Oregon's Big Ten Football Journey and Indiana's Championship Chances

Indiana's Path to the Big Ten Championship Game

In the Big Ten, Indiana has a series of scenarios that could lead them to join Oregon at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 7. If Indiana finishes 9-0 in conference play, they are in. As the top seed, they would secure their place with an unblemished record. However, if Oregon also finishes 9-0, the seeding would be determined by the highest cumulative conference winning percentage of all opponents. This adds an extra layer of complexity to their championship hopes.

Another scenario sees IU getting the No. 2 seed. This occurs when Oregon is 9-0 and the Hoosiers are 8-1, with the lone loss coming against Purdue. By beating Ohio State, which previously defeated Penn State, IU holds the best record among games involving these three teams. It's a strategic position that could give them an edge in the race for the championship.

Indiana as a 'Maybe' for the Big Ten Championship Game

In a particular situation, Oregon is 9-0, IU and Penn State are both 8-1 (with losses to Ohio State), and Ohio State is 7-2. Here, the Ducks are the top seed, and the other participant will be decided by the highest cumulative conference winning percentage of all opponents for IU and Penn State. It's a tense situation where every game and every result matters.

Indiana's Missed Opportunities in the Big Ten Championship Game

If Oregon is 9-0 and IU loses to Ohio State, with Ohio State defeating Michigan the following week, the Buckeyes would secure the berth based on beating IU and Penn State. Similarly, if IU loses to both Ohio State and Purdue, and Oregon, Ohio State, and Penn State all finish 8-1, IU is out. These scenarios highlight the importance of each game and the fine margins in the conference standings.

When all four teams are 8-1, and IU's loss is against Ohio State, the Buckeyes and Ducks get the berths. And if Oregon and Penn State both finish 8-1 while IU and Ohio State both finish 7-2, the Hoosiers are out. The competition is fierce, and every team must perform at their best to have a chance at the championship.

Indiana Football Schedule

On November 23, Indiana faces Ohio State at noon on Fox. Then, on November 30, they take on Purdue at a time yet to be determined. These games will be crucial in determining their championship fate.

Ohio State Football Schedule

On November 23, Ohio State hosts Indiana at noon on Fox. The following week, on November 30, they play against Michigan also at noon on Fox. These matchups will have a significant impact on the conference standings.

Oregon Football Schedule

On November 30, Oregon takes on Washington at a time yet to be announced. This game will be a key test for their championship aspirations.

Penn State Football Schedule

On November 23, Penn State travels to Minnesota at 3:30 p.m. On November 30, they host Maryland at 3:30 p.m. These games will contribute to their overall conference record.

When is the Big Ten Championship Game?

The Big Ten championship game will take place at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis and will be broadcast on Fox.