Illini among those chasing Spartans for Big Ten crown

That leaves a four-team race, with Michigan State, Illinois, Ohio State and Purdue the only schools with realistic chances to grab a share of the title. And at this point, it's hard to believe Michigan State won't win at least a share, if not the outright championship.

The most important factor is that the Spartans begin the week two full games ahead of Illinois and Ohio State, which share second place. So Sparty has a cushion to play with.

But the next two games are critical for Michigan State, which plays in-state rival Michigan tonight in Ann Arbor, then travels to Purdue Feb. 17.

Tupper