In Week 1, the Big Ten drew universal praise for its strong showing in non-conference games. Big Ten teams went 10-2 in non-conference matchups, with Michigan (over Florida) and Maryland (over Texas) turning in arguably the most impressive performances.
Rutgers and Purdue — the two teams universally picked to finish in the basement of their respective Big Ten divisions this summer — showed promise by competing well against Top 25 powers (RU lost to Washington; Purdue fell to Louisville).
Week 2 was a mixed bag.
The good: Penn State took care of business, rolling by in-state rival Pittsburgh, 33-14.