Another small docket with just five Big Ten games this weekend before a potentially huge week nine
Michigan State did their part in setting up a potentially huge week nine, now it’s up to the perennial top programs to do their part.
Michigan and Northwestern renew acquaintances, though this time it’s for the George Jewett Trophy. Meanwhile Ohio State and Indiana meet in prime time where the Hoosiers will attempt to avenge their loss to the Buckeyes last year.
Northwestern @ #6 Michigan – Saturday, 12:00 PM EST
The Wolverines get set to host Northwestern in a cross divisional contest. For the Wildcats, this game will test their porous rushing defense. Any chance for Northwestern to win will come down to the Wildcats 117th ranked rush defense playing at a level we haven’t seen all year.
With that said, Michigan shouldn’t have a problem establishing itself on the offensive line and moving through NU’s defense. The Wolverine defense also will be one of the better units Northwestern will face all season, making this a very difficult matchup for NU.
Michigan: 49 – 14
Illinois @ #7 Penn State – Saturday, 12:00 PM EST
Penn State had a bye week to heal up and work on a few things offensively before this weeks game against Illinois. They shouldn’t need a bye week for Illinois, but you may see offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich implement a few new wrinkles to his scheme. Sometimes, showing something new before a big game means next weeks opponent has something else to prepare for.
For Illinois, it’ll be a a tough task to pull the upset in Happy Valley. A lot will have to break their way for that to even look like a remote possibility. Still, if Illinois can crack the redzone on offense and come away with points against the number two redzone defense, maybe they can push PSU.
Penn State: 33 – 10
Wisconsin @ #25 Purdue – Saturday, 3:30 PM EST
Purdue will attempt to put their 14 game losing streak against the Badgers to an end this Saturday. It may be the best shot the Boilermakers may have in recent memory, as Wisconsin is uncharacteristically bad this year. Not only can Purdue throw the ball as well as anyone, but it is the one proven method for moving the ball against Wisconsin this year.
On the other end, Wisconsin cannot throw with consistency at all. Purdue has seen improved play in their defense this season under DC Brad Lambert, and if they can stop the run may come out on top. I do think Purdue ends the streak this Saturday.
Purdue: 24 – 17
Maryland @ Minnesota – Saturday, 3:30 PM EST
Maryland is trying to keep their season a float after a string of injuries, mostly to their secondary, have derailed things. Losing receiver Demus Jr. hasn’t helped matters either, but the offensive struggles really begin with Taulia Tagovailoa making better decisions at quarterback.
Minnesota controls their own destiny in the West partially because their quarterback, Tanner Morgan, has played much better since the Bowling Green upset. While the passing game has begun to click, the Gophers have also seen their defense make steady improvements as the season has progressed.
Minnesota: 27 – 14
#5 Ohio State @ Indiana – Saturday, 7:30 PM
The prime time match up this week is the Buckeyes traveling to Indiana. While the Hoosiers almost pulled the upset last weekend against Sparty, OSU brings a whole host of issues for IU. The Hoosier defense can cause confusion with their blitz and stunt packages that helped make them an elite unit last year, but the OSU offensive line is a veteran group that has done well all year at protecting QB C.J. Stroud.
We are still waiting on IU to put together a string of competent offensive outings this season, and I don’t see that changing this weekend. OSU has gotten better play out of their defense after the switch in play calling duties, and had time during the bye to improve while healing up in some areas.
OSU: 42 – 17