Simpson: Big Ten a big dud in bowls
“We’re proud to represent the Big Ten.”
So said Northwestern football coach Pat Fitzgerald this season -repeatedly. Time and time again, the Wildcats’ coach praised Big Ten football, lauding the conference in which he’s been both player and coach.
Fitzgerald has told his share of fibs this season – calling Kirk Ferentz, coach of the 23-hour lockdown Iowa Hawkeyes, one of the best coaches in the country comes to mind – but this might be his biggest.
Because quite simply, the Big Ten has fallen behind.
(One moment for the hate-mongering to subside)
Yes, I know the Big Ten is sacred to millions of Midwesterners, who remember the glory days of Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes and believe “three yards and a cloud of dust,” is a proper way to play football. But it recent years, the conference has been surpassed by the high-powered offenses of the Big 12, the speed and athleticism of the SEC and the quality of play in the Pac 10.
Don’t believe me? Take seven hours and watch the footage of the 2007 and 2008 BCS championship games. Unless you’re an Ohio State fan. In that case, I’d just grind your teeth instead.
dailynorthwestern.com
1/15/09
