Big Ten Football: Week 12 Predictions for Every Big Ten Championship Score.
This weekend, all 14 Big Ten teams will be playing. There aren’t many “big” games this weekend, but there are a couple that could have significant consequences. Michigan will play Maryland on Saturday in an attempt to win the program’s 1,000th game. If Ohio State and the Wolverines both win, the game the following weekend will be a battle for all the marbles.
This season, Iowa has almost won the Big Ten West. Before facing the Buckeyes or Michigan, the Hawkeyes hope to build some more offensive momentum. This weekend’s nightcap features two 5-5 teams, with Wisconsin and Nebraska both looking to qualify for bowl games.
Trent’s SU record after ten weeks of play is 76-15.
Michigan vs. Maryland — Noon ET
Michigan recently defeated Penn State in a thrilling victory. Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of the Wolverines, was not on the sidelines despite serving a suspension less than 24 hours before the game. I don’t think it will matter in this one even if it’s unclear at this point whether Harbaugh will be coaching versus Maryland. Maryland lacks Michigan’s talent, and the Wolverines are aware of the stakes. Although quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa might cause some problems, the Wolverines’ defense has been too strong this year to consider anything else.
Michigan 38, Maryland 10
Rutgers vs. Penn State — Noon ET
Following yet another lackluster offensive performance by Drew Allar and company, Penn State sacked their offensive coordinator. The Nittany Lions’ defense is excellent, even though their offense hasn’t been up to standard. Rutgers has scored a total of 16 points in its last two games, so it’s doubtful the Scarlet Knights will be able to muster much of an offensive response against the PSU defense. Penn State should win at home, but I’m not expecting them to score a lot of points.
Penn State 24, Rutgers 6
Michigan State vs. Indiana — Noon ET
Recently, Indiana’s offensive performance has improved significantly. In that order, the Hoosiers have scored 45, 20, and 24 points. With its strong defensive and offensive capabilities, Indiana should pose a threat to Michigan State. The Spartans will likely lose a close game on Saturday because they have trouble finding the end zone.
Indiana 24, Michigan State 17
Purdue vs. Northwestern — Noon ET
Following his official announcement as Northwestern’s head coach, David Braun has the Wildcats performing admirably. Northwestern is poised to win six games and currently sits second in the Western Conference. Purdue has struggled all season with turnovers, despite the Boilermakers’ ability to move the ball. That’s not going to change this weekend in Evanston, I think.
Northwestern 21, Purdue 20
Illinois vs. Iowa — 3:30 p.m. ET
Illinois has won its last three games out of four because of its excellent ball movement lately. But against that Iowa defense, it’s difficult to move the ball. Even though the Hawkeyes don’t produce much on the offensive end and are still strong on defense, beating Rutgers by 22 points is encouraging.
Iowa 17, Illinois 6
Minnesota vs. Ohio State — 4:00 p.m. ET
The Minnesota defense is not performing up to par, while the Ohio State offense is. If the Buckeyes defeat the Gophers on Saturday, they are aware of what is at risk. Ohio State will face off against an unbeaten team in Ann Arbor the following weekend.
Ohio State 35, Minnesota 10
Nebraska vs. Wisconsin — 7:30 p.m. ET
Both teams need to snap their respective losing streaks in order to be eligible for bowl games. The Badgers have lost three straight games, while Nebraska has dropped its last two games. Wisconsin is generally competitive at home, but I can see either team winning this one. That will be a close one, I suppose, for the Badgers.