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The 2026 Big Ten College Football Playoff Picture: Week 5

Week 5 of the Big Ten schedule brought intense conference matchups and tight battles across several notable programs. Fifth-ranked Ohio State climbed two spots in the AP Poll following a 42-19 victory over Illinois, fueled by standout performances including a four-touchdown game from receiver Jeremiah Smith.

Meanwhile, sixth-ranked Indiana narrowly escaped a four-quarter challenge against Northwestern thanks to 203 rushing yards and a touchdown by Lee Beebe Jr., and fourteenth-ranked Iowa secured a tight win over Michigan behind a last-second offensive touchdown and a kick return.

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