Big Ten 2025 Season Preview

Hoosiers Set High Expectations

The 2025 Indiana Hoosiers achieved an unprecedented 16-0 record, earning both the Big Ten and national championships. With 10 returning starters and a coach gaining attention for his tactical prowess, the team prepares for what many consider a manageable season ahead. Despite Indiana’s success, Ohio State and Oregon are the focus of preseason conversations, topping the AP Top 25 poll among eight other ranked teams.

Challenges Ahead for Indiana

Indiana’s prospects face scrutiny with TCU transfer Josh Hoover stepping in as quarterback, replacing Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Doubts about Indiana’s momentum persist despite coach Curt Cignetti’s impressive 27-2 record and two College Football Playoff appearances. A notable highlight was Indiana’s recent victory over Miami, clinching the national championship in January 2026.

Ohio State’s Intense Schedule

Ohio State confronts a challenging conference lineup, including a visit to Indiana on October 17 and a home game against Oregon on November 7. These pivotal matches will significantly influence the team’s chances in the Big Ten championship and their CFP seeding. Ohio State boasts talents like Jeremiah Smith, the nation’s top receiver, alongside Julian Sayin, a highly accurate quarterback, supported by an elite offensive line. Transfers seek to bolster a defense under reconstruction after losing eight drafted starters.

Oregon’s Seasoned Squad

Oregon enters the season with notable experience, led by quarterback Dante Moore and a robust offensive unit of six returning starters. Their defense, featuring key players A’Mauri Washington and Matayo Uiagalelei, also sees eight returning starters. Southern California, although facing a tough schedule with games against Oregon and Ohio State, aims for a strong performance under coach Lincoln Riley. Jayden Maiava’s streak of 17 starts adds to USC’s capabilities.

Team Developments and New Coaches

Michigan looks to enhance offensive output, relying on quarterback Bryce Underwood’s development and the arrival of OC Jason Beck with Kyle Whittingham. Penn State under new coach Matt Campbell sees infusion of 24 players from Iowa State, including quarterback Rocco Becht, while bypassing matchups with dominant teams like Ohio State and Oregon.

Rising Teams and Scheduled Highlights

Washington faces a slightly harder schedule but retains dynamic quarterback Demond Williams Jr., aiming to continue growth under coach Jedd Fisch. Meanwhile, Illinois’s Katin Houser steps in as the fourth transfer quarterback in Bret Bielema’s tenure. Minnesota’s bowl success and Nebraska’s mixed outcomes highlight ongoing challenges for several teams. Wisconsin focuses on revitalizing their offense with new transfers, while UCLA and Northwestern look to rejuvenate their strategic approaches through managerial changes.

Important Matches to Watch

• Wisconsin vs. Notre Dame at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, September 6
• Oklahoma at Michigan, September 12
• Ohio State at Texas, September 12
• Oregon at USC, September 26
• USC at Penn State, October 10
• Ohio State at Indiana, October 17
• Ohio State at USC, October 31
• Oregon at Ohio State, November 7
• USC at Indiana, November 14
• Nebraska at Iowa, November 27
• Michigan at Ohio State, November 28