Way Too Early Big Ten Season Predictions

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

[Omega]

The 2023 season that will unfold we be the last for the Big 10 in its traditional geographical footprint of the Mid East and Mid West. The surf will be up as USC and UCLA join the Big 10 in 2024.

As to predictions for 2023, Michigan is the clear choice to win the Big 10. They addressed their graduation losses by signing the top rated class in the transfer portal and return 80%+ of their offense in McCaffery, Corum and Edwards. There is no doubt Harbaugh has flipped The Game's rivalry script.

Is Ohio State second? More than a few writers have picked Penn State.

Another story line are the new coaches. Can Matt Rhule lead Nebraska back to respectability? Can Luke Fickell awake the sleeping giant in Wisconsin

Finally can Bert Bielema keep Illinois in its winning ways.

[1987chieftains]

Luke Fickell at Wisky could turn into a scary good program.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

Wisconsin was already a tough out with Paul Chryst and his 1990s offense. Have to think adding a modern minded coach who hasn't totally abandoned smash mouth, physical football will make them a very real threat to the current powers. Add in his recruiting chops and Ohio connections and yeah. Wisconsin is going to be pretty scary moving forward. Also, I for one am not on board with adding USC and UCLA. Iowa State, WVU, Virginia, and VA Tech would've made much more geographical sense, but unfortunately, all bow before the almighty dollar.

Also, can we make fun of Lincoln Riley for running from the SEC, only to have his new program headed to a conference that's every bit as difficult, only colder?

[Omega]

Wisconsin was already a tough out with Paul Chryst and his 1990s offense. Have to think adding a modern minded coach who hasn't totally abandoned smash mouth, physical football will make them a very real threat to the current powers. Add in his recruiting chops and Ohio connections and yeah. Wisconsin is going to be pretty scary moving forward. Also, I for one am not on board with adding USC and UCLA. Iowa State, WVU, Virginia, and VA Tech would've made much more geographical sense, but unfortunately, all bow before the almighty dollar.

Also, can we make fun of Lincoln Riley for running from the SEC, only to have his new program headed to a conference that's every bit as difficult, only colder?

We should always make fun of Lincoln Riley, but USC's joining the Big 10 and expected improvement at Wisconsin just well could move the conference power center away from Ann Arbor, Columbus, and State College.


On the conferences now and in the future, I would prefer keeping a regional geographic format, but the VaTechs and WVUs just do not have a big enough fan/ tv viewer base to make them viable candidates in a media dollar driven world.

[baseball16]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

We can tell you are not a True Xichigan Person. Nobody from Xichigan refers Ohio State as that TTDS. Xichigan fans refer Ohio State as "OHIO" That is it. TTUN was used by Woody and many Ohio State fans use it. Other than that, its a pretty good rundown except Maryland will upset someone in the BIG , Iowa will have a legit chance at winning the West, and Fleck will never be fired. Minn loves him and all his slogans. The Game will once again determine the Big Champion.

[Omega]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

We can tell you are not a True Xichigan Person. Nobody from Xichigan refers Ohio State as that TTDS. Xichigan fans refer Ohio State as "OHIO" That is it. TTUN was used by Woody and many Ohio State fans use it. Other than that, its a pretty good rundown. The Game will once again determine the Big Champion.

Don't know if BB16 was the author of the analysis, but I have seen several similar articles elevating Harbaugh and Michigan program over Day and the Buckeyes. Part of it is to generate controversy and readership but the truth hurts. Michigan now owns the rivalry. Harbaugh's team has outscored the Bucks 56-17 during the second halfs of the last two games. That is dominance.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

We can tell you are not a True Xichigan Person. Nobody from Xichigan refers Ohio State as that TTDS. Xichigan fans refer Ohio State as "OHIO" That is it. TTUN was used by Woody and many Ohio State fans use it. Other than that, its a pretty good rundown except Maryland will upset someone in the BIG , Iowa will have a legit chance at winning the West, and Fleck will never be fired. Minn loves him and all his slogans. The Game will once again determine the Big Champion.

Bud, I don't even say the name of this state if I can help it. I only reluctantly use the letter o at all. The whole calling them by their state's name thing was started by the second worst HC in program history, Brady Joke, I mean Choke, I mean Hoke. So it's best to leave that behind, where it belongs.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

We can tell you are not a True Xichigan Person. Nobody from Xichigan refers Ohio State as that TTDS. Xichigan fans refer Ohio State as "OHIO" That is it. TTUN was used by Woody and many Ohio State fans use it. Other than that, its a pretty good rundown. The Game will once again determine the Big Champion.

Don't know if BB16 was the author of the analysis, but I have seen several similar articles elevating Harbaugh and Michigan program over Day and the Buckeyes. Part of it is to generate controversy and readership but the truth hurts. Michigan now owns the rivalry. Harbaugh's team has outscored the Bucks 56-17 during the second halfs of the last two games. That is dominance.

This entire post was my thought, late one night. Never too early to talk football season. Haven't cared about Michigan basketball since Howard slapped an opposing coach. Won't care again until he's gone. He's a great recruiter, but he can't manage a game, and by his own admission, hired Phil Martelli because Phil knew how to coach better, having more experience and all.

[OHHS old timer]

I actually agree with those B1G predictions....Buckeyes slightly down while the Aardvarks are going up.

That statement should make @9.5 INCHES somewhat happy...lol

tOSU could finish third behind Penn State...imho

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

These last couple wins by Michigan have actually felt meaningful. It's not like the team down south had half their offense suspended with an interim HC in over his head. These have been legitimate top 5-6 teams that Michigan has just been able to run over, around, and through. It took a lot longer than the Michigan faithful, myself included, had imagined, but success when it matters most is indescribably great.

What's even better is seeing the success Michigan is having recruiting the state to the south. Even Glenville doesn't seem off limits anymore and outside of Frank Clark in 2011 or 2012, I can't think of another big time player to go to Michigan from there since Ted Ginn Sr. took the HC job there.

[Omega]

These last couple wins by Michigan have actually felt meaningful. It's not like the team down south had half their offense suspended with an interim HC in over his head. These have been legitimate top 5-6 teams that Michigan has just been able to run over, around, and through. It took a lot longer than the Michigan faithful, myself included, had imagined, but success when it matters most is indescribably great.

What's even better is seeing the success Michigan is having recruiting the state to the south. Even Glenville doesn't seem off limits anymore and outside of Frank Clark in 2011 or 2012, I can't think of another big time player to go to Michigan from there since Ted Ginn Sr. took the HC job there.

I agree that the worm has turned in the rivalry and that Ohio State is now the underdog in the series. The reason is recruiting, the transfer portal, and player development.

My thought on recruiting is not that Michigan has higher ranked recruiting classes, but rather Ohio State's recruiting prowess has been skewed by emphasis on skilled offensive players at the expense of balance on defense and the offensive line.

Michigan for the second year in a row has won the recruiting rankings in the transfer portal, getting plug and play, already developed starters for their offensive line, which has won the Moore award two years in a row for the nation:s best linemen.

And consider player development. Why do Ohio State's five stars fail to play to their potential outside of quarterback and receivers? Is it that the Meyers/Day recruiting approach of pitching NFL development puts the emphasis on individual goals rather than team goals?

I think highly of Ryan Day. His record speaks for itself. Yet under his guidance has Ohio State become Oklahoma? A juggernaut offense that masks problems elsewhere.

Harbaugh may be a strange duck, but he has built Michigan into a championship program within the Big 10, and that should continue in 2023. How long that dominance continues remains to be seen however. The arrival of Luke Fickell at Wisconsin and SoCal joining the Big 10 next year could change the competitive balance in the conference.

Also do not count the Buckeyes out. The talent is there if Day can put it altogether. The Georgia game proved OSU can compete with anyone, but also highlighted the problems that keep the Buckeyes from grabbing the gold ring.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

BOOM! #91 overall recruit C/O 2024 RB Jordan Marshall (Archbishop Moeller HS) commits to THE University of Michigan. HUGE get for Harbaugh and the gang, not only because of his talent, but because Day REALLY wanted him. Payback for swiping Mike Weber from Cass Tech.

Still a very good chance Michigan lands another top 40 overall recruit at RB. Taylor Tatum out of Texas was recently crystal balled to Michigan. Jadyn Davis continues to be the main focus of this cycle as he should be. Rumblings of a few more Ohio linemen to commit to Michigan as well as a high 4 star OT from Texas.

Recruiting success seems to be following the success on the field, and not a moment too soon.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

If Michigan pulls Bryce West from Glenville, it's time for the fine folks in Columbus to panic because Ted Ginn has had that school on lockdown for the last 18 or so years. I doubt it happens, but if it does, that's a MASSIVE steal.

[Omega]

A rather hot take on the status of The Game and rivalry from former Wolverine, Braylon Edwards:

"They are what they are now. They are a team that can't beat Michigan. Their team, for whatever it is in the second half, and even in the first half, struggles to beat Michigan. They struggle in the trenches against Michigan. Jim Harbaugh has built this team in the trenches with linemen. On the offensive side, they've won that (Joe Moore Award) two years in a row. On the opposite side, you look at the defensive line – two years in a row – they've had studs. They destroy Ohio State.

"Now, this is where I say it is over. It's not just that Michigan is beating Ohio State. They're having their way with Ohio State. It's not even interesting in the second half anymore, especially in the fourth quarter. It's just not. Ohio State fans are off on Ryan Day. The kids seem like they're trying to basically get to the NFL.

"For Ohio State to be 'Wide Receiver U,' you're talking about who is there now, you got the two best receivers in the country in Marvin Harrison Jr. and (Emeka) Egbuka... they had Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Why if I am one of the best quarterbacks in the country (Jadyn Davis), why would I choose a school that hasn't had a 1,000-yard receiver since Jeremy Gallon? Why would I choose to a place that doesn't throw the ball like that? Why would I choose that place over Ohio State, where I know I can easily be the next (Dwayne) Haskins or C.J. Stroud or Justin Fields and fall in line? It's because that program is not as good as the one in Ann Arbor, and I know that. They're shortening and shortening and shortening... They used to have three DBs in the first round, some linemen, a couple of Bosa brothers or Chase Young. You're not having that anymore. That program is falling apart and recruits can see it."

https://www.elevenwarriors.com/skull-se ... igan-hwoyt

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_gaOxWxPs ... b_imp_woyt

Buckeye fans should take umbrage at those statements, but sometimes the truth hurts.

Of course with the expanded 12 team playoffs stay in 2024, does beating Michigan really matter if your goal is the CFP?

[1987chieftains]

I said it when Meyer left and its holding true. Day is not the recruiter Meyer was and its showing.

[OHHS old timer]

A rather hot take on the status of The Game and rivalry from former Wolverine, Braylon Edwards:

"They are what they are now. They are a team that can't beat Michigan. Their team, for whatever it is in the second half, and even in the first half, struggles to beat Michigan. They struggle in the trenches against Michigan. Jim Harbaugh has built this team in the trenches with linemen. On the offensive side, they've won that (Joe Moore Award) two years in a row. On the opposite side, you look at the defensive line – two years in a row – they've had studs. They destroy Ohio State.

"Now, this is where I say it is over. It's not just that Michigan is beating Ohio State. They're having their way with Ohio State. It's not even interesting in the second half anymore, especially in the fourth quarter. It's just not. Ohio State fans are off on Ryan Day. The kids seem like they're trying to basically get to the NFL.

"For Ohio State to be 'Wide Receiver U,' you're talking about who is there now, you got the two best receivers in the country in Marvin Harrison Jr. and (Emeka) Egbuka... they had Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Why if I am one of the best quarterbacks in the country (Jadyn Davis), why would I choose a school that hasn't had a 1,000-yard receiver since Jeremy Gallon? Why would I choose to a place that doesn't throw the ball like that? Why would I choose that place over Ohio State, where I know I can easily be the next (Dwayne) Haskins or C.J. Stroud or Justin Fields and fall in line? It's because that program is not as good as the one in Ann Arbor, and I know that. They're shortening and shortening and shortening... They used to have three DBs in the first round, some linemen, a couple of Bosa brothers or Chase Young. You're not having that anymore. That program is falling apart and recruits can see it."

https://www.elevenwarriors.com/skull-se ... igan-hwoyt

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_gaOxWxPs ... b_imp_woyt

Buckeye fans should take umbrage at those statements, but sometimes the truth hurts.

Of course with the expanded 12 team playoffs stay in 2024, does beating Michigan really matter if your goal is the CFP?

He was blunt and on point with those remarks.

[Bleeding Red]

TTUN is 3-18 (I believe) in the last 21 years. I dont see that as now dominating the series, even though they have won the last 2 matchups.

Lets not forget OSU had the opportunity to beat Georgia late in the game, while TTUN got beat by TCU, who got ran off the field by Georgia.

This year the tide shifts back to the Bucks.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

TTUN is 3-18 (I believe) in the last 21 years. I dont see that as now dominating the series, even though they have won the last 2 matchups.

Lets not forget OSU had the opportunity to beat Georgia late in the game, while TTUN got beat by TCU, who got ran off the field by Georgia.

This year the tide shifts back to the Bucks.

You must have missed THE part where THE University of Michigan spotted TCU 28 points in that game and still managed to take that game down to THE wire. Two pick sixes and two turnovers with goal to go from inside THE 3 is a 28 point swing all in favor of TCU. You can't say something like that about THE smackdown that THE University of Michigan put on THE team down south during THE Saturday after Thanksgiving. THE University of Michigan returns almost everyone from that team and THE Game is in THE Big House. It will likely be THE final game that Third Base coaches in THE red and gray as I expect a 30+ point beatdown in favor of THE Maize and Blue.

[MisterGalliaGuy2016]

Big Ten Final Standings
East (big boy division)
1. Michigan 13-0 (9-0) Big Ten Champions. Three years straight. Behind a punishing O Line that looks to win the Joe Moore award for a third consecutive season, two Heisman caliber RBs in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, and a hungry JJ McCarthy, Michigan runs the table again this season and the question turns from "Can Harbaugh get past the rival to the south?" To "Can Harbaugh win a national championship?" We shall see the answer to that, come January 2024.

2: TTDS 11-1 (8-1) Third Base, but can't get home again. Questions remain at the QB position which could spell trouble for Not Urban Meyer and company when they travel to Ann Arbor to face a renewed, confident Michigan team, which has seemingly turned the tide of the rivalry over the last two seasons. A loud minority will want him fired after that likely loss, but 11-1 and a sure playoff berth keeps his job nice and safe.....for now.

3. Penn State 10-2 (7-2) James Franklin's coaching is called into question even further as his Nittany Lions lose in embarrassing fashion at home to Michigan under the White Out and on the road to a team coached by a guy who was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. Tragic.

4. Little Brother 6-6 (4-5) Mel Tucker continues to be the most overpaid coach in college football. Many Spartan faithful want him fired after this season, which shows only marginal improvement from last year.

5: Maryland 6-6 (4-5) Taulia and company go bowling after another year of what ifs and close losses to bigger and better programs. Not much else to say. They're good enough to beat the bad teams, but not good enough to make the good or great teams too concerned.

6: Rutgers 4-8 (2-7) Unless Gavin Wimsatt turns into Vince Young, Rutgers won't threaten anyone other than the true bottom of the barrel teams in the country and they miss a bowl again.

7. Indiana 2-10 (0-9) It's Indiana and a pandemic hasn't turned the world upside down, which seems to be what it takes for them to field a solid team.

West (Group of 5 Division)

1. Illinois 10-3 (7-2) Big Ten Runner Up. Furious and hungry after a very controversial ending of their game in Ann Arbor last season, the Illini come out roaring early, but lose to Penn State and Iowa. Bielema has this team playing tough, physical football and they win the West.

2. Wisconsin 10-2 (7-2) A new perspective, a new mind, a new era begins in Madison with former Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell returning to the Big Ten, this time as a full time head coach. The results are immediate and promising, though not without growing pains, which are evident against his alma mater and against Illinois.

3. Nebraska 8-4 (6-3) The surprise of the West, led by Matt Rhule in his return to the college ranks. Losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois will be painful, but a late season win in Lincoln against the Hawkeyes has Memorial Stadium rocking well into the night.

4. Iowa 8-4 (6-3) Kirk Ferentz and his nepo-baby Brian continue to flounder on offense, while boasting a fearsome defense to keep them competitive and boring to watch. Michigan transfers Cade McNamara and Erick All help the offense to a point, but bland playcalling and a lack of elite skill position players keep the Hawkeyes as a good, not great team, which loses games it probably shouldn't.

5. Minnesota 3-9 (2-7) PJ Fleck is fired after this season as the Gophers have a brutal draw from the East and lose Mo Ibrahim. Losses to all rivals cement this.

6. Purdue 2-10 (2-7) Jeff Brohm's departure, along with the loss of Aidan O'Connell leaves this team one of the worst in the conference.

7. Northwestern 2-10 (0-9) It's Northwestern. No Indiana means no win for the second worst team in the conference. How Pat Fitzgerald still has his job is beyond me. I get that he's an alum, loved from his playing days and for his hard nosed personality, but the results just aren't there. Even Wake Forest has had more success, recently.

Big Ten will have 3 teams in the top 5, 4 teams in the top 12, 5 in the top 15, and 7 in the top 25.

So, Fitz no longer has his job. Harbaugh went from a likely 4 game suspension for buying a recruit a burger, to having that suspension at least temporarily rescinded. Northwestern may not win a game this year now.