College FootballBig Ten
Big Ten Football Schedule 2026: Key Early Season Matchups
The Big Ten has released its early-season football schedule for 2026, featuring several marquee matchups that will significantly impact the ...
12 days ago
College FootballBig Ten
Big Ten Football 2025: Power Rankings, Top Players, and Key Games
10 months agoUS
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Big Ten is poised to be a battleground for national title contenders. With perennial powerhouses like Ohio State and Penn State, along with rising stars like Oregon and Illinois, the conference promises thrilling matchups and intense competition. This preview breaks down the top teams, key players, must-see games, and betting odds for the upcoming season.
Key Insights
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Penn State: Ranked as a top national title contender with returning quarterback Drew Allar and a strong defense led by new coordinator Jim Knowles.
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Ohio State: Despite losing 14 NFL draft picks, the Buckeyes remain a threat with elite players like WR Jeremiah Smith and DB Caleb Downs. A new quarterback, Julian Sayin, will need to step up.
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Oregon: The defending Big Ten champions look to continue their success with new QB Dante Moore and a talented roster bolstered by transfer portal additions.
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Illinois: A dark horse contender with a favorable schedule and key returning players, including QB Luke Altmyer.
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Michigan: After a transition year, the Wolverines aim to rejoin the Big Ten elite with freshman QB Bryce Underwood and a strong defense.
In-Depth Analysis
CFP Outlook
Should be in: Penn State, Ohio State, Oregon.
In the running: Illinois, Michigan, Indiana.
Long shots: Nebraska, USC, Minnesota, Washington.
Penn State enters the season as a strong national contender, boasting a balanced team with experience at key positions. Ohio State, despite significant roster turnover, always remains in the mix due to their elite talent. Oregon, after winning the Big Ten in their debut season, aims to prove they are more than just a one-year wonder.
Must-See Games
1.
Texas at Ohio State (Aug. 30): A rematch of last year's CFP semifinal.
2.
Michigan at Oklahoma (Sept. 6): Two programs looking to re-establish themselves in the top 10.
3.
Illinois at Indiana (Sept. 20): A crucial game for both teams' playoff aspirations.
4.
Oregon at Penn State (Sept. 27): A potential top-5 matchup with major CFP implications.
5.
USC at Illinois (Sept. 27) and Indiana at Iowa (Sept. 27): A stacked Week 5 slate.
6.
Michigan at USC (Oct. 11): A pivotal game for both programs, with potential playoff implications.
7.
Penn State at Ohio State (Nov. 1): The biggest game of the regular season in terms of combined SP+ ratings.
8.
Indiana at Penn State (Nov. 8): A crucial game for Penn State to avoid a post-Ohio State hangover.
9.
Ohio State at Michigan (Nov. 29): A rivalry game that could send the loser into a tailspin.
Three Freshmen to Watch
1.
Malik Washington, QB, Maryland: A dual-threat QB with immense potential.
2.
Bryce Underwood, QB, Michigan: The highest-ranked player in his class, expected to compete for the starting job.
3.
Dakorien Moore, WR, Oregon: A blazing fast receiver who could make an immediate impact.
Three Top Transfers
1.
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana: Brings experience and talent to the Hoosiers' offense.
2.
Nico Iamaleava, QB, UCLA: A highly-touted QB looking to live up to his potential.
3.
Isaiah World, OT, Oregon: A massive pass protector with potential first-round draft pick talent.
Numbers to Know
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4: Seasons since Ohio State won the Big Ten title, their longest drought since 1987-1992.
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8: Big Ten quarterbacks who were in the top 25 of the ESPN300 recruit rankings.
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+200: Ohio State's odds of winning the Big Ten championship, the longest odds for the favorite in at least 15 years.
FAQs
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Q: Who are the favorites to win the Big Ten in 2025?
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A: Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon are the top contenders.
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Q: Which teams are considered dark horses?
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A: Illinois and Indiana are teams to watch out for.
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Q: Which freshmen could make an immediate impact?
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A: Malik Washington (Maryland), Bryce Underwood (Michigan), and Dakorien Moore (Oregon).
Key Takeaways
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The Big Ten is loaded with talent and poised for an exciting 2025 season.
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Penn State and Ohio State are the frontrunners, but Oregon, Illinois, and Michigan could surprise.
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Keep an eye on key transfers and freshmen who could play significant roles.
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The Ohio State vs. Texas (Aug 30) and Oregon vs. Penn State (Sept 27) games will be crucial early season matchups.
Discussion
Do you think Penn State will finally break through and win the Big Ten? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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