2006 BTPR

It's time for the Big Ten to get down to business in conference play. And the conference is showing some life with the two biggest wins in the country thus far this year (Ohio State rolling then #2 Texas in Austin and Michigan destroying then #2 Notre Dame in South Bend). So how do they stack up as they head into conference play?

1) Ohio State - what's not to like? Their offense is humming and they sit atop the polls at #1 in the nation. The only chink in the armor might be on D this year.

2) Michigan - the Wolverines solidified their #2 spot with a throttling of Notre Dame. They've got the best defense in the conference and an offense with big play ability.

3) Iowa - if Drew Tate is playing, they've got a chance in every game. Not enough talent around him to rank them any higher at this point.

4) Penn State - I have a feeling they will be up and down this year. Morelli isn't good enough to take full advantage of their skill position talent and their D has some holes.

5) Michigan State - Once again, the Spartans are starting to get some hopes up in September. Will it last? Hopefully for at least one more week against the Irish.

6) Wisconsin - 3 games, 3 wins, 3 horrible opponents. We'll see what they are made of in Ann Arbor this week.

7a) Purdue - middle of the pack type of team.
7b) Minnesota - see 7a

9) Northwestern - they've at least got some talent.

10) Indiana - which is more than I can say about the Hoosiers.

11) Illinois - u.g.l.y. Syracuse?!?!?!?!?!