The Big Ten has been known for elite running backs for years and years. From Mike Hart to Ron Dayne to Eddie George to Anthony Thompson to Archie Griffin to Alan Ameche and Howard Cassady in the '50s, the conference has produced some of college football’s top runners for generations. But what about this season?

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

10 Key Storylines to Watch for Week 9

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

The Big Ten Legends Division has to be one of the most competitive in college football. Michigan State sits atop the division with a 3-0 record in conference play, with Michigan, Nebraska and Iowa tied at 2-1.

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

Ohio State is expected to be one of the top coaching jobs open at the end of the season. Interim coach Luke Fickell has guided the Buckeyes to a 4-3 record, but this program expects to be contending for Big Ten titles. Ohio State has a young roster, along with the black cloud of a NCAA investigation and potential sanctions. Fickell's chances of keeping the full-time job in 2012 likely depend on winning the final five games this season. 

By Mitch Light (@AthlonMitch)

Here are previews and predictions for the 10 best college football games this weekend.

Michigan State has been the talk of the college football world this week after beating undefeated Wisconsin with an improbable Hail Mary pass on the game’s final play.

The greatest sport in the world is under assault from many different sides. Conference realignment talk has replaced conversation about who’s number one. Cheating coaches are ruining their schools’ reputations and jeopardizing future success. And players are succumbing to temptation out of anger because they feel exploited.

What a mess.

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

Athlon sums up a full slate of college football with the most important things to take away from this weekend.

Winners

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

10 Key Storylines to Watch for Week 8

By Steven Lassan (@AthlonSteven on Twitter)

At the midpoint of the 2011 season, it's time to take a look at the first half and predict how the second half will turn out in the Big Ten.

First-Half Awards