The Big Ten college football landscape is a fascinating one, with a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising stars. While the conference may not boast the same depth as the SEC, it has certainly earned its place at the top of the Power Four and Bowl Subdivision. The question remains: who is the best program in the Big Ten?
In my opinion, the answer is clear: Ohio State. Since 2012, the Buckeyes have been a force to be reckoned with, boasting an impressive 165-21 record. Their consistent success is remarkable, with at least 10 wins in every full season but one since 2005. This level of dominance is what sets them apart and makes them the envy of every program in the country, not just within the Big Ten.
Indiana, the defending national champion, is a close second. Their unbeaten record and out-of-nowhere national title put them just ahead of Oregon, who has had a remarkable run under coach Dan Lanning. The Ducks are 46-8 under Lanning and have seamlessly blended into the Big Ten, winning the conference title in their first year and posting an 8-1 record in 2025.
Michigan, the 2023 national champs, is another program that has shown resilience. Despite a tumultuous two-year run under Sherrone Moore, the Wolverines went 17-9 and beat rival Ohio State once. Since Jim Harbaugh's arrival in 2015, Michigan has won at least eight games in every non-COVID season, demonstrating their ability to adapt and overcome challenges.
Penn State, under the leadership of Matt Campbell, is a program on the rise. A heavy influx of Iowa State transfers will make them difficult to predict, but a friendly schedule could yield around seven to nine wins. The Nittany Lions are resetting after a challenging period under James Franklin, and Campbell's influence is already making a difference.
Iowa, under the guidance of Kirk Ferentz, has been a model of consistency. With just one losing season since 2006, the Hawkeyes have qualified for bowl games in 22 of Ferentz's 25 seasons. Their current run is the best of the Ferentz era, with at least seven wins in every year since 2013 and two Big Ten crowns since 2021.
USC, under the leadership of new coach Bob Chesney, is a program with tremendous potential. After a nine-win 2025 season and a top-ranked signing class, the Trojans are on the rise. However, they have yet to play for a national title in two decades and need to climb several rungs before reaching the top of the Big Ten.
Washington, under Jedd Fisch, is another program that has shown promise. After struggling to get to bowl play in 2024, the Huskies bounced back with nine wins last season. Fisch, in his third season, should continue the success that has been a hallmark of the program since 2010.
Illinois, under coach Bret Bielema, is making moves. While personnel issues may cause a temporary pause, the Illini have raised their floor to six or so wins per season. Bielema's scheme has helped the program grasp its potential and move forward.
Minnesota, under P.J. Fleck, has been steady but has yet to capitalize on an 11-win campaign in 2019. The Gophers have posted at least eight wins in four of the past five years, demonstrating their ability to remain competitive.
Nebraska, under Matt Rhule, is a program that has been on the rise. While they haven't been a national factor in over 20 years, recent progress with two bowl berths in a row is encouraging. Rhule's influence has helped the Cornhuskers turn things around.
Wisconsin, under Luke Fickell, has faced challenges. The Badgers, once a consistent Big Ten contender, have dropped into the bottom half of the league due to poor results. Fickell's leadership will be crucial in getting the program back on track.
Michigan State, under Pat Fitzgerald, is a program that has struggled in recent years. After a dominant run under Mark Dantonio, the Spartans have faced challenges. Fitzgerald's hire is a step towards bringing consistency back to East Lansing.
Northwestern, under David Braun, has made two bowl games in three years. While there is always room for improvement, the Wildcats have moved onto more secure footing. The program is on a positive trajectory.
Rutgers, under Greg Schiano, has faced challenges. The Scarlet Knights have posted just two winning seasons since 2014 and have been one of the league's easiest marks. Schiano's second go-round has yielded three bowl bids, but the program continues to face an uphill battle.
Maryland, under Mike Locksley, has had its ups and downs. While they made three bowl games in a row, the Terrapins have struggled to capitalize. A very young team in 2025 might bounce back, but the program's ceiling is limited.
Purdue, under Barry Odom, is a program in rebuilding mode. Since Jeff Brohm's departure, the Boilermakers have gone 7-29 overall and 3-24 in league play. Odom's leadership is crucial in turning things around, but it will take time.
In conclusion, the Big Ten is a conference full of talented programs, each with its own unique story. While Ohio State currently leads the pack, the conference is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. The future holds exciting possibilities, and the competition will only intensify as these programs continue to strive for excellence.
