ESPN College Football

Wisconsin has found its replacement for Paul Chryst, and he's a familiar name for those who follow football in the Midwest.

Matt Canada is joining Wisconsin as offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach after spending the 2011 season in the same capacity at Northern Illinois. Canada, who worked under former Wisconsin assistant Dave Doeren at NIU, returns to the Big Ten after serving as offensive coordinator at Indiana, his alma mater, from 2007-10.

The interesting thing about the hire is that while Canada has run spread offenses in recent years, he'll lead a pro-style offense with the Badgers. Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema made it clear in the release announcing Canada's hiring, saying, "I know he is very excited about running a pro-style offense and handling a game the way we typically have at Wisconsin."

Canada has run a pro-style offense before, during a previous stint at Northern Illinois' offensive coordinator in 2003. That year, the Huskies ranked 26th nationally in scoring offense (32.2 ppg) but just 60th in total offense (378.9 ypg). NIU put up big numbers under Canada this past season, finishing 11th nationally in total offense and 12th in both scoring and rushing offense. NIU and Wisconsin were two of just five FBS teams to average at least 230 yards both rushing and passing in 2011.

Canada inherited an excellent quarterback in Chandler Harnish at NIU and helped take the unit to the next level, but he'll be facing some different challenges with Wisconsin.

"In the system we ran, I thought he was as good as they get," Doeren told ESPN.com on Tuesday. "We ran as many plays as we humanly could in a game out of as many personnel groups as we could. We were nothing like [Wisconsin], other than we ran zone and power like them. We had a mobile quarterback that we used in the run game, and he was our leading rusher, so we had a lot different system."

It's interesting that Bielema has hired two assistants -- Canada and receivers coach Zach Azzanni -- with backgrounds in the spread offense. But he says in the release that his offensive staff will "come from different directions to come together to play football the way Wisconsin has traditionally played."

Doeren is confident Canada can make the necessary adjustments.

"He's extremely intelligent," Doeren said. "Obviously, Bret wanted him to do whatever he thinks they're supposed to do, so that's what he's going to have to prove to everybody, obviously. I know he's extremely excited about that challenge. He's really competitive."

In 2007, Canada's first season as Indiana's offensive coordinator, the Hoosiers scored a team-record 412 points. But the offense backslid a bit during his final three seasons, and some Indiana fans voiced their displeasure about Canada.

He inherits a Wisconsin offense coming off of two record-setting seasons. The Badgers lose All-Big Ten quarterback Russell Wilson, All-America center Peter Konz and top wide receiver Nick Toon. Heisman Trophy finalist Montee Ball returns at running back along with other weapons like receiver Jared Abbrederis and tight end Jacob Pedersen, but the quarterback position will be Canada's biggest priority from now until Sept. 1.

Bielema still has two offensive staff vacancies (line, tight ends) to fill and one on the defensive side (linebackers).

It's time to nitpick the Week 3 picks.

Do I have to? Yes, Adam, you have to. You're terrible and you can't hide from it. Now stop talking to yourself on the blog.

OK, here's the deal. After three years of fairly strong predictions, I've fallen apart this season. An 8-4 mark in Week 3 is just the latest setback. I'm below 70 percent in picking winners for the first time ... maybe ever.

Mr. Bennett, meanwhile, continues to extend his lead in the standings, although he shouldn't feel too giddy about a 9-3 mark.

Let's check the standings:

WEEK 3

Adam Rittenberg: 8-4

Brian Bennett: 9-3

SEASON

Rittenberg: 25-11 (.694)

Bennett: 28-8 (.778)

Now let's look back on the predictions:

Eastern Michigan at Michigan

• Bennett's pick: Michigan 42, Eastern Michigan 10
• Rittenberg's pick: Michigan 36, Eastern Michigan 14
• Actual score: Michigan 31, Eastern Michigan 3
• 20-20 hindsight: Not a bad start for us, and Bennett was right about Eastern Michigan having no answer for Denard Robinson, at least on the ground (198 rush yards, 3 touchdowns). My prediction of offense coordinator Al Borges sticking to his system more didn't pan out, as Michigan looks like a spread team once again.

Penn State at Temple

• Bennett's pick: Penn State 21, Temple 17
• Rittenberg's pick: Penn State 23, Temple 16
• Actual score: Penn State 14, Temple 10
• 20-20 hindsight: Two pretty solid score predictions, and both of us expressed concerns about Penn State's offense, which struggled yet again. RB Silas Redd came through for me with a rushing touchdown. Wide receiver Derek Moye made Bennett look wise with a big day catching the ball, although he didn't score.

Pitt at Iowa

• Bennett's pick: Iowa 28, Pitt 19
• Rittenberg's pick: Iowa 27, Pitt 20
• Actual score: Iowa 31, Pitt 27
• 20-20 hindsight: The score predictions aren't far off, but neither of us saw Iowa needing to rally from 17 points down in the fourth quarter to complete the biggest comeback in team history. I correctly predicted Pitt to take an early lead, but I wasn't thinking 24-3. Iowa quarterback James Vandenberg came of age in the fourth quarter.

Southeast Missouri State at Purdue

• Bennett's pick: Purdue 35, SEMO 10
• Rittenberg's pick: Purdue 34, SEMO 17
• Actual score: Purdue 59, SEMO 0
• 20-20 hindsight: Neither of us saw another nailbiter for the Boilers, but we also underestimated the offense against an FCS foe. Purdue racked up 33 first downs and 627 offensive yards as quarterbacks Caleb TerBush and Robert Marve carved up Southeast Missouri State. I correctly predicted a big day for the Boiler run game, which piled up 393 yards and seven touchdowns.

South Carolina State at Indiana

• Bennett's pick: Indiana 41, South Carolina State 17
• Rittenberg's pick: Indiana 30, South Carolina State 17
• Actual score: Indiana 38, South Carolina State 21
• 20-20 hindsight: Some decent score predictions here, especially Bennett's, as Indiana recorded its first win. I correctly predicted Indiana's run game would come to life a bit, but it was freshman D'Angelo Roberts who provided the spark with 102 rush yards and a touchdown.

Michigan State at Notre Dame

• Bennett's pick: Michigan State 31, Notre Dame 28
• Rittenberg's pick: Michigan State 27, Notre Dame 24
• Actual score: Notre Dame 31, Michigan State 13
• 20-20 hindsight: We both whiffed here, as Michigan State fell behind early and couldn't claw back. The close game we both envisioned never materialized as Notre Dame made the big plays and totally shut down the Spartans' rushing attack.

Miami (Ohio) at Minnesota

• Bennett's pick: Minnesota 21, Miami 20
• Rittenberg's pick: Miami 27, Minnesota 21
• Actual score: Minnesota 29, Miami 23
• 20-20 hindsight: Of course, Bennett looks like the genius as Minnesota seemed to elevate its play for coach Jerry Kill, who returned to the sideline only a week after suffering a seizure. As Bennett predicted, there was some drama at the end, but Minnesota's shaky secondary made enough plays to win.

Washington at Nebraska

• Bennett's pick: Nebraska 31, Washington 14
• Rittenberg's pick: Nebraska 28, Washington 16
• Actual score: Nebraska 51, Washington 38
• 20-20 hindsight: Both of us once again gave too much credit to Nebraska's defense, which now ranks 66th nationally in points allowed (24.7 ppg). At least Bennett predicted another big day for his fantasy team star Taylor Martinez, who recorded three touchdowns (2 pass, 1 rush).

Northwestern at Army

• Bennett's pick: Northwestern 24, Army 20
• Rittenberg's pick: Northwestern 27, Army 21
• Actual score: Army 21, Northwestern 14
• 20-20 hindsight: We both predicted a close game and I nailed Army's score, but we both expected much more from quarteback Kain Colter and the Northwestern offense. As I thought, Northwestern showed more willingness to pass the ball, but Colter didn't execute like he needed to, and neither did the Wildcats' defensive line against Army's triple-option.

Wisconsin vs. Northern Illinois (at Chicago)

• Bennett's pick: Wisconsin 38, Northern Illinois 24
• Rittenberg's pick: Wisconsin 45, Northern Illinois 21
• Actual score: Wisconsin 49, Northern Illinois 7
• 20-20 hindsight: We both put too much stock in former Badgers assistant Dave Doeren and Northern Illinois' high-powered offense led by quarterback Chandler Harnish. The Wisconsin defense buckled down again, surrendering only 11 first downs. Bennett went out on a limb with his Russell Wilson prediction, as the Wisconsin quarterback continued to sizzle (347 pass yards, 3 touchdowns).

Arizona State at Illinois

• Bennett's pick: Arizona State 51, Illinois 48
• Rittenberg's pick: Illinois 33, Arizona State 31
• Actual score: Illinois 17, Arizona State 14
• 20-20 hindsight: Both of us forecast a close game, but neither of us saw a defensive struggle between the Fighting Illini and Sun Devils. Illinois' Nathan Scheelhaase ended up providing the game-winning score, as I predicted, but it was on a pass to A.J. Jenkins, not a run.

Ohio State at Miami

• Bennett's pick: Miami 21, Ohio State 16
• Rittenberg's pick: Ohio State 20, Miami 17
• Actual score: Miami 24, Ohio State 6
• 20-20 hindsight: We both thought it would be a difficult night for the Buckeyes offense, but neither of us saw Ohio State recording only 35 pass yards on 4 of 18 attempts. Running back Jordan Hall (14 carries, 87 yards) had a nice performance in his season debut, as I predicted, but it wasn't nearly enough. Bennett correctly picked the Canes.

Before we get to pad our stats (hopefully) in Week 4, it's time to forecast an intriguing slate of Week 3 games.

Thus far, neither of us has had anything resembling perfection. Will it change this week?

Let's get to the picking ...

EASTERN MICHIGAN at MICHIGAN

Brian Bennett: Michigan's biggest problem will be adjusting to the weirdness of playing during the day. Other than that, former Wolverines defensive coordinator Ron English's team has no answer for Denard Robinson. ... Michigan 42, Eastern Michigan 10

Adam Rittenberg: I see the Wolverines starting off a bit slowly against the 2-0 Eagles, but Robinson and the running backs will get going in this one and coordinator Al Borges can stick to his system more. Don't see Brady Hoke running up the score on English and Mike Hart. ... Michigan 36, Eastern Michigan 14

PENN STATE at TEMPLE

Adam Rittenberg: Penn State's ongoing indecision at quarterback concerns me, especially against a Temple defense playing well. Like last year's game, this contest will be low scoring but Silas Redd and Brandon Beachum come up big in the second half with touchdowns. ... Penn State 23, Temple 16

Brian Bennett: I agree Temple will keep it close behind the running of Bernard Pierce at home. Penn State does just enough to win on a late TD pass to Derek Moye -- just don't ask me who throws it. ... Penn State 21, Temple 17

PITTSBURGH at IOWA

Brian Bennett: I covered Pitt closely the past three seasons and have no confidence in the Panthers to win a tough road game, especially the way quarterback Tino Sunseri has played. Iowa's defense rebounds after a rough day in Ames and grounds the High Octane. ... Iowa 28, Pitt 19

Adam Rittenberg: No love for the Big East? I hereby revoke your Primanti Bros. privileges. Pitt takes an early lead against a reeling Hawkeyes defense, but Iowa rallies in the second half behind running back Marcus Coker (last chance, Marcus). ... Iowa 27, Pitt 20

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE at PURDUE

Adam Rittenberg: The heat is rising on coach Danny Hope, but Purdue should get through the fourth quarter without tension for the first time this year. Both Caleb TerBush and Robert Marve play at quarterback, but Purdue's run game makes the big difference in this one. ... Purdue 34, SE Missouri State 17

Brian Bennett: Just what Purdue needs after two shaky performances: a highly beatable FCS team. No field goal blocks needed this time. ... Purdue 35, SE Missouri State 10

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE at INDIANA

Brian Bennett: And just what Indiana needs, too. Finally a big offensive performance for Kevin Wilson's club against an overmatched FCS squad. ... Indiana 41, SCSU 17

Adam Rittenberg: Wilson can be as reckless as he wants to with big decisions and still get his first win as IU's coach. Matt Perez and the Hoosiers' run game show some signs of life for the first time this season. ... Indiana 30, SCSU 17

NO. 15 MICHIGAN STATE at NOTRE DAME

Adam Rittenberg: Las Vegas isn't giving Michigan State any respect, and the Notre-Dame-is-actually-good-honest-to-God rhetoric is getting tiresome. The Spartans typically play well in South Bend and win another close one against a desperate Irish team that doesn't know how to close. ... Michigan State 27, Notre Dame 24

Brian Bennett: How can anyone pick Notre Dame at this point? I wouldn't pick the Irish in an intrasquad scrimmage. The Spartans get a big step up in competition, but Kirk Cousins leads them to the first of what they hope are many road wins. ... Michigan State 31, Notre Dame 28

MIAMI (OHIO) at MINNESOTA

Brian Bennett: A tough game to predict, not knowing how the players will respond to the Jerry Kill situation. I'm thinking Kill returns to the sidelines and they play inspired to give their coach a dramatic first victory with the Gophers. ... Minnesota 21, Miami 20

Adam Rittenberg: I thought Minnesota would lose this game before the season, and then felt differently after the Gophers' gutsy performance at USC. But last week's clunker against New Mexico State soured me on Minnesota, and Miami has had two weeks to prepare. ... Miami 27, Minnesota 21

WASHINGTON at NO. 11 NEBRASKA

Adam Rittenberg: After a week of enduring Bo Pelini's wrath, the Blackshirts respond against young quarterback Keith Price as Nebraska pulls ahead in the fourth quarter. ... Nebraska 28, Washington 16

Brian Bennett: The defense simply has to get better, and I think it will slow down Washington's Chris Polk. Taylor Martinez atones for the bowl game as Huskers-Huskies III goes the home team's way. ... Nebraska 31, Washington 14

NORTHWESTERN at ARMY

Brian Bennett: If Dan Persa doesn't play, will either team pass the ball more than five times? Army's unique style will give the Wildcats fits, but they pull it out in the end. ... Northwestern 24, Army 20

Adam Rittenberg: Northwestern has to show more willingness to throw the ball with Kain Colter, as the Wildcats boast great weapons at receiver and tight end and Army struggles against the pass. Coordinator Mick McCall opens up the offense and the Wildcats' defensive line plays well enough for a win. ... Northwestern 27, Army 21

NO. 7 Wisconsin vs. NORTHERN ILLINOIS (at Chicago)

Adam Rittenberg: There will be no shutout this week as Northern Illinois' Chandler Harnish makes some plays against Wisconsin. While former Badgers defensive coordinator Dave Doeren will improve the Huskies' defense eventually, NIU's youth and inability to stop the run proves costly against Montee Ball and James White. ... Wisconsin 45, Northern Illinois 31

Brian Bennett: Doeren's knowledge of the personnel makes this one interesting, and Northern Illinois is better offensively than Oregon State. Russell Wilson is the difference as Doeren sells out against the run. ... Wisconsin 38, Northern Illinois 24

NO. 22 ARIZONA STATE at ILLINOIS

Brian Bennett: Illinois is out to prove itself, but Arizona State is a little more battle tested after beating Missouri last week. Brock Osweiler throws the game-winning pass in overtime of a wild shootout. ... Arizona State 51, Illinois 48

Adam Rittenberg: This is the type of game both of these programs tend to lose. But I'm buying into Illinois and think the Illini rise to the occasion and notch a statement win at home. Vontaze Burfict introduces himself to Nathan Scheelhaase a few times, but Scheelhaase scores a touchdown in the final minute for the game winner. ... Illinois 33, Arizona State 31

NO. 17 OHIO STATE at MIAMI

Adam Rittenberg: This will be a slog for the Buckeyes, who remain shorthanded at key positions. Both Ohio State quarterbacks play and Jordan Hall helps in his return, but the main reason I'm picking the Buckeyes is because I simply don't trust Jacory Harris to limit mistakes. Ohio State 20, Miami 17

Brian Bennett: I'd rather purchase snake oil in bulk from a traveling salesman than pin my hopes on Harris. And yet ... I just don't think Ohio State can make enough explosive plays on offense after that Toledo showing. The Fightin' Shapiros pull the upset. ... Miami 21, Ohio State 16

SEASON RECORDS

Bennett: 19-5 (.792)

Rittenberg: 17-7 (.708)

A potential reunion with the Wisconsin Badgers crossed Dave Doeren's mind even before he became Northern Illinois' coach.

As he mulled NIU's offer in December, Doeren, then the Badgers' defensive coordinator, called his boss and friend, Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema.

"Bret and I were talking about whether I should or shouldn't take it, the pros and cons, this and that," Doeren recalled. "And I started laughing. I said, 'One of the deals is I've got to play two schools where I've worked, Kansas and Wisconsin. That sucks.' That's the negative to it when you look at being friends."

Bielema knew it would "put an interesting spin on everything."

"I still called the AD, did everything I could to help him get that job," he said. "It was something Dave had earned."

The positives of the NIU job won out, and Doeren accepted. After facing Kansas last week, he'll lead his Huskies team against Bielema and the seventh-ranked Badgers on Saturday afternoon at Chicago's Soldier Field.

Doeren's familiarity with Wisconsin's players and coaches could help Northern Illinois as it prepares for the game. Then again, the Badgers aren't known for tricky schemes. They do what they've always done, and they do it well.

"They're playing so well right now, I don't know if being there [previously] really helps," Doeren said. "They're a really talented football team. Obviously, I have some insight into their players, so that does help, but schematically, whether you were there or not, when you play Wisconsin, you're going to know what they're going to be in.

"You've just got to be able to stop it, and they take pride in that."

While Doeren saw Wisconsin's offense every day in practice the past few years, he's not as familiar with the man calling signals for the Badgers. Quarterback Russell Wilson, who transferred from NC State this summer, has been brilliant in his first two games for Wisconsin, ranking second nationally in passer rating (237.6) and completing 27 of 34 attempts (79.4 percent).

Doeren says Wilson is "like having Tolzien who can run," referring to former Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien, who completed 72.9 percent of his passes in 2010 but wasn't known for his foot speed.

"You've got that extremely confident, intelligent leader that knows how to manage the game," Doeren said, "but now when things break down, he can run for touchdowns. ... The athletic dimension he brings when things break down is something they haven't had since Tyler Donovan."

Wisconsin's ground game remains its M.O., and Northern Illinois' young defense ranks near the bottom of the FBS against the run, allowing 556 rush yards and six touchdowns in its first two games against Army and Kansas. If the Huskies can't stop Wisconsin's run attack Saturday, they'll have "no chance," Doeren said.

What gives NIU hope is an explosive offense led by senior quarterback Chandler Harnish. The Huskies have scored 91 points in their first two games and Harnish ranks among the top 10 nationally in both passer rating (197.96) and total offense (339.5 ypg).

Although Wisconsin comes off of a shutout against Oregon State, it lost starting cornerback Devin Smith to a season-ending foot injury. The Badgers lack depth at corner and could be vulnerable against the pass.

"Our skill is very good, our quarterback is playing well, tailbacks are all running hard when they're in there and we have a veteran O-line," Doeren said. "To me, that is where we match up well."

Doeren recruited Badgers defenders like safety Aaron Henry and linebacker Kevin Claxton. He considers Bielema and co-defensive coordinators Chris Ash and Charlie Partridge among his best friends.

"It's part of the deal," Doeren said. "You're going to run into guys that you're friends with and coach against them. You recruit against your friends all the time.

"It's not the most fun thing to do, but it's something you do quite a bit."

Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema expects to have a more definitive update on starting cornerback Devin Smith by the end of the day.

But it doesn't look good.

Smith suffered a left foot injury in Saturday's win against Oregon State. He sustained the injury in the first quarter and left the field on crutches with his foot wrapped.

Bielema said Smith definitely will miss this week's game against Northern Illinois. But he also mentioned the possibility of Smith returning for a fifth year if he misses the season.

Bottom line: don't expect to see Smith for a while.

Wisconsin's cornerback depth isn't great, and the Badgers need good play and sustained health from junior Marcus Cromartie, who will take Smith's spot on the field. Cromartie has displayed good skills but has had some trouble staying healthy early in his career.

After Cromartie, Wisconsin lists freshmen Peniel Jean and Darius Hillary. So losing Smith for an extended period could sting.

Keep an eye on Cromartie this week against Northern Illinois, which boasts an excellent quarterback in Chandler Harnish and has scored 91 points in its first two games. Wisconsin's defense will be tested at Soldier Field.

Let's continue the breakdown of each Big Ten team's 2011 schedule with the Wisconsin Badgers.

Nonconference opponents (with 2010 records)

Sept. 1: UNLV (2-11)
Sept. 10: Oregon State (5-7)
Sept. 17: vs. Northern Illinois (11-3)
Sept. 24: South Dakota (4-7)

Leaders division games

Oct. 15: Indiana
Oct. 29: at Ohio State
Nov. 5: Purdue
Nov. 19: at Illinois
Nov. 26: Penn State

Crossover games

Oct. 1: Nebraska
Oct. 22: at Michigan State
Nov. 12: at Minnesota (protected)

No plays

Iowa
Michigan
Northwestern

Gut-check game: At Michigan State. Although the Nebraska game will provide Wisconsin with a good barometer, the Badgers must show they can win tough games on the road. Wisconsin's only regular-season loss in 2010 came at Spartan Stadium, and this contest provides the first true road test for new starting quarterback Jon Budmayr. A trip to Ohio State looms the next week, so Wisconsin needs to end its recent struggles in East Lansing.

Trap game: Purdue. This falls between Wisconsin's showdown against Ohio State and its Nov. 12 rivalry matchup on the road against Minnesota. The Badgers eviscerated Purdue 37-0 the last time the teams met in Madison. While Wisconsin will be and should be confident at home, it can't look past what could be an improved Boilers team.

Snoozer: South Dakota. These are the same Coyotes who stunned Minnesota last year in Minneapolis, but I can't envision Wisconsin's defense folding like the Gophers' did. The Badgers' running backs should have a big day.

Non-con challenge: The Oregon State game jumps out to most folks, but I'm going with a neutral-site matchup against Northern Illinois at Chicago's Soldier Field. The Huskies are now coached by Dave Doeren, who left his post as Wisconsin's defensive coordinator after the Rose Bowl. Doeren knows the Badgers and leads a team that boasts a talented quarterback in Chandler Harnish. Wisconsin could be tested in Chi-town.

Key stretch: The month of October looms large in Wisconsin's quest to repeat as Big Ten champion. Wisconsin opens Big Ten play against Nebraska in a game that will receive a bunch of national attention. After a bye week and a home date against Indiana, the Badgers face back-to-back road tests against Michigan State and Ohio State. Wisconsin has dropped three straight in East Lansing and two straight in Columbus.

Analysis: Budmayr and the other new starters should benefit from having five of the first six games at home and no true road contest until Oct. 22 against Michigan State. Although Nebraska will provide a stern test and Penn State should be a better team, Wisconsin's home schedule doesn't look overly daunting. The big question is whether Wisconsin can overcome its recent woes in East Lansing before heading to Columbus. Who knows what type of Ohio State team will be waiting for the Badgers on Oct. 29? If Wisconsin can survive October, it should have a chance to make some noise in the division down the stretch.

More B1G schedule analysis

• Illinois

These days, MarQueis Gray spends his free time studying tape from Northern Illinois' 2010 season, trying to soak in the offense he'll run at Minnesota this fall.

Gray likes the scheme, which suits his skill set well. But Minnesota's coaches could have told him they'd be running the wishbone or the run 'n' shoot, as long as he would be the man calling signals.

Once Gray heard he was returning to the quarterback spot, nothing else really mattered.

"That's basically what I wanted to hear," Gray told me this week. "It put a smile on my face."

Gray came to Minnesota as a heralded dual-threat quarterback but started at wide receiver last season because the coaches didn't want to waste his talent on clipboard duty. The 6-4, 230-pound Gray finished second on the team in receptions (42), receiving yards (587) and receiving touchdowns (5), while adding 110 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

Although the departure of four-year starting quarterback Adam Weber suggested Gray would return to quarterback, he didn't take anything for granted.

"I had no idea what they were going to do with me," Gray said. "But when [the new staff] first got here, I talked with coach [Jerry] Kill and he told me I was going to be his quarterback. I've played quarterback all my life. I just like being the general on the field, being the man that the team looks to to help them win games."

Gray knows he must re-establish himself as a leader and has taken steps to do so this offseason. He has pushed himself to be more vocal in winter workouts and gathers receivers to go through pass routes after weightlifting sessions.

"I'm getting back into the rhythm of it," he said. "I haven’t being doing it since I left high school, but they believe in me and I believe in them, so I'm pretty sure it’s going to work out."

Gray also has spent time with his new quarterbacks coach, Jim Zebrowski, going over the new scheme. Zebrowski told Gray that the system blends the offenses from Rose Bowl participants TCU and Wisconsin, although Gray sees more plays run from the shotgun and pistol formations than from under center.

Dual-threat quarterback Chandler Harnish excelled in the offense at Northern Illinois, accounting for 28 touchdowns (21 pass, 7 rush) and 3,366 yards of total offense (2,530 pass, 836 rush) in 2010. The Gophers' staff knows Gray will need time to grow in the system, but they like what they're inheriting.

"We were watching the [Minnesota-Iowa] game and he goes back there in the quasi-Wildcat as the quarterback and he lasers one," offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover said. "We kind of looked at each other and said, 'OK, we can work with that.' You think, 'OK, wonderful athlete, can run, can do things with the ball in his hands, All-Big Ten caliber wide receiver,' that's awesome. But then you watch him drop back and throw the ball.

"Then you go, 'This kid's more than just an athlete we're going to put back there. He's a quarterback.'"

This spring, Minnesota players will be in the all too familiar position of learning a new offense.

Gophers seniors will adjust to their fourth offensive coordinator in as many seasons. They've already run the spread, the pro-style and pretty much everything in between, but spring ball will bring new plays, new formations and new expectations.

Here's the good news: Minnesota's newest offense is a keeper.

"This isn't going to change from year to year, and the kids are excited about that," Gophers offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover told me Wednesday. "We will talk to them constantly about laying a foundation. What we do the first day of spring are things that hopefully we're running on New Year's Day in a bowl game.

"We don't just say, 'Whichever way the wind blows, let's run that.' We do have that system that we've worked on and had some success with, and the kids have picked up on that."

Limegrover acknowledges he and the other coaches must sell their system to the players they're inheriting, but it shouldn't be too difficult. They could simply pop in a tape from Northern Illinois' 2010 season.

The Gophers' running backs will see Chad Spann, the Mid-American Conference MVP, scooting across the field for big gains en route to 1,388 rush yards and 22 touchdowns. The receivers will see multiple players involved in a pass attack that stretched the field at times. MarQueis Gray and the other quarterbacks will watch Northern Illinois star Chandler Harnish abuse defenses with both his arm and his feet. Minnesota's offensive linemen will see a unit that powered its way to 260.4 rush yards per game and 6.3 yards per carry.

Limegrover is quick to point out that Northern Illinois' 2010 offense featured veteran players who had spent years mastering the system. But Minnesota players can start the learning process without worrying about more changes.

"We're not going to come with something new every year," Limegrover said. "You learn it. Now we're going to build on it. That's something I've been telling the guys till I'm blue in the face."

Limegrover said a lot of people try to characterize the offense as a spread or a pro-I, but the system is multifaceted and has a lot going on before the snap. Minnesota will show a defense several formations and personnel groupings before the snap, and the offense puts pressure on the quarterback to make the correct checks.

But once the play starts, the Gophers will keep it simple.

"I can't stress enough that the best thing you can do is have your kids feel good about what they're going to do on a post-snap basis," Limegrover said. "Then they're going to be aggressive, they're going to execute. If they're not sure because the picture's changing on them a lot, then that's when you've got trouble.

"We'll do everything we can to try to gain leverage advantages, numbers advantages and personnel advantages pre-snap, but once that ball is snapped, we're pretty basic."

Still catching up on the mail. Bear with me.

Jake from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: Adam, usually I respect your opinions and agree at least somewhat but your preseason team rankings took me by surprise.... ranking Iowa at 7th? behind Northwestern? Even Penn State? Iowa has a proven backup quarterback with Vandenburg, good o-line, at least decent rb, and a good wr group. The D will start with two fresh safeties but the linebackers cornerbacks and D-line should all be good. Also, dont overlook the schedule... Iowa's is favorable. Hope to see a change in the next standings

Adam Rittenberg: Let's keep some perspective here, Jake. I find it hilarious how riled up many of you get about power rankings posted in mid January. A lot will change from now until September. Also, did you ever consider that Northwestern and Penn State have more coming back than Iowa? Northwestern returns everyone on offense and doesn't suffer many major losses from a subpar senior class. Penn State loses a bit more but brings back most of its key contributors on defense. Iowa, meanwhile, not only loses its starting safeties but three starting defensive linemen and quarterback Ricky Stanzi. That said, Iowa is in the PERFECT position entering the season. The Hawkeyes always are at their best under the radar, and they're a very dangerous team in 2011. I'd think Iowa fans would want the Hawkeyes to remain lower in the power rankings, given recent history.

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Mike from New York writes: At the beginning of the season you commented on Tim Brewster's scheduling of top caliber OOC opponents as a great step for getting Minnesota in the spotlight again, but made a point to say in order for it to work, they had to ultimately win games. Could the same thing be said about the Big Ten in bowl season? It can certainly be argued we consistently have the toughest bowl lineup, but the fact of the matter is we put ourselves in that position. My question is, is it better to always play on the big stage and lose more often, or to play on smaller stages and bring a few more Ws into the Big Ten every bowl season? A tough bowl lineup is admirable, but doesn't mean much if you don't win those games.

Adam Rittenberg: Great question, Mike. You certainly get rewarded for winning on the big stage, and the Big Ten experienced that after last year's strong bowl showing. But college football also doesn't punish teams and leagues for who they play. It's all about perception, and if the Big Ten went 5-3 against a much softer bowl lineup, many casual observers would label the Big Ten as a very good league. So is it worth it to play such a tough bowl lineup? I would sprinkle in some easier matchups if I were Jim Delany, but he wants to play the best on the biggest stages, which is understandable and, as you say, admirable. But leagues get ZERO credit for losing tough games. It probably would benefit the Big Ten to strike a better balance. The league also might be better prepared for the tough bowl lineup by playing tougher nonconference schedules, which are steadily improving.

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Jason from State College, Pa., writes: Northwestern will know if Pat Fitzgerald is a lifer or simply on loan by this time next year. All evidence (hear say) indicated that Fitzgerald will leave for State College if asked. I firmly believe that this will be Joe's last season so that loyalty will be put to a test in the near future and I would be shocked if he didn't succeed Joe.

Adam Rittenberg: Prepare to be shocked, Jason. Even you admit it's hearsay regarding Fitzgerald and Penn State. While I firmly believe Penn State will pursue Fitz, people need to start shifting their thinking. There is a strong possibility he never leaves Northwestern. I think there was a better chance Fitzgerald would leave for Michigan than Penn State. During Lloyd Carr's tenure, Northwestern and Michigan often crossed paths on the recruiting trail, and Fitzgerald is more tied to the Midwest than the Mid-Atlantic region. There's also the matter of following a legend like Paterno. It brings a ton of pressure, and coaches are wary of being the guy who follows The Guy. Could Fitz leave for Penn State? It's possible. But don't hold your breath on this one.

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Scott from Chicago writes: Adam, I grew up in Minnesota and have had to endure the pangs of watching the Gophers play doormat in the Ben Ten for awhile now. Although I'm not expecting any dramatic turnaround for 2011, with the incredible tenure of Adam Weber at a close I've almost forgotten what to expect from MarQueis Gray as a quarterback. And although it almost sickens me to imagine yet ANOTHER offensive system on debut in '11, what can coach Kill and staff do to maximize Gray's unquestionable talents as a playmaker?

Adam Rittenberg: Scott, I'd suggest watching some Northern Illinois highlights from the past few seasons. I think after you see how Kill used quarterback Chandler Harnish, you'll get excited about Gray's potential in 2011. Harnish rushed for 836 yards and seven touchdowns this season and complemented his ground game with impressive passing numbers (2,530 yards, 21 TDs). Gray has to make up some ground as a passer, but he clearly can gash defenses as a ball-carrier. I don't think the transition to Kill's offense will be too tough for him.

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Tom from Hong Kong writes: How come Bret Bielema didn't generate any interest from other programs for a head coach spot after his Rose Bowl season?

Adam Rittenberg: Tom, there weren't many job openings better than the one Bielema has at Wisconsin. Michigan could have looked in his direction, but I couldn't have seen him leaving an extremely comfortable situation in Madison for a somewhat shaky one in Ann Arbor. Bielema's in an incredible spot right now. He just led Wisconsin to the Rose Bowl, he makes good money and his boss (Barry Alvarez) loves him. Most coaches want stability and resources above anything else, and Bielema has both at Wisconsin.

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Chris from Omaha, Neb., writes: Hi Adam, My wife and I are going to shoot to attend one Big Ten conference away game for Nebraska next year. I am not very familiar with Big Ten stadiums, so I ask you: Combining the importance of the game, the tradition/coolness of the stadium, the gameday atmosphere of the stadium, and the ease of getting there from Omaha, which game would you suggest? We are also attending the Wyoming game, and would attend the Big Ten Championship and bowl game if we make one or both.

Adam Rittenberg: Chris, you have several outstanding options, but I would go with the first one available. Nebraska plays its first Big Ten game as a league member Oct. 1 at Wisconsin. Camp Randall Stadium is an unbelievable setting, and it will be rocking when the Huskers come to down. Big Ten night games won't be finalized until the spring, but there's an excellent chance the Nebraska-Wisconsin game is played under the lights. If you can't make it to Madison, head to State College or Ann Arbor in November. Both are great towns with terrific game atmospheres, especially Penn State. Travel-wise, you'd be best served heading to Madison, Ann Arbor or Minneapolis. State College is quite a trek from Omaha.

I hate to be overly dramatic, but if Minnesota doesn't rally in the second half against Northern Illinois, the Gophers' season might be hanging by a thread.

The Big Ten schedule does Minnesota no favors with home games against Ohio State, Iowa, Penn State and Northwestern. The Gophers have to find a way to beat Northern Illinois tonight.

After two big special-teams plays helped the Gophers score 10 unanswered points, Minnesota once again fell victim to a problem in the kicking game right before halftime. A blocked punt by Northern Illinois led to a touchdown pass with three seconds left, and NIU leads 20-13.

Both teams are trying to run the ball, but Northern Illinois is having much more success behind Chad Spann (106 rush yards, 1 TD on seven carries). Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber turned in a solid first half, completing 8 of 14 passes with a 20-yard touchdown strike to Da'Jon McKnight, but the Gophers need to get running back Duane Bennett going.

NIU quarterback Chandler Harnish is giving Minnesota's defense trouble, just like he did as a freshman in 2008.

Again, I can't understand the importance of the second half for Minnesota. Tim Brewster's crew must get it done.

The Big Ten slate is a major snoozer this week, but there always are some intriguing story lines when league teams take the field.

Here are 10 of them.

1. Running back roulette: The Evan Royster situation at Penn State will continue to be a major issue until No. 22 starts looking like the running back we saw in each of the last two seasons. Stephfon Green seems to be gaining on Royster, although Penn State guard Stefen Wisniewski tells me Royster doesn't have to worry about his starting job. It'll be interesting to see how the run game fares against unbeaten Temple.

2. Missing their Mark: Michigan State will play its first game without head coach Mark Dantonio, who has returned home from the hospital after suffering a minor heart attack and undergoing surgery Sunday. Offensive coordinator Don Treadwell handles the head-coaching duties Saturday against Northern Colorado. Treadwell still will call the offensive plays, but he'll be on the field rather than in the coaches' booth. It'll be interesting to see how the Spartans handle the emotions and unfamiliarity of not having Dantonio leading them.

3. Must win for Minnesota: It's still September, but Minnesota can't come out of the month 1-3 and have a realistic expectation to reach a third consecutive bowl game. In fact, most of Minnesota's recent bowl appearances have been fueled by strong nonconference performances. The Gophers made some strides last week against USC but couldn't finish. They have to put it all together against a Northern Illinois team that will test the defense with quarterback Chandler Harnish.

4. Wolverines on the defensive: After letting UMass pile up 37 points and 439 yards last week, Michigan's defense had better buckle down Saturday against Bowling Green. The Wolverines are struggling to sack the quarterback (two sacks in three games) or stop the run (169.7 ypg allowed). Bowling Green will be without starting quarterback Matt Schilz (shoulder), so Michigan should have an opportunity to improve before Big Ten play begins.

5. Men down: Both Iowa and Wisconsin received some bad news this week, as the teams announced that Hawkeyes running back Jewel Hampton (knee) and Badgers linebacker Chris Borland (shoulder) both will miss the rest of the season with injuries. Iowa has only one healthy proven running back in Adam Robinson, and it'll be interesting to see how the offense changes, if at all, Saturday against Ball State. The Badgers shouldn't struggle too much with Austin Peay, but the game provides the opportunity to evaluate linebackers like Blake Sorensen, Kevin Claxton, Kevin Rouse, A.J. Fenton and others as they likely take on enhanced roles.

6. Wildcats aim for rare sweep: Between 1964-2007, Northwestern suffered at least one nonconference loss in every season. The Wildcats can sweep through non-league play for the second time in the last three years if they beat Central Michigan on Saturday. Despite road trips to Vanderbilt and Rice, Wildcats coach Pat Fitzgerald calls the Chippewas "our stiffest test of the year, no question." Northwestern has been solid in Big Ten play for the last decade, but it needs to get over it annual hiccups in non-league play.

7. Et tu, Brute?: There should be plenty of Ohio State highlights Saturday against Eastern Michigan, though it shouldn't be very competitive on the field. The real intrigue lies with Brutus Buckeye, who returns to the field after being ambushed by Ohio University's mascot last week. Eastern Michigan's mascot, Swoop the Eagle, looks friendly enough, but Brutus had better beware.

8. MAC attack: Eight Big Ten schools take on opponents from the Mid-American Conference on Saturday. Although most Big Ten fan bases aren't too worried about this, the MAC recorded four wins against its big brother league in 2008 and two in 2009. Temple, Toledo and Central Michigan all bring winning records into Big Ten stadiums Saturday. Don't be shocked if the MAC secures at least one win Saturday.

9. Show some ID, please: Several Big Ten offenses are still searching for their identities as league play beckons. Purdue is trying to overcome a rash of injuries and figure out what works best in the Robert Marve era before a bye week. Penn State boasts tremendous talent at wide receiver but has lacked consistency in the run game. Minnesota and Michigan State have been run-first teams so far this season, but both squads also boast some weapons in the passing game, as they showed last week. We should get a better idea of what these units are all about after Saturday.

10. Hoosiers on the ground: Indiana needs to improve both its rushing offense and rushing defense before Big Ten play kicks off next week against Michigan. The Hoosiers rank last in the league in both categories, making Saturday's game against winless Akron all the more critical. As good as Ben Chappell can be this season, he needs some help from Darius Willis and the running backs. And IU's defense has to lock it down better against the run before Denard Robinson comes to town.

Let's look back at Week 3 before gearing up for a riveting slate of games Saturday in the Big Ten (sarcasm, people).

Team of the Week: Michigan State. After suffering a series of close losses in the past three years, Michigan State finally turned the tables -- against one of its top rivals, no less. A seesaw game featured some offensive fireworks on both sides, and for certain stretches, Michigan State achieved the type of offensive balance that could make it very dangerous when Big Ten play rolls around. But the Spartans once again seemed to wilt in the clutch as quarterback Kirk Cousins took some costly sacks. Notre Dame regained the momentum late in regulation and in overtime, but Michigan State changed everything with a gutsy fake field goal call that resulted in the game-winning 29-yard touchdown pass. Although coach Mark Dantonio's health setback put the celebration on pause, Michigan State has an opportunity to build off this win.

Best game: Notre Dame at Michigan State. The game featured four lead changes, 938 yards, 65 points and the most memorable play of the young college football season, as punter/holder Aaron Bates found tight end Charlie Gantt for a 29-yard touchdown on the fake field goal try in overtime. Quarterbacks Cousins and Dayne Crist both had their moments, as did receivers Michael Floyd and B.J. Cunningham. Just a very entertaining game between rivals. Honorable mentions go to Wisconsin-Arizona State, which featured several wild special-teams plays, and Iowa-Arizona, which featured a furious Hawkeyes rally from a 27-7 halftime deficit and an Arizona counterpunch in the clutch.

Biggest play: Isn't it obvious by now? No one expected the fake field goal, especially from a typically conservative coach like Dantonio. It was the right call at the right time and Bates, a former high school quarterback, deserves credit for going to his second read after Le'Veon Bell was covered. If Michigan State goes on to have a big season, we'll all point to this play. Wisconsin also received two huge special-teams plays from safeties Shelton Johnson and Jay Valai. Johnson tripped up Arizona State kick returner Kyle Middlebrooks at the 1-yard line as the second quarter clock expired, saving six points and a huge momentum swing going into halftime. The 5-foot-9 Valai showed off his hops by blocking the potential game-tying PAT attempt with 4:09 left as Wisconsin won 20-19.

Specialist spotlight: Bates had a huge night against Notre Dame, and his game-winning pass to Gantt overshadowed his prowess as a punter, as he averaged 45.4 yards on eight punts. Illinois punter Anthony Santella leads the nation in punting average (48.9 ypg) after averaging 48.7 yards per boot on Saturday against Northern Illinois. Northwestern kicker Stefan Demos went 3-for-3 on field goal attempts against Rice, and Wisconsin punter Brad Nortman averaged 43 yards on four punts and had one downed inside the 5-yard line against Arizona State.

Game balls (given to players from winning teams not selected for helmet stickers):

• Wisconsin TE Lance Kendricks: Kendricks knew he'd have to step up Saturday as Wisconsin played without two of its top receivers (Nick Toon and David Gilreath). The senior tight end looked like a wide receiver again as he hauled in seven receptions for 131 yards and a touchdown, even though he was interfered with in the end zone. He shares the game ball with quarterback Scott Tolzien (19-25 passing, 246 yards, 1 TD).
• Michigan RB Michael Shaw: Denard Robinson didn't have to do it all against UMass as Shaw racked up career highs in both rushing yards (126) and touchdowns (3) on only 12 carries. He shares the game ball with Robinson, who had another big day, and receiver Darryl Stonum (3 receptions, 121 yards, 2 TDs).
• Ohio State LB Ross Homan: Homan has carried over his stellar play from 2009 and continues to become one of the league's top defensive playmakers. The senior had seven solo tackles, a forced fumble and an interception against Ohio. Kudos also go to fellow Buckeyes defender Tyler Moeller, who recorded his first career interception, a forced fumble and 1.5 tackles for loss.
• Michigan State RB Le'Veon Bell: Bell is the early leader for Big Ten Freshman of the Year after recording his second 100-yard rushing performance in his first three collegiate games. The big man rumbled for 114 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries against Notre Dame. He shares the game ball with receiver B.J. Cunningham (7 receptions, 101 yards, TD) and fellow back Edwin Baker (14 carries, 90 rush yards, TD).
• Northwestern LB Quentin Davie: The senior leads the Big Ten in interceptions after recording his third -- a pick-six, no less -- in Saturday night's blowout win at Rice. Davie recorded a game-high 10 tackles, including 1.5 for loss and a pass breakup. He shares the game ball with defensive linemen Vince Browne, Corbin Bryant and Jack DiNardo, who combined for 7.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
• Purdue WR Cortez Smith: The Boilers need a No. 1 receiver to emerge after losing Keith Smith, and Cortez Smith looks reads to fill the void. He recorded five receptions for 117 yards and two touchdowns against Ball State. He'll share the game ball with defenders Gerald Gooden (5 tackles, forced fumble, pass breakup), Kawann Short (two pass breakups, blocked PAT) and Jason Werner (INT, 1 TFL).

How bizarre: The league-wide special teams struggles as well as a few odd highlights stood out in Week 3. Who can remember the last time the Big Ten had so many meltdowns with punting, kicking, kickoff coverage and punt coverage? Then again, the three biggest plays on Saturday came in the kicking game: Michigan State's game-winning fake field goal, Johnson's touchdown-saving tackle on a kickoff return and Valai's PAT block to preserve a 20-19 lead.

OK, moving on to Week 4. Do we have to? I know it's my job to get your excited for Big Ten football 24-7-365, but this week provides a major challenge, to say the least.

Northern Colorado (2-1) at Michigan State (3-0): Spartans offensive coordinator Don Treadwell takes over the head-coaching duties from Mark Dantonio, who suffered a mild heart attack following the Notre Dame win. The Spartans look for a more complete defensive performance before Wisconsin visits on Oct. 2.

Central Michigan (2-1) at Northwestern (3-0): Northwestern aims for its second perfect nonconference mark in the past three seasons after going 35 years with at least one non-league loss. Central Michigan should test Davie and the Wildcats' defense, which has forced nine turnovers in the first three games.

Bowling Green (1-2) at Michigan (3-0): The Wolverines' sputtering defense likely won't face Falcons starting quarterback Matt Schilz, who isn't expected to play because of a shoulder injury. Michigan's offense will light up the scoreboard, but the D has to get better before Big Ten play.

Austin Peay (2-1) at Wisconsin (3-0): Yawn. If Wisconsin can't dominate the Governors (ello, guvna!), Badgers fans should get worried. This provides a good chance for the Badgers to assess their depth on both sides of the ball.

Ball State (1-2) at Iowa (2-1): Although the Cardinals hung in there at Purdue, Iowa should have no trouble Saturday. The bigger question is whether the Hawkeyes can clean up their play in the kicking game, on the offensive line and in the secondary after the Arizona loss.

Toledo (2-1) at Purdue (2-1): Quarterback Robert Marve's left knee injury doesn't appear to be serious, and the Boilers need to get No. 9 through this game and into the bye week without further setbacks. Arizona shredded Toledo's defense in the season opener, and Purdue should have opportunities to further develop a receiving corps missing star Keith Smith.

Eastern Michigan (0-3) at Ohio State (3-0): The Buckeyes could score 70 in this one. I'm not kidding. Eastern Michigan has surrendered 111 points in its first three games.

Temple (3-0) at Penn State (2-1): This is the most interesting game in the Big Ten. Temple heads to State College with a ton of confidence as coach Al Golden might be auditioning for the Nittany Lions' faithful. Penn State's running back race now is open as slumping senior Evan Royster tries to hold off junior Stephfon Green and dynamic freshman Silas Redd. Should be a good one in Happy Valley.

Akron (0-3) at Indiana (2-0): Ben Chappell and the Hoosiers' offense likely will carve up another bad team Saturday, as Akron has been blown out by Syracuse and Kentucky and lost at home to Gardner-Webb (ouch). The bigger question is whether the Hoosiers' defense can shut down the Zips.

Northern Illinois (1-2) at Minnesota (1-2): It's must-win time for embattled coach Tim Brewster and his Golden Gophers, who performed a lot better Saturday against USC but still couldn't finish off a good team. Northern Illinois will test Minnesota's new-look defense with quarterback Chandler Harnish, and Minnesota needs to reignite the run game despite Duane Bennett's ankle issues.

Bye: Illinois (2-1)

As play gets started here in Madison and in Minneapolis, here's my take on what has happened so far around the Big Ten today.

The league boasts a perfect 5-0 record, although there are some concerns in several places.

Ohio State 43, Ohio 7: The Buckeyes continued to look like one of the nation's best teams Saturday. Then again, Ohio made it pretty easy for the Scarlet and Gray, committing five turnovers to give itself absolutely no chance in this one. There are a ton of positives for Ohio State right now, but the best is the fact the Buckeyes' defense has maintained its opportunistic play from 2009, when it tied for third nationally in takeaways (35). Ohio State has forced 12 turnovers in the first three games and committed only two of its own. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor had an efficient first half (17-for-20 passing, 2 TDs) but threw his first two interceptions of the season.

Michigan 42, Massachusetts 37: It looked really dicey for a while as Massachusetts built a 17-7 lead late in the first half and rallied late, but the Michigan offense made sure this wouldn't be Appalachian State Part II. Denard Robinson committed his first turnover of the season early on but did little else wrong, putting up more insane offensive numbers (241 passing, 105 rushing, 3 total TDs). He got big lifts from running back Michael Shaw (12 carries, 126 rush yards, 3 TDs) and wide receiver Darryl Stonum (3 receptions, 121 receiving yards, 2 TDs). For all the good news on offense, Michigan's defense looks very vulnerable and likely will cost the Wolverines several games once Big Ten play begins. Massachusetts racked up 26 first downs and 439 yards against the Wolverines, who are really struggling in the back end.

Penn State 24, Kent State 0: The shutout is nice, Penn State fans should be a little worried now. Something is wrong with All-Big Ten running back Evan Royster. The senior had another pedestrian performance (11 carries, 38 yards, 1 TD) against a good run defense, but teammate Stephfon Green (11 carries, 59 rush yards) found some room to roam. After scoring two touchdowns in the first 11 minutes, Penn State couldn't find the end zone until midway through the fourth quarter. Quarterback Rob Bolden, looking a bit like a freshman these days, tossed two interceptions and Royster fumbled early in the second half.

Purdue 24, Ball State 13: Purdue survived its first game without All-Big Ten wideout Keith Smith, but starting quarterback Robert Marve left today's game with an apparent left leg injury. Cortez Smith stepped up nicely in place of Smith against Ball State, recording five receptions for 117 yards and two touchdowns. Backup quarterback Rob Henry provided a nice lift with a touchdown pass and 65 rushing yards and a touchdown, but the injury bug keeps hitting Purdue hard this season. Purdue's defense did a nice job, as Ricardo Allen and Jason Werner recorded interceptions and Ball State finished with only 106 pass yards.

Illinois 28, Northern Illinois 22: You can't underestimate the importance of this win for Ron Zook's squad. The Illini didn't want to head into the bye week at 1-2, especially with a daunting stretch to open Big Ten play (Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan State). Northern Illinois took a first-quarter lead behind talented quarterback Chandler Harnish, but the Illini rallied and then held off the Huskies. It's about time people start giving Mikel LeShoure some credit. He has been one of the nation's best running backs since late last season and put up more big numbers today (24 carries, 180 rush yards, 1 TD). Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase struggled with his passing but contributed 115 rush yards and a touchdown. Although Harnish gave Illinois fits with his legs and his arm, Vic Koenning's defense did enough to secure the victory.

It has been a mixed bag so far in the early Big Ten games. Teams are either on fire or a little chilly.

Ohio State is absolutely destroying Ohio, riding a near-perfect Terrelle Pryor and three Bobcats turnovers to a 34-0 lead. Penn State and Purdue also are in command behind strong performances from their defenses and quarterbacks Rob Bolden and Robert Marve. Evan Royster has a touchdown for Penn State but still could use a breakaway run or two.

The situation in Ann Arbor, meanwhile, isn't pretty, as Michigan has looked extremely sloppy against Massachusetts, which leads 10-7 midway through the second quarter. I'm not quite ready to talk Appalachian State just yet, but the Michigan defense needs to shore up a lot of things in the second half. Rich Rodriguez also needs a kicker ASAP.

Illinois' defense also is struggling to stop Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish, who has a 37-yard touchdown run. Illini quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase is running the ball well but completed just 3 of his first 6 pass attempts.

Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg

It was an OK, but not great week for the Big Ten, and the same for my picks. I went 8-3, wasn't close on several scores and came close on a few others.

Here's hoping for better results all around on Saturday.

Michigan 34, Eastern Michigan 14 -- A bit a hangover for Michigan after the Notre Dame win, but the run game eventually gets going behind Brandon Minor. Tate Forcier does his thing, and Rich Rodriguez gets Denard Robinson some more reps as Michigan matches its wins total from 2008 only three games into the season.

California 35, Minnesota 23 -- I could see Cal starting slow, but the Bears shouldn't be nearly as flat as they were last year against Maryland. Minnesota has done some nice things on defense, but Cal's offense seems just too powerful. The Gophers haven't found offensive playmakers aside from wide receiver Eric Decker and aren't able to keep up with Cal on the scoreboard.

Penn State 48, Temple 6 -- After a ho-hum win against Syracuse, Penn State shows a greater sense of urgency with Big Ten play looming and thumps Temple. The run game finally gets going as Evan Royster eclipses 100 rushing yards and Stephfon Green adds 75. The Lions defense holds Temple to two field goals as defensive end Jack Crawford has a big day.

Wisconsin 44, Wofford 7 -- The Badgers are healthier and Wofford is not, as leading rusher Eric Breitenstein will be out a month with a knee injury. John Clay puts up 150 rush yards in his first career start and Dave Doeren's defense gets some of its swagger back against the FCS Terriers.

Purdue 35, Northern Illinois 27 -- Something tells me this one won't be easy for Purdue, but the Boilers prevail behind Ralph Bolden and quarterback Joey Elliott, who bounces back from last week's loss with an encouraging performance. Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish tests a banged-up Boilermakers secondary, but Purdue tightens up its play and prevails.

Ohio State 41, Toledo 17 -- This is a good matchup for a struggling Buckeyes offense, which should put up points against a Toledo team that allowed 90 in the first two games. Terrelle Pryor has a big day with his arm and his feet, and the Buckeyes roll. Aaron Opelt could give Ohio State some problems, but the defense I saw last week in Columbus is too solid up front to allow many points.

Notre Dame 28, Michigan State 27 -- By far the toughest game to pick this week, but I'm going with the team that needs it more. Home field really doesn't matter for Notre Dame, which has dropped six straight to Michigan State. But the Irish know a loss here likely torpedoes their season and head coach Charlie Weis. The Spartans secondary struggled mightily last week, and Notre Dame's Golden Tate and Michael Floyd are better than Central Michigan's Antonio Brown and Bryan Anderson. Kirk Cousins plays well, but the Spartans come up just short.

Akron 24, Indiana 20 -- My lack of faith in the Hoosiers hurt me last week, and we'll see what happens this time around. Indiana's defense has performed admirably so far, but the team has made too many mistakes for my liking. Akron quarterback Chris Jacquemain is pretty good, and he attacks the IU secondary with Deryn Bowser. The Hoosiers can't survive mistakes on the road and drop this one.

Iowa 21, Arizona 17 -- It will be a defensive struggle at Kinnick Stadium, as both units are solid. Arizona running back Nic Grigsby makes some plays, but Iowa forces several turnovers, including a key interception in the fourth quarter that proves to be the difference. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi limits mistakes and throws a pair of touchdown passes

Northwestern 26, Syracuse 21 -- The win won't come easily for Northwestern, but you have to think the coaches will expand the playbook on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Mike Kafka finally showcases his mobility against an aggressive Orange defense, and he has another big day in a dome. The Wildcats defense gets a big boost from the return of cornerback Sherrick McManis, who keeps Orange star wideout Mike Williams relatively in check.

Bye -- Illinois

Season record -- 18-4 (.818)