Illinois’ Mason Monheim (43) tackles Ohio State’s Braxton Miller (5) during the game at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Ill. on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2013. The Illini lost, 60-35. By Dan Escalona | 47 minutes agoConventional college football logic over the last decade suggests the Big Ten is a conference wallowing in mediocrity — especially when compared to the SEC, Pac 12 and Big 12. This logic is so entrenched in college football thought among fans and pundits that it is seldom questioned. With what has occurred over the last eight months, this mindset is beginning to be dismantled as the conference is undergoing a tremendous transformation away from its recent national reputation. Now, led by the seemingly invincible Ohio State, the Big Ten is entering a new era of prominence and prosperity. Prior to January 2015, the Big Ten was in the midst of a 12-year national championship drought and clinging to an unremarkable 13-15 record in BCS bowl games. The Big Ten’s poor stature among the five major conferences was ultimately punctuated by two high-profile controversies; a moderately embarrassing one at Ohio State and a downright ugly one at Penn State. Both scandals marred the esteemed prestige of two banner programs, of two respected head coaches and of a premier collegiate athletic conference. …
Continue Reading: A new era of prominence for Big Ten football has arrived
