Big Ten: Five biggest takeaways from Week 5

Oct 3, 2015; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Jordan Canzeri (33) stiff-arms Wisconsin Badgers safety Tanner McEvoy (3) during the second quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Big Ten West is Wide Open

Before the season, an offshore sportsbook posted odds to win each division in college football. Wisconsin was the favorite at 5/4 to win the Big Ten West, followed by Nebraska at 5/2 and Minnesota at 5/1. All three of those teams lost in Week 5. Iowa (7/1) and Northwestern (14/1) have been the best teams in the Big Ten West so far this season and either one has a great chance to play in the conference championship game.

Iowa upset Wisconsin 10-6 on Saturday and Northwestern handled Minnesota 27-0. Later in the day Nebraska was stunned 14-13 at Illinois.

I would give the slight edge to Iowa over Northwestern if I had to pick one to win the division. Iowa avoids Ohio State, Michigan State, Michigan and Penn State from the East. Northwestern plays Michigan and Penn State but they host Iowa on October 17.

I wouldn’t count out Nebraska or Wisconsin yet. The two play each other in Lincoln this weekend and the winner still has a great shot at winning the division.

The football in the Big Ten West might not be the most desirable to watch but it will provide great entertainment in the coming weeks.

Next: Northwestern and Michigan