Big Ten Week 8: Michigan Falls, Illinois Shines, and Maryland Upsets USC
JR Rhoades
Illinois defeated Michigan 21-7.
Week 8 in the Big Ten featured surprises and significant storylines. Michigan’s playoff hopes were dealt a crushing blow as they faltered against Illinois, who continue to exceed expectations this season with a powerful run game and disciplined defense. USC, on the other hand, remains at a crossroads, struggling to find answers after a last-minute loss to Maryland, leaving their season teetering.
Teams like Indiana are emerging as unexpected threats, dismantling Nebraska in a dominant showing, while Wisconsin’s defense continues to impress with their stifling performances. Despite their strong play, programs like Illinois and Indiana still aren’t receiving the national respect they deserve, as they quietly rise in the ranks while others stumble.
UCLA 35, Rutgers 32
This matchup was a tough one for Rutgers, as they fell just short against UCLA. Despite three rushing touchdowns from Kyle Monunga, Rutgers struggled with key decisions, including two failed two-point conversions. Rutgers rallied late, but their inability to capitalize earlier, coupled with injuries on defense, left them unable to overcome UCLA’s balanced offensive attack.
Michigan State 32, Iowa 20
Michigan State handed Iowa a tough road loss, bolstered by the efficient play of QB Aidan Childs, who threw for over 200 yards. Iowa’s offense struggled behind Cade McNamara, who threw a costly interception, and Michigan State’s special teams, including kicker Jonathan Kim, helped seal the game. Iowa’s defensive lapses, particularly in tackling, were uncharacteristic and contributed to their downfall.
Maryland 29, USC 28
In an upset, Maryland overcame a USC team that controlled most of the game. Billy Edwards Jr. threw the game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter, and despite a strong performance from USC’s Miller Moss, Maryland’s playmakers, including Ty Felton and Caden Prather, stepped up when it mattered most. USC’s inability to close out games continues to haunt them.
Oregon 35, Purdue 0
Oregon dominated Purdue on both sides of the ball, shutting them out in a lopsided contest. Purdue’s offense, which had shown promise in previous weeks, was unable to get anything going against Oregon’s stout defense. Meanwhile, Oregon faced no difficulties adjusting to the Big Ten and showed their strength, especially with their rushing game and offensive efficiency.
Wisconsin 23, Northwestern 3
Wisconsin continued to showcase its defensive prowess, limiting Northwestern to just three points. Northwestern, coming off a high-scoring game the previous week, struggled to get anything going against a Wisconsin defense that has been one of the most effective in the conference over the last few weeks. Wisconsin’s run game, led by Taiwi Walker, added to Northwestern’s woes.
Indiana 56, Nebraska 7
Indiana cruised past Nebraska in a blowout, thanks to efficient quarterback play from Curtis Rourke and backup Taven Jackson. Indiana’s ground game was unstoppable, while Nebraska struggled behind true freshman QB Dylan Raiola, who threw multiple interceptions. Nebraska’s inability to execute in key moments, including a fumble on fourth down, compounded their issues.
Illinois 21, Michigan 7
Illinois continued their impressive season with a dominant win over Michigan. Despite only throwing for eighty yards, Illinois controlled the game with a strong running attack led by Josh McCray and solid defense. Michigan’s offense, led by Jack Tuttle, struggled throughout, only managing one touchdown. Illinois capitalized on Michigan’s inefficiency and further cemented themselves as a top team in the conference.
Week 8 highlighted key performances and struggles for several Big Ten teams as they gear up for the second half of the season.
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