Around The Big Ten Recap: Week Nine

Story posted November 2, 2015 in CommRadio, Sports by Mike Wszolek

Although there were only five games around the Big Ten on Saturday, they were packed with action and excitement. Two top 15 teams were in action, as one team took care of business easily while one needed a goal line stand to hold on. 

Maryland at No. 10 Iowa: Iowa 31-15
The No. 10 team in the country looked like the No. 10 team in the country once again on Saturday afternoon. The Iowa Hawkeyes defeated Maryland by 16, as the defense was stellar once again. Other than a rushing touchdown, the Hawkeyes defense stood their ground and played an exceptional game. The other touchdown was given up to the talented Will Likely for Maryland. The Iowa defense shut down Perry Hills, who threw three interceptions. Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard did what he had to do on the offensive side to help the Hawkeyes to victory. The Iowa defense is extremely talented, and with their remaining schedule, they have a very good chance to finish the season undefeated. The Hawkeyes will travel to Indiana next week while a struggling Maryland will take on a hot Wisconsin team.

No. 15 Michigan at Minnesota: Michigan 29-26
The fans in Minneapolis were fired up on Saturday night when their Golden Gophers team battled the No. 15 team in the country. Most people thought that this was going to be an easy win for Michigan, but the Golden Gophers made it extremely close. The biggest concern for Michigan was when quarterback Jake Rudock left the game in the third quarter. Backup quarterback Wilton Speight came in and did a decent job, throwing for a touchdown. Michigan coach, Jim Harbaugh, said he “thinks” Rudock will be available for their game next week against Rutgers. Minnesota’s running game was strong and evenly spread out. Three different running backs had at least 11 carries, but Rodney Smith led the way for the Gophers. Minnesota had a chance to win or tie on the last play of the game. With a decision to make, Minnesota interim head coach, Tracy Claeys, decided to go for the win. Minnesota had the ball on the 1-yard line and opted to try a quarterback sneak. Michigan stood strong and stopped the Gophers on the goal line to win the game. After a tough loss, Minnesota will have to take on an Ohio State team that is coming off of a bye, while Michigan will gladly head back home to take on Rutgers.

Nebraska at Purdue: Purdue 55-45
The 1-6 Boilermakers improved to 2-6 on the season by defeating Nebraska 55-45. It has been a dismal season for Nebraska, who let a mediocre team put up 55 on its defense. Purdue quarterback David Blough lit up the Nebraska defense, throwing for four touchdowns and over 270 yards. On the other side, it was a rough day for Nebraska quarterback Ryker Fyfe. Fyfe threw for four touchdowns as well, but also had four interceptions. Purdue’s Anthony Brown picked off Fyfe three times. This was a much-needed win for Purdue, who had not won since September 12th. Nebraska has lost their six games by a combined 23 points. They will try to rebound at home next week against an undefeated Michigan State team. Purdue will look to make it two in a row when they host Illinois.

Also around the Big Ten, Wisconsin routed Rutgers, moving to 7-2 on the season.

Mike Wszolek is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email mewszolek@gmail.com.