The year 2006 ended with an epic clash between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Michigan in Columbus.

But in a year's time, OSU was defeated after being a heavy favorite in the National Championship Game, UM lost to Appalachian State, and the conference continued its losing streak to USC.

A once proud conference suddenly became crestfallen, lowered by some ESPN analysts to the level of Conference USA.

Growing up in Big Ten country, it pains me because the conference has a rich history and tradition. So many great coaches including Woody Hayes, Bo Schembechler, and Hayden Fry hail from the Midwest.

But there is no doubt that in the eyes of many observers, especially those in the SEC and Los Angeles, the conference as...

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