3 Big Ten teams who could make CFP playoffs despite tough schedule in 2024 ft. USC
The Big Ten is going to be one of the top conferences in terms of the CFP playoffs as there are a lot of quality programs. Only a few teams could make the College Football Playoff but there are a lot of exciting teams to complete for the 12-team CFP.
But which teams have the best chance despite having one of the toughest schedules in college football?
Big Ten teams who can make the CFP playoffs
USC Trojans
The USC Trojans did lose the former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams ahead of their transition to the Big Ten Conference but they can leap this season. The Trojans added defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn to improve the defense after being terrible a year ago.
They have a tough schedule but quarterback Miller Moss stepped up in the Holiday Bowl last season and proved he could dominate in college football.
With coach Lincoln Riley needing to prove he can be successful without Williams after being tied to him for a handful of years, this would be a great chance for the team to make the CFP playoffs.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes have been one of the best teams in recruiting and getting to the point where they can make the College Football Playoff. The program has been one of the top teams for a while overall and should be a lock to make the College Football Playoff.
With Ryan Day and Chip Kelly being two of the top coaches in the program and a lot of incredible talent, they should be locked in for the CFP playoffs.
Iowa Hawkeyes
The Iowa Hawkeyes have been doing well and made the Big Ten Championship Game last season on the backs of their defense. The team was dependent on their punter and the defense to limit the amount of points allowed to win games.
The biggest reason is that quarterback Cade McNamara is going to be entering the season healthy after not playing last season after the first five games due to a knee injury.
The team may have seen some Hawkeye players leave for the NFL draft but the culture is still there and with an improved offense, they should be able to climb into the top 12 spots to make the CFP Playoffs.