LONGER BIG TEN SEASON WOULD CUT INTO HUNTIN’ TIME: The Big Ten is in a gridiron quandary over playing 8 or 9 conference games in a year.

Since the NCAA authorized a 12th game per season, the Big Televen is concerned over how to fill their slots. The A.D.’s say non-BCS teams are charging too much to come visit, while coaches are concerned that an extra league game may cost them a bowl invite.

Many schools have used the extra game to snack on a 1-AA cupcake. But that can cause indigestion, as in 2006 when New Hampshire doubled-up Northwestern and Southern Illinois salukied Indiana.

Wisconsin A.D. Barry Alvarez mentioned the idea of having the Big Ten season extend past Thanksgiving. But this wouldn’t fly too well, as he explained, “Our students would be gone, and it’s hunting season.“