Big Ten Football Power Rankings: Week 5 edition

Sep 26, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) scrambles with the ball as San Diego State Aztecs defensive lineman Noble Hall (95) pressures during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated San Diego State 37-21. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

Illinois was expected to be a dumpster fire this season after Tim Beckman was fired just prior to the season, but the Fighting Illini have been a bit of a surprise. However, they did just barely defeat Middle Tennessee in week four, 27-25, looking like the Illinois in which everyone expected to start the season. Wes Lunt and Geronimo Allison continue to establish a solid connection, but the secondary struggled mightily against the Blue Raiders.

Must Read: Central Michigan vs Michigan State: Top performers

Is Indiana the most disrespected 4-0 team in the country? Probably, but the Hoosiers have yet to really impress with any of their victories. Nate Sudfeld hit the road with the Hoosiers and took down ACC bottom-dweller Wake Forest in week four. Jordan Howard had yet another solid day at running back for the Hoosiers as the UAB-transfer finished with 168 yards and a touchdown in a 31-24 victory over the Demon Deacons.

Penn State has yet to really impress our writers as the Nittany Lions dropped two spots in the power rankings even after defeating San Diego State in week four. Christian Hackenberg finally had his best game of the season, completing 21-of-35 passes for 296 yards and three touchdowns with, get this, zero interceptions. For a guy who has been a turnover machine over the past two years, that’s a welcomed stat.

Next: No. 8 Nebraska - No. 6 Michigan