The Big Ten’s four-team power quartet remained undisturbed in Week 12, showcasing the competitive spirit and resilience that defines college football. As the season progresses, teams are feeling the pressure, and the stakes are higher than ever. With thrilling matchups on the horizon, fans are eager to see how the rankings will shake out as we approach the playoff picture.
Big Ten Power Rankings after Week 12
Oregon faced a tough challenge from Wisconsin but managed to secure a narrow 16-13 victory. This win keeps the Ducks firmly in the playoff conversation, as they remain undefeated at 11-0. However, not every team had such fortune this week. Nebraska’s season has taken a dramatic turn, shifting from hopeful beginnings to a potential nightmare scenario. After starting the season with a promising 5-1 record, they now find themselves at a crossroads, desperately needing to secure a sixth win.
1. Oregon (11-0)
The Ducks posted a survive-and-advance win over Wisconsin and now have only a meeting with Washington left in the regular season. Their path to an undefeated season would look easier if Indiana takes down Ohio State, but either way, it’s the Big Ten title game and then the CFP.
2. Indiana (10-0)
IU is about to play its biggest game in the program’s history, in all likelihood. The good news is that even if they lose to Ohio State, they’re going to the playoff. But in a season where nobody gave Indiana much chance, the chip will be back on the shoulder against the Buckeyes this week.
3. Ohio State (9-1)
Northwestern was no challenge, and now OSU faces the season’s most unexpected battle. It would have been unthinkable for Ohio State and Indiana to be a showdown between two certain CFP teams, but here we are.
4. Penn State (9-1)
PSU is locked in for the playoff, with an 88.2% shot per FPI. The Nittany Lions don’t have much to fear from Minnesota or Maryland and have the best odds of winning in the Big Ten (partly because they can’t make the Big Ten title game). Still, 11-1 and in the playoff will certainly work.
5. Illinois (7-3)
The Illini got the better of Michigan State 38-16, and with Rutgers and Northwestern ahead, they are likely to lock down the “Best of the Rest” spot as the best non-CFP teams in the Big Ten.
As we delve deeper into the rankings, it’s essential to highlight the teams that have struggled this season. Purdue remains at the bottom of the standings with a dismal 1-9 record, marking a brutal season for the Boilermakers. They have consistently faced challenges, and their latest loss only adds to the disappointment.
18. Purdue (1-9)
Another week, another ugly loss. Purdue has had a brutal season, placing last in the Big Ten by a mile.
17. Northwestern (4-6)
Losing to Ohio State wasn’t surprising, but the Wildcats didn’t put up much of a fight. Per ESPN’s FPI ratings, they have just a seven percent shot at six wins.
16. Maryland (4-6)
This was Maryland’s best shot at bowl eligibility, but a two-score loss to Rutgers probably ends that hope. Their 2.1% shot at six wins is undoubtedly not a bet many will be taking.
15. Michigan State (4-6)
After a road loss at Illinois, the Spartans must now win their last two games against Purdue and Rutgers to salvage something this season. Victories might still keep the faint hopes of bowl eligibility alive.
14. UCLA (4-6)
The Bruins suffered a tough 19-31 loss to Washington and now have less than a 1-in-5 shot at bowl eligibility. It’s been an up-and-down season, but now they look more likely to finish down than up.
13. Nebraska (5-5)
After a 5-1 start, Nebraska looked to have turned over a new leaf. However, after losing four in a row, the fear of finishing 5-7 is real. FPI gives Nebraska a 60% shot at finding a sixth win, but that represents a massive downward move of that likelihood since the days of 5-1.
12. Michigan (5-5)
The defending champs were off this week. Northwestern next week at home should still get Michigan to six wins, but Ohio State in Week 14 doesn’t look very likely.
11. Wisconsin (5-5)
The Badgers gave Oregon a tough battle but couldn’t hold a fourth-quarter lead in a game that could have been a season-defining upset. Nebraska will battle USC for the sixth win in their upcoming game, and the Badgers aim to look sharper in Week 14.
10. USC (5-5)
It’s been an ugly season, but a win against Nebraska with a new quarterback suggests a run to finish on a positive note, which is still plausible. FPI gives the Trojans an 82% shot at a sixth win.
9. Washington (6-5)
The Huskies earned bowl eligibility by outlasting UCLA 31-19. Many are noticing Michigan’s struggles, but Washington’s were much more expected in light of the program overhaul. Still, a bowl is a start.
8. Rutgers (6-4)
Rutgers also claimed its bowl availability with a nice win over Maryland. An 8-4 finish could still be in the cards, which would be an impressive season.
7. Minnesota (6-4)
The Gophers were off and now have a tough two-game stretch to finish. Playing against Penn State and Wisconsin means Minnesota may finish 6-6 and down a few spots on this list.
6. Iowa (6-4)
The Hawkeyes were off and stayed toward the top of the Big Ten’s second tier. They’ve got a good shot to finish 8-4 with Maryland and Nebraska ahead.
As we look ahead, the upcoming matchups are sure to provide even more excitement and drama. With teams vying for bowl eligibility and playoff spots, every game counts. What do you think of the Big Ten Power Rankings? Share your thoughts below!
