As the 2026 college football season approaches, the Big Ten is poised for a dramatic showdown. USA TODAY’s Paul Myerberg has released his latest rankings, placing the Ohio State Buckeyes, Indiana Hoosiers, and Oregon Ducks at the summit of the conference.
Championship pedigrees and new ambitions
Indiana entered the conversation after completing a perfect 16‑0 campaign in 2025, capturing the national title and cementing its recent dominance. The Buckeyes, meanwhile, secured a 14‑2 championship run in 2024, adding another trophy to their storied history.
Oregon, despite a 46‑8 record under head coach Dan Lanning, has yet to claim a national championship. The Ducks’ consistent excellence in the Big Ten, however, has kept them in the top tier, and Myerberg believes their trajectory points toward a potential title run.
Key players and offensive firepower
The Ducks’ offense will be anchored by quarterback Dante Moore, whose emergence has sparked optimism among fans and analysts alike. Coupled with a talented backfield duo and an offensive line projected to rank among the nation’s best, Oregon’s attack looks poised to challenge traditional powerhouses.
Defensively, Oregon returns four starting linemen, bolstering a secondary that could become one of the conference’s most formidable units. The combination of seasoned veterans and emerging talent suggests a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.
Beyond the field, Oregon fans remain hopeful that the program will soon match the achievements of Ohio State and Indiana. The anticipation reflects a broader belief that the Ducks are on the cusp of breaking through and securing their first national championship.