Big Ten Power Rankings: Iowa, Michigan State battle for league supremacy
By Mark Rogers
Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
12. Maryland (3-9, 1-7)
For much of the season, the Terps appeared to be the worst team in the conference. Maryland was offensively inept early on in losses to West Virginia and Michigan. Injuries and poor play handed the quarterback job to Perry Hills who threatened defenses with his feet (535 yards, 3 touchdowns). Mike Locksley served as the caretaker in absence of Randy Edsall who was fired on October 11. The powers that be must find a program builder to come to College Park.
11. Illinois (5-7, 2-6)
A 24-14 loss to Northwestern kept the Illini out of postseason play. Despite a player treatment scandal that culminated with the ouster of head coach Tim Beckman just prior to the season, the Illini started strong. A final play 14-13 win over Nebraska in the Big Ten opener, lifted Illinois to 4-1. Interim coach Bill Cubit’s club faltered badly down the stretch. The offense fizzled in scoring just 40 points in its final four losses.
Next: Minnesota - Nebraska