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 Ten is as follows:
Overview of Week Nine
Last week, the Big Ten decided to mess with my head. For starters, Illinois decided that they wanted to beat Michigan. I mean, how the heck was anybody supposed to predict that? Then, Wisconsin, a team that lost convincingly to OSU, decided to shut out Purdue, a team that beat the Buckeyes. I know, caveman logic doesn’t work, but still. Thankfully, Penn State, OSU, and Iowa all won, keeping the conference high up in the BCS standings.
Illinois (1-5) @ Minnesota (3-3)
Last Saturday, Illinois decided that they were going to do the impossible. Instead of losing like they have been doing all season, they easily beat the Michigan Wolverines. This will probably fire them up, but it will do little to help this season out. Minnesota, however, has a chance at making it to a bowl game this season, and they clearly are looking forward to it. A win on Saturday, in front of a home crowd, would make them eligible for a postseason game, which is something they desperately need. Expect Minnesota, led by a strong running game, to easily score on Illinois, thus becoming bowl eligible. Illinois 10, Minnesota 24. This game will be televised on BTN at 12:00 p.m.
Indiana (1-4) vs. #21 Wisconsin (3-2)
Last Saturday, Indiana had a chance to turn the football world on its head by beating Iowa. Instead, they lost the game in the final quarter, and ended up getting embarrassed. It is clear that Indiana has some talent, but they do not have the depth needed to play an entire game, this will probably cost them for the rest of the season. Wisconsin, who is ranked again, also has that talent, but they also have the depth needed. Expect the game to be close for the first few quarters, but then a rested secondary for the Badgers should take the lead late. Also look for running back John Clay, who will rake up the yards, getting another 100-plus yard game. Indiana 17, Wisconsin 23. This game will be televised on BTN at 12:00 p.m.
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