Big Ten football put on a compelling first week of conference play that included the potential of seeing five ranked teams upset, and one of those games a matchup between two ranked squads.
As good as some of the games were, some performances were bad or just plain ugly, including the near-collapse of Michigan and USC forgetting to show up for large chunks of its game.
Let’s look at all the good, bad, and ugly from Week 5 of the Big Ten football season.
The Good
Penn State dominated both lines of scrimmage in a 21-7 win over the visiting Illinois Fighting Illini. The defense allowed 219 total yards, and the offensive line allowed RBs Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton to get 196 combined rushing yards on 5.8 yards per carry.
Speaking of running backs, Rutgers RB Kyle Monangai helped the Scarlet Knights remain undefeated with 132 rushing yards and another touchdown against Washington.
The Indiana Hoosiers have scored at least 42 points in four straight games, and average 48.8 points per game. They have been a blast to watch with the ball.
The Bad
Nebraska won, but failed to score a point in the first half in their road win at Purdue. WR Jahmal Banks caught a six-yard pass from QB Dylan Raiola with 2:49 left in the third frame.
Illini QB Luke Altmeyer finally threw his first interception of the season. Two road games against top 25 opponents is a tough ask of most programs.
USC and Michigan won their games, but both teams disappeared for entire halves.
The Ugly
Wisconsin and Minnesota both had good halves in their losses to USC and Michigan, respectively, but both teams playing as if they didn’t belong was discouraging. Kudos to Minnesota for once again playing a close game against a good opponent (Michigan’s defense).
Wolverines QB Alex Orji is one of the worst signal callers starting in FBS. His inability to be trusted to move the ball through the air will cost Michigan as long as he plays.
Purdue and UCLA are happy to be here. Both teams are unwatchable so far this season.