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The third week of the college football season marks the beginning of Big Ten conference play across the country, featuring a potential upset alert against a national title contender and the return of a familiar face to Big Ten territory.
While this weekend offers some standout games on the Big Ten slate, the majority of the schedule appears to be relatively uneventful.
Michigan State's prime-time trip to South Bend to face Notre Dame and Maryland's home game against James Franklin and Virginia Tech are the main attractions on the Big Ten docket. Additionally, USC's visit to Rutgers on Saturday afternoon officially kicks off Big Ten play for the Trojans.
However, this is the final weekend of non-conference play for most Big Ten teams, and the matchups are largely favorable, with several FCS opponents on the schedule.
Below are the staff's selections for games involving Big Ten teams this weekend. For Penn State-specific predictions, including final score and player of the game, check out our dedicated picks.
| Game | Kevin | Paul | Chris |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon vs. Portland State | Oregon | Oregon | Oregon |
| Ohio State vs. Kent State | Ohio State | Ohio State | Ohio State |
| Minnesota vs. Akron | Minnesota | Minnesota | Minnesota |
| Wisconsin vs. Eastern Michigan | Wisconsin | Wisconsin | Wisconsin |
| Illinois vs. Southern Illinois | Illinois | Illinois | Illinois |
| Rutgers vs. USC | USC | USC | USC |
| Michigan vs. UTEP | Michigan | Michigan | Michigan |
| Indiana vs. Western Kentucky | Indiana | Indiana | Indiana |
| Iowa vs. Northern Iowa | Iowa | Iowa | Iowa |
| Nebraska vs. North Dakota | Nebraska | Nebraska | Nebraska |
| Washington vs. Eastern Washington | Washington | Washington | Washington |
| Michigan State at Notre Dame | Notre Dame | Notre Dame | Notre Dame |
| Northwestern vs. Colorado | Colorado | Colorado | Colorado |
| Maryland vs. Virginia Tech | Virginia Tech | Virginia Tech | Virginia Tech |
| UCLA vs. Purdue | UCLA | UCLA | UCLA |
Key Analysis
Kevin shared his thoughts on Michigan State at Notre Dame: The Spartans have shown promise with two comfortable wins to start the season, but the challenge intensifies with a road game against the Irish. Kevin expects Michigan State to compete early but is eager to see how they perform in the second half, referencing Wisconsin's struggles against Notre Dame in Week 1.
Paul weighed in on Oregon vs. Portland State: This game will reveal the Ducks' true identity. After dominating lesser opponents last year, any struggle here could indicate a step back.
Chris analyzed Maryland vs. Virginia Tech: In James Franklin's quasi-return to the Big Ten, he faces an underrated Maryland team led by talented quarterback Malik Washington, who has thrown for 533 yards, 3 touchdowns, and no interceptions. However, Virginia Tech's Ethan Grunkemeyer has looked confident, coming off a career-high 327 yards. Chris picks the Hokies at home for Franklin's return to the conference.
Paul also commented on Maryland vs. Virginia Tech: He is eager to see Franklin's first game against the Big Ten since leaving Penn State, as it will show whether he is an exceptional coach or benefited from the conference's resources.
Chris discussed Rutgers vs. USC: This game is intriguing solely for its implications for Penn State. It could feature the best and worst opponents Penn State will face this season. USC appears to be a sleeper Big Ten title contender, while Rutgers seems to be sleepwalking. Penn State fans should watch to gauge USC's strength and Rutgers' weakness.
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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Big Ten football staff picks for Week 3.
Originally reported by yahoo.