Blog Archive

Three big games today for the Big Ten:
Michigan v. Notre Dame
Iowa v. Iowa State
Ohio State v. Texas.

A loss by any of the above Big Ten teams means a tough road ahead for the National Championship and the conference championship. A win means a big boost. I will be glued to my couch all day watching these great games. Here is my quick take on how they might play out:

OSU – UT
I think Home field advantage is huge for the Buckeyes. I also think their defense and special teams are better. It will take a big day by Vince young to beat OSU in the Shoe. I don’t think that is going to happen. Bucks by a touchdown. The best case scenario for me of course would be for both teams to play badly as I hate them both.

Iowa – Iowa State
Big in state rivalry. I don’t know much about Iowa State but I think Iowa is going to win this handily. They are just too tough and too well coached. Iowa State always seems to disappoint. I think the trend will continue this week.

Michigan – Notre Dame
This game is big for both teams. Michigan is looking to avoid the pitfalls of last season and make a run for the title. Notre Dame is looking to pick up where they left off last weekend smacking Pitt around. Plus, they want to bring back the Notre Dame swagger and tradition.

I think Michigan has the edge offensively. This game will come down to big plays and turnovers. Cliche I know but still true. If Michigan can keep Notre Dame from making big plays – making them earn their points – and avoids turnovers they win. I think they will do just that. I don’t think the defense will shut down the Fighting Irish but I think they will slow them down enough for the offense to outscore ND. I am thinking something like 34-30.

So there you have it: all three Big Ten teams win big games. This should be an intense season in the best conference in the country.