Even with a game against Ohio State upcoming, Penn State proved that the Big Ten is theirs to lose with a complete performance in Week 8.
In case you forgot how good Penn State was following their bye week, they showed what they’re capable of against Michigan. Scoring on Don Brown’s defense is extremely difficult, but the Nittany Lions hung 506 yards and six touchdowns on them, all while turning the ball over just once. Michigan actually won the time of possession battle and still lost by 29 — in case you needed another reminder of how drastic the difference between those two offenses are.
Right now, there’s no doubt as to who possesses the most complete offense in the Big Ten. Penn State’s defense is underrated, but they can get after opposing teams. And having faced their first true test against a quality opponent, they passed with flying colors. It’ll take something truly miraculous to keep them from winning the Big Ten, and the College Football Playoff, at this point.
It should’ve come as no surprise that Minnesota picked up their first conference win of the season against Illinois. Their defense actually played well, forcing three turnovers, but the offense couldn’t take advantage of those opportunities. Neither quarterback played well, but Minnesota’s power running game helped secure them the win.
For a while, this game was there for the taking. But now, Illinois will have to pull off a massive upset if they want to salvage something from this campaign.
Nebraska was on a bye last week, but because of Rutgers’ shock win over Purdue, they fall one spot to 13. With a new athletic director, fans will be eager to see this football program restored to its former glory. And for many, the first step they have to take is an obvious one.