2025 College Football Season: USA Today’s Preseason Re-Rankings for the Big Ten

Excitement Builds as College Football Season Kicks Off with Surprising Rankings

As the 2025 college football season approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high, fueled by the recent release of the USA TODAY Coaches’ Preseason Top 25 poll. For the first time, the Texas Longhorns have been crowned the nation’s No. 1 team, a title they share with the Associated Press, which ranked them ahead of second-place Penn State. However, as the season gears up for its Week 0 action, a new twist has emerged from USA TODAY’s expanded rankings, shaking up expectations across the board.

This Saturday, college football fans will be treated to a thrilling kickoff featuring No. 22 Iowa State versus No. 17 Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland, marking the start of what many believe could be one of the most exhilarating seasons yet.

In a bold move, USA TODAY has re-ranked all 136 FBS programs, revealing a surprising new leader in the Big Ten: the Penn State Nittany Lions. This shift comes as a shock to many, as both the Coaches and AP polls had previously placed Texas at the top. USA TODAY’s Paul Myerberg justified the change, citing Penn State’s stability and experience, particularly with senior quarterback Drew Allar and standout running backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton returning from last season’s playoff run.

Meanwhile, the defending national champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes, have slipped from their No. 2 spot in the Coaches Poll to No. 6 in USA TODAY’s rankings. The Buckeyes face significant changes, including a new starting quarterback, redshirt freshman Julian Sayin, and a revamped defense. Despite these challenges, Ohio State still boasts star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and standout defensive back Caleb Downs.

The Oregon Ducks, who finished the 2024 season undefeated and claimed the Big Ten championship, now find themselves in a precarious position. With the departure of key players, including quarterback Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks will rely on redshirt sophomore Dante Moore to lead the charge in 2025.

Among the dark horses this season is the Illinois Fighting Illini, coming off a successful 10-win season. Under head coach Bret Bielema, Illinois returns a strong roster, including quarterback Luke Altmyer and pass rusher Gabe Jacas, positioning them as a formidable contender in the Big Ten.

The Michigan Wolverines, now in their second year under head coach Sherrone Moore, are generating buzz with the addition of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood and former Alabama running back Justice Haynes. Despite recent NCAA penalties, the Wolverines are eager to prove their mettle this season.

As the season unfolds, the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Indiana Hoosiers, and Iowa Hawkeyes are also looking to make their mark, each with promising rosters and coaching strategies aimed at elevating their programs.

With the stage set and the rankings reshuffled, college football fans are bracing for a season filled with surprises, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. As the countdown to kickoff continues, one thing is clear: the 2025 college football season promises to be a thrilling ride.