Just when you thought the college football season was over, CBS Sports drops a bombshell: their Way-Too-Early 2026 rankings for the Big Ten. But here's where it gets controversial—Indiana, fresh off a 16-0 national championship season, sits atop the list. Can they really do it again? And this is the part most people miss: the ripple effects of coaching changes, transfer portal moves, and defensive reloads that could shake up the entire conference. Let’s dive into the rankings and unpack the bold predictions, starting with the teams at the top and working our way down.
1. Indiana
Indiana isn’t just riding the wave of last season’s success—they’re building on it. With a 16-0 record and a national title under their belt, the Hoosiers are reloading for 2026. Head Coach Curt Cignetti brings in TCU’s Josh Hoover to replace Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza at quarterback. But it’s not just about offense; the defense returns key players like Rolijah Hardy and Tyrique Tucker. Bold question: Can Indiana repeat as champions, or will the target on their back prove too heavy?
2. Ohio State
The Buckeyes are a perennial powerhouse, and 2026 looks no different. With QB Julian Sayin, WR Jeremiah Smith, and RB Bo Jackson returning, Ohio State’s offense is a force to be reckoned with. But here’s the catch: their defense lost Arvell Reese, Caleb Downs, and others. While they landed Alabama’s Qua Russaw and Christian Alliegro in the transfer portal, will it be enough to fill the gaps?
3. Oregon
Since joining the Big Ten, Oregon has been on an upward trajectory. Dan Lanning led the Ducks to a conference title in 2024 and a deeper playoff run in 2025. With QB Dante Moore back and Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola waiting in the wings, the offense looks solid. However, Lanning must prove he can replicate success without coordinators Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi. Controversial take: Can Oregon finally win it all, or will they fall short again?
4. Michigan
After the Sherrone Moore scandal, Michigan landed Kyle Whittingham, who steps in after leaving Utah. With QB Bryce Underwood returning, Whittingham’s tough, disciplined culture could be a game-changer in Ann Arbor. But here’s the real question: Can Michigan compete for the conference title, or will they remain just outside the playoff picture?
5. USC
USC’s Jayden Maiava is back at quarterback, giving the Trojans a strong foundation. Lincoln Riley reloaded through the transfer portal, adding Terrell Anderson and Tanook Haines. However, the loss of Defensive Coordinator D’Anton Lynn to Penn State could be their Achilles’ heel. Will USC’s defense step up, or will it hold them back from reaching the next level?
6. Washington
Demond Williams’ decision to return to the Huskies was a huge win for Washington. Head Coach Jedd Fisch, once rumored for Penn State, is building something out west. However, the team must replace key departures at running back and wide receiver. Can Washington’s offense live up to Big Ten standards, or will they struggle to find consistency?
7. Penn State
The Nittany Lions transition from James Franklin to Matt Campbell in 2026. Campbell brings a strong resume from Iowa State, and QB Rocco Becht followed him to Happy Valley. With other Cyclones joining the fold, Penn State could be competitive immediately. But will they rise above the middle tier of the Big Ten, or is this just another rebuilding year?
8. Iowa
Iowa is the definition of consistency under Kirk Ferentz. However, the quarterback position remains a question mark, with Jeremy Hecklinski or Hank Brown vying for the starting role. Can the Hawkeyes maintain their steady performance, or will inexperience at QB derail their season?
9. Minnesota
The Golden Gophers flew under the radar with eight wins in 2025. With RB Darius Taylor and QB Drake Lindsey returning, the offense should be solid. Defensive end Anthony Smith anchors the defense, but can P.J. Fleck elevate Minnesota out of the middle tier of the Big Ten?
10. Nebraska
Nebraska rounds out the top 10, but questions loom. With Dylan Raiola gone to Oregon, the Cornhuskers turn to Anthony Colandrea at quarterback. Without RB Emmett Johnson, the offense will rely heavily on Colandrea. Can he step up, or will Nebraska struggle to find its footing?
The Rest of the Pack
Rounding out the rankings are Illinois (11), UCLA (12), Northwestern (13), Rutgers (14), Wisconsin (15), Michigan State (16), Maryland (17), and Purdue (18). UCLA stands out with new head coach Bob Chesney, who comes from James Madison after a playoff appearance. Will Chesney’s arrival spark a turnaround for the Bruins, or will they remain in the lower half of the conference?
As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: the Big Ten is loaded with talent, drama, and potential upsets. What’s your take? Do you agree with these rankings, or is there a team you think is being overlooked? Let’s debate in the comments!
