The Indiana Hoosiers football team achieved a historic feat in 2025. They won the Big Ten and national championship, completing a perfect 16-0 season. This marked the first time in the modern era for such a victory. With ten starters returning and a coach at the height of his career, the team’s schedule appears favorable.
Despite their success, Ohio State and Oregon are gaining more preseason attention. Both schools are ranked 1-2 in the AP Top 25 poll, out of eight ranked teams. The consensus in college football circles points to the Buckeyes and Ducks being strong contenders. The Hoosiers’ momentum might slow, as they start TCU transfer Josh Hoover, replacing Heisman winner and NFL draft top pick, Fernando Mendoza.
Coach Curt Cignetti has an outstanding record of 27-2 with two College Football Playoff appearances at Indiana. He remains confident in his team’s potential. In the College Football Playoff national championship, Indiana’s victory over Miami demonstrated their capabilities under Cignetti’s guidance.
Key Games and Strategies
Ohio State faces a challenging conference schedule. They will visit Indiana on October 17 and host Oregon on November 7. These matchups will be crucial in determining Big Ten championship game contenders in Indianapolis and affecting College Football Playoff rankings. Ohio State is prepared with elite players like wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and quarterback Julian Sayin, supported by a robust offensive line. Their defense is ready to shine with new talent replacing eight drafted starters.
Oregon is a seasoned team, with quarterback Dante Moore and six offensive starters returning. Their defense, led by A’Mauri Washington and Matayo Uiagalelei, has eight returning starters, ensuring solid performance.
Potential Challengers
Southern California’s coach Lincoln Riley enters his fifth season with his strongest team yet, though they face a challenging schedule with key games against Oregon and Ohio State, and a trip to Indiana. QB Jayden Maiava has an impressive streak of 17 consecutive starts.
Michigan aims to enhance its offensive output. QB Bryce Underwood is expected to progress with the help of OC Jason Beck, joining from Utah alongside Kyle Whittingham. First-year coach Matt Campbell at Penn State brought in several players from Iowa State, including QB Rocco Becht, benefiting from not facing Ohio State, Oregon, or Indiana.
Teams to Watch
Washington welcomes back QB Demond Williams Jr., resolving previous disputes about compensation. If the Huskies can refurbish their defense, they can advance under coach Jedd Fisch, even with a tougher schedule.
Additional Insights
Illinois quarterback Katin Houser addressed the media during Big Ten football media days, highlighting their quest for consistent QB performance under coach Bret Bielema’s leadership. Minnesota aims to continue its impressive record against ranked teams, with QB Drake Lindsey and edge defender Anthony Smith offering solid performances. Nebraska faces the most grueling late-season schedule, while Wisconsin looks to reinvigorate its offense with key transfers.
This season holds significant promise and challenges for Big Ten teams. As they prepare for the upcoming matches, each team’s journey will affect their standings and aspirations.
Notable Upcoming Games
- Wisconsin vs. Notre Dame, at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Sept. 6
- Oklahoma at Michigan, Sept. 12
- Ohio State at Texas, Sept. 12
- Oregon at USC, Sept. 26
- USC at Penn State, Oct. 10
- Ohio State at Indiana, Oct. 17
- Ohio State at USC, Oct. 31
- Oregon at Ohio State, Nov. 7
- USC at Indiana, Nov. 14
- Nebraska at Iowa, Nov. 27
- Michigan at Ohio State, Nov. 28