BIG TEN GOES WEST
PREVIEWING ALL 18 BIG TEN TEAMS, INCLUDING OREGON, USC, UCLA AND WASHINGTON
A look into the revised Big Ten Conference and College Football Playoff
Sports Editors
True
to its name, the Big Ten is undergoing big changes.
Oregon, UCLA, USC and Washington are the four newest members of the 2024 Big Ten Conference. In addition to the new, 18-team Big Ten, the now feature 12 teams, compared to the previous four.
With four West Coast programs added to a primarily Midwest-to-East Coast conference, teams like the Buckeyes will now face 2,000-plus miles of travel across the country.
But four new schools in the Big Ten also bring increased competitiveness. In recent years, Ohio State’s toughest feat has been at the hands of its arch-rival, the Michigan Wolverines. But now, the Buckeyes will head to Eugene, Oregon Oct. 12 for a clash with the Ducks in what promises to be one of this season’s biggest games.
Northwestern has already gotten a bad taste of one of its
new Big Ten opponents. The Washington Huskies played host to the Wildcats Saturday and downed them 24-5.
Now, rather than divisional
napolis for the Big Ten Championship game following the regular season, the monumen-
two top-ranking teams in the Big Ten Conference, eliminating the traditional East and West divisions seen in past seasons.
The conference additions aren’t the only major change in college football, though.
Tripling the size of the Col-
-
vide the opportunity for multiple Big Ten schools to make
For example, if the College
at the end of week four, the Big Ten would send No. 3 Ohio State, No. 8 Oregon and No. 9 Penn State to the postseason — a whopping three universities from the conference — with the potential for even games.
The Big Ten has never sent more than a single school to the College Football Play-
creates the possibility of an in-conference postseason
Ten.
also pave the way for “Cinderella” runs to championships, allowing colleges that typically lack the talent to break into shine.
of the College Football Play-
as Indiana and No. 19 Illinois may have never thought they’d have a shot at the postseason. In the updated landscape, teams will have more room for error, as late-season games have an increased impact on
Check out Lantern TV’s previews of Indiana
and UCLA football:
REID MURRAY | MANAGING EDITOR FOR DESIGN
Indiana Hoosiers by Max Florin:
UCLA Bruins by Mia Dolan:
The Lantern’s Big Ten Predictions
Big Ten Standings
Big Ten Preview
Table of Contents
Big Ten Championship Game
Pg. 10:
Pg. 11:
Sports Editor
OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
Columbus, OH • Ohio Stadium • 2023 Record: 11-2 (8-1 Big Ten)
Ohio State (3-0) has yet to play a Power Five conference team in 2024.
And yet, if available results are any indication of what’s to come, the Buckeyes will be successful.
Ohio State opened its season with a 52-6 victory over the Akron Zips Aug. 31. The next weekend, the Buckeyes dominated the Western Michigan Broncos 56-0 Sept. 7.
After a bye week — or “improvement week,” in the words of head coach Ryan Day — Ohio State downed the Marshall Thundering Herd 49-14 Saturday.
the Zips, questions remained and rushing attack. Luckily for Buckeye fans, the runningproved ever since.
Through the air, graduate quarterback Will Howard has certainly displayed the veteran presence that he cultivated at Kansas State for four years.
Defensively, through the
didn’t allow an opponent in the red zone. Yet, in the third matchup, multiple Marshall
BUCKEYES AT A GLANCE
Joined Big Ten: 1912
Last Conference Title: 2020 Head Coach: Ryan Day
two games alone.
defense, creating a sense of inconsistency heading into Big Ten play.
-
nator Chip Kelly taking over play-calling duty in 2024, Ohio State’s rushing attack was destined to be explosive. Despite having a down game in the opener against Akron, junior running back Quinshon Judkins has garnered 281 rushing yards and four touchdowns in his past
The improved rushing atpassing attack, including a more successful and meaningful play-action game.
Senior wideout Emeka Egbuka has likewise been impressive for the Buckeyes receiving the ball.
Perhaps most notably, freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has been out-legiate games. The 18 year old will play a large role in Ohio conference schedule.
defensive player within one of the country’s best defenses.
However, one unsung hero through the Buckeyes’ initial three games has been senior safety Lathan Ransom. Beyond a fumble recovery and one defensive touchdown, Ransom leads the team with 19 total tackles and three tackles for a loss.
Plus, Ransom and sophomore safety Caleb Downs make for one of the most formidable duos at the position in college football.
Also on the defensive line, seniors Jack Sawyer, J.T. Tuimoloau and Tyleik Williams force consistent pressure
This season is a championship-or-bust year for the Buckeyes. Ohio State’s roster is one of the best in recent memory, having brought in and retained several key contributors.
The Buckeyes will open their Big Ten schedule with a showdown against the Michigan State Spartans Saturday in East Lansing, Michigan. Ohio State will then return home and is expected to be tested for the following four games. The Buckeyes will host Iowa Oct. 5 before traveling to Eugene, Oregon for an Oct. 12 showdown with the No. 8 Oregon Ducks.
Additionally, the Buckeyes will take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Ohio Stadium Oct. 26, rounding out their ultra-tough stretch with a road game at No. 9 Penn State on Nov. 2.
From there, Ohio State will face Purdue, Northwestern and Indiana before “The Game” against No. 12 Michigan Nov. 30.
With the new 12-team play-ing if the Buckeyes weren’t playing meaningful football and contending for a national championship in December and January.
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MICHIGAN WOLVERINES
Ann Arbor, MI • Michigan Stadium • 2023 Record: 15-0 (9-0 Big Ten)
over Arkansas State Sept. 14.
In week four, the Wolverines faced No. 11 USC in Ann Arbor, Michigan Sept. 21.
championship, the No. 12 Michigan Wolverines (3-1) started their season with a 30-10 victory over California State in Sherrone Moore’s debut as head coach.
The Wolverines faced a setback in week two, losing their
1 Texas 31-12 Sept. 7. Michigan got back on track the following week, achieving a 28-18 win
minute, and a 1-yard run by graduate running back Kalel Mullings lifted the Wolverines over the Trojans 27-24 in a come-from-behind victory.
The biggest question for Michigan remains to be the quarterback position.
Walk-on senior quarterback Davis Warren has taken the majority of snaps for the Wolverines this season, but he was benched for throwing six three games.
Junior quarterback Alex Orji was named the starter for Michigan’s showdown against the USC Trojans and gave a rather lackluster performance, completing seven of 12 passes for 32 yards.
Defensively, the Wolverines have struggled following the departures of key players like cornerback Mike Sainristil, linebacker Mike Barrett and linebacker Junior Colson for the NFL.
After leading the nation last season — allowing just 10.4 points and 247 yards per game — Michigan now ranks 57th in points allowed, with an average of 19.7 per game,
WOLVERINES AT A GLANCE
Joined Big Ten: 1896
Last Conference Title: 2023
Head Coach: Sherrone Moore
and 54th in yards allowed, giving up 304.3 per game this season.
and instinctiveness makes him one of the top shutdown corners in the country, and he consistently limits opposing receivers.
support, adding physicality to Michigan’s secondary.
Junior tight end Colston Loveland has been the leading receiver for Michigan through
an injury taking him out of the Wolverines’ clash with the Trojans. The 6-foot-5, 245-pound target has hauled in 19 receptions for 187 yards and one touchdown, averaging 9.8 yards per catch.
Loveland’s size and athleticism make him a reliable player and a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He also plays an important role in run-blocking, helping power a strong Wolverine rushing attack that has been a staple in Michigan’s offensive scheme for years.
Junior cornerback Will Johnson has been a standout for the Wolverine defense thus far. The 6-foot-2, 202-pound defender has recorded 11 tackles and three pass breakups, returning two interceptions for touchdowns this season for 86 and 42 yards, respectively.
Johnson’s combination of size, speed
As the Wolverines face ranked opponents, Johnson’s ability to prevent big plays and create turnovers will be crucial.
Michigan will look to solidify a starting quarterback in the upcoming weeks, with the battle between Orji and Warren still raging on.
Orji has brought a dynamdual-threat quarterback. He frequently utilizes his legs, which opens up rushing lanes for senior running back Donovan Edwards and Mullings, though Warren may be the better option as a passer.
Following the showdown against No. 13 USC, Michigan will face a challenging schedule with ranked conference opponents, including No. 19 Illinois, No. 8 Oregon and No. 3 Ohio State.
With 10 new starters on offense, the team is likely to experience some growing pains as it tries to gel and establish consistency.
Defensively, the Wolverines are working to establish their identity with several new playreplicate the success of their 2023 defense, which excellent-
Improving on both sides of the ball will be crucial as Michigan looks to navigate the remainder of the season and secure a spot in the new 12-
Senior Lantern Reporter
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OREGON DUCKS
Eugene, OR • Autzen Stadium • 2023 Record: 11-2 (8-1
Pac-12)
him a highly sought-after addition to Oregon’s roster.
Senior Lantern Reporter
The No. 9 Oregon Ducks (3-0) opened the season with a 24-14 win over the Idaho Vandals in a closer-than-expected game for week one.
The Vandal defense held
in the contest, completing 18 of 21 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns.
and two lost fumbles, however, stalled Oregon’s momentum throughout the game.
Defensively, the Ducks struggled to contain Boise State’s Heisman Trophy hopeful Ashton Jeanty, who rushed 25 times for 192 yards and three
Gabriel was one of the top quarterbacks in the transfer portal — coming out of Oklahoma — and is expected to
the Ducks, replacing Bo Nix, who was selected No. 12 overall by the Denver Broncos in the 2024 NFL Draft.
In 2023, the six-foot, 200-pound Gabriel led an
Though Gabriel and the Ducks have had a slow start this season, they will endeavor to meet high expectations, especially as Oregon gets a glimpse of Big Ten football. Gabriel is hoping to replicate his success at Oklahoma and -
ish in the 2024-25 season.
At 6 feet, 6 inches and 295 pounds, senior defensive end
that momentum into the 2024 season, already totaling 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks through
With his size, strength and athleticism, Burch is expected to be a key player on Oregon’s defensive line as the season moves forward.
Oregon will look to build victory when it faces UCLA game, following a bye week.
The Ducks will then enter
DUCKS AT A GLANCE
Joined Big Ten: 2024
Last Conference Title: 2020
Head Coach: Dan Lanning
PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS
State College, PA • Beaver Stadium • 2023 Record: 10-3 (7-2 Big Ten)
tory.
Asst. Sports Editor
The Penn State Nittany Lions started their year with a 34-12 road win against West Virginia Aug. 31. In week two, Penn State received a scare from Bowling Green, clinching a mere 34-27 win in its home opener Sept. 7.
The Falcons led for the ma-
the Nittany Lions’ duo of junior running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen ultimately guided them to vic-
Following a bye week, Penn State took care of business in a dominant 56-0 win over Kent State Sept. 21.
Singleton and Allen headline a run-heavy Penn State -
gleton has proved to be much -
Singleton — a Shillington, Pennsylvania native — has rushed for 314 yards through
adding two rushing and two receiving touchdowns.
INTRODUCING
partner, amassing 187 total rushing yards and scoring a touchdown on his lone reception of the year.
Lions’ last two matchups. Last season, Carter earned from coaches and second-team honors from the media after tallying 48 tackles, 4.5 sacks, a pick and a forced fumble.
Despite a slow start to the season, recording just one tackle in the season opener versus West Virginia, junior defensive end Abdul Carter shined in his last two contests for the Nittany Lions.
Carter has accumulated 11 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, one sack and one pass breakup in Penn State’s two games against Mid-American Conference schools in the Nittany
Penn State has two humps it simply can’t get over — Michigan and Ohio State.
The Nittany Lions have fallen to both the Wolverines and Buckeyes in the past three seasons, and haven’t defeated Ohio State since 2016. Though Penn State will avoid
Michigan in 2024, the Nittany Lions will take on their
in the No. 19 Illinois Fighting Illini Saturday.
On Oct. 12, Penn State will face the No. 13 Southern California Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before the aforementioned showdown against the Buckeyes Nov. 2 in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania.
If Penn State can take down at least one of these two ranked opponents, the Nittany Lions will have a chance at the -
NITTANY LIONS AT A GLANCE
USC TROJANS
Los Angeles, CA • LA Memorial Coliseum• 2023 Record: 8-5 (5-4 Pac-12)
Asst. Sports Editor
The USC Trojans (2-1, 1-0 Big Ten) made their presence known in week one with a 2720 come-from-behind victory over LSU at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
With just under two minutes remaining, junior quarterback Miller Moss led the Trojans on an eight-play, 75yard touchdown drive capped
senior running back Woody Marks with eight seconds left.
The following week, USC dominated Utah State 48-0 at home in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where Marks rushed for 103 yards
and a touchdown, while his fellow rusher redshirt freshman Quinten Joyner added 84 yards and two scores.
In week three, USC traveled to Ann Arbor, Michi gan to take on the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines, opening Big Ten play. The Trojans were down by 10 in the sec ond half, but fought back to take a 4-point lead late in the fourth quarter.
Still, it wasn’t enough, as Wolverine graduate running back Kalel Mullings scored a 1-yard touchdown run with just seconds to play, giving Michigan the 27-24 victory.
quarterback Caleb Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Moss — a lifelong Trojan fan from Los Angeles — sat behind Williams for two
TROJANS AT A GLANCE
Joined Big Ten: 2024 Last Conference Title: 2017 Head Coach: Lincoln Riley
Trojans’ matchup against the Wolverines. Gentry not only forced a fumble on star Michigan senior running back Donovan Edwards with a punch to the football, but he also recov
playoff implications, with both teams vying for a potential spot in the postseason.
The Trojans will then facenal contest of the regular season Nov. 30, in what could be a make-or-break contest for both programs.
In the meantime, USC will also travel to Maryland Oct. 19, Washington Nov. 2 and UCLA Nov. 23 — three contests that the Trojans are projected to win.
in Los Angeles for Moss, who will attempt to follow up 2023 Heisman Trophy-winning
If all goes as planned for Southern California, a one- or two-loss Trojan team could still have the opportunity to sneak into the playcompete for a national title.
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NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS
Lincoln, NE • Memorial Stadium • 2023 Record: 5-7 (3-5 Big Ten)
2024?
The Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1, start in 2024, with the team winningond-year head coach Matt Rhule.
across the country that are led by a teenager.
But Nebraska is an exception.
The Huskers are guided forward by freshman starting quarterback Dylan Raiola.
has been everything Huskers fans
passes while throwing for 967 yards and eight touchdowns. He ranks 12th nationally in completion percentage and 20th in touchdown passes.
Raiola has already won Big Ten collegiate game against UTEP. Rhule and Nebraska’s faithful supporters hope Raiola is the answer they’ve been awaiting after multiple losing seasons.
On top of Raiola, Huskers sophomore running back Dante Dowdell has amassed 256 rushing yards and three average of 5 yards per carry, Dowdell helps create a rushing attack to pair with an improved passing game.
The Nebraska defense has several talented athletes, but only one who stands out in the stat sheets.
Senior strong safety Isaac Gifford started all 12 games in 2023, leading Nebraska in tackles while ranking second on the team with a career-high eight pass breakups.
les with 45, adding a career-high 6.5 tackles for loss and one interception throughout last
Huskers to earn a single-digit jersey number in a team vote, cementing him as
September 26, 2024
CORNHUSKERS AT A GLANCE
Joined Big Ten: 2012
Last Conference Title: 1999
Head Coach: Matt Rhule
one of Nebraska’s “toughest” players. The safety is the anchor of Nebraska’s
Senior linebacker John Bullock 25, two sacks, four tackles for a loss the middle of Nebraska’s defense and defense has what it takes to compete Big Ten.
Nebraska fans have long yearned for a return to the glory days of former and with Raiola’s impressive play this The Huskers’ early success has further heightened hopes that the program is
However, the Big Ten remains challenging, as seen in Nebraska’s tough home loss to Illinois. Though the Huskers are predicted to take victories against teams like Rutgers and Purdue, they will face tougher challenges against powerhouses like Ohio State and USC on the road.
Ultimately, while Nebraska’s resurgence won’t happen overnight, Rhule’s leadership brings a growing optimism that brighter days are ahead in Lincoln.
Lantern Reporter
STEVEN BRANSCOMBE
IOWA HAWKEYES
Iowa City, IA • Kinnick Stadium • 2023 Record: 10-4 (7-2 Big
Ten)
2024?
Following a disappointing 20-19 home loss to in-state rival Iowa State Sept. 7, the Iowa Hawkeyes (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) picked up back-to-back victories with a 38-21 home beating of Troy University Sept. 14 and a 31-14 road win over Minnesota Saturday.
The Hawkeyes turned a 14-7 half24-0 in the second half, holding the Golden Gophers to just 66 yards of sec-
Junior running back Kaleb Johnson ran wild in the win, amassing 206 yards on 21 carries and three scores.
Iowa’s marquee defense has al-
lowed just 27 second-half points across
Graduate quarterback Cade McNamara has racked up 505 yards and four touchdowns to three interceptions thus far. The top pass-catcher for the Hawkeyes is junior wide receiver Jacob Gill, who has hauled in 13 catches for 145 yards and one touchdown.
Johnson has been the feature back this season, averaging 171.3 yards per game with nine touchdowns. Through just four games, the junior has already eclipsed his 2023 total of 463 yards. Not only that, but Johnson is leading
685 rushing yards and sixth in yards per carry at 8.4.
Hawkeye running back to notch three straight 100-plus-yard rushing games since 2015.
Fifth-year linebacker Jay Higgins -
age, being tied for most interceptions on the team with two, while also having two pass breakups under his belt.
After a bye week, Iowa will make the trip to Columbus to face No. 3 Ohio State Oct. 5. The matchup will be a tilt
ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI
Urbana-Champaign, IL • Memorial Stadium • 2023 Record: 5-7 (3-6 Big Ten)
transfer out of Ole Miss, threw for four touchdowns in the Illini’s overtime win against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, including the 4-yard winning pass to senior wide receiver Pat Bryant to secure the victory.
2024?
The No. 19 Illinois Fighting Illini (4-0, 1-0 Big Ten) have been explosive this year. Coached by Bret Bielema, Illinois is already just one win away from matching their victory total of
The Fighting Illini forced overtime and eventually won 31-24 against Netime since 2011 that they’ve gone 4-0 to start the year.
Altmyer was 21 of 27 throwing for 215 yards at Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium.
tymer is 75 of 102, claiming a 74% accuracy on throws. He has racked up 862 yards, 10 touchdowns and no in-
up against No. 9 Penn State at State College.
Senior defensive lineman Dennis Briggs Jr., who transferred from Florida State, made his debut for the Fighting Illini Aug. 29 against the Eastern
tackles in the game.
Briggs Jr. was a four-star recruit ranked No. 27 in the country in the class of 2018 and helped the Florida State Seminoles achieve a 13-0 undefeated regular season, as well an ACC Championship last year.
Hopes are high in Champaign, Illinois as the Illini look to improve upon their 4-0 start against Penn State Saturday at Beaver Stadium, which would
The Illini will face Purdue Oct. 12 from there, the team will take on No. 12 Michigan in an Oct. 19 matchup
between the Hawkeyes’ premier de -
A Nov. 29 clash with Nebraska could spell huge implications and may even result in a top-25 matchup. If the Hawkeyes can feed Johnson steady dose out and McNamara is able to play mis take-free football come a surprise at-large bid in the new 12-team College Foot
If the Illini can survive the early gauntlet and beat unranked Big Tennois will have a chance to sneak
Senior Lantern Reporter
Luke Altmyer, a junior quarterback
Lantern Reporter
An Oct. 26 road matchup against
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INDIANA HOOSIERS
Bloomington, IN • Memorial Stadium • 2023 Record: 3-9 (1-8 Big Ten)
stood strong since 1901.
Senior running back Justice Ellison has racked up 290 yards on 38 carries this season, as well as four touchdowns
tion percentage and has yet to throw an interception through 16 quarters of football.
son, and he leads a Hoosier scoring defense that gives up just 9.3 points and 199.3 yards per game.
2024?
Junior linebacker Aiden Fisher has of Senior Lantern Reporter
ishing second-to-last in Big Ten scorIndiana (4-0, 1-0 Big Ten) has comHoosiers sit in second place among Big point per contest.
Indiana has given four dominant performances, highlighted by a 42-13 road thrashing of UCLA in a Big Ten welcome game for the Bruins.
The Hoosiers’ 77-3 victory over broke the program’s record for most points scored in a game, which had
tion, junior wideout Elijah Sarrat sits at 15 receptions with 250 yards and one score, leading the Hoosiers’ receiving game.
Redshirt senior quarterback and Ohio University transfer Kurtis Ro urke has captained the turnaround
every passing-based statistic among Big Ten quarterbacks, Rourke has thrown for 1,013 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Oakville, Ontario native has
MICHIGAN STATE
East Lansing, MI • Spartan Stadium • 2023 Record: 4-8 (2-7 Big Ten)
The Michigan State Spartans (3-1) three matchups of the 2024 season, including a 27-24 victory over Big Ten foe Maryland on the heels of a 37-yard than Kim.
feat in a 23-19 back-and-forth battle against Boston College Saturday. Despite this loss, Michigan State has averaged 25.5 points and 400.8 matchups.
Aidan Chiles, a sophomore quarterback transfer from Oregon State, has been the man at the helm for the Spartans this sea-
Chiles was ranked as one of the top 10 players entering the transfer portal in 2023 and has met fans’ expectations, passing for 891 total yards while averaging 7.7 yards per attempt this season.
In the Spartans’ win against Maryland, Chiles threw for a career high 363 yards on 24 of 38 passing attempts. In each of the last four games, he has also either rushed or thrown for a touchdown.
First-year Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti has given the folks in Bloomington, Indiana a reason to be excited about their football team this year. A defense that’s forced seven turnovers way for a ranked Indiana team come October.
A Nov. 23 tilt against Ohio State in Columbus could witness the rankedversus-ranked Hoosier and Buckeye battle since the 2020 season.
Redshirt senior linebacker Jordan leads the Spartan defense with 22 tackles.
Turner has already tied the number of sacks he racked up last season, this year.
In 2023, Turner ranked third on the Spartans with 66 tackles, while also accumulating 6.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups and one forced fumble.
last year, during which the Spartans had their lowest win total in a full seagames on the year.
Michigan State faces an onslaught of challenges in its next four weeks, starting with a home contest Saturday against one of the Big Ten’s top dogs, No. 3 Ohio State.
The Spartans will then take on No. 8 Oregon in Eugene Oct. 4, before facweek, at Spartan Field Oct. 19.
Michigan State will clash with instate rival No. 12 Michigan in Ann Arits play against ranked opponents with No. 19 Illinois Nov. 16.
Lantern Reporter
RUTGERS SCARLET KNIGHTS
New Brunswick, NJ • SHI Stadium • 2023 Record: 7-6 (3-6 Big Ten)
with home victories against Howard and Akron, tallying a combined 93
a bye week, the Scarlet Knights narrowly defeated Virginia Tech 26-23
Rutgers (3-0, Big Ten) is trying to
tum from last season, during which the team achieved a 7-6 record game since 2014.
The Scarlet Knights are led by head coach Greg Schiano, who took the job in 2020 and previ ously coached Rutgers from 2001-11.
The team opened
junior kicker Jai Patel with just two minutes to go.
member; furthermore, he has already been voted Big Ten player of the week after tallying a career-high 208 yards and three touchdowns against Akron in week two.
Monangai’s speed, blended with his distinct ability to break tackles, makes the rusher a major threat out of the
Senior running back Kyle
2023 season where he led the Big Ten in rushing yards and earned Pinstripe Bowl Most Valuable er honors.
Roseland, New Jersey na-
Senior defensive end Aaron Lewis started all 13 games last season, totaling 51 tackles and three sacks that attained him an All-Big Ten honorable mention (coaches and media).
ups, Lewis racked up nine tackles, one
MARYLAND TERRAPINS
College Park, MD • SECU Stadium • 2023 Record: 8-5 (4-5 Big Ten)
Lantern Reporter
2024?
The University of Maryland (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) has had a relatively strong start to its 2024 campaign, though a -
test may hurt the team’s chances at a bowl game.
with a 50-7 victory over the UCONN Huskies, during which the Maryland Maryland fell to Michigan State 27-
The Terrapins have since secured two straight victories against non-conference opponents, defeating Virginia 27-13 and Villanova 38-20 Sept. 14 and 21, respectively.
Redshirt junior quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. has been a catalyst for
a top 10 quarterback this season in the Football Bowl Subdivision, or FBS.
In week four, Edwards threw for 263 yards and three total touchdowns in Maryland’s comeback win against Virginia.
Maryland’s most dependable defensive tackles, two pass breakups and one in terception.
In week three, Trader was named
after recording 11 tackles and one pick in the Terrapins’ win over the Virginia Cavaliers.
Last season, Trader started all ishing third on the team in tackles with 58. He also totaled seven pass breakups and two interceptions.
tackle for loss and one pass breakup, also leading the team with four quarterback hits.
The Terrapins’ fall schedule is no cakewalk.
Maryland must hit the road
winning season in nine years, there is hope in New Jersey that Schiano is slowly but surely building up the program to become a threat in the newlook Big Ten.
The Scarlet Knights have strong potential to improve upon last season, with a favorable schedule that avoids the top-four ranked teams in the Big Ten – Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State and Michigan.
come against the No. 13 USC Trojans in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Oct. 25 and a home duel versus No.19 Illinois Nov. 19.
for contests against Indiana Saturday, Oregon Nov. 9 and Penn State Nov. 30.
The Terrapins’ home slate will feature a matchup against the USC Trojans Oct. 19, as well as back-toback games in College Park against Rutgers Nov. 16 and Iowa Nov. 23.
Lantern Reporter
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WISCONSIN BADGERS
Madison, WI • Camp Randall Stadium • 2023 Record: 7-6 (5-4 Big
Ten)
After a dominant 2023 season,
2024?
full steam ahead going into week three, Aug. 30 and South Dakota Sept. 7, but were nevertheless halted by an immovable object.
The No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide marched into Madison and throttledconsin senior starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke being injured during the contest.
Van Dyke was ruled out for the season due to an ACL tear, so the Badgers must rely on another signal caller to
Considering Van Dyke’s injury, redshirt sophomore quarterback Braedyn Locke is tasked with salvaging the Badgers’ season.
sin, achieving 777 passing yards while one interception.
man in Badger history to deliver two 240-plus-yard passing performances in a single season last year. the Badger defense with 17 tackles and
gers and all Big Ten de backs with tackles, adding six pass break ups and two picks to boot. He was the only defensive back in the na tion to record over 110 tackles and multiple interceptions on the season.
Having lost its starting quarter pick up the pieces in Big Ten play. The Badgers must tackle one of the beginning with a Saturday matchup against the No. 13 Southern California
MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS
Minneapolis, MN • Huntington Bank Stadium • 2023 Record: 6-7 (3-6 Big Ten)
to Iowa 31-14 Saturday.
2024?
The Minnesota Golden Gophers are
The team currently sits at 2-2, with its biggest win being against Rhode Island in a 48-0 shutout Sept. 7. Minnesota’s second win came against thecorded their second shutout of the season 27-0.
Despite trouncing inferior opponents, Minnesota has struggled to compete with more substantial comin a 19-17 nail-biter against North Carolina at Chapel Hill Aug. 29, then fell
Graduate quarterback Max Bros mer is the Gophers’ biggest weapon.
transferred to Minnesota from New yards throughout four games, record interceptions. In 2023, Brosmer earned AP Sec ond Team FCS All-American honors, leading the FCS in passing yards with 3,464 passing yards and tossing 29 touchdowns in the process.
A four-week gauntlet featuring home contests against No. 9 Penn State Oct. 26 and No. 8 Oregon Nov. 16, as well as away games versus Iowa Nov. 2 and Nebraska Nov. 23, will out of contention for the
The Golden Gophers’ leading de
Looking ahead, the Gophers are set to face three ranked opponents in Michigan, USC and Penn State.
Minnesota’s program will have to battle hard if it wants to see a bowl game in 2024. Though anything is possible in college football, the Gophers will need a miracle to be a real conference threat.
Lantern Reporter
Lantern Reporter
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WASHINGTON HUSKIES
Seattle, WA • Husky Stadium • 2023 Record: 14-1 (9-0 Pac-12)
Junior running back Jonah Coleman, who transferred into the program from the University of Arizona in January, has already made his mark in
2024?
by newly appointed head coach Jedd
game as a Big Ten team.
31, followed by a 30-9 win against Eastern Michigan Sept. 7. But a 24-19
the year.
Coleman ran for 127 yards in the -
ning back in 64 years to rush for 100 yards or more in their debut.
Coleman tallied 104 rushing
of the season. Thus far, the 5-foot-9, 229-pound running back has rushed for a total of 373 yards with four touchdowns.
interception this season.
In Saturday’s win against North western, the 6-foot-2, 226-pound linebacker had six tackles and one in -
son of his career as a junior, Bruener accounted for 86 tackles and three tackles for a loss.
Senior linebacker Carson Bruener leads the Husky defense, not just as a
2024 squad are quite complex.
Having played in the 2024 Nation
to contend in 2025. However, with the loss of former head coach Kalen DeBo
to make its mark in an expanded Big Ten conference.
Though reaching the national championship isn’t a realistic expecta
NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS
Evanston, IL • Martin Stadium • 2023 Record: 8-5 (5-4 Big Ten)
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perfectly encapsulates the Northwestern football team’s essence.
Located in Evanston, Illinois, the program has swung back and forth with notable successes and challenges.
Due to the reconstruction of its stadium, Ryan Field, the team is currently playing in several venues near campus. Second-year head coach David Braun Las Vegas Bowl win.
attaining victories against Miami of Ohio Aug. 31 and Eastern Illinois Sept. 14. Northwestern’s two losses include an overtime loss to Duke Sept. 6 and, most recently, a defeat in the hands of -
dium Saturday.
They’re now preparing for their athome, Big Ten slate against the Indiana Hoosiers Oct. 5.
One of the biggest returners for Cam Porter.
Named as a team captain last year, Porter started in all 13 games, recording a team-leading 651 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. He’sson, as he’s totaled 234 total rushing three games.
tion for the 2024 Huskies,
look to compete with some of its new conference opponents in Michigan, Iowa, Rutgers and Indiana.
In addition, graduates A.J. Henning and Bryce Kirtz are both veterans at the wide receiver position. The duo has combined for over 300 yards, with a high of 46 yards for Henning.
There’s no doubt that Northwestern’s identity lies in its defense.
four interceptions, with each coming from one of their defensive backs
junior Theran Johnson, redshirt sophomore Evan Smith and redshirt sophomore Robert Fitzgerald.
Graduate linebacker Xander Muel-
the team in tackles with 28 and three for a loss.
Two years ago, the program wastime head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who was terminated due to hazing and harassment allegations. This led to the entrance of Braun, who miraculously established a winning cul ture just a year into his stint.
All this considered, Northwestern has a strong chance of se curing another 8-5 season as well as a 2024 bowl game
bad for a team its footing in a dominant Big Ten conference.
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PURDUE BOILERMAKERS
West Lafayette, IN • Ross-Ade Stadium • 2023 Record: 4-8 (3-6 Big Ten)
Boilermakers as a whole in their week one win over Indiana State, a rapid cooldown ensued as Purdue fell to Notre Dame Sept. 14 and Oregon State Saturday by a combined 76 points.
2024?
Purdue’s 2024 season has had an unceremonious start.
In year two for head coach Ryan improvement within the Boilermakers after a 4-8 season in 2023.
Though there is some continuity for Purdue’s 2024 quarterback and head fans have seen from the Boilermakers is nothing more than a repeat of 2023’s disappointing season.
After a scorching-hot start for senior quarterback Hudson Card and the
Junior running back Devin Mock obee was not a highly touted recruit coming out of Boonville, Indiana.
After a solid performance in Pur which Mockobee averaged he has totaled 36 carries for 276 yards and one touchdown on the year.
Overall, Mocko cient back, currently sitting at sixth in the
Big Ten in yards per carry among rushers with over 20 carries.
Thus far, senior linebacker Kydran Jenkins leads the Boilermakers in both sacks and tackles.ished second in the Big Ten in with les good for nationJenkins was dominant against Oregon State, and two sacks. Even in a game
UCLA BRUINS
Los Angeles, CA • Rose Bowl • 2023 Record: 8-5 (4-5 Pac-12)
Hoosiers 42-13.
A week later, the Bruins fell once again Sept. 21, losing to the No. 14 Louisiana State Tigers 34-17 in Baton Rouge.
2024?
The UCLA Bruins (1-2, 0-1 Big Ten) are in the midst of a major change of
with the Pac-12 conference losing 10 members over the course of the past year.
In week one, the Bruins mustered a second-half comeback against Hawai’iriors 16-13 on the back of a 32-yard Bhaghani.
post-bye week ended in a disastrous loss to the
Redshirt senior quarterback Ethan Garbers’ play will be one the biggestmance.
Coming out of Newport Beach, California, Garbers has thrown for 690 yards and three touchdowns this season, also throwing four picks in the process.
Garbers appeared in 11 games last year for the Bruins’ 2023 season, having started six and accumulated 1,136 passing yards while posting an 11-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Defensive back
lace has been a machine for the Bruins in 2024.
games, the redshirt senior from Atlanta has proven to be a lockdown defensive back in the Bruins’ secondary.
Last season at Georgia
games at nickel back for the Yellow Jackets, recording 39 tackles and seven pass breakups. He also added two forced fumbles, recovered a
where Purdue was dominated in all facets by Notre Dame, Jenkins was still a force, recording an additional half-sack.
Moving forward, Purdue’s schedule
The Boilermakers will face Nebraska, Illinois, Oregon and Ohio State. This gauntlet will be succeeded by tough matchups against Michigan State and Penn State.
be a sign of life for Purdue’s program. Even so, in realistic terms, Purdue could very well lose each of these be in the market for a new head coach.
fumble and notched an intercep -
An already rocky season for UCLA is about to become much bumpier. In their next two matchups, the Bruins willgon Ducks Saturday at home and the Penn State Nittany Lions in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania Oct. 5.
The Bruins’ year will likely be over by bowl season, as it is and mediocre roster will result in UCLA falling short of competing in the expanded Big Ten.
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