Big Ten Football 2026 Season Preview

The 2026 college football season has arrived. The Indiana Hoosiers, the reigning national and Big Ten champions, made history last year by going 16-0. This year, 10 starters return, along with a highly regarded coach and a favorable schedule. However, most preseason attention focuses on Ohio State and Oregon, ranked 1st and 2nd in the preseason AP Top 25 poll.

Illinois

Bret Bielema, Illinois’ coach, spotlighted significant moments over the past two years that have sparked change at Gies Memorial Stadium. Notably, the energy during their 2024 win against Michigan, marking the stadium’s 100th anniversary, ended a 14-game losing streak against the Wolverines. Bielema values crowd influence, as seen in a thrilling win against USC. With 19 victories over the last two seasons, a record for Illinois, fan interest has surged. The team sold out public season tickets for the second consecutive year and expects to sell out student season tickets too.

Iowa

Kirk Ferentz enters his 28th season at Iowa, now ranked 22nd. Ferentz, the most victorious coach in Big Ten history, faces an early test with games against Michigan, Ohio State, and Washington. Iowa lost seven players to the NFL draft, but aims to win eight or nine games, continuing a streak of bowl appearances since 2020 (excluding the 2020 pandemic season).

Indiana

Ranked 6th, Indiana aims to defend their title. Without Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who was the NFL’s top draft pick, success depends on Josh Hoover’s ability to reduce turnovers in a more run-focused system. Indiana’s title pursuit begins on Sept. 5 against North Texas.

Maryland

Michael Locksley, in his eighth year at Maryland, turned the team into a bowl contender with Taulia Tagovailoa, but back-to-back losing seasons followed. QB Malik Washington impressed as a freshman, exceeding 2,500 passing yards and 300 rushing yards. Maryland’s streak of 18 straight nonconference wins remains, but inconsistent in-conference performances are an issue.

Michigan

Ranked 16th, Michigan faces a tough season. New coach Kyle Whittingham must deal with four top-10 opponents. QB Bryce Underwood, in his second season, is expected to stabilize the program after previous setbacks. Renowned quarterbacks coach Koy Detmer has joined to guide Underwood, who did not fully meet expectations last year.

Michigan State

Pat Fitzgerald starts his tenure at Michigan State, aiming to end a four-season losing streak. Following a controversial exit from Northwestern, Fitzgerald hopes to reinvigorate a program struggling since 2023. Michigan State has aspirations for a better future, trying to overcome previous challenges.

Minnesota

Minnesota QB Drake Lindsey, in his third year, leads an offense that evolved from traditional plays to diverse strategies. With a 40-25 record in the last five years, Minnesota remains competitive but seeks a breakthrough season.

Nebraska

Nebraska’s Matt Rhule faces mounting pressure with a 19-19 record over three seasons. Breaking a 30-game losing streak against Top 25 teams is a priority. QB Anthony Colandrea, 2025 Mountain West offensive player of the year, now faces tougher Big Ten defenses. Replacing Emmett Johnson’s production is crucial for success.

Northwestern

David Braun starts his fourth season with Northwestern, inspired by Indiana’s transformation. The team hopes for progress with new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and the launch of Ryan Field on Oct. 2. Alignment within the athletic department indicative of potential development.

Ohio State

Ranked No. 1, Ohio State targets a national title after a previous setback. The dynamic offense, led by QB Julian Sayin, WR Jeremiah Smith, and RB Bo Jackson, will navigate a challenging schedule. With a bolstered lineup and hard opponents, Ohio State’s defense will play a crucial role in achieving their goal.

Oregon

Ranked 2nd, Oregon eyes the national title with returning QB Dante Moore, who posted impressive stats last season. Despite past playoffs heartbreaks against Indiana, the team and Coach Dan Lanning are determined to claim victory after consistent semifinal appearances.

Penn State

Matt Campbell, formerly of Iowa State, revamps No. 18 Penn State. His approach involves retaining Coach Terry Smith, hiring DC D’Anton Lynn, and leveraging the transfer portal. With the return of key players like Tony Rojas, Penn State aims to reclaim its strong form.

Purdue

Purdue hopes to end an 18-game Big Ten losing streak under Coach Barry Odom’s guidance. Since Coach Jeff Brohm’s departure, the team seeks revival despite consistent lower league rankings, with optimism growing among fans.

Rutgers

Rutgers faces a QB decision between AJ Surace and transfer Dylan Lonergan in Coach Greg Schiano’s ball-control system. With prominent returnees like RB Antwan Raymond, the team’s offensive core stands to benefit from improved quarterback play.

UCLA

Bob Chesney, UCLA’s new coach, invigorates a flagging program with 62 new recruits and 42 transfers. Known for his winning record, Chesney actively connects with fans to enhance engagement at games. QB Nico Iamaleava hopes to thrive under new leadership as UCLA seeks resurgence.

USC

USC boasts a talented roster and ambitious goals. Coach Lincoln Riley, backed by strong facilities and resources, aims to steer No. 14 USC to a College Football Playoff appearance. With robust recruitment and seasoned starters, expectations are set high for a postseason breakthrough.

Washington

Ranked 17th, Washington is at a turning point in Jedd Fisch’s third year. Hosting top rivals at home, QB Demond Williams Jr.’s performance is crucial for success. Retaining 60 players from last season offers stability despite key departures.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin aims for a comeback after two losing seasons, bolstered by an initial game against No. 4 Notre Dame. The team benefits from avoiding top playoff contenders Ohio State, Indiana, and Oregon in the conference schedule.