The debate is raging over whether a rematch should take place on January 8. Big Ten Country has weighed in on that topic below. The other two key conference bowl bids don't have controversy shrouding them. Wisconsin has been honed in on a second straight Capital One Bowl bid for several weeks. Penn State has been similiarly dialed in on the Outback, the game that sets the tone for New Year's Day. Both will match up with SEC teams.
Wisconsin is still hoping against hope for an at-large bid to the BCS. There have been rumors flying around about a possible loophole in the two-team per conference limitation that would kick in if both Michigan and Ohio State play for the national title. But I've checked the BCS Selection Rules (they are linked to here on the lefthand side), and I don't see any loophole. I've also not heard anyone I would consider credible say with any real conviction that this loophole exists. The Badgers had best gear up for Orlando, where they will get the chance to prove their elite record was not purely the result of weak competition.
Penn State didn't expect as tough a game as Michigan State gave them, according to offensive tackle Levi Brown. But playing the style PSU plays virtually guarantees close games (though I don't know if offensive ineptitude is really a "style"). On the flip side, however, the Nittany Lions have a defense that can shut down anyone. So even though their opponent in Tampa will almost be surely be someone of high profile (LSU or Auburn look like the best bets), and Penn State is going to be an underdog, they can be assured the D will keep them in the game. Like Wisconsin, PSU has a unique opportunity to prove themselves in this one. Every team they have lost to is ranked in the top eight nationally. Conversely, their best wins came against Purdue and Minnesota. The Outback Bowl will be a chance for them to beat a top-caliber team and mark themselves as a national contender in 2007.
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