(Note: Regular contributor Sam Anderson was in attendance for the National Championship game. He has some stuff to get off his chest.)

It wasn’t until I arrived in the Superdome on Monday night that I realized what we were up against. Senior leadership at every position for the Tigers, crowd noise (probably 70 percent of the dome was made up of LSU fans) and most importantly, there was no sign of a chip on anyone’s shoulder for the Tigers.

The talking heads had written us off as too slow. They said the Big Ten was too weak even though Michigan hung 41 on “media pet” Florida; and Wisconsin was intercepted in the end zone inside of the final minute to get beat in a very competitive game by Tennessee. Let’s not even get started with draft statistics as this article points out among other things.

The biggest problem with all of this speculative blabbering is that our own players may have let it get the best of them. Check that, they definitely let it get the best of them. LSU running back Jacob Hester explained after the game:

“They were talking a lot. Even the guys who weren’t playing were talking a lot.”

The chip on the shoulder led to five personal fouls. All of which were extremely costly.

Many were frustrated with Tressel’s game plan. I was not. It was not Tressel who failed to recover a fumbled punt inside LSU’s 15 yards line when we were up 10-3. It wasn’t Tressel who dropped a touchdown pass that would have cooled off LSU’s onslaught after they tied the game 10-10. If you are mad at Tressel for what his plan was when we fell behind 31-10 you are missing the point. This was a group of young players for Ohio State who were caught up in the moment and sick of being talked down on. LSU simply went about their business and took advantage of both our physical and mental errors.

The crowd didn’t help. It was nothing less than an away game for the Buckeyes. 70 percent of the Superdome was made up of Yellow and Purple and they were LOUD. We were the beneficiary of it against Miami in ’02. However, it was certainly a detriment this year.

The “chip on the shoulder effect” needs to be addressed because if we learned anything last Monday, it isn’t going to do us any good. If both players, and fan base allow people like Mark May, Pat Forde, and Colin Cowherd to shape our views, and rile our blood college football season isn’t going to be near as fun.

Is the SEC so fast we shouldn’t be on the same field as them? It didn’t look that way when our 240 pound tailback ran away from LSU’s all-American safety. Is the Big Ten full of a bunch of mediocre players? Draft statistics certainly don’t suggest as much. Are you going to get embarrassed when you commit five personal fouls and 3 turnovers? I think we all learned the answer to that one. Let’s focus on the facts instead of the talking heads. There is no place in a championship game for undisciplined football. See you in Miami.

We're breaking the mold here at Buckeye Commentary. I asked all of the contributing writers to pen some thoughts and prediction for the game. I add mine at the very bottom. Without further ado:

John Russell:
The last time Jim Tressel faced Les Miles in a bowl game, his Buckeyes were able to out-athlete Oklahoma State on their way to an easy victory. He will not have that luxury this time, as LSU is easily the most talented team OSU will face this season. The key to the Buckeyes' attack will be the ability of the offensive line, particularly on the interior, to give Todd Boeckman time to pass. If they succeed, Boeckman and his receivers have the ability to do some damage against the LSU secondary. However, if the pressure gets to Boeckman, Buckeye fans are all too familiar with what can happen (see: Illinois). The effective threat of the pass will only help Beanie Wells as he does the rest of the work to carry the Buckeye offense.

On defense, OSU should match up far better with LSU than they did Florida a year ago. LSU tends to feature a more traditional attack. While their athletes are very talented, they have not been quite as explosive as one might initially expect. For example, Early Doucet, widely regarded as one of the top senior WRs in the country, has in fact only averaged 9.5 yards per catch in what has been an injury plagued season. Jacob Hester, while a tough and hard-nosed runner, had only one run longer than 22 yards all season. If the Buckeyes can keep LSU from converting any big trick plays, they should at least be competitive in containing the LSU offense.

LSU has everything going for them in this game. The home crowd. A talented roster. Veteran leadership. A fiery coach. But the Buckeyes seem focused and ready for redemption. The prediction of an eternal optimist: 24-17 Ohio State.

Prediction: Ohio State 24-17

Sam Anderson:
When I watched LSU play earlier in the year I thought to myself, “we are two touchdowns better than that team.” I am not going to stray away from what I thought then. There is no better game strategist in college football than Jim Tressel.
It doesn’t help that the game is 80 miles away from LSU, however, with trips to Washington, Purdue, Penn State, and Michigan this team is prepared to play on the road. Also, is there any doubt that there will be 100,000 Buckeye fans making a pilgrimage to New Orleans in order to support Tressel and Crew?

Prediction: Buckeyes: 31-14

Massey:
Whether you like it or not, these teams are very even.   Since 2002, Ohio State is 66-10 (.868) and LSU is 63-15 (.807).  Each team has had great success in BCS Bowls (Ohio State 3-1, LSU 3-0), each with a Crystal Football on their mantle.  And, the last team to defeat each squad just got punished in their respective bowl game.  

So, what can I use to determine advantages in this game?  I will not bore you with OSU stats and player match ups.  If you are reading this, you know it all.  This time it is nothing scientific, just instinct.  There are a few thing that keep floating to the front of my mind.  The first makes me confident and nervous at the same time (and I imagine it does the same for LSU fans).  It's that gambler's streak that Miles seems to have passed along to the team.  They appear to be confident at all times and are willing to risk everything.  That is a great swagger to have but it can get you in trouble in a hurry.  In my mind, LSU's 11-2 is as close to being 13-0 as it is to being 7-5.  They were 12 for 15 on 4th down this season.  At first blush I say, "Wow, that is really impressive."  And, then I think, "Why do they have to go for it on 4th down so often?"  Because they are often losing late in games.  Of course, if they continue to be so successful on 4th down then the Buckeyes' defense is going to have a tough time getting off the field.  Still, I love Ohio State's chances if they have a fourth quarter lead in the game.  

Second, they are too careless.  Don't get me wrong, they are very talented, but they make a lot of mistakes.  Did you know that  LSU led the SEC in penalties with 113 for 844 yards on the season.  By contrast, Ohio State only had 65 for 491 yards.  With the way Tressel play field position, penalties can have a magnified effect on the game.  

Finally, what is going on with their red zone defense?  On the season, LSU's opponents were 30 for 35 in the red zone (86%) scoring 22 TDs (63%).  Yikes!  Their opponents' numbers are even more impressive when they were ranked opponents (14 for 16 for 12 TDs) and when LSU lost (11 for 11 for 9 TDs).  And, at home with the Death Valley crowd howling?  Their opponents were 15 for 16 for 12 TDs.  Goodbye Superdome home field advantage.  

There are hundreds of other factors I could focus on, but those are the three that keep coming up in my head.  In the end, a couple of costly penalties and a big stop by the Buckeyes' defense on 4th down will seal the victory.  

Prediction: Ohio State 21, LSU 18

Keith Courter:
The others have condensed it very nicely. The only thing I'll say is I'm excited and nervous and I can't help but think this time will be different.

Prediction: Ohio State 27-21

Jerk(noun): slang; a contemptibly naive, fatuous, foolish, or inconsequential person.

Illinois (7-3) at Minnesota (1-9)
Score: 44-17 Illinois

A few stats: Juice Williams (Ill.): 14-21, 207 yards, 2 TD’s, Rashard Mendenhall (Ill.): 17 carries, 201 yards, 2 TD’s, Jason Reda (Ill.): 3 field goals (37, 47, 51). Adam Weber (Minn.): 18-31, 208 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: Illinois rolled up 655 total yards on the Gophers including 448 yards rushing…Juice Williams played very well so Eddie McGee didn’t see the field a whole lot…Arrelious Benn(#9) was held to 4 catches for 17 yards but you better believe he is going to be looking to do a little more in the Shoe next weekend…Illinitalk usually offers a recap and later in the week you can look for a game preview…Mendenhall(#5) must be stopped because unlike P.J. Hill, he will be healthy and excited.
Game Changer: Rashard Mendenhall

Michigan (8-2) at Michigan State (5-5)
Score: 28-24 Michigan

A few stats: Mike Hart (UM): 15 carries, 110 yards, Chad Henne (UM): 18-33, 211 yards, 4 TD’s, Mario Manningham (UM): 8 catches, 129 yards, 2 TD’s
A couple words: Same ‘ol story, Michigan plays poorly, rallies late, Mike Hart laughs the media eats it up…Congrats to Michigan on turning their season around but I don’t blame sites like mgoblog for calling for a coaching change.
Game Changer: Mario Manningham

Purdue (7-3) at Penn State (7-3)
Score: 26-19 Penn State

A few stats: Anthony Morelli (PSU): 22-35, 210 yards, 1 TD, Derrick Williams (PSU): 10 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: Please click on the link to get an appreciation for why Penn State fans are jerks…Derrick Williams had a big day for the Lions on senior day…Dorien Bryant returned the opening kick for a touchdown for Purdue…It was senior day for Penn State, I wonder how loud the cheers were for Morelli when his name was announced?
Game Changer: Derrick Williams.

Preface: We at the Review would like to congratulate Anthony Morelli. With Jenkins’ pick six last night; Morelli officially became the poor man's Zach Mills.

Indiana (5-4) at Wisconsin (7-2)
Score: 33-3 Wisconsin

A few stats: Tyler Donovan (Wisc.): 12-21, 144 yards, 1 int, Kyle Jefferson (Wisc.): 3 catches, 50 yards; Kellen Lewis (Indiana): 17-33, 113 yards, 2 int’s; Marcus Thigpen (Indiana): 11 catches, 70 yards.
A couple words: P.J. Hill left the game with a “lower leg injury” according to ESPN…Indiana’s offense was non-existent…Travis Beckum (#9) is a weapon for the Badgers and the Bucks need to have an eye on him next week; he will line up at tight end and wide out…Even without Hill in for the whole game Wisconsin ran for 279 yards.
Game Changer: Lance Smith-Williams(Wisc.): 2 TD’s and 79 yards filling in for Hill.

Ball State (5-4) at Illinois (6-3)
Score: 28-17 Illinois

A few stats: Rashard Mendenhall (Ill.): 28 carries, 189 yards, 2 TD’s, Juice Williams (Ill.): 7-15, 145 yards, 2 int’s, Arrelious Benn (Ill.): 4 catches, 97 yards.
A couple words: Illinois gets a legitimate win over an up and coming MAC school who gave Nebraska a run for their money earlier this year...Rashard Mendenhall continues to put up big numbers…Juice Williams continues to struggle passing, but now that Illinois is bowl eligible for the first time since 2001, many will forgive him…Not to beat a dead horse but we need to be ready for this Illinois squad in two weeks. They have too many athletes.
Game Changer: Rashard Mendenhall (Ill.): If Mike Hart is going to stand on the sidelines all season this guy should be first team all Big Ten. Think I am crazy? Check out Mendenhall’s statistics here. Check out Hart’s here. I don’t know about you but I like the running back with more yards rushing, more yards per carry, and more receptions.

Minnesota (1-8) at Michigan (7-2)
Score: 34-10 Michigan

A few stats: Mario Manningham (Michigan): 5 catches, 162 yards, 1 TD, Ryan Mallet (Michigan): 11-20, 233 yards, 1 TD, Brandon Minor (Michigan): 21 carries, 157 yards, 1 TD. Adam Weber (Minnesota): 14-30, 99 yards.
A couple words: I think the last time I saw the whole Michigan team on the field it was here. Check that, it might have been here....MZone takes the time to put Ryan Mallet in his place while the comments left on mgoblog are anything but flattering…The bottom line is that Michigan keeps on winning, but spare me the All-American/Heisman hype for Mr. Hart if he continues to sit on the sidelines…Jim Tressel sent a message to Chris Wells a few weeks ago by starting him against Kent State when he was dinged up, L-L-L-L-Loyd must not feel it is necessary to promote toughness like that.
Game Changer: Mario Manningham: 5 catches for 162 yards leaves him with a nice average.

With the home stretch approaching in the regular season of college football many teams have put themselves in a position to make a run, others have thrown in the towel, while still others are “laying in the weeds” and with a big run to finish out the season, could find themselves positioned nicely in the Big Ten standings come bowl season.

Ohio State has done what many expected them to do, going 8-0 headed into Happy Valley. Penn State forced Indiana into 4 turnovers last weekend and Anthony Morelli had a solid game statistically going 22-32 for 195 yards and two touchdowns. If nothing else he is going to have confidence going into this weekend.

Without the key to their offense playing, Michigan went to Champagne and put Illinois in their place. Michigan has now positioned themselves to make a run at two of the three goals they talked about during the off-season. The Big Ten title is still very much in reach and beating Ohio State may even mean more than that. No reason to speculate what Michigan is thinking about doing with Lloyd Carr; whether Les Miles is interested in Michigan; whether Michigan is interested in Les Miles, blah blah blah. Michigan is positioned to do some big things after a tough start.

Wisconsin, Illinois, and Penn State have all become “middle of the pack” teams in the Big Ten, statistically. Talent wise many would assume this is a step up for Illinois while Penn State and Wisconsin have to be a little disappointed. Wisconsin’s loss to Illinois, Illinois’ loss to Iowa, and Penn State’s loss to Michigan set the tone for the first half of their respective seasons. However, if any of these teams win out, they will have themselves in position for two weeks in a warm climate and a very respectable bowl game come December or January. Without sounding too negative, my belief is that if any of these teams were in the SEC they would be ranked highly in the top 25.

Purdue, Northwestern, and Indiana have all fielded competitive football teams but for different reasons have failed to establish themselves as a title contender. Each was given a chance. Indiana had a chance to beat Penn State on Saturday. Purdue was beaten badly in consecutive weeks by Ohio State and Michigan. Northwestern also played Michigan competitively.

Michigan State, Iowa, and Minnesota have all struggled. Michigan State and Minnesota are struggling through coaching changes while Iowa lost a big senior class last year. Michigan State has a nice talent pool and it will certainly grow with Dantonio in charge; Minnesota may have the best freshman quarterback in the conference in Adam Weber, and Iowa’s Christenson is only a sophomore. Look for them to make runs in the near future.

The Bucks have performed the best so far and deserve to be atop of the standings. However, with Michigan starting to roll, and Illinois, Penn State, and Wisconsin just a few wild weekends away from finding themselves on top, don’t blink. We could find ourselves on the outside looking in faster than Malcolm Jenkins disrupting a slant route.

Upset Watch:
Michigan @ Michigan State, November 3rd
Indiana @ Wisconsin, October 27
Illinois @ Ohio State, November 10th

Note: If you find this topic outdated, be sure to realize that the Big Ten Network (BTN) is going to be carrying close to 50% of Buckeye basketball games this year too. If football didn’t make you switch, will basketball?

While much of the dust has settled from the initial wave of disgust, I thought it might be good to evaluate the channel now that it has been airing for almost two months. WOW has closed a deal with the BTN but obviously many fans who are subscribers to the three largest cable providers (which includes Time Warner) are still in the dark. I am a subscriber to the Buckeye Cable System and have received the network from day one. I will outline a few major items of the BTN and encourage any kind of feedback.

Throughout the first two months, the content certainly doesn’t warrant paying an extra dollar a month. The BTN happened to get lucky and carry the Michigan vs. Appalachian State fiasco but truthfully, on a day to day basis, the network is entirely unexciting. There is a reason why only 200 people show for the Northwestern vs. Penn State woman’s soccer game. While it is great to broadcast it, does it warrant an extra charge? I think not.

Content certainly relates to price as Time Warner’s (and Comcast's) biggest gripe is that while it may be a good idea for a few football Saturday’s in the fall, what about the rest of the year? All Big Ten sports are great, but is it reasonable to charge everyone extra to be able to view Wisconsin take on Iowa in Track and Field? Football games do not take place every weekend throughout the entire year.

The BTN will continue to frustrate fans who are not subscribers come basketball season as the BTN already has 7 Buckeye games scheduled to air exclusively on the network. In fact, that number is likely to grow as times and slots are finalized. Games to be aired on BTN include the Illinois game in Columbus as well as the Purdue game in West Lafayette.

Perhaps what bothers me the most is the fashion in which the BTN/Fox is conducting business. At its most basic level, the Big Ten and Fox decided to create a network to make a profit without considering the fans that lose out in the situation. Games are being aired that fans are unable to watch in the confines of their homes because of a deal that can’t be reached with the three main providers. And this alone falls at the feet of the BTN for their inability to sell their own station and offer a agreeable terms. For these negotiations to be going on during a season in which everyone is held captive is nothing short of pathetic regardless of which party is holding out. Clearly the focus is not on the fans.

Purdue (5-2) at Michigan (5-2)
Score: 48-21 Michigan

A few stats: Chad Henne:21-28, 264 yards, 2 TD’s, Mike Hart 21 carries, 102 yards, 2 TD’s; Mario Manningham: 8 catches, 147 yards, 2 TD’s. Curtis Painter: 17-28, 113 yards, Kory Sheets: 4 carries, 19 yards.
A couple words: Purdue proves to have been a beneficiary of poor opponents throughout their first five games…Chad Henne looked sharp for the first time this season and Mario Manningham returned from “suspension” to have a big day…Mgoblog and MZone are both late posting but should have interesting things to say this week as Michigan seems to have resurfaced from early season disaster, check that: DISASTER.…No doubt that the Wolverines have goals like the Big Ten Title, a BCS game, and beating the Bucks on their mind, as well they should…Mike Hart hobbled off during the game for the 500th time in his career…He will come back next week and be viewed as a warrior by Wolverines all over the world.
Game Changer: Mario Manningham. 147 yards receiving is a good way to get back in the groove.

Wisconsin (5-2) at Penn State (5-2)
Score: 38-7 Penn State

A few stats: Rodney Kinlaw: 23 carries, 115 yards, 1 TD, Anthony Morelli: 16-28, 216 yards, 1 TD, P.J. Hill: 19 carries, 75 yards, 1 TD. Kyle Jefferson: 7 catches, 124 yards.
A couple words: Understand that Luke Swan is hurt, but he doesn’t play on the Wisconsin defense that allowed 437 yards of total offense by Penn State…To beat Penn State you need to stop the run, force Morelli to be a playmaker, and score 17 points. Wisconsin didn’t do any of the above…I’m torn between giving Penn State credit or chastising Wisconsin for giving Buckeye Fans hope of having a big time opponent welcomed into The Horseshoe this year…One thing is for sure, with this Penn State victory, Kernkraft 400 is going to echo through the hills of Happy Valley in a few weeks.
Game Changer: Rodney Kinlaw: If he can run for 115 yards a game Anthony Morelli won’t have to make a play the entire year.

Illinois (5-2) at Iowa (3-4)
Score: 10-6 Iowa

A few stats: Jake Christensen: 17-25, 182 yards, 1 TD, Juice Williams: 9-15, 98 yards, Rashard Mendenhall: 15 carries, 67 yards.
A couple words: This game is a perfect example of why many fans and critics alike think that the Big Ten is weak…See that angle, but think this had a lot more to do with the fact that Ron Zook has a young group who was looking ahead to Michigan…Illinitalk discusses special teams concerns, killer instinct, and why this year is better than last for Illinois…I’m going to gamble and say the glass is half full, as I believe that Illinois is a team that lost to #17 Missouri in overtime, not a team that lost to an unranked Iowa team.
Game Changer: Brett Greenwood for game ending interception.

Indiana (5-2) at Michigan State (5-2)
Score: 52-27 MSU

A Few Stats: Brian Hoyer: 20-23, 190 yards, 1 TD, Javon Ringer: 29 carries, 203 yards, 1 TD, Devin Thomas: 13 catches, 148 yards, 1 TD, Kellen Lewis(Ind.): 13-19, 171 yards, 1 TD. Michigan State (Time of Possession): 41:05 minutes. Indiana (Time of Possession): 18:55 minutes.
A couple words: As ESPN points out, if Kellen Lewis isn't on the filed, he can't beat you as the Spartans dominated the clock by running the ball on Indiana for 368 yards and dominated TOP as noted earlier…Javon Ringer is having an All Big 10 year and Mark Dantonio gets an A in football strategy…The Enlightened Spartan provides some numbers and seems satisfied…If Javon Ringer can run the ball, Saturday is going to be a battle in Columbus.
Game Changer: Javon Ringer. Between him and Devin Thomas, MSU has two big time weapons. We will have to see what Malcolm thinks about that on Saturday.

Eastern Michigan (2-4) at Michigan (4-2)
Score: 33-22 Michigan

A few stats: Chad Henne:17-26, 195 yards, 1 TD, 2 int’s, Mike Hart 22 carries, 215 yards, 3 TD’s; Adrian Arrington: 6 catches, 102 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: A close game that in which ESPN called Mike Harts performance “a career day.” The funny thing is that Mike Hart’s career will be remembered by his mouth and his numbers vs. Eastern Michigan…Hart insisted, “I honestly wasn’t worried”, about Eastern Michigan that is…MGoblog is beginning to talk about everything except this year, while MZONE writes thank you letters to USC.
Game Changer: Mike Hart for his career day.

Wisconsin (5-1) at Illinois (5-1)
Score: 31-26 Illinois

A few stats: Rashard Mendenhall: 19 carries, 160 yards, 2 TD’s, Juice Williams: 12-19, 121 yards, 1 TD. P.J. Hill: 21 carries, 83 yards, 0 TD’s. Travis Beckum: 11 catches, 160 yards.
A couple words: Illinois stopped P.J. Hill and therefore stopped Wisconsin…Travis Beckum had a big day while Luke Swan is out for the year with a torn hamstring....Hill’s ineffectiveness led to Tyler Donovan and Wisconsin to pass more than often in the second half as Donovan ended with 392 yards passing...Illinitalk makes reference to some outrageous accusations by a certain Badger and seems to be happy with the outcome…Illinois is currently using two quarterbacks with great efficiency as Eddie McGee has been getting a decent amount of time.
Game Changer: Illinois Defense for taking Hill out of the game.

Northwestern (3-3) at Michigan State (4-2)
Score: 48-41 Northwestern

A few stats: C.J. Bacher: 38-48, 520 yards, 5 TD’s, Brian Hoyer: 17-31, 194 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: A very disappointing performance by Michigan State’s defense in East Lansing…Javon Ringer had another big day…Allowing 520 yards of passing is a bad sign for MSU who plays Indiana next week…The Enlightened Spartan rips on Brent Musberger, talks of their chances against Indiana, and is bitter about the defense. How could they not be?
Game Changer: C.J. Bacher: 520 yards passing and 5 TD’s.

Michigan St. (4-1) at Wisconsin (5-0)
Score: 37-34 Wisconsin

A few stats: P.J. Hill (Wisc.): 34 carries, 155 yards, 2 TD’s, Travis Beckum (Wisc.): 10 catches, 132 yards, 1 TD, Brian Hoyer (MSU): 22-36, 323 yards 2 TD’s; Javon Ringer (MSU): 10 carries, 145 yards, 7 receptions, 88 yards.
A couple words: Wisconsin escapes in a game Michigan State gave away with absurd penalties down the stretch…The first team that stops P.J. Hill will beat Wisconsin…Over 1000 yards of total offense between both teams…Kyle Jefferson was knocked out of the game when he took a massive hit… Marcus Randle El (Wisc.) and Chris Rucker (MSU) were ejected for throwing punches…The Enlightened Spartan is satisfied…Give Dantonio a little more time and the Spartans will be a force.
Game Changer: P.J. Hill: 155 yards, 2 TD’s…if you can’t stop him, you can’t beat Wisconsin.

Penn State (3-2) at Illinois (4-1)
Score: 27-20 Illinois

A few stats: Rejis Benn (Ill.): 2 TD’s, Rashard Mendenhall (Ill.): 18 carries, 76 yards, 1 TD, Anthony Morelli (PSU): 21-38, 298 yards 1 TD, 3 Int’s;
A couple words: Rejus Benn is the real deal for a freshman…Anthony Morelli should be pulled…Ron Zook seems to have Illinois on track as this was their first win over a ranked opponent since 2001…Illinitalk gives Benn the props he deserves, rejoices in victory, and continues to question whether or not Juice Williams should be their man under center…Joe Pa said PSU would “have to address the turnover issue.”
Game Changer: Rejis Benn (Ill.): 90 yard kick return for a touchdown and a reception for a touchdown.

Michigan (3-2) at Northwestern (2-3)
Score: 28-16 Michigan

A few stats: Mike Hart (UM): 30 carries, 106 yards, 1 TD, Chad Henne (UM): 18-27, 193 yards, 3 TD’s, Mario Manningham (UM): 10 catches, 123 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: Still no Tyrell Sutton for Northwestern…Michigan was losing 16-7 after the first half…Misery loves company so rather than headline the Wolverines, MZone talks about all the upsets…Henne had a big brace on his right leg and shared time with Mallet for awhile although Henne is certainly the superior QB.
Game Changer: Chad Henne: His fire ignited the troops and sparked a comeback…vs. Northwestern

Notre Dame (0-5) at Purdue (5-0)
Score: 33-19 Purdue

A few stats: Curtis Painter 22-37, 252 yards, 2 TD’s, 2 Int’s, Dorien Bryant (Purdue): 8 catches, 82 yards, 1 TD, Kory Sheets (Purdue): 27 carries, 141 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: Purdue is the real deal even though they didn’t play their best game versus the Irish…Check out Curtis Painter’s season stats here…Check out Dorien Bryant’s season stats here…And above all, pray that Saturday's game doesn't come down to something like this!
Game Changer: Painter, Sheets, Bryant…pick your poison…Our D needs to be ready.

Iowa (2-3) at Indiana (4-1)
Score: 38-20 Indiana

A few stats: Kellen Lewis (Indiana): 19-26, 322 yards, 3 TD’s
A couple words: Kellen Lewis again with a solid performance…Check out his fumble recovery that resulted in a 71 yard touchdown run here…Indiana has quietly started the season 4-1 and has some serious athleticism…Iowa meanwhile, is again spending Sunday talking about next year.
Game Changer: Kellen Lewis

Michigan St. (4-0) at Notre Dame (0-4)
Score: 31-14 MSU

A few stats: Brian Hoyer (MSU): 11-24, 135 yards 4 TD’s; Devin Thomas (MSU): 4 receptions, 55 yards 1 TD. Javon Ringer (MSU): 26 carries, 144 yards; Kellen Davis (MSU): 2 TD catches.
A couple words: A close game early but Michigan State improves to 4-0…Brian Hoyer took advantage of every opportunity while throwing four touchdowns…Kellen Davis played tight end and defensive end and had an impact on both sides of the ball… The Enlightened Spartan takes some shots at Notre Dame, feels good about Devin Thomas, and claims Mark Dantonio is a physician.
Game Changer: Kellen Davis (TE/DE): After two TD catches, the next thing you know he is rushing the passer.

Penn State (3-1) at Michigan (2-2)
Score: 14-9 Michigan

A few stats: Mike Hart(UM): 44 carries, 153 yards, 1 TD; Ryan Mallet(UM): 16-29, 170 yards, 1 int; Anthony Morelli (PSU): 15-31, 169 yds; Kevin Kelly (PSU): 3 field goals.
A couple words: Lee Corso has Mike Hart number 1 on his Heisman list… MGoBlog dissects every aspect of what was an extremely poorly played game…At what point does Penn State bench Anthony Morelli? Tell Joe Pa nice knowing ya? Score a touchdown?
Game Changer: Mike Hart: He runs hard and is one of very few weapons for Michigan.

Illinois (3-1) at Indiana (3-1)
Score: 27-14 Illinois

A few stats: Rashard Mendenhall (Ill.): 27 carries, 214 yards, 1 TD; Juice Williams (Ill.): 13-28, 98 yards, 2 TD’s, 2 int’s; Kellen Lewis (Ind.): 26-51 263 yards, 2 TD’s, 1 int.
A couple words: The Illini were able to limit Kellen Lewis’ effectiveness on the ground and Rashard Mendenhall averaged almost 7.9 yards per carry for Illinois…Illinitalk gives props to their Defense and Mendenhall, but seems to be growing frustrated with Juice Williams.
Game Changer: Rashard Mendenhall

Iowa (2-2) at Wisconsin (4-0)
Score: 17-13 Wisconsin

A few stats: P.J. Hill(Wisc.): 29 carries, 113 yards, 1 TD. Tyler Donovan (Wisc.): 12-23, 138 yards, 1 TD, 1 int; Jake Christensen (Iowa): 17-37, 169 yards, 1 TD; Albert Young (Iowa): 10 rushes, 33 yards.
A couple words: Bret Bielema: “I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game”…Iowa was 2-16 on third down conversions…I thought Brent Musberger was going to have a heart attack when Christensen overthrew his last ball which could have won it for the Hawkeyes…Iowa is going to be good next year, although, don’t we say that every couple of years?...P.J. Hill is a “good” back and Wisconsin is a “good” team; not going to go much further than that.
Game Changer: P.J. Hill

Purdue (4-0) at Minnesota (1-3)
Score: 45-31 Purdue

A few stats: Curtis Painter (Purdue): 33-48, 338 yards, 3 TD’s; Dorien Bryant (Purdue): 12 catches, 150 yards, 2 TD’s. Adam Weber (Minn.): 23-44, 237 yards, 1 TD, 1 int.
A couple words: Purdue continues to roll behind Curtis Painter…Dorien Bryant will probably be a first team all Big Ten receiver…Adam Weber will have better games before his career is over at Minnesota…Video of some sloppy play here.
Game Changer: Dorien Bryant

Preface: For all the talk of the Big Ten being down this year, I challenge anyone to show me another conference that has three teams in the AP top 10 right now. Maybe people should ask Jake Locker about just how down the Big Ten is...

Pittsburgh(2-1) at Michigan St.(3-0)
Score: 17-13 MSU

A few stats: Brian Hoyer(MSU): 14-28, 183 yards; Devin Thomas(MSU): 3 receptions, 53 yards. Javon Ringer(MSU): 20 carries, 92 yards.
A couple words: Defensive touchdowns and hard play helped Mark Dantonio’s Spartans to improve to 3-0…Pittsburg is riddled with injuries…Kellen Davis may be the best tight end in the Big 10…The Enlightened Spartan talks about penalty issues and “ugly wins” but I say congrats to Dantonio because there is nothing like a 3-0 start as a new head coach.
Game Changer: Travis Key(DB/MSU): His “pick 6” helped the Spartans win a close one.


Notre Dame(0-3) at Michigan(1-2)
Score: 38-0 Michigan

A few stats: Mike Hart(UM): 35 carries, 187 yards, 2 TD’s; Ryan Mallet(UM): 7-15, 90 yards, 3 TD’s. Jimmy Clausen(ND): 11-17, 74 yards, 1 int.
A couple words: Charlie Weis:

“My confidence isn’t shaken, but as an organization we haven’t done a very good job.”

…Can one win over a depleted Notre Dame program give Michigan the confidence boost for Penn State this weekend? MGoBlog discusses this, recruiting, and has more than a few videos on display.
Game Changer: Mike Hart’s mouth(the mouth alone is capable of taking the Irish this year)

Buffalo(1-2) at Penn State(3-0)
Score: 45-24 Penn State

A few stats: Anthony Morelli: 20-27, 202 yards, 4 TD’s; Rodney Kinlaw (PSU): 23 carries, 129 yards, 1 TD. Buffalo: 339 yards passing.
A couple words: Yet another game where you wonder what is going on as Buffalo led 3-0 after 1 quarter…Austin Scott was replaced with Kinlaw after being diagnosed with “fumbleitis”…Morelli will see a slightly better defensive backfield this week in Ann Arbor…Buffalo has won just 13 games in the past 8 seasons.
Game Changer: Anthony Morelli (PSU): 4 touchdown passes. Read More...

(Note: To provide more content, things keep a changing here at BC so please welcome our newest contributor, Sam Anderson. While we all love Ohio State, there are 10 other teams that make up the conference and impact our chances at a title run. Sam will keep us abreast of their seasons and standout performers. Today is his first installment.)

Bowling Green(1-1) at Michigan St.(2-0)
Score: 28-17 MSU

A few stats: Tyler Sheehan(BG): 295 yards passing, 1 TD; Brian Hoyer(MSU): 17-29, 250 yards, 2 TD’s; Devin Thomas(MSU): 4 receptions, 156 yards, 1 TD.
A couple words: Michigan State had 7 sacks in a competitive game as Bowling Green was coming off a big win at Minnesota in week 1... Check out the Enlightened Spartan for a decent synopsis along with a little finger pointing at the Zebras.
Game Changer: Brian Hoyer(MSU)


Oregon(2-0) at Michigan(0-2)
Score: 39-7 Oregon

A few stats: Dennis Dixon: 368 total yards; Oregon: 331 yards rushing; Michigan: 365 total yards (only 7 points)
A couple words: Mike Hart: “I guarantee we win next week”…Chad Henne left the game early and is doubtful for next week…Talk at of Les Miles going to Michigan here…Good visuals and more downtrodden rhetoric here.
Game Changer: Dennis Dixon (Oregon): 292 yards passing, 76 yards rushing, 4 total TD’s.


Notre Dame(0-2) at Penn State(2-0)
Score: 31-10 Penn State

A few stats: 110,078 in attendance; Anthony Morelli: 12-22, 131 yards, 1 touchdown; Austin Scott(PSU): 28 carries, 116 yards, 2 TD’s; Jimmy Clausen: 17-32, 144 yards, 1 int.
A couple words: Dan Connor referred to Notre Dame as a “powerhouse” after the game. Not sure if a team that hasn’t won a bowl game in over 10 years can be considered a powerhouse…110,078 people painted white and dancing to Zombie Nation’s Kernkraft 400 probably had a small effect on Jimmy Clausen… It doesn’t look like Penn State is ever going to get the performance out of Anthony Morelli they expected…Derrick Williams took a punt back 78 yards for a score.
Game Changer: PSU defense. Read More...