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(12/29/18 5:29am)
The Hoosiers opened their Big Ten conference season with an 85-83 overtime victory over the Illinois Fighting Illini Friday night in Champaign, Illinois. Ali Patberg led the way for Indiana with 20 points and Jaelynn Penn added 19 points with five made threes.
IU got off to a solid start in the first quarter, but it was in the second when the Hoosiers started to pull away. They had as large as a 15-point lead with six minutes to go in the second quarter. However, Illinois was able to trim the deficit to nine heading into halftime.
The third quarter was all Illinois. The Illini won the quarter by 16 points, flipping a nine-point deficit to a seven-point lead. The Hoosiers stormed back in the fourth, forcing overtime and eventually pulling out the hard-fought win.
There was plenty to take away from the first Big Ten game of the season.
(12/09/18 9:43pm)
Indiana improves to 9-0, after its 98-74 win over Missouri State Sunday afternoon, and for the most part, the results haven’t been close.
The Hoosiers are winning by an average margin of 16.6 points per game so far this season. Dating back to the WNIT championship last spring, Indiana owns the longest active streak in the nation at 15 games.
Something felt different Sunday afternoon. The offense scored at will, the defense made stops when they needed to, and five players scored in double figures.
At halftime, Indiana led 42-33 but couldn’t seem to pull away from the Lady Bears. However, in the third quarter, Indiana scored 32 points and had as large as a 17-point lead over Missouri State late in the quarter. Then in the fourth, they buckled down defensively and cruised to the 24-point victory.
Ali Patberg Threatens History
On Wednesday evening, Patberg struggled against Butler, finishing with seven turnovers. She said afterwards that she would spend the time between games working on that.
On Sunday, Patberg finished with 16 points, but most importantly, 13 assists and only three turnovers.
“I had a lot of assists because my teammates hit shots,” Patberg said. “Honestly, things like that just fall in place when you’re giving your all and you’re playing for your team.”
[embed]https://twitter.com/TheHoosierNet/status/1071869421172518914[/embed]
The Indiana record for assists in a game is 15, set by Tracy Krick in 1985. Patberg’s 13 helpers tied the transfer for second in the program’s record book for single-game assists.
“I thought Ali Patberg was especially terrific today with sharing the ball,” Teri Moren said. “I don’t think any of us were surprised with how she responded.”
Patberg also flirted with what would have been the first triple-double in program history. At halftime, she had six points, six rebounds and eight assists. She finished with 16 points, 13 assists and seven rebounds, falling just short of that triple-double.
[embed]https://twitter.com/TheHoosierNet/status/1071826029218619392[/embed]
Jaelynn Penn Playing Through the Pain
Jaelynn Penn has been battling an ankle injury for most of the season, especially lately after tweaking it in practice last week. However, Penn has found a way to be much more efficient in recent games, especially on Sunday afternoon.
Penn finished the day with a team-high 20 points on 8-of-12 shooting. The injury is still there, but Moren says it’s something she can play through.
“I thought today she felt better,” Moren said. “We’ve tried to manage her the best we can, with that ankle. Jaelynn has now been able to play through the pain.”
The Hoosiers’ 10-day break couldn’t come at a better time for Penn, who can now give that ankle some much needed rest before the trip to Puerto Rico.
“This will definitely help getting our bodies back to normal,” Penn said. “I’m just playing my game, taking shots I normally take. Today it just went in.”
In other news on the injury front, Moren said that she hopes to have freshman Aleksa Gulbe available for their Puerto Rico games. Gulbe sprained her ankle in practice this past Tuesday and has missed the past two games.
Balanced and Unselfish Team
The Hoosiers finished Sunday’s contest with all five starters in double figures. Their next two players off the bench scored nine and eight points respectively. The balanced scoring of this team was on display in this win.
Penn: 20 points
Wise: 18 points, 7 rebounds
Patberg: 16 points, 13 assists, 7 rebounds
Yeaney: 15 points, 3 assists
Royster: 10 points, 10 rebounds
Marchese: 9 points (career high)
Berger: 8 points, 2 assists
After having Tyra Buss and Amanda Cahill score the bulk of the scoring for the majority of the past few seasons, this newfound balance is a positive sign for a team that seems to be improving each and every game.
“I just think we are that talented. Every single player on our team can score,” Patberg said. “The best thing about our team is that we can score, but we are willing to pass the ball. I think that’s really really hard to defend if everybody can score.”
[embed]https://twitter.com/TheHoosierNet/status/1071872673389658112[/embed]
Indiana finished the game with 22 assists on 40 made shots, well above their 13 assist-per-game average this season. Moren believes the unselfish play comes from their leaders and trickles down throughout the team.
“I think it’s because of the people that are in that locker room. I think you have unselfish kids,” Moren said. “I always say this, leadership leads. Not only are they winning some games and our scoring is spread out, but they are all about each other. They don’t care who gets the credit. All that matters to them is they’re winning basketball games.”
Looking Ahead
The Hoosiers now have 10 days until their first game of the Puerto Rico classic against Loyola Marymount. The question is, will this 9-0 Big Ten team be ranked by the time they take the floor in Puerto Rico?
In the latest rankings that came out on December 3, Indiana received five votes. Since then, the Hoosiers have added two 20 plus-point victories and are now 9-0 with the nation’s longest active win streak. Moren said they aren’t worried about the rankings and where their team stands right now.
“We don’t talk about that,” Moren said. “The only thing we talk about is how we can get better and the areas we have to focus on. They have high expectations about what they want to accomplish.”
(12/05/18 2:22am)
On Sunday, Indiana was down by two with 33 seconds left against UCLA. Out of the timeout, Ali Patberg drove baseline and dished to Jaelynn Penn in the corner, who knocked down what proved to be the game-winning three pointer. It helped Indiana to their seventh win in a row to start the season.
Penn, who has been struggling with her shot for most of the season, went 6-for-11 for 17 points against UCLA. This came after an 18-point first half performance against Wake Forest last Wednesday.
Even after a rolled ankle earlier in the week during practice, the coaching staff had no problem putting the ball in Penn’s hands for the game-winner.
(11/30/18 5:26am)
Indiana was dominated from start to finish Tuesday night against Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
The Hoosiers turned the ball over too many times, fouled too many times, and didn’t grab enough of the 50-50 balls to hang around with the No. 3 team in the country.
For most Indiana fans, it may have felt like déjà vu. But think back to December 2, 2015, Indiana’s last trip to Cameron Indoor. The Hoosiers hung around in a first-half shootout, but were ultimately blown out in an embarrassing loss against then No. 7 Duke in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge.
Even though Indiana’s only seven games into the 2018-19 season, there are many similarities to be drawn between these two Duke games and these two seasons.
(11/25/18 11:57pm)
Indiana stayed undefeated on Sunday afternoon with a 91-73 win over the Northern Illinois Huskies.
At halftime, Indiana found themselves trailing the Huskies by one. NIU shot seven-of-14 from three and the Hoosiers turned the ball over 10 times. The Huskies finished the quarter on a 10-2 run and took a one-point advantage to the locker room.
Head Coach Teri Moren said there weren’t any major adjustments at halftime. It was all about being sharper on defense. That’s where the Hoosiers turned to sophomore Bendu Yeaney.
Yeaney was tasked with guarding NIU’s best player, Courtney Woods, who averaged 20 points per game in her first three contests.
Woods scored just 10 points, shot two-for-12 from the field and was zero-for-eight inside the arc. Five of Woods’ 10 points were scored while Jaelynn Penn was guarding her, and four of her 10 points were from the free throw line. Moren and the IU coaching staff have a lot of confidence in Yeaney’s defense.
“I think I speak for all of us when we say that we’re very confident that whoever Bendu is matched up with, as I said the other day with Florida, will have a difficult time,” Moren said.
This defensive performance for Yeaney comes off the heels of shutting down Florida’s and the SEC’s leading scorer, Funda Nakkasoglu, on Wednesday. Nakkasoglu scored just five points on two-of-eight shooting.
(11/23/18 11:12pm)
Northwestern owns the West, but the East will be decided in Columbus this weekend. Last weekend, both Ohio State and Michigan avoided scares to set up “The Game.”
Meanwhile, there are four Big Ten teams playing for bowl eligibility this week. Minnesota will take on Wisconsin, Maryland travels to Penn State, and Indiana and Purdue will matchup for a spot in a bowl game.
Here are how things stack up with one week to go…
14. Rutgers (1-10, 0-8)
Last week: 20-7 LOSS vs No. 14 Penn State
This week: at Michigan State (4:00 FOX)
The Rutgers defense was solid and Raheem Blackshear ran for 102 yards and a touchdown, but the quarterback position once again held the Scarlet Knights back. Artur Sitkowski went 3-for-7 for 18 yards and two interceptions, while Giovanni Rescigno came in and went 2-for-8 for 28 yards. The quarterback position continues to be the biggest issue for Rutgers.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Illinois (4-7, 2-6)
Last week: 63-0 LOSS vs Iowa
This week: at No. 19 Northwestern (3:30 BTN)
Not a great look for Illinois. I’ve thought all season this team was improving from some dismal seasons lately. However, this game sets them right back to square one.
Their two quarterbacks combined for 12-for-30, 82 yards and three picks. They allowed Iowa to run all over them defensively.
In the win column, it’s an improvement for Illinois, but after a 63-0 loss, a lot of that progress is lost in the minds of Illini fans.
Previous Ranking: T12
12. Minnesota (5-6, 2-6)
Last week: 24-14 LOSS vs No. 22 Northwestern
This week: at Wisconsin (3:30 ESPN2)
Minnesota was competitive, but just didn’t have enough against a very good Northwestern team. Defensively, they struggled to stop Clayton Thorson. Offensively, Tanner Morgan was good but not great, with two costly interceptions.
Now the focus for the Golden Gophers is on Wisconsin and a possible bowl game with a big win in their final game of the season.
Previous Ranking: T12
11. Maryland (5-6, 3-5)
Last week: 52-51 (OT) LOSS vs No. 10 Ohio State
This week: at No. 12 Penn State (3:30 ABC)
So close. One play away from a huge upset in College Park. With that being said, Tyrrell Pigrome was solid when asked to throw, but the big impact was on the ground.
Freshman Anthony McFarland was phenomenal. He ran the ball 21 times for 298 yards and two giant runs for touchdowns. Ohio State had no answer to Maryland’s run game.
Even if they don’t pull the upset in Happy Valley this weekend, the fact that this team has stuck together this season through everything has been impressive. Maryland has been through a lot, a bowl game would be an incredible end to a tumultuous year.
Previous Ranking: 11
10. Indiana (5-6, 2-6)
Last week: 31-20 LOSS at No. 4 Michigan
This week: vs Purdue (12:00 ESPN2)
Indiana did its usual thing, contending with top-ranked teams but not having what it takes to finish the game. A lot of people, including myself, were surprised it was even this close.
Stevie Scott had a surprisingly great game against the No. 1 rush defense in the country, rushing for 139 yards and a touchdown. However, the defense couldn’t stop Patterson and Higdon when they needed to, and ultimately the Hoosiers couldn’t finish a game that they were in all the way until the fourth quarter. Now it’s down to the Bucket Game to see who goes bowling.
Previous Ranking: 10
9. Nebraska (4-7, 3-5)
Last week: 9-6 WIN vs Michigan State
This week: at Iowa (Friday, 12:00 FOX)
If you don’t like offense, you didn’t miss anything in this game. However, Nebraska proved they can win a game with their defense. This Nebraska team has gotten so much better in the past few weeks, winners of four of their last five. The one issue for Nebraska was third down conversions, going 4-for-14.
Nebraska’s defense forced two turnovers and only six points allowed and won the game for a team that has won for most of the season by outscoring opponents in shootouts. There’s a lot to be excited about in Lincoln.
Previous Ranking: 9
8. Purdue (5-6, 4-4)
Last week: 47-44 (3OT) LOSS vs Wisconsin
This week: at Indiana (12:00 ESPN2)
Just as Purdue looked like it was turning their season around, they’ve lost three of four and are facing the possibility of missing a bowl game and bookending their season on three-game losing streaks.
Purdue had this game under control, with a 27-13 lead. However, they couldn’t stop Jonathan Taylor, who ran for over 300 yards, and they lost in a thrilling three-overtime classic.
David Blough was great, throwing for 386 yards and four touchdowns, but Purdue was too one-dimensional to get the job done.
Previous Ranking: 7
7. Michigan State (6-5, 4-4)
Last week: 9-6 LOSS at Nebraska
This week: vs Rutgers (4:00 FOX)
This has been a similar type of season to what happened two years ago. They had a lot of preseason hype but have fallen flat on their faces. While they will still get to a bowl game, the Gator Bowl, or whatever bowl they play in, was not in the expectations of any Spartan fan at the beginning of the season.
The Spartans had 289 total yards against Nebraska, but only mustered up two field goals. That won’t get it done against any team, let alone an improving Nebraska team.
Previous Ranking: 6
6. Wisconsin (7-4, 5-3)
Last week: 47-44 (3OT) WIN at Purdue
This week: vs Minnesota (3:30 ESPN2)
Wisconsin’s wheels were falling off, but Jonathan Taylor was there to save the day in West Lafayette. Taylor had 33 carries for 321 yards and three touchdowns, including an 80-yard sprint to the end zone.
Another team similar to Iowa and Penn State that doesn’t have anything to play for really. They are playing for a spot in the Outback bowl or the Capital One bowl or something like that. They do have a rivalry matchup with Minnesota this week, and a win would keep the Gophers out of a bowl game.
Previous Ranking: 8
5. Iowa (7-4, 4-4)
Last week: 63-0 WIN at Illinois
This week: vs Nebraska (Friday, 12:00 FOX)
What do you say about a team that won 63-0? Nate Stanley was solid, the running game was effective, and the defense forced four turnovers.
Iowa had a disappointing middle of the season, but they can finish strong with this thumping and a win over a much-improved Nebraska squad on Friday.
Previous Ranking: 5
4. Penn State (8-3, 5-3)
Last week: 20-7 WIN at Rutgers
This week: vs Maryland (3:30 ABC)
It wasn’t pretty, but at this point, there isn’t much for Penn State to play for. They have an incredibly outside chance of a New Year’s Six bowl but are more likely to be in a top-tier regular bowl game. So, you can understand a sleepy game in Piscataway for Penn State.
McSorley became the all-time winningest quarterback in Penn State history, a well-deserved honor for a fantastic football player.
Now they have to be ready for Maryland’s best shot as the Terrapins are looking for their sixth win of the season.
Previous Ranking: 4
3. Northwestern (7-4, 7-1)
Last week: 24-14 WIN at Minnesota
This week: vs Illinois (3:30 BTN)
Northwestern was disrespected this past week by being an underdog at Minnesota. Pat Fitzgerald was upset after the game about it, but they took care of business and that’s all that matters. Clayton Thorson threw for 230 yards while Isaiah Bowser ran for 85 yards and two touchdowns. The defense was also solid, holding Minnesota, a team that has proved they can score, to just 14 points.
Previous Ranking: 3
2. Ohio State (10-1, 7-1)
Last week: 52-51 (OT) WIN at Maryland
This week: vs No. 4 Michigan (12:00 FOX)
Ohio State has had several close calls this season, but none like this one this past Saturday. They trailed throughout the majority of this game and never seemed to have control of the game. They allowed 339 rushing yards and 51 points.
However, when he needed to, Dwayne Haskins stepped up, throwing for 405 yards and three touchdowns. J.K. Dobbins was also spectacular, rushing for 203 yards and a touchdown.
They have to fix the defense though if they want to win this week. The explosive plays could be what keeps Ohio State from the Big Ten Championship and the Playoff.
Previous Ranking: 2
1. Michigan (10-1, 8-0)
Last week: 31-20 WIN vs Indiana
This week: at No. 10 Ohio State (12:00 FOX)
It wasn’t pretty, but Michigan got the job done. Shea Patterson threw for 250 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 68 yards. Karan Higdon ran 21 times for 101 yards and a touchdown. However, Michigan was only 1-for-8 scoring touchdowns in the red zone. The defense also allowed Stevie Scott to run for 134 yards. They will need to fix that quickly with Dobbins and Ohio State coming up next.
Previous Ranking: 1
(11/21/18 10:18pm)
Indiana passed one of their biggest tests of this young season with flying colors on Wednesday afternoon, defeating the Florida Gators 83-64 to improve to 4-0.
After a slow start, Indiana surged in the second and third quarters and cruised to a big win, led by five players in double figures and two players with double-doubles.
Here are some takeaways from Indiana’s fourth win of the season.
The Arrival of Grace Berger
It has been a slow start to the season for five-star freshman Grace Berger. Through the first three games of the season, Berger scored only nine points and made only one three pointer.
However, head coach Teri Moren praised her confidence and how it never wavered, even after a slow start.
"She was by far our best offensive player yesterday in practice," Moren said, "She can get into the paint and then she elevates. Like I said, she has an old man's game where she elevates and has that mid-range game."
On Wednesday afternoon, Berger notched a career-high 11 points to go with three assists in the win over Florida. She also knocked down her first three pointer of the season and looked confident throughout the ballgame.
On a day where Ali Patberg found herself in foul trouble, Berger stepped up and played big minutes in the midst of Indiana’s big third-quarter run that helped them to pull away from Florida. The Hoosiers have struggled with turnovers this year, but Berger was a positive on Wednesday, turning the ball over only two times in the win.
"I did see a little bit more emotion out of Grace this afternoon, which is good to see," Moren said, "She's just going to continue to grow into a fabulous player and a great Big Ten player here."
[embed]https://twitter.com/TheHoosierNet/status/1065372556520292353[/embed]
Huge Third Quarter
Indiana was leading by six at halftime after a solid second quarter helped get them in the lead. However, the third quarter was when the Hoosiers blew the game wide open.
The Hoosiers outscored Florida 23-13 in the third quarter, but it was the finish to the quarter that stood out. Indiana finished the last 3:17 on an 11-1 run, allowing no field goals from the Gators in that timespan.
Florida finished the quarter one-of-eight, missing their last six shots and watching the Hoosiers take a 16-point lead into the final quarter.
Indiana’s Brenna Wise scored 13 of her 18 points in the second half, leading to her first double-double as an Indiana Hoosier.
"I thought Brenna Wise was terrific," Moren said, "I thought a lot of them had their moments where they were really good. We went on spurts there were we were scoring the ball."
[embed]https://twitter.com/IndianaOnBTN/status/1065354537173696512[/embed]
Most Complete Performance of the Season
Despite the 0-4 record, Florida was arguably Indiana’s toughest opponent yet, and Indiana left no doubt who was the better team Wednesday afternoon.
The Hoosiers’ 83 points was a season high. That number was aided by 51-percent shooting from the field and an impressive 62-percent from beyond the arc (8-of-13). That’s easily the best shooting night for the Hoosiers from long range this season.
They also held Florida to 8-of-27 from deep and Bendu Yeaney limited the SEC’s leading scorer, Funda Nakkasoglu, to 5 points on 2-of-8 shooting.
"As far as one-on-one, when you have the ball, you're trying to get past Bendu, you're trying to get a shot off against Bendu, it's going to be incredibly tough," Moren said.
[embed]https://twitter.com/TheHoosierNet/status/1065370972046405633[/embed]
The Hoosiers had five players score double figures, with two more scoring nine points. Wise’s 18 points led the way, while Royster added 13 points and 10 rebounds.
Turnovers weren’t great, but the 16 turnovers was under Indiana’s average this season, so it’s an improvement from that perspective.
Overall, Indiana gets a big win to improve to 4-0 on the season and will finish out their homestand on Sunday against Northern Illinois.
(11/16/18 4:35pm)
The Northwestern Wildcats will be in Indianapolis in December, playing for a Big Ten Championship game. They’ve now won 13 of their last 14 Big Ten games, dating back to last season. Northwestern is also one of eight Big Ten teams with either a 5-5 or 6-4 record, making it very difficult for me to rank all of these teams with such similar records.
Meanwhile, at the top, Ohio State is finally back on track, maybe, and Michigan is still dominating. As long as they take care of business this week, they’re set for another monumental rivalry matchup in Columbus next week.
Here are my rankings heading into Week 12…
14. Rutgers (1-9, 0-7)
Last week: 42-7 LOSS vs No. 4 Michigan
This week: vs No. 14 Penn State (12:00 BTN)
Another rough day for Rutgers. Quarterback Artur Sitkowski threw for 40 yards and ended with a 2.1 QBR. Thanks to his 80-yard touchdown run, running back Isaih Pacheco ran for 142 yards and a touchdown.
There isn’t a lot to say, again, about Rutgers. They played poorly, lost by a lot, and still haven’t won a game since September 1.
Previous Ranking: 14
T12. Minnesota (5-5, 2-5)
Last week: 41-10 WIN vs Purdue
This week: vs No. 22 Northwestern (12:00 BTN)
Minnesota with one of the more impressive wins in the conference this past weekend. However, I have to keep in mind that it’s only one week removed from Illinois running up the score on Minnesota, and that’s why they aren’t ahead of the Illini.
Tanner Morgan is doing what he needs to do, stepping in for the injured Annexstad. Morgan threw for 139 yards and a touchdown. However, it was the defense and the run game that helped Minnesota run away with it.
The Gophers ran for 265 yards as a team and held Purdue to only 88 yards rushing. They also held David Blough to 142 yards. Minnesota needs one more win to get into a bowl game, which would be a positive ending to a wild season for P.J. Fleck and company.
Previous Ranking: 13
T12. Illinois (4-6, 2-5)
Last week: 54-35 LOSS at Nebraska
This week: vs Iowa (3:30 BTN)
After a promising win against Minnesota, the defense fizzled against Nebraska. Bush wasn’t great at quarterback, throwing for 126 yards and two picks. The ground game was phenomenal though, rushing for 383 yards and five touchdowns as a team.
However, Nebraska ran for 316 yards and four touchdowns of their own. Add that to Adrian Martinez’s 290 yards and three touchdowns through the air and you get 54 points and 606 yards allowed by the Illini defense.
Now they have to win out to make a bowl game. Even if they don’t do that, this season has been a slight improvement for Lovie Smith in Champaign.
Previous Ranking: 12
11. Maryland (5-5, 3-4)
Last week: 34-32 LOSS at Indiana
This week: vs No. 10 Ohio State (12:00 ABC)
Maryland was certainly hurt by the injury to Kasim Hill. However, they still didn’t take care of the football and coughed away their chance at a bowl game.
The Terrapins ran for 353 yards, spearheaded by Anthony McFarland, who ran 29 times for 210 yards. However, they had to settle for four field goals and turned the ball over four times.
The reason I say they coughed up their chance at a bowl game is because their final two opponents are Ohio State and Penn State. Unless they can pull a big upset, the Terrapins are staring a 5-7 season in the face.
Previous Ranking: 9
10. Indiana (5-5, 2-5)
Last week: 34-32 WIN vs Maryland
This week: at No. 4 Michigan (4:00 FS1)
Peyton Ramsey had arguably his best game of the season. He threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns, while also scoring a 35-yard touchdown on the ground, featuring some sweet juke moves. Stevie Scott eclipsed 100 yards, rushing for 103 yards and a touchdown.
The defense continues to be the issue. They allowed 353 rushing yards and 189 passing yards against a team that has struggled to pass all season. However, Indiana's takeaways were the difference and kept a bowl game within reach.
Previous Ranking: 11
9. Nebraska (3-7, 2-5)
Last week: 54-35 WIN vs Illinois
This week: vs Michigan State (12:00 FOX)
Another really solid performance for Nebraska. Adrian Martinez threw for 290 yards and three touchdowns and Devine Ozigbo ran for 162 yards and three more touchdowns. The forced seven fumbles from Illinois, recovering three of them. They also forced two interceptions.
After an 0-6 start, Scott Frost has his team playing some solid football. They’ve now won three of their last four games, with the one loss being at Ohio State. The future is starting to look brighter in Lincoln.
Previous Ranking: 10
8. Wisconsin (6-4, 4-3)
Last week: 22-10 LOSS vs No. 20 Penn State
This week: at Purdue (3:30 BTN)
Wisconsin is still riding Jack Coan, and he’s not taking them very far. Coan went 9-for-20 for 60 yards and two interceptions. Jonathan Taylor did all he could to keep Wisconsin in the game, rushing for 185 yards a touchdown, but they were no match for Penn State.
Wisconsin was once a top-10 team. Now, they’re one of the eight Big Ten teams with a 5-5 or 6-4 record. A disappointing season that keeps getting uglier each week.
Previous Ranking: 8
7. Purdue (5-5, 4-3)
Last week: 41-10 LOSS at Minnesota
This week: vs Wisconsin (3:30 BTN)
This was the most surprising result of the week. Purdue needed one more win in their final three games, which featured Minnesota, Wisconsin and Indiana. There were plenty of people, including myself, who thought this could end up being an 8-4 Purdue team. However, Minnesota had other plans.
Blough struggled, and the ground game fizzled in snowy conditions at Minnesota. The Boilermaker’s leading rusher was D.J. Knox, who ran 10 times for 34 yards. Their longest rush as a team was 15 yards. The kicker: 0-for-12 on third downs. That’s not going to get it done.
I would still expect Purdue to get their sixth win this week against Wisconsin, but I don’t feel as good about it as I did a week ago.
Previous Ranking: 7
6. Michigan State (6-4, 4-3)
Last week: 26-6 LOSS vs No. 10 Ohio State
This week: at Nebraska (12:00 FOX)
The two-quarterback rotation still wasn’t enough for Michigan State to score a touchdown, let alone compete with Ohio State. The Spartans mustered up just 54 yards on the ground and turned the ball over three times in the loss.
I understand that injuries have hurt Michigan State, but they have played some of the ugliest football of any Big Ten team this season, and that includes Rutgers. While they’ve won six games, it hasn’t been pretty.
Previous Ranking: 6
5. Iowa (6-4, 3-4)
Last week: 14-10 LOSS vs Northwestern
This week: at Illinois (3:30 BTN)
Iowa didn’t move and hasn’t moved much during their three-game skid because the teams behind them keep losing in humiliating fashion. I was ready to move Purdue up until they lost to Minnesota by 31. I was ready to keep Michigan State in the top-5 until they had no offense against Ohio State.
Iowa couldn’t get anything going on the ground against Northwestern. While Nate Stanley was good, throwing for 269 yards and a touchdown, they were too one-dimensional to get the job done in one of the ugliest football games of the season.
Three weeks ago, I thought the West would for sure go to Iowa. Now, it’s hard to believe I ever thought that with the way the season has plummeted for the Hawkeyes.
Previous Ranking: 5
4. Penn State (7-3, 4-3)
Last week: 22-10 WIN vs Wisconsin
This week: at Rutgers (12:00 BTN)
Penn State did nothing wrong, but they aren’t playing for the Big Ten Championship in December, so I dropped them below Northwestern out of respect for the Cats. However, it was another soild win for Penn State behind 159 yards on the ground from Miles Sanders. McSorley was also solid, throwing for 160 yards and a touchdown.
Not much else to say about Penn State. They can get to 9-3 and be a top-15 team but that’s about it for the Nittany Lions.
Previous Ranking: 3
3. Northwestern (6-4, 6-1)
Last week: 14-10 WIN at No. 21 Iowa
This week: at Minnesota (12:00 BTN)
Congratulations are in order for the Wildcats. I had them ranked 10th at one point this season. However, having won six straight Big Ten game, the Cats have moved into the top-three. Are they better than Penn State? Probably not. But because they’re going to Indianapolis and because of the respect I have for the Northwestern program, I am putting them in third.
Isaiah Bowser was phenomenal against Iowa, rushing for 165 yards and a touchdown. Shoutout to Fort Wayne and Homestead High School product Ben Skowronek who grabbed the game-winner in incredible fashion to lift the Cats over the Hawkeyes.
Previous Ranking: 4
2. Ohio State (9-1, 6-1)
Last week: 26-6 WIN at No. 18 Michigan State
This week: at Maryland (12:00 ABC)
Ohio State finally looked like the top-10 team they should be. After some subpar wins over Minnesota, Indiana and Nebraska and the humiliating loss against Purdue, they dominated Michigan State from start to finish and ran away with it in the fourth quarter.
Dwayne Haskins threw for 227 yards and a touchdown, while Mike Weber ran for 104 yards and a touchdown.
Ohio State needs to take care of business at Maryland, then they’ll be set up for the Big Ten East championship against Michigan at the Horseshoe.
Previous Ranking: 2
1. Michigan (9-1, 7-0)
Last week: 42-7 WIN at Rutgers
This week: vs Indiana (4:00 FS1)
Not much to talk about here. Michigan struggled at first, but eventually did what most teams have done against Rutgers. Patterson threw for 260 yards and three touchdowns. Higdon didn’t rush for 100 yards for the first time in eight weeks, but he still ran for two touchdowns.
The defense is still good, albeit against Rutgers. They have another subpar opponent this week with Indiana before they get ready for the Big Ten East championship against Ohio State.
Previous Ranking: 1
(11/14/18 6:43pm)
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The Other Guys are back. This week, the guys break down who would be their No. 1 pick if they were the captains for The Hoosier Network's Turkey Bowl. And believe it or not, Kurt did not bring up the Browns. Take a listen.
(11/11/18 11:57pm)
The Hoosiers took care of business in their first road game of the season, cruising past Oakland 59-32.
It wasn’t the prettiest game, with 26 turnovers from IU, but once again it was the play of Ali Patberg and Brenna Wise that led this team to their second win. After a nail-biter at home on Wednesday, the Hoosiers left no doubt in Auburn Hills, Michigan Sunday. Here are some takeaways from the road victory.
(11/08/18 7:45pm)
The Big Ten is bad. While Michigan is good, really good, the conference is not. I don't know how to rank teams 3-8 because they've all beaten each other and no one looks better than the others. The bottom of the conference is also really bad.
With that being said, I think Michigan is a national championship contender, and their No. 1 spot is not in any danger at the moment, with Rutgers and Indiana next on their schedule.
Here's how things stack up going into week 11...
14. Rutgers (1-8, 0-6)
Last week: 31-17 LOSS at Wisconsin
This week: vs No. 4 Michigan (3:30 BTN)
Rutgers actually looked like a football team this week. Artur Sitkowski threw for 261 yards and a touchdown. He also had zero turnovers.
The issue was they had no running game and they couldn’t stop the run game from Wisconsin. Rutgers continues to lose and struggle in almost every facet. I can’t imagine Chris Ash is still the head coach next season.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Minnesota (4-5, 1-5)
Last week: 55-31 LOSS at Illinois
This week: vs Purdue (3:30 ESPN2)
All of the progress that Minnesota made with a win over Indiana was lost this past weekend in Champaign. P.J. Fleck is firmly on the hot seat after his team laid an egg against one of the worst teams in the Big Ten.
Tanner Morgan was fine, throwing for 258 yards and two touchdowns. They also ran for 178 yards and scored 31 points. However, the defense allowed over 600 total yards again, this time it came thanks to 430 rushing yards from the Illini. Illinois averaged 12.3 yards per carry and scored 5 rushing touchdowns. Opponents have scored 30 or more points on Minnesota in their last six games. The defense is a big issue, and it could be the reason Fleck is gone after two years.
Previous Ranking: 11
12. Illinois (4-5, 2-4)
Last week: 55-31 WIN vs Minnesota
This week: at Nebraska (12:00 BTN)
A.J. Bush was good, throwing for 216 yards and two touchdowns. However, the running backs deserve a lot of the credit from the win. Reggie Corbin ran 13 times for 213 yards and two touchdowns, Bush ran 14 times for 127 yards and two touchdowns and Dre Brown ran seven times for 92 yards and a touchdown.
Illinois finishes the season with Nebraska, Iowa and Northwestern. While it’s not probable that Illinois makes it to a bowl game, this has certainly been an improvement for Lovie Smith in year three.
Previous Ranking: 13
11. Indiana (4-5, 1-5)
Last week: OFF
This week: vs Maryland (12:00 BTN)
The Hoosiers had a bye week to rebound off a very disappointing loss at Minnesota. Now they have to win two of their last three games, and one of those is at Michigan. That makes this week’s matchup with Maryland a must-win.
Previous Ranking: 12
10. Nebraska (2-7, 1-5)
Last week: 36-31 LOSS at No. 10 Ohio State
This week: vs Illinois
This was about as good of an outcome as Nebraska fans could have hoped for. I thought it would get ugly quickly in Columbus, but Nebraska hung around and even had a halftime lead.
Adrian Martinez threw for 266 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 72 yards and two touchdowns. Martinez seems to be maturing every game and is a solid candidate for Scott Frost’s quarterback of the future.
Frost has things trending upward in Lincoln and the future is bright for Nebraska.
Previous Ranking: 10
9. Maryland (5-4, 3-3)
Last week: 24-3 LOSS vs Michigan State
This week: at Indiana (12:00 BTN)
I wrote about Maryland’s home success last week. This week was not a great way to back up to those stats. Maryland has had a lot going on in its athletic department and with the football team in particular.
74 passing yards won’t get a win. 26 rushing yards won’t get a win. A lot of teams have struggled against Michigan State’s defense, but this week was really bad for the Terrapins. Now they need one more win in their final three. This week is their best chance, at Indiana.
Previous Ranking: 9
8. Wisconsin (6-3, 4-2)
Last week: 31-17 WIN vs Rutgers
This week: at No. 20 Penn State (12:00 ABC)
Wisconsin has dropped a lot of spots this season. This was supposed to be an easy Big Ten West championship season for Wisconsin, and now they are behind the Wildcats and look to be out of the race for the Big Ten. Alex Hornibrook isn’t their quarterback anymore. After going 7-for-16 and throwing two interceptions, he was pulled for Jack Coan. However, it didn’t matter who was under center, with Jonathan Taylor running for 208 yards and three touchdowns.
Taylor is good, but this team is not what we thought they were to start the season. Without a solid quarterback option, Wisconsin’s season is pretty much done.
Previous Ranking: T6
7. Purdue (5-4, 4-2)
Last week: 38-36 WIN vs No. 16 Iowa
This week: at Minnesota (3:30 ESPN2)
Purdue is capable of winning the Big Ten. However, their week one loss to Northwestern could keep them from having a chance in Indianapolis.
The Boilermakers now have three wins over ranked teams (Ohio State, Iowa and Boston College). Their early season struggles were weird, but they’ve worked through them and are still in the hunt in the Big Ten West. They need some help, but David Blough, Rondale Moore and company aren’t dead yet. When you have Tyler Trent rooting you on, anything can happen, and they’ve proven that lately.
Purdue should probably be higher, but I can’t really justify putting them above Northwestern or Michigan State, who beat them.. Everyone from 3-8 is very similar, and anyone can beat anyone.
Previous Ranking: 8
6. Michigan State (6-3, 4-2)
Last week: 24-3 WIN at Maryland
This week: vs No. 10 Ohio State (12:00 FOX)
Michigan State has looked really good and really bad and I don’t know what to think of the Spartans. Brian Lewerke hasn’t been good this season. This past week he threw for 87 yards and an interception. However, their defense was great again and they established the run, allowing the Spartans to cruise past Maryland. Connor Heyward ran 15 times for 157 yards and two touchdowns.
Michigan State can still mess things up in the Big Ten with a win this week against Ohio State.
Previous Ranking: T6
5. Iowa (6-3, 3-3)
Last week: 38-36 LOSS at Purdue
This week: vs Northwestern (3:30 FOX)
Back to back road losses has now cost Iowa a chance at the Big Ten West title. The Hawkeyes were in the driver’s seat in the West and seemed to be playing some of the best football in the country. However, costly mistakes in consecutive weeks has cost them.
The defense couldn’t stop Blough. He threw for 333 yards and four touchdowns. Stanley had a solid game, throwing for 275 yards and a touchdown. However, their defense proved to be too big of an obstacle to overcome. Iowa can throw a wrench in the West with a win this week against Northwestern.
Previous Ranking: 4
4. Northwestern (5-4, 5-1)
Last week: 31-21 LOSS vs No. 4 Notre Dame
This week: at No. 21 Iowa (3:30 FOX)
Disappointing result for Northwestern. An 0-3 record in non-conference play is disappointing. However, they are still 5-1 in conference play and have a straight forward path to Indianapolis. Thorson struggled against Notre Dame, only throwing for 141 yards. Their defense couldn’t stop Ian Book, both through the air and on the ground.
Northwestern owns the tiebreakers over Purdue and Wisconsin, the two teams one game back of them in the West. So essentially, Northwestern has a two-game lead in the West with three weeks left. The Cats have a great chance of making it to the Big Ten Championship game.
Previous Ranking: 5
3. Penn State (6-3, 3-3)
Last week: 42-7 LOSS at No. 5 Michigan
This week: vs Wisconsin (12:00 ABC)
Someone has to be No. 3 in the conference. At times, I thought it was Penn State. At times, I thought it was Iowa. At times, I am starting to think it’s Northwestern or Purdue. However, I think talent wise, Penn State is the No. 3 team and that’s why they’re still there. It was ugly at Michigan, but a lot of teams will look really bad against one of the best defenses in the country, especially without a healthy Trace McSorley. So that’s why Penn State is still No. 3 in my rankings.
Previous Ranking: 3
2. Ohio State (8-1, 5-1)
Last week: 36-31 WIN vs Nebraska
This week: at No. 18 Michigan State (12:00 FOX)
Ohio State had a whole week to regroup from the Purdue disaster, and what did they do? They came home and struggled to beat a 2-6 Nebraska team. Haskins was sub-par compared to his previous numbers, going 18-for-32 for 252 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. J.K. Dobbins was phenomenal, rushing for 163 yards and three touchdowns, but their defense was spotty again. The defense is what will keep Ohio State from turning things around. I expect them to lose one of the next two weeks before they host Michigan.
Previous Ranking: 2
1. Michigan (8-1, 6-0)
Last week: 42-7 WIN vs No. 14 Penn State
This week: at Rutgers (3:30 BTN)
Michigan is good, the Big Ten is bad. It’s as simple as that for me. I think Michigan is national championship is good, but the conference is nowhere close to them. Michigan is clearly the best team in the Big Ten and the gap is continuing to grow.
Shea Patterson only had to throw 17 times, throwing for 144 yards and two touchdowns. Karan Higdon continues to shine. He has now rushed for 100 yards in seven straight games (longest streak in FBS). He ran 20 times for 132 yards and a touchdown.
Michigan shouldn’t be bothered before its battle at Ohio State. This could be the year Jim Harbaugh wins against his arch-rival Buckeyes.
Previous Ranking: 1
(11/07/18 6:39pm)
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Big Ten Network's men's basketball analyst Jon Crispin joins the guys in studio to talk about Indiana's win over Chicago State, their season expectations and his friendship with IU Volleyball Head Coach Steve Aird. Take a listen.
(11/06/18 4:15am)
Join Austin Render and golf course architect Steve Smyers as they takes us around the new IU golf course. Smyers goes in depth on what goes into designing golf courses and much more.
(11/01/18 8:12pm)
The Big Ten West is a madhouse. Northwestern has control and two of the tiebreakers, but Iowa still has to play both Northwestern and Purdue.
Meanwhile, in the East, Michigan seems to be the favorite, but there is a host of teams waiting for the Wolverines to slip up.
Indiana continues to tumble, while the Wildcats have made a big move in the last few weeks. Here's how the Big Ten stacks up heading into week 10...
14. Rutgers (1-7, 0-5)
Last week: OFF
This week: at Wisconsin (12:00 BTN)
Rutgers was on a bye. There isn’t anything else to say about the Scarlet Knights.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Illinois (3-5, 1-4)
Last week: 63-33 LOSS at Maryland
This week: vs Minnesota (3:30 BTN)
The Illini allowed 281 yards through the air and 431 yards through the air. That’s 712 yards of total offense allowed to the Terrapins. They also allowed 63 points. The defense was atrocious in the latest loss for Illinois.
The offense showed up. AJ Bush Jr. played a decent game at quarterback, throwing for 216 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Reggie Corbin ran the ball 18 times for 155 yards and a touchdown, including a 69-yard touchdown run. Wide receiver Dominic Stampley caught four balls for 153 yards and two touchdowns.
However, it doesn’t matter how good your offense is if you allow over 700 yards of offense to the other team.
Previous Ranking: 13
12. Indiana (4-5, 1-5)
Last week: 38-31 LOSS at Minnesota
This week: OFF
This was the final straw for Hoosier fans. They saw their team trail 31-9 heading into the fourth quarter. They saw their team fight back and tie the game. Then the Hoosiers gave up a huge passing play and fumbled on their last possession to lose the game. Sound familiar?
Ramsey had to throw the ball 44 times, passing for 232 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Stevie Scott ran for 96 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. However, their struggles were mainly defensively.
Minnesota had to play their backup quarterback, Taylor Morgan. He went on to throw for 302 yards and three touchdowns. Even when forcing four turnovers, the Hoosier defense wasn’t enough to get the Hoosiers a game they had to win. The Hoosiers have taken one of the biggest tumbles of any team throughout this season’s rankings.
Previous Ranking: 10
11. Minnesota (4-4, 1-4)
Last week: 38-31 WIN vs Indiana
This week: at Illinois (3:30 BTN)
This was a big win for Minnesota. Not because Indiana is a good team, but because this could possibly save P.J. Fleck and even get Minnesota into a bowl game. They still have Illinois, Purdue, Northwestern and Wisconsin, and they need two more wins. It’s not probable, but it’s possible.
Taylor Morgan was fantastic (see Indiana section), but the balance was the key to Minnesota’s offense. Shannon Brooks ran 22 times for 154 yards and a touchdown. The Gophers racked up 482 total yards of offense in the win, and they forced three turnovers defensively.
Previous Ranking: 12
10. Nebraska (2-6, 1-4)
Last week: 45-9 WIN vs Bethune-Cookman
This week: at No. 8 Ohio State
Two wins in a row for the Cornhuskers. While it was against Bethune-Cookman, I’m sure Husker fans were happy to see the offense clicking for the second consecutive week. Both the running and passing games were great and balanced, while they forced three turnovers defensively.
While they have some positive momentum in Lincoln, they now have to travel to Ohio State this week. While this is a struggling Ohio State team, they had a bye week to figure things out, and I wouldn’t want to be Nebraska this week. A poor performance this week shouldn’t rain on the recent Nebraska parade in Lincoln.
Previous Ranking: 11
9. Maryland (5-3, 3-2)
Last week: 63-33 WIN vs Illinois
This week: vs Michigan State (12:00 ESPN2)
Maryland fans should be pretty confident when the Terrapins are playing at home. Maryland is now 4-1 at home this season, with the one loss coming in a shocking defeat to Temple. Maryland averages 50 points per game at home, while only averaging 22 points per game on the road. In their two losses on the road, they’ve been blanked by Iowa and held to 21 points at Michigan.
Like what was written in the Illinois section, Maryland ended with 712 yards of total offense. Kasim Hill threw for 265 yards and three touchdowns. Four running backs ran for at least 60 yards, and three different backs scored a touchdown.
The Terrapins will have a chance to become bowl eligible this week with a home matchup with Michigan State.
Previous Ranking: 9
8. Purdue (4-4, 3-2)
Last week: 23-13 LOSS at Michigan State
This week: vs No. 19 Iowa (3:30 ESPN2)
The Boilermakers finally taste defeat for the first time since week three. This was a predictable let-down game for Purdue. David Blough threw the ball 49 times. He had zero touchdowns and three interceptions. D.J. Knox was only able to get 51 yards on the ground, and one of his seven carries went for 36 yards. The Boilers only ran the ball 13 times.
Defensively, they allowed Spartans’ backup QB Rocky Lombardi to throw for 318 yards and two touchdowns in a pretty clean game for Lombardi.
Purdue still plays Wisconsin and Iowa, but with Northwestern a game ahead of them, they have a bit of an uphill climb to get back into the Big Ten West race. It could start this week by knocking off the Hawkeyes.
Previous Ranking: 6
T6. Michigan State (5-3, 3-2)
Last week: 23-13 WIN vs Purdue
This week: at Maryland (12:00 ESPN2)
This T6 group is tied because both teams are riding backup quarterbacks at the moment. Lombardi was the better of the two, leading his team to a win and playing a mistake free game, with zero interceptions and two touchdowns.
Michigan State has been playing injured all season. They’ve been one of the unluckiest teams with injuries. The QB position is rotating, the offensive line is decimated, their best WR is out, and the list goes on. However, they have still won a couple big games and can still salvage a decent season with a few more wins down the stretch.
Previous Ranking: 7
T6. Wisconsin (5-3, 3-2)
Last week: 31-17 LOSS at Northwestern
This week: vs Rutgers (12:00 BTN)
Wisconsin dropped, but not as much as they would have if Hornibrook was playing. He hasn’t been great, but it’s still tough to win on the road without your starting quarterback. Backup Jack Coan went 20-for-31 for 158 yards and a touchdown. Jonathan Taylor was the most disappointing, rushing for only 46 yards on one carry.
This loss hurts Wisconsin, but they still have a tiebreaker over Iowa and they still get to play Purdue. It will be tough, but they have a chance to still win a battered and broken West division.
Previous Ranking: 5
5. Northwestern (5-3, 5-1)
Last week: 31-17 WIN vs No. 20 Wisconsin
This week: vs No. 3 Notre Dame (7:15 ESPN)
Northwestern has taken almost total control over the West. They now have the tiebreaker over both Purdue and Wisconsin. They will have to go to Iowa but having two of the three tiebreakers is going to help the Cats.
This is the first time they’ve started 5-1 in the Big Ten since their last Rose Bowl trip in the 1995-96 season. Now they get a bit of a “break” from Big Ten play. I make that in quotes because they have to play Notre Dame this week. They are one of the nation’s best chances at knocking off Notre Dame, with some weak opponents remaining on Notre Dame’s schedule. However, right after that game the Cats will have to travel to Iowa. Buckle up Northwestern fans.
Previous Ranking: 8
4. Iowa (6-2, 3-2)
Last week: 30-24 LOSS vs No. 17 Penn State
This week: at Purdue (3:30 ESPN2)
Costly mistakes by Nate Stanley down the stretch cost Iowa the game and their top position in the Big Ten West. Stanley finished 18-for-49 (36.7 percent), with 205 yards and two interceptions. Their two touchdowns were a pick-six and a fake field goal.
The upside for Iowa is that they still get to play both Purdue and Northwestern in their last few weeks. They will have an opportunity to still get to Indianapolis and even further to Pasadena and the Rose Bowl. But they will need to win out to do this, and Stanley has to play better in order for that to happen.
Previous Ranking: 3
3. Penn State (6-2, 3-2)
Last week: 30-24 WIN vs No. 18 Iowa
This week: at No. 5 Michigan (3:45 ESPN)
The Big Ten East race is interesting. Michigan is first, but they still have to play Penn State and Ohio State. The Buckeyes are in second, but they still have to play at Michigan State and Michigan. With three teams sitting there with two losses, trying to shake things up, the Big Ten East could get very interesting down the stretch.
This was a big win for Penn State. They couldn’t afford to lose three straight home games, and their defense stepped up big in the win. McSorley was shaken up but returned to the game and scored a 51 yard rushing touchdown that helped seal the win for Penn State. Now the attention turns to his injury and if he will be good to go at the Big House Saturday afternoon.
Previous Ranking: 4
2. Ohio State (7-1, 4-1)
Last week: OFF
This week: vs Nebraska (12:00 FOX)
This was a big off week for Ohio State. They hadn’t looked good for several weeks and the Purdue game was the final sign of that. However, they get the bye week and don’t have any ranked teams on their schedule until they host Michigan. I’m sure Urban Meyer was able to rally the troops this week during the bye and I would be scared if I was a Nebraska fan.
Previous Ranking: 2
1. Michigan (7-1, 5-0)
Last week: 21-7 WIN at No. 24 Michigan State
This week: OFF
There is surely no shoe-in for Indianapolis from either division in the Big Ten. However, Michigan has certainly assumed the role of the favorite in the Big Ten. Fortunately for them, they have another big game at home in the Big House. With a week to recover and a possibly banged-up Trace McSorley, Michigan should be favored again this week and are starting to look toward a Michigan/Ohio State game for the East division championship.
Previous Ranking: 1
(11/01/18 2:36am)
A talented freshman who returns for their sophomore season is only expected to improve.
With a full year of experience under their belt, that in theory, will make them a better player the next season.
Indiana lost two of the program’s best players, but they return a sophomore class exploding with talent. No two players are going to be able to fill the shoes of Tyra Buss and Amanda Cahill, but this sophomore class will certainly contribute to the cause.
(10/26/18 2:53am)
Zach McRoberts has been the definition of a “glue player” in his time at Indiana.
He’s gone from not playing basketball, to walk-on bench player, defensive specialist and ultimately a starter. Last season, his minutes doubled, and he saw increases in almost every statistical category. His points, rebounds, steals and shooting are all on an upward trajectory.
Now as a senior, what will his role be on this talented Indiana team?
Captain McBob
The easy answer to what McRoberts’ role will be is a team captain. He and Juwan Morgan are the two captains for the 2018 Hoosiers, representing the Hoosiers at Big Ten Media Day.
McRoberts’ career has been all over the place. He started as a high-school star with the Carmel Greyhounds then played at Vermont his freshman year, before transferring to IU and sitting out a year in 2015-16. However, after missing basketball, he walked on to the team in 2016. Playing time wasn’t immediate, but his hard work took him from seeing very few minutes, to starting.
Through all his hard work and all the ups and downs, McRoberts’ teammates noticed and voted him team captain this season.
“Really appreciate my teammates voting for me, having that respect for me to put me in that position,” McRoberts said, “That’s something I really enjoy.”
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What does this mean for his role with the team? Archie Miller hopes it means leading Indiana to wherever he and Juwan want to lead them. Miller said that “sometimes the most successful guys embrace that last run” in their senior seasons, and he’s hoping McRoberts will follow suit.
Miller will turn to McRoberts for help throughout the season, making leadership one of his most important roles on a fairly young Hoosier team.
“If a game isn’t going well, how are you going to talk to your teammates during down time, during huddles, during halftime? If we’re not having a good practice, what are you going to say to get the team back in order?” Miller said. “Those are the challenges for those guys, and they know it.”
Hardest Working Player in the Country
When McRoberts ran onto the floor during Hoosier Hysteria, the PA announcer referred to him as the “hardest working player in the country.” McRoberts says he likes the name.
“I’ll take it. That’s a high honor and that’s nice to hear,” McRoberts said.
McRoberts finished the season second in steals in Big Ten games and fifth overall in the conference. He also set a Crossroads Classic record with seven offensive rebounds in the win over Notre Dame and ended the season averaging 1.3 steals per game and 1.25 offensive rebounds per game.
Outside of being captain, his effort plays on defense and aggressiveness on the glass could be his biggest role on this team. Miller knows he is going to give it everything he has each time he steps on the floor.
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“You know when he’s done with a workout, a practice or a game, there isn’t anybody in the locker room… that looks at him and says that guy did everything he possibly could for us today,” Miller said.
That type of attitude is an everyday thing for McRoberts. He knows his role, and in the past, he has filled it well with exceptional effort plays and a mindset of being the hardest worker on the floor.
“Just going in everyday with a mindset that you’re going to try and outwork everybody, then just try to earn your role every day,” McRoberts said. “I know nothing's ever given to you, so you just got to go in there, work hard and hopefully reap the rewards.”
Three-point shooter
Three-point shooting is possibly the most important role for McRoberts this season, because it will be new. This is the biggest unknown for those of us outside of practice who haven’t seen him since last season.
In the 2017-18 season, he was hesitant to shoot threes, even when left wide open. McRoberts shot 39.4 percent from beyond the arc, but only attempted 33 shots. Miller said he’s a much more confident open catch-and-shoot guy this season. He doesn’t want him to shoot all the time, but he wants him to be confident when he finds himself open.
“My hope for him is to be that guy they have a hard to leaving,” Miller said. “Make the open one. You don’t have to make 10 of them but make the open ones and be aggressive with your shot. He’s done that in practice right now, he’s shooting a good percentage.”
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His role on this team can certainly include being a three-point sharp shooter. McRoberts knew that, spending much of his offseason developing a confident shot.
“I’ve definitely been working on that," McRoberts said. "Everyday just working on my shot, being more comfortable out there.”
There isn’t just one role that McRoberts will fill this season. He’s a glue guy, and he can be utilized in many different ways this season. We know what he brings with his leadership and his work ethic, but if he can add a consistent, confident three-point shot to his arsenal, he will be someone on the top of opponent’s scouting reports.
His impact on this team won’t be able to be measured, but his role as a hard-working senior captain will be important with a young Indiana squad.
(10/25/18 12:12am)
What a win for Purdue. A team that was once 0-3 is now 4-3 after a dominating win over the Buckeyes. Michigan has moved up and now seems to be the national favorites in the conference. It’s crazy how things change over the season.
Meanwhile, the West is starting to heat up. Four teams have just one loss in conference play, and they almost all play each other coming down the stretch. Wisconsin still has to play at Northwestern and Purdue. Iowa still plays Northwestern and Purdue. You get the point. There’s a lot to be decided in the West.
There was a lot of shakeup this week. Check out the latest rankings right here…
14. Rutgers (1-7, 0-5)
Last week: 18-15 LOSS vs Northwestern
This week: OFF
Rutgers has to find a quarterback if they want to win games. Artur Sitkowski went 15-for-31 for 81 yards. The team only had 188 yards of total offense. However, their defense kept them in the game, holding Thorson to only 150 yards and a fumble. But the offensive woes proved too much for the Scarlet Knights to win.
Only ranked teams remain on the schedule for Rutgers, so it appears 1-11 is on the horizon for this Scarlet Knight squad.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Illinois (3-4, 1-3)
Last week: 49-20 LOSS at No. 23 Wisconsin
This week: at Maryland (3:30 BTN)
The two quarterbacks for the Illini combined for 9-of-21, 90 yards and three interceptions. That won’t get it down against any team, especially against a top-25 team like Wisconsin. The positive for Illinois was the running game, rushing for 210 yards and two scores. Reggie Corbin ran nine times for 100 yards and a touchdown.
A few weeks ago, I thought Illinois was improving, and they still may be. If they could win one or two more, that would be a success for Lovie Smith. It’s been a long rebuilding process, but if it keeps taking this long, Illini fans may lose patience with Smith and company in Champaign.
Previous Ranking: 13
12. Minnesota (3-4, 0-4)
Last week: 53-28 LOSS at Nebraska
This week: FRIDAY vs Indiana (8:00 FS1)
We wondered who would be the first team to lose to Nebraska. We now have our answer; the Minnesota Golden Gophers. P.J. Fleck turned to backup quarterback Tanner Morgan, who led them on three touchdown drives in the second half. However, the defense wasn’t anywhere near good enough, allowing 383 rushing yards and 276 passing yards. That’s 659 yards of total offense.
Now Minnesota has a quarterback controversy on their hands. That, plus a short week, will make things interesting in Minneapolis this week.
Previous Ranking: 11
11. Nebraska (1-6, 1-4)
Last week: 53-28 WIN vs Minnesota
This week: vs Bethune-Cookman (12:00)
First off, congratulations to Scott Frost on his first win as a Nebraska head coach. His team picked up right where they left off last week (albeit they lost), with Adrian Martinez going 25-for-29 for 276 yards and three touchdowns. The Huskers had three backs rush for 100+ yards.
It hasn’t been a great year for Nebraska, but I have seen this team improve each week. They’re getting better and better, and there is some promise in Lincoln that was on full display this past week. There’s a lot to be excited about for Husker fans.
Previous Ranking: 12
10. Indiana (4-4, 1-4)
Last week: 33-28 LOSS vs No. 18 Penn State
This week: FRIDAY at Minnesota (8:00 FS1)
Another game against a ranked team, another close, heartbreaking loss for the Hoosiers. It looked like something was in the air when Michael Penix Jr. came in for IU. While he was only 9-for-19, he orchestrated a couple solid drives for the Hoosiers. However, he was hurt early in the third quarter on a quarterback scramble and is now out for potentially the rest of the season.
The Hoosiers turned the ball over three times, plus the turnover on downs in the red zone.
In more positive news, Stevie Scott had his first good game in a while, running 26 times for 138 yards and two touchdowns. Peyton Ramsey finished 26-for-36 for 236 yards, one touchdown and an interception.
Now the Hoosiers head to Minneapolis for a must-win game against Minnesota.
Previous Ranking: 10
9. Maryland (4-3, 2-2)
Last week: 23-0 LOSS at No. 19 Iowa
This week: vs Illinois (3:30 BTN)
47 passing yards. That’s the most important stat of the game. That plus only 68 rushing yards is why Maryland was nowhere near contending with the Hawkeyes. I don’t see how you can possibly believe you can contend with Big Ten teams with 47 passing yards. Even last week in their blowout win against Rutgers, Maryland had less than 100 passing yards.
Maryland has been solid at home, but atrocious on the road. They’ll be back at home this next week to take on Illinois. I would expect Maryland to move within one game of bowl eligibility on Saturday.
Previous Ranking: 7
8. Northwestern (4-3, 4-1)
Last week: 18-15 WIN at Rutgers
This week: vs No. 20 Wisconsin (12:00)
Northwestern may have not played well, but they were able to find something in the ground game for the first time since Jeremy Larkin’s retirement. Freshman Isaiah Bowser ran 24 times for 108 yards and two touchdowns. On a day where Clayton Thorson struggled, they needed that from Bowser.
Northwestern is in the thick of things in the Big Ten West. The Cats, along with Purdue, Wisconsin and Iowa, all have one loss in conference play. I’m very intrigued with what will happen in the West.
Previous Ranking: 8
7. Michigan State (4-3, 2-2)
Last week: 21-7 LOSS vs No. 6 Michigan
This week: vs Purdue (12:00 ESPN)
This was a big game, and Michigan State laid an egg. Brian Lewerke, while playing through injury, really struggled. He went 5-for-25 for 66 yards. The running game wasn’t good either. L.J. Scott was the leading rusher, with 10 carries for 25 yards. The Spartans had only 94 yards of total offense.
The season is officially a wash for the Spartans. After the win in Happy Valley, there was some life in East Lansing. However, after this loss and the multitude of injuries surrounding the team, it’s time to pack it up and expect a Pinstripe bowl type of season for Sparty.
Previous Ranking: 4
6. Purdue (4-3, 3-1)
Last week: 49-20 WIN vs No. 2 Ohio State
This week: at Michigan State (12:00 ESPN)
Wow. Just wow. What a performance. David Blough threw for 378 yards and three touchdowns. D.J. Knox ran 16 times for 128 yards and three touchdowns. Rondale Moore had 194 yards from scrimmage. You pick whatever stat you thought was the best from this game, but I’m still in disbelief from this result.
All of the sudden, Purdue could be viewed as the favorite in the West. Both Wisconsin and Iowa have to come to Purdue before the season is over. Watch out for the Boilers, who are now on everyone’s radar after that thumping of Ohio State.
Previous Ranking: 9
5. Wisconsin (5-2, 3-1)
Last week: 49-20 WIN vs Illinois
This week: at Northwestern (12:00)
With how things have gone the past few weeks, I don’t think Wisconsin should be the favorite in the West. I think they’re almost third or even fourth on my list of Big Ten West contenders. Hornibrook doesn’t impress me, throwing a pair of interceptions this past week. While the rushing attack is spectacular, they’re going to need to pass the ball to win games.
This week is the biggest test to date for Wisconsin. Yes, they won at Iowa, but they have to win at Northwestern now. With so many teams in contention, any loss is a big one.
Previous Ranking: 5
4. Penn State (5-2, 2-2)
Last week: 33-28 WIN at Indiana
This week: vs No. 18 Iowa (3:30 ESPN)
I don’t think Penn State is as good as we thought. They had lost two straight and found themselves on the wrong end of the score in the second half in Bloomington. While they were able to pull out the win, nothing about that performance was convincing.
McSorley threw for 220 yards and an interception. He was also their leading rusher, running for 107 yards and two touchdowns. However, their rush defense was less than stellar, and while they had some great kick returns, they muffed several punt returns and were fortunate to recover them.
Penn State will most likely need to win out to have a chance at a New Year’s Six bowl, and that is unlikely with their remaining schedule.
Previous Ranking: 3
3. Iowa (6-1, 3-1)
Last week: 23-0 WIN vs Maryland
This week: at No. 17 Penn State (3:30 ESPN)
Nate Stanley went 11-for-22 for 86 yards, a touchdown and an interception. So why would I move Iowa up to No. 3 in the Big Ten?
They found a way to win big over a solid Maryland team without a heavy passing attack. They kept the ball on the ground, running for 224 yards. They held Maryland in check, only allowing 115 total yards. I truly believe that Iowa should be the favorite in the West and that they are a top-three team in the conference, albeit a struggling conference.
Previous Ranking: 6
2. Ohio State (7-1, 4-1)
Last week: 49-20 LOSS at Purdue
This week: OFF
Don’t look at Haskin’s stats. Yeah, he threw for 470 yards, but he threw 73 times. 73 times! The ground game produced nothing, the defense couldn’t stop Purdue, and it never felt like Ohio State was in this game.
What an absolutely embarrassing performance. Not to take anything away from Purdue, they played great, but it never felt like Ohio State was there. They’re not out of Big Ten championship contention or playoff contention, but now they have to win out. And with Michigan looking really good, that season finale could be a lot of fun.
Previous Ranking: 1
1. Michigan (7-1, 5-0)
Last week: 21-7 WIN at No. 24 Michigan State
This week: OFF
Welcome to the top Michigan. It was sloppy, but it’s still a big win for the Wolverines. In a season where top-10 teams are being upset left and right, any win, especially on the road, is a big win. Shea Patterson threw for 212 yards and two touchdowns, while Karan Higdon ran for 144 yards. The defense was phenomenal (see Michigan State section), with four sacks and seven tackles for loss.
Now, with a bye week, Michigan starts to focus on a Big Ten championship. The Wolverines still have Penn State and a trip to Columbus on the schedule. Win and you’re in for Michigan.
Previous Ranking: 2
(10/17/18 9:53pm)
The Wolverines made a big statement with a resounding victory over Wisconsin. Ohio State continues to look slightly beatable, while still winning by multiple scores. Purdue seems to be back, while Indiana is trending the wrong direction. Finally, Nebraska was so close to win, but their potential has moved them up a spot.
Check out my updated rankings here…
14. Rutgers (1-6, 0-4)
Last week: 34-7 LOSS at Maryland
This week: vs Northwestern (12:00 BTN)
Another week, another embarrassing loss for Rutgers. This time, it was with local east coast foe Maryland. Here are the stats that tell the story.
Artur Sitkowski: 2-for-16, 8 yards and four interceptions
Giovanni Rescigno: 0/1, interception
That’s about all that needs to be said at Rutgers, who has permanently placed themselves in 14th.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Illinois (3-3, 1-2)
Last week: 46-7 WIN at Illinois
This week: at No. 23 Wisconsin (12:00 FS1)
All of my optimism about Illinois football quickly vanished on Saturday afternoon. Illinois was only able to run for 69 yards as a team on 31 carries. The passing game wasn’t much better, with Bush throwing for 170 yards and an interception. Meanwhile, they allowed Purdue’s D.J. Knox to run for 150 yards and David Blough to throw for 377 yards and three touchdowns.
Illinois still has to play Nebraska, so we will find out who is the better team when that matchup takes place. Records say Illinois, but my eyes tell me Nebraska has more potential.
Previous Ranking: 11
12. Nebraska (0-6, 0-4)
Last week: 34-31 LOSS (OT) at Northwestern
This week: vs Minnesota (3:30 BTN)
The Huskers were so close to a win, but a passive game plan down the stretch, both offensively and defensively, cost Scott Frost his first win as Nebraska’s head coach. However, we’re seeing the potential in this team. Adrian Martinez was able to throw for 251 yards, while Devine Ozigbo ran for 159 yards and two touchdowns.
However, the defense allowed Clayton Thorson to throw for 455 yards and three touchdowns. That plus their three turnovers doomed the Huskers, who will head back home for a very winnable game against the Gophers.
Previous Ranking: 13
11. Minnesota (3-3, 0-3)
Last week: 30-14 LOSS at No. 3 Ohio State
This week: at Nebraska (3:30 BTN)
You’ve got to give a lot of credit to the Gophers for their fight this past weekend in Columbus. While Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins had a great day through the air, the Buckeyes couldn’t muster 100 yards on the ground. The Gophers had a great day on the ground, with Mohamed Ibrahim rushing for 157 yards and two touchdowns.
However, true freshman Zack Annexstad struggled in a hostile environment, going 13-for-23 for 218 yards and two interceptions. These will be important learning opportunities for the young quarterback as he continues to get more and more comfortable in Fleck’s offense and Big Ten football in general.
Previous Ranking: 12
10. Indiana (4-3, 1-3)
Last week: 42-16 LOSS vs Iowa
This week: vs No. 18 Penn State (3:30 ABC)
This was possibly Indiana’s ugliest game in quite a while. The Hoosiers were out of this game from the get-go. With the combination of poor tackling, undisciplined football and bad offensively play calling, the Hoosiers proved no threat to the Hawkeyes.
Nate Stanley threw for six touchdowns, while the defense had only one sack and three tackles for loss.
Peyton Ramsey threw two interceptions, while the running game contributed 67 yards on 25 carries. The offense has become completely one-dimensional, giving up on the run game, or trying it in the wrong times. The optimism that was surrounding this team in the first half of the season is gone, and there are some fans wondering if this team will even make a bowl game anymore.
Previous Ranking: T8
9. Purdue (3-3, 2-1)
Last week: 46-7 WIN at Illinois
This week: vs No. 2 Ohio State (7:30 ABC)
Okay, I think it’s time to get back on the Purdue bandwagon. I know, they’ve defeated Nebraska and Illinois in their last two games, but it has been definitive. Purdue is leaving no doubt that they are much better than Nebraska and Illinois, and they don’t belong in the bottom of the Big Ten.
David Blough continues to put up incredible numbers, while they finally got a good game from D.J. Knox on the ground (stats above under Illinois). If this team can be two-dimensional, pairing with a solid and stout defense, Purdue will get things back on track and appear in back-to-back bowl games.
Previous Ranking: 10
8. Northwestern (3-3, 3-1)
Last week: 34-31 WIN (OT) vs Nebraska
This week: at Rutgers (12:00 BTN)
Northwestern won, but it wasn’t convincing. I know, I’m being a little picky, but an overtime win at home against winless Nebraska doesn’t exactly equal a vote of confidence.
It was a big win for the Wildcats as they try to stay within striking distance of Wisconsin and Iowa in the Big Ten West. Thorson had another incredible game (look under Nebraska), but the running game still couldn’t get anything going. The team ran 23 times for 32 yards. Ever since losing Jeremy Larkin to retirement, this team has been completely one-dimensional. That won’t get it done against some of the better teams in the conference.
Previous Ranking: 7
7. Maryland (4-2, 2-1)
Last week: 34-7 WIN vs Rutgers
This week: at No. 19 Iowa (12:00 ESPN2)
I can’t figure out Maryland. My hunch says they are a solid team that will be a bowl game and can give some top teams fits. However, they aren’t an elite Big Ten team.
This past week didn’t teach us a whole lot. They ran for 290 yards, while Kasim Hill threw for three touchdowns. However, he only had 76 yards and eight completions.
If Maryland wants to hang around and shock some teams in the Big Ten, they will need to establish an aerial attack. This week will be an interesting test for the Terrapins.
Previous Ranking: T8
6. Iowa (5-1, 2-1)
Last week: 42-16 WIN at Indiana
This week: vs Maryland (12:00 ESPN2)
It was a dominating performance in Bloomington for the Hawkeyes. Nate Stanley threw for six touchdowns and the Hawkeyes seemed invincible on both sides of the ball. It felt like the Hawkeyes were dosed in butter because they couldn’t be tackled.
Enough of that, I think Iowa is really good. I think they are probably better than Wisconsin, but because they lost to the Badgers I feel obligated to have them behind them by a spot.
However, with the latest Wisconsin loss at the Big House, that opens the door slightly for Iowa to get back in the west race.
Previous Ranking: 5
5. Wisconsin (4-2, 2-1)
Last week: 38-13 LOSS at No. 12 Michigan
This week: vs Illinois (12:00 FS1)
This was ugly. It was quite a way to eliminate themselves from the playoff conversation and to bring others back into the race in the Big Ten West. Alex Hornibrook went 7-for-20 for 100 yards and two interceptions. Jonathan Taylor was held to 101 yards (that’s well under his 158.3 yards per game). The defense allowed 320 yards on the ground, while forcing zero Michigan turnovers.
Wisconsin still has the tiebreaker in the west over Iowa, but now Purdue and Northwestern are adding themselves to the list. With Wisconsin’s loss, there are now four teams in the west with one loss, making for a compelling finish to the season.
Previous Ranking: 4
4. Michigan State (4-2, 2-1)
Last week: 21-17 WIN at No. 8 Penn State
This week: vs No. 6 Michigan (12:00 FOX)
Alright Sparty, I see you. That’s one way to bounce back off a disappointing home loss. The Spartans went into College Park, and while it wasn’t pretty, they upset the Nittany Lions and got themselves back into the race in the East, albeit still a steep uphill climb.
Lewerke was forced to throw the ball 52 times, but he was effective, throwing for 259 yards and two touchdowns. The ground game wasn’t incredible, but it was enough to make themselves slightly two-dimensional.
The defense didn’t get any pressure on McSorley, recording only one sack. However, a win is a win, and Michigan State sets them up much better for their rivalry matchup with Michigan.
Previous Ranking: 6
3. Penn State (4-2, 1-2)
Last week: 21-17 LOSS vs Michigan State
This week: at Indiana (3:30 ABC)
Yikes. Penn State’s playoff hopes are crushed in week seven. Back-to-back late-game defeats eliminate Penn State not only from the playoff race but from the conference race as well. Two straight games at home, two straight defeats. That’s not what the Nittany Lions drew up for this season.
Miles Sanders ran 17 times for 162 yards and a touchdown. McSorley, wasn’t incredible, throwing for 192 yards and a touchdown, while fumbling once. Michigan State fumbled four times, but none of them were recovered by the Nittany Lions. Those are missed opportunities that ended up hurting Penn State.
Previous Ranking: 3
2. Michigan (6-1, 4-0)
Last week: 38-13 WIN vs No. 15 Wisconsin
This week: at No. 24 Michigan State (12:00 FOX)
Alright, it’s time to buy the Wolverines. Their kryptonite was always teams equal or better than them. Any game that was a tossup it seemed Michigan always lost. However, they changed this storyline on Saturday with a convincing win over a ranked Wisconsin team, a matchup they would have lost in previous years.
The next step is to back this up. They’re ranked No. 6 in the country and are the favorites, alongside Ohio State, to make it out of the Big Ten into the playoff. However, a few rivalries still stand in the way of this, starting this weekend against Michigan State.
Previous Ranking: 2
1. Ohio State (7-0, 4-0)
Last week: 30-14 WIN vs Minnesota
This week: at Purdue (7:30 ABC)
I’m not sure what to read about these past few weeks for Ohio State. They’ve both been double-digit victories, but they haven’t been convincing. First, Indiana was down only nine heading into the fourth quarter, then Minnesota missed a field goal late in the fourth to make it a one possession game before Ohio State scored to put the game out of reach late.
Back to back close games at home against middle-to-bottom tier Big Ten teams. If the Buckeyes continue to play sloppy this week, a trip to West Lafayette could become a lot harder than it needs to be. They will be favored in every game remaining and will be picked by many to be the playoff representative from the Big Ten. However, games like a road trip to Purdue can be tricky if they’re not prepared.
Previous Ranking: 1
(10/16/18 10:04pm)
[embed]https://soundcloud.com/user-303673382/the-other-guys-s2-e5-austins-big-tweet[/embed]
The guys are back to discuss Austin's trip to Rosemont, Illinois for Big Ten Media Days, Kurts NBA takes and Connor's love for Ukrainian tennis. And once again, Mark didn't bring a hot take. Take a listen.
(10/10/18 8:25pm)
Michigan State takes one of the biggest tumbles of any team this season, dropping from fourth to a tie for sixth, while Northwestern moves up. The cream of the crop is rising, while the middle is still murky. I have solid opinions on most teams, while I’m still creating opinions on teams like Maryland, Indiana and Purdue.
Here’s how I have the conference stacking up heading into week seven…
14. Rutgers (1-5, 0-3)
Last week: 38-17 LOSS vs Illinois
This week: at Maryland (12:00 BTN)
This could have been the last chance Rutgers had this season to get another win, and they were embarrassed at home against Illinois. Sitkowski had another rough outing, being forced to throw the football 49 times. He threw for 267 yards and a touchdown, but he also tossed three interceptions. He also fumbled once, but it was recovered by Rutgers. They can’t afford to turn the ball over so many times and expect to beat anyone.
I had Rutgers near the top ten at the beginning of the season because I thought they were making some progress. Any progress this team was making is now gone, and I would imagine Chris Ash could also be gone soon if this continues.
Previous Ranking: 14
13. Nebraska (0-5, 0-3)
Last week: 41-24 LOSS at No. 16 Wisconsin
This week: at Northwestern (12:00 ABC)
Three straight Big Ten losses for the Huskers and they’ve allowed 40 or more points in all three.
It has been a tough start to the Big Ten season for Nebraska, taking on Michigan, Purdue and Wisconsin. This week, Nebraska struggled defending the run, which lots of teams will do against Nebraska. The Badgers ran for 370 yards and four touchdowns, including 221 yards and three touchdowns from Jonathan Taylor.
It was arguably Adrian Martinez’s best game as a Husker, throwing for 384 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for 57 yards and another touchdown. However, their backs combined to rush for 56 yards on 10 carries. I will continue to say that you need to give Frost some time. He shouldn’t be judged by his results this week, but he needs to get a win at some point soon or else this fan base may come unhinged.
Previous Ranking: 13
12. Minnesota (3-2, 0-2)
Last week: 48-31 LOSS vs Iowa
This week: at No. 3 Ohio State (12:00 FS1)
Minnesota struggled a few weeks ago at Maryland. They were on a bye the week afterward, but this past weekend, after the bye, they came out and struggled again, this time allowing 48 points to Iowa. The Hawkeyes hadn’t scored 40 points in any game this season, and they ran up 48 points on the Gophers.
After having thrown zero interceptions in non-conference games, he has been welcomed into Big Ten play with five interceptions in his first two conference games. He threw for 218 yards, three touchdowns and three picks against Iowa last week. His three turnovers plus a poor rushing attack and bad defense created Minnesota’s second straight loss. Things aren’t going to get any better this week when they head to the Horseshoe.
Previous Ranking: 11
11. Illinois (3-2, 1-1)
Last week: 38-17 WIN at Rutgers
This week: vs Purdue (3:30 BTN)
Illinois has a winning record heading into week seven of the college football season. How about that?
AJ Bush was back against Rutgers. He didn’t have to do much with his arm, throwing the ball only 18 times for 89 yards and a touchdown. However, Bush made an impact with his legs, rushing for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Illini as a team ran for 330 yards and four touchdowns.
Not only are the Illini 3-2, but they now go back home to take on a 2-3 Purdue team. Illinois has a chance to be 4-2 and start thinking about going to a bowl game. This all could be an overreaction, but this team seems to be turning things around in year three of Lovie Smith.
Previous Ranking: 12
10. Purdue (2-3, 1-1)
Last week: OFF
This week: at Illinois (3:30 BTN)
I don’t have anything to add about Purdue at the moment after their bye week. They’re better than their record, and they will have chances to prove that this season.
However, they better not sleep on Illinois. This is a better Illini team than in years past.
Previous Ranking: 10
T8. Indiana (4-2, 1-2)
Last week: 49-26 LOSS at No. 3 Ohio State
This week: vs Iowa (12:00 ESPN2)
Indiana kept things close in Columbus for a lot longer than most people thought. This was still a game as it crept into the fourth quarter. However, the Buckeyes ran away with it in the fourth to win the game pretty handedly.
This was arguably Peyton Ramsey’s best game, finishing with 322 yards and three touchdowns on 49 pass attempts. However, it was arguably the secondary’s worst game of the season. Dwayne Haskins threw for 455 yards and six touchdowns. The defense as a whole only had one sack and three tackles for loss.
There were positives from this game for the Hoosiers, but there was also the same narrative as always: Indiana can’t finish against top-tier teams. It feels like it’s coming, but it always feels that way, and never happens. Indiana will have some chances in the next two weeks to change that narrative.
Previous Ranking: 8
T8. Maryland (3-2, 1-1)
Last week: 42-21 LOSS at No. 15 Michigan
This week: vs Rutgers (12:00 BTN)
I was ready to praise Maryland if they could hang around with Michigan. However, they were beat down pretty badly at the Big House, and the Terrapins will return home having slipped in the rankings just a bit.
A lot of teams will struggle against Michigan’s defense, but there was no resemblance of an aerial attack, as Hill was 5-for-10 for 62 yards and an interception. The defense ended with zero sacks and only two tackles for loss, unable to get any penetration against the Michigan offensive line.
This should be a good opportunity to bounce back against Rutgers this week. Maryland will have some more opportunities to either pull a big upset or to just win some games in order to make a bowl game.
Previous Ranking: 7
T6. Northwestern (2-3, 2-1)
Last week: 29-19 WIN at No. 20 Michigan State
This week: vs Nebraska (12:00 ABC)
I’ve been waiting on this big win for Northwestern, because I believe they are better than their record shows, and with that win last weekend, I could finally move them up my rankings. I thought they would do it last week, but they squandered another lead. While they almost did it again this weekend, a big fourth quarter touchdown sealed the 10-point win over the previously ranked Michigan State Spartans.
While he threw two interceptions, Thorson was pretty solid, throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns. The issue for Northwestern, after the retirement of Jeremy Larkin, is that they don’t have a running game. The Wildcats ran for 8 yards on 20 carries. That is a long-term issue that Pat Fitzgerald and company will need to figure out.
Previous Ranking: 9
T6. Michigan State (3-2, 1-1)
Last week: 29-19 LOSS vs Northwestern
This week: at No. 8 Penn State
Last week, I said I wasn’t too worried about Michigan State, after almost losing their lead against Central Michigan. However, I am now very worried about Michigan State after their latest loss, this time at home to Northwestern.
Lewerke had one of his best games of the season, throwing for 329 yards and a touchdown. However, they couldn’t get any sort of ground game going, rushing for under 100 yards as a team.
It is officially time to eliminate the Spartans from Big Ten Championship conversation. Now the Spartans need to avoid having another season like 2016, starting with high expectations and then missing a bowl game. I’m not saying they will, but they need to turn things around quick in the difficult Big Ten.
Previous Ranking: 4
5. Iowa (4-1, 1-1)
Last week: 48-31 WIN at Minnesota
This week: at Indiana (12:00 ESPN2)
Anything can happen in a rivalry game. That includes Iowa scoring 48 points. The Hawkeyes tore up the Gopher defense and held onto the Pig. Nate Stanley threw for 314 yards and four touchdowns while the defense had five sacks and three interceptions.
There still isn’t a lot to say about Iowa. They go about their business, but they missed their big chance against Wisconsin, so Indianapolis is probably out of the question. So Iowa will continue to win these games and get themselves into a decent bowl game.
Previous Ranking: 6
4. Wisconsin (4-1, 2-0)
Last week: 41-24 WIN vs Nebraska
This week: at No. 12 Michigan (7:30 ABC)
There isn’t a whole lot to take away from a home win against Nebraska, but that will change quickly when Wisconsin heads to the Big House for a primetime showdown.
Heisman candidate Jonathan Taylor continues to put up video-game numbers. After a 221 yard and three touchdown night from Taylor against Nebraska, he’s up to 849 yards and eight touchdowns for the season. He’s averaging 6.7 yards per carry and 170 yards per game this season. They will need him to be solid again against the incredible rush defense of Michigan, taking some of the pressure off Alex Hornibrook and the passing attack.
Previous Ranking: 5
3. Penn State (4-1, 1-1)
Last week: OFF
This week: vs Michigan State (3:30)
Well, Penn State got a week off to regroup after an emotional loss against the Buckeyes. Now, they get a fired-up Michigan State team coming off a disappointing home loss.
Everyone seems to be eliminating the Nittany Lions after only one loss. As disappointing as a loss at home was, especially in the fashion in which they lost, they aren’t out of the playoff conversation yet. But they will need to win out and get some help in the conference in order to get back in the hunt.
Previous Ranking: 2
2. Michigan (5-1, 3-0)
Last week: 42-21 WIN vs Maryland
This week: vs No. 15 Wisconsin (7:30 ABC)
I’m starting to fall into Michigan’s yearly trap. They continue to beat up on mediocre opponents, so I start to believe in them as a contender. The reason most people are skeptical is that their wins this season are against Western Michigan, SMU, Nebraska, Northwestern and Maryland. Western Michigan and Maryland are the only two teams with winning records.
Everyone says if they can beat a good team, then they will start believing in Michigan. Well, the lights will be shining bright this Saturday when Wisconsin comes to town. A win in this game could not only get people to believe in the Wolverines but get them one step closer to a showdown with Ohio State at the end of the season.
Previous Ranking: 3
1. Ohio State (6-0, 3-0)
Last week: 49-26 WIN vs Indiana
This week: vs Minnesota (12:00 FS1)
It was a sloppy game for Ohio State, and they still won by 23. They turned the ball over three times, and still won by 23. Indiana torched Ohio State’s secondary, and they still won by 23. Let’s just say the Buckeyes are pretty dominant.
Dwayne Haskins was incredible, throwing for 455 yards and six touchdowns. The defense wasn’t fantastic against the Hoosiers, and I’m sure that’s one of the things Urban Meyer will try and fix.
Michigan is the only ranked team remaining on their schedule, and their next three games are against Minnesota, Purdue and Nebraska. The point is, Ohio State has plenty of time to work on some of their defensive issues, specifically defending the big play, before their games against Michigan State and Michigan.
Previous Ranking: 1