
The Big Ten is coming off a strong season, with three straight national champions, and is looking to continue its success in 2026. The league has expanded to 18 schools, stretching from Los Angeles to Piscataway, and is expected to be highly competitive. Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana are the favorites to win the Big Ten Championship Game, according to the preseason AP Top 25 poll.
These teams have strong rosters and are expected to perform well. Ohio State will be led by quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith, while Oregon will benefit from the return of quarterback Dante Moore. Indiana, the reigning national champion, has assembled a strong roster and is looking to make its third straight appearance in the College Football Playoff.
Other teams, such as USC, Michigan, and Penn State, are also expected to compete for a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game. USC has high expectations after boosting revenue spending and making personnel moves, while Michigan is starting fresh with a new coach and quarterback Bryce Underwood. Penn State, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season under new coach Matt Campbell.
Related: F1 drivers contract lengths revealed
Washington, Wisconsin, and UCLA are also potential contenders in the Big Ten. They have the talent and coaching to make a run for the championship, but will need to perform consistently throughout the season. The Big Ten Championship odds have Indiana as the favorite, followed closely by Ohio State and Oregon.
Indiana is looking to repeat as national champion and has a strong roster to do so. The team has added several key transfers and has a talented receiving corps.
The team’s schedule sets up perfectly for a run to the Big Ten Championship Game, and they could be headed to Indianapolis.
Penn State is a sleeper pick to win the Big Ten Championship. The team has a new coach in Matt Campbell, who has brought several of his former Iowa State players with him to Happy Valley.
Related: Hellebuyck pushes for trade amid contract standoff
The Big Ten Conference has a rich history and a strong reputation for producing talented teams and players.
Coaches and players are preparing for the season. They will need to work together to achieve their goals.
Indiana’s chances of winning the championship are high. They have a strong roster and a favorable schedule.