Northwestern
2006 Record- 4-8
2006 ATS Record- 5-6

Offense: 8 Returning Starters
The Wildcats are the only team in the Big 10 to consistently use two quarterbacks and that system will be in place again in 2007. Senior QB C.J. Bacher has the strong arm, while sophomore QB Mike Kafka can hurt teams with his running ability. The top two backs also return.

Defense: 8 Returning Starters
This unit returns every key player from a year ago and has some potential. They have size and quickness up front, as well as speedy corners to defend the pass. Northwestern could be the surprise team of the Big 10.

Schedule:
The non-conference isn’t too bad and it’s realistic to think the Wildcats could open up 3-0 before taking on Ohio St. The conference schedule is rough, but ending the year with Illinois and Indiana makes a bowl berth a possibility.
2007 Predicted Record: 7-5 (4-4)


Indiana
2006 Record- 5-7
2006 ATS Record- 5-6

Offense: 9 Returning Starters
With the loss of IU’s head coach, look for a very motivated Hoosier team in 2007. QB Kellen Lewis can beat you with his legs or his arm, while WR James Hardy is as good as it gets. Being more consistent and having less three-and-outs is the main focus this season.

Defense: 7 Returning Starters
The defense has been horrible the past few years and shows no signs of being any better in 2007. Seven starters return on a defense that allowed over 30 points per game last year.

Schedule:
The Hoosiers miss Michigan and Ohio St this year, but have conference road games at Iowa, at Wisconsin and at Michigan St. Until that defense improves, another losing season is likely.
2007 Predicted Record: 5-7 (2-6)

Michigan St
2006 Record- 4-8
2006 ATS Record- 3-9

Offense: 6 Returning Starters
Losing QB Drew Stanton and the top 3 receivers from 2006 is an obvious blow, but with new head coach Mark Dantonio taking over, don’t expect the Spartans to completely fall off the map. The running game will be one of the best in the Big 10 with Javon Ringer and Jehuu Caulcrick leading the way. Replacement QB Brian Hoyer also has a rocket arm, and will surprise some teams with his accuracy.

Defense: 6 Returning Starters
MSU’s defense was a big problem last year. They gave up the big play through the air too often, and let opponents run all over them. Giving up over 30 points per game in Big 10 play has to be improved on if the Spartans want a winning record.

Schedule:
Realistically, the Spartans could lose their last five games, so racking up the wins in September and October will be key. With such a tough schedule, a winning record is unlikely.
2007 Predicted Record: 5-7 (2-6)

Illinois
2006 Record- 2-10
2006 ATS Record- 5-6

Offense: 8 Returning Starters
Ron Zook thinks this is the year of the Illini. His recruits are in place and with speedy QB Juice Williams returning, no one will take Illinois lightly this season. Williams needs to work on his accuracy as he completed less than 40% of his passes in 2006. All in all, eight starters return on a unit that showed some potential towards the end of last season and could surprise some teams this year.

Defense: 9 Returning Starters
The majority of starters return, which will help the Illini’s chances of a winning season. There is depth up front as well as in the secondary, so don’t be surprised to see Zook go with some younger players if his experienced ones aren’t getting the job done.

Schedule:
Opening against Missouri will be a true test, as well as opening conference play at Indiana, considering the Illini are 1-13 SU on the road over the last 3 seasons. A winning record is unlikely, but getting 4-6 wins will be considered a huge improvement from its 2-10 record last season.
2007 Predicted Record: 5-7 (2-6)

Minnesota
2006 Record- 6-7
2006 ATS Record- 6-5-1

Offense: 6 Returning Starters
The Gophers offense will have a new look with a new head coach, offensive coordinator and QB. The run game will be there with star Amir Pinnix, however, Minnesota loses their top 3 receivers from 2006, so an adjustment period is expected.

Defense: 9 Returning Starters
The second tier of the Big 10 conference all have something in common; bad defenses. Minnesota, even with the return on nine starters, will have a difficult time slowing down anyone in 2007.

Schedule:
Starting the year 3-0 is a possibility; however the conference schedule is very hard, making a winning season unlikely.
2007 Predicted Record: 5-7 (1-7)

Next week, we examine the Pac 10. Don't miss it!!
 

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