POWER RANKINGS

Breaking down the Big Ten

1. Michigan (10-1):

UM avoided a hiccup against Indiana, but the Wolverines caused their fans indigestion just the same.

2. Ohio State (10-1):

First-world football problem: Buckeyes have few believers despite 688 yards offense vs. Maryland.

3. Northwestern (7-4):

The gap between Michigan/OSU and the Wildcats is wide, but only NU has locked up its division.

4. Penn State (8-3):

Trace McSorley became PSU’s all-time wins leader (30) as a starting QB. Getting 31 may prove challenging.

5. Wisconsin (7-4):

Three overtimes later and the Badgers proved at least one thing: they know how to outlast Purdue.

6. Iowa (7-4):

After three straight losses, the Hawkeyes took out their frustrations on Illinois to the cathartic tune of 63-0.

7. Maryland (5-6):

Interim coach Matt Canada went for the two-point gut punch against OSU. It was gutsy but lacked punch.

8. Nebraska (4-7):

The Huskers beat Michigan State 9-6. Who knew Scott Frost could coach baseball as well as football?

9. Indiana (5-6):

The Hoosiers take on Purdue in the Trying To Become BowlEligible Bowl. Play at home helps IU’s chances.

10. Michigan State (6-5):

At this very moment, Mark Dantonio is out looking for Sparty’s lost offense. It may take a while.

11. Minnesota (5-6):

In what has turned out to be an average (at best) Big Ten, the up-and-down Gophers represent the median.

12. Purdue (5-6):

Or is it Purdon’t? The Boilermakers are close to finishing how they started, with three straight losses.

13. Illinois (4-7):

In their last three losses, the Illini have allowed 63, 54 and 63 points. That’s not good, right?

14. Rutgers (1-10):

Next up is offensively challenged Michigan State. Too bad Rutgers also is challenged on offense — and defense.