Big Ten Football Power Rankings, Week 4: Michigan gaining steam

Penn State had a rough start defensively on Friday, finding themselves down early in the third quarter. But thanks to their run game and Trace McSorley, the Nittany Lions unleashed 42 second half points in route of Illinois. Penn State has proven to have one of the best offenses in the nation but it’s defense could get them in trouble when playing a more talented opponent.

And their most talented opponent comes into town this weekend, as they take on Ohio State in their annual White Out game. Penn State’s offense can put up the numbers to give them the win but if their defense can’t stop Ohio State and it’s run game, the Nittany Lions will find themselves in a battle that could see both teams scoring over 40 points. It’s make or break for the Nittany Lions, as their Big Ten title hopes rely heavily on their Week 5 outcome.

Head Coach Urban Meyer returned to the sideline in Week 4 as the Ohio State Buckeyes looked as dominate as they have been all season. Quarterback Dwayne Haskins continued his stellar season bringing his season totals to nearly 1200 yards passing and 16 passing touchdowns. Many questions about the Buckeyes quarterback situation popped up during the offseason but the answers have been pretty clear.

The Buckeyes will need another big game for him as they travel to Happy Valley this weekend to take on Penn State. This game will prove vital to the Buckeyes playoff’s hopes. It’s the Buckeyes second test in three weeks and a win could seal a spot in the playoff, even if they were to suffer a loss somewhere else along the line.

It’s the game of the week in not only the Big Ten but in all of college football, and could be one of the best games we see all season. The fate of the Big Ten could ride on this game and Heisman resumes will be strengthen or destroyed. The Ohio State Buckeyes and Penn State Nittany Lions battle it out for the top spot in our Big Ten Power Rankings: Will you be watching?