The Big Ten is an absolute powerhouse this year, with three bona fide Top 5 contenders in the Buckeyes, Nittany Lions, and Ducks. There will be no shortage of massive matchups, both in-conference and out of conference.
Beyond the heavyweights, there are several other playoff-worthy teams. Illinois and Indiana will both be pushing for spots, with Illinois seen as the favorite between the two. Michigan is viewed as a near lock, though questions remain at several key positions. The drama is big in the Big Ten, so let’s dive in.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
2024 Record: 14-2 (7-2)
2025 Projected Record: 11-1 (9-0)
The Buckeyes have the best player in college football right now, and he is only a sophomore. Jeremiah Smith posted 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024 as a true freshman. It is rare to see a receiver step on the field straight out of high school and put up numbers like that. Add in Caleb Downs, one of the top defenders in the country, and the Buckeyes already have the makings of a title favorite.
The biggest question is at quarterback. Julian Sayin, a top-10 recruit, has the talent to take over for Will Howard, but it is no guarantee he will thrive right away. The pressure is enormous, with many picking Ohio State to win it all.
If Sayin can quickly build chemistry with Smith, Carnell Tate, and transfer tight end Max Klare, the passing game should flourish. On defense, Downs leads a unit featuring a mix of veterans, transfers, and young starters. The potential is obvious, but it will need to click to deliver another championship.
Key Returning Players: WR Jeremiah Smith (SO), S Caleb Downs (JR), QB Julian Sayin (RS FR), LB Sonny Styles (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: TE Max Klare (RS JR), OT Ethan Onianwa (RS SR), DE Beau Atkinson (RS JR), RB CJ Donaldson (SR)
Heisman Watch: WR Jeremiah Smith (SO). The only thing that could hold him back is Sayin’s inexperience. Smith is already a star and will only get better as the game slows down for him.
2. Penn State Nittany Lions
2024 Record: 13-3 (8-1)
2025 Projected Record: 11-1 (8-1)
Penn State looks a lot like Notre Dame in that they are built around two elite running backs. Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen combined for 2,207 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns in 2024, and the expectation is more of the same this year. Both are versatile, every-down backs who force defenses to crowd the line of scrimmage.
That opens the door for Drew Allar to take advantage. The senior quarterback remains divisive. Some expect a breakout season, while others argue he is overrated. He may not be a top-10 QB, and that could be what holds Penn State back.
The defense remains as tough as ever. With the program’s reputation as Linebacker U, the standard is clear. Durant and Campbell lead a deep, talented lineup that will keep the Lions in any game.
Key Returning Players: QB Drew Allar (SR), RB Kaytron Allen (SR), RB Nicholas Singleton (SR), DT Zane Durant (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Kyron Hudson (RS SR), WR Trebor Pena (RS SR), WR Devonte Ross (SR), LB Amare Campbell (JR)
Heisman Watch: None. The presence of two star running backs splits votes, while Allar is unlikely to reach that level.
3. Oregon Ducks
2024 Record: 13-1 (9-0)
2025 Projected Record: 10-2 (8-1)
It is difficult to know exactly what to expect from Oregon this season. The program has been remarkably consistent in recent years, quickly developing into a powerhouse, but this roster is filled with new faces still finding their footing.
Transfer RB Makhi Hughes should be the focal point of the offense, but with a rebuilt offensive line, he will need the unit to gel quickly. At quarterback, Dante Moore has yet to meet the hype, though the talent remains. With WR Evan Stewart as his primary target, Moore has a chance to change his story, but it will not be an easy transition.
Key Returning Players: C Iapani Laloulu (JR), Bryce Boettcher (RS SR), DE Matayo Uiagalelei (JR), LB Devon Jackson (RS JR)
Key Incoming Transfers: RB Makhi Hughes (RS JR), Isaiah World (RS SR), CB Theran Johnson (RS SR), DT Bear Alexander (RS JR)
4. Illinois Fighting Illini
2024 Record: 10-3 (6-3)
2025 Projected Record: 9-3 (7-2)
Illinois may not be the first program that comes to mind as a top-25 team, but they had a strong 2024 and bring back much of the starting lineup.
Luke Altmyer had a solid season, and in his final year he will look to put up similar or better numbers to boost his NFL draft stock. The defense remains largely intact, as does the offensive line. The main concern is at the skill positions, where new producers will need to emerge at both running back and wide receiver.
Expect the defense to be underrated, especially the pass rush in front of a solid secondary.
Key Returning Players: LB Gabe Jacas (SR), QB Luke Altmyer (RS SR), OT J.C. Davis (SR), CB Xavier Scott (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Hudson Clement (RS JR), DE James Thompson Jr. (RS SR), DT Curt Neal (RS JR), LB Leon Lowery Jr. (RS SR)
5. Indiana Hoosiers
2024 Record: 11-2 (8-1)
2025 Projected Record: 9-3 (7-2)
Indiana will again rely on a ferocious defense to win games, though the offense has seen significant turnover.
Fernando Mendoza takes over at quarterback and brings a dual-threat ability, though he is not the caliber of a Lamar Jackson as either a runner or passer. With new starters at receiver and offensive line, Mendoza will need to prove he can keep the Hoosiers at last year’s level while also attempting to raise their ceiling.
Key Returning Players: RB Kaelon Black (RS SR), WR Elijah Sarratt (SR), DE Mikail Kamara (RS SR), LB Aidan Fisher (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: QB Fernando Mendoza (RS JR), WR Jonathan Brady (SR), C Pat Coogan (RS SR), DE Stephen Daley (RS SR)
6. Michigan Wolverines
2024 Record: 8-5 (5-4)
2025 Projected Record: 9-3 (6-3)
The Wolverines enter 2025 with plenty of questions, but everything revolves around the quarterback battle. Freshman phenom Bryce Underwood is competing with transfer Mikey Keene, and the decision is expected on August 25. Opinions are split on whether to throw Underwood into the fire immediately or give Keene the reins for one year.
At the same time, head coach Sherrone Moore faces a three-game suspension following a sign-stealing scandal. This complicates the picture, but the roster remains competitive with strong talent on both sides of the ball. Ultimately, the QB decision will define Michigan’s season.
Key Returning Players: G Giovanni El-Hadi (RS SR), C Greg Crippen (RS SR), LB Ernest Hausmann (SR), LB Derrick Moore (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: RB Justice Haynes (JR), WR Donaven McCulley (GR), DT Tre Williams (GR), CB TJ Metcalf (JR)
7. Nebraska Cornhuskers
2024 Record: 7-6 (3-6)
2025 Projected Record: 8-4 (6-3)
Nebraska showed signs of life in 2024, finishing above .500, though their conference struggles persisted.
Sophomore quarterback Dylan Raiola showed flashes as a freshman, but consistency was lacking. With a year of experience, Raiola is expected to take a step forward, helped by veteran RB Emmett Johnson providing stability. New coordinators on both sides of the ball make this team a wild card, but the potential is clear.
Key Returning Players: QB Dylan Raiola (SO), RB Emmett Johnson (RS JR), CB Ceyair Wright (RS SR), LB Javin Wright (RS SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Dane Key (RS SR), OT Elijah Pritchett (RS JR), LB Marques Watson-Trent (RS SR), G Rocco Spindler (RS SR)
8. Iowa Hawkeyes
2024 Record: 8-5 (6-3)
2025 Projected Record: 8-4 (6-3)
The Hawkeyes are traditionally known for powerful running backs gashing defenses behind a massive offensive line. For the first time in a long time, things could look a little different.
QB transfer Mark Gronowski is not guaranteed to start, but it would be surprising if he does not win the job. The former FCS star from South Dakota State has dealt with injuries but has the tools to make the Iowa offense more balanced. If he can play up to his previous level, the passing game could become a real factor.
Even with Gronowski, Iowa will lean on sophomore RB Kamari Moulton and their usual strong line. A more balanced attack, however, could elevate them into higher-tier contention.
Key Returning Players: RB Kamari Moulton (RS SO), C Logan Jones (GR), DE Max Llewellyn (RS SR), DE Ethan Hurkett (GR)
Key Incoming Transfers: QB Mark Gronowski (SR), QB Hank Brown (RS SO), DT Jonah Pace (RS SR), CB Shahid Barros (RS SR)
9. USC Trojans
2024 Record: 7-6 (4-5)
2025 Projected Record: 7-5 (5-4)
The Trojans are far removed from their glory days, and Lincoln Riley is firmly on the hot seat. To keep his job, he must restore USC’s prestige quickly.
Riley is sticking with QB Jayden Maiava, hoping continuity will allow the offense to fire on all cylinders from the start. The Trojans were relatively quiet in the transfer portal, relying heavily on homegrown talent to step up.
The pressure is squarely on Riley. Coaching at an elite level is required if USC is to make noise in the Big Ten this year.
Key Returning Players: QB Jayden Maiava (RS JR), WR Makai Lemon, LB Eric Gentry (RS SR), S Kamari Ramsey (RS JR)
Key Incoming Transfers: RB Waymond James (JR), RB Eli Sanders (RS SR), CB DJ Harvey (RS SR), S Bishop Fitzgerald (RS SR)
10. Minnesota Golden Gophers
2024 Record: 8-5 (5-4)
2025 Projected Record: 7-5 (4-5)
Minnesota once again looks set to rely on defense. The Golden Gophers bring back another strong unit despite a new defensive coordinator, and sophomore safety Koi Perich has generated buzz as such an impressive athlete that he may even take some snaps on offense.
On offense, freshman QB Drake Lindsey is slated to start. Given Minnesota’s recent struggles moving the ball, it is hard to imagine a smooth first season for Lindsey. Expect the team to lean on RB Darius Taylor and the running game to control possession in grind-it-out battles.
Key Returning Players: QB Drake Lindsey (RS FR), RB Darius Taylor (JR), WR Le’Meke Brockington (RS SR), S Koi Perich (SO)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Javon Tracy (RS JR), WR Logan Loya (RS SR), LB Jeff Roberson (RS SR), CB Jaylen Bowden (JR)
11. Washington Huskies
2024 Record: 7-6 (4-5)
2025 Projected Record: 7-5 (4-5)
Sophomore QB Demond Williams Jr. could be the next breakout dual-threat star. He showed flashes in limited snaps last season and has the athleticism to open up the entire offense. If he develops quickly, Washington’s attack could become far more dynamic.
The defense is less certain, with many new faces outside of CB Ephesians Prysock. This feels like a transition year as the Huskies build toward 2026.
Key Returning Players: QB Demond Williams Jr. (SO), RB Jonah Coleman (SR), CB Ephesians Prysock (SR), DE Isaiah Ward (RS JR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Omari Evans (SR), OT Carver Willis (RS SR), DE Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei (SR), S CJ Christian (RS SR)
12. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
2024 Record: 7-6 (4-5)
2025 Projected Record: 7-5 (3-6)
Greg Schiano’s offense mostly returns, but the absence of a proven running back looms large. QB Athan Kaliakmanis is back for his senior year, yet without a reliable ground game, the Knights risk leaning too heavily on his arm. That lack of balance could make it tough for them to string wins together week to week.
Defensively, the team faces turnover with a new coordinator and a largely rebuilt lineup. Both sides of the ball have plenty to prove early.
Key Returning Players: QB Athan Kaliakmanis (RS SR), OT Tyler Needham (RS SR), G Bryan Felter (RS SR), LB Dariel Djabome (RS JR)
Key Incoming Transfers: DE Eric O’Neill (RS SR), CB Cam Miller (SR), RB CJ Campbell Jr. (RS SR), WR DT Sheffield (RS SR)
13. Wisconsin Badgers
2024 Record: 5-7 (3-6)
2025 Projected Record: 6-6 (3-6)
Wisconsin’s offense continues to lack direction. Even with QB Billy Edwards transferring in, it is hard to see how this unit changes that storyline.
The defense underperformed last year, though the secondary is a strength. If Edwards can generate some offense, the defense is good enough to keep the Badgers in games. Still, against stronger Big Ten foes, this roster feels outmatched.
Key Returning Players: WR Vinny Anthony II (SR), CB Ricardo Hallman (RS SR), CB Nyzier Fourqurean (GR), S Preston Zachman (RS SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: QB Billy Edwards Jr. (RS SR), WR Jaylen Ballard (RS SR), OT Davis Heinzen (RS SR), LB Mason Reiger (RS SR)
14. Maryland Terrapins
2024 Record: 4-8 (1-8)
2025 Projected Record: 5-7 (2-7)
Maryland continues the Big Ten theme of young quarterbacks, with true freshman Malik Washington projected to start. The Terrapins are young across the board, which likely means another year of growing pains before being taken seriously.
If the roster develops and stays intact, however, this team could be one to watch in 2026 or 2027.
Key Returning Players: RB Nolan Ray (RS SO), WR Octavian Smith Jr. (SR), DE Neeo Avery (RS SO), S Jalen Huskey (SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Jalil Farooq (RS SR), CB Dontay Joyner (JR), DT Cam Rice (GR), OT Rahtrel Perry (RS JR)
15. Michigan State Spartans
2024 Record: 5-7 (3-6)
2025 Projected Record: 4-8 (3-6)
QB Aidan Chiles remains a raw talent. His physical tools are undeniable, but his decision-making has led to costly mistakes. For the Spartans to improve, Chiles must progress rapidly.
TE Jack Velling is the best player on the roster and gives Chiles a reliable target. If the quarterback can slow the game down and trust his weapons, this offense could take a modest step forward.
Key Returning Players: QB Aidan Chiles (RS JR), TE Jack Velling (SR), DE Jalen Thompson (JR), WR Nick Marsh (SO)
Key Incoming Transfers: RB Elijah Tau-Tolliver (RS SR), WR Omari Kelly (SR), CB Joshua Eaton (RS SR), LB David Santiago (RS SO)
16. UCLA Bruins
2024 Record: 5-7 (3-6)
2025 Projected Record: 4-8 (2-7)
All eyes will be on former five-star QB Nico Iamaleava, who transferred after a messy NIL standoff with Tennessee. UCLA will be hoping he lives up to the hype and provides the program with a spark.
There are other solid pieces on the roster, but the season will ultimately be judged on whether Iamaleava elevates the Bruins to Big Ten competitiveness. Expectations are modest, and 2025 could bring more disappointment.
Key Returning Players: G Oluwafunto Akinshilo (RS SR), WR Titus Mokiao-Atimalala (RS SR), DE Devin Aupiu (RS SR), LB JonJon Vaughns (RS SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: QB Nico Iamaleava (RS SO), RB Jaivian Thomas (JR), CB Andre Jordan Jr. (JR), S Key Lawrence (RS SR)
17. Northwestern Wildcats
2024 Record: 4-8 (2-7)
2025 Projected Record: 4-8 (1-8)
Northwestern is relying heavily on graduate transfers, including QB Preston Stone, to steady the roster. Unfortunately, it does not appear to be enough to make them competitive in 2025.
Expect another difficult year as the Wildcats work through a rebuild. The transfer portal will likely be their main path to survival over the next few seasons.
Key Returning Players: RB Cam Porter (GR), C Jack Bailey (GR), DE Aidan Hubbard (RS SR), LB Mac Uihlein (RS SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: QB Preston Stone (GR), WR Griffin Wilde (JR), LB Yanni Karlaftis (GR), CB Fred Davis (GR)
18. Purdue Boilermakers
2024 Record: 1-11 (0-9)
2025 Projected Record: 2-10 (0-9)
Purdue enters a new era with Barry Odom as head coach after one of the worst seasons in school history. Unfortunately, the roster has not improved enough to expect major strides this year.
The QB battle remains unsettled, and fans may need to brace for another long season. If the team can show more consistency, stay competitive in more games, and take even a small step forward in the win column, that would count as progress in 2025.
Key Returning Players: QB Bennett Meredith (RS JR), QB Ryan Browne (RS SO), WR De’Nylon Morrissette (RS JR), RB Devin Mockobee (RS SR)
Key Incoming Transfers: WR Charles Ross (RS SR), LB Mani Powell (SR), CB Tony Grimes (RS SR), S Crew Wakley (RS SR)
Championship Game Prediction
Ohio State defeats Penn State
Games to Circle
Texas at Ohio State (Aug. 30): Two teams with playoff expectations, each breaking in a new starting quarterback (Arch Manning and Julian Sayin). This early clash could set the tone for the season.
Penn State at Ohio State (Nov. 1): Likely a preview of the conference championship game, this matchup will show which team has the upper hand.
Oregon at Penn State (Sept. 27): Oregon enters the Big Ten discussion as the third contender. A win here could shift the entire conference narrative.
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