The Big Ten championship participants based on the current standings are straightforward, with Oregon and Indiana both holding on to undefeated records. While it’s unlikely the Ducks will lose, with only a home game against 6-5 Washington remaining, the Hoosiers have a less navigable road.

Penn State's chances of making the Big Ten championship game are low, but the Nittany Lions are still firmly in the Playoff mix.

Yes, Penn State couldn’t close the deal against Ohio State at home. A one-possession loss to one of the most talented teams in the country is not something to dwell on. So, let’s dwell instead on what James Franklin’s team has done in its other six Big Ten games.

Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter has 17½ tackles for loss, the second-most in the FBS, and eight sacks to match the third-most in the Big Ten. He has a challenging matchup this week with Minnesota left tackle Aireontae Ersery across from him in a battle of projected first-round NFL draft picks.

With Penn State’s strong push for a spot in the College Football Playoff still a couple of wins from completion, the biggest roadblock to a bid for the Nittany Lions in this favorable final third of their schedule has arrived: a trip to Minnesota.