2008 Big Ten Football Preview: Part 2

The Big Ten Conference has a great deal of solid middle-tier football teams for 2008. The quality of the mid-tier teams in this league look comparable to those teams in "tougher" conferences such as the SEC and the Pac-Ten. Many of the Big Ten mid-tier teams can easily become bowl eligible.

Here is a detailed look at the Big Ten's mid tier teams for 2008.

5. Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois, upon first look, look to be in trouble for 2008, but this is certainly not the case. They lost a stunning 24 lettermen over the offseason, but they should be able to remain competitive. Without Rashard Mendenhall, the Illini don't have a proven running back, but their quarterback has certainly proved himself. Isiah "Juice" Williams should become one of the best dual threat quarterbacks in the game this year. I think that Illinois could win seven games if they hit all their marks to begin the season.

6. Iowa Hawkeyes

You may wonder why Iowa is so high up on my list for 2008, but I really like their chances. Without Ohio State or Michigan on their schedule, they should have a favorable schedule to work with. Though they have a running back situation to figure out, I am a big fan of their defensive line and their efficient defense. In addition, coach Kirk Ferentz is one of the best coaches in the game. I wouldn't be surprised to see Iowa finish as high as fourth in the Big Ten this season.

7. Michigan State Spartans

Second year coach Mark Dantonio should have a better season in Big Ten conference play this season. I really like the chances of quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Javon Ringer breaking out and having big time seasons this year in their senior seasons. Without Minnesota on their schedule, the Spartans are going to miss out on a free win. I believe Dantonio and the Spartans are talented enough to qualify for a bowl game this season, however.

8. Northwestern Wildcats

In the past five years, the Wildcats have not been THAT bad, accumulating a total of six wins multiple times. I am a big fan of their QB CJ Bacher: he is a tough, smart passer who will lead the Wildcats off-tempo attack. Look for the Wildcats to finish with at least five wins this season.

9. Purdue Boilermakers

Curtis Painter is the best quarterback in the league, in my opinion, and this Purdue offense will fly high for another season. However, their defense is not the strongest. I like Joe Tiller as a coach, and I think that if things break his way, he could have a bowl-eligible team on his hands. Don't expect more than six wins out of this mid-tier Big Ten Squad.

Best of the Rest:
10. Indiana
11. Minnesota