The Big Ten week five: Preview
The Big Ten will get started on their conference games this week. The conference has been fairly productive early in season and therefore will feature a number of ranked teams playing one another in what should be an important week.
Northwestern vs. Minnesota
Northwestern will head to Minnesota in week-five action.
Northwestern has had a strong year so far, posting four wins in as many games this season. The club has yet to face a powerhouse, which will not change heading into their game against Minnesota. The Wildcats have been in form as of late and should be able
to cruise past the Golden Gophers.
Minnesota has not been able to find their game this season with their only win coming in week one against Middle Tennessee. The Golden Gophers are coming off their third loss of the year to Northern Illinois and are likely to struggle against Northwestern
this week.
#2 Ohio State vs. Illinois
Ohio State will face-off against Illinois in their first conference match-up.
Ohio State has rolled through the 2010 season so far and is coming off a 73 point game against Eastern Michigan. The Buckeyes should not be challenged by Illinois and should cruise to a 5-0 record.
The Illini lost their opening game to Missouri only to follow it up with wins over Southern Illinois and Northern Illinois. Nevertheless, they go into their game against Ohio State as heavy underdogs and will be lucky to stay in the match.
#19 Michigan vs. Indiana
Indiana will host Michigan in their week five engagement.
Michigan has been incredible this season, taking much of the college football world by surprise. The play of starting quarterback Dernard Robinson has thrust him into the spotlight and made him the leader in the race for the Heisman Trophy this season.
Indiana is sitting at 3-0, but has yet to play anyone of consequence. The Hoosiers have notched wins over Towson, Western Kentucky and Akron, but will be challenged for the first time when they play the Wolverines this weekend.
#11 Wisconsin vs. #24 Michigan State
Wisconsin will visit Michigan State in week five.
Wisconsin has put together an impressive season heading into week five. The Badgers are ranked 15th in the nation on offence, 15th on defence and have the 10th best rushing game in the country. With a 70 point performance
against Austin Peay last week the Badgers are rolling, heading into Spartan Stadium.
Michigan State has hovered near the bottom of the rankings with easy wins this season. However, their match-up against the Badgers will be the toughest of their young campaign and a win could see them shoot up the Top 25.
#22 Penn State vs. #17 Iowa
Penn State will visit Kinnick Stadium to face Iowa in a much anticipated Saturday night match-up.
Penn State has put together a strong season despite a loss to #1 Alabama in week two. The Nittany Lions will be keen on getting their first win against a ranked side this week in the hope they can force their way back up the Top 25.
Iowa are still reeling after a week three loss to #24 Arizona. The Hawkeyes are coming off a 45-0 shutout of Ball State and should be in form at home against Penn State this weekend.
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