Big Ten Considers Rule Change to Help Ohio State Make College Football Playoffs

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On Monday, I argued that it would be a miscarriage of justice if Ohio State were undefeated and still ineligible for the Big Ten Championship Game because they couldn't get six games in. Ohio State beat Indiana head-to-head, and every other team in the Big Ten East has at least two losses. Kirk Herbstreit expressed concern that Michigan might duck Ohio State next week and cement their rivals' ineligibility. He promptly apologized.

Now, Wisconsin Athletic Director Barry Alvarez confirms that the Big Ten would indeed consider changing their rules to accommodate Ohio State (via Angelique S. Chengelis of the Detroit News):






OutKick founder Clay Travis also says there is potential movement in the conference:






Clay said that the Big Ten would hope to find an opponent for Ohio State even if Michigan cancels next week, that Ohio State is "desperate" to take the field against Michigan State this week, and that Big Ten athletic directors could change the rules to allow Ohio State to play in the Big Ten title game, even if they fail to meet the six-game threshold. They may also change the quarantine rules in light of new CDC guidance, which have shortened the recommended quarantine period from 21 days to 7-10 days.

Anyways, I've been saying this is what should happen for a couple days, and if you want a chuckle, go read the replies and quote-tweets from Indiana fans irate with me for suggesting the Big Ten should change its rules:











I don't want to disparage the Indiana program. They've had a nice season. Bloomington is an incredible college town. Kilroy's is the best college bar I know of in America (sample size probably over 100), and the doner truck in Bloomington is one of the most delicious meals I have ever had. Those who know me know I wouldn't say that lightly.

HOWEVER, Ohio State, should they remain undefeated, definitely deserves to get into the Big Ten Championship Game and have a shot at the College Football Playoffs, even if they're unable to play Michigan next week and unable to find another opponent.



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Ryan Glasspiegel grew up in Connecticut, graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison, and lives in Chicago. Before OutKick, he wrote for Sports Illustrated and The Big Lead. He enjoys expensive bourbon and cheap beer.