Traditional Big Ten powers had big statements to make Saturday, and they obliged. Penn State used a stifling defense and a potent rush attack to down Illinois in Happy Valley, while Jeremiah Smith continued to dazzle the nation in an Ohio State romp over Michigan State. Ken and James also break down Indiana's 5-0 start and Michigan's bounce back after their early-season struggles. The guys end the show with a significant announcement, and a message to all of our listeners as NBC Sports Chicago says farewell.

Two of the top teams in the Big Ten will face their first conference tests this week, and Kenneth Davis and James Neveau are breaking it all down. Eleven Warriors' Dan Hope discusses Ohio State's showdown with Michigan State, evaluating how the team's defense plans to slow down Jordan Chiles and the devastating run game the Buckeyes have deployed this season (1:00). Johnny McGonigal of PennLive then joins the show as Penn State and Illinois collide in a battle of undefeated squads. Can Drew Allar keep up his strong play, and can the Nittany Lions' defense get enough pressure on Luke Altmyer and company (22:21)? Finally, the guys break down several conference matchups, including Minnesota-Michigan and an intriguing showdown between Washington and Rutgers (44:41).

Several teams made big statements in the Big Ten this weekend, with Illinois' win over Nebraska showcasing the grit of Luke Altmyer and the strategic genius of Aaron Henry. Michigan also proved that reports of their demise were premature in a run-fueled win over USC, with Kalel Mullings stealing the show in Ann Arbor. The guys also praise Iowa for an emphatic win over Minnesota and judge whether mudslides, wild safeties or creepy chickens are the Footballiest Thing of the Week.