BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP -- Well the Big Ten didn't bend its rules just to have Ohio State fall flat and not exploit the loophole to take another CFP appearance. The Wildcats are one of the biggest surprises in the Power 5 this year and they end up here on occasion. But it's hard to envision them holding serve with the Buckeyes for four quarters. The reduced spread pretty much dictates a play on the chalk.

We’ve only got five games of data to go by, not including the Buckeyes' 52-3 win at Northwestern last season. But Ohio State is on another planet of class. The thing that made me believe laying the points was a good idea began with the fast field at Lucas Oil Stadium. The talent gap and speed gap on a fast field with no weather will be noticeable on Saturday. Buckeyes get the cover.

BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME (from Indianapolis) -- According to multiple reports, at least one prominent starter on Ohio State's offense (not Justin Fields) and several others have tested positive for COVID and will miss Saturday’s game. The Nuts figure to be a bit rusty, too, having played just once since Nov. 21. Other than one trap-game hiccup vs. Michigan State, Northwestern's defense has been terrific. I'm not calling the upset -- although I probably will go throw a few dollars on the NW moneyline -- but do think the Cats hang fairly close here. Also love the Under 57 points.