Matt McMaster’s Big Ten football power rankings highlight the shifts in team performances as Week 12 draws to a close. The rankings reveal a wide array of fortunes among the conference’s teams, with some struggling to find their footing while others have begun to establish themselves as legitimate contenders.
Purdue remains rooted at the bottom of the rankings. The Boilermakers have struggled mightily this season, winning just one game. Their recent loss to Penn State only emphasized their positioning as one of the worst teams in the conference.
Maryland finds itself just above Purdue after a disheartening defeat against Rutgers. The Terrapins’ inconsistency raises questions about their competitiveness as the season winds down. Northwestern and Michigan State follow closely, with both teams battling fluctuation in performance.
Nebraska’s plummet continues after starting the season with promise. The Cornhuskers have lost four straight games, jeopardizing their chances for a bowl appearance. Their woeful trend mirrors UCLA’s recent struggles, as the Bruins fell short against Washington, halting their late-season momentum.
USC had a much-needed win against Nebraska, providing a glimpse of potential revival. The Trojans showcased a stronger ground game, raising hopes for their offensive capabilities. Meanwhile, Washington gained a much-needed victory against UCLA, ensuring their postseason aspirations remain intact.
Michigan continues to hover near the middle of the rankings after a bye week. Rutgers has surged back into contention, showcasing resilience by rebounding from an early season slump to put together a string of wins.
Iowa’s bye week did not prevent them from slipping in the rankings, primarily due to the injury of starting quarterback Brendan Sullivan. The Hawkeyes are now faced with finding a viable alternative under center.
Wisconsin remains a challenging team, yet they allowed a critical win to slip away, costing their offensive coordinator his job. Minnesota stands resilient, albeit with modest expectations after a bye week.
Illinois has emerged as a solid team, noted for a balanced approach to both offense and defense. Their recent victory highlights their potential as a formidable opponent, even if they lack standout stars.
At the top of the rankings, Penn State continues its dominance, but a compelling victory over quality opponents remains elusive. Indiana stands undefeated and is poised for a crucial matchup against Ohio State, marking a pivotal moment in their season.
Ohio State maintains its status amid strong competition, preparing for an upcoming clash that could define their season. The Buckeyes have shown consistency but need to elevate against top-tier opponents.
Oregon continues to lead the pack, solidifying its position with a narrow win against Wisconsin. The Ducks, while not scoring a blowout, displayed resilience necessary for a championship run. Their performance sets them up favorably for the upcoming championship game.
As the season approaches its climax, every game carries significant weight. Teams will be eager to either maintain momentum or reverse their fortunes heading into the final weeks.
