Several games jump off the page in the Big 10 this week.
Four games are within five points or less against the spread, and two more feature double-digit spreads, but showcase top-25 teams.
This is a good week to pay attention to the Big 10, since there will likely be some surprises in store for college football fans in week 12.
Here are two games we’ll keep an eye on this weekend. Last week’s betting guide for each major college football conference went 3-7 and was 0-2 in the Big 10. Overall for the season, the betting guides have been 11-9 in the Big 10 and 56-50 overall in the power-five conferences.
Michigan State (+13) at Ohio State
We believe bettors are getting good value with the Spartans at almost two touchdowns.
The Buckeyes really haven’t done much this season and this number is set purely on people anticipating Ohio State to break loose against the Spartans. Sure, Michigan State hasn’t done much either, but we believe it will play up to its competition.
We saw that during the win at Michigan (albeit that shouldn’t have been a win), and we’re betting on seeing that again this week.
It appears Connor Cook will play, giving Michigan State a solid weapon at the quarterback position. The Spartans can do enough to slow down Ohio State’s running game, making this a game that should be within single digits in the fourth quarter. — Go against the chalk with Michigan State
Illinois (+5) at Minnesota
Count us as people who haven’t been impressed with Minnesota this season.
The Golden Gophers covered last week against Iowa, but that defense did little to slow down the Hawkeyes. And we’re guessing that same offense that played well last weeek won’t show up this week against the Fighting Illini.
Don’t look now, but Illinois is only a game away from being bowl eligible. That will motivate the Fighting Illini in this game, especially since many were dismissing Illinois in the preseason with the turmoil occurring in the athletic department.
Illinois only had an over/under of wins at 3.5 before the season began. The expectations were low, but Illinois has done well considering the circumstances. We believe that will continue this week against an overvalued Minnesota team. — Go against the chalk with Illinois
Other Big 10 games
Rutgers (-5) at Army
Purdue at Iowa (-22)
Indiana at Maryland (-3)
Michigan (-4) at Penn State
Northwestern at Wisconsin (-10)
