2026 BIG TEN CONFERENCE PREDICTIONS

I'm using a different approach this season. for my predictions for Conference Champions. Teams will be divided into 3 sections. 

TOP TIER: These teams have the best chances to win the conference IMO. I will pick ONE team as my favorite.

MIDDLE TIER: These teams have to many holes to be considered favorites; some teams will be marked as DARKHORSE teams. These teams have the best chance to elevate their season into the TOP TIER. They will have one or more of several traits. Excellent talent but lack experience at key positions, an easy schedule missing numerous teams with better talent, or getting top teams at home, or a combination. Finally, a HC with a track record of success can move the needle in their favor.

BOTTOM TIER: These teams have NO CHANCE for the top spot in the conference IMO and will finish out of the Playoff/Conference Title hunt.

2026 BIG 10 SEASON PREDICTIONS 

TOP TIER:                                      

Ohio St **                           

Oregon                                 

Penn St                                  

Indiana                                 

********                                

MIDDLE TIER:

USC*                                

Iowa                                

Washington

Michigan

UCLA

********         

BOTTOM TIER:

Illinois

Nebraska

Minnesota

Wisconsin

Northwestern

Michigan St

Maryland

Purdue

Rutgers

**Denotes Conference Champion

*  Denotes Darkhorse

CONFERENCE TEAM NOTES: