[NU Sports] The Big Ten's delusion of self-importance

[Jim Bendat]

All of us love NU, and we probably generally love the Big Ten, too. I can't get enough of watching Big Ten games every Saturday, and the Big Ten Network has been fantastic.

That being said, let's consider what the Big Ten really is. Sure, it's a collection of generally outstanding universities, and the traditions that encompass the conference are as good as it gets. But, let's face it, Big Ten football isn't as important nationally as it wishes. Sure, we had three nationally ranked teams this year. But how many Rose Bowls have we won since 2000? Exactly one - last year, when Ohio State beat Oregon. How well has the Big Ten done in national title games? Ohio State was fortunate to beat Miami, and they got slaughtered by both Florida and LSU in recent years. 

I have to believe that the conference's delusion of self-importance was a major contribution in the ridiculous decision to name the divisions "Leaders" and "Legends." You don't think that there are leaders and legends in every single conference in the country? Of course there are. 

I can think of a couple of other L words: lame and laughingstock. 

Jim B.