Big Ten Football: Power Rankings – Week One
THE BOTTOM FEEDERS
14. Illinois (12)
Last Week: 28-17 win over Youngstown State
Wes Lunt’s three fourth quarter passing touchdowns allowed the Illini to beat the Penguins, but that he needed such an offensive output to win against an FCS opponent is worrisome.
This Week: Western Kentucky (Sept 6 – 11 a.m. on BTN)
My Prediction: Western Kentucky 31-28
13. Purdue (14)
Last Week: 34-25 win over Western Michigan
The Boilermakers snapped their 10-game losing streak, and coach Darrell Hazell grabbed his first victory over an FBS oppenent as the Boilermakers’ head coach. The season is officially more successful than 2013.
This Week: Central Michigan (Sept 6 – 11 a.m. on ESPNEWS)
My Prediction: Purdue 49-31
12. Northwestern (11)
Last Week: 31-24 loss to California
The Wildcats just couldn’t shift into gear fast enough against the Bears. Northwestern’s comeback was admirable, but Pat Fitzgerald starts out the season 0-1.
This Week: Northern Illinois (Sept 6 – 2:30 p.m. on BTN)
My Prediction: Northwestern 38-28
11. Maryland (10)
Last Week: 52-7 win over James Madison
Maryland did exactly what they needed to do, dominating an FCS opponent. How will they fair against FBS competition?
This Week: At South Florida (Sept 6 – 2:30 p.m. on CBS Sports Network)
My Prediction: Maryland 45-20
10.Indiana (9)
Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports
Last Week: 28-10 win over Indiana state
Indiana was known for it’s high flying offense in 2013, while its running game was overlooked as a result.
Things have clearly changed as running back Tevin Coleman racked up 247 yards during a day that featured 455 total yards on the ground for the Hoosiers.
Make no mistake, Indiana should still be able to gain big yards through the air with quarterback Nate Sudfield. The 111 passing yardage against the Sycamores will likely be a season low.
However, if Kevin Wilson wants to finally take Indiana bowling, he has to keep his defense off the field. Running the ball with the success of this past weekend will do just that, but can the Hoosiers keep it up?
Even though Indiana State’s an FCS opponent, Indiana allowed a mere 10 points. Not a bad opening day for any team.
Indiana will have more time to scheme for Bowling Green, as the Candy Stripers are the lone conference team with a bye this week.