big ten power poll
1. Iowa: Yes, the Badgers beat Iowa Jan. 5. But winning at Ohio State warrants the Hawkeyes at the top spot for now.
2. Wisconsin: Bloomington is still a tough place to play, as the Badgers were reminded this week.
3. Michigan State: The Spartans haven't made anything look easy — but credit Michigan State for getting it done.
4. Michigan: Who would have thought the Wolverines would get off to a 4-0 start without Mitch McGary?
5. Gophers: With the signature victory they had been seeking, things are beginning to look optimistic in the Twin Cities.
6. Ohio State: The current state of affairs can only be described as a free fall for the Buckeyes, who have now lost three straight.
7. Indiana: To rush the court or not to rush the court? The Hoosiers decided yes after taking down Wisconsin.
8. Purdue: The Boilermakers need to learn how to hit free throws (worst in the Big Ten at 65.9 percent).
9. Illinois: A three-game losing streak, and the road ahead (Michigan State, Ohio State, Indiana) doesn't look any more friendly.
10. Penn State: The Nittany Lions haven't had an easy schedule so far, but two of their five losses came by just three points.
11. Northwestern: Chris Collins earned his first victory in an ugly but effective stunner over in-state rival Illinois.
12. Nebraska: With no wins to bolster confidence, the Cornhuskers get the Buckeyes for the second time in four games.
Amelia Rayno