Survive a loaded Big Ten East and you're going to be in prime position for a spot in this year's College Football Playoff.
According to one analyst, that won't be Michigan or Michigan State.
CBSSports.com's Jerry Palm has the Wolverines and Spartans on the outside looking in when it comes to this year's CFP, as well as the New Year's Six bowls.
Palm has Michigan headed to the Gator Bowl (Jacksonville, Fla.) to face Texas A&M on Dec. 31, and Michigan State off to the Ctirus Bowl (Orlando, Fla.) to face Auburn on Jan.