Who is the best team in the BIG 10?

By: Jones DesChamps

In a group of teams that finds itself immersed in chaos nearly every college football season, this season is nothing out of the ordinary for the BIG 10 conference.  Although this conference is filled with as much anarchy as ever, this season could be even more abnormal than usual. Nearly every season the debate ensues over “The Game”, which includes the star-studded match up between Michigan and Ohio State, but this season may shake out a little differently. Will one of these teams continue to rise to the top of the Big 10, or will one of the other newcomers take over this prestigious conference. 

To begin, it’s only right to talk about the tremendous success of the Buckeyes in the playoff era. These teams, led by Urban Meyer and Ryan Day, have produced nothing but wins. These Buckeyes, who have won the BIG 10 East 8 out of the last 9 seasons, certainly have to be the front-runner to win the conference. With a top 10 win against Notre Dame on the road this season, this explosive team looks to continue their success this season. Yes, this team’s rich history hints towards a conference championship this season, but the question at quarterback may be detrimental to this team’s final destination. 

Michigan, on the other hand, is the highest ranked team in the BIG 10. No, this team does not have an impressive win this season, but this Jim Harbaugh led team is experienced on both sides of the ball. JJ McCarthy, the Wolverine’s quarterback, is on pace to be a top quarterback in the country this season. Michigan has not lived up to the preseason hype given to them nearly every year throughout this decade, but last season’s Michigan team won the conference and produced their first playoff berth. The Wolverines lack of a true challenge this year may bite them in the rear when they are forced to play ranked teams later this year.  I believe this team is hungry to win, but may not have what it takes to take home a trophy. 

The last contender in the BIG 10, and maybe even the most talented team in this league is Penn State. Without sugar coating it, Penn State is the best team in their competitive conference. With an important game this weekend at the “Horseshoe”, this James Franklin led team looks to further their dominance this season. Drew Allar, one of the nation’s best quarterbacks, looks to guide the Nittany Lions out of Columbus with another W. The team in navy and white is highlighted by their stellar defense, as well. This well-rounded team will not only beat the top dogs in their league this season, but will reach the top of the mountain in the college football season, producing their first playoff berth.