As the 2026 college football season approaches, ESPN analyst Bill Connelly has released his early projections for the Big Ten, identifying a trio of programs that stand out as the most likely to vie for the conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Top Contenders
Ohio State emerges as the favorite, buoyed by what Connelly describes as the conference’s top projected defense and an offense ranked No. 2 nationally. The Buckeyes’ blend of returning talent and strategic recruiting positions them as a formidable force. Alongside Ohio State, Oregon and Indiana also appear near the summit of Connelly’s list, each praised for balanced rosters and the potential impact of key transfers that could reshape their dynamics.
Key Matchups
The schedule already features several marquee confrontations that could influence the race. A October 17 showdown sees Ohio State traveling to Indiana, while a November 7 clash pits Oregon against the Buckeyes in a game that could serve as a de facto playoff preview. Additional high‑profile contests include USC’s visit to Penn State on October 10, Indiana’s trip to Michigan on October 24, and Indiana’s later meeting with Washington on November 21.
Transfer Landscape
Connelly also highlighted a handful of transfers that could tip the balance for their new teams. Ohio State’s safety Terry Moore, Indiana’s quarterback Josh Hoover, and UCLA’s running back Wayne Knight are among the players whose moves have attracted particular attention.
The ripple effects of these moves extend beyond individual performances, influencing team chemistry and depth charts as coaches fine‑tune their strategies heading into the season. With the non‑conference slate still taking shape, the early predictions set the stage for a competitive Big Ten campaign, promising fans a series of compelling storylines as the season unfolds.