Iowa (11-1, 8-0) Iowa’s performance against Georgia Tech in the Orange bowl last season was a thing of beauty. The Hawkeyes held the Jacket’s powerful offense to just 155 yards of total offense. GT had been averaging 442.69 yards prior to that January matchup. Iowa doesn’t lose many pieces this year and has a favorable schedule as the 3 top teams from the conference last year all visit Iowa City.
Ohio State (10-2, 7-1) Ohio State reloads as it always does each season. However how far OSU goes fringes on one man: Terrelle Pryor. Sure, he was phenomenal at the end of last season in the Rose Bowl, but he was mediocre at best during the regular season. Questions still remain about his health and we’ll see how he’s matured as an all-around QB this season.
Wisconsin (10-2, 6-2) In Wisconsin, Brett Bielima silenced his haters somewhat after last year. For the past few seasons Wisconsin has been predicted to challenge OSU for the conference crown. This year is no different as they get the fortune of hosting the Buckeyes at Camp Randall. The only other real challenge will be a road trip to Iowa.
Michigan State (9-3, 5-3) I think Michigan State will show the biggest improvement in the conference this season. After finishing in the dead center of the conference last season I predict the Spartans to finish near the top of the Big Ten in 2010. MSU gets the fortune of hosting Wisconsin but will face some tough road tests against Iowa and Penn State.
Penn State (9-3, 6-2) Even at 180 years old Joe Pa still knows how to draw up the X’s and O’s. Last year his Nittany Lions pulled off 11 wins and despite losing QB Daryll Clark this offense will still be able to put up points in 2010. Evan Royster is one of the best backs in the nation and he’s very capable of carrying this team on his back. I don’t think this team will repeat with 11 wins but 9-3 isn’t terrible.
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