It's an exciting time for Big Ten fans as the action heats up this weekend. With all but two teams in action and a top-five matchup between Indiana and Ohio State, there's no shortage of drama. Let's dive in and see what each game has in store. Uncover the Thrills of Big Ten Weekend Football
Purdue vs. Michigan State
Purdue enters this game seeking their first Big Ten win of the season. It's a crucial matchup as Michigan State has dropped three in a row and looks lackluster. However, the game is in East Lansing, which gives Michigan State a home-field advantage. The Boilermakers will need to bring their A-game to have a chance.In the first half, Purdue might struggle to get their offense going. Michigan State's defense will be looking to make a statement. But in the second half, Purdue could find some rhythm and make a comeback. It will be a battle of wills on the field.Final score: Michigan State 30, Purdue 17No. 5 Indiana vs. No. 2 Ohio State
Ohio State is the favorite to win this game, but the line seems a bit off. It opened at 12 points and has now moved to 13.5 in favor of the Buckeyes. Indiana has been impressive, winning every game except the second half against Michigan. But playing in Columbus against Ohio State will be a tough test.The Hoosiers will need to play their best football to keep up with the Buckeyes. Ohio State's offense is potent, and their defense is solid. Indiana will have to find a way to score points and limit Ohio State's opportunities. It could be a close game, but Ohio State is likely to come out on top.Final score: Ohio State 31, Indiana 24No. 25 Illinois vs. Rutgers
Rutgers has turned things around after a four-game losing streak. They've beaten both Minnesota and Maryland in the past two weeks, showing signs of improvement. Illinois, on the other hand, has won only one out of their last three games and looks like a shell of their former selves.At home, Rutgers will be looking to continue their winning streak. Illinois will need to play better on both sides of the ball to have a chance. It will be a battle of attrition, with both teams fighting for every yard.Final score: Rutgers 21, Illinois 17Iowa vs. Maryland
Iowa will be starting their third quarterback of the year due to an injury to Brendan Sullivan. But Kaleb Johnson is a workhorse, and the Iowa defense is facing a struggling Maryland team. The Terps have lost three in a row and will need to find a way to turn things around.In the first half, Iowa will need to rely on their defense to keep Maryland in check. Johnson will need to make some plays with his arm and on the ground. In the second half, Iowa could pull away if they can establish a lead.Final score: Iowa 27, Maryland 17No. 4 Penn State vs. Minnesota
Since losing to Ohio State, the Penn State offense has been on fire. Drew Allar and the running backs are playing well, and Minnesota may be better than some of the other teams in the conference. But the Gophers might not have the firepower to keep up with the Nittany Lions.Penn State's defense will also be looking to make a statement. Minnesota will need to find a way to score points and keep the game close. It will be a battle of two evenly matched teams.Final score: Penn State 31, Minnesota 10Northwestern vs. Michigan
This game features two of the worst offenses in college football. The Wildcats are struggling, and the Wolverines' defense has been a bright spot. If Michigan can continue their defensive dominance, they could become bowl-eligible this weekend.In the first half, Michigan will need to rely on their defense to keep Northwestern at bay. On offense, they'll need to find a way to move the ball. In the second half, Michigan could pull away if they can build a lead.Final score: Michigan 28, Northwestern 10Wisconsin vs. Nebraska
Both Wisconsin and Nebraska have been struggling, losing three and four games in a row respectively. But both teams need a win to make it to a bowl game. Nebraska has shown some signs of competitiveness at home against tough teams.In the first half, it will be a battle of attrition. Both teams will be looking to establish a running game. In the second half, one team could pull away if they can make some key plays.Final score: Nebraska 24, Wisconsin 20USC vs. UCLA
UCLA has been playing well and is competing like a real team under Deshaun Foster. USC is still the premier team, but in this rivalry game, anything can happen.In the first half, both teams will be looking to establish their dominance. USC's offense will be looking to score points, while UCLA's defense will be looking to make stops. In the second half, it could come down to which team makes the fewest mistakes.Final score: USC 31, UCLA 28– Enjoy more Michigan Wolverines coverage on Michigan Wolverines On SI –5-star Michigan target Bryce Underwood subscribes to Wolverines’ latest commitmentBREAKING: Michigan flips Pitt commit, teammate of 5-star QB Bryce UnderwoodThree keys to Michigan Football defeating Northwestern
