The first ever Big Ten Championship Game will pit the Leaders Division winner, the Wisconsin Badgers (10-2, 6-2 Big Ten), against the Legends Division winner, the Michigan State Spartans (10-2, 7-1 Big Ten), next Saturday night at the Lucas Oil Dome in Indianapolis. The game will be a rematch of the teams' epic October 22 contest, won by the Spartans 37-31 on a last second Hail Mary pass.
Michigan State will look to win the inaugural title game behind the play of their defense and their quarterback, as the Spartans rushing attack ranked last in the Big Ten. Michigan State ranked first in the conference, and third in the country, defensively, allowing just 266.7 yards per game. Kirk Cousin played extremely well under center, completing 64 percent of his throws for 2,735 yards and 21 touchdowns, with just six interceptions.
Wisconsin is of course fueled by their high-powered offense. The Badgers were first in the Big Ten in that category, gaining 477.1 yards per game. Quarterback Russell Wilson is the nation's most efficient passer, and if he doesn't beat you, running back Montee Ball likely will. Ball led the conference in rushing at 135.2 yards per game, amassing an astounding 34 touchdowns, just five away from tying the NCAA record.
For more news and notes on the Badgers, be sure to follow SB Nation's Wisconsin blog Bucky's 5th Quarter. For all your Spartans needs, visit SB Nation's Michigan State blog The Only Colors.