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(11/22/21 4:31am)
In the first half Indiana held Louisiana to 11.8 percent from the field on 4-for-34 shooting. It was clear the Hoosiers defense was too much for the Ragin Cajuns to handle from the get-go in an eventual 76-44 win.
Louisiana’s 14 first-half points ties the fewest the Hoosiers have given up since March 2, 2013, against Iowa.
The game ended with Indiana holding Louisiana to 14-for-73, or 19.2 percent, from the field. The Ragin Cajuns shot 2-for-20 from beyond the arc as well. This quick, energized and swarming start from Indiana on the defensive end has been around for the first four games of the season.
Opponents' first-half percentages:
11/9- vs Eastern Michigan: 22.58 percent from the field and 25 percent from 3
11/12- vs Northern Illinois: 23.81 percent from the field and 20 percent from 3
11/17- vs St. John’s: 33.33 percent from the field and 25 percent from 3
11/21- vs Louisiana: 11.8 percent from the field and 10 percent from 3
Out of Indiana’s first four opponents, no team has matched IU's early defensive energy. Now, given the small sample size, where did all of this come from? From a team that held opponents to an average of 43 percent from the field last season?
That answer isn’t as simple as it sounds. There's not one addition or new player making a significant difference, but it’s safe to argue that Race Thompson and Trayce Jackson-Davis have made the greatest defensive improvements, not any of the new additions.
In just four games this season, preseason All-American Jackson-Davis has totaled 14 blocks, half of which he had in one game against Northern Illinois. That's pace for an outstanding 108.5, excluding postseason play. That’s Big Ten defensive player of the year numbers. That’s also 49.5 blocks higher than his season high of 59 which he had his freshman year.
(11/18/21 5:31pm)
It felt like March on a Wednesday night in November. Assembly Hall was loud and anxiety-filled as it would be in a big conference game, but this time Indiana wasn’t facing Ohio State, Purdue, Michigan State or Michigan. They were playing St. Johns.
A Big East opponent who hasn’t had an at-large bid in the NCAA tournament since the 2014-15 season was the cause of all the excitement in Bloomington.
But that excitement is deserved for a team like Indiana, and IU showed why in a 76-74 win over the Red Storm.
Indiana got off to a quick start, forcing nine turnovers in the first half, and holding St. John’s to 33 percent from the field and 25 percent from deep. This was in large part due to the three blocks and seven steals mustered by Mike Woodson’s squad in the first half.
The Hoosiers were swarming, playing with pace and most importantly energy. The Assembly Hall crowd also played a massive role early. St. John’s hasn’t experienced anything like it and they couldn’t get settled.
This momentum swung in the second half as St. John’s got off to a hot start and shot 40 percent from deep in the as a team in the half.
The Red Storm tightened things up to open the second half. They were so aggressive, great at denying entry passes to preseason All-American Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Indiana’s ball handlers were having a tough time as well being strong with the ball. In the first eight minutes of the second half the Hoosiers had six turnovers.
A bad trend for Indiana is clearly the free-throw shooting. Indiana struggled mightily from the line yet again. The Hoosiers shot 10-for-19 from the line, 52.6 percent. It’s been a sore spot all year, and something that will be an emphasis moving forward.
The glass was also not kind to Indiana in the second half. They were out rebounded and allowed seven offensive boards.
At the end of the day it was the bench contributions from Indiana which got it done.
Freshman Tamar Bates had 11 points in the first half and kept St. John’s at a distance. He showed his wide skill set knocking down two critical mid-range jump shots and a deep 3.
Then, a surprising pair of substitutions around the 10-minute mark in the second half gave the Hoosiers a boost. It was Khristian Lander and Jordan Geronimo. The two sophomores may not have lit it up on the stat sheet but they served as a spark plug bringing the crowd back into it, hustling, and knocking down shots.
Khristian Lander: two points, one assist, one rebound in six minutes
Jordan Geronimo: seven points, five rebound in eight minutes
Geronimo ultimately had the task of guarding St. John’s star Julian Champagnie with the game on the line, up two with 8.4 seconds on the clock.
Going into the final possession, Champagnie had been absolutely lights out. He had 32 points and shot 50 percent on 12 3s. Deep breaths, sighs and groans were taken every shot he took.
Back to Geronimo. On the final possession, he locked up Champagnie as he forced up a deep contested 3 after juggling with the ball. It missed and Parker Stewart clutched the rebound. Indiana won.
"He (Geronimo) came in and he responded...my coaches were screaming at me to get him in the game,” Woodson said.
This moment when Woodson’s assistant coaches wanted Geronimo in the game? It was the final defensive possession and the final eight seconds.
(11/12/21 2:29pm)
The Hoosiers look to build off of a sneaky 68-62 victory over Eastern Michigan this Friday night at 7 p.m. against the Huskies of Northern Illinois.
NIU and first-year head coach Rashon Burno are coming off a surprising 71-64 road win at Washington last Tuesday. The Hoosiers must take the Huskies seriously and a key in doing this will be defending the deep ball.
Senior guard Trendon Hankerson tallied six 3s in a ridiculous stat line of 28 points and seven rebounds. As a team the Huskies shot 52.2 percent from beyond the arc on 23 attempts.
A weak spot is surely NIU’s size and rebounding. Despite the victory the Huskies were out-rebounded 51-37. The Hoosiers will need to play fast and out-rebound the Huskies, who play scrappy on defense.
It’s also notable that NIU turned the ball over 20 times. Yes, 20. Transition points will be huge for Indiana as the Hoosiers look to improve on a rough shooting outing against Eastern Michigan.
Indiana was in control the whole way through -- well, until the last five minutes -- but struggled putting the ball in the bottom of the net.
The matchup should be a springboard for the Hoosiers and the rest of the season, but it’s important not to overlook Northern Illinois like Washington did.
(11/10/21 3:17am)
While it was not the season opening blowout the Hoosiers wanted, they most importantly showed resilience over Eastern Michigan. They won a challenge, 68-62. While it may not have been the one they expected, it was a challenge.
When it seemed like Eagles guard Noah Farrakhan was making everything he shot down the stretch, the Hoosiers didn’t back down and stayed in the fight.
The most important thing for IU and Mike Woodson, they got the win, even if it was just by six points.
That win came in part due to the strong play of Indiana's point guards, who responded to adversity and stayed cool under pressure.
It was 44 seconds after IU point guard Xavier Johnson, who transferred from Pittsburgh, committed his third turnover in five minutes that he was subbed out. Rob Phinisee checked into the game in his place, just six minutes into the game.
It was nine long minutes that Johnson sat on the bench. When he came back in with five minutes left in the first half he knocked down a 3, hit three free throws and most importantly didn’t turn the ball over.
In his time at Pittsburgh, Johnson was known for playing fast -- almost too fast. Johnson averaged nearly four turnovers a game. On Tuesday against Eastern Michigan, after the first five minutes, he slowed down and it paid off for him.
Johnson said that after he was subbed out the first time, “Coach (Woodson) told me to stop being so cool with the ball and that's what I did.”
Right there alongside him in the game was another guy who’s paid his dues and is fighting for the starting point guard spot: Phinisee.
The two-guard duo was patient and precise, combining for 21 points, five assists and five turnovers. Down the stretch they were crucial, not turning the ball over and taking on the task of making Farrakhan miss. They led the Hoosiers to a 68 to 62 win over Eastern Michigan in the season opener.
Xavier Johnson: 14 points; three assists; two rebounds
Rob Phinisee: seven points; two assists; one rebound
Although, where was the other guy in conversation for the point guard battle, Khristian Lander?
Despite the Hoosiers holding at least a 10-point lead throughout the entire first half and a 21-point lead in the second, Lander never subbed in.
Lander, a former five-star recruit, was expected by many to take on an increased role this season and his lacking presence in the Eastern Michigan win was surprising.
Woodson just didn’t seem to use many substitutions in the second half and when things got sticky midway through the second half it didn’t seem as if Woodson was going to change much of the game plan. He needed his best on the court as that lead slowly slipped away.
"We got soft," Woodson said. "We were comfortable with the lead."
That's simply what happened: a wake-up call.
Lander’s presence was another question mark that added onto another tough spot for the Hoosiers: shooting. It can’t get much worse than it was the last few years for IU from behind the arc but Tuesday it was really rough.
The Hoosiers shot 42 percent from the field, 16.7 percent from 3 on 24 attempts, 0-for-9 in the second half and 60 percent from the free-throw line.
The free throw woes also continued for Trayce Jackson-Davis as down the stretch he was 3-for-8.
The shooting was the most disheartening thing for Indiana fans. So much emphasis was placed on shooting over the offseason, and Woodson said he hoped they were bound to break through.
“We're missing a lot of wide-open 3s right now...these are the same guys who are making them in practice,” Woodson said.
The shots should eventually fall for Indiana, they have the shooters in Parker Stewart and Miller Kopp but Tuesday, IU couldn’t buy one.
Tuesday served as a wake-up call for and an early test for Indiana but the Hoosiers will look to have a better showing on Friday night against Northern Illinois.
(11/09/21 7:42pm)
It’s been a long offseason. Archie Miller is no more and the now Mike Woodson-led Hoosiers start a new era of basketball this week. Expectations have always been important for Indiana basketball, because they’ve always had them.
This year something just feels different. It’s time to have a way too early roundtable overview from our team covering Indiana basketball this season.
William McDermott, Zak Ibrahim and Jack Edwards discuss some of the season's biggest question marks.
Which Indiana newcomer will make the biggest difference?
William: The easy answer for me is Northwestern transfer Miller Kopp. He’s been inserted into the starting lineup and provides size and a 3-ball. At 6-foot-7 he has length and can be a force defensively if he puts the work in. Woodson said rebounding and defense are Kopp’s biggest question marks.
Zak: I’d have to say Miller Kopp. He brings an outside scoring element to Indiana which perfectly complements an offense looking to work inside-out. A career 36 percent 3-point shooter at Northwestern, Kopp should get the same amount of looks with the difference being the quality of them. More open looks equal more makes for a player with gifted shooting touch from distance.
Jack: Xavier Johnson won the point guard spot for the season opener against Eastern Michigan, and with Rob Phinisee hot on his tail, that inter-squad battle could be golden for Indiana. In a team with a clear goal of shooting the 3 better, a guard who can move the ball like Johnson will be necessary. He led the ACC in possession and assist rate, making himself a big part of Pittsburgh’s offense. Alongside Kopp and Parker Stewart, he will elevate their game as part of a trio of transfers in the backcourt.
What non-conference game stands out the most to you and why?
Zak: Has to be their game against Syracuse. Not only do the Orange themselves create a challenge for IU but the atmosphere inside a hostile environment surely will be. It gives the Hoosiers an excellent opportunity to gauge themselves and how they compete with a team outside of the Big Ten. It also comes before back-to-back games against Nebraska and Wisconsin to open up conference play.
Jack: Traveling to the Carrier Dome is a daunting task for Woodson’s men, against a team they haven’t beaten since 1987. Syracuse will be good offensively (projected 18th best offensive efficiency in the nation according to KenPom), and this marks the biggest test early in the season of Indiana’s ability to get in a shootout and stick around. Indiana is favored in every game ahead of it (and heavily in many), and this will be the one where we can say if this iteration of Indiana might be for real.
William: Honestly I’m going with a bit of surprise but I’m saying next week’s St. John’s game. The Red Storm is a fringe NCAA bid contender and a win early on in the season would be huge for Woodson. Something Archie Miller never really was good at was winning the games he’s supposed to win. IU is surely on upset watch.
A point of emphasis from Mike Woodson this year has been 3-point shooting. How do you expect the Hoosiers to shoot from beyond the arc?
Jack: They will be better. Woodson isn’t a magician and can’t turn Trayce Jackson-Davis into a serious threat from beyond the arc, but there is an obvious shift in mentality that will lead to an uptick in makes from the junior and beyond. After years of a stated desire of improvement in shooting that wasn’t followed with results under Miller, I’m pessimistic until I can see more evidence. Losing your two best shooters in Armaan Franklin and Aljami Durham hurts, but the transfers will bring experience and a track record of making buckets. Last year they were ninth in the Big Ten in 3-point percentage. They move up two or three spots in my eyes, falling around 33-34 percent.
William: I think the percentages will improve in the grand scheme of things. Although, an issue I see with this team is that they are lacking a shot creator. Without Durham and Franklin, shot creating and shots off the dribble will be scarce. Someone will have to step up. I could see Parker Stewart as that guy.
Zak: Personnel suggests this team will be able to shoot the 3 at a much higher clip than in years past. The past four seasons never saw IU shoot better than 32 percent and I feel that number will increase this year along with the amount of makes. The more of a threat they are in the paint, the better looks they’ll get from outside. While they are missing an off-the-dribble shooter, it shouldn’t take more than knocking down spot-up 3s within the flow of the offense. I could see a solid 3 percent increase in their 3-point shooting this year.
Which player takes the biggest leap from last year?
William: Rob Phinisee. It feels weird putting a senior on here but Phinisee really struggled last year. From beyond the arc, the starting point guard shot 26 percent. That was down 7 percent from the 2019-20 season. He’s elite defensively and if he builds confidence and develops rhythm offensively it would go a long way in helping the Hoosiers.
Zak: With all this talk about shooting the 3, I’m tempted to say Anthony Leal. Last year the Bloomington native only made nine 3s in limited playing time. If Indiana wants to improve from the perimeter, this 3-point specialist will have to contribute.
The struggles for him emerged on the defensive side, but if he takes advantage of his open opportunities he will almost force his way onto the court.
Jack: Jordan Geronimo. The Hall is dying to chant some iteration of his last name, and I think he delivers that this year. His explosiveness, ability to sit back and learn from the experience ahead of him, and Woodson pushing him to expand his game make me very excited for his potential off the bench. Jackson-Davis spoke out about his shooting ability this year, adding further excitement. We saw glimpses last year, we’re ready for a bigger sample size.
What will be the most challenging aspect of this season?
Jack: Managing the herculean expectations of Woodson’s return and the history around the program. The season will have its lows, and how this team reacts to inevitable pessimism and negativity from fans and media will be huge. While the culture shift is very apparent, a lack of results can lead to apathy (looking at you, Memorial Stadium). Woodson will earn more patience, but he will also recognize the need to satisfy fans starved of success for many years.
William: Having fans back in the Big Ten. Indiana doesn’t head on the road until it goes against Syracuse but a Big Ten conference environment is going to be wild after a year with no fans. Although, this could be to the Hoosiers’ advantage.
Zak: Handling expectations will be the biggest challenge they face. Fans can anoint you as a team that will bounce back and make noise in March (which could happen) but you still have to take it game-by-game. Woodson will be the first to tell you that.
What does Mike Woodson provide that Archie Miller didn’t?
Zak: Woodson is both a leader and a teacher. He represents the best of Indiana basketball’s history along with an NBA pedigree. This creates a true presence on the sideline that players react and respond to. His insightful comments to his team show a passion to win along with a wealth of basketball knowledge which is bestowed upon us whenever he steps to a microphone.
William: The NBA talent Woodson has coached and been around is unmatched in college basketball. Miller was very reserved with everything he did was very under the radar. It’s important and has been clear early on for Woodson to maintain a jovial presence and image on social media and more.
Jack: Self-awareness. He’s done this at the NBA level, he knows what’s needed, and if it isn’t there, he will tell it like it is. That’s appreciated by fans and helps in my assessment of this team’s ability to handle adversity. He’s felt the pressure on his shoulders as a Hoosier player, and the national pressure of the NBA, and will be able to instill in his players the wisdom and reality required to find success.
What is your NCAA tournament seeding (if any) prediction?
Jack: This team is built to make waves in March. I see Indiana as the higher seed of one NCAA tournament game, as anywhere from a 6-8 seed, with the breakout potential for more in the tournament. While they won’t want expectations to be low, making the tournament will be a welcome improvement from everyone around the program.
William: I think Indiana finally gets over the hump and makes the NCAA Tournament this year. I think this team has a ceiling to be as high as a No. 6 seed but realistically I see around a No. 8 or No. 9. Not bad for Woodson’s first year back.
Zak: I see IU as a team that will challenge in the Big Ten and end up a possible 6 or 7 seed come March. We should be able to see what this team is made of early in its conference schedule with opportunities to impress down the stretch with many seeing them as a sleeper to win some tournament games. That would be a huge step in the right direction after the past few years.
(11/05/21 3:29pm)
It’s hard to be the head coach at a school like Indiana. The expectations are always going to be high.
If anyone was truly made for the job, most would be quick to say it has to be someone with Indiana in his or her veins.
Mike Woodson has Indiana in his veins and there’s a lot of hype and excitement surrounding the coach's first season courtside at Assembly Hall. There are always going to be some games that people circle heading into the season for obvious reasons, but here are some games that people might look back on in March and could define year one of Woodson’s tenure.
Let's get into it.
1. Syracuse
On Nov. 30 as part of the ACC/Big Ten Challenge the Hoosiers will travel to upstate New York to face the Orange in the Carrier Dome. The Orange made a run into the Sweet 16 last season and are always a contender come March.
This matchup intrigues me most because not only is it IU’s first big non-conference test, but it’s also the team's first road matchup and the Carrier Dome is gonna be rocking. I also think this game will test Woodson’s coaching and adjustment to the college level.
Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim runs a 2-3 matchup zone. The 2-3 zone clogs the paint and forces teams to shoot. And no, they don’t just switch into it at certain points of the game. They run it the entire game. This is a cold shooting team's worst nightmare and with how poorly IU shot the ball last year, if Hoosier shooters can’t find the bottom of the net it’s going to be a rough night.
How is Woodson going to find a way to get Trayce Jackson-Davis and the other big men involved?
You have to find holes in the zone and move the ball well. That’s the only way opportunities in the paint will open up.
The matchup against the Orange will prove a lot not only about the team and its improvements but also a lot about Woodson’s in-game coaching adjustments and preparation.
2. Purdue
Archie Miller never beat Purdue. Not once.
If Woodson can manage a win over the in-state rival in his first year at IU, he’s going to win over the fan base.
Purdue is loaded with returning talent and that’s the main reason it's a preseason top-10 team. The Boilermakers have dominated Indiana in recent years including two rough losses last season. I wonder how different Archie Miller’s tenure as a Hoosier would have been if he had beaten Purdue. It’s not a rivalry if only one team wins. That’s how I’ve always thought of it.
It will be key for Indiana to win the battles down low against the Boilermakers. This will be a TALL task as 6-foot-10 Trevion Williams returns for his senior season and 7-foot-4 Zach Edey gears up to be a rebounding and shot blocking machine. See what I did there?
Not many teams in the country have the size that Purdue does and Woodson's game plan is going to be critical. Whether it’s Jan. 20 or March 5 you have to think about how the results will impact Woody’s first year.
3. Wisconsin
The Hoosiers haven’t won a game at Wisconsin since Jan. 25, 1998.
And Indiana faces the Badgers as its first conference road opponent in early December.
Yes, since the 1998 season Indiana is 0-19 in Madison. It’s safe to say that this game is going to say a lot about how Indiana’s season will go. The Badgers are picked to finish in the bottom half of the conference this season and it should be a matchup in which Indiana is favored.
The players who were on last year's team may remember the 80-73 double-overtime loss and Woodson is going to have to prove himself early in a tough environment on the road.
It’s important for teams, Indiana especially, to get off to a quick start and set the tone early. The Hoosiers have struggled coming from behind or getting past a rough start in recent years. Is that something that will change in the Woodson era?
If Indiana can set the tone early, it could be smooth sailing and a big win for Woodson in his first Big Ten road environment.
4. Michigan
As much as I wanted to keep the Wolverines off of this list it’s really hard not to. Michigan is easily the preseason Big Ten favorite and the Wolverines come to Bloomington on Jan. 23.
Indiana is expected to be an underdog in the matchup and a strong performance could turn the tide of Indiana’s season depending on where the Hoosiers stand. This game's going to be won down low but it’ll be a tough task with second team All-American center Hunter Dickinson on the opposing bench.
Miller also never beat the Wolverines so it would be an extremely impressive start if Woody could pull it off.
Although, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Indiana just needs to impress. A win and Woodson has that resumé-building win for the NCAA Tournament. A loss and people may begin asking more questions based on where the Hoosiers really stand.
5. St. John’s
I struggled and struggled thinking of who to put here at the five spot, but I’m going with the Red Storm.
This game is in less than two weeks. That’s pretty crazy and I honestly believe this game is going to be very important when it comes to NCAA Tournament seeding. St. John’s is a fringe tournament team (as IU has been as well in recent years) and this head-to-head could decide who gets in.
For St. John’s, a non-conference win on the road in Assembly Hall would be huge and for Indiana, who will be favored, a win means survival and expectations.
This matchup signifies the ability for Woodson to win the games he should win. Something Miller never quite got good at.
Guard Julian Champagnie averaged 20 points per game last season and was lethal from beyond the arc. Game planning for him will be critical but for Woodson, the non-conference home games where you’re favored, you just have to win.
(10/27/21 8:48pm)
This upcoming week is easily the biggest week in the Big Ten so far. The in-state rivalry in East Lansing is shaping up to be the most important game in the Big Ten East race so far.
The first College Football Playoff rankings also come out next week. So we’re about to get a really good feeling of where everyone is at the top.
1. Ohio State
Last week: 54-7 win at Indiana
The Buckeyes proved they were the best team in the Big Ten last week and lit up a solid Indiana defense. Ohio State scored a touchdown on each of its first six possessions.
Next up: Vs No. 20 Penn State
2. Iowa
Last week: Bye week
Now that the annual Purdue upset game is out of the way, it’s only a matter of time before Iowa somehow finds a way to end up in Indianapolis.
Next up: At Wisconsin
3. Michigan
Last week: 33-7 win vs Northwestern
It’s been seven wins versus seven unranked teams for the Wolverines but the gauntlet is approaching as they head to East Lansing this weekend.
Next up: At No. 8 Michigan State
4. Michigan State
Last week: Bye week
LSU coaching rumors are swirling around Mel Tucker and Sparty right now. Let’s see if they can stay focused as they host an in-state rival from about an hour southeast.
Next up: Vs No. 6 Michigan
5. Penn State
Last week: 20-18 loss vs Illinois
The Nittany Lions hosted the longest game in college football history last weekend and only mustered 18 points. How is that even possible? Well, Penn State was just inefficient in all facets of the game.
Next up: At No. 5 Ohio State
6. Wisconsin
Last week: 30-13 win at No. 25 Purdue
Wisconsin and Graham Mertz only threw the ball eight times. Fifty-one rushes absolutely flattened the Boilermakers.
Next up: Vs No. 9 Iowa
7. Minnesota
Last week: 34-16 win vs Maryland
Minnesota has sneakily climbed the past few weeks and if you take away the Bowling Green loss in week four, the Gophers have a top-25 resumé.
Next up: At Northwestern
8. Purdue
Last week: 30-13 loss vs Wisconsin
Purdue didn’t stay ranked for long as the turnovers were just too much to overcome against the Badgers.
Next up: At Nebraska
9. Maryland
Last week: 34-16 win vs Minnesota
After an easy 4-0 start, the Terps have lost three in a row. And all three of those losses were not even close. Things don’t bode well for them going down the stretch in November.
Next up: Vs Indiana
10. Nebraska
Last week: Bye week
I don’t think anyone expected the Huskers to be good this year but they have the end of the season to prove a lot of people wrong. Two of their next four include top-10 teams.
Next up: Vs Purdue
11. Indiana
Last week: 54-7 loss vs No. 5 Ohio State
It’s been three top-10 opponents in a row for the Hoosiers and they finally will get a breather to end the season. Indiana was in no way prepared to go step-by-step with the Buckeyes and the offense remains a huge question mark.
Next up: At Maryland
12. Northwestern
Last week: 33-7 loss at No. 6 Michigan
The Wildcats have this thing where every two years they’re really bad. Weird.
Next up: Vs Minnesota
13. Illinois
Last week: 20-18 win at No. 7 Penn State
The Illini are out of the 14th spot. Illinois rushed the ball 67 times last week. Yes, 67. That’s pretty crazy and then you realize that same game went into nine overtimes. If you didn’t watch it, you really missed out.
Next up: Vs Rutgers
14. Rutgers
Last week: Bye week
Coming off the bye I really didn’t have anything to do or say about the Scarlet Knights so they’re in the 14 hole. The fight for the worst team in the conference is next week.
Next up: At Illinois
(10/21/21 6:55pm)
With Iowa’s loss to Purdue last weekend, it’s still uncertain who the top dog in the Big Ten is this season.
Is it Ohio State? Penn State? Maybe the two teams from Michigan?
Well it’s safe to say everyone agrees that one of those teams will find itself in the College Football Playoff.
1. Ohio State
Last week: Bye week
The Buckeyes got a week to improve and refine themselves after a relatively easy first six weeks. It’s going to get real for them very soon. Especially in November.
Next up: At Indiana
2. Iowa
Last week: 24-7 loss vs Purdue
Iowa lost the turnover battle last weekend. It's as simple as that. Spencer Petras threw four interceptions and David Bell is obviously really good. I still expect Iowa to perform well and end up in Indianapolis in December.
Next up: Bye week
3. Penn State
Last week: Bye week
It was a needed break for the Nittany Lions after a tough loss in Iowa City, but all in all the Big Ten East is shaping up to be an absolute slugfest in November.
Next up: Vs Illinois
4. Michigan
Last week: Bye week
Michigan plays clean football and is setting itself up to be in a very good position. The schedule will test the Wolverines, especially in East Lansing on Halloween weekend.
Next up: Vs Northwestern
5. Michigan State
Last week: 20-15 win at Indiana
I still feel like we haven’t gotten a real gauge of who this Spartans team is. Yes, the schedule up to this point has been favorable, but IU really did shut down Kenneth Walker and the run game. A better Indiana offense wins that game for the Hoosiers.
Next up: Bye week
6. Purdue
Last week: 24-7 win at No. 2 Iowa
Purdue makes the biggest jump in this week's Power Rankings. That defense is legit and David Bell is a baller. The Boilermakers find themselves ranked in the AP poll, No. 25, for the first time since 2007.
Next up: Vs Wisconsin
7. Wisconsin
Last week: 20-14 win vs Army
Graham Mertz once again didn’t prove much and the pass game is still very much an issue for the Badgers. But hey, that’s the grind-it-out kind of football they like, right?
Next up: At No. 25 Purdue
8. Minnesota
Last week: 30-23 win vs Nebraska
No matter who is running the ball for the Gophers they move the ball. Credit the o-line. Minnesota is a sneaky good bowl-contending team. No. 11 Iowa better watch out on Nov. 13.
Next up: Vs Maryland
9. Maryland
Last week: Bye week
After two blowout losses, the Terps needed that bye week very desperately. By the way, their first three weeks of November consist of No. 7 Penn State, No. 6 Michigan and No. 9 Michigan State.
Next up: At Minnesota
10. Nebraska
Last week: 30-23 loss at Minnesota
This Nebraska team just can’t stop shooting itself in the foot. That’s all.
Next up: Bye week
11. Indiana
Last week: 20-15 loss vs No. 10 Michigan State
The Hoosiers schedule has been brutal so far, it really has. But that’s not an excuse for a preseason top-25 team to be this behind on the offensive end. Whether it’s scheme or injury it really seems like not many things go right for them on that side of the ball. Also, is Michael Penix Jr. really the problem?
Next up: Vs No. 5 Ohio State
12. Northwestern
Last week: 21-7 win vs Northwestern
The Wildcats defense stood very strong against a struggling Rutgers team but this team is far away from where it was last year.
Next up: At No. 6 Michigan
13. Rutgers
Last week: 21-7 loss at Northwestern
The Scarlet Knights have plummeted since their 3-0 start and are 0-4 since. They haven’t scored more than 13 points since as well.
Next up: Bye week
14. Illinois
Last week: Bye week
Illinois remains the worst team in the Big Ten, for them. It’s really just about the future.
Next up: At No. 7 Penn State
(10/14/21 10:28pm)
A few weeks ago I compared this season to the 2015 season where a one-loss Michigan State team met an undefeated Iowa in the Big Ten championship game.
Every week that goes by is another piece of evidence as to why that’s the case. Last week’s win for No. 2 Iowa is proof that the Big Ten might not have an undefeated team heading into December.
1. Iowa
Last week: 23-20 win vs No. 4 Penn State
It was the biggest game of the Big Ten so far last weekend in Iowa City. It was also a game that Penn State controlled most of the way. Oh, and the Hawkeyes added four more interceptions to their already ridiculous total, 16. It really is smooth sailing from here on out for Iowa.
Next up: Vs. Purdue
2. Ohio State
Last week: 66-17 win vs Maryland
C.J. Stroud is finally coming into form and the defense the past two weeks has looked much improved. We may be starting to see the Buckeyes we all thought we would see this season. Although, the conference schedule is about to get pretty rough.
Next up: Bye week
3. Penn State
Last week: 23-20 loss at No. 3 Iowa
If Sean Clifford hadn’t gotten injured would Penn State have won? That’s something we’ll never know the answer to but things looked good before he went down.
Next up: Bye week
4. Michigan
Last week: 32-29 win at Nebraska
Nebraska is a tough place to play at night, but the Wolverines escaped with a much-earned win. Cade McNamara, even while throwing one interception and zero touchdowns, showed leadership and composure — something Michigan hasn’t had at quarterback in a very long time.
Next up: Bye week
5. Michigan State
Last week: 31-13 win at Rutgers
The Spartans and Kenneth Walker III torched Rutgers on the ground. Walker has solidified himself in the Heisman race and if Sparty keeps winning, it might be headed that way. On 129 carries, Walker has 912 yards and nine touchdowns. He averages an astounding 7.1 yards a carry.
Next up: At Indiana
6. Wisconsin
Last week: 24-0 win at Illinois
The Badgers got a much-needed, bounce-back win and defensively wore down the Illini. Although, I think fans were more concerned over the Jalen Berger drama and dismissal.
Next up: Vs Army
7. Nebraska
Last week: 32-29 loss vs No. 9 Michigan
OK, Nebraska makes the biggest jump of any team in this week's power rankings. The Cornhuskers hung in there with a very good Michigan team and really ever since the game at Oklahoma has looked competitive. An easier schedule awaits for the next two weeks.
Next up: At Minnesota
8. Maryland
Last week: 66-17 loss at No. 7 Ohio State
It’s been a rough past two weeks for the Terps, on both sides of the ball. But this is still a bowl-caliber team and over everyone else below them in the power rankings, I see a lot more upside.
Next up: Bye week
9. Indiana
Last week: Bye week
Not much to discuss with the Hoosiers, but the bye week was much-needed. If the Hoosiers can steal one in the next few weeks it will be very critical for their chances at a bowl. Also, the Michael Penix Jr. injury is forever up in the air.
Next up: Vs. No. 10 Michigan State
10. Minnesota
Last week: Bye week
The biggest news for the Gophers is the season-ending injury to running back Trey Potts. Potts was in the hospital after the Purdue game and the injury is still undisclosed.
Next Up: Vs Nebraska
11. Rutgers
Last week: 31-13 loss vs No. 11 Michigan State
Rutgers has faced a harsh reality check after facing three ranked opponents in a row. But luckily for the Scarlet Knights, things will get A LOT easier on the schedule.
Next up: At Northwestern
12. Purdue
Last week: Bye week
The Boilermakers can finish 6-6 and contend for a bowl, especially in the Big Ten West.
Next up: At No. 2 Iowa
13. Northwestern
Last week: Bye Week
I will be honest, it’s hard to find things to say about Northwestern, especially coming off a bye. My biggest question is, what happened? A team who was in the Big Ten title game a year ago to now struggling mightily to beat a Power Five team.
Next up: Vs Rutgers
14. Illinois
Last week: 24-0 loss vs Wisconsin
Illinois is bad offensively. That’s pretty evident by looking at the box score of last weekend's game. Recruiting is Bret Bielma’s only hope. Give the Illini a few years.
Next up: Bye week
(10/06/21 9:41pm)
Inconsistency is key? No, that’s not the saying, but we’re starting to see a lot of separation from top to bottom in the Big Ten.
When looking past the top five, there are a lot of holes in the conference but the Big Ten is just so top-heavy. Five teams in the top 11 of the AP Poll. Now that is impressive.
1. Iowa
Last week: 51-14 win at Maryland
The Hawkeyes’ secondary might as well be the best in the Big Ten. They have forced 12 interceptions in just five games. Yes, 12. As for Petras, he threw three touchdowns for a new season high.
Next up: Vs No. 4 Penn State
2. Ohio State
Last week: 52-13 win at Rutgers
Since the week two loss to Oregon, the Buckeyes have sneakily started to come into form. The defense, which struggled mightily in the first three weeks, has picked things up recently, but remember, they were playing Rutgers.
Next up: Vs Maryland
3. Penn State
Last week: 24-0 win vs Indiana
The Nittany Lions have yet to falter this season, but their biggest test comes next week against No. 3 Iowa. At this rate this would be the matchup we would see in the Big Ten Championship game.
Next up: At No. 3 Iowa
4. Michigan
Last week: 38-17 win at Wisconsin
Remember when I said that Cade McNamara barely had to throw the ball? Well, against the Badgers he threw the ball 28 times. He also threw two touchdowns. Michigan looks better and better every week.
Next up: At Nebraska
5. Michigan State
Last week: 48-31 win vs Western Kentucky
The Spartan rush attack has added another dimension to this offense. Kenneth Walker III had over 100 yards and three touchdowns, again, against the Hilltoppers. Being able to dominate time of possession and grind teams down is something a lot of teams envy.
Next up: At Rutgers
6. Maryland
Last week: 51-14 loss vs Iowa
Okay, hear me out. Yes, I did move the Terps up after a rout at home but it’s their first loss and I’m taking a look at the whole rest of the Big Ten. After you get past the Spartans it’s riddled with inconsistency. Also, remember when Taulia Tagovailoa had the best touchdown to interception ratio in the Big Ten? Well, look again.
Next up: At No. 7 Ohio State
7. Wisconsin
Last week: 38-17 loss vs No. 14 Michigan
Yikes. The Badgers have given their fans nothing to jump around to the first month of the season. Although, their three losses are all to ranked teams.
Next up: At Illinois
8. Indiana
Last week: 24-0 loss at No. 4 Penn State
The Hoosier offense has had problems all season long and those problems became glaring last Saturday. Now, with a brutal upcoming schedule, things will only get harder.
Next up: Bye week
9. Rutgers
Last week: 52-13 loss vs No. 11 Ohio State
The Scarlet Knights were sent back down to earth last weekend, but they did play Ohio State so I think they get a little bit of a pass.
Next up: Vs No. 11 Michigan State
10. Nebraska
Last week: 56-7 win vs Northwestern
Nebraska is back! No they’re not, but a big win over a Big Ten team must feel like a sigh of relief to the fanbase. Even if it is Northwestern.
Next up: Vs No. 9 Michigan
11. Minnesota
Last week: 20-13 win at Purdue
The Gophers bounce back from a very disappointing home loss to Bowling Green. Although, once again it was Purdue that they were playing. Also, thoughts and prayers for running back Trey Potts who was hospitalized during Saturday’s game due to an “unspecified medical issue.”
Next up: Bye week
12. Purdue
Last week: 20-13 loss vs Minnesota
The Boilermaker offense has really just struggled scoring points this season. They have not scored more than 21 points since week two. That was against UCONN.
Next up: Bye week
13. Northwestern
Last week: 56-7 loss at Nebraska
Man oh man, we’re starting to enter the realm of very bad here in the power rankings. The Wildcats just need a break, luckily for them they’ll get one.
Next up: Bye week
14. Illinois
Last week: 24-14 win vs Charlotte
Illinois struggled with the 49ers last week and no, not the NFL team. The C-USA team from North Carolina.
Next up: Vs Wisconsin
(10/03/21 1:24am)
After bringing the crowd to its feet at the 2021 edition of Hoosier Hysteria, former Hoosier and NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas emotionally uttered three not so little words to former Indiana teammate and now head coach Mike Woodson as he left the court and they embraced.
“I love you.”
In recent years, the word “love” has been missing from Indiana basketball. For years it seemed as if the program tried to emulate something that it never was and never could be. Well, since the head coaching change in late March, Indiana basketball has been surrounded by nothing but love. Whether it’s from Woodson, former players, current players, or the fans. It’s been love.
Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson knew a culture change was needed when he decided to move on from Archie Miller to Mike Woodson. It’s pretty safe to say that since March, that culture has changed.
That love and change was noticeable on Monday’s basketball Media Day. All players and coaches spoke very highly of one another and in support of each other.
“He’s just a great person,” Indiana freshman Tamar Bates said about Woodson.
All-American forward Trayce Jackson-Davis also spoke on his decision to come back to Indiana and his relationship with Woodson.
“He came in and just brought a positive vibe...he convinced me to stay in 10 minutes,” the All-American said.
(09/29/21 8:09pm)
The gears are starting to churn in Big Ten football play and teams are starting to get comfortable. Maybe a little too comfortable.
If September wasn’t crazy enough across the college football landscape, October is about to get a whole lot crazier — especially in the Big Ten, and the schedule can back that up.
But for now, there’s still not a whole lot of change in this week's Big Ten power rankings, aside from the plunging Badgers.
1. Iowa
Last week: 24-14 win vs Colorado State
Talk about holding your breath. Hawkeyes fans sure did for three quarters on Saturday, but luckily for them, Iowa escaped. One thing to watch in the coming weeks is the receiving corps — where are they?
Next up: At Maryland
2. Ohio State
Last week: 59-7 win vs Akron
I think the Buckeyes were more concerned with what happened with K’Vaughan Pope than the Zips. But they did handle Akron, without C.J. Stroud.
Next up: At Rutgers
3. Penn State
Last week: 38-17 win vs Villanova
Jay Wright was not there to save Villanova this time and I must say, these Nittany Lions wide receivers are legit. We knew about Jahan Dotson but Parker Washington has stepped up into a big role in the offense.
Next up: Vs Indiana
4. Michigan
Last week: 20-13 win vs Rutgers
The Wolverines’ month-long home slate has ended and Michigan finds itself 4-0 for the first time since 2017. Remember when I said Cade McNamara hasn’t had to throw the ball much? Well, he still hasn’t. He attempted a season-high 16 passes against Rutgers. Yes, 16. That’s a season-high.
Next up: At Wisconsin
5. Michigan State
Last week: 23-20 win vs Nebraska
Sparty is the only 2-0 team in Big Ten play and escaped against Nebraska. Luckily for them, their good start has them set up well to handle an absolutely brutal late October and November.
Next up: Vs Western Kentucky
6. Wisconsin
Last week: 41-13 loss vs No. 12 Notre Dame
You could write a dissertation just based on the issues with this Wisconsin offense. It might be time for a quarterback change as well. Graham Mertz has thrown one touchdown and six interceptions this season.
Next up: Vs No. 14 Michigan
7. Indiana
Last week: 33-31 win at Western Kentucky
Things won’t get easier for the Hoosiers in the coming weeks and they get out of September with an even record. Although, a win against the Hilltoppers was much-needed and Michael Penix Jr. looked more comfortable and back into regular form. Happy Valley looms.
Next up: At No. 4 Penn State
8. Maryland
Last week: 37-16 win vs Kent State
The “easy” part of the Terps schedule is over. Now it gets real. They have No. 5 Iowa and No.11 Ohio State in back-to-back weeks. The momentum is there, it’s just a matter of whether or not it can be sustained.
Next up: Vs No. 5 Iowa
9. Rutgers
Last week: 20-13 loss At No. 19 Michigan
Rutgers’ defense did what it needed to do to win in Ann Arbor but Noah Verdell and the offense just weren’t enough. There’s no doubt that this Scarlet Knights team is improving.
Next up: Vs No. 11 Ohio State
10. Purdue
Last week: 13-9 win vs Illinois
This Boilermaker team can potentially fight for a bowl bid towards the end of the season, especially with the Big Ten West schedule. Although, they might want to try scoring some touchdowns.
Next up: Vs Minnesota
11. Nebraska
Last week: 23-20 loss at No. 20 Michigan State
If it had not been for an overtime interception, the Cornhuskers could have had the win that turned their season for the better. Instead, people are still asking questions about Scott Frost and the future of one of college football’s all-time great programs.
Next up: Vs Northwestern
12. Minnesota
Last week: 14-10 loss vs Bowling Green
Reality check. It isn’t 2019 anymore Golden Gophers. Tanner Morgan only attempted 13 passes, completing five, but that’s what Big Ten football is, right?!
Right?
Next up: At Purdue
13. Northwestern
Last week: 35-6 win vs Ohio
I will be honest, I probably have Northwestern too low on these power rankings. But right now, there still isn’t a whole lot to like about the Wildcats. Aside from Evan Hull, maybe.
Next up: At Nebraska
14. Illinois
Last week: 13-9 loss at Purdue
From August to September. From high to low. Illinois has come back down to earth, found its little hole and is stocking up on supplies. Will the Illini be in full hibernation come November?
Next up: Vs Charlotte
(09/23/21 6:47pm)
Is it 2015 again? Iowa, Michigan, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Penn State and Michigan State are all back in the top-25 and maybe we’re starting to see a bit of a plateau in the rankings with teams separating themselves. Not many surprises this week, aside from the surging Spartans of course.
Let's get into it.
1. Iowa
Last week: 30-7 win vs Kent State
The No. 5 Hawkeyes bounce back from their two ranked opponents to start the season with a few easy games. As I said before, besides No. 18 Wisconsin and No. 6 Penn State on the schedule, there’s a lot to like about that Big Ten West schedule. Iowa is putting itself in a position to run away with the division.
Next up: vs Colorado State
2. Ohio State
Last week: 41-20 win vs Tulsa
The Buckeyes struggled in the first half against Tulsa but freshman TreVeyon Henderson absolutely DOMINATED on the ground. Two hundred and seventy-seven yards and three touchdowns. Is C.J. Stroud the guy? I really don’t think so at the moment.
Next up: vs Akron
3. Penn State
Last week: 28-20 win vs No. 22 Auburn
Is Penn State back? I don’t know. I really don’t, but a white-out win over No. 22 Auburn is a good start. The real Nittany Lions judgement day is Oct. 9 at Iowa.
Next up: vs Villanova
4. Michigan
Last week: 63-10 win vs Northern Illinois
It really seems like Cade McNamara has barely had to throw the ball through the first three weeks of the season. And that’s because he hasn’t — the junior has only thrown 37 passes, but as long as the Wolverines are winning, it's not a big deal right?
Next up: vs Rutgers
5. Wisconsin
Last week: Bye week
Soldier Field will welcome two top-25 teams this weekend in a “prove it” type game for both the Irish and Badgers. It’s also a Jack Coan revenge game, so there’s that.
Next up: vs No. 12 Notre Dame
6. Michigan State
Last week: 38-17 win at No. 24 Miami
The Spartans are 3-0 for the first time since 2015, the year Michigan State appeared in the College Football Playoff. Quarterback Payton Thorne looks elite early on in the season with a 9-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Next Up: vs Nebraska
7. Indiana
Last week: 38-24 loss vs No. 8 Cincinnati
The Hoosiers have a Penix problem on their hands. After a sloppy first three weeks from the junior quarterback, Michael Penix Jr. has struggled finding his stride and now with two losses in the first three weeks of the season, when is it panic time for IU?
Next up: At Western Kentucky
8. Rutgers
Last week: 45-13 win vs Delaware
What is Greg Schiano’s secret stuff with this Rutgers football team? The Scarlet Knights are winning currently, but three ranked opponents in a row might change things for the worse.
Next up: At No. 19 Michigan
9. Maryland
Last week: 20-17 win at Illinois
Maryland is one of five teams in the Big Ten East to start the season 3-0, but after a scary performance against the Illini, there's still some work to be done. Taulia Tagovailoa has yet to throw an interception and has posted great numbers thus far.
Next up: vs Kent State
10. Minnesota
Last week: 30-0 win at Colorado
Treyson Potts or Mohamed Ibrahim? Pick your poison. They both do the same thing: absolutely run over teams. Minnesota is a team that could go on a win streak in the coming weeks.
Next up: vs Bowling Green
11. Purdue
Last week: 27-13 loss at No. 12 Notre Dame
The Boilermakers played the Irish tough through three quarters but the offense just couldn’t capitalize. I may have been a little low on the Boilermakers, as their schedule is favorable as well. I could see them make a push for a bowl bid, but the developing David Bell injury is something to watch.
Next up: vs Illinois
12. Nebraska
Last week: 23-16 loss at No. 3 Oklahoma
Holding No. 3 Oklahoma below 30 points and only losing by a possession is an accomplishment for this Cornhusker team. They should be confident moving forward.
Next up: At No. 20 Michigan State
13. Northwestern
Last week: 30-23 loss at Duke
It was a battle of the brains in Durham this past weekend, and both teams were fairly evenly matched. This Wildcat team does not look like the same team that won the Big Ten West last year. Not at all.
Next up: vs Ohio
14. Illinois
Last week: 20-17 loss vs Maryland
The Illini have come back down to earth after their week one win over Nebraska, losing three in a row, and it looks like this Illinois team is pretty much what we thought it was before the season. But the Illini do play hard. I'll give them that.
Next up: At Purdue
(09/15/21 4:19pm)
We have a new No. 1 in this week's Big Ten Power Rankings, but we’re starting to get to the point in the season where fans begin to overreact and throw in the towel after a few games.
My response: relax. All but two Big Ten teams won last week. However, one of those losses shakes up the whole College Football Playoff landscape.
We’ll know by mid-October who the contenders and pretenders are.
(09/12/21 2:22pm)
By the look of the naked eye, Indiana’s 56-14 victory over Idaho was a rebound from a disastrous trip to Iowa City last weekend. While it was just that with the defense, special teams and run game firing on all cylinders, something was still missing with this Hoosier offense.
(09/09/21 2:57pm)
“Indiana basketball is coming.”
A graphic, referencing the popular HBO series Game of Thrones, was posted on social media by Brian Walsh, the Hoosiers’ team and recruiting coordinator about a week ago.
(09/08/21 6:49pm)
It was a bittersweet weekend for college football fans around the country as their teams won and lost but I must say, seeing thousands of fans around the country pack into stadiums was a welcomed sight. No matter the game or the teams, hearing the bands play and the students cheering for their schools showed how much we take it for granted each fall Saturday.
A lot of top-25 programs struggled in their season openers and while the environment change could be a main factor, the Big Ten saw some shake up and a sense of continuity with the blue bloods at the top.
Teams who struggled shouldn’t panic — it was just the first week of the season — but having a rough September could mean the season is coming to a spiraling end for most teams.
1. Ohio State
Last Week: 45-31 win at Minnesota
It was a very scary first half for Ohio State last Thursday night as the offense got off to a really slow start. The Buckeyes remained poised and calm and the running backs group looked like everything we thought it would be. The defense seemed to be shaky stopping the run but the Buckeyes will really be tested next week.
Next Week: Vs No. 12 Oregon
2. Penn State
Last Week: 16-10 win at No. 12 Wisconsin
The Nittany Lions responded to the environment in Madison very well last weekend. While Sean Clifford struggled, he still has Jahan Dotson, who was absolutely huge. Dotson had a touchdown on five receptions for 102 yards. Luckily for Penn State, they get past their biggest test early on in the season despite the offensive struggles.
Next Week: Vs Ball State
3. Iowa
Last Week: 34-6 win vs No. 17 Indiana
Iowa’s defense was phenomenal. Two pick-sixes — both by Riley Moss — and the front seven were getting to Michael Penix Jr. all day. Last week I talked about how Spencer Petras needed to be consistent for this Iowa team to succeed. Well last week he didn’t have his best game but he didn’t need to. If the Hawkeyes' defense continues to perform at a high level, they may be the favorites out of the Big Ten West.
Next Week: At No. 9 Iowa State
4. Wisconsin
Last Week: 16-10 loss vs No. 19 Penn State
Graham Mertz did not have quite the season debut that he had in 2020, throwing two interceptions, and one cost the Wisconsin the game in the red zone. He really struggled. And it cost the Badgers.
We know Wisconsin has a good defense and if it wasn’t for one slip up in the secondary leading to a Jahan Dotson walk-in touchdown, it very easily could have headed into overtime. Wisconsin dominated time of possession but three turnovers were critical mistakes that have to get fixed, fast.
Next Week: Vs Eastern Michigan
5. Michigan
Last Week: 47-14 win vs Western Michigan
We got a small sample size of the Michigan offense last weekend. Cade McNamara looked solid in only throwing 11 times but the defense looked new and improved from last year. This is a judgement year for Jim Harbaugh and it’s off to a good start, but keep an eye on the Ronnie Bell injury as a key factor moving forward.
Next Week: Vs Washington
6. Indiana
Last Week: 34-6 loss at No. 18 Iowa
It was not the opening weekend Hoosiers fans wanted. At all. Indiana struggled mightily on offense, Penix had the worst game of his career and the Hoosiers just couldn’t move the ball. The defense responded well after the opening drive but it didn't help when the offense spotted the Hawkeyes 17 points. Indiana’s season is far from over, the Hoosiers just need to get comfortable and couldn’t do that in a tough environment.
Next Week: Vs Idaho
7. Maryland
Last Week: 30-24 win vs West Virginia
In a game that could have gone either way, the Terrapins impressed, getting the job done on both sides of the ball. The defense forced four turnovers and Taulia Tagovailoa was stellar, throwing three touchdowns. Maryland could surprise a lot of people this year if the Terrapins can find some consistent weapons.
Next Week: Vs Howard
8. Minnesota
Last Week: 45-31 loss vs Ohio State
Look away! Mohamed Ibrahim is out for the rest of the season with a leg injury.
A devastating blow for the Golden Gophers as the All-American running back was a pivotal part of the offense and as Tanner
Morgan struggled it does not bode well for the rest of the season. The secondary also struggled as Buckeyes receivers were wide open at times. However, Minnesota never quit and showed a lot of fight, something that could propel the team later on.
Next Week: Vs Miami-Ohio
9. Rutgers
Last Week: 61-14 win vs Temple
The Scarlet Knights offense came to play against Temple at home. It’s important for Rutgers to get a few games under their belt early on in the season before Big Ten play starts. The more experience for an inexperienced team the better. Greg Schiano is already recruiting well and the Scarlet Knights are on the up and up.
Next Week: At Syracuse
10. Michigan State
Last Week: 38-21 win at Northwestern
One name. Kenneth Walker.
It was quite the Spartans debut for the Wake Forest transfer. Four touchdowns on 23 attempts and 264 yards: a ridiculous statline that carried MSU over the Wildcats. It was the start to the season that head coach Mel Tucker needed as it looks like he can rely on the ground game in 2021.
Next Week: Vs Youngstown State
11. Northwestern
Last Week: 38-21 loss vs Michigan State
This is a much different Wildcat team in 2021 than we saw in 2020. As mentioned, the inability to stop the Spartans' run game told the tale of the game and they were just getting blown upfront from the first whistle. Despite the favorable schedule it’ll be crucial for Northwestern to take advantage of a weak nonconference schedule.
Next Week: vs Indiana State
12. Nebraska
Last Week: 52-7 win vs Fordham
Nebraska needed something good to happen after its loss in Champaign. As expected, the Cornhuskers took care of business against an FCS program in Fordham. While it doesn’t take the sour taste out of their fans’ mouth from last week, it suppresses the sensation for the time being. Listen, this Nebraska team has a long way to go and I see a lot of Big Ten teams performing better than them at the current moment that's why they drop to 12 after a win.
Next Week: Vs Buffalo
13. Purdue
Last Week: 30-21 win vs Oregon State
Purdue handled business at home last weekend and we know wide receiver David Bell is a stud. The offense was able to move the ball but it was an all-around sloppy game from both teams where Purdue’s defense was just too much for the Beavers to handle.
Next Week: At UCONN
14. Illinois
Last Week: 37-30 loss vs UTSA
Yikes. Coming off a win over Nebraska last weekend the response was not what it needed to be against UTSA — a program which has only had a football program for a decade. Illinois simply just really struggled on defense with an inability to stop the run and fell behind 14-0 early. After that, the Roadrunners never looked back.
Next Week: At Virginia
We will start to see things come into form over the next few weeks in the Big Ten. Sooner rather than later the separation between contenders and pretenders will be evident.
Previous power rankings:
Week One
(08/31/21 3:09pm)
It won’t be long before the leaves on Big Ten campuses turn golden brown and the winds off the Great Lakes chill the Midwest region. It also won’t be long before 14 college football teams of the conference hit the turf the same weekend. While summer is technically still here, for most football fans, fall starts this weekend.
As last season was full of confusion, cancellations, and COVID-19, it’ll be nice to see some teams finally play a full season with nonconference teams and all.
*knocks on wood*
So with just days before the season starts for most teams it's FINALLY time to begin the weekly power rankings series. While it’s a little hard to judge 12 of these teams before their first game I will attempt to rank them in this edition of where they stand week one.
1. Ohio State
Last Season: 7-1; Loss to Alabama in CFP National Championship
It’s hard to not put the reigning national runner-up as the best team in the Big Ten heading into 2021. While they lose firepower in the backfield with the departure of Justin Fields and running back Trey Sermon, they keep the big guns out wide with Chris
Olave and Garrett Wilson. The two will be a nice security blanket for freshman quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Stroud’s the big question mark for the Buckeyes. While he may not be Justin Fields right away, the 42nd best player in the class of 2020 will fit in just fine. Also, watch out for a fellow Virginian of mine, TreyVeyon Henderson, to get a lot of carries for the Buckeyes. He’s a stud.
Next Up: At Minnesota
2. Wisconsin
Last Season: 4-3; Win versus Wake Forest in bowl game
It was a confusing and underwhelming 2020 for the Badgers with multiple cancellations and COVID-19 issues but the favorite to win the Big Ten West returns most of its star power. Quarterback Graham Mertz was impressive when he was able to play last year but couldn’t really stay consistent and comfortable.
Week one and week three will really tell the tale of the season for the Badgers, as they start with No. 19 Penn State and then host the No. 9 Fighting Irish on the 25th of September. If they can win both of those or even split them early on, Badgers fans may be in for a fun season.
Next Up: Vs. Penn State
3. Penn State
Last Season: 4-5; No bowl appearance
Yes. Yes. Yes, the Nittany Lions did start last season 0-5, but on the flip side they finished 4-0. It was a down year for Penn State clearly, something they haven’t been used to as of late. Quarterback Sean Clifford will look to have a bounce back year and star wide receiver Jahan Dotson will be the primary target. However, I do worry about the linebacking core after the departure of Micah Parsons and Shaka Toney to the NFL, but I remain optimistic for James Franklin and the No. 19 team from State College.
Next Up: At Wisconsin
4. Iowa
Last Season: 6-2; Bowl game canceled versus Missouri
One name will decide the fate of the Hawkeyes season: Spencer Petras. The quarterback has been inching toward a breakout year and some more consistency in his game. Tyler Goodson is a nice cushion to rely on in the backfield, and the defense is superb as usual. The No. 18 Hawkeyes could have been 8-0 easily but dropped their first two against Purdue and Northwestern.
Next Up: Vs. Indiana
5. Indiana
Last Season: 6-2; Loss versus Ole Miss in bowl game
It was a season defined by highs and lows for Indiana, from a miracle in week one to an injury to star quarterback Michael Penix. While it was a building block in the right direction for the Hoosiers who have suffered from decades of losing before Tom Allen, players will tell you they left 2020 with a sour taste in their mouth after the Outback Bowl loss. The Hoosiers return most starters on both sides of the ball and if Penix can stay healthy they can very easily make a run in the Big Ten East.
Next Up: At Iowa
6. Michigan
Last Season: 2-4; No bowl appearance
Another forgettable season for one of the blue bloods of college football as the Wolverines had their last three games of the season canceled and only picked up wins against Rutgers and Minnesota. The big question for Jim Harbaugh is the quarterback and run defense. Cade McNamara is the guy and will finally get a chance as he did at the end of last season. It’s time for the former NFC Champion coach to prove it on the field in 2021.
Next Up: Vs. Western Michigan
7. Northwestern
Last Season: 7-2; Win versus Auburn in bowl game
Last season was a very successful one for the Wildcats, as they appeared in the Big Ten title game and overachieved their expectations. I expect Chicago’s college team to take a step back in 2021 as they lose a lot of starters but Pat Fitzgerald knows how to coach and the schedule is very favorable in the Big Ten West.
Next Up: Vs. Michigan State
8. Minnesota
Last Season: 3-4; No bowl appearance
It was just two years ago that Minnesota was one of the most underrated teams in college football but took a major step back last season on the defensive side of the ball. Mohammed Ibrahim looks to be one of the best running backs in the country and quarterback Tanner Morgan looks to return to 2019 form. Unfortunately for the Golden Gophers, the schedule is absolutely brutal this season finishing the last three weeks with No. 18 Iowa, No. 17 Indiana and No. 12 Wisconsin back to back to back. Yikes.
Next Up: Vs. Ohio State
9. Maryland
Last Season: 2-3; No bowl appearance
It’s a shame that Maryland only played five games last season because the team never really could get in a complete groove. I think the Terrapins are still a few years away and recruiting has gone well. Quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa is a major bright spot on the offensive side of the ball but a tough schedule will not do the Terps any favors.
Next Up: Vs. West Virginia
10. Nebraska
Last Week: Loss to Illinois 30-22
I’m going to be honest, I had Nebraska above Maryland before this past weekend but a loss to the consensus worst team in the Big Ten is not a good way to start the season. The Scott Frost era has been interesting to say the least, but I don’t see Nebraska getting back to blue blood glory anytime soon. On the bright side of things, the front seven looked much improved but the passing game is rough.
Next Up: Vs. Fordham
11. Rutgers
Last Season: 3-6; No bowl appearance
Recruiting has gone really well for the Scarlet Knights since the hire of Greg Schiano but they are still years away from bowl contention. Especially in the Big Ten East. It seems as if there’s a whole new feel surrounding the program since the return of Schiano and the fan base echoes that.
Next Up: Vs. Temple
12. Michigan State
Last Season: 2-5; No bowl appearance
It will be a rough next few years for Spartans fans as they look to return to the jovial energy they once felt in 2015 when the team played in the College Football Playoff. Mel Tucker is starting to build depth at every position with transfers and recruiting has picked up in the class of 2022, which is now the 19th best class in the country. Another tough Big Ten schedule awaits East Lansing.
Next Up: At Northwestern
13. Purdue
Last Season: 2-4; No bowl appearance
It was 2018 when the Boilermakers absolutely decimated a No. 2-ranked Ohio State team which spoiled the Buckeyes' playoff chances. Since then, not much has gone right for the Purdue football team and now having to compete in state recruiting with a propelling IU down south in Bloomington, it’s gonna be a while. Although the opening slate for Purdue is favorable (besides a trip up to South Bend), starting in October it gets very nasty.
Next Up: Vs. Oregon State
14. Illinois
Last Week: Win versus Nebraska 30-22
Illinois does have the worst roster on paper in the Big Ten but hey, the Illini are 1-0 now. A good start for the Bret Bielema era in Champaign. It was a sloppy game in the win over Nebraska on Saturday but it’s just not enough for me to inch them any further in this week's power rankings. However, anything is possible. Is that the saying?
Next Up: Vs. UTSA
The Big Ten is one of the deepest conferences in the nation top to bottom. Truly, any of these teams can compete for a bowl appearance but it mathematically isn’t a possibility. A lot of people will be in very good moods for the next four months and that’s for a really good reason — Big Ten football is back! We’ll revisit after the first official opening weekend and we will likely see many changes.
(08/18/21 2:05pm)
When looking at the Indiana linebackers of course Micah McFadden and Marcelino McCrary-Ball stand out, but after them who’s next?
Indiana’s linebackers don’t have to be great for this defense to be good, and that’s something very pleasing to hear if you're a Hoosiers fan, but it’s even better that they are.
We know how good Indiana’s secondary can be and a linebacker core led by McFadden, one of the best in the Big Ten, automatically bumps this group into elite status. Add McFadden’s return along with McCrary-Ball’s and it’s one of the best groups in the Big Ten. McCrary-Ball being back is so meaningful for the Hoosiers. He's a leader on and off the field and brings great experience.
Indiana had some questions at the edge last season, putting a lot of pressure on McFadden to pass rush, but one player sets himself apart preseason.
(08/13/21 4:00pm)
Indiana has had a good history at running back with the likes of Jordan Howard and Tevin Coleman but since then it’s been a struggle to really find the star. That search will continue this season.
While the running back room loses Stevie Scott and now with the recent entering into the transfer portal from Sampson James, it adds and returns some talent. There are about two guys who really set themselves apart pre-season and will get the most carries but which one of them will be the featured back? That’s the million dollar question right now.
Indiana running backs excelled when running to the right end of the offensive line last year, totaling 203 yards on 34 rushes. That’s an astonishing 6 yards per attempt. However, on the other side of the line it was a different story. The Hoosiers averaged 3.8 yards per attempt on the left end of the offensive line. This became extremely predictable for defenses to stop and clog. We’ll discuss this discrepancy and why it happened more when we focus on the offensive and defensive line’s position preview.
Also, think about how a balanced run game can open up the rest of the Indiana offensive game as well. In 2020 Indiana’s play-action percentage (24.5%) was 90th in the FBS. Defenses simply knew play action likely wasn’t coming. If play actions can draw the defense's secondary in it opens up the perimeter greatly for Ty Fryfogle and Miles Marshall.
A more balanced and unpredictable offense and run game are needed in 2021 in order for the Hoosiers to succeed.
While it's important to have depth at running back I honestly think one of the Hoosiers’ biggest needs is finding consistency in the run game. They need a guy who can go out there and get them yards consistently and when they need them. Now, without Stevie Scott and the supposed transfer of Sampson James, some new blood will see A LOT more touches this season. Let's go through who will get the carries this year.