The Ohio State football team’s season changes Saturday as it enters Big Ten play against Illinois.

“It’s going to be a battle every week,” defensive lineman Cameron Heyward said. “The Big Ten is very physical, very smash-mouth, and we have a lot we have to improve on if we want to be Big Ten champions.”

If the team accomplishes that goal, it will win a record sixth-straight Big Ten crown. The significance is not lost on the players.

“It’s the Big Ten,” wide receiver DeVier Posey said. “It means a lot and we take that very seriously in the locker room and very seriously around the Woody (Hayes Athletic Center).”

With the start of Big Ten play also comes the first road game for OSU.

“It’s exciting to go on the road,” Coach Jim Tressel said. “We lose many of the advantages we’ve had for the last four games … but our guys like challenges and I think they’re anxious to get on the road.”

Some players emphasized the importance of focus in games away from the Horseshoe.

“It’s just a matter of going in, knowing that things might be a little different in preparation, but when we get on the field it’s going to be the same,” kicker Devin Barclay said.

Others pointed to the importance of experience and leadership.

“We have a veteran group, so you know we have guys that have traveled before,” Posey said. “I feel like Coach Tressel and the coaching staff have done a great job preparing us for all types of elements.”

Lack of preparation might have been a factor in the Buckeyes’ only Big Ten loss last season against Purdue in West Lafayette, Ind. OSU entered that game ranked No. 7 in the country and lost 26-18 to the unranked Boilermakers.

“We won’t talk about Purdue,” Tressel said. “You would hope those (players) … would still have the understanding very deep in their soul that you better be prepared when you’re on the road.”

Whether at home or on the road, the team knows every game in the Big Ten is important.

“With the Big Ten coming, you can’t take nothing for granted,” running back Jordan Hall said. “One slip and our dreams are gone.”

Coaches and players are looking forward to the challenge.

“Now we’re just getting ready to start the rough period, and that will really determine if we can maintain,” Tressel said. “I feel confident we can, but we’ll have to see.”

Quarterback Terrelle Pryor is excited about tackling the difficult task ahead.

“The fun starts this week,” he said.