The Week Ahead in the Big Ten
With a couple of weeks already finished in conference play, teams are starting to separate themselves from the pack in the Big Ten. Wisconsin and Ohio State are clearly the class of the league; Indiana is looking like the #3 team; Michigan, if they can win some road games, is in the mix; Illinois, Michigan State, and Purdue are in the middle of the pack; Iowa and Penn State are likely #8 and #9; and Minnesota and Northwestern round out the league. Moreover, with less than two months until Selection Sunday, it is time to start building up resumes and at-large profiles for the Committee to look at. That means that every game is becoming more and more important. This week is no different.
Top Games
Indiana at Illinois (Tuesday): Two teams fighting for bids in the conference. Indiana is looking like the #3 team in the conference, and are on a five-game winning streak. Illinois has lost five of their last seven, and could be on the outside looking in come Selection Sunday. They really need a victory here.
Michigan at Wisconsin (Wednesday): If this game was in Ann Arbor, it would be a much closer contest. The Wolverines are tied for second in the Big Ten at 4-1 in the conference, but are only 2-3 on the road and really struggle away from home. Wisconsin is one of the best teams in the country, but has won four straight games by single-digits.
Other Games to Watch
Minnesota at Michigan State (Wednesday): Michigan State really needs a win to get their momentum back headed into February, while Minnesota would love to win its first road game of the year. If this game was at Minnesota, there would be some doubt. However, MSU won’t lose on Wednesday.
Ohio State at Northwestern (Wednesday): Wisconsin had a lot of trouble when they played on the road against the Wildcats a week ago. Ohio State is a young team looking to keep pace with the Badgers in the standings, but could have a tougher time than expected. However, they are too talented for Northwestern.
Penn State at Iowa (Wednesday): Penn State has been close to knocking off several teams this season, but has fell short nearly every time. They still haven’t won a road game yet. Iowa is 9-1 at home, and is currently a surprising 6th in the conference. Adam Haluska and Tyler Smith of Iowa against Geary Claxton and Jamelle Cornley of PSU will be a nice battle.
Purdue does not play until the weekend.