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Big Ten Football Power Rankings: Michigan, MSU making noise

By Dante Pryor

Sep 18, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Payton Thorne (10) hands the ball to running back Kenneth Walker III (9) during the first half against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Payton Thorne (10) hands the ball to running back Kenneth Walker III (9) during the first half against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cincinnati Bearcats cornerback Arquon Bush (9) breaks up a pass intended for Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Ty Fryfogle (3) in the third quarter of the NCAA football game between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Cincinnati Bearcats at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., on Saturday, September 18, 2021. The Bearcats won 38-24.Cincinnati Bearcats At Indiana Hoosiers Football
Cincinnati Bearcats cornerback Arquon Bush (9) breaks up a pass intended for Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Ty Fryfogle (3) in the third quarter of the NCAA football game between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Cincinnati Bearcats at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., on Saturday, September 18, 2021. The Bearcats won 38-24.Cincinnati Bearcats At Indiana Hoosiers Football /

11. Nebraska Cornhuskers (2-3, 0-2)

Precisely what is a moral victory worth? Maybe it is enough to keep Nebraska head coach Scott Frost off of the hot seat for a bit. Give credit where credit is due. The Cornhuskers have looked much improved despite losing their last two games.

The offense leaves much to be desired, though Adrian Martinez has played well so far this season. Outside of the Illinois game, he’s been arguably the best quarterback in the division. The defense has also been solid this year. Is this finally a cause for optimism?

10. Northwestern Wildcats (2-2, 0-1)

With as much talent as the Wildcats lost from last season’s team, it would not be easy for Northwestern to duplicate last season’s efforts. Their lack of team speed was evident in their two losses and their victory against Indiana State.

This is a “floor” season for the Wildcats as they look to rebuild this season. Northwestern travels to Lincoln to play Nebraska Saturday evening in a must-win for both teams.

9. Indiana Hoosiers (2-2, 0-1)

The Hoosiers are having difficulty living with high expectations. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has not played well thus far this season. The defense has been solid as usual, but the offense is lacking.

Penix is too streaky as a quarterback. He’s playing a lot like Sean Clifford did last season for Penn State. Penix will start hot, then go away for a quarter and a half, then get hot again only to make a crucial mistake late in a game. If that does not get better, the Hoosier will be up and down all season.

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