Big Ten power rankings Week 8: Ohio State cruises, Penn State tumbles

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Chris Olave (2) blows a kiss to the sky after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter of a NCAA Division I football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Maryland Terrapins on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021 at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.Cfb Maryland Terrapins At Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Chris Olave (2) blows a kiss to the sky after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter of a NCAA Division I football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Maryland Terrapins on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021 at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.Cfb Maryland Terrapins At Ohio State Buckeyes
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Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Bryce Williams (Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports)

The Golden Gophers came out swinging and handled Maryland rather easily, 34-16.

Despite losing their top two backs for the season, the run game continues to chug along as the team ran for 326 yards against the Terps. Ky Thomas led the way with 139 yards and a score.

This team is playing sound football on both sides of the ball and quietly has a chance to represent the West in the title game. They head to Northwestern this week, looking for their fourth straight win.