Week 12
Final
1981 Big 10
| Team | W | L | PCT |
|---|---|---|---|
 Illinois | 7 | 4 | .636 |
 Indiana | 3 | 8 | .273 |
 Iowa | 8 | 4 | .667 |
 Michigan | 9 | 3 | .750 |
 Michigan State | 5 | 6 | .455 |
 Minnesota | 6 | 5 | .545 |
 Northwestern | 0 | 11 | .000 |
 Ohio State | 9 | 3 | .750 |
 Purdue | 5 | 6 | .455 |
 Wisconsin | 7 | 5 | .583 |
Game Summary
The Northwestern Wildcats were easily defeated by the Illinois Fighting Illini, 49 to 12, on November 21, 1981.