Big Ten notches three Top 5 teams in AP Poll

The AP Top 25 Poll released their updated rankings on Sunday. Once again, the No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide remained on top. However, the Big Ten reached another milestone in the rankings. With one regular season game left, the Big Ten notched three teams in the Top 5. 

Due to No. 11 Louisville's loss to No. 18 Houston, the Cardinals dropped eight spots. Therefore, No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes, No. 3 Michigan Wolverines and No. 5 Wisconsin Badgers all benefited by producing strong victories. The Buckeyes remained in the second spot for consecutive weeks, while the Wolverines and Badgers each moved up one spot. 

However, they weren't the only Big Ten teams in the Top 10. The No. 8 Penn State Nittany Lions also rose one spot in the AP Top 25 Poll. They have the longest winning streak in the Big Ten. In addition, the Nittany Lions might be playing for a spot in the Big Ten Championship game on Saturday afternoon. Their season finale is against the Michigan State Spartans. 

The No. 17 Nebraska Cornhuskers also moved up one spot in top 25. The Huskers dominated during a 28-7 win over Maryland, and kept their Big Ten West hopes alive. 

Currently, the Big Ten has an unusual amount of scenarios heading into the final week. Although the Badgers hold the tie-breaker over the Huskers, both teams need a win to secure a spot in the Big Ten championship game. Otherwise, the Big Ten West could finish in a four-way tie. 

Meanwhile, the Big Ten East is a three horse race. The Wolverines and Buckeyes have their yearly showdown. If the Wolverines win, they are headed to the Big Ten championship game. Furthermore, the loser of the game may be knocked out of the College Football Playoff chase. If Ohio State wins, Penn State will go to the conference championship game with a victory. Therefore, none of these teams are a lock to make the College Football Playoff. 

Here is the AP Top 25 Poll.