Complete viewer’s guide to Championship Weekend

Big Ten: (6) Ohio State vs. (21) Northwestern – Saturday 8:00 pm – FOX

When Ohio State takes the field against Northwestern on Saturday night, they will be looking to make a statement for the Playoff Committee and win another Big Ten title, but many fans are wondering what Buckeyes team will show up.

On paper, Ohio State is 11-1 and comfortably ranked in the top-10, but it has been a long ride for Buckeye fans. Ohio State started the season off strong and once again looked like the team to beat in the Big Ten, but a blow-out loss to Purdue, followed by a few close calls, had fans wondering whether Ohio State stood a chance against Michigan. Not only did they stand a chance, but the Buckeyes destroyed the Wolverines and clinch a second straight birth to the conference championship game. Although Northwestern has surprised many with their strong play this season, if the Buckeyes play up to their potential, they will put themselves in the conversation for the No. 4 spot in the Playoffs on Sunday.

What a year it has been for Pat Fitzgerald and this Northwestern team. The Wildcats went 0-3 in non-conference play but reeled off seven straight Big Ten victories to finish the season with an 8-4 record. Northwestern is led by quarterback Clayton Thorson and running back Isaiah Bowser, both of which have helped the Wildcats win games with a steady and balanced offensive attack. However, if the motivated Ohio State team shows up, it will take a near perfect game to win their first conference title in 18 years.

If the Ohio State that destroyed Michigan team shows up, they will roll and cover the 14-point spread with ease. However, if the team regresses to their pre-Michigan form, the Wildcats could make things interesting.