The Big Ten season reaches its halfway point with the leaders becoming more consistent. But the unpredictability of the Big Ten, especially on the road, leaves the conference title up for grabs.
Michigan State
The Spartans have a slim lead in what has become a three-team race to the end of the season. After losing to Wisconsin 77-64, the Spartans dominated their opponents in seven of their next eight games. The majority of those games, however, were at home, meaning Tuesday's game in Champaign should be a strong indicator of the Spartans' success.
Illinois
Despite tough losses to Northwestern and Wisconsin, the Illini find themselves in the thick of the Big Ten title race. Illinois' ability to lie low while moving up in the standings makes the Illini one of the more formidable teams in the conference. A true test comes today when Illinois takes on the Spartans. While sophomore guard Dee Brown struggles, players like Luther Head and Deron Williams have taken the lead.
Purdue
It is not the big teams that are keeping the Boilermakers from being one of the surprise contenders in the Big Ten. After tallying wins against Wisconsin and MSU at home and Illinois on the road, Purdue dropped tough games against Indiana and Penn State.
Iowa
Unpredictable Iowa has never found consistency since Big Ten play started. The Hawkeyes have not beaten any strong opponent in the conference. Iowa may, however, take advantage of having Wisconsin and Illinois coming to its court.
Indiana
Early struggles on the road could be solved when Indiana returns home to face many of the opponents who beat them earlier in the season, including a season-ending game against the Badgers.
Michigan
The Wolverines are still within striking distance of finishing respectably in the Big Ten. At this point, a Big Ten championship isn't likely, but improving their standings for a March bid is.
Northwestern
The Wildcats provided spoilers to top-ranked teams Wisconsin and Illinois, despite an otherwise mediocre season.
Penn State
Penn State has failed to find any consistency and has suffered its share of embarrassing losses, including a 80-37 drumming by Illinois.
Ohio State
The Buckeyes' power in football has not translated to the basketball court as they try to stay out of the Big Ten basement.
Minnesota
Despite having Big Ten freshman phenom forward Kris Humphries, Minnesota still searches for a conference win.
