing, which is followed by a potentially HUGE home game against Penn State? I don't think so. Purdue blew it against Oregon and hasn't been the same since, even with that sweet little comeback over Central Michigan. ND and Penn State made the Boilers look average at best. What will an increasingly confident Buckeye squad do to them? Painter's confidence is shaken and without a sharp C.P., Purdue has no chance. Ohio State 31 - Purdue 17.

Penn State at Wisconsin - Back to back night games in one of the most raucous stadiums around. Did the Badgers lose last weekend because the naughty band was barred from the game? Hey, maybe. On second thought, no. Wisconsin has lost two straight heartbreakers because of the play, or lack of, from the QB position. For years the Badgers offense has been predicated on a great ground game and a signal caller who manages the game and makes few to no mistakes. Evridge has flat out made too many mistakes in the last two games. That cannot happen this week, not with a balanced, strong Nittany Lion squad coming to Mad-town. On one hand I hate to pick against a team with such a home field advantage. On the other, Penn State looks for real to me. Penn State stuns the Badgers late. Penn State 27 - Wisconsin 24.

Wednesday moring QB
It was a more predictable weekend in the Big Ten. Michigan came crashing back to earth as Juice ran wild on the Wolverines. Michigan State and Iowa had a little 80's throw back to smash mouth football going. Minnesota beat IU in a surprisingly low scoring game. Penn State frustrated former Heisman candidate Curtis Painter so much that he was benched. And Ohio State sent a message that they are still the team to beat, ending Wisconsin's 16-game home win streak.

Congrats to St. Louis Spartan for going 5-0 on the weekend, but he didn't shake Gamm (I also went 5-0 and nailed the OSU - WIS score).

To see what BigTen.org has to say about the week that was, click here...

My team by team thoughts and weekly awards follow:

Player of the Week - The Juice was loose this weekend in Ann Arbor, with a record setting performance. He is the most exciting player in the Big Ten (you'll have your time soon enough Pryor) and put up jaw-dropping numbers. See who BigTen.org picked.

Around the Big Ten - it was a much calmer weekend around college football with most ranked teams holding serve. The Big Ten picture is starting to take shape, but there is plenty of football to go...

Illinois - Contrary to the belief of some, this team is not dead. While not likley a Big Ten title contender, the Illini will be towards the top of the heap and have an offense no one will want to face down the stretch. This week an improved Minnesota comes to Champaign in what could be a high scoring affair.

Indiana - The Hoosiers are beaten and battered right now and are in dire need of a win. A wounded Iowa team comes calling this weekend. IU did a great job - for the most part - making MSU's Javon Ringer work hard for his yards and will need to do the same with Shon Greene. Iowa is further along than Indiana though. Indy has to hope they can rebound or last season's success will become a distant memory.

Iowa - Poor Iowa. Three tough - and I mean tough - losses in a row by a combined 9 points. Ouch. The heat might be turning up on Ferentz, but it shouldn't. His team is young and getting better and lost to three teams with a combined two losses. Indiana might be just what the doctor ordered this weekend.

Michigan - Forget that big comeback against Wisconsin, it was a mirage. Michigan's offense is bad. Really bad. The defense is taking risks to make things happen and getting burned. A win over Toledo this Saturday gives them three. M might be hard pressed to find three more wins the rest of the way...

Michigan State - State has made HUGE strides this season in one key area - the ability to hang on/finish a game. It happened again last weekend against Iowa and needs to keep happening in order for the Spartans to prove that they are for real. There are still issues here and there, but the attitude of the program is as good as it has been in years. Northwestern has been a thorn in State's side of late so Saturday will go a long way in determining MSU's fortune.

Minnesota - The Golden Gophers still haven't really beaten anyone all that great - BUT - are 5-1 and on the cusp of a bowl berth a season after getting one measly win. Minny is doing it with a pretty good offense and a surprisingly effective defense. The trip to Illinois won't be fun, but this team is brimming with confidence right now.

Northwestern - The 'cats have had a week to rest and repair in anticipation for a big game with Michigan State. Winner stays firmly in the Big Ten race. Loser is still in good shape overall but takes a step back. NU desperately wants to prove it is for real this year. Stop Javon Ringer and they'll have that chance.

Ohio State - Ohio State looked poised and impressive in the big road win over Wisconsin last weekend. Purdue comes calling this week with nothing to lose. OSU must remain focused as a trip to MSU and a visit from PSU loom in the next few weeks. Pryor's demeanor is incredible for a true freshman signal caller and Beanie Wells is showing us why OSU missed him so much...

Penn State - The Nittany Lions are rolling and looking forward to a chance to prove their Top 6 standing. The trip to Wisconsin to face a wounded Badgers squad fresh off of two heartbreaking losses is as tough as it gets. I like how the defense is catching up to the potent offense. This team reminds me more and more of that 1994 team that should have won at least a share of the national title.

Purdue - Make it stop. Three losses in four games. A trip to C-bus looming. Curtis Painter was even benched last weekend. Purdue can still be a dangerous team but has to snap to or risk a losing season in Joe Tiller's last hurrah.

Wisconsin - Double UGH! Back to back heartbreaking losses have Wisconsin on its heels. From a very real shot at a BCS berth to the spoiler role in a manner of a few minutes of football. The Badgers can still be very good but have to come up big when it matters most. Penn State's visit offers a shot at redemption...

Get Gamm - Week Six
The Get Gamm race tightened a little bit last week and should get really interesting as we enter the mid-point of the season. This might week might well pose the toughest pickings of the season, with several very good contests on the slate. Buckeye AndrewJ1313 earned the right to pick this week, so without further ado...

Penn State at Purdue - Two teams that appear to be heading in different directions meet in West Lafayette at high noon this Saturday. Penn State is rolling in all facets of the game. This is the first decent road test of the year, however, for the Nits and JoePa's crew faces a wounded - and angry - Purdue squad that blew a lead in an OT loss to Oregon, narrowly escaped Central Michigan and then got slapped around last week in South Bend. Do the Boilers fold or come out with a new vigor? Is Penn State looking ahead to three huge weeks in a row (Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio State) or are they focused on the prize? Purdue will put up a fight but Penn State is that good. Penn State 31 - Purdue 27.

AndrewJ1313 says ... Penn St. is the most exciting team in the Big Ten to watch right now. Their offense has thrown traditional out the window and has opened it up. The PSU defense is incredible as well, I'm glad OSU gets them at home and at night this year. That said about Penn St., I have to say that Purdue looks awful right now. I have felt for some time that Joe Tiller needed to move on and I think Boiler fans might feel the same now and are glad this is the last year of settling for mediocrity. The only thing in Purdue's favor in this game is that it is at home, but Penn St. will knock the crowd out of it early: Penn St. 34, Purdue 21

Indiana at Minnesota - Call this one an early bowl elimination game. Yes, Indiana has more work to do at this point than the Gophers but IU also has one more OOC tilt left. The Hoosiers are wounded right now after back-to-back tough home losses to Ball State and Michigan State. This is the first road game and it might be just what the doctor ordered. Minnesota is playing much better football than a year ago and is poised to make the next step. The key is to contain Kellen Lewis, who threw, ran, received ... even punted last week against MSU. If the Gophers can bottle him up, they get the win. I think this is a coin toss, so when in doubt, go with the home team - even if the home team plays in a creaky, stupid, NFL dome! Minnesota 37 - Indiana 34

AndrewJ1313 says ... What a turnaround for Brewster and Minnesota, although the best team they have beaten is BGSU, this is a team that did not quit at Ohio State last week and managed to put up 15 points in the 4th quarter. Indiana on the other hand is a one-man-show and that is really going to be what beats this team this year. Indiana is capable of big plays and Minnesota will allow some. If Lewis gets comfortable, this will be another long day for the Gophers: IU 35, Minnesota 27

Iowa at Michigan State - Another of the very evenly matched games of the week, at least on paper. I am less than convinced that Iowa is really any better offensively than a season ago and the defense has been bending more in recent weeks. Iowa could go one of two ways - think about what might have been the past two weeks and come in flat, or play inspired ball and get back on track. I think it will be somewhere in between. I like Hoyer to make less mistakes than Stanzi, and Ringer to have more impact than Greene. This is game one in a five game stretch against teams that MSU had every chance to beat a season ago. Week one on the revenge tour is a success. Michigan State 24 - Iowa 14.

AndrewJ1313 says ... MSU is playing as good as anyone in the Big Ten right now and may very well have the best defense. MSU will go to Happy Valley to end the season in what might be one of the best games of the year. Iowa on the other hand has disappeared from the college football landscape after several top 10 finishes (how do you lose to Pitt?). MSU at home, no contest: MSU 38, Iowa 17

Illinois at Michigan - You guessed it, another game that seems like a toss-up. Except... I am not convinced that Michigan is back just yet. Yes, they played with abandon and shocked the Big Ten with the improbable comeback win over Wisconsin BUT this same team turned the ball over 5 times with ONE first down in the first half of that game. The Badgers went into turtle mode and the Wolverines rode the wave of momentum. U-M is better than they were a few weeks ago, but how much better? Illinois was stung at Penn State last week and needs a signature win this season. The Illini are 1-9 in the last 10 versus the maize and blue. That changes this week. Juice cuts loose and Illinois brings Michigan back to earth. Illinois 27 - Michigan 21.

AndrewJ1313 says ... I really don't know what to make of either team right now. Illinois' offense looked fabulous against Mizzou to open the season, but their defense is not stopping anyone. Michigan probably had the greatest turn around in NCAA history this past weekend against Wisconsin. UM's defense is clearly their strength right now and that's just what this team's young offense needs. I think Michigan keeps it close at home and finds a way to beat Juice and Zook again (although I do believe this game can go either way): Michigan 28, Illinois 27

Ohio State at Wisconsin - The Game of the Week. Wisconsin is still shell-shocked over the loss to Michigan but gets the friendly confines of Camp Randall this weekend. UW has won 16 in a row at home and this is a tall task for the Pryor-led Buckeyes offense. I think we saw that the Wisconsin passing game is a weakness without a healthy Travis Beckum and while the OSU defense has yet to really play up to its ability, I think a traditional offense plays to the scarlet and gray's strong suit. I'm going to go with Ohio State, mostly because I think this is an either way game and I picked it that way in the preseason. Ohio State 20 - Wisconsin 17.

AndrewJ1313 says ... This has to be the best game in the Big Ten this week if not one of the best in the country. Ohio State is finally starting to find something offensively (nothing against Boeckman, the guy led this team to the Championship game last year, but he has lost something between the first half of last year and now). OSU's defense is starting to play better up front which is allowing the LB's to move around more. Wisconsin is coming off what has to be the worst loss a team could have suffered. Wisconsin settled too much in the first half of last week's game, but still had Michigan down 19-0. Wisconsin and Michigan look like they switched places in the second half. Depending on which Wisconsin team shows up Saturday night will depend on how good of a game this is. In the end, I can't pick against Ohio State, plus I feel they are the better team: OSU 27, Wisconsin 17.

Monday Afternoon QB
It was a wild weekend in college football and the Big Ten was not spared from the chaos. Michigan and Northwestern stormed back from large, early game deficits; Michigan State and Indiana played a crazy game in Bloomington; Penn State looked dominant on a national scene (the white outs at State College NEVER get old); Ohio State is rounding back to form and Purdue took one on the chin.

Congrats to AndrewJ1313 for winning the tiebreaker and Getting Gamm on the weekend.

To see what BigTen.org has to say about the week that was, click here...

My team by team thoughts and weekly awards follow:

Player of the Week - I'd love to make it a quadra-fecta for Javon Ringer but I guess it's time to spread the wealth! I'll go with a guy I saw this weekend - Marcus Thigpen from Indiana. 9 carries for 113 yards and 94 receiving yards on two catches including two long jaunts total for scores. He got dinged up and sat the fourth quarter, otherwise he might have racked up another 80 yards! See who BigTen.org picked.

Around the Big Ten - it was a crazy weekend all around college football, with USC, Georgia, Florida, Wisconsin and others in the Top 25 going down. The Big Ten was no different than the rest...

Illinois - Came out of the gates strong at Penn State but that place is crazy loud. I generally liked what I saw, but this team needs to have a short memory with a roadie to Ann Arbor coming up. Michigan suddenly has life and Illinois needs to be prepared. By the way, Benn is a first rounder in waiting. Man that guy is good.

Indiana - The Hoosiers were amazing, sloppy, inspired and dog tired all at the same time on Saturday. The two QB sets will cause some defensive coordinators to lose sleep the rest of this season. If this team can stay healthy, it will pull off an upset or two, despite the injury bug that has bitten. IU goes to Minnesota this week for a must-win game.

Iowa - The Hawkeyes have now been stung two weeks in a row and the question is - can/will they rebound or fall upon harder times? Something is missing this year but I can't figure it out. It doesn't help that the Hawks head to East Lansing to face a State team looking for revenge for last year's late collapse in Iowa City. A loss this weekend might start the calls for Ferentz's head.

Michigan - What an amazing comeback for Michigan. After one of the worst one half performances I've ever seen of U-M, the Wolverines battled back and caught Wisconsin sleeping, escaping with a huge, confidence building win in the 500th game played at Michigan Stadium. Illinois comes in this week, which means there is little time to celebrate the big win.

Michigan State - Saturday might be the best example to date of the changes MSU has made under Mark Dantonio. The roller coaster ride never got the Spartans too low or too high and it allowed State to plow forward and get a nice road win. Good teams aren't always on their game but find a way to get the W in cases where the A-game was left at home. I won't label MSU "good" yet, but there is potential...

Minnesota - Predictably, Minnesota fell short in its first test of the season but the Gophers did fight all the way through this game. Indiana comes calling for a key game for both in terms of postseason aspirations.

Northwestern - Wow! 5-0 for the first time since 1962 and a week off to rest and prep for a visit from Michigan State. The Wildcats are coming up big at opportune times and have seven chances to get the one win necessary to become bowl eligible. I like their chances!

Ohio State - OSU has found its man in Pryor and now that Wells is back, and the college football world was turned on its ear this past weekend, look for renewed energy from C-bus. This weekend is huge, with a trip to Madison to face wounded and angry Penn State. Look for an instant classic in this one...

Penn State - Penn State is good - really good. The meat of the schedule is upon them but based on the way they took apart a good Illinois team the other night, I am willing to predict great things for this team. They come at you from all angles. Purdue better be ready to stop this juggernaut...

Purdue - Notre Dame laid a b*tch slappin down on Purdue at South Bend this past weekend. This one might hurt worse than the Oregon game long-term. Purdue was exposed for its lack of run-stopping ability by a team that managed just 16 yards at Michigan State. The same MSU defense that gave up 113 yards on just 9 carries to ONE IU tailback. Penn State is next and suddenly the Joe Tiller swan song tour has hit a BIG snag.

Wisconsin - Despite the performance of Purdue, the biggest loser of the week resides in Mad-town. To lose a 19-point lead on the road against a team doing NOTHING with the ball is unspeakable. To have your star tight end make a crucial mistake on what would have put the game into OT is almost as bad. Wisconsin still has the potential to come out atop the Big Ten but there is no time to cry. Ohio State and Penn State come to Camp-Randall on back to back Saturday's. Can The Badgers bounce back?

Get Gamm - Week Five...
After an unplanned week off, Get Gamm is back and giving full due to Dan Meyer - the king of Getting Gamm year to date.

Big Ten play finally kicks off this weekend with a few nice matchups and also an OOC tilt to keep an eye on. One week doesn't mean much in the end, but no one wants to start conference play on the wrong end of the standings.

Michigan State at Indiana - Michigan State is playing old-fashioned, smash mouth football. Indiana is reeling from a bad home loss to a good Ball State team and the injuries are piling up for a defense that can ill afford them. Javon Ringer can't go three straight with over 200 yards - can he? He broke 200 against the same Hoosiers team last year, so don't bet against it. Kellen Lewis is everything for IU and that's the problem. While the Hoosiers will come out inspired early, the State offensive front will "pound green pound" and wear down an undermanned IU defense. Michigan State 45 - Indiana 21.

Dan says ... MICHIGAN STATE 35 at Indiana 20 - Another strong start in East Lansing as Sparty goes to 4-1. Hope there are no "Dante Love" type injuries in this game. Not yet sold on the Hoosiers against bowl-caliber competition.

Minnesota at Ohio State - Minnesota is a much better football team this year than last, but we're still talking about a team that has played virtually no one thus far (except BGSU). Ohio State isn't exactly tearing it up right now but made a wise move in naming Pryor the starter. He brings so much to the table it isn't even fair! The Gophers will put up a fight, but not for long enough. Ohio State 31 - Minnesota 10.

Dan says ... Minnesota 10 at OHIO STATE 27 - Gophers have improved, Buckeyes appear to have dropped off from last year. This said, Scarlet and Gray still are markedly better than Maroon and Gold, especially at the Shoe. Wonder whether Pryor or Boeckman starts at QB?

Northwestern at Iowa - Probably the most underrated game of the day in the Big Ten. Iowa got stung on the road at Pittsburgh and still isn't firing on all cylinders offensively. Northwestern is 4-0 for the first time since 1962 and looking to hit 5-0. In a game where one team is markedly better on offense, I might lean that way. But I like Iowa's defense better at home than NU's O on the road. Iowa 24 - Northwestern 23.

Dan says ... Northwestern 17 at IOWA 20 - One of the weeks toughest games to pick, as both teams have been somewhat better than expected in the noncon games. When in doubt, pick the home team.

Purdue at Notre Dame - Hmm, this is a bit of a toss up for me. On one hand, I saw how State dominated Notre Dame from start to finish last weekend. On the other, I saw Purdue blow a big lead against Oregon and nearly lose at home to a good, but still MAC Central Michigan team. If Purdue can run the ball and pound Sheets, the Boilers will send South Bend into a tizzy. If Notre Dame goes down the field with the ball, the Irish can get a much-needed win. I think this is a toss up. In a toss up, I like the home team. But really not by much and frankly, I hope I'm wrong! Notre Dame 23 - Purdue 20.

Dan says ... PURDUE 24 at Notre Dame 21 - BIASED PICK!! Going against my advice in the NU-IA game and picking the Boilers with my heart here. If Painter is ever going to get it together this year, this game would be a darn good time.

Wisconsin at Michigan - Michigan has the benefit of a bye week... but oh, wait, so does Wisconsin. The Badgers are simply a better team. Michigan started to move the ball better against Notre Dame but Wisconsin is far better than Notre Dame. The saving grace may be the home field advantage. Look for some new wrinkles from RichRod and Co. but in the end Wisconsin prevails. Wisconsin 27 - Michigan 17.

Dan says ... WISCONSIN 21 at Michigan 14 - A bye week should help the Maize and Gold with the spread learning curve, thus the Badgers get more of a battle than some might expect. Nevertheless, Bucky Badger starts a strong run at the Big Ten with a rare win at the "Big House."

Illinois at Penn State - The big game of the week. How good is Illinois? I'm not sold yet. How good is Penn State? Well, the Nits crushed Oregon State who last night pulled off the upset of the season. Is it apples to apples? Hard to say, but I love Penn State's offense against an Illinois defense that got pushed all over the field by Missouri. Penn State 31 - Illinois 23.

Dan says ... Illinois 17 at PENN STATE 21 - PSU has DOMINATED four teams, but none nearly as good as the Illini. I think that the home team prevails, but they better not take Zook and Company lightly.

Monday Morning QB...
First thing's first - hat's off to Dan "The Machine" Meyer. He went 8-0 last week and is 36-3 on the year with three wins in four weeks. You're more fine-tuned than your Boilers my friend!

Second on the hot list - Javon Ringer. Dude just became the first player to ever share/win three straight B10 Offensive POtW honors and only the second one period. His pace can't continue, but let's do the math: 2097 yards, 33 TDs and plenty of honors await if he can continue on this path. Amazing!

Third on the list... hmm, so Charlie Weis says the illegal laptop in his coach's box was a mistake and not meant to do any harm. This coming from a guy who helped his boss (Bill Belichick) cheat for years in New England. I'm not sayin' ... I'm just sayin' ...

Sorry I bailed on my own home page picks last week... my dad went to the hospital Friday with what they thought could be a stroke or TIA or heart attack. Turns out he had Transient Global Amnesia. Strange, but he's back to normal - for him - so I am as well!

Team by team:
Wisconsin - Da Badgers got a week off to prepare for a tough trio of Big Ten games, starting with a trip to Michigan. While Michigan is down, they are not out and also had a week to prepare. Look for a very good game in AA this weekend.

Purdue - The Boilers used a little shake and bake by Kory Sheets to stave off CMU yet again. ND is next and trust me, they're pissed after getting pounded at State. A win here will go a long way for either team. Purdue must play better.

Penn State - Things finally get tougher for the Nits with Illinois coming to town. The Illini had a week off and are ready to give Penn State a game. This is one of the better games on the slate around the nation this weekend. The question is, can PSU avoid more suspensions?

Ohio State - Welcome to the Pryor show. Troy was the perfect first start for him and now a much-improved Minnesota team rolls into Columbus. OSU is still not firing on all cylinders which could be good or bad for the Gophers. My thinking? It'll be bad as the Bucks are bound to put it all together sooner rather than later.

Northwestern - Don't look now but the 'cats are 4-0. NU takes to the road to battle a wounded Iowa squad in what amounts to a very critical early season game in terms of bowl position. Pay attention, the Wildcats are going to upset someone this year.

Minnesota - See Northwestern above. While I don't like this team as much as I potentially like NU, the Gophers are vastly better than last season. Six wins may still be tough to come by but this team is playing solid football right now.

Michigan State - Perles ball. That's what's being played in E.L. these days. And as a Spartan fan who once lamented that style, I'm loving every minute of it right now. As long as Ringer stays healthy, it is going to work. The passing game must get better but rather than blame Hoyer, I'm focusing on the five drops by receivers. State will be ready for IU - a team Ringer ran all over a season ago.

Michigan - Rich Rod has had a week to prep for the Badgers. He'll unveil something new and this offense, which has started to move the ball well, will be prepared. The question is, will the defense step up? Turnovers have to stop if Michigan wants to get a win against what might just be the best of the Big Ten.

Iowa - The Hawkeyes got stung on the road last weekend but have no time to hang heads. A hungry Northwestern team awaits as does a road trip to East Lansing. Will Iowa rebound? Only if it gets consistent play at QB.

Indiana - The Hoosiers took a big hit to the chops in a big loss at home to Ball State. Ball State is a very good MAC team but this can't bode well heading into the Big Ten. Too much of IU's offense relies on Kellen Lewis. All he doesn't do is catch his own passes. It doesn't get any easier with MSU coming to Bloomington this weekend.

Illinois - First real test since the Mizzou game. Is this a very good or very average Illinois team? We'll find out in Happy Valley this weekend.

Tuesday Morning QB
Three weeks are already in the books and the Big Ten has had its share of ups and downs. There has been good, bad and ugly all around. Dan Meyer won the tiebreaker this week so he's picking the games up front with yours truly. Dan, email me at andy_gamm@hotmail.com by Friday.

To see what BigTen.org has to say about the week that was, click here...

My team by team thoughts and weekly awards follow:

Player of the Week - Javon Ringer, Michigan State. Ringer set a career record in carries and yards and added to his nation's best touchdown tally. The senior bullied for 282 yards on 43 carries and tallied two scores (9 on the season) in Michigan State's wet and wild win over FAU.

Around the Big Ten - there were good things - and bad - in the conference last week. Three teams (Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin) get a week off before conference play ensues, and that's a good thing for at least one of them (Michigan).

Illinois - As I watched the end of this one, I had visions of Michigan State - Louisiana Tech dancing through my head. The Illini should have dominated but almost got caught sleep walking. A win is a win, but a lot has to improve between now and the date with Penn State on 9/27.

Indiana - The Hoosiers got a week off to prepare for a good Ball State team. This game is bigger than one might think, mostly because IU can use every win it can get in order to make back-to-back bowl games.

Iowa - The Hawkeyes finally took back the CyHawk Trophy although it was an ugly process. Just when Coach Ferentz thought he had a QB, there was regression and now it is off to Pittsburgh to play a Panthers team that is hungry for a nice win.

Michigan - Yep, the Wolverines out-gained Notre Dame. Yep, there were flashes of what might be in store. But the bottom line? Michigan turned the ball over 6 times. 6 times! There is a week to circle the wagons before two tough Big Ten games in a row - Wisconsin and Illinois.

Michigan State - Saturday's win happened in what I have to say are among the worst, sloppiest conditions I've ever seen. Still, somehow the Spartans pitched their first shutout in 9 seasons and are nice and confident heading into a key battle with rival Notre Dame.

Minnesota - Montana State put up more of a fight than they should have but when push comes to shove, the Gophers have three wins and are building some confidence and momentum. Watch out for FAU this week though. The Owls will look a lot different in temperate, dry conditions than they did in East Lansing.

Northwestern - Hey, hey another team I picked low in the league is 3-0. NU has yet to be tested and this week isn't much different (Ohio). But hey, 4-0 to start means a sub-par conference season still leads to a bowl...

Ohio State - Ouch. Ugly. Let the critics unleash. OSU faced another big game in the face and flushed a chance to change the tide down the toilet. This is still the class of the Big Ten, but that scares me given the way USC manhandled this team. My take? Go with Pryor at QB and take your chances.

Penn State - Okay, so Syracuse, well, SUCKS. So does every team the Nits have faced thus far but man to this point, the offense is reminiscent of the 1993 juggernaut. One more glorified scrimmage to go until we really start to see how good PSU is.

Purdue - This one really hurts. Purdue had this game - and national respectability - in its grasp and it went wide left - twice. This could have been the spring board that the Boilers were seeking to catapult them into the Big Ten title conversation but nope. Let's see how they rebound with a tricky Central Michigan squad coming to town.

Wisconsin - A very nice, solid win that no one outside of Wisconsin probably witnessed this past weekend. Now there is a week to recoup and get ready for a mega stretch of conference games, starting with a trip to Michigan.

Get Gamm - Week Three
Are you ready for some football? It's rainy and nasty here in Michigan, but that makes it even better for crashing on the couch all day Saturday - a day full of great games around the Big Ten and the nation.

Myself? I'd normally be braving the rain to watch my alma mater take the field, but rocket football calls so I'll be watching in HD on a 50 inch plasma, trust me - the next best thing to being there!

We could finally see some separation in the standings this week with all the touch matchups. Click here to see the BigTen.org picks.

Florida Atlantic at Michigan State
Gamm says ... FAU is talking a little smack this week. Michigan State is all business. I think the Owls will move the ball but not be able to translate that into points. Javon Ringer might well go for another 5 scores this week, though I suspect a nice, balanced attack. Michigan State 41 - FAU 20.

Dan says ... MSU 38 - FAU 14

Louisiana-Lafayette at Illinois
Gamm says ... In a world of parity, nothing is a gimme. And the way Illinois is playing defense right now, or not playing defense, that's the case here too. Could be rainy but as long as Juice Williams is on his A-game, no way the Illini lose. Illinois 47 - Louisiana-Lafayette 21

Dan says ... Illinois 42 - Louisiana-Lafayette 10

Montana State at Minnesota
Gamm says ... This isn't worth much of my time, though Minnesota has lost to teams like this before. However, after the crushing road win over a good BGSU squad last week, a loss here doesn't seem likely. Minnesota 37 - Montana State 13.

Dan says ... Minnesota 41 - Montana State 16

Southern Illinois at Northwestern
Gamm says ... Northwestern avoided an ugly loss last week at Duke and while SIU is decent, NU should get this win. I like the potential for balance with the Wildcats. Cats beat the dogs. Northwestern 30 - SIU 20.

Dan says ... Northwestern 34 - SIU 21

Iowa State at Iowa
Gamm says ... The Cyclones have been regular winners of the Cy-Hawk a lot over the last 10 games (7 of 10) but Iowa seems to be hitting a stride with a new QB at the helm. This is always a good game and this will be no different. Iowa squeaks one out. Iowa 24 - Iowa State 20.

Dan says ... Iowa 21 - Iowa State 17

Oregon at Purdue
Gamm says ... I picked Purdue in my preseason predictions but I'm not so sure the Boilers can slow the Ducks down enough to get the win. If it rains, as expected, that evens it out a little. It will be a great battle, a lot overshadowed by the other good games in conference this weekend. Oregon 27 - Purdue 23.

may0170 says ... A couple of potent offenses meet in what should be a great game. I really want to go with the home team here, but my gut tells me that Oregon is going to have the better defense between the two. This one is going to be close, but the Ducks quack louder than the steam whistle this week, Oregon 38, Purdue 31.

Penn State at Syracuse
Gamm says ... Yawn. Penn State is rolling everyone and Syracuse might not be in Coastal Carolina's league. The only way this is a game is if the Nits spot the Orange a three TD lead. Penn State 52 - Syracuse 9.

mayo170 says ... IF this is Joe Paterno’s last season, what a great way to go out, Coastal Carolina, Oregon State, Syracuse, and Temple…there’s a murderer’s row. This will be a blowout extraordinaire, Penn State 54, Syracuse 20.

Michigan at Notre Dame
Gamm says ... First one to score wins. Seriously. These might be the two worst big time D1 offenses in the country. Not your typical, historic battle for supremacy. Michigan 10 - Notre Dame 9.

mayo170 says ... While this is a great rivalry, this is not going to be a very great game to watch. Two pretty bad offenses and a couple of decent defenses. Either defense or special teams is going to win this one and since it’s in South Bend, it’s going to be close and Michigan doesn’t look like the kind of team that is going to win many close games this year. Notre Dame 24, Michigan 21

Ohio State at USC
Gamm says ... No one, and I mean NO ONE is giving the Bucknuts a prayer in this one. Yes USC plays at home, has had an extra week to prepare, etc. However, Ohio State is good. They haven't played to potential, but the Buckeyes can win this game. Will they? Maybe not, but it will not be the slam dunk the pundits are predicting. USC 27 - Ohio State 24.

mayo170 says ... I HOPE this game lives up to all the hype. If it’s as good as Michigan-Ohio State in 2006 or Texas-Ohio State from a few years ago, it will be worth it. The good news is that Beanie is back and although this is a biased pick from a Midwesterner, I really like Ohio State in this one for the sheer fact that they have so many weapons on both sides of the ball and want to prove that last week was a fluke. Ohio State 27, USC 23.

Wisconsin at Fresno State
Gamm says ... In many other weeks, this would be the best OOC game in the Big Ten. Fresno is tough with its we take on all comers stance. Wisconsin gets a nice early test. This game might become an instant classic. I want to see the Badgers get the W, but I'm not sure the west coast trip will be as fruitful as the boys in red are hoping. Fresno State 23 - Wisconsin 20.

mayo170 says ... This game looks to be a trap for Wisconsin. If they play like they are capable, no contest, Wisconsin winds hands down. Fresno is a pretty tough team to play regardless of where they play. Fresno was impressive going across the continent to play Rutgers, and Wisconsin will be prepared, but I have a bad feeling that Bielema’s Badgers might hit a bump here. Fresno State 26, Wisconsin 19.

Tiebreaker is WISCONSIN - FRESNO STATE

Tuesday afternoon Quarterback...

Not much time to look back and frankly, not much to talk about. Michigan struggled - again. Ohio State struggled? Hmmm, how does that bode for this weekend? Minnesota is either a lot better than we thought, or Pittsburgh really sucks. Everyone else looked the part for the weekend.

Ordinarily, I'd get into who's hot and not, players of the week, etc. but I just don't have the time!

So, let's get to Get Gamm. mayo170 was a perfect 11-0 this past week so he'll be picking the SECOND half of the games listed below. Dan Meyer won week two and will pick the top half. Sometime before Friday, please and thank you.

Florida Atlantic at Michigan State
Louisiana-Lafayette at Illinois
Montana State at Minnesota
Southern Illinois at Northwestern
Iowa State at Iowa
Oregon at Purdue
Penn State at Syracuse
Michigan at Notre Dame
Ohio State at USC
Wisconsin at Fresno State

Get Gamm - Week Two

Hard to believe it's almost Saturday. Told you I've been busy. I've had football thoughts swirling my head all week but no time to share! Predictably, last week was a pretty even week for picking the games. Dan was closest on the Mizzou - Illinois tiebreaker and holds the lead. If I can catch my breath, Dan and this week's winner will spilt the games next week and predict on the blog.

For now, here are the games and my quick thoughts as well as the predictions from BigTen.org. Picks are due by kick of the first game.

Eastern Illinois at Illinois - The Illini offense was on full display last week, especially through the air. Problem is, the defense was more full of holes than Swiss cheese! Redemption this week, albeit against a far inferior foe. Illinois 45 - EIU 17

Murray State at Indiana - Indiana never really put Western Kentucky away last week but it wasn't Kellen Lewis' fault. He was almost as amazing as Juice Williams. Indiana needs to find a runner other than Lewis, games like this help. Indiana 38 - Murray State 7

Florida International at Iowa - Iowa looked strong last week against Maine, and while FIU won't pose a threat, it'll be a progressively tougher test. Iowa should cruise easily. Iowa 34 - FIU 13

Miami-OH at Michigan - The Red Hawks might be just what the doctor ordered for Michigan. The Wolverines struggled offensively against Utah and the defense didn't come to play until the second half. This should be a much easier game for RichRod and the maize and blue, but we'll see if the improvements are enough to satisfy expectant Michigan fans. Michigan 31 - Miami-OH 9

Eastern Michigan at Michigan State - Eastern Michigan is an improved football team. Michigan State is young and coming off its seventh loss in two seasons of 7 points or less. Are the Spartans mature enough to jam the throttle to the floor and not let up? Look for much more out of the ground game from Ringer and company and while EMU might hang for a half, they'll wear down late. Michigan State 40 - Eastern Michigan 16.

Minnesota at Bowling Green - Okay, I picked this one before the season and after BGSU's beating of Pitt, at Pitt last week, and the Gophers' struggle with middle-tier MAC squad Northern Illinois, I feel even more confident. Minnesota is getting better, and is gutsy to hit the road, but they'll wish they hadn't with this one. Bowling Green makes it 2-fer over BCS foes. BGSU 30 - Minnesota 23.

Northwestern at Duke - Ah the battle of the intellectuals! A horrid Duke team beat NU in Evanston last season, with Hurricane Hanna approaching, and conditions looking to be dismal, can they do the same? Paybacks are hell. Northwestern 27 - Duke 17.

Ohio at Ohio State - Chump two in the warm-up campaign for the trek to Southern Cal. Ohio State looked awfully good last week but will see how it can run without Beanie Wells. Look for Pryor to get more time and for the Bucks to roll. Ohio State 41 - Ohio 10.

Oregon State at Penn State - Perhaps the only decent match-up on the slate. Penn State suspended three for this game but the Beavers come cross-country after a rough loss to Stanford last week. It'll be a game most of the way, but Penn State is too good to lose this one at Beaver Stadium. Penn State 33 - Oregon State 17.

Northern Colorado at Purdue - The Boilers got their bye in week one and have to be chomping at the bit to hit someone else. Painter should have a field day. Purdue rolls. Purdue 48 - Northern Colorado 14.

Marshall at Wisconsin - Not a bad test for the home field dominant Badgers but not a test a la Michigan/Utah, Illinois/Missouri or Michigan State/Cal either. Step up from the Zips who played UW tough. Wisconsin 35 - Marshall 17.

Get Gamm - Week One

In the blink of an eye, summer is gone and college football season is upon us. The only bad news is that the crooked sticks will soon give way to shovels and snow blowers. But, rather than mope about it, let's just fire up another season of Get Gamm. I've been busier than ever the past six months, but I will get the games up here weekly. Sometimes I might not have much commentary, but that's life - right?

Without further ado...

Akron at Wisconsin - The Big Ten is usually full of these MAC match-ups in week one, but this is one of just two. Wisconsin has some questions and Akron is decent, but the Badgers don't lose games like this at home. Wisconsin 38 - Akron 13.

Coastal Carolina at Penn State - Not even worth my time. A glorified scrimmage. Penn State 48 - CC 7.

Maine at Iowa - Ferentz gets to go against an old employer. A good warm up for Iowa. Iowa 30 - Maine 6.

Syracuse at Northwestern - One of the better games in the Big Ten this weekend. I like the 'cats to be able to score, and score often. Northwestern 42 - Syracuse 37.

Western Kentucky at Indiana - see Coastal Carolina at Penn State! Indiana 41 - WKU 17.

Youngstown State at Ohio State - um, see ... never mind, you get the idea. Ohio State 52 - YSU 3.

Utah at Michigan - this will be a real test for Michigan. Some how, some way, the maize and blue get it done. Michigan 24 - Utah 23.

Northern Illinois at Minnesota - can the Gophers make progress? This is a must win, right out of the gate. Minnesota 31 - NIU 17.

Illinois vs. Missouri - great game of the week part 1. I picked Illinois to win this in my preview, but can they overcome the loss of Mendenhall? Illinois 34 - Mizzou 31.

Michigan State at Cal - great game part 2. Best opening road test for the Spartans in years. Questions in the air on both sides. I like Michigan State to be good this year, but this is a tall task. Cal 27 - Michigan State 23.

Big Ten Football Previews - Part VIII - XI

Editor's Note: These are the last four in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Due to a lack of time, these are abbreviated - no breakdowns, just the basics. Next up? GET GAMM! Want to play, pick all the winners on the comments section. Schedule available here...

Team: Michigan State Spartans


Past Predictions/Results:
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, 5 defense, 2 kickers

2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (loss at California)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin and Purdue)
8-4 Overall, T-2nd - Outback Bowl berth


Team: Illinois Fighting Illini

Past Predictions/Results:
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: 7 offense, 7 defense, 1 kicker

2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (big win over Mizzou)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Minnesota, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa & Northwestern)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd - Capital One Bowl berth


Team: Penn State Nittany Lions

Past Predictions/Results:
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, 7 defense, 2 kickers

2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (no real tests here)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan State)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd, BCS Bowl Berth (JoePa's last hurrah)

Team: Ohio State Buckeyes

Past Predictions/Results:
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, 9 defense, 2 kickers

2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (tough loss at USC)
8-0 Big Ten (no one will get in the way, let along put up much of a fight)
11-1 Overall, 1st - BCS Title Game berth - third time is the charm

Big Ten Football Previews – Part VII

Editor's Note: This is the seventh in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...

Team: Wisconsin Badgers

Tidbits … Coach Bret Bielema's 21-5 two season record is tied for the second best start in conference history (Jim Tressel went 21-5 as well). The Badgers are the first team ever to draw Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State - in succession - to start league play.

Past Predictions/Results:
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)

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

Returning Starters: 8 offense, 9 defense

Key Returnees: RB P.J. Hill, TE Travis Beckum, OL Kraig Urbik, DE Matt Shaughnessy, LB Jonathan Casillas, CB Aaron Henry

Key Losses: QB Tyler Donovan, WR Luke Swan, WR Paul Hubbard, DT Nick Hayden, CB Jack Ikegwuonu, P Kenny DeBauche, PK Tyler Mehlhaff

Looking Back ... Wisconsin got off to a tremendous start in 2007, winning five straight before back to back road setbacks. For that matter, after the two slip-ups, the Badgers won four of five before a disappointing loss in the Outback Bowl. Despite the nine wins, it was seen as a disappointing season in Madison. A far cry from any era pre Barry Alvarez for certain. Wisconsin had its share of ups and downs but continues to be a mainstay among the top of the league. Post season interviews with all returning players turned up a common theme - disappointment in the way the season went when expectations were running high. A far cry from the days when Camp Randall was perhaps the easiest place to play in the conference...

Outlook - Offense ... Is there a team around the country returning as many offensive starters (8) that is as uncertain about what to expect as Wisconsin? Tyler Donovan may not have been spectacular, but he certainly was serviceable - a heady leader that provided the team with a spark when called upon. Now that he's gone, questions abound. Transfer Allan Evridge was thought to be a guy who might win the job last season, but that never happened. Between he and Dustin Sherer, someone needs to take the bull by the horns. The backfield is as loaded as any in the nation, led by P.J. Hill. Hill needs to get better at avoiding the big hits, though, in order to stay healthy and on the field. The Badger front five is always good, so no worries there. Tight end Travis Beckum is a phenom and will have to carry the load for a young, albeit talented receiving corps. It all rests on the QB. If Evridge or Sherer can take the reigns and provide steady play, the sky is the limit. The problem? Right now that appears to be a big IF.

Outlook - Defense ... Wisconsin returns a load of defenders but this group gave up a load of points at times last season. A load of those players also spent the spring on the shelf. With injury questions still looming large, there are some concerns here. The good news is, those that return are experienced and can make big plays. Three seniors return up front, a pair of seniors and a junior make up the linebacker level and the secondary should be good albeit a little less experienced. Matt Shaughnessy, Jonathan Casillas and Shane Carter lead this defense with the ability to make big plays from defensive end, linebacker and free safety respectively. If this defense can patch up the injuries and avoid a stretch like last season, the sky is also the limit. In fact, if it all comes together, last year's prediction will be more likely than this year's...

Outlook - Special Teams ... It seemed like DeBauche and Mehlhaff were in the cardinal and white of Wisconsin forever. Not so this year and the departure of the pair leaves a noticeable gap in the special teams area. The return game should be strong, with plenty of quick athletes available to make plays, but the development of consistent, reliable kickers could spell the difference between games won or lost...

Schedule:
8/30 - AKRON
9/6 - MARSHALL
9/13 - at Fresno State
9/27 - at Michigan
10/4 - OHIO STATE
10/11 - PENN STATE
10/18 - at Iowa
10/25 - ILLINOIS
11/1 - at Michigan State
11/8 - at Indiana
11/15 - MINNESOTA
11/22 - CAL-POLY

Key Games:
9/13 - at Fresno State, 9/27 - at Michigan, 10/4 - Ohio State, 10/11 - Penn State, 11/15 - Minnesota

Prediction ... No secret here - the Badgers have potential - A LOT of potential, but I have plenty of questions and concerns as well. The gauntlet run of Michigan, OSU and PSU is huge, though Michigan is down and the latter two are at home. The back end of the schedule - after a tricky trip to East Lansing - is cupcake city. If the pieces and parts all come together and don't fall apart due to the injury bug, I'll eat my words. But for now, I'm going with the prediction I seem to make most every year with this team...

OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Fresno State, the other three? Who called Minny for scheduling help?)
B10: 5-3 (wins over Michigan, Penn State, Iowa, Indiana and Minnesota)
Overall: 8-4, T-2nd in the conference, Alamo Bowl

Big Ten Football Previews – Part VI

Editor's Note: This is the sixth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...

Team: Purdue Boilermakers

Tidbits … This is Coach Joe Tiller's last hurrah with the old gold and black. When he came aboard, Purdue was mired in a stretch of 12 straight losing seasons. Go bowling in 2008 and that will make 11 of 12 with bowl berths for Purdue. Curtis Painter could become the Big Ten's all time leading passer this season.

Past Predictions/Results:
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

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

Returning Starters: 6 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker

Key Returnees: QB Curtis Painter, WR Greg Orton, RB Kory Sheets, RB Jaycen Taylor, DT Alex Magee, LB Anthony Heygood, S Brandon King

Key Losses: WR Dorien Bryant, TE Dustin Keller, G Jordan Grimes, C Robbie Powell, DE Cliff Avril, LB Stanford Keglar

Looking Back ... 2007 got off to a rip-roarin' start in West Lafayette but once the big boys came calling, the Ls start to pile up. Purdue was torrid in September but that was against but one team that ended up with a winning D1 record (Central Michigan). Curtis Painter improved by leaps and bounds between his sophomore and junior campaigns and got himself into the preseason Heisman conversations heading into 2008. Despite only two wins in its last seven regular season games, Purdue backed into a bowl and got a second win over a CMU team that was much better the second time around. Will that momentum carry into 2008, particularly with Joe Tiller on the way out? Time will tell...

Outlook - Offense ... While some of the top performers of a very potent offensive attack return, Curtis Painter and company have some things to prove. A year ago, only one win came against a team with a winning record at the D1 level - that was CMU, twice. The good news is, Kyle Orton and his 125 grabs over the past two seasons returns. The one-two punch of Taylor and Sheets is back. The bad news? There isn't anyone else with appreciable experience at the wide out position. The offensive line is in decent shape but has to replace two mainstays. It should be a record breaking season for Painter, but it is going to take some big wins for Painter to be mentioned in the same breath as Drew Brees and maybe even Kyle Orton. The OOC slate is much more difficult and a third game versus CMU in the last 13 might prove to be the toughest yet. Purdue will need to be firing on all cylinders if it hopes to send Tiller out a big winner...

Outlook - Defense ... There is little doubt that the offense will pull its weight this fall in West Lafayette. But what about the defense? There are some play-makers but depth is a big question at defensive end and linebacker and will the myriad players coming back from serious injury hold up over the long season? If it become a battle to outscore, Purdue will not have the season it hopes for. The good news is that six starters return and a few guys, like Torri Williams, offer hope that a return to form could mean big things for this defense. Look for the Boilers to be tough up the gut, with four solid defensive tackles in the rotation. If Purdue's secondary can stay healthy and the linebacking corps can find help for Keglar, the defense has the potential to be good if not quite good. The defense will spell the difference between middle of the pack and upper tier finish...

Outlook - Special Teams ... Chris Summers is the lone returning special teamer and comes off of a very solid sophomore campaign. Purdue is faced with replacing its punter but the most critical replacement is of Dorien Bryant. Bryant could flat out fly and was a tremendous weapon over his career. Replacing him will be almost as critical to Purdue's success as the development of the defense...

Schedule:
9/6 - NORTHERN COLORADO
9/13 - OREGON
9/20 - CENTRAL MICHIGAN
9/27 - at Notre Dame
10/4 - PENN STATE
10/11 - at Ohio State
10/18 - at Northwestern
10/25 - MINNESOTA
11/1 - MICHIGAN
11/8 - at Michigan State
11/15 - at Iowa
11/22 - INDIANA

Key Games:
9/13 - Oregon, 9/27 - at Notre Dame, 10/4 - Penn State, 10/11 - at Ohio State, 11/8 - at Michigan State, 11/22 - Indiana

Prediction ... Okay, I've been pretty consistent with my predictions when it comes to Purdue so let's see what happens this go around. The non conference slate is MUCH tougher than a season ago and the trip to Columbus will be no picnic. Purdue does get Penn State and Michigan at home and misses Wisconsin, but there are very few "sure things" on the table. It will be critical to get off to a good start with early wins to build momentum - though come to think of it, that didn't help much last year. It will be another winning season in W.L. but there will be plenty of "we could, shoulda, woulda done better" talk yet again...

OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Notre Dame, though Oregon and CMU are no picnic)
B10: 4-4 (wins over Penn State, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana)
Overall: 7-5, 6th in the conference, Insight Bowl

Big Ten Football Previews – Part V

Editor's Note: This is the fifth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...

Team: Michigan Wolverines

Tidbits … The last losing season in Ann Arbor was 1967. The last time the maize and blue failed to go bowling was 1975. Rich Rodriguez is the first coach to lead Michigan without previous ties to the program in 39 years (Bo Schembechler, 1969).

Past Predictions/Results:
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)

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

Returning Starters: 3 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers

Key Returnees: WR Greg Mathews, RB Brandon Minor, OT Stephen Schilling, DT Terrance Taylor, DE Brandon Graham, LB Obi Ezeh, CB Morgan Trent

Key Losses: QB Chad Henne, WR Mario Mannigham, RB Mike Hart, OT Jake Long, LB Shawn Crable, S Jamar Adams

Looking Back ... 2007 marked the end of an era in Ann Arbor. Michigan fans and the media alike wondered aloud for a few years when Carr's time would come and the Wolverines would push away from 40 years of success under Bo Schembechler and his students. Well, they got what they wished for in a turmoil filled hiring that may have brought in the best, young(ish) football mind in the business. Still, 2007 left a little to be desired, with back to back losses to start the season - including what some will say is the biggest upset since the Miracle on Ice - Appalachian State's stunning win in the Big House. It also ended with another loss to Tressel's hated Buckeyes with a nice win over Florida the saving grace.

Outlook - Offense ... Hands down, the biggest question mark heading into this season. No doubt, Rodriguez will bring a style that thrills but there is one little problem this season - who can run the offense the way it is designed to be run? Not only is Henne gone, the only other quarterback with appreciable - albeit non applicable - experience (Ryan Mallett) has transferred. Also departed are standout WRs Mario Mannigham and Adrian Arrington. Toss in the loss of number one NFL pick Jake Long and heart and soul Mike Hart, and you can see why Michigan might struggle at times this fall. Steven Threat is the likely leader of the offense and Brandon Minor will get some spotlight, as will an always talented bunch of receivers. The key will be Threat and the offensive line. Look for struggles early but for the team to round into shape by seasons end.

Outlook - Defense ... The old adage that defense wins games will have to be true in Ann Arbor this season. With eight starters returning, including a veteran front four and a rock solid secondary, the defense just might be the Wolverines' ticket to the top this season. Taylor and Johnson are space eaters inside while Jamison and Graham have the ability to get after the quarterback. Obi Ezeh is the lone returning starter at linebacker but he's about as good as they get in the Big Ten. Michigan's style will be attack-attack-attack and the success of the team overall depends almost entirely on the defense for at least the first quarter of the season. Is this D up to the task? It might be and it might make my prediction way off base...

Outlook - Special Teams ... Michigan's kicking game looks to be in good shape heading into fall camp, but your guess is as good as mine as to who will handle the return duties. No worries here though, with the athletes Rodriguez brought in with his first class, there is bound to be at least one game breaker.

Schedule:
8/30 - UTAH
9/6 - MIAMI-OH
9/13 - at Notre Dame
9/27 - WISCONSIN
10/4 - ILLINOIS
10/11 - TOLEDO
10/18 - at Penn State
10/25 - MICHIGAN STATE
11/1 - at Purdue
11/8 - at Minnesota
11/15 - NORTHWESTERN
11/22 - at Ohio State

Key Games:
9/13 - at Notre Dame, 9/27 - Wisconsin, 10/18 - at Penn State, 10/25 - Michigan State, 11/22 - at Ohio State

Prediction ... I can hear the "what the ...'s" flying already but I am not telling anyone anything shocking. Michigan is in a rebuilding mode. It might well last only one year or less than this entire season, but if ever the maize and blue are ripe for the picking, the time is now. Michigan will not get trampled this year, but until the offense can catch up with the defense, it might be a struggle at times. No worries, Wolverine fans, this temporary downturn will long-term produce a team that is entertaining to watch and nearly impossible to beat. Don't sleep on the first two games - neither is as easy as they look. But it will be more in the league that Michigan takes a few lumps...

OOC: 4-0 (I don't buy that ND is back and Michigan will be fired up for the opener - a potential trap otherwise)
B10: 3-5 (wins over Illinois, Minnesota and Northwestern)
Overall: 7-5, T-7th in the conference, Champs Sports Bowl