A Big Ten tussle

The first year of splitting into two divisions has brought new levels of parity to the Big Ten. With three weeks remaining, there are still about 20 possible matchups for the inaugural Big Ten title game on Dec. 3 in Indianapolis. Here is a look at the contenders:

Legends Division

Michigan State (4-1, 7-2)

Spartans appear to be in the driver’s seat, but have a pair of dangerous road games left at Iowa and Northwestern.

Nebraska (3-2, 7-2)

Message to Cornhuskers: Don’t ever count on Northwestern or other teams to behave like Iowa State or Kansas.

Michigan (7-2, 3-2)

Wolverines have chance for a big finish, with Nebraska and Ohio State at home, but need to survive at Illinois first.

Iowa (6-3, 3-2)

If Hawkeyes can knock off Michigan State at home, there could be a four-way tie for Legends lead.

Northwestern (4-5, 2-3)

Wildcats need to beat Rice and Minnesota to become bowl eligible, then have chance to play spoiler vs. MSU.

Leaders Division

Penn State (8-1, 5-0)

After horrifying charges against ex-assistant, and firing of Joe Paterno, Lions finish season with Nebraska, at OSU and at Wisconsin.

Wisconsin (7-2, 3-2)

Badgers didn’t live up to their hype, but could still pull out division win in Nov. 26 showdown vs. Penn State.

Ohio State (6-3, 3-2)

Return of suspended running back Dan Herron in Game 7 vs. Illinois seems to have made a difference.

Illinois (6-3, 2-3)

A win in the snow at Penn State, which turned out to be Paterno’s final game, would have made Illini a contender.

Purdue (4-5, 2-3)

Boilers have been blown out last two weeks, but have chance at redemption with Ohio State at home.