What we learned from each Big Ten team in Week 13
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16 Big Ten teams were in action on Saturday. We learned at least something from all of them, as always, though some had more impressive displays than others. We're here with one quick takeaway from each Big Ten team that played this weekend.
1. Ohio State is going to the College Football Playoff
An 11-0 start is enough to consider these Buckeyes a lock. Even if they manage to lose two more games, 11-2 is enough for a Playoff berth. Buckeye fans can start preparing.
2. Rutgers couldn't do anything
I have no further comments on this game. Rutgers was demolished by a far superior team.
3-4. Oregon is still elite; USC is just short
The Ducks made us forget about them a bit during the season, but they're not one win away from returning to the Playoff. USC had its chances, but just like in the Notre Dame game the Trojans couldn't quite keep up. That loss to Illinois is the real reason they're not in the Playoff, though.
5-6. Michigan keeps its hopes alive while Maryland limps home
The Wolverines played their best game of the season on Saturday. It's a good sign for them as they prepare for a virtual play-in game for the Playoff when Ohio State comes to town. Maryland, meanwhile, seems to be collapsing to end the season after the inability to finish games just added up too much.
7. Luke Fickell is building something in Wisconsin
Great teams constantly improve throughout the season. What's most impressive about this Wisconsin team is that it has continuously improved despite losing game after game. Going 4-7 (with a winnable rivalry game this week) against the toughest schedule in the country isn't terrible. This team looks primed for a step forward next season.
8. Illinois got out-Bielema'd
It's still a good season for the Illini, but they got manhandled by a more physical team. There's a lesson in that moving forward.
9-10. Northwestern wins a wild one over an overperforming Minnesota team
I've said it before, but Minnesota's record is far better than its talent should indicate. P.J. Fleck just finds ways to coax out wins. However, so does David Braun. This team has played above its talent level all year, and it will be rewarded with a bowl game.
11. Iowa has an offense when it wants it
What the Hawkeyes did in desperation circumstances in the fourth quarter should make everyone wonder why the offense can't be that explosive all game, every game. If Iowa ever figures that out, this program will go places, and fast.
12. Michigan State has a bit of fight left
The Spartans looked like they were giving up on the season last week, but they regrouped enough to make it to this heartbreaker. if they play like this again next week, they should have a real chance to beat Maryland.
13. What a wasted season from Penn State
The Nittany Lions reminded us that they're one of the most talented teams in the country. They let the season collapse after losing a heartbreaker to Oregon, but it didn't have to be that way. This team could be 10-2 and cruising to a Playoff berth with just a few better decisions along the way. James Franklin should rue this season, as should the fans.
14. Nebraska was overwhelmed
The Cornhuskers looked like they were fighting to be a top team at times this season. Then one game against an in-form Penn State team reminded us just how far they really have to go.
15-16. Washington is still really good while UCLA reverts to its old self
The Bruins got three wins out of the excitement of upsetting Penn State. They've fallen back to earth now, and will need to fix a lot before next season. Washington, meanwhile, will rue a close loss to Wisconsin while the Huskies prepare to wreck rival Oregon's Playoff hopes.
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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: What we learned from each Big Ten team in Week 13
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