(By MICHAEL MAROT AP Sports Writer) – Two of the seven Big Ten Champions Week games have been canceled because of COVID-19 outbreaks. The Old Oaken Bucket game between Indiana and Purdue set for Friday was canceled for the second time in two weeks and the third time this season. Michigan’s game at No. 18 Iowa on Saturday also was canceled.

Iowa defensive back Dane Belton (4) celebrates with teammate Tyler Goodson (15) at the end of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 28-7. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

That’s the third straight Wolverines game called off. Athletic director Warde Manuel says more than 50 players are unavailable because of positive tests and contact tracing requirements.