Illinois at Michigan
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Place: Ann Arbor, Mich.
Line: Michigan by 7
TV: ABC
Records: Illinois (3-0, 0-0 Big Ten), Michigan (2-1, 0-0)
What’s at stake: Michigan is looking to win its 20th straight Big Ten opener, while Illinois is looking to start the season 4-0 for the first time since 1951.
Overview: Most numbers point toward another Michigan victory in the Big House – but Saturday’s game may come down to more than just the odds. After Michigan knocked off Illinois 35-31 last year in a controversial game – preventing the Fighting Illini from starting 4-0 – Illinois went into a downward spiral. The Wolverines’ offense, however, may be without starting tailback Chris Perry, who injured his knee.
Penn St. at Iowa
Time: 11:10 a.m.
Place: Iowa City, Iowa
Line: Iowa by 9
TV: ESPN
Records: Penn State (0-2, 0-1), Iowa (2-0, 0-0)
What’s at stake: The last time Penn State started 0-3 was in 1983, with its third loss coming against Iowa.
Overview: Joe Paterno’s frustration may not subside at all this weekend. Iowa has proven to be the real deal this year. The Hawkeyes have won four of their last five regular season games, dating back to their double-overtime win at Penn State last year. Iowa quarterback Kyle McCann boasts the highest quarterback rating in the Big Ten.
Ohio St. at Indiana
Time: 11:10 a.m.
Place: Bloomington, Ind.
Line: Ohio St. by 9
TV: ESPN Plus
Records: Ohio State (1-1, 0-0), Indiana (0-2, 0-0)
What’s at stake: Ohio State quarterback Steve Bellisari’s job could be on the line if he doesn’t prove that last week’s poor showing was just bad luck.
Overview: If Indiana is looking to turn around its shaky program, this weekend might be its best shot. With the Ohio State offense earning a mere 166 total yards last week, the Hoosiers could squeak out a win if quarterback Antwaan Randle El has a good showing.
Purdue at Minnesota
Time: 11 a.m.
Place: Minneapolis
Line: Purdue by 4 1/2
TV: ESPN2
Records: Purdue (2-0, 0-0), Minnesota (1-1, 0-0)
What’s at stake: Minnesota is looking to shake off an embarrassing 38-7 loss to Toledo.
Overview: The field will be scattered with fresh faces Saturday, as Minnesota’s defense returns only two starters and Purdue’s offensive line features four new starters. The Boilermakers’ newest up-and-comer, freshman quarterback Brandon Hance, will be called on to continue his impressive performances.
Western Kentucky
at Wisconsin
Time: 1:05 p.m.
Place: Madison, Wis.
Line: None
TV: None
Records: W. Kentucky (2-1), Wisconsin (2-2, 1-0)
What’s at stake: Wisconsin quarterback Brooks Bollinger could solidify his spot as the Badgers’ starter.
Overview: Wisconsin redshirt freshman tailback Anthony Davis became only the team’s seventh freshman tailback to rush for 200 yards in a game. The Big Ten’s leading rusher could have a good opportunity to pad his stats this weekend. After missing two field goals and an extra point last week, kicker Mike Allen will have to bear down to keep his starting job.
