Week 4 Preview

Week 4 in the Big Ten is a week where some middle of the road teams can prove themselves and give them some momentum going into Big Ten play next week. Three games really come to mind this week where the Big Ten really needs to prove itself.

1) Iowa at Pittsburgh- This matchup is extremely intriguing because although Iowa has looked dominant so far, this is their first road test. The Iowa defense will have face one of the best running backs in the country in LeSean McCoy which could show everyone just how good the Iowa defense may or may not be. Then there is the question at quarterback which I believe should no longer be a question. In my opinion Stanzi proved last week that he doesn't have the experience or comfort level against better competition. If Christensen can make some plays and not turn the ball over against Pitt he will be the starter for this season.

2) Northwestern vs Ohio- Northwestern has looked like an improved team this season as they are looking to make a bowl game. After a 3-0 start this week could show a lot as the Wildcats face a Ohio team that gave Ohio State a run in Week 2. This game could also be a gauge for the Big Ten and show us how good Ohio State may be this year if Northwestern is able to dominate Ohio.

3) Michigan State vs Notre Dame- Michigan State's Javon Ringer has been running all over everyone as he has piled up 498 yards and 9 TD's through the first 3 Weeks. This game looks to be a good one since Michigan State hasn't really played anyone since their Week 1 loss at Cal. Now they are facing an upstart Notre Dame program that dominate Michigan 35-17 last weekend.

Now for my Week 4 Picks

Ohio State 32, Troy 20 - Buckeyes don't appear to have things clicking this year but have too much talent for Troy even without running back Chris "Beanie" Wells.

Penn State 58, Temple 13- Penn State continues to prove they are the top team in the Big Ten this year as they continue to dominate their opponents.

Northwestern 24, Ohio 17- Northwestern gets off to a 4-0 start as QB CJ Bacher and RB Tyrell Sutton prove too much for Ohio although they make it a tough game.

Minnesota 24, Florida Atlantic 20- Minnesota gets a scare from a solid Florida Atlantic offense but the Owls defense just can't stop the Gophers.

Iowa 24, Pittsburgh 17- Iowa defense faces its toughest challenge of the year but are up for it as they do just enough. Christensen throws for 2 TD's to secure his spot as the starter.

Purdue 35, Central Michigan 13- Purdue comes out firing after a disappointing loss to Oregon in overtime. Boilermakers offense too much for Central Michigan.

Michigan State 30, Notre Dame 24- Not much defense in this game but too much Javon Ringer carries Michigan State past an improved Notre Dame squad.

Indiana 17, Ball State 27- Close game but Ball State gets the win as Indiana's secondary can't slow down Quarterback Nate Davis and WR Dante Love.

Season Record(starter Week 3): 8-2