3 teams capable of upsetting Ohio State for Big Ten title this year

Wisconsin finally has the quarterback to beat Ohio State in Indianapolis

Even if a team like Indiana or Penn State may have what it takes to stun Ohio State during the regular season, the best chance to see the Buckeyes fall would have to be in the conference championship. While no Big Ten West team has ever beaten a Big Ten East team in Indianapolis, the Wisconsin Badgers may have what it takes this year, thanks to their starting quarterback, Graham Mertz.

There were fleeting moments last year where Mertz looked like he could be a stud for the Badgers. Not since that one magical season with Russell Wilson has Wisconsin had a quarterback who can conceivably hang tough in a shootout. Ohio State can, and will, put up points. So whoever faces them in the Big Ten Championship Game would need to be able to play up-tempo with the Buckeyes.

Though Wisconsin could be challenged in the division by teams like Iowa or Northwestern, COVID-19 ruined the Badgers’ season a year ago. So one would think they would be infinitely better in a normal season. If Mertz can progress in his first full normal season as the starter, he could outperform presumptive Ohio State starter CJ Stroud on a huge early December stage in Indy.

For Ohio State not to win the Big Ten title, one of two things must happen. Either a division rival like Indiana, Michigan or Penn State shocks them during the regular season to take their place in Indianapolis as Big Ten East champions or a battle-tested team like Wisconsin, Northwestern or maybe even Iowa plays up a level in the conference title bout with a playoff berth on the line.

Ohio State is the overwhelming favorite to win the Big Ten, but could be challenged this season.

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