Every team in the Big Ten faces a crucial stretch in 2016. It may make the difference in a program’s bid to escape the division basement, to reach bowl eligibility or contend for the College Football Playoff. But for all 14 teams, a make-or-break period exists.
So to help you map your fall, this week, we’re identifying and analyzing those pivotal points around the conference.
Up next is Michigan State.
Toughest stretch: Weeks 3 through 7 (at Notre Dame, Wisconsin, at Indiana, BYU, Northwestern)
Why: Odd, isn’t it, that the Spartans’ most difficult run does not include East Division powers Michigan or Ohio State, who visit Spartan Stadium in weeks 9 and 12, respectively?