678 Worlds – ESPN Report
Final Big Ten Football Power Rankings for the 2025 Season
The 2025 college football regular season has wrapped up, and ESPN has released its final Big Ten power rankings — with a few surprises shaking up the expected order. From dominant contenders to rising programs and underwhelming performances, the landscape of the Big Ten looks as competitive as ever heading into bowl season.
Here are the final 2025 Big Ten football power rankings:
1. Michigan Wolverines (11-1)
Michigan reclaims the top spot after a strong season under first-year head coach Sherrone Moore. The Wolverines leaned on their elite defense and a maturing offense led by sophomore stars. Their lone blemish came in a narrow road loss, but they head into the postseason as conference champions.
2. Penn State Nittany Lions (10-2)
Drew Allar took a big step forward, and Penn State’s defense was one of the nation’s best. James Franklin’s squad narrowly missed the Big Ten title game but is poised for a major New Year’s Six bowl.
3. Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2)
Despite a top-five recruiting class and flashes of brilliance, Ryan Day’s team once again came up short against Michigan. The quarterback carousel proved costly in key matchups.
4. Iowa Hawkeyes (9-3)
Iowa’s defense carried them once again, and with slight offensive improvements, they remained a major factor in the Big Ten West. Ferentz’s crew remains a tough out.
5. Oregon Ducks (9-3)
In their first Big Ten season, the Ducks were as explosive as advertised. They dropped some close games in the East but proved they belong among the league’s elite.
6. USC Trojans (8-4)
Another Big Ten newcomer, USC finished with a solid record despite growing pains. Lincoln Riley’s offense thrived, but defensive struggles hurt them late in the season.
7. Wisconsin Badgers (8-4)
Luke Fickell’s rebuild continues to trend upward. The Badgers found their identity late in the season, powered by a strong ground game and physical defense.
8. Maryland Terrapins (7-5)
A strong start fizzled in the second half of the year. Taulia Tagovailoa’s departure looms, but the Terps remain one of the most dynamic offenses in the conference.
9. UCLA Bruins (6-6)
Inconsistent quarterback play and injuries derailed what could’ve been a breakout year for the Bruins in their Big Ten debut.
10. Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-6)
P.J. Fleck’s team showed resilience, especially in close games, but struggled to find consistency against stronger opponents.
11. Illinois Fighting Illini (5-7)
A step back for Bret Bielema’s squad after a promising 2024. The defense couldn’t hold up late in games.
12. Michigan State Spartans (4-8)
A rebuilding year under new leadership, with flashes of potential from a young core.
13. Nebraska Cornhuskers (4-8)
Matt Rhule’s second year brought more questions than answers. The offense lacked rhythm and consistency.
14. Indiana Hoosiers (3-9)
The Hoosiers end another difficult season. A coaching change could be imminent.
With the postseason approaching and new rivalries taking root, the Big Ten is evolving — fast. The addition of West Coast powerhouses and the continued strength of its traditional elite programs make it one of the most competitive conferences in college football. Expect the 2026 season to be even more unpredictable.