3 biggest predictions for Big Ten in 2024 college football season
The Big Ten will look significantly different in 2024 as the Oregon Ducks, UCLA Bruins, USC Trojans and Washington Huskies have joined the conference from the Pac-12, bringing the total number of teams to 18. While the college football season is set to kick off in less than a month with eight teams in action on August 24, none of the Big Ten teams will hit the field that weekend.
Instead, 14 of the conference's programs will begin their season the following weekend. With the 2024 college football season rapidly approaching, here's a look at three predictions for the Big Ten.
3 biggest predictions for Big Ten in the 2024 college football season
#1: The Ohio State Buckeyes will win the Big Ten Championship Game
The Ohio State Buckeyes are expected to contend for a national title this season as they boast a stacked roster. Their +400 odds to win the national championship trail only the Georgia Bulldogs. Meanwhile, Ohio State's +155 odds to win the Big Ten Championship Game are the best in the conference.
They have not won the conference title game since doing so in 2020. Look for them to end that three-year skid as they reclaim their status as the best team in the Big Ten.
#2: At least four Big Ten programs will go to the College Football Playoff
The College Football Playoff is set to expand from four to 12 teams in 2024. The expansion coincides with the Big Ten expanding to 18 teams due to conference realignment. The five highest-ranked conference winners will qualify for the position, in addition to the next seven highest-ranked teams.
If last year's postseason were played under the same rules, five of the 18 Big Ten teams would have qualified. While that number may not be as high in 2024, look for at least four teams from the conference to reach the postseason.
#3: The Big Ten will compete with the SEC as the best conference in the sport
The landscape of college football will look entirely different in 2024 as conference realignment has affected every major conference. While the SEC has long been considered the top conference in college football, they could face some competition for that title in 2024. Expect the Big Ten to challenge the Southeastern Conference as the premier league in the sport following their additions.