The Big Ten championship participants based on the current standings are straightforward, with Oregon and Indiana both holding on to undefeated records. While it’s unlikely the Ducks will lose, with only a home game against 6-5 Washington remaining, the Hoosiers have a less navigable road.

Penn State's chances of making the Big Ten championship game are low, but the Nittany Lions are still firmly in the Playoff mix.

Penn State is in prime position for a spot in the new 12-team College Football Playoff and still in the mix to make the Big Ten championship game

With Penn State’s strong push for a spot in the College Football Playoff still a couple of wins from completion, the biggest roadblock to a bid for the Nittany Lions in this favorable final third of their schedule has arrived: a trip to Minnesota.