2024 Big Ten Power Rankings reveal that Oregon remains at the forefront, despite facing a narrow escape in their recent game. Two plays after a pivotal moment, Lanning’s defense delivered a crucial performance with a tipped pass intercepted by defensive lineman Matayo Uiagalelei. This interception not only secured a hard-fought 16-13 victory but also kept Oregon just one game away from an undefeated season and a spot in the Big Ten Championship game.
Here’s the latest edition of the Big Ten Power Rankings following Week 12:
1. Oregon (11-0 overall, 8-0 Big Ten)
Result: 16-13 road win over Wisconsin
Oregon’s offense struggled to find its rhythm at Camp Randall Stadium, reminiscent of their season-opening performance against Idaho. Missing their star wide receiver, Tez Johnson, who has tallied 64 catches for 649 yards and 8 touchdowns, quarterback Dillon Gabriel faced a challenging outing, failing to throw a touchdown pass for the first time this year. He completed 22 of 31 passes for 218 yards, but an interception marked his second-lowest yardage output of the season.
Without the offensive spark from Johnson, tailback Jordan James stepped up, carrying the ball 25 times for 121 yards and a touchdown. His critical runs in the fourth quarter were vital in securing the win, especially following a questionable fake field goal decision from head coach Dan Lanning. Oregon’s defense shone brightly, limiting Wisconsin’s quarterback Braedyn Locke to just 96 passing yards and a completion percentage below 50%. The Ducks allowed only two conversions on third and fourth down, showcasing Lanning’s trust in his defense as they made crucial stops in the second half. With two weeks to prepare for their rivalry game against Washington, Oregon is poised for a likely trip to Indianapolis for the Big Ten Championship game in early December.
2. Ohio State (9-1, 6-1 Big Ten)
Result: 31-7 road win over Northwestern
3. Indiana (10-0 overall, 7-0 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
During their bye week, Indiana’s first-year head coach Curt Cignetti celebrated a new eight-year contract, averaging $8 million annually with an additional retention bonus of $1 million per year. With this significant milestone secured, Cignetti can now focus on the upcoming showdown against No. 2 Ohio State, marking Indiana’s first encounter with a ranked opponent this season—a crucial test for the College Football Playoff Selection Committee.
4. Penn State (9-1 overall, 6-1 Big Ten)
Result: 49-10 road win over Purdue
Penn State demonstrated their prowess by covering 75 yards in just nine plays on their opening drive against Purdue. Quarterback Drew Allar had a standout performance, completing 17 of 19 passes for 247 yards and three touchdowns before resting in the fourth quarter. The Nittany Lions converted nine of 14 third downs, with Allar consistently finding tight end Tyler Warren, who recorded eight catches for 127 yards and a touchdown. Warren also contributed as a wildcat quarterback, leading the team in rushing with three carries for 63 yards and a score. Despite an earlier setback against Ohio State, Penn State is well-positioned for an at-large bid in the College Football Playoff, with two remaining games against unranked opponents.
5. Illinois (7-3 overall, 4-3 Big Ten)
Result: 38-16 home win over Michigan State
Illinois rebounded from two consecutive losses with a commanding victory against Michigan State. The Illini established a 21-6 lead by late in the second quarter and maintained control throughout the game. The rushing attack, highlighted by tailback Josh McCray’s three touchdowns, totaled 138 yards on 31 carries. Quarterback Luke Altmyer also had an efficient outing, completing 19 of 32 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns. Illinois’ defense was formidable, allowing only 87 rushing yards and recording eight tackles for loss, while sacking Michigan State’s quarterback five times.
6. Minnesota (6-4 overall, 4-3 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
After a four-game winning streak, the Gophers faced a setback with a loss to Rutgers. Head coach P.J. Fleck is now preparing for a significant challenge against No. 4 Penn State, which could shape the remainder of their season. Despite the tough schedule ahead, Minnesota has already secured bowl eligibility for the fourth consecutive year.
7. Iowa (6-4 overall, 4-3 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
Despite a tough loss to UCLA, head coach Kirk Ferentz is on the verge of achieving an eight-win season for the ninth consecutive time. Iowa is favored in their upcoming games against Maryland and Nebraska, which could solidify their standing among the top teams in the Big Ten.
8. Washington (6-5 overall, 4-4 Big Ten)
Result: 31-19 home win over UCLA
Washington fans have seen promising performances from true freshman quarterback Demond Williams Jr. this season. After stepping in for starter Will Rogers, Williams led the Huskies to victory, completing seven of eight passes for 67 yards and a touchdown while also contributing on the ground. His efforts, combined with star tailback Jonah Coleman’s 95 rushing yards and two touchdowns, helped Washington achieve bowl eligibility in a season marked by significant changes.
9. Michigan (5-5 overall, 3-4 Big Ten)
Result: Idle
Michigan faces a crucial moment as they prepare for their final game against Northwestern. With a struggling offense that ranks among the lowest in passing and scoring, this matchup is vital for the Wolverines to regain momentum before a challenging game against Ohio State.
10. Wisconsin (5-5 overall, 3-4 Big Ten)
Result: 16-13 home loss to No. 1 Oregon
11. UCLA (4-6 overall, 3-5 Big Ten)
Result: 31-19 road loss to Washington
12. USC (5-5 overall, 3-5 Big Ten)
Result: 28-20 home win over Nebraska
13. Rutgers (6-4 overall, 3-4 Big Ten)
Result: 31-17 road win over Maryland
14. Nebraska (5-5 overall, 2-5 Big Ten)
Result: 28-20 road loss to USC
The pressure mounts for head coach Matt Rhule after Nebraska’s latest loss, which was another close game. The Cornhuskers led midway through the third quarter but fell short, hampered by a revamped offense that struggled to gain momentum. With four consecutive losses, the team must secure victories against either Wisconsin or Iowa to achieve bowl eligibility for the first time since 2016.
15. Michigan State (4-6 overall, 2-5 Big Ten)
Result: 38-16 road loss to Illinois
The situation for first-year head coach Jonathan Smith has become increasingly dire as Michigan State has lost six of its last seven games. Their defense struggles to stop opponents, ranking low nationally in third-down conversions. The Spartans must secure a win against Purdue to keep their hopes alive.
16. Northwestern (4-6 overall, 2-5 Big Ten)
Result: 31-7 home loss to No. 2 Ohio State
Northwestern faced a disappointing defeat against Ohio State, marred by early mistakes that cost them dearly. A fumble on their opening drive and a blocked punt led to three touchdowns in a short span, sealing their fate. They will next face Michigan, hoping to turn their season around.
17. Maryland (4-6 overall, 1-6 Big Ten)
Result: 31-17 home loss to Rutgers
Maryland’s hopes for a turnaround were dashed after a brief lead against Rutgers. The Terrapins surrendered 17 unanswered points, marking their fifth double-digit loss this season. With two challenging games ahead, head coach Mike Locksley faces a tough road to bowl eligibility.
18. Purdue (1-9 overall, 0-7 Big Ten)
Result: 49-10 home loss to No. 4 Penn State
Purdue continues to struggle, suffering another heavy defeat and scoring only 30 points in their last four games. Their defense has faltered, ranking low nationally in scoring and total yards allowed. The Boilermakers face a must-win situation against Michigan State to salvage their season.
