I have pretty big clue. It's called perception. ESPN isn't the only media outlet that thinks our league sucks. BTN will basically admit to that. IF Nebraska and Penn State are undefeated and play in the Big Ten title game, then yes the winner can get in. But, if the winner of the conference has even 1 loss on their record we will probably not be getting in. The SEC champion with 0 or 1 loss is a lock. Oregon looks unstoppable but will probably still get in with a loss and a title, really any Pac 12 champ will get in. Oklahoma or Baylor should win the Big 12 easily but will probably have a loss, that probably still gets them in. And I really don't see much hope that FSU doesn't get in if they win today.
It's College Football. Anything can happen. But when you stack this conferences resume up to a similar conference champion or two from other leagues? It's not even close this season. The Big Ten has lost almost every marquee game we have had to show we can hang with The Pac 12, Big 12, SEC and ACC. You really don't think that will effect the committees judgement when decision time rolls around. Whichever undefeated champs there are will get in. If that leaves 2 or 3 spots open, we will very likely see our conference left out in the cold. Thems the breaks. That's why it's so damn important we take care of business this year and carry the league on our back like we used to.