The term "play soccer" refers to a way to approach the game tactically. Teams who like to possess the ball, keep it on the ground, etc. Think Manchester City in the Premier League.

My guess is in the Big Ten with worse weather and fields that might not be as well maintained, it's more of a simple style, direct long balls from back to front. Not as sophisticated or as tactical -- think back to childhood games in parks and rec; how can we get the ball forward as fast as possible.