THE LOCALS
NORTHERN ILLINOIS AT CENTRAL MICHIGAN The facts: 11 a.m., CBSSN, 560-AM.
The records: NIU 3-5, 2-2 MAC;
CMU 5-4, 3-2.
The storyline: It’s a bit strange to say, but the Huskies are still alive in the hunt for the West division title. This is another game they can win, too, as they attempt to claw their way to a respectable season. Will Ross Bowers play? NIU’s quarterback was in concussion protocol earlier in the week. It’s a different, more run-oriented offense when backup Marcus Childers is in there. Watch out for Chips receiver Kalil Pimpleton
The line: Huskies by 1.
Greenberg’s pick: CMU, 28-23.
VIRGINIA TECH AT NO. 16 NOTRE DAME The facts: 1:30 p.m., Ch. 5, 1000-AM.
The records: Virginia Tech 5-2, 2-2 ACC; Notre Dame 5-2.
The storyline: The Hokies have won three straight, finding a pretty good offense in the process. They’re a worthy opponent, but a bigger issue is how motivated — how angry — their opponents will be. The Irish have two choices after an embarrassing performance at Michigan that knocked them out of the playoff picture: quit or dig in. The latter is, mind you, easier said than done.
The line: Irish by 17½.
Greenberg’s pick: Notre Dame, 35-21.
RUTGERS AT ILLINOIS
The facts: 2:30 p.m., BTN, 890-AM.
The records: Rutgers 2-6, 0-5 Big Ten; Illinois 4-4, 2-3.
The storyline: The Illini find themselves at the intersection of overachievement and expectations, a strange and undoubtedly exciting place to be. They go for three in a row against the Scarlet Knights, who aren’t as good as Purdue, let alone Wisconsin. When Lovie Smith’s gang was 0-3 in the Big Ten, who would’ve believed they’d soon be favored by three touchdowns?
The line: Illini by 20½.
Greenberg’s pick: Illinois, 27-14.
NORTHWESTERN AT INDIANA
The facts: 6 p.m., FS1, 720-AM.
The records: Northwestern 1-6, 0-5 Big Ten; Indiana 6-2, 3-2.
The storyline: What’s left for the Wildcats to play for? More than anything else, they need something positive to take with them into the offseason. The last five games, starting with this one, are winnable, at least in theory. Is it possible the Hoosiers — coming off an emotional victory at Nebraska that made them bowl-eligible — will let their guards down in this one?
The line: Hoosiers by 11½.
Greenberg’s pick: Indiana, 24-16.