2024 Big Ten power rankings show that Penn State and Michigan are on the rise. A captivating overtime clash between No. 22 Nebraska and No. 24 Illinois set the stage for an exhilarating matchup between two storied college football programs, No. 11 USC and No. 18 Michigan. This encounter showcased the excitement and competitiveness that the Big Ten has cultivated in its quest to be recognized as one of the premier conferences in the nation.
Meanwhile, Ohio State and Penn State continued their dominance, both delivering commanding victories over teams outside the Power 4 conferences. As they lead the standings, they are undeniably the top contenders in the conference as the regular season progresses.
[Related: RJ Young’s College Football Top 25]
Below are the latest Big Ten Power Rankings:
1. Ohio State (3-0 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: 49-14 home win over Marshall
After a tied first quarter, the Ohio State offense surged, showcasing a well-rounded attack. Running back Quinshon Judkins dazzled with 173 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 carries, including a game-changing 86-yard run. His partner, TreVeyon Henderson, added to the momentum with an impressive average of 12.7 yards per carry and two touchdowns on six touches. The Buckeyes amassed 280 rushing yards and five touchdowns, supporting quarterback Will Howard, who completed 16 of 20 passes for 275 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith both contributed with over 70 receiving yards and a touchdown each. Ohio State’s defense, though occasionally struggling to apply pressure, held Marshall scoreless in the second half and limited them to just 2.9 yards per carry on 43 attempts. The Buckeyes will kick off conference play next week against Michigan State.
2. Penn State (3-0 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: 56-0 home win over Kent State
3. Oregon (3-0 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
The Ducks took a much-needed break after their most commanding victory of the season against Oregon State. They are set to face UCLA to open Big Ten play on September 28.
4. Michigan (2-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 27-24 home win over No. 11 USC
5. Illinois (4-0 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 31-24 OT road win over No. 22 Nebraska
In a thrilling contest marking the 400th consecutive sellout at Memorial Stadium, Illinois and Nebraska battled into overtime. Running back Kaden Feagin set the tone with a 21-yard run on Illinois’ first play of the extra session, paving the way for quarterback Luke Altmyer to deliver a short touchdown pass. Altmyer excelled against a tough defense, completing 21 of 27 passes for 215 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. The Illinois defense, led by coordinator Aaron Henry, who faced personal loss that week, rose to the challenge, preventing any points in the fourth quarter and overtime. The Illini defense sacked Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola three times during the Cornhuskers’ overtime possession, pushing them back beyond midfield. This victory marks Illinois’ first 4-0 start since 2011.
6. USC (2-1 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 27-24 road loss to No. 18 Michigan
7. Nebraska (3-1 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 31-24 OT home loss to No. 24 Illinois
Despite a strong performance, Nebraska faced a familiar disappointment against Illinois. Freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola showcased his talent, completing 24 of 35 passes for 297 yards and three touchdowns. The Cornhuskers’ defense also made strides, forcing two fumbles, which contributed to a positive turnover ratio compared to last season’s struggles. However, the game ended in heartbreak as Nebraska suffered its 25th consecutive loss to ranked opponents, falling to 3-18 in one-possession games since 2021.
8. Iowa (3-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 31-14 road win over Minnesota
Iowa’s offense is gradually improving, particularly in scoring and rushing. Despite ranking low in passing offense, the Hawkeyes have found success on the ground, with standout tailback Kaleb Johnson leading the nation with 685 rushing yards. Johnson’s impressive performance against Minnesota, where he rushed for 206 yards and three touchdowns, illustrates Iowa’s evolving offensive strategy.
9. Washington (3-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 24-5 home win over Northwestern
Washington’s defense has emerged as a surprising strength this season, ranking 11th nationally in total defense. The Huskies’ recent performance against Northwestern showcased their defensive prowess, limiting the Wildcats to just 112 total yards and forcing them to convert only two of 13 third downs. Head coach Jedd Fisch praised the team’s extraordinary effort, highlighting the shift in focus from offense to defense.
10. Indiana (4-0 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 52-14 home win over Charlotte
Indiana continues to impress under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, achieving another convincing victory. The Hoosiers rank high in offensive statistics, demonstrating their effectiveness against lesser opponents. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke’s strong performance, including 258 passing yards and a touchdown, contributes to Indiana’s impressive start.
11. Rutgers (3-0 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: 26-23 road win over Virginia Tech
Rutgers narrowly escaped a potential upset against Virginia Tech, thanks to a late field goal by kicker Jai Patel. Despite a strong start, the Scarlet Knights faced a fierce comeback from the Hokies, but their resilience shone through in the final moments.
12. Michigan State (3-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)
Result: 23-19 road loss to Boston College
Michigan State faced a disappointing loss against Boston College, where their defense faltered late in the game. The Spartans struggled with turnovers, ultimately costing them the game despite a strong start.
13. Maryland (3-1 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 38-20 home win over Villanova
The Terrapins secured a solid victory against Villanova, dominating early and maintaining control throughout the game. Star receiver Tai Felton’s standout performance solidified Maryland’s offensive strength.
14. Wisconsin (2-1 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
Wisconsin took a break after a tough loss to Alabama, where they lost their starting quarterback. The Badgers will rely on transfer Braedyn Locke as they prepare for a challenging matchup against No. 13 USC.
15. Minnesota (2-2 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 31-14 home loss to Iowa
Minnesota struggled against Iowa, allowing a barrage of rushing yards while failing to establish their own ground game. The Gophers’ inability to execute offensively led to their defeat.
16. Northwestern (2-2 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 24-5 road loss at Washington
Northwestern faced a tough start in their Big Ten opener, struggling offensively against Washington. Their inability to convert on third downs and lack of scoring opportunities led to a disappointing performance.
17. UCLA (1-2 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)
Result: 34-17 road loss to No. 16 LSU
18. Purdue (1-2 overall, 0-0 Big Ten)
Result: 38-21 road loss to Oregon State
Purdue fell behind early against Oregon State and could not recover. The Boilermakers’ struggles continued, particularly on defense, where they allowed significant yardage once again.
