Big Ten Power Rankings 2023-24: Edition 4

Tyson Walker, Michigan State

* Records updated through morning of 2/25/2024

1. Purdue Boilermakers (24-3 overall, 13-3 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 1

As the rest of the conference has beat up on each other, the Purdue Boilermakers have stayed above the fray and are in position to land their second consecutive No. 1 seed. A shocking loss on the road to Ohio State aside, the Boilermakers have been a model of consistency, despite getting the best from every Big Ten foe on a given night. As they prepare for their final set of league games and the upcoming Big Ten Tournament, it will be interesting to see how Matt Painter chooses to play it. Does he cut back minutes for Zach Edey and their other stars to keep them fresh down the stretch? Or, do the Boilermakers keep the foot on the gas pedal? The final three games of the regular season are arguably the toughest stretch of the season, with Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Illinois, providing plenty of tune-up opportunities ahead of the postseason.

2. Illinois Fighting Illini (19-7 overall, 10-5 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 3

For as frustrating as last week's heartbreaking loss on the road to Penn State was, Illinois remains a serious threat to win the conference tournament and do damage come March. They are led by one of the most explosive offenses in the Big Ten, particularly with Terrance Shannon Jr. back in action, but finding a semblance of defense will be the key for Brad Underwood's club down the stretch. Coleman Hawkins is the type of defensive anchor they need, but the perimeter defense needs to be better, especially as they look to a final set of four games that includes strong three-point shooting teams Iowa, Purdue, and Wisconsin.

3. Northwestern Wildcats (19-8 overall, 10-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 5

Since a frustrating pair of road losses to Purdue and Minnesota, Northwestern has kicked it into another gear, with four victories in their last five. Even their lone defeat could be considered a quality one, coming on the road to a suddenly flaming hot Rutgers team. The Wildcats now find themselves firmly in the NCAA Tournament field, poised to make their first back-to-back trips in program history, and are looking to secure the double bye ahead of the Big Ten Tournament. It's a great spot to be for Chris Collins and company, and even better news? Their final four regular season games are all winnable, even if road trips to Maryland and Michigan State appear perilous, meaning the Wildcats could continue to climb in the seed line as Selection Sunday nears.

4. Wisconsin Badgers (18-9 overall, 10-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 2

Through the Big Ten season's first month, Wisconsin appeared ready to go neck-to-neck with Purdue for the conference crown. Unfortunately, February has not been kind to the Badgers, with losses in their last six and sending them reeling heading into the most important part of the season. It's not just one thing causing Wisconsin's back-slide, but offensive woes have been at the heart of it, as they've managed to surpass the 70-point threshold just twice in their last seven. Can Max Klesmit get back on track after a January to remember has been followed up by an underwhelming February? Is there another level veterans like Tyler Wahl and Chucky Hepburn can reach? The Badgers still have a roster that can go deep in March, but they are running out of time to get things back on track, and Purdue and Illinois await on their remaining regular season schedule.

5. Nebraska Cornhuskers (19-8 overall, 9-7 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 4

Fred Hoiberg's Cornhuskers continue to take care of business, winning their last three games after a tiny two-game road skid in early February. None of the three wins will likely move the needle in a major way when it comes to Nebraska's NCAA Tournament hopes, but have been important in showcasing improved consistency from a team that had an unfortunate habit of playing down to their opponents earlier in the season. Not a single ranked team remains on the regular season schedule - while that may hurt the 'Husker's Big Dance hopes, they've already built a strong resume to this point, buoyed by victories over Purdue and Wisconsin. 

6. Michigan State Spartans (17-10 overall, 9-7 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 7

The same old script continues to repeat itself in East Lansing. The Spartans have pushed past their early season woes, and have been arguably the Big Ten's top team not named Purdue over the last month. That evolution doesn't come as much of a surprise - Tom Izzo teams always take their lumps early on, and this roster is far too talented and experienced to have been down for long. Still, a loss to Iowa at home earlier in the week showed there is still work to be done for Michigan State. The Spartans didn't even play particularly bad, it was more of the Hawkeyes shooting lights out, but this MSU team is set to see more difficult opponents down the stretch as they gear up for an NCAA Tournament run. In order to do just that, the Spartans are going to need more from their bigs, namely Maddy Sissoko - as elite of the guards on this roster are, keeping pace in the paint may end up being the X-factor.

7. Minnesota Golden Gophers (17-9 overall, 8-7 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 6

A buttery soft non-conference schedule aside, the Minnesota Golden Gophers have been one of the better stories anywhere in college basketball this winter. After a horrific 2022-23 that saw the Gophers go just 2-17 in the league and finish as one of the worst power conference teams in Division I hoops, they find themselves in the NCAA Tournament bubble mix in late February. The turnaround has been spurred by a number of things - the continued growth of Dawson Garcia and Pharrel Payne down low, the additions of Elijah Hawkins and Mike Mitchell Jr., and improved depth overall - and it doesn't feel like Minnesota is done just yet. With road trips to Nebraska and Illinois still remaining on the schedule, there are numerous opportunities to boost the resume, but the Gophers can't avoid the late-game woes that have become an all-too-common occurrence in the Twin Cities. 

8. Penn State Nittany Lions (14-14 overall, 8-9 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 11

It's unlikely to happen, but to my mind Penn State head coach Mike Rhoades deserves serious consideration for Big Ten Coach of the Year. Rhoades came over from VCU and inherited a roster with some of the most turnover in the league, and has them nearly at .500 inside the Big Ten with three games remaining on the schedule. The Nittany Lions haven't been intimidated by anybody on their schedule - on the contrary, they've beat a number of the conference's best, including Wisconsin and Illinois, despite missing leading scorer Kanye Clary. This is certainly a team that could be a spoiler in the Big Ten Tournament, as they're ending the year strong and look to be building momentum for a potentially much improved 2024-25.

9. Iowa Hawkeyes (16-12 overall, 8-9 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 9

Iowa remains one of the most confusing teams in the Big Ten, a team that had their share of struggles early on before finding themselves the deeper they've gotten into league play. Even so, the Hawkeyes still are prone to the occasional baffling loss, none larger than the Maryland defeat on the road on Valentine's Day. The Hawkeyes do remain in the NCAA Tournament mix after bolstering their resume as of late, but losing over the weekend to Illinois was a major missed opportunity for a team without much margin for error down the stretch. They will get the Illini again, this time in Iowa City to conclude the regular season, but they're running out of opportunities to prove themselves to the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee. The Big Ten Tournament will be huge for them, and we've seen Fran McCaffery-coached teams get hot when it matters most in the past.

10. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (14-12 overall, 6-9 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 12

What was looking like a lost season for Rutgers changed rapidly when Jeremiah Williams was inserted into the rotation, with a four-game win streak through mid-February that suddenly had them gearing up for the postseason. Things have cooled since, with a pair of losses to Purdue and Minnesota, but with coming on the road, the Scarlet Knights still have a chance to end the campaign on a high note over their final five games. None of those five remaining games are against ranked opponents, although road trips to Lincoln and Madison will be tough to overcome for a team that struggles away from Jersey Mike's Arena. Still, Steve Pikiell's team is always a tough matchup and they are another wild card that could play spoiler over the next several weeks inside the league.

11. Maryland Terrapins (14-13 overall, 6-10 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 10

It's been a frustrating second season for Kevin Willard in College Park, as Maryland suffered several baffling losses in the non-conference and now find themselves near the bottom of the Big Ten standings in late February. Jahmir Young continues to be the only consistent source of offense for the Terrapins, but hasn't been enough to carry them to victory in consecutive close losses to Illinois and Wisconsin. The final stretch of conference games will be all about building momentum for next winter and on the bright side, the recent commitment of five-star center Derik Queen provides some solace for a team unlikely to be playing in the postseason.

12. Ohio State Buckeyes (15-12 overall, 5-11 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 13

Two straight frustrating seasons in Columbus doomed Chris Holtmann's tenure, and the program is now searching for new life as they look ahead to 2024-25 and beyond. It remains one of the more attractive jobs in the Big Ten, nestled in a great recruiting area and with plenty of NIL firepower, which means plenty of big names are going to be connected to it. But in the meantime, the Buckeyes are still playing hard under interim Jake Diebler, and the shocking upset of Purdue last week showed this team won't give up without a fight. The NIT is still very much on the table for the Buckeyes and without a ranked foe remaining on the schedule, they still have plenty to play for.

13. Indiana Hoosiers (14-13 overall, 6-10 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 8

Will Mike Woodson get a fourth year leading the Indiana Hoosiers? That's the question swirling around Bloomington as they've sunk near the bottom of the conference standings. Woodson was a strange hire at the time and while there have been a few good moments, Indiana simply has not won as much as the fans believe they should at this point in his tenure. Four consecutive losses have not helped, and the prognosis for ending the year strong doesn't appear encouraging - Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan State are all better basketball teams at this point than the Hoosiers and the lone winnable game (Maryland) comes on the road. Add in Woodson's struggles on the recruiting trail, it just feels like a change is needed with the Big Ten set to expand for the 2024-25 season.

14. Michigan Wolverines (8-19 overall, 3-13 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 14

Chris Holtmann may be gone and Mike Woodson potentially out the door, but Juwan Howard's hot seat isn't far behind after a disastrous 2023-24. The Wolverines have been situated at the bottom of the conference essentially the entire season, and it's hard to take away any bright spots from the year. It's particularly baffling because the ingredients aren't terrible - Dug McDaniel is one of the most exciting young guards in the league, Olivier Nkamhoua and Nimari Burnett have been winning players elsewhere, and Terrance Williams II has quietly had a productive campaign. But, they just haven't worked together and the overall energy around the program is missing. It will be difficult to move on from Howard, one of the architects of the "Fab Five" but it's worth watching as we look towards the offseason.

5 Dark Horse Mid-Major NCAA Tournament Teams for 2024

Will Wade, McNeese

There is no sporting event quite like the NCAA Tournament, and nothing quite as magical as an unexpected "Cinderella" run. In a college sports landscape that seems increasingly defined by greed, big money, and the nefarious intentions of power brokers behind the scenes, a Cinderella run is about as pure as you can get in this day and age, a group of young men coming together to defy expectations and achieve a common goal. Yet, picking who this "Cinderella" team may be remains as difficult as ever - but what's a little pre-March Madness fun without trying? I've picked five teams outside of the power conferences who I believe have the best shot at becoming this year's March darling. Not all five are likely to make the field and plenty is still yet to change in the fluid world of college basketball, but keep your eyes on these candidates the closer we get to the Big Dance. 

McNeese State Cowboys

23-3 overall, 12-1 Southland Conference

Projected Seed: 12-14

For all the off-court turmoil that led to his eventual dismissal at LSU, there's no denying that Will Wade can coach. After serving a 10-game suspension to begin the 2023-24 campaign, Wade has the McNeese State Cowboys rolling, with a 23-3 mark overall and 12-1 record inside the Southland Conference. What makes this particular team interesting is the balance they bring to the equation on both ends. They feature one of the stingiest defenses anywhere in the nation (allowing 61.4 per contest), but can go the other way and blow others away with an explosive, relentless offense. Shahada Wells is the headliner of the offense, the likely Southland Player of the Year, but the Cowboys feature four players who average double-digits, plus big man Antavion Collum (9.5 PPG). It's a balanced group that can hit defenses in a variety of ways, and they aren't going to be intimidate by any of their opponents, already beating NCAA Tournament regulars VCU and Michigan on the year. They are by far and away the top team in the Southland and assuming they finish the job and get to the Big Dance, they are going to be a tough out somewhere in the 12-14 seed range. Ironically, it may be Wade's best chance for a deep NCAA Tournament run - the farthest he's gone in the Big Dance is the second round, and this team certainly has the chance to get to the event's second weekend.

Green Bay Phoenix

17-10 overall, 12-4 Horizon League

Projected Seed: 15-16

Searching for a storyline team to cheer for this March? Look no further than the Green Bay Phoenix, who are in the midst of one of the greatest turnaround seasons in recent college basketball history. After going 3-22 in 2022-23, which led to the dismissal of head man Will Ryan, the Phoenix are nestled near the top of the Horizon League standings in the debut campaign of Sundance Wicks. Beyond having one of the best names in all of college basketball, Wicks has instilled both a toughness in the program that has been lacking for some time. Wicks has also a team that have developed a knack for winning close game after close game. Can they continue that magic into March? They'll have to find a way to overcome Oakland inside the conference, but that goal doesn't seem impossible to overcome - the two teams split the regular season series. With a soft conference schedule the rest of the way, the Phoenix are likely to be one of the three teams set to get a bye in the first round of the Horizon League Tournament, setting them up one step closer to achieving a miraculous turnaround.

New Mexico Lobos

20-6 overall, 8-5 Mountain West

Projected Seed: 8-11

It's hard to call New Mexico a mid-major when the Mountain West is poised to put as many as six teams in the NCAA Tournament field, but the conference still fits the definition as they ramp up for a potentially special March. San Diego State and Utah State are almost sure to be the higher seeds come Selection Sunday but if I had to put my money on one team in the conference to do significant damage, it just may be the New Mexico Lobos. The Lobos remain frightfully inconsistent, but this is a very scary team when they put it all together, and they have the type of roster competition that typically thrives come March Madness. Three tremendous guards lead the way in Jaelan House, Donovan Dent, and Jamal Mashburn Jr., the type of trio that can overwhelm opponents, while big man J.T. Toppin is the glue that holds everything together underneath. Interestingly enough, New Mexico isn't a great three-point shooting team, but they still have one of the most explosive offenses in the Mountain West, a group that run others out of the gym when they're on their "A" game. The key for them has to be figuring out how to play more effectively away from "The Pit" as they've taken their lumps on the road, but have beaten both Utah State and San Diego State in Albuquerque. There's also the Richard Pitino factor on the sidelines, but could this be the team that finally delivers his most successful NCAA Tournament trip yet? For all negative feelings towards Pitino, and I'll save the rant for a different day, he has done a tremendous job assembling this roster and if they can get a favorable path, it wouldn't shock me at all if this team is dancing deep into March.

Samford Bulldogs

23-4 overall, 12-2 Southern Conference

Projected Seed: 13-15

The Southern Conference may be a shell of its former self, but it will be forever known for giving us one of the most exciting NCAA Tournament underdogs of all-time in Steph Curry and the Davidson Wildcats. A decade-and-a-half later, the league may have another "Cinderella" lurking in the form of the Samford Bulldogs, who are poised to make their first NCAA Tournament appearance in over two decades. There may not be a Steph Curry on this roster, but the Bulldogs, like many others on this list, do feature a high-flying offense that provides plenty of reason to tune in. They average nearly 88 points per game, fifth in the nation, and do so by sharing the ball among a deep and experienced roster. Forward Achor Achor may be their top scorer, but it's the backcourt that really paces this team, with Rylan Jones, A.J. Staton-McCray, and Jaden Campbell playing crucial roles. Just as important has been the healthy return of wing Jermaine Marshall, who missed a big chunk of the year but appears to be working his way back to full strength, giving Samford the type of inside-out threat that is needed come NCAA Tournament time. A healthy Marshall adds yet another capable contributor to the regular rotation, making this one of the deepest mid-major teams anywhere in the nation - they can genuinely go 10-12 players deep, another edge ever so critical late in the year. Assuming they can finish the job and get to the Big Dance, this is not a team I'd want to be playing in the first round. If they can find even a shred of defense, the Bulldogs are certainly capable of pulling off a major upset or two.

Appalachian State Mountaineers

21-5 overall, 11-2 Sun Belt

Projected Seed: 12-13

When James Madison shocked Michigan State to kick off the 2023-24 campaign, it appeared as though the Dukes were going to be the Sun Belt favorite and a dangerous mid-major opponent come NCAA Tournament time. The Dukes still remain firmly in the hunt for an NCAA Tournament berth, but have instead been supplanted inside the Sun Belt as a "Cinderella" candidate by the Appalachian State Mountaineers. Not only have the Mountaineers beaten James Madison twice now, both on the road and at home, they've won 11 of their 12 games, with the lone defeat coming at the hands of Texas State on the road. What I find particularly interesting about Appalachian State and why I like them as a "Cinderella" candidate, is that they don't have just one overwhelming strength - they can win games in a variety of different ways. Whether that's going for over 100 in beating another potential NCAA Tournament opponent in Toledo, or grinding out low-scoring victories like they did against James Madison on the road, this is an incredibly versatile Mountaineer team that adjusts as well to their opponent as anybody in the country. Simply look no further than their upset of Auburn earlier in the season - they played a controlled basketball game and forced Auburn's guards to try and beat them, which resulted in the Tigers shooting under 40% from the field and just 11% from three. Appalachian State is not going to be an easy out when it comes to March, and assuming they can get there, this looks like your prime 5-12 upset candidate in the first round.

NFL Mock Draft 2024: Edition 3 (Super Bowl Edition)

Jayden Daniels, LSU

 1. Chicago Bears

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

What Chicago decides to do with the No. 1 overall selection will set the tone for the entire 2024 NFL Draft. Will they trade away Justin Fields and use this pick on Caleb Williams? Or, do they trade down themselves and continue to accumulate draft capital? The prevailing notion appears to be the former, giving the Bears the type of game-changer at the position they have lacked for far too long.

2. Washington Commanders

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Sam Howell and Drake Maye ended up sitting together at the recent Duke-North Carolina game to cheer on their Tar Heels. While they were able to see the Heels come out on top, the scenario had an awkward feel to it, with Drake Maye trending in the direction of being the No. 2 overall pick. Things could change, but it's clear the new regime wants to invest in a new signal-caller and after an illustrious run in Chapel Hill, Maye looks to be the answer.

3. New England Patriots

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

It's a new day in New England, as Jerod Mayo takes the reins as head man. The first priority? Finding a quarterback that can win him football games on Sundays and evidently, Mac Jones is not that guy. Fortunately in this scenario, the reigning Heisman winner falls into their laps at pick three, giving the Patriots a player with a proven pedigree ready for this opportunity.

4. Arizona Cardinals

Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Marvin Harrison Jr. is the best player in this Draft, full stop. But with three QB-needy teams ahead of Arizona on the big board, the Cardinals come out as major winners by landing a generational talent at wide out. Harrison gives the offense much-needed playmaking on the perimeter, and could be just what Kyler Murray needs to hit another gear in 2024 and beyond.

5. Los Angeles Chargers

Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

To me, the fifth pick is where the 2024 NFL Draft starts to get very interesting, with the new-look LA Chargers in position to go a number of different ways with this selection. There may be greater needs than receiver at the moment, but it wouldn't surprise if Keenan Allen or Mike Williams were cap casualties over the offseason. Malik Nabers gives them a cheap replacement with elite playmaking potential, fresh off a huge 2023 in Baton Rouge.

6. New York Giants

Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Coming off a disappointing 2023 and set to turn 32 years of age, it doesn't feel like Darren Waller fits New York's long-term gameplan anymore. It's time to cut their losses, and fortunately, they have a chance to upgrade at the position by adding Brock Bowers in the early first. Even coming off a leg injury that cost him a big chunk of the fall, Bowers is the clear top tight end in this class, a tremendous pass-catcher who will be playing on Sundays for years to come.

7. Tennessee Titans

Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

It'd be a bit of a surprise for the first offensive linemen to come off the board down at seven but you just never know how the chips may fall. Either way, that would be a win for the Titans, allowing them to draft their preferred top-blocker at this spot and continue bolstering a group that is in transition mode. Joe Alt is a proven commodity out of Notre Dame who should immediately bring run-blocking prowess to the table in Tennessee.

8. Atlanta Falcons

Dallas Turner, DE/LB, Alabama

Atlanta has one of the most exciting young offensive cores in the league with Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, but the quarterback position is an obvious need. Unfortunately with the top three options off the board, there just doesn't feel like a QB fit here, meaning the Falcons likely either wait or trade down. If that's the case, it makes sense to invest in a pass rusher if they do stay firm at eight, and Alabama's Dallas Turner offers great value.

9. Chicago Bears

Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Caleb Williams is the type of franchise-altering quarterback every NFL team wants, but the reality is that he's still going to need help around him to succeed. Enter Rome Odunze, fresh off a monster season at Washington in which he finished as a Biletnikoff Award finalist. His ability to create downfield gives the Bears a weapon to take the top off defenses, subsequently opening things up for Cole Kmet and D.J. Moore underneath.

10. New York Jets

Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

With the Jets set to run it back with a (hopefully) healthy Aaron Rodgers, protecting the future Hall-of-Famer will be crucial. Fortunately, Olu Fashanu offers plenty of value at the ten spot - the Nittany Lion product would have been a Top 10 pick last spring had he come out, and put together a strong 2023 campaign.

11. Minnesota Vikings

Byron Murphy II, DL, Texas

Remember when the "Williams wall" made Minnesota's defensive front one of the most imposing in the NFL? This defensive line group has slipped in recent years, but the Vikings have a chance to add a high-upside piece in Byron Murphy II, who seems to be trending up boards after playing an instrumental role in the Longhorn Playoff run this fall.

12. Denver Broncos

J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

It would be genuinely shocking to see Russell Wilson under center for Denver in 2024, but what the Broncos choose to do at the position moving forward remains a mystery. More and more, it feels like they take a swing at a QB with pick 12, and J.J. McCarthy looks to be cementing himself as the "best of the rest" after the top trio goes off the board. McCarthy's a winner, and has the type skillset that Sean Payton could mold for success in the Mile High City.

13. Las Vegas Raiders

Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

One of the big winners at the Senior Bowl, Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell hasn't just played himself into first round pick territory - he has a chance to be the first corner off the board this spring. The three-year starter is a well-rounded prospect with the size, athleticism, and experience to be a rock-solid piece for the Raider secondary for years to come.

14. New Orleans Saints

Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

As I mentioned in my last mock, Taliese Fuaga is the type of prospect that should continue to rise up draft boards as the pre-Draft process unfolds. The former Beaver has impressive measurements who should wow at the Combine. He could end up being the first offensive linemen off the board and at this spot, he's the perfect solution for a Saints team that needs to upgrade a banged up offensive front.

15. Indianapolis Colts

Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Playing in a division that now includes Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Stroud, Indianapolis has work to do to shore up a secondary that was frightfully inconsistent over the past season. They'd consider themselves major winners if Clemson's Nate Wiggins drops to them, an experienced, ball-hawking defender who could easily find himself going in the Top 10 come Draft Day.

16. Seattle Seahawks

Jer'Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois

If the Seahawks want to be a serious threat in the NFC, upgrading a porous rush defense should be a top priority. Johnny Newton was one of the most imposing defenders anywhere in college football during his time at Illinois and has gotten better each and every season. He could give Seattle the type of physical specimen up front they've consistently lacked since Michael Bennett.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars

J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama

After a disappointing conclusion to the 2023 season, the Jaguars will need to invest in their offense to get Trevor Lawrence and the entire unit back on track. Taking an impact blocker like J.C. Latham would work wonders from the very beginning, giving Jacksonville a nice bookend to pair opposite of another one-time Alabama blocker, Cam Robinson.

18. Cincinnati Bengals

Amarius Mims, OL, Georgia

It's set to be an interesting offseason in Cincinnati, with several big names set to hit free agency. Receiver will be a place to watch, with both Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd potentially moving on, but the greater need for the Bengals may be on the offensive line, with Jonah Williams hitting the market. If he does indeed walk, Cincinnati adds a possible replacement here in Amarius Mims, who can play multiple spots along the O-Line.

19. Los Angeles Rams

Laiatu Latu, DE/LB, UCLA

As things stand today, it looks like the Rams are gearing up for what could be their final run at a Super Bowl with Matthew Stafford under center. If that's the case, the defense will need reinforcements, particularly off the edge. Enter Laiatu Latu, an impact pass rusher out of UCLA with all the necessary physical tools to be a disruptor for years to come in Los Angeles.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers

Jackson Powers-Johnson, OL, Oregon

Another big winner from the Senior Bowl was Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson, following up his Rimington Trophy season with a dominant showing at a crucial time in the pre-Draft process. He has now moved into first-round lock territory, and Pittsburgh makes a lot of sense. With Mason Cole set to cash in over the offseason the Steelers are almost surely set to move on, with Powers-Johnson the perfect sit to slide into the vacancy.

21. Miami Dolphins

Graham Barton, OL, Duke

The run on offensive linemen continues here with the Dolphins adding a quality interior blocker in Graham Barton out of Duke. Barton doesn't seem to have the upside of other projected first-round linemen, but he's a proven commodity who will immediately upgrade Miami's ground game and stabilize a position likely to be influx over the offseason.

22. Philadelphia Eagles

Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

This feels like a no-brainer for Philadelphia, who has a clear need at cornerback and now has a shot to add Kool-Aid McKinstry out of Alabama. Although his draft stock seems to be slipping in recent weeks, McKinstry is still widely considered one of the top corners in this cycle, and brings an elite playmaker to the equation for the Eagles.

23. Houston Texans

T'Vondre Sweat, DL, Texas

Beyond Will Anderson Jr., the Texans are thin on proven pass rushers as they prep for the 2024 campaign. They'd love if a piece like Latu or Jer'Zhan Newton were to drop to them at 23, but T'Vondre Sweat offers quite the consolation prize. A relentless interior pass rusher, Sweat seems like the perfect type of player for head coach Demeco Ryans, and he put together a strong showing at the Senior Bowl.

24. Dallas Cowboys

Troy Fautanu, OL, Washington

Keep your eye on cornerback as a potential move for Dallas at this spot, but with McKinstry and others already off the board, I'm looking at offensive line instead. Tyron Smith is set to turn 33 years of age and has struggled to stay healthy in recent years - the Cowboys get a high-upside replacement here in Washington's Troy Fautanu.

25. Green Bay Packers

Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

Yet another offensive tackle off the board? You can never be quite sure which direction Green Bay is going on any given draft day, but they have a clear need at tackle with David Bahktiari's long-term future with the franchise in doubt. The Packers could choose to find a replacement in free agency, but it may be difficult to pass up on a player with the potential of Jordan Morgan, who has all the physical gifts to be a force on Sundays.

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

The Buccaneers have numerous questions on offense, even after winning the NFC South in 2023, but it feels like they'll run it back with a similar core on that side of the ball and instead focusing on adding impact defenders through the Draft. Jared Verse offers tremendous value here in the late first as one of the most NFL-ready edge rushers in this cycle.

27. Arizona Cardinals

Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Arizona landed a superstar wide out earlier in the first, now they work on fixing the rest of the holes on the roster. Offensive line is a notable one, even with the selection of Paris Johnson last spring, but with so many of the top options off the board, I envision them instead working on solidifying the secondary - and Cooper DeJean is too good to resist at 27.

28. Buffalo Bills

Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

If the Bills have any hopes of finally overcoming Kansas City in the AFC, upgrading the offensive weapons around Josh Allen must be a top priority. Fortunately, there could be an abundance of options in the late first, and Keon Coleman has potential to be quite the steal at this juncture. Coleman is the most purely talented wide out in this Draft not named Marvin Harrison Jr., now it's about him developing consistency.

29. Detroit Lions

Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri

Detroit asks a lot of their corners, and it's clear the perimeter defense needs to improve if this team is going to make a run at an NFC Title. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. presents quite the solution - he's long, athletic, and never seems to fatigue, making him an ideal fit in this system. He was instrumental in Missouri's major turnaround this past fall.

30. Baltimore Ravens

Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri

Back-to-back Missouri Tigers? Darius Robinson has the feels of a Baltimore Raven prospect to me, a high-upside defender with scheme versatility and a proven work ethic. Robinson played off the edge primarily in college, but looks to move inside at the next level, giving Baltimore a disruptor who can be used in multiple ways.

31. San Francisco 49ers

Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

San Francisco doesn't have the glaring needs of others in this first round, so why not take a swing at a boom-or-bust prospect like Tyler Guyton? Guyton is raw, starting just 15 times over four seasons in Norman, but has dazzling physical gifts and seems to be scratching the surface of what he can be long-term. If you're the Niners, what do you have to lose?

32. Kansas City Chiefs

Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

With the exception of Rashee Rice, Kansas City's receiver corps was horrific in 2023. While Patrick Mahomes can make things work with whatever he's dealt, this has to be a point of emphasis if the Chiefs are to maintain their standing atop the NFL. Brian Thomas Jr. is cementing himself as a first-rounder and while he doesn't quite have the big-play ability of his former LSU teammate Malik Nabers, he's got ideal NFL size.

Big Ten Power Rankings 2023-24: Edition 3

Chucky Hepburn, Wisconsin

 * Records updated through 2/6/2024

1. Purdue Boilermakers (21-2 overall, 10-2 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 1

For the third straight time, Purdue remains perched atop these rankings, solidifying their hold on the league with a 75-69 victory over Wisconsin over the weekend. It was the type of road win that displayed just how many ways this team can win - neither team shot the ball particularly well in a low-scoring, physical affair but Purdue's edge on the glass and in the paint helped them prevail. It also kicked off a month of February that looks very favorable for the Boilermakers, a month they could realistically go undefeated in if they continue their impressive play. They get Indiana and Minnesota at home, go on the road to Ohio State, and then Rutgers and Michigan to close out the month. It wouldn't be a surprise at all to see the Boilermakers enter the month of March with the league title and No. 1 seed just about locked up.

2. Wisconsin Badgers (16-6 overall, 8-3 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 2

A pair of losses over the last week has Wisconsin going back to the drawing board, but neither defeat should be cause for serious concern in Madison. They dropped a close contest on the road to Nebraska in a classic look-ahead spot and then gave Purdue all they could handle over 40 minutes at the Kohl Center before coming up just short. It will be back on the road over their next two games, but the Badgers still remain in strong position to battle their way into a 2-3 seed come Selection Sunday, assuming they can get back on track. That will require them to find their shooting stroke again from downtown after going a horrific 3-19 from downtown in the Purdue loss. Others will need to emerge beyond Max Klesmit, particularly A.J. Storr, who fell back to Earth with a rough showing over the weekend.

3. Illinois Fighting Illini (17-5 overall, 8-3 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 3

You could certainly make the case that Illinois deserves the second spot as they've ripped off three straight victories, but we'll need to wait until early March to get a definitive answer on whether the Illini or Badgers are the greatest threat to Purdue inside the league. The Illini certainly seem to be playing better offensively, hitting 80 points or above in five of their last six games, but they'll need to find some semblance of defense if they wish to continue their recent hot streak. That means others stepping up on that end of the court beyond big man Coleman Hawkins, who currently leads the team in both blocks and steals.

4. Nebraska Cornhuskers (16-7 overall, 6-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 5

One thing is becoming increasingly clear the deeper we get into the Big Ten season - Fred Hoiberg's Cornhuskers are legit. Despite several ugly results mixed into their record, notably road defeats to Rutgers and Maryland, the 'Huskers own one of the stronger resumes in the conference, with victories over Purdue and Wisconsin to their credit. The key now will be developing more consistency, and the schedule shapes up nicely to do just that. After traveling to Evanston to face off with Northwestern, the Cornhuskers get Michigan and Penn State back in Lincoln, two opportunities to improve their record and ensure they are on the right side of the bubble the closer we get to Selection Sunday.

5. Northwestern Wildcats (15-7 overall, 6-5 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 4

It was a frustrating past week for Northwestern, dropping a pair of hard-fought games that could have easily gone the other way. Losing to Purdue on the road in an overtime thriller is nothing to be ashamed of, but the Wildcats have to feel like they let one get away during this Saturday's defeat at the hands of Minnesota, leading by nine points deep into the second half. At this point, we know who Northwestern is - Boo Buie and their tremendous guard play gives them a chance in every game, but the lack of proven contributors on the interior leave them susceptible against the elite bigs they see on a regular basis in the Big Ten. Things go get easier with a stretch of games that includes Nebraska, Penn State, and Rutgers, but there's plenty of work to be done over the next month-and-half as the Wildcats hope to bolster their NCAA Tournament resume.

6. Minnesota Golden Gophers (15-7 overall, 6-5 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 8

After a surprising 3-1 start to Big Ten play, things seemed to be going south in a hurry for Ben Johnson's club, with four straight losses sinking them to the bottom half of the league standings. But, the Gophers have responded in a way that we just didn't see over the first two seasons of Johnson's tenure, beating Penn State, Northwestern, and Michigan State to get back over .500 in the conference. They remain frustratingly inconsistent, but there's plenty of reason for optimism as Minnesota prepares for the back half of the conference schedule. Dawson Garcia has evolved into a bonafide superstar, Elijah Hawkins is one of the most exciting players in the conference, and the Gophers have their deepest roster they've had in some time. They remain on the outside looking in when it comes to the NCAA Tournament but the Michigan State was a major resume-booster for a team that needed it, and the fact this team has anything to play for into February is a welcome change.

7. Michigan State Spartans (14-9 overall, 6-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 10

Another year in East Lansing, and the same old script seems to be repeating itself. The Spartans had a rough go of things in the non-conference and early portion of Big Ten play, but have been one of the league's best teams over the past month. They entered Tuesdays night winners of five of their last six games, with their lone loss coming to Wisconsin, but were unable to come out victorious in a hard-fought loss in the Twin Cities to Minnesota. Despite that defeat, Tom Izzo's team is clearly finding their rhythm at the right time as they've gotten healthier, and this is arguably the Big Ten's best roster top-to-bottom. They have two capable, experienced lead guards in Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard, a healthy Malik Hall as the glue guy, and a flaming hot Jaden Akins to pour it on from the outside. This is a team that nobody wants to play right now, but we'll learn a lot more over the next couple weeks, with the Spartans playing three of their next four on the road and getting a Top 10 Illinois in East Lansing.

8. Indiana Hoosiers (14-9 overall, 6-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 6

Indiana's Big Ten record was buoyed by winning three of their first four games in the conference, but they've faltered over the last several weeks and now find themselves desperately needing a momentum shift in early February. To be fair to the Hoosiers, the schedule has been absolutely brutal, with three ranked opponents over their last six, and it hasn't helped that star big man Kel'el Ware has been banged up. Yet, the problem remains clear in Bloomington - they star power and a trio of impressive frontcourt pieces, but they need more from the backcourt if they have any hopes of getting back on track. The continued poor health of guard Xavier Johnson has put a real strain on the entire roster - the veteran seemed to be working his way back, but has missed the last two games, including Tuesday night's win over Ohio State. If the Hoosiers have any hopes of a potential NCAA Tournament run, they need him back in action. 

9. Iowa Hawkeyes (13-9 overall, 5-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 7

Fran McCaffery's Hawkeyes remain a very difficult team to get a read on this winter. They appeared to be turning a corner with three straight wins through mid-January, but then have followed it up with three losses in their last four, including winnable games against Indiana and Maryland. As usual, Iowa hasn't had any issues putting the ball in the net, once again featuring one of the league's most explosive offenses, but defensive woes and turnover problems have made them awfully streaky. There's plenty of time for the Hawkeyes to flip the script before a treacherous late February and March slate, but time is quickly running out for this team to have any shot at another postseason berth.

10. Maryland Terrapins (13-10 overall, 5-7 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 9

Speaking of teams that are difficult to get a read on, Maryland comes in at ten in these rankings, despite the fact they could be much higher. They've had a frustrating go of it trying to close out games - their last three losses, prior to their Tuesday night defeat at the hands of Rutgers came by a combined 14 points. Kevin Willard needs to figure out some way to get this team to finish off strong, because the roster has plenty of weapons and College Park remains an exceptionally difficult place to play. That likely means somebody beyond Jahmir Young showing they can handle the offensive load, a consistent issue for a team whose average of 69.5 PPG ranks them 325th nationally.

11. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-11 overall, 5-6 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 12

Penn State almost certainly isn't going to be going to the postseason in Mike Rhoades' first season, but this team deserves a lot of credit for the season they've put together after an offseason of turnover. They've been a .500 team in one of the most balanced leagues in America and have proven they can go out and beat just about anybody on any given night, with a victory over Wisconsin to their credit. The Nittany Lions could easily be a spoiler down the stretch, as they face off with three straight opponents over the next several weeks aiming to bolster their NCAA Tournament resumes in Michigan State, Northwestern, and Nebraska. 

12. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (12-10 overall, 4-7 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 13

It's been a down season in Piscataway but one thing about Steve Pikiell-coached teams is that they never give up fighting. The Scarlet Knights have ripped off two straight road victories, bumping them up to 4-7 in the conference and giving them much-needed momentum as they prepare for the final stretch of the campaign. The offense continues to be an issue, although a healthy Mawot Mag has made a huge difference, but Pikiell seems just fine playing his typical grind it out style. With Wisconsin and Northwestern set to travel to Jersey Mike's Arena next, the Scarlet Knights could be a feisty foe to watch through the month of February.

13. Ohio State Buckeyes (13-10 overall, 3-9 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 11

It's becoming increasingly clear that Ohio State's shocking downfall in 2022-23 was not simply an aberration - the program has real problems they need to solve. Five straight losses have placed them near the bottom of the Big Ten standings, and the path forward isn't clear. The lone glimmer of hope is that they've played things tight over their last two, losing by two to Iowa and three to Indiana. Unfortunately, their reward? A back-to-back with Wisconsin and Purdue next week. They do play Maryland before then, an opportunity to get things right against another team not playing their best basketball, but the season appears lost at this point. It's not crazy to think head coach Chris Holtmann could be heading to the hot seat after an impressive run of consistency over his first five seasons at the helm. 

14. Michigan Wolverines (7-15 overall, 2-9 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 14

Did Michigan athletics sell their soul to win a National Title? As the Wolverine faithful watches Jim Harbaugh return to the NFL and take a host of assistants with him, the results on the hardwood have given them little reason for optimism. Juwan Howard's team has lost five straight games, including a 10-point defeat at home to Rutgers that felt like one of their final chances to steal away a conference win. The roster simply lacks any offensive explosiveness beyond Dug McDaniel, and with a tough stretch ahead of them, it's hard to imagine any significant turnaround coming in Ann Arbor.