Brent Yarina, BTN.com Senior Editor, January 7, 2014

Michigan State and Auburn both started the season unranked and went on to go 12-1 and win their respective conferences. So, why did the Tigers get the BCS title game bid over the Spartans? Other than the fact they play in the SEC, of course? Gerry DiNardo said on Tuesday's #BTNLive that it has to do with how the Big Ten schedules. DiNardo's recommendation? Play more big-time September night games. Watch the segment here.

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As DiNardo said in the video:"The perception of the SEC (is) you get a good glimpse of them in September, because they're playing conference games in September. Florida State has been headed for the national championship game since they beat Clemson in September. When was the last Big Ten game that the nation watched in September?"

Touche, Coach.

Then, DiNardo dropped this bold idea: "Why can't Michigan play Ohio State in September?" I know, because we never have! But it's possible that it would change the perception of the Big Ten. Why don't we have big, visible games at night in September?"

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It could only help, and, to be fair, the Big Ten has added a few September conference games to future schedules. But, DiNardo is referencing this season and past ones.

What's the so great about playing conference games in September? The benefits are plentiful. It gives teams a chance to make an early statement, to get in the national title discussion early on, and it lessens the blow of a potential loss for a contender, as it's always better to lose early than late, among other things.

Do you agree with DiNardo?