Will Nebraska, Michigan, USC, and Wisconsin Make It to a Bowl? Big Ten Game Predictions

As we head into the final stretch of the 2024 college football season, the race for bowl eligibility in the Big Ten is heating up. Nebraska, Michigan, USC, and Wisconsin are all in the thick of the battle, with each team facing important matchups that will determine their postseason fate. Let’s break down the remaining games for these teams and predict whether they’ll secure a spot in the postseason.

Nebraska: The Road to Bowl Eligibility

Nebraska has been inconsistent this season but remains in the hunt for a bowl berth. The Cornhuskers need to win their final games to reach the six-win threshold required for bowl eligibility.

Key Matchups:

• Against Iowa: The Hawkeyes are always tough, and Nebraska will need a strong defensive performance to pull off a win here. Iowa’s offense has been shaky, but their defense is one of the best in the conference. Nebraska will need to capitalize on every scoring opportunity.
• Against Wisconsin: A win over Wisconsin could be the deciding factor in Nebraska’s bowl chase. If they can get past the Badgers, they’ll have a much clearer path to six wins.

Prediction: Nebraska’s bowl hopes hinge on their ability to take down teams like Iowa and Wisconsin. If their offense clicks and their defense holds up, they have a good chance of reaching a bowl. Projected outcome: Nebraska makes a bowl, with a 7-5 record.

Michigan: The Road to the College Football Playoff

Michigan, as one of the top teams in the country, has already secured its bowl eligibility but still has bigger aspirations. The Wolverines are looking to not only win the Big Ten Championship but also make a strong push for the College Football Playoff (CFP).

Key Matchups:

• Against Ohio State: The season-ending rivalry game against Ohio State will likely determine who wins the Big Ten East and advances to the Big Ten Championship. Michigan has been dominant all year, but Ohio State is just as strong. This game is crucial for their CFP hopes.
• Big Ten Championship: If Michigan gets past Ohio State, they will likely face a strong opponent from the Big Ten West, such as Iowa or Wisconsin. Winning the conference will give them a solid chance of securing a spot in the CFP.

Prediction: Michigan is a favorite to win the Big Ten and secure a high-ranking in the CFP. With an undefeated record heading into their rivalry game against Ohio State, they have a very strong chance of making a deep playoff run. Projected outcome: Michigan makes the CFP.

USC: Navigating the Big Ten Transition

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USC’s move to the Big Ten has been a major storyline this season, and while they have looked strong in some games, they still have a tough road ahead to bowl eligibility. The Trojans are working to adjust to their new conference, and their remaining games will be a test of their resilience.

Key Matchups:

• Against Penn State: Penn State has been one of the most solid teams in the Big Ten this year, and USC’s offense will need to be at its best to break through their defense. A win here would significantly improve USC’s chances of a bowl.
• Against Minnesota: USC will need to win games like this one to secure their bowl spot. Minnesota’s defense will provide a tough challenge, but USC’s explosive offense gives them the edge.

Prediction: USC has the talent to make a bowl, but they face a challenging road ahead in the Big Ten. If they can win crucial games like the one against Penn State, they’ll secure a bowl bid. Projected outcome: USC makes a bowl, finishing 7-5.

Wisconsin: A Solid Contender for Bowl Eligibility

Wisconsin has had a solid season but still needs to finish strong to ensure bowl eligibility. With a powerful running game and a defense that can hold its own, Wisconsin is a tough team to beat, but they’ll need to take down some strong opponents to lock in their postseason appearance.

Key Matchups:

• Against Nebraska: This game will likely be one of the most important for both teams’ bowl hopes. Wisconsin has the edge in terms of consistency, but Nebraska can pull off an upset if their offense gets going. A win here could give Wisconsin the sixth win they need.
• Against Iowa: Iowa’s defense is always tough, but Wisconsin’s running game has the potential to wear them down. If the Badgers can control the clock and impose their will on the ground, they’ll have a good shot at winning.

Prediction: Wisconsin is well-coached and has the talent to earn a bowl bid. They should finish with a winning record, especially if they handle the pressure in key matchups like Nebraska and Iowa. Projected outcome: Wisconsin makes a bowl, finishing 7-5.

Conclusion

The Big Ten conference is as competitive as ever, and the remaining games for Nebraska, Michigan, USC, and Wisconsin will be critical in determining their postseason fates. While Michigan is poised for a potential College Football Playoff appearance, Nebraska, USC, and Wisconsin still have work to do to secure bowl eligibility.

• Nebraska: Needs to win key games like Iowa and Wisconsin to make it to a bowl.
• Michigan: Likely headed to the CFP, barring any upsets.
• USC: Must navigate tough Big Ten matchups to become bowl eligible.
• Wisconsin: Should secure a bowl berth with a strong finish to the season.

As these teams close out the regular season, expect plenty of drama and excitement in the Big Ten as every game counts toward securing a spot in the postseason.