Sunday was always going to be an important game. Michigan State has been the premier program in the entire conference over the last 20+ years and the road to the Big Ten title often goes through them. This year is no different. They were the preseason No. 1 ranked team and despite some early struggles against a tough slate, they have recovered to solidify themselves in the top 10. They are already out in front of the conference at 5-0, but they have played four home games so far.
Purdue, meanwhile, has seen its dreams of a second consecutive Big Ten title die on the road.