Recent wins by the Huskers might not be the kind of memorable games you’d revisit on a future version of video-sharing platforms like YouTube. Nonetheless, these victories will be recorded as successes in future sports guides.
To be frank, what I find unattractive are those chilly Novembers we’ve had in the past, discussing Nebraska’s coaching situation and their absence from bowl game discussions. Those were Novembers where Nebraska wasn’t even in the conversation for top standings in their division early in the month. Despite the recent Husker wins not being classic games, they contribute to a more positive outlook.
14. INDIANA (2-6, 0-5)
Last game: They tied with the Nittany Lions until Penn State made a long touchdown pass with just two minutes remaining. Can they challenge a wounded Badgers team this week?
13. MICHIGAN STATE (2-6, 0-5)
Last game: They head into the game against the Huskers with a six-game losing streak, but it’s not a significant gap between teams ranked 4 through 14 on this list.
12. PURDUE (2-6, 1-4)
Last game: They suffered a loss to the Huskers, and it’s evident that the Husker defense would have shut them out if not for turnovers.
11. MARYLAND (5-3, 2-3)
Last game: They have a tough November with opponents like Penn State, Nebraska, Michigan, and Rutgers, all of which have winning records. Despite their ranking, the teams above them defeated Maryland.
10. ILLINOIS (3-5, 1-4)
Last game: A rule where players are suspended for the first half due to a targeting call from the previous game seems senseless, especially for hits that weren’t intentional.
9. NORTHWESTERN (4-4, 2-3)
Last game: Northwestern’s success this season has been a surprise, and a strong November could make a case for retaining the coach.
8. WISCONSIN (5-3, 3-2)
Last game: The question revolves around the health of Braelon Allen after a sprained ankle. The Badgers, like the Huskers and Hawkeyes, have a strong defense but question marks about their offense.
7. NEBRASKA (5-3, 3-2)
Last game: After an undefeated October, the Huskers have shown promise, and they are favored against Michigan State.
6. IOWA (6-2, 3-2)
Last game: It would be interesting to see if the offense improves after the announcement that offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz won’t return. If it explodes for points, the majority might still come from defense and special teams.
5. MINNESOTA (5-3, 3-2)
Last game: The Gophers have the head-to-head advantage over Nebraska and Iowa for now, positioning them higher in the rankings.
4. RUTGERS (6-2, 3-2)
Last game: The Scarlet Knights have a challenging November schedule, including games against Ohio State, Iowa, and Penn State. It’s commendable that they secured a bowl eligibility in October.
3. PENN STATE (7-1, 4-1)
Last game: After a tough loss to Ohio State, the Nittany Lions need a strong performance in a rivalry game against Maryland.
2. OHIO STATE (8-0, 5-0)
Last game: The Buckeyes have shown strong defensive performances and secured the No. 1 ranking in the initial College Football Playoff poll.
1 MICHIGAN (8-0, 5-0)
Last game: Michigan has an outstanding defense, allowing just 5.9 points per game, an impressive feat no matter the opponent.