Big Ten Rooting Interests
Indiana @Penn State
This one is a bit interesting, but don’t overthink it. Yes, an Indiana win would likely get the Hoosiers ranked by the committee, and they could possibly stay there, even with a loss to Michigan. Penn State would also still likely be ranked at 9-3. Still, that’s not what’s best for the Buckeyes. Indiana at 8-4 will be viewed as a decent win. Penn State at 10-2 would be a great win, and likely a Top 10 team. One great win plus one decent win is always better than two good wins in the eyes of the committee.
Wisconsin @Nebraska
Don’t overthink this one either. Yes, it would be nice if Nebraska was a bowl team. But Wisconsin moving into or around the Top 10 is more important. Root for the Badgers to win in impressive fashion.
Michigan State @Michigan
The exact same calculus as in the last game applies to this one. Michigan is close to a Top 10 team with an impressive win here. Not only that, but Michigan State closes with Rutgers and Maryland, and should be able to reach 6-6 anyway. Michigan winning this game is better for the Buckeyes.
UMass @Northwestern
I’d cite pity as a reason to root for Northwestern, but UMass deserves pity more. The Wildcats will be viewed as a cupcake no matter what happens this game, but them winning hurts less than them losing this game.
Minnesota @Iowa
Root for Minnesota here, for a few reasons. First of all, it’s better for the Buckeyes if Minnesota can win the Big Ten West–but preferably if the Gophers lose to Wisconsin along the way. For that to happen, Minnesota needs to beat Iowa. Also, a Minnesota win likely jumps the Gophers into the Top
5 (maybe even Top 4) of the committee’s rankings, which is good for the Big Ten’s perception as a whole. However, the Hawkeyes should keep it close so that they can finish the season ranked if they end up 8-4. That would boost the resumes of Wisconsin, Penn State, and Michigan, which in turn helps Ohio State.