Things to Watch

Big Ten Championship Game

Ohio State controls its own destiny with a one game lead over Michigan State in the Big Ten East. Minnesota is in a tie for first place in the Big Ten West with Nebraska and Wisconsin, who are both playing each other this weekend.

College Football Playoffs

It is a bit premature to discuss the playoffs, but don't tell that to the talking heads on the sports networks. Ohio State has three regular season games, and most likely one additional game with the conference championship game on December 6. Ohio State moved up to 8th in the CFP rankings released Tuesday night. The Buckeyes are behind three teams which also have one loss. Ohio State has 3-4 games in which to gain ground in the rankings, and Ohio State can impress voters with a victory over ranked Minnesota this weekend. It would further help Ohio State if its opponents continue to win games, most notably Minnesota and Michigan State. All three of the leaders in the Big Ten West are ranked in the CFP rankings, and a Big Ten Championship matchup with a one-loss Nebraska would be the best scenario for Ohio State. Big 12 teams will not have the benefit of a conference championship game. The SEC will continue to knock its own teams out of the playoff picture during the season and in the conference championship game. As things currently stand I predict one team from the ACC (Florida St.), Pac-12, SEC, and B1G being selected for the playoffs. If the B1G does not have a one-loss team available, look for the Big 12 to take one spot. If Florida State stumbles then the SEC or Pac-12 will take a second spot.