FAVORITE TEAMS

THE BIG TEN DIDN’T MISS A BEAT

From the start of Illinois vs. Wisconsin to the end of Michigan vs. Minnesota was entertaining some redeeming situations. Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz was nearly perfect in his starting debut. Justin Fields and Ohio State got the rust out to dominate Nebraska. Indiana won in chaotic fashion, while Rutgers forced seven turnovers on Michigan State for their first conference win under Greg Schiano since 2017. Iowa won a thriller over Purdue, and Northwestern has an offense this season.

PENN STATE SHOULD’VE WON THE GAME

If anyone watched Penn State vs. Indiana, you would agree too. After Indiana failed on 4th down, Penn State had everything in the world to end the game on their last first down of the game. Instead, running back Devyn Ford was too late to realize that he was supposed to stop short of the endzone and scored an unnecessary touchdown. That eventually led to Indiana’s game-tying touchdown and Penn State’s missed 57-yard field goal that sent the game into overtime. After that, Indiana won in dramatic and chaotic fashion and the rest is Big Ten history. Penn State’s self-inflicted loss puts them at high risk of playoff elimination next week.

OHIO STATE LOOKS LIKE PLAYOFF CONTENDERS

Ohio State played well overall. Their defense locked down after a slow start against Nebraska’s offense and quarterback Justin Fields threw nearly 100% of his passes for two touchdowns. Ohio State hasn’t missed a beat despite key losses on both sides. However, they head to Happy Valley this weekend to face frustrated Penn State. This could be a gauntlet matchup that makes or breaks the Big Ten’s season after the first two weeks.

BYU PLAYS TWO FORMIDABLE MOUNTAIN WEST OPPONENTS

BYU bowled over every team that came their way at home or on the road. Quarterback Zach Wilson continues making headlines, but now things are fading as the Big Ten is back and eventually the Pac-12 next month. The Cougars could re-appear because they’re on the road at Boise State next month and must pray the Broncos are in the Top 25 for two more weeks. Two weeks later, they end their season at home against San Diego State and the Aztecs could be in the mix for a Top 25 ranking if they continue winning. Whether BYU is in playoff consideration or not, those are two potential quality wins, including a Cincinnati loss that will guarantee them a New Year’s Six Bowl appearance.

CINCINNATI OR BYU MUST GO UNDEFEATED WITH HELP FOR PLAYOFF CONSIDERATION

Cincinnati and BYU are currently in the Top 12 and in really good shape with half of their season or less to go. Unfortunately, their chances for the playoffs are slim. Clemson and Alabama are heavy favorites in the Top 2 and Ohio State could likely hold the third. The fourth could go to either another ACC team, Big Ten team, SEC team or Oklahoma State if they finish the season undefeated as conference champs. For Cincy to get in, they must finish undefeated as conference champs with chaos happening above them. BYU must do the same but since the FBS Independent doesn’t have a conference championship game, Cincinnati must lose one game to ensure their chances. That’s all it takes for a non-Power 5 team to get in. I’m rooting for you little guys!