Big Ten Power Rankings: Michigan State, Iowa vie for top spot after Ohio State loss
By Mark Rogers
Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
14. Maryland Terrapins (2-9, 0-7)
Losing to a fellow winless team in the Big Ten is the latest accomplishment for the worst team in the conference. Maryland traded scores with Indiana into the third quarter until the Hoosiers went on a 17-0 run to close it out. Following a competitive first Big Ten season, the 2015 season will mercilessly end for new entries, Maryland and Rutgers. The Terps took a major step back as indicated by its negative 109 point differential (15.6 ppg).
13. Purdue Boilermakers (2-9, 1-6)
The Boilermakers’ 40-20 loss to Iowa followed a similar script. Purdue didn’t get blown out of the gate. Darrell Hazell’s team closed to within 20-13 midway through the third quarter before wilting vs a more experienced, disciplined and talented team. Purdue will show significant progress by competing and closing against an Indiana team that has taken Ohio State, Michigan and Michigan State deep into the fourth quarter. The Old Oak and Bucket is also at stake.
Next: Rutgers-Indiana