Big Ten Power Rankings, Week 12: Michigan loses, but still controls its destiny
By David Rouben
This game followed another unsettling pattern for Purdue. They got off to a 10-0 lead in the first quarter but were outscored 45-7 the rest of the way. Ever since Gerad Parker took over, the Boilermakers have always started out strong and finished poorly. And while he could at least count on a stat-padding performance from David Blough, he only had 184 passing yards while throwing for three interceptions.
Purdue can’t keep playing like this, and Boilermakers fans can’t wait for the day when they appoint a full-time coach. But knowing Purdue, they’ll probably expect Les Miles and end up with Al Golden.
Maryland knew what Rutgers had to go through when they played Ohio State and Michigan in back-to-back weeks. While the Terps were still licking their wounds from a 59-3 loss to the Wolverines, they lost by three more points in front of their home fans. They also endured a terrible sight, as Perry Hills started the game, but went down after two drives.
He had to leave against Michigan too, and it looked like he tried to play through the pain. But they had no chance of beating Ohio State, and Hills may have just jeopardized his team’s season by doing that. Even if they go to a bowl game this year – and considering they play Rutgers in the final week, they should – there’s no guarantee they’ll win it now without Hills. Even though they’re a much improved team over last year, losing five of their last six games would leave a bad taste in fans’ mouths.
Despite their heavy loss, Maryland is still ranked No. 10 because, unlike the teams below them, they still have a chance to go bowling.
Indiana came into this week with the potential to spring a trap against Penn State. They had won two games in a row, while their offense was starting to find its groove. While the scoreboard hardly reflects it, their defense has stepped up big time this season too, and they had another strong game against Penn State.
They pressured Trace McSorley all game, who had a completion percentage of just over 50%, while they limited Saquon Barkley to 20 yards on 20 carries before he had two crucial fourth quarter touchdowns. This Indiana team is a lot like Nebraska last year in that they’re better than their record indicates. If you just looked at their scoreboard, you would never guess that this unit ranks 55th in the country in total defense.
It’s gotta be frustrating for Hoosiers fans, but they should go bowling this year. Even though they play Michigan next week, it’ll most likely be John O’Korn playing, which means that their defense could make it a close game. And seeing how well Richard Lagow has played coming out of JUCO is an encouraging sign for next year. Even if they’re not getting the results, there’s a lot to like about this Indiana team.