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Last week's Game of the Week (Michigan at Ohio State) was a great game with multiple lead changes and intensity from both sides. There were also some great games around the conference including Minnesota at Wisconsin and the upset of the week with Nebraska beating Michigan State in East Lansing. Once again, the conference race is still tied at the top and the second tier has inched even closer. With that, let's look at the Game of the Week:
Game Of The Week:
Michigan State at Michigan: The Game of the Week will take place on Sunday between the Michigan State Spartans and the Michigan Wolverines. The first matchup between these two teams was also selected as the Game of the Week a few weeks ago, making this the first repeat of the season. Interestingly enough, there are many similarities between this matchup and the first. Both teams are tied atop the conference and the winner will be in the driver's seat to win the conference title. Michigan won the first matchup, but both teams are coming off some rough stretches. Arguably, more pressure is on the Spartans to win this one considering they have the tougher schedule remaining after the game. However, the winner has to be considered the odds on favorite to at least grab a share of the title. The excitement and coverage will be incredible for this game and it could easily be the game of the year for the Big Ten this season. This is Michigan's 5th appearance in the Game of the Week this season and Michigan State's 3rd appearance this season.
Honorable Mention:
Wisconsin at Iowa: This was a great game the first time around and there's no reason to think it will be any different this time. Both teams are battling to get into position for the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments. Along with this, both teams still have a slim, but outside shot at the title. The winner should still hang on to those slim odds while the loser will be dropped out of contention.
Minnesota at Ohio State: Many are going to look at this and underrate the implications of this game. The Buckeyes are trending up and will be playing at home, but Minnesota beat OSU earlier this season and are fighting for a tourney bid. Both teams have a lot to gain from winning this one. For the Gophers, they are getting to the point where they need to start winning. This is a big opportunity to gain some breathing room.