The nonconference season heats up in the Big Ten, which will have seven teams facing opponents from other Power Five conferences over the weekend, including six matchups with ACC teams. In addition, East Division contender Penn State starts its league schedule. (The Gophers-North Carolina prediction will be published later in the week. All games Saturday unless noted):
Three with intrigue
No. 7 Penn State at Illinois, 11 a.m., FOX
* Nittany Lions (2-0) test their high-powered offense against a Fighting Illini defense that was rocked in Kansas. Penn State 31, Illinois 14
No. 8 Washington at Michigan State, 4 p.m., Peacock
* Spartans are 2-0, but can they focus on football with this Mel Tucker situation? Washington 34, Michigan State 16
Western Kentucky at No. 6 Ohio State, 3 p.m., FOX
* Hilltoppers love to push the pace, but they'll be out-athleted by 2-0 Buckeyes. Ohio State 35, Western Kentucky 10