Big Ten's lone undefeated team – Michigan – tops Joe Christensen's conference rankings

BIG TEN POWER RANKINGS

1. Michigan (8-0, 5-0): Underrated QB Wilton Speight is a 6-6 version of Jake Rudock, with 13 TDs, and 3 INTs.

2. Ohio State (7-1, 4-1): Curtis Samuel is so dynamic, it's surprising the Buckeyes don't give him the ball more.

3. Wisconsin (6-2, 3-2): Concern from Nebraska game: Andrew Endicott's late-game kicking (missed FG, extra point).

4. Nebraska (7-1, 4-1): Nate Gerry picked off both Wisconsin quarterbacks: Alex Hornibrook and Bart Houston.

5. Penn State (6-2, 4-1): Saquon Barkley moved into the Big Ten rushing lead (888 yards) with his 207 against Purdue.

6. Northwestern (4-4, 3-2): This defense is clicking. The Wildcats held Indiana and Ohio State to a combined 38 points.

7. Iowa (5-3, 3-2): Had bye week to recover before facing Penn State, Michigan and Nebraska down the stretch.

8. Gophers (6-2, 3-2): Minnesota ranks fifth in the Big Ten and 21st nationally in total defense (342.8 yards).

9. Indiana (4-4, 2-3): Devine Redding, Tyler Natee and Zander Diamont all rushed for 100 yards against Maryland.

10. Maryland (5-3, 2-3): One win from bowl berth, remaining schedule goes: Michigan, Ohio State, Nebraska, Rutgers.

11. Michigan State (2-6, 0-5): Spartans will try to stop their first six-game losing streak since 1982 this week at Illinois.

12. Purdue (3-5, 1-4): Sophomore QB David Blough has three games this year with 30 or more completions.

13. Illinois (2-6, 1-4): Lovie Smith vehemently denied a report that he's miserable in first season in Champaign.

14. Rutgers (2-6, 0-5): Scarlet Knights had a bye after close loss at Minnesota and hope to upset Indiana this week.