The 2025 Indiana Hoosiers achieved an impressive feat by winning the Big Ten and the national championship with an unbeaten 16-0 record. With 10 starters returning, Coach Curt Cignetti, and a favorable schedule, the Hoosiers are poised for continued success. Despite this, preseason attention focuses on Ohio State and Oregon, ranked first and second in the AP Top 25 poll.
Ohio State and Oregon are seen as formidable contenders. The Buckeyes will navigate a challenging schedule, including a visit to Indiana on October 17 and hosting Oregon on November 7, which will impact the Big Ten championship and College Football Playoff (CFP) positions. Ohio State’s strengths include receiver Jeremiah Smith, quarterback Julian Sayin, and an elite offensive line. With many talented transfers, they aim to overcome the loss of eight defensive starters.
Oregon’s team boasts significant experience with quarterback Dante Moore, six returning offensive starters, and a defense led by key players A’Mauri Washington and Matayo Uiagalelei. Southern California’s Coach Lincoln Riley brings a strong team but faces home games against Oregon and Ohio State and travels to Indiana. Michigan hopes for offensive improvements with QB Bryce Underwood and new OC Jason Beck. Penn State’s new coach, Matt Campbell, adds depth with 24 transfers, including QB Rocco Becht, while avoiding games against major contenders.
Teams to Watch
Washington looks to grow with dynamic QB Demond Williams Jr. and Coach Jedd Fisch, despite a tough schedule. Illinois has new QB Katin Houser and hopes for a strong season under Coach Bret Bielema. Minnesota remains a formidable opponent with QB Drake Lindsey and player Anthony Smith.
Nebraska’s Coach Matt Rhule faces a challenging schedule after a mixed record. Wisconsin seeks a revitalized offense with transfers Colton Joseph and Abu Sama III. UCLA’s QB Nico Iamaleava returns with many player transfers. Northwestern strengthened their coaching team with Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator. Maryland possesses QB talent in Malik Washington but must strengthen its defense.
Michigan State aims to improve under new Coach Pat Fitzgerald. Rutgers and Purdue have struggled in recent seasons, with Purdue losing their last 18 Big Ten matches.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Wisconsin vs. Notre Dame at Lambeau Field on September 6
- Oklahoma at Michigan on September 12
- Ohio State at Texas on September 12
- Oregon at USC on September 26
- USC at Penn State on October 10
- Ohio State at Indiana on October 17
- Ohio State at USC on October 31
- Oregon at Ohio State on November 7
- USC at Indiana on November 14
- Nebraska at Iowa on November 27
- Michigan at Ohio State on November 28