Big Ten Power Rankings: Ohio State, Iowa destined for Championship Game?
By Mark Rogers
Nov 14, 2015; Bloomington, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Jake Rudock throws a pass against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
4. Michigan (8-2, 4-2)
Jim Harbaugh brought an old school I-formation, run between the tackles approach back to Ann Arbor. The Wolverines have generally followed script…until Saturday. Jake Rudock threw 46 passes for 440 yards and six touchdowns and Michigan needed every one of those completions in surviving Indiana in overtime, 48-41. Michigan may be refining the passing game just in time for Penn State and Ohio State. The Wolverines’ once dominant defense is showing signs of wear. Jordan Howard ran all over the Maize and Blue. With Saquon Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott up next, this could be an opportunity to expose Michigan after being so strong the first 2.5 months of the season.
3. Michigan State (9-1, 5-1)
Little can be derived from the Spartans’ workmanlike 24-7 win over hapless Maryland. Most important is the health of Connor Cook. The Senior quarterback didn’t play the second half with a shoulder injury, but should be ready for Ohio State next week. Much heralded backup Tyler O’Connor hit on 6 of 11 passes with a touchdown and interception. The Spartans only mustered 289 yards of offense. Michigan State will have to play its best game of the season to win in Columbus. The Eastern Division is on the line.