The 2026 season promises an intriguing landscape for Big Ten football, with a mix of established powerhouses and teams aiming to climb the ranks. Here's a breakdown of projected win-loss records for each team, along with insights and commentary.
Purdue Boilermakers
Projected Record: 1-11 (0-9 Big Ten)
Purdue continues to struggle, with a projected winless conference record. Coach Barry Odom's second year hasn't brought the expected improvement, and the team remains at the bottom of the Big Ten.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Projected Record: 2-10 (0-9 Big Ten)
The Scarlet Knights face challenges with the loss of experienced quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis. Running back Antwan Raymond will carry the load, but a porous defense suggests a winless conference season.
Northwestern Wildcats
Projected Record: 3-9 (1-8 Big Ten)
Northwestern's schedule is demanding, with key games against Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana, Penn State, and Iowa. Their up-and-down trend continues, with a projected down year.
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Projected Record: 5-7 (2-7 Big Ten)
Nebraska's transition to quarterback Anthony Colandrea is uncertain, with talent loss from last year. Coach Matt Rhule's squad faces regression, making it a challenging season.
Maryland Terrapins
Projected Record: 5-7 (3-6 Big Ten)
Maryland retains quarterback Malik Washington, offering hope for improvement. However, the team's overall talent is underwhelming, and bowl eligibility remains a distant goal.
Michigan State Spartans
Projected Record: 6-6 (4-5 Big Ten)
Pat Fitzgerald takes over, aiming to stabilize Michigan State. A .500 record in his first season would be a positive step towards relevancy.
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Projected Record: 6-6 (3-6 Big Ten)
Minnesota's schedule is tougher in 2026, with key games against Indiana, Penn State, Washington, Michigan, and Iowa. Despite bringing back quarterback Drake Lindsey, the team's roster lacks the depth for consistent wins.
Wisconsin Badgers
Projected Record: 7-5 (5-4 Big Ten)
Coach Luke Fickell's arrival brings optimism, with the addition of quarterback Colton Joseph. The Badgers should improve, reaching bowl eligibility.
UCLA Bruins
Projected Record: 7-5 (5-4 Big Ten)
UCLA's 2026 season looks promising with a new coaching staff and quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Seven wins are achievable, marking a solid improvement from last year.
Illinois Fighting Illini
Projected Record: 7-5 (4-5 Big Ten)
Despite a depleted roster, coach Bret Bielema is expected to maintain a winning record. Seven wins seem plausible, with a crucial non-conference game against Duke.
Michigan Wolverines
Projected Record: 7-5 (5-4 Big Ten)
Michigan's schedule is brutal, with key games against Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana, and Penn State. Quarterback Bryce Underwood's raw talent may struggle against these opponents.
USC Trojans
Projected Record: 8-4 (5-4 Big Ten)
USC's defense regressed in 2025, and the same is expected this year. Jayden Maiava's leadership at quarterback will be crucial, but closing deals in conference play remains a challenge.
Iowa Hawkeyes
Projected Record: 9-3 (6-3 Big Ten)
Iowa's consistent nine-win streak continues, with a tough stretch in the middle of the season. Their offense's lack of improvement limits their potential.
Washington Huskies
Projected Record: 9-3 (6-3 Big Ten)
Washington is close to Big Ten contender status but falls short with losses to Indiana and Oregon. The quarterback battle between Demond Williams Jr. and Jayden Maiava adds intrigue.
Penn State Nittany Lions
Projected Record: 10-2 (6-2 Big Ten)
Penn State enjoys a favorable schedule, with 10 wins projected. Coach Matt Campbell's leadership at Iowa State bodes well for the Nittany Lions' success.
Indiana Hoosiers
Projected Record: 11-1 (8-1 Big Ten)
Indiana's talent loss is offset by coach Curt Cignetti's transfer portal additions. Expect a strong push for a Big Ten title game berth.
Oregon Ducks
Projected Record: 11-1 (8-1 Big Ten)
Oregon's defense and quarterback Dante Moore make them a top contender. A third straight playoff berth is achievable, despite a loss to Ohio State.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Projected Record: 12-0 (9-0 Big Ten)
Ohio State's elite defense and quarterback Julian Sayin position them as a top seed in the College Football Playoff. A dominant season is expected.
