BEST OF THE REST

This weekend’s other top conference games (all times EDT)

PURDUE (4-3, 3-1) AT MICHIGAN STATE (4-3, 2-2) When: Noon Saturday Where: Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, Mich.

TV: ESPN

Notes: Michigan State leads the series 35-28-3, and the Spartans have won the past seven meetings since 2007. Michigan State lost to rival Michigan last week and also lost top receiver Felton Davis to a torn Achilles injury. Also, quarterback Brian Lewerke is dealing with a sore right shoulder.

NO. 20 WISCONSIN (5-2, 3-1) AT NORTHWESTERN (4-3, 4-1) When: Noon Saturday

Where: Ryan Field, Evanston, Ill. TV: Fox

Notes: Wisconsin leads the series 59-35-5 and has won the past two meetings. Badgers quarterback Alex Hornibrook rebounded from an abysmal performance against Michigan to pass to for 188 yards and three TDs in a win over Illinois. The Wildcats knocked off Michigan State two weeks ago but narrowly edged Rutgers 18-15 last week.

ILLINOIS (3-4, 1-3) AT MARYLAND (4-3, 2-2) When: 3:30 p.m. Saturday Where: Maryland Stadium, College Park, Md.

TV: BTN

Notes: Illinois and Maryland enter the game tied for second nationally in interceptions with 13, and Illinois has a plus-5 turnover margin. The Illini, however, has allowed 17 touchdown passes while throwing only five. The Terrapins rank 18th in total defense.