Big Ten Power Rankings: Ohio State, Iowa destined for Championship Game?
By Mark Rogers
Nov 14, 2015; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Josh Ferguson (6) attempts to make a catch against Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
10. Minnesota (4-6, 1-5)
Throw the Gophers in the same bucket as the Hoosiers. Minnesota is competing against really good teams. The Gophers needed a late fourth quarter stop to get the ball back down 33-28. It didn’t happen. Lost amidst a disappointing season is the progress of quarterback Mitch Leidner. While the running game has faltered, Leidner has shouldered the load with 301, 317, 281 and 259 yards against Nebraska, Michigan, Ohio State and Iowa. Leidner failed to reach 100 yards in his previous two games. Minnesota has to beat Illinois and Wisconsin to secure postseason play for a third straight year.
9. Illinois (5-5, 2-5)
Illinois beat Nebraska head-to-head and owns a better record. The Illini, however, are wilting down the stretch. The Big Ten opening win vs Nebraska was followed up by a solid effort at Iowa. In recent weeks Illinois’ offense has vanished in its last four games with just 30 points scored. Wes Lunt, Josh Ferguson, Ke’shawn Vaughn and Geronimo Allison were producing points early in the season. Illinois will need the offense to wake up to become bowl eligible. Road trips to Minnesota and Northwestern conclude the schedule.
Next: Nebraska-Penn State