1. Michigan State (11-3 last year)

Beware. Boise State's past three opening victims: Oregon, Virginia Tech, Georgia.

2. Ohio State (6-7)

Urban Meyer says Braxton Miller is biggest upgrade, not him.

3. Wisconsin (11-3)

Northern Iowa no patsy; at No. 7 in FCS, ranked higher than No. 12 Badgers.

4. Michigan (11-2)

Even a competitive loss to Alabama would be big win for Wolverines.

5. Nebraska (9-4)

QB Taylor Martinez's improved throwing motion is hot topic in Lincoln.

6. Purdue (7-6)

Somehow found room for both Eastern Kentucky AND Eastern Michigan.

7. Northwestern (6-7)

Wildcats open with Syracuse, which comes to TCF Bank Stadium in three weeks.

8. Penn State (9-4)

Names on the back of the jerseys? Paterno Era is over for sure.

9. Iowa (7-6)

Two new coordinators take over in opener at Soldier Field vs. Northern Illinois.

10. Illinois (7-6)

Toledo Tim Beckman now in charge, he'll face familiar MAC foe Western Michigan.

11. Minnesota (3-9)

Next three games are all at home; chance to build momentum for Big Ten.

12. Indiana (1-11)

Hoosiers are 3-0 against Indiana State, with 30-point margin or bigger each time.