Michigan vs. Ohio State headlines Big Ten slate

Here’s what to watch in the Big Ten this week:

Best game No. 4 Michigan at No. 10 Ohio State

The signs point to a breakthrough for Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines (10-1, 8-0 Big Ten, No. 4 CFP). Michigan has lost six straight and 13 of the past 14 meetings but is a four-point road favorite Nov. 24. Win here, and again next week over Northwestern in the Big Ten championship game, and the Wolverines should be playoff-bound. That’s easier said than done. This is, after all, “The Game.” Ohio State (10-1, 7-1, No. 10 CFP) has not looked good the second half of the season but, though it would need some help, still has viable playoff hopes if it can beat Michigan and win the Big Ten.

Best matchup Nebraska offense vs. Iowa defense

The Huskers’ offense had over 450 total yards in seven straight games before being slowed down in the snow and cold in a win over Michigan State last week. Rain and temperatures in the 40s are forecast Friday in Iowa City. Adrian Martinez is coach in the NFL, but his Illinois defenses have gotten worse each of his three seasons. The Illini national rankings have gone from 61st to 86th to 128th. This year’s unit is allowing 520 yards per game . ... Michigan State has had four starting punters this season and is the only school in the nation to have five players punt . ... If Rutgers loses to MSU, it will mark the fourth time since 1997 the Scarlet Knights have finished with a win total of one or zero.

Long shot

Maryland is a 13 ½ point underdog at Penn State

The Terrapins (5-6, 3-5) need one win to get bowl eligible, which would be quite an accomplishment in a tumultuous season. The question is whether the Terps have much left in the tank after coming up just short last week in the 52-51 overtime loss to Ohio State. Penn State (83, 5-3) has beaten Maryland sounded two straight years. If Terps RB Anthony McFarland keeps playing like he has lately — 508 yards the last two games — this could get interesting.

Player to watch

Wisconsin RB Jonathan Taylor. The national rushing leader needs 131 yards against Minnesota to hit 2,000 for the season after falling 23 yards short last season.