[Related: RJ Young’s 2024 college football rankings]
The 2024 Big Ten power rankings show that Ohio State, Penn State, and USC are leading the pack after Week 1. Ohio State remains a powerhouse, showcasing its strength with a commanding performance. Under head coach James Franklin, Penn State appears more formidable than ever, and Michigan, the reigning national champions, boasts an impressive roster, particularly on defense. Collectively, the revamped Big Ten achieved a remarkable 17-1 record in the opening week.
Here’s the inaugural set of Big Ten Power Rankings:
1. Ohio State (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Akron, 52-6
Ohio State’s start may have seemed shaky, but it quickly turned into the dominating performance fans anticipated. Transfer quarterback Will Howard, previously with Kansas State, found his groove in the second half, amassing 228 passing yards and three touchdowns, including two to the emerging talent Jeremiah Smith, a freshman who is gaining recognition as a future star for the Buckeyes.
The tandem of tailbacks Quinshon Judkins (13 carries, 55 yards, one TD) and TreVeyon Henderson (eight carries, 65 yards) faced challenges from an offensive line still adjusting to new starters. Nonetheless, defensive plays, including a 27-yard fumble return touchdown by safety Lathan Ransom and a 29-yard interception return touchdown by linebacker Gabe Powers, solidified Ohio State’s victory against a weaker opponent.
2. Penn State (1-0)
Week 1 result: Road win over West Virginia, 34-12
Penn State’s defense shone brightly, even with the departure of former coordinator Manny Diaz, now the head coach at Duke. Under new coordinator Tom Allen, the Nittany Lions stifled West Virginia’s renowned rushing game, limiting them to just 85 yards on 37 carries. This could be coach James Franklin’s most dangerous squad yet.
3. USC (1-0)
Week 1 result: Neutral site win over LSU, 27-20
In a thrilling matchup, quarterback Miller Moss engineered a crucial eight-play, 75-yard touchdown drive in the final moments to secure a significant victory for USC. Having spent the last two seasons behind Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams, Moss excelled, completing 27 of 36 passes for 378 yards and one touchdown. His performance was complemented by a versatile receiving corps, with six players each contributing at least 45 yards.
The Trojans’ defense, now under the guidance of former UCLA coordinator D’Anton Lynn, effectively contained LSU, allowing only five conversions on 13 third-down attempts. The physical tackling displayed by the Trojans marked a significant improvement, suggesting that coach Lincoln Riley is making strides in revitalizing the program.
4. Oregon (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Idaho, 24-14
5. Michigan (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Fresno State, 30-10
The question of who would replace J.J. McCarthy as Michigan’s starting quarterback was finally answered when senior Davis Warren, a cancer survivor and former walk-on, was named the starter by head coach Sherrone Moore. Warren successfully fended off competition from dual-threat junior Alex Orji, who many believed would take the reins.
6. Iowa (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Illinois State, 40-0
Despite a rocky start, the revamped Iowa offense found its rhythm in the second half, scoring five touchdowns in a six-drive span. Quarterback Cade McNamara displayed his capabilities, completing 21 of 31 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns, leading Iowa to nearly 500 total yards of offense and a successful third-down conversion rate.
7. Nebraska (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over UTEP, 40-7
Nebraska fans celebrated as head coach Matt Rhule appointed five-star freshman Dylan Raiola as the starting quarterback. The son of former Cornhusker All-American Dominic Raiola, Raiola showcased his talent by completing 19 of 27 passes for 238 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions, marking a significant milestone for Nebraska, which secured its first season-opening win in five years.
8. Maryland (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over UConn, 50-7
Maryland’s offense, under new quarterback Billy Edwards Jr., thrived in their season opener, amassing 629 total yards. Edwards’ efficient performance, completing 20 of 27 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns, was instrumental in the decisive victory over UConn.
9. Wisconsin (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Western Michigan, 28-14
Wisconsin’s victory did not come easily, as they trailed until late in the fourth quarter. Despite quarterback Tyler Van Dyke’s struggles, the team rallied to secure the win, showcasing the potential for improvement in coach Luke Fickell’s second season.
10. Rutgers (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Howard, 44-7
Rutgers opened the season with a dominant performance, led by tailback Kyle Monangai, who rushed for 165 yards. The Scarlet Knights’ renewed confidence comes from a favorable schedule that avoids top-tier opponents.
11. Washington (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Weber State, 35-3
Washington’s new head coach Jedd Fisch faced challenges after significant offseason changes. Despite this, the team secured a convincing win, with transfer quarterback Will Rogers performing admirably and transfer tailback Jonah Coleman showing explosive potential.
12. Illinois (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Eastern Illinois, 45-0
Illinois showcased a strong performance, with quarterback Luke Altmyer rebounding from previous struggles. His efficient play led to a balanced offensive attack that overwhelmed Eastern Illinois.
13. Indiana (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over FIU, 31-7
Indiana’s new head coach Curt Cignetti made a strong debut, leading the Hoosiers to a convincing win. The team’s balanced offensive attack and solid defense marked a promising start to the season.
14. Purdue (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Indiana State, 49-0
Purdue’s quarterback Hudson Card delivered an impressive performance, completing 24 of 25 passes for 273 yards and four touchdowns. The team showcased depth and offensive prowess, setting a strong tone for the season.
15. Northwestern (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Miami (Ohio), 13-6
Northwestern’s first game in its temporary lakeside stadium ended successfully, with a close victory. The team relied on a last-minute interception to secure the win, showcasing resilience despite not dominating the game.
16. Michigan State (1-0)
Week 1 result: Home win over Florida Atlantic, 16-10
Michigan State’s debut under new coach Jonathan Smith was marked by inconsistency. Despite the win, the performance was marred by turnovers and penalties, indicating areas for improvement moving forward.
17. Minnesota (0-1)
Week 1 result: Home loss to North Carolina, 19-17
Minnesota faced a challenging start, losing to North Carolina. Despite the absence of star running back Darius Taylor, the Golden Gophers struggled offensively, failing to capitalize on opportunities against a team that had lost its starting quarterback.
18. UCLA (1-0)
Week 1 result: Road win over Hawaii, 16-13
UCLA’s trip to Hawaii proved challenging. The Bruins trailed for much of the game and needed a late field goal to secure a narrow victory against a team struggling against power-conference opponents.
