Everyone loves an underdog, and I loved how their game against Oklahoma in the bowl game played out a few years ago. That being said, I really feel their ranking is not justified. I base this statement on their strength of schedule--I realize you can't change who's on your schedule or who's in your conference--but I feel your everyday competition does have a lot to do with your record over the course of a season. Even if you're only playing Indiana, Illinois, and Minnesota, the physicality of teams like that will wear on your as the season plays out. It may not be reflected in actual injuries that cause you to miss games, but the number of bumps and bruises that are sustained by the middle of the year and beyond can affect the performance of a team. Anyone can survive one or two real challenges during the year--and then take 5 weeks off at the end to get ready for any bowl opponent. Two or three tough games--even if you win them--is not the same as a steady diet of true BCS quality competition. If they really want to play with the big boys, then make a move to join the Big 12 or the Pac 10.
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