Overall it was a quiet week in the Big Ten outside of Indiana’s dominant 63-10 win over Illinois. 5 teams—Ohio State, Penn State, Oregon, Indiana and USC—seem to be the class of the conference and CFP contenders. The schedule ramps up next week with more conference games to separate the contenders.
Check Out All EasySportz College Football Content Here!
Ohio State (3-0) The Buckeyes remain the top dog in the Big Ten. With a dominant defense that has only given up 16 points all season, Ohio State looks poised for another playoff run. They had a bye this week, but their previous win over Texas holds up as one of the most impressive non-conference victories in the country.
Penn State (3-0) Penn State also had a bye week, but they remain undefeated and dangerous. Their win streak is built on a stifling defense that has shut out its opponents in two games. The Nittany Lions have a major test this week against Oregon, which will give us a better sense of where they stand.
Oregon (4-0, 1-0 B1G) The Ducks are living up to their hype. They’ve been a scoring machine, and their 41-7 win over Oregon State was a statement. With a strong start in conference play, they are a legitimate contender for the Big Ten Championship.
Indiana (4-0, 1-0 B1G) The Hoosiers are one of the biggest surprises so far. At 4-0 after perhaps the perfomance of the year—a conference blowout over previously #9 Illinois, they have everyone’s attention.
USC (3-0, 1-0 B1G) The Trojans have been nothing short of explosive. They are still undefeated and have already secured a conference victory. Their offense is dynamic, and they have the potential to outscore anyone in the Big Ten. Can the Trojans avoid the unexpected losses that they’ve suffered in past seasons with coach Lincoln Riley?
Michigan (3-1, 1-0 B1G) After a tough loss to Oklahoma, the Wolverines bounced back with a solid win over Nebraska. Their defense has been a question mark, but their offense has shown some flashes of brilliance. They will need to find consistency to compete for a championship.
Maryland (4-0, 1-0 B1G) A perfect 4-0 record is a great way to start the season. Maryland has been consistently winning, including a blowout 27-10 conference victory this week at Wisconsin. Could Maryland be for real?
Iowa (3-1, 1-0 B1G) Kirk Ferentz became the winningest coach in Big Ten history this week, and the Hawkeyes have started strong. Their win at Rutgers—and scoring 38 points in it—was a great way to start conference play, and their defense is still among the best in the nation.
Illinois (3-1, 0-1 B1G) Illinois suffered a tough loss to Indiana, which drops them down the list. They will have to prove they can win in the conference if they want to climb back up.
Washington (3-0) The Huskies have been dominant in their non-conference schedule, but they have yet to play a Big Ten team. With a 3-0 record and a decisive Apple Cup win over rival Washington State, they are a team to watch as they begin their conference schedule.
Michigan State (3-1) The Spartans suffered their first loss of the season at USC. The Spartans are still rebuilding, but they have the potential to score lots of points and potentially sneak up on a few teams this season.
Nebraska (3-1, 0-1 B1G) Nebraska is 3-1, but their loss to Michigan drops them down the rankings. They will need to regroup and find a way to win their next conference game.
Minnesota (2-1) The Golden Gophers have a solid record, but their loss to Cal is a concern. They will have to prove they can beat quality teams when they start their conference schedule.
Rutgers (3-1, 0-1 B1G) Rutgers has a respectable record, but their home loss to Iowa shows they have work to do to compete in the conference.
Purdue (2-2, 0-1 B1G) Purdue has had a difficult start to the season with two losses, but they have been more competitive this season. They will need to find a way to turn things around to avoid another losing season.
Wisconsin (2-2, 0-1 B1G) The Badgers have lost two games already, and weren’t competitive in losses to Alabama and Maryland. Pressure is building on coauch Luke Fickell. They have a tough road ahead, and it will be a challenge to get back into the rankings.
Northwestern (1-2, 0-1 B1G) Northwestern is struggling with only one win so far. They will need to find a way to win conference games to avoid the bottom of the rankings.
UCLA (0-3) UCLA has had a disastrous start to the season. After firing their head coach after an 0-3 start, the Bruins have a long way to go to become a respectable program.
