The Big Ten is gearing up for the playoff push as we head into Week 14. While Indiana’s reputation may take a hit after a tough loss to Ohio State, the league’s top four teams are almost guaranteed their spots in the College Football Playoff (CFP). The rest of the conference, however, presents a more chaotic picture, with teams vying for bowl eligibility and pride. Let’s break down the current power rankings and what they mean for the teams involved.
Big Ten Power Rankings for Week 14
Here’s a closer look at how the teams stack up heading into the final week of the regular season.
#1. Oregon (11-0)
Oregon remains at the top of the college football landscape after a week off. The Ducks are not just playing for a playoff spot; they are aiming for a bye in the CFP. With a rematch against Ohio State looming in the Big Ten title game, they are keen to maintain their momentum.
#2. Ohio State (10-1)
Ohio State delivered a commanding performance against Indiana, solidifying their position as one of the hottest teams in the nation. Despite their loss earlier in the season, they are poised to make a deep playoff run. Will Michigan provide any real challenge this week?
#3. Penn State (10-1)
Penn State’s recent performance has kept them in the playoff conversation, even if they didn’t dominate Minnesota as expected. With a matchup against Maryland on the horizon, their playoff spot seems secure, barring any unexpected setbacks.
#4. Indiana (10-1)
Despite the loss to Ohio State, Indiana’s overall performance this season has been commendable. They’ve managed to secure their place in the CFP, but they’ll need to bounce back against Purdue to solidify their standing. Can they prove the doubters wrong?
#5. Illinois (8-3)
Illinois has emerged as the best of the rest outside the top four, showcasing resilience with a late rally to secure their eighth win. With Northwestern on the schedule, they should be able to maintain their position in the rankings.
#6. Iowa (7-4)
The Hawkeyes have had a solid season, finishing strong against Maryland. They find themselves in a comfortable middle tier, just below the playoff contenders. With a respectable 8-4 record, they are positioned well for a bowl game.
#7. USC (6-5)
USC has faced a tough schedule but managed to secure bowl eligibility with a late-season win over UCLA. As they prepare to host Notre Dame, they must navigate this challenging matchup to maintain their momentum.
#8. Minnesota (6-5)
The Gophers came close to a significant upset against Penn State but fell short. They will have a chance to play spoiler in their final game against Wisconsin, which could impact their rivals’ bowl aspirations.
#9. Washington (6-5)
After a week off, Washington faces a tough road game against Oregon. Their season has been a rollercoaster, and they need to find a way to secure a bowl game to end on a high note.
#10. Michigan (6-5)
The Wolverines have secured their bowl eligibility, which is a relief as they prepare for a daunting matchup against Ohio State. This game will be crucial for both teams, but Michigan has a lot to prove.
#11. Nebraska (6-5)
Ending a four-game losing streak has revitalized Nebraska’s season. They are still in the hunt for a winning record, but a tough matchup against Iowa looms ahead. Can they clinch a bowl game?
#12. Rutgers (6-5)
Rutgers suffered a disappointing loss to Illinois, but they remain bowl eligible. A win against Michigan State could elevate their standing in the rankings, making this a pivotal matchup.
#13. Michigan State (5-6)
The Spartans managed to scrape by with a win over Purdue, keeping their bowl hopes alive. Hosting Rutgers will be a crucial game for them, as they look to finish the season on a positive note.
#14. Wisconsin (5-6)
Wisconsin’s loss to Nebraska has left them needing a win against Minnesota to secure bowl eligibility. It’s been a challenging season for the Badgers, and they’ll need to dig deep in their final game.
#15. UCLA (4-7)
The Bruins’ season has been disappointing, especially after blowing a fourth-quarter lead against USC. With a final matchup against Fresno State, they will look to end their season on a high note, but a bowl game is out of reach.
#16. Maryland (4-7)
Maryland’s loss to Iowa has officially knocked them out of bowl contention. With a tough game against Penn State ahead, they will need to focus on rebuilding for next season.
#17. Northwestern (4-7)
Northwestern’s season has been marred by struggles, highlighted by a crushing loss to Michigan. They have secured a spot at the bottom of the rankings, and their final game against Illinois will be a chance to salvage some pride.
#18. Purdue (1-10)
For Purdue, the best news is that the season is coming to an end. With only one win to their name, they will look to finish strong against Indiana, but it’s been a tough year for the Boilermakers.
What do you think of the Big Ten Power Rankings? As the regular season wraps up, the stakes are high, and every game counts. The playoff picture is becoming clearer, but there’s still plenty of drama left to unfold.
