The 2026 Big Ten power rankings have been released, and the Ohio State Buckeyes sit at the top of the list. Their combination of elite talent, a challenging schedule, and a strong coaching staff makes them the clear favorite heading into the new season.
Leading the Buckeyes’ offense is wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, widely regarded as the best receiver in college football, while quarterback Julian Sayin enters his second year as a starter after topping the FBS in completion percentage last season.
Close behind Ohio State, the Oregon Ducks hold the second spot. After a breakout year in which Dante Moore guided the team to a 13‑2 record, the quarterback returns to lead a roster that many expect to contend for the conference title.
The Indiana Hoosiers, fresh off a 2025‑26 College Football Playoff National Championship, are ranked third. Despite losing several key players, the Hoosiers bolstered their squad with high‑impact transfers and remain a formidable threat.
USC Trojans round out the top four, boasting the most returning starters in FBS with fifteen. Their depth could prove decisive as the season unfolds.
Michigan Wolverines have made a notable coaching change, hiring Kyle Whittingham, who spent 18 seasons at Utah delivering a winning record each year. His defensive pedigree is expected to reshape the Wolverines’ identity.
Washington Huskies sit at sixth, anchored by dual‑threat quarterback Demond Williams Jr., whose dynamic skill set adds a new dimension to the offense.
The middle tier of the conference features several compelling storylines. Iowa State Cyclones and Penn State Nittany Lions are both led by experienced coaches, while the Iowa Hawkeyes celebrated a program‑record seven draft picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Minnesota Golden Gophers finished the previous season undefeated at home but struggled on the road, finishing 0‑5 away. Their home‑field advantage could be a key factor in upcoming matchups.
Nebraska Cornhuskers will rely on new quarterback Anthony Colandrea, the 2025‑26 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, to inject fresh energy into their offense.
Illinois Fighting Illini have appointed Bobby Hauck as defensive coordinator, while Northwestern Wildcats brought in Chip Kelly to run their offense, hoping his proven winning formula translates to the Big Ten.
UCLA Bruins hired Bob Chesney, a coach with a strong record of success, to lead a roster that includes freshman quarterback Malik Washington, who set a program passing‑yard record as a freshman.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights return key players KJ Duff and Antwan Raymond, but questions linger at quarterback and on defense. Meanwhile, Wisconsin Badgers have invested heavily in their program, naming Colton Joseph as their new signal‑caller.