Previewing the 2024 Big Ten Football Season
Published: Thursday, July 11, 2024
by Kyle Ferreira
There is a lot to unpack here.
The Big Ten Conference is rapidly evolving into a super conference before our eyes. Through NIL deals, an impressive TV contract, and an influx of talent, this conference has become a juggernaut. Like other college football conferences, it’s a brand new era for this physical-minded conference.
So, what can we expect from one of the premier conferences in the sport?
Heading West
The once predominantly Midwest conference has seen significant realignment throughout its history. The mid-2010s saw the conference bring in Nebraska and expand to the East Coast by adding Maryland and Rutgers. While these additions fit the conference geographically to some extent, the latest schools joining do not.
USC, UCLA, Washington, and Oregon have announced their departure from the Pac-12 in favor of the Big Ten, causing the former conference to collapse. The Big Ten's decision to add these schools has sparked debate, as it was arguably made without the fans and athletes in mind.
Like the ACC last year, lifelong Big Ten fans will face an adjustment period. Just imagine Rutgers vs. USC at 11 p.m. on a Friday night.
The Season After the National Championship
Michigan's 2023 season was one of the most unusual, scandalous, but victorious in its history. However, the Wolverines might take a step back this year. Despite having standout players like defensive back Will Johnson and running back Donovan Edwards, Michigan is in a transitional period with quarterback J.J. McCarthy, running back Blake Corum, and Head Coach Jim Harbaugh all heading to the NFL.
New Head Coach Sherrone Moore, who performed well during Harbaugh’s suspension last season, faces a challenging schedule. Texas, USC, Washington, Oregon, and Ohio State are all on Michigan’s schedule.
Alex Orji is projected to be the starting quarterback this season. The main question remains: Can the Wolverines repeat their success?
The Best Ohio State Team Ever?
It’s too early to say, but maybe. After losing to Michigan for a third straight year and dropping the Cotton Bowl, Ryan Day had to make changes. He successfully brought in premier players from the transfer portal and hired an experienced coach.
Former Alabama safety Caleb Downs, Ole Miss running back Quinshon Judkins, and Kansas State quarterback Will Howard have all moved to Columbus. Former UCLA and Oregon Head Coach Chip Kelly is the new offensive coordinator. The Buckeyes also secured the number one recruit in the nation, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.
With players like defensive linemen J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, this roster is stacked. Expectations are high, and if Day and his team can’t deliver, his tenure might be over.
Kyle Ferreira can be reached atkyle.ferreira@student.shu.edu
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