Each week of the 2009 college football season, I will be examining all the games that a Big Ten team plays in. All kickoff times are ET and all poll numbers are from the BCS rankings as provided by ESPN. All records are for conference play only. Week Eight is as follows:
Overview of Week Seven
Wow, just wow: that is all that I can think of when I consider OSU’s loss to Purdue. Not only did it screw up my predictions, but the loss exposed how horrific OSU’s offensive line is, and that Terrelle Pryor is exceptionally overrated. The loss also altered the BCS picture, and really gave Iowa the all-clear for winning the conference, and maybe making it into the BCS National Championship. Last week was interesting and surprising, and this week will be too.
#6 Iowa (3-0) @ Michigan State (3-1)
This season, Iowa has their destiny in their own hands. As long as they keep on winning, they should be heading to the BCS National Championship, potentially giving the Hawkeyes their first NC since 1958. To make it there, however, the Hawkeyes first need to get past a tough Michigan State Team. The Spartans have been controlling the ball well as of late, and they are definitely holding onto it. Their defense, though having a porous secondary, is easily stopping the rushing game. In years past, that might have been a problem for Iowa, but it no longer is. Though Iowa traditionally is a rush first team, lately they have been airing the ball out. Against MSU, expect Iowa to throw the ball often, and use that to win the game. Iowa 28, Michigan State 10. This game will be shown on BTN at 7:00 p.m.
Illinois (0-4) @ Purdue (1-2)
Last Saturday, Purdue did the unthinkable and took out Ohio State. The win not only shook up the standings, but it also showed that Purdue is a decent team this season. Not only did they beat a highly ranked opponent, but most of their losses came by a touchdown or less, all of which were caused by turnovers. Clearly, Purdue is a good team, when they hold onto the ball. The Boilermakers have nothing to fear from Illinois’ defense, as the Fighting Illini don’t cause that many turnovers. Look for a strong showing from Purdue, with few mistakes, as they easily handle Illinois. Illinois 17, Purdue 35. This game will be shown on ESPN 2 at 12 p.m.
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