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Adam Cairns / Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Week One Big Ten Power Rankings: Top Contenders for the CFP?

Originally posted on EasySportz | By Lee Bushkell | Last updated Aug 28, 2025 5:05 PM ET

#1: Ohio State Buckeyes: Julian Sayin’s ability to handle the pressure of replacing Will Howard, alongside stars like Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, will lead to a win over Texas and keep Ohio State in the national title hunt.

#2: Penn State Nittany Lions: Drew Allar’s efficiency, combined with a veteran roster and elite coordinators, will be critical for Penn State to finally overcome Ohio State and win the Big Ten.

#3: Oregon Ducks: Dante Moore’s breakout as a surprise quarterback and a bolstered defense led by Matayo Uiagalelei will position Oregon for another Big Ten title run.

#4: Illinois Fighting Illini: Illinois must leverage their top-10 defense, led by Gabe Jacas and Xavier Scott, to capitalize on a favorable schedule and secure a playoff berth.

Team Blue quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) makes a pass against Team Maize during the second half of the spring game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

#5: Michigan Wolverines: Bryce Underwood’s emergence as a freshman to improve the passing game will be key to Michigan’s playoff aspirations.

#6: USC Trojans: Jayden Maiava’s emergence as a reliable quarterback and D’Anton Lynn’s defensive schemes will drive USC toward a potential 9-win season.

#7: Washington Huskies: Demond Williams Jr.’s breakout as a dynamic quarterback, supported by Denzel Boston and a strong secondary, will help Washington rebound to a winning record.

#8: Indiana Hoosiers: Fernando Mendoza’s ability to replicate Kurtis Rourke’s success at quarterback, alongside a very manageable schedule, will determine if Indiana can return to the CFP.

Dec 28, 2024; Bronx, NY, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) throws the ball during the second half against the Boston College Eagles at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

#9: Nebraska Cornhuskers: Dylan Raiola’s development into an All-Big Ten quarterback and maintaining defensive strength will push Nebraska toward a 10-win season.

#10: Minnesota Golden Gophers: Darius Taylor’s health and emergence as a star running back will drive Minnesota’s success, despite a potentially underwhelming team record.

#11: Iowa Hawkeyes: Mark Gronowski’s integration as a dynamic quarterback to boost the passing game will be crucial for Iowa to exceed their projected 7-5 record.

#12: Wisconsin Badgers: Luke Fickell must find a reliable quarterback this season between Danny O’Neil and Billy Edwards Jr. to improve the offense to avoid another subpar season and mounting pressure.

#13: UCLA Bruins: Nico Iamaleava’s success as the transfer quarterback, paired with offensive line improvements, will be key to UCLA avoiding a tough 4-8 season.

#14: Northwestern Wildcats: Preston Stone’s performance as a transfer quarterback must spark the offense to help Northwestern achieve a surprising eight-win season.

#15: Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Rebuilding the defensive front with transfers like Eric O’Neill and Bradley Weaver, alongside a veteran offensive line, will help Rutgers achieve a third straight .500 season.

#16: Michigan State Spartans: Aidan Chiles reducing turnovers and capitalizing on new offensive weapons like Omari Kelly will determine if Jonathan Smith can avoid the hot seat.

#17: Maryland Terrapins: Avoiding a winless Big Ten season depends on new quarterback and true freshman Malik Washington and transfer additions at safety and tight end stepping up against a tough schedule.

#18: Purdue Boilermakers: Barry Odom’s massive transfer portal overhaul must quickly gel to improve Purdue’s dismal 1-11 record from last season.

This article first appeared on EasySportz and was syndicated with permission.

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