ESPN recently released its offseason rankings for every Big Ten college football team, offering fans and analysts insight into how each program has prepared for the upcoming 2025 season. The rankings take into account various factors including player transfers, recruiting success, coaching staff changes, and overall program momentum heading into the new season.
At the top of ESPN’s list are traditional powerhouses like Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State. These programs have not only retained key coaching personnel but also brought in high-profile recruits and transfers to fill important roster gaps. Michigan, for example, managed to maintain stability after the departure of head coach Jim Harbaugh to the NFL, promoting internally to keep continuity. Their recruiting class remains strong, ranked among the top in the nation, and their defense is expected to remain elite.
Ohio State made significant noise in the transfer portal, acquiring several experienced players to bolster both offense and defense. With a new quarterback stepping in and a highly-ranked recruiting class, the Buckeyes are poised to make a strong run at the Big Ten title. Penn State also had a productive offseason, with strong development across the roster and a few key pickups that should enhance their offensive production.
On the other side of the spectrum, teams like Indiana and Northwestern received lower grades from ESPN. These programs are in a rebuilding phase, struggling to retain top talent and lagging in recruiting rankings. Indiana’s coaching change and loss of starters to the portal present major challenges. Northwestern, still reeling from previous controversies and transitions, has a lot of ground to make up before returning to competitive form.
Newcomers to the Big Ten, such as USC and UCLA, also drew attention in the ESPN rankings. USC, with its elite quarterback play and national recruiting reach, was praised for its aggressive portal moves and depth-building. UCLA, while solid, didn’t make quite the same splash, but analysts expect them to be competitive in their debut Big Ten season.
Wisconsin, Iowa, and Nebraska also showed notable progress. Wisconsin is adapting well under head coach Luke Fickell, incorporating a more modern offensive scheme and drawing in key transfers. Iowa remains a defensive powerhouse but faces questions on the offensive side, particularly around quarterback play. Nebraska, under Matt Rhule, had a strong recruiting haul and is building a foundation for long-term success.
ESPN’s rankings serve as a useful snapshot of the Big Ten landscape as the season approaches. While preseason rankings don’t guarantee on-field results, they highlight the momentum (or lack thereof) each program carries into summer training camps. With the Big Ten expanding and competition intensifying, the offseason has become just as crucial as the regular season for shaping the path to the conference title and potential College Football Playoff appearances.
Overall, ESPN’s analysis provides a clear look at which programs are rising, which are holding steady, and which face a tough road ahead in the ever-evolving world of Big Ten football.
