Big Ten Power Rankings 2023-24: Edition 2

Boo Buie, Northwestern

* records updated through the morning of 1/17/2024

 1. Purdue Boilermakers (15-2 overall, 4-2 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 1

The Purdue Boilermakers haven't been perfect through the initial stretch of Big Ten league play, but the conference's best roster top-to-bottom means that they remain team to beat until someone proves differently. Zach Edey remains the obvious advantage as he races towards what could be a second consecutive National Player of the Year Award, but the deeper we get into the season, the more importance the play of this backcourt will be on Purdue's eventual success. Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer have shown displayed growth over the course of their sophomore seasons and made this offense much more explosive, but it's the play of Southern Illinois transfer Lance Jones that has been the welcome surprise. The fifth-year vet has been playing key minutes and putting up productive numbers across the board, scoring in double-digits in four straight contests. More importantly, his experience is what this backcourt was lacking a season ago, leading to their eventual demise - Jones could help flip the script this time around.

2. Wisconsin Badgers (13-3 overall, 5-0 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 3

Since jumping out to their first 5-0 start in the conference since 2007-08, the Badgers were caught up in the chaos of the week, losing on the road Tuesday night to Penn State. It's certainly no cause for concern, and they have an opportunity to immediately make amends over the weekend against Indiana. Now at 5-1, their record has been buoyed by the fact the Badgers have gotten three of their first five at home and avoided nearly all of the other conference heavyweights, but this isn't a case of a team beating up on inferior opponents - Wisconsin has won each of their five league games by double-digits. Things will pick up with a tough end to the month and difficult early February, but the Badgers haven't shown any signs of slowing down - they could easily rise to the top spot in these rankings in short order.

3. Illinois Fighting Illini (12-4 overall, 3-2 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 2

Despite all the controversy that surrounds star Terrance Shannon Jr. off-the-court, the Fighting Illini have been impressive on the hardwood through mid-January. Senior forward Marcus Domask has stepped up and taken on a leading role as a scorer, but it's the frontcourt that appears to be the X-factor for the Illini going forward. Quincy Guerrier and Coleman Hawkins have been productive when healthy, but I'm still waiting to see if big man Dain Dainja can reach another gear after a slow start to the campaign. Dainja averaged nearly 21 minutes per game in 2022-23, but has seen his role diminished to single-digit minutes this winter. As the Illini hit the meat of Big Ten play and consistently square off against the elite bigs the league has to offer, Dainja feels like the type of player who could see his role expand.

4. Northwestern Wildcats (12-4 overall, 3-2 Big Ten)

Previous Ranking: 4

A 30-point blowout loss to begin January seemed like an ominous sign for Northwestern, but the Wildcats have quickly righted the ship with victories in two of their last three (and the only defeat coming at the hands of the flaming hot Wisconsin Badgers). Boo Buie continues to be one of the league's most dominant offensive weapons, but it's the Wildcat supporting cast that doesn't receive the respect it deserves. Performances like Brooks Barnhizer's 23-point outburst to power past Penn State or Ty Berry's 22-point showing against Michigan State were lacking at times last winter, showcasing the depth that Chris Collins has worked hard to build. That should help carry this team deep into league play, with the schedule set to pick up in a major way in late January.

5. Nebraska Cornhuskers (13-4 overall, 3-3 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 14

Not since 2014 under Tim Miles have the Nebraska Cornhuskers played in an NCAA Tournament, but the 2023-2024 edition looks like they have a legitimate shot to change that in Lincoln. It was difficult to read get a read on this team after a soft non-conference slate, but the 'Huskers have proven their worth in Big Ten play up to this point, with two of the most impressive conference wins of the season over Purdue and Indiana. Both games felt like the culmination of all the hard work Fred Hoiberg has done in turning around this downtrodden program - they took care of the basketball, shot the ball incredibly well, and fed off the energy that a revived Pinnacle Bank Arena has to offer. There certainly is plenty of work to be done, but this is a well-rounded basketball team that has no issues going up against the top dogs of the conference - they're going to be a tough out down the stretch.

6. Indiana Hoosiers (12-6 overall, 4-3 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 5

Leaning on a young, albeit talented core, it's no surprise that Indiana has looked incredibly streaky over the early portion of league play. They've beat just about everyone they should, with Rutgers being the notable exception, but weren't competitive in a 21-point drubbing at the hands of arch-rival Purdue on Tuesday night. One can somewhat excuse the loss considering it was at Mackey Arena, but it's clear this team is going to need more production from their backcourt if they have any hopes of keeping their NCAA Tournament dreams alive. That likely hinges on veteran Xavier Johnson getting not only back to 100 percent, but getting back into the swing of things in this offense. Johnson has missed seven games with an ankle injury, and then was held out of the starting lineup for the second straight game during the Purdue loss. He's far too important to be coming off the bench, even if Trey Galloway has stepped up and handled the scoring burden in recent contests.

7. Iowa Hawkeyes (11-6 overall, 3-3 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 9

It looked like Iowa was bound for a rebuilding campaign after an 0-3 start to Big Ten action, but one thing has become increasingly clear now that he's the program's all-time wins leader: never count out Fran McCaffery. His Hawkeyes have responded by winning three straight, including an 18-point victory over Nebraska in Iowa City and an impressive road win over Minnesota. Now all of the sudden, Iowa's postseason hopes are renewed, although they have plenty of work to do to build up a resume that is short on quality wins. That could change over the weekend, as the Hawkeyes welcome Zach Edey and Purdue to town in a game that is sure to keep the scoreboard operators busy.

8. Minnesota Golden Gophers (12-5 overall, 3-3 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 11

Considering Minnesota managed just two league victories all of 2022-23, three conference wins at this point in the season is a remarkable achievement for Ben Johnson and company. With that being said, two straight ugly losses have erased the notion of a potential "Cinderella" story in the Twin Cities and left the team scrambling for answers as they prep for a road trip to East Lansing. The road defeat to Indiana was certainly understandable considering Minnesota's longtime struggles at Assembly Hall, but the poor showing against Iowa felt deflating. Elijah Hawkins and Mike Mitchell have been significant improvements over what the Gophers had a season ago, but both have struggled to find a consistent rhythm shooting the ball and in Hawkins case, he's been a complete liability on the defensive end of the court. There's plenty of time to figure things out and two consecutive defeats is nothing to panic about in this league, but the schedule shows no signs of slowing down - not since 2015 have the Gophers gone into Spartan territory and come out on top against Michigan State.

9. Maryland Terrapins (11-6 overall, 3-3 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 8

For as concerning as Maryland's non-conference performance was at times, the Terps have managed to figure things out through the early Big Ten slate and a road win at Illinois over the weekend showcased their full potential. Against the Illini, Maryland finally found their offense over a full 40 minutes but more importantly, put together their most complete stretch of defense on the year, holding Illinois to just 33% from the field and under 28% from three. That bodes well for the Terrapins as they begin a difficult stretch of games against explosive offenses, including Northwestern, Michigan State, Iowa, and Nebraska to wrap up the month.

10. Michigan State Spartans (10-7 overall, 2-4 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 7

This is not the first time we've seen Michigan State struggle through non-conference and the early Big Ten slate, but time is running out for this team to turn it into high gear. Fortunately, the last few weeks have given for optimism - for one, beating Rutgers soundly was a nice start, but more important was the fact the Spartans gave Illinois all they could handle in Champaign before coming up short, 71-68. Others are finally starting to emerge offensively beyond just Tyson Walker, notably Malik Hall, and the defense has looked reinvigorated their last two times out. Obviously, there's a lot of work to be done, but this is beginning to feel more and more like the makings of another magical late season run from Tom Izzo. 

11. Ohio State Buckeyes (12-5 overall, 2-4 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 6

Three straight losses, including one to an extremely beatable Michigan team, has Chris Holtmann going back to the drawing board as the Buckeyes prepare for a road-heavy next several weeks. The main problem is painstakingly clear: the offense has completely disappeared, which has included a disastrous three-point shooting slump that few could overcome. Jamison Battle has still been shooting the ball well, even coming off a rough showing against Michigan, but the Buckeyes are lacking any other scorer who can consistently score from deep. That's left them looking to bruise down low, an ineffective method against many of the physical and defensively sound Big Ten teams on their schedule. It's up to Holtmann to come up with something new and different to spark things, or else the season could continue its downward spiral quick considering the upcoming schedule.

12. Penn State Nittany Lions (9-9 overall, 3-4 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 13

Penn State almost certainly is not going to the postseason in the debut campaign of head coach Mike Rhoades, but this remains a feisty Nittany Lion team that could surprise a few folks down the stretch. After three losses in the previous four games, including a pair of blowouts, Penn State pulled off a major upset by knocking Wisconsin from the ranks of the undefeated. They remain a team that can scratch and claw their way into just about any matchup in the conference, and are the just about the last team you want to see on the road or on a short week of rest. That may not sound like much after the highs of the 2022-23 season in Happy Valley, but building a program in this league is never easy, and Rhoades will hope to bring these positives forward as they look ahead to next season.

13. Michigan Wolverines (7-10 overall, 2-4 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 12

Was the magic of the Fab Five's return to Ann Arbor all Michigan needed to turn around a season that was heading for disaster? It seems unlikely, but the Wolverines at least gathered some momentum after a 73-65 home win against Ohio State. They're going to need it as they prepare for stretch that includes Illinois and road trips to Purdue and East Lansing, particularly considering star guard Dug McDaniel's suspension. But, even that suspension is a perfect representation of just how strange this winter has been - McDaniel is suspended for road games only, but still expected to dress for games at the Crisler Center. It's simply continuation of a sense of uneasiness that has pervaded the program for some time now, and has Wolverine fans already looking forward to football season.

14. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (9-7 overall, 1-4 Big Ten)

Previous Rank: 10

A season-opening loss to instate foe Princeton set the stage for what has been a frustrating 2023-24 in Piscataway, which has only continued in conference play. The Scarlet Knights are off to a 1-4 start in the conference, and the momentum gained in their lone win over Indiana was quickly erased by an 18-point defeat at the hands of Michigan State. There's still hope things can be turned around, but Rutgers desperately needs their offense to find some type of rhythm - perhaps a fully healthy Mawot Mag could be that spark. Mag, who has played in just eight games this season, has scored in double-digits in each of his last four games, including 24 against Iowa. 

College Football Way-Too-Early Top 25 for 2024

Quinn Ewers, Texas

1. Georgia Bulldogs

Kirby Smart's Bulldogs may not have been able to pull off the three-peat, but Georgia remains an absolute machine who should be entrenched as a National Title frontrunner every single year. There will be notable names moving on as there always is in Athens, namely tight end Brock Bowers, but the Bulldogs received quite a treat when quarterback Carson Beck announced he would be back for the 2024 campaign. Beck was impressive as a first-year starter this past fall and should enter next season as a Heisman favorite, although the supporting cast around him will still have to materialize. With that being said, it's likely names like Ladd McConkey, Dillon Bell, and Arian Smith will be back in action on the perimeter, with Oscar Delp a prime breakout candidate at tight end. On the defensive side of things, the usual collection of NFL Draft selections will depart, but elite defensive back Malaki Starks gives the Bulldogs a fine starting point. The key, however, will be whether Georgia's front seven can return to its 2021 and 2022 ways after a bit of a "down" 2023. There's no shortage of talent, but several pieces will need to emerge if Kirby and company are to take home their third National Title in four years next fall.

2. Ohio State Buckeyes

For as frustrating as three straight losses to arch-rival Michigan have been, Ohio State should take solace in the fact they've played the last two National Champions awfully tight and remain on the cusp of something special. Is 2024 the team that can finally get Ryan Day over the top in Columbus? There seems like a window here, particularly if the transfers Day and staff have brought in acclimate quickly, namely Will Howard and Quinshon Judkins. Howard comes over from Kansas State and brings ample experience and the ability to create with his legs. He's no C.J. Stroud, but seems to be an upgrade over the departed Kyle McCord, and has loads of talent to work with throughout the Buckeye offense. Meanwhile, Judkins will hope to spark an Ohio State ground game that has lacked bite over the last two seasons. He'll pair up with tailback TreVeyon Henderson, who made the surprising decision to hold off on the pros for one more season. On defense, the Buckeyes will return several key pieces, including corner Denzel Burke and defensive linemen Tyleik Williams, both of whom could have been first day NFL Draft selections. Just as important, coordinator Jim Knowles looks set to run it back for the third time with this defense after stellar showings in his first two seasons at the helm - 2024 could be the year this group cements itself as one of the best in the country.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide

I had Alabama perched at No. 1 in the initial draft of these rankings before Nick Saban's bombshell retirement earlier in the week, creating loads of intrigue in Tuscaloosa as the Tide prepare for 2024. Now Kalen DeBoer takes over, and will have the unenviable task of replacing the greatest college football coach of all-time. Fortunately, he is blessed with a loaded roster on both sides of the ball. That includes stability at the quarterback position and what should be an improved offensive line, two of the most notable weaknesses for Alabama throughout the 2023 campaign. The defense is going to be in for a rebuild, with names like Dallas Turner, Kool-Aid McKinstry, and Terrion Arnold all set to move on. But, this is Alabama and there's no shortage of talent waiting in the wings, including one of the best young defenders in all of the land, Caleb Downs. Downs' 107 tackles were the most by a Tide freshman in decades and the encore could be even more exciting, as he'll play an outsized role on this new-look team in 2024.

4. Texas Longhorns

A new era in the SEC begins for the Texas Longhorns, but Steve Sarkisian has built up the program to the point that the move up in competition shouldn't be a problem. On both lines of scrimmage and at the skill positions, the Longhorns now resemble an elite SEC team, a testament to the work this staff has not only done on the recruiting trail, but in the player development department. The depth throughout the roster should be huge, as plenty of notable pieces move on, and the core remains one of the best in college football. Quarterback Quinn Ewers could be going pro, but my money is that the gunslinger will be back for one more run in Austin, and he has a rising star joining him in the backfield in C.J. Baxter. Defensively, there will be reloading to do up front, but linebacker Anthony Hill gives the front seven a proven commodity to work with, and the secondary could actually improve this next season. The schedule may be tougher top-to-bottom, but Sark and company showed that they deserve to be in the conversation of college football's elite last fall - now it's time to double down and prove it in 2024.

5. Michigan Wolverines

After nearly a decade in charge at his alma mater, Jim Harbaugh climbed the mountaintop and secured Michigan their first National Title since sharing the honor in 1997. It's a special moment for Wolverine fans who have endured plenty of ups-and-downs going all the way back to the end of the Lloyd Carr era, but a celebration that also comes with some trepidation. Harbaugh has been pretty open regarding his interest in returning to the NFL and once again, it's likely the Wolverines will endure another offseason of will he or won't he in Ann Arbor. Despite that, the prognosis for 2024 still appears promising, especially if quarterback J.J. McCarthy returns, which feels likely. He'll have to make do without trusty sidekick Blake Corum in the backfield, but other faces appear ready to step up and lead the offense, such as versatile wide out Semaj Morgan. On the other side of the ball, there's going to be plenty of names off to the NFL, but there's not a school in the country that reloads as well on this side of the ball as Michigan. They do an excellent job not just reeling in elite talent, but bringing in players that fit their culture and scheme, which should ensure there's little to no drop-off this upcoming fall. It's hard to say definitively one way or the other whether the Wolverines can repeat in 2024 with Harbaugh's future so in doubt but at the very least, they should be firmly in the mix.

6. Ole Miss Rebels

Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss have been winners of the early offseason, making splash after splash in the transfer portal after an 11-win 2023 campaign. Does this mean they're ready to make a jump and seriously contend for a National Title? Losing Quinshon Judkins, who made a rather surprising decision to enter the portal and eventually move on to Ohio State, certainly hurts, but QB Jaxson Dart should ensure the offense keeps on humming. Yet, it's the defensive side of the ball I'm the most interested in, as Kiffin and staff have been reeling in elite defenders from the portal just about daily. That includes Texas A&M transplant Walter Nolen, who I believe has a chance to be the most dominant defensive linemen in all of America this next fall. It will be fascinating to see how well the defense, and team in general, meshes after so many came in through the portal. On paper, the Rebels have enough talent to make the College Football Playoff, especially in the expanded 12-team field, but ensuring all the pieces fit together will decide their fate in the upcoming year.

7. Penn State Nittany Lions

Penn State has been stuck as third wheel to Michigan and Ohio State in the Big Ten East for years but as the league prepares to expand, they're hoping it's the catalyst they need to jump up and win a conference title. That's not to say it will be easy, with the addition of four strong programs from the West Coast, but the Nittany Lions are well-built to take advantage of this new era of Big Ten football. The roster is loaded with young talent still coming into its own, which includes quarterback Drew Allar, set to begin his second season as starter in 2024. Allar was productive in Year One running the offense, but left something to be desired, particularly in big games and moments. Fortunately, he has a two-headed monster at tailback to help him out in Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton, and potentially a new top target in Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming. The defense will be in transition mode after coordinator Manny Diaz took the Duke head coaching job, but were blessed with several surprising returnees to their defensive line, plus a rising star in linebacker Abdul Carter.

8. Clemson Tigers

2021 and 2022 saw Clemson slip in national standing, but 2023 was the wake up call Dabo Swinney and the Tigers needed, or so they hope. This team was far better than a nine-win team, and a .500 showing in a weak ACC is inexcusable. Perhaps that should add extra motivation for a program that remains as talented as ever, but one still working on getting all the parts to fit together. That includes quarterback Cade Klubnik, who had his fair share of rocky moments in his first season as starter, but did enough to believe there could be a chance for major improvement in 2024. He will have the advantage of having his play-caller back for a full offseason, assuming OC Garrett Riley stays put, but also more responsibility on his shoulders now that tailback Will Shipley is set to move on. The defense also moves several program staples, but has loads of young talent on the defensive line, and the linebacker corps could be the best in the ACC in 2024, as Barrett Carter returns for a fifth year and five-star freshman Sammy Brown brings an injection of energy. Just as important as the product on the field for Clemson is the landscape of the ACC - Florida State seems in store for a rebuilding campaign, and no other program has shown they can consistently hang with the Tigers in this league. Needless to say, that bodes well for Clemson's chances to have a redemptive campaign and return to the Playoff next fall.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

2024 feels like it's going to be a huge year for Marcus Freeman to show he is the long-term answer in South Bend. Freeman has had two good teams at Notre Dame and is now 19-8 total, but Year Three is likely to tell us whether he can bring them to an elite level on the national stage. Freeman brought in a transfer quarterback from the ACC for the second straight year in Duke's Riley Leonard, one of the game's most electrifying players when fully healthy. Freeman also went out and made one of the splashier coordinator hires of the coaching carousel by luring Mike Denbrock away from LSU after he helped Jayden Daniels bring a Heisman to Baton Rouge. Those two additions put the offense in a good place, but the X-factor remains out wide - can someone finally emerge at receiver to help the Irish go toe-to-toe with the true giants of the sport? The good news is that the defense looks like it will be one of the best in the country, with veteran pieces like safety Xavier Watts and linebacker Jack Kiser set to return.

10. Oregon Ducks

Life in the Big Ten begins for Oregon, and they will do so with a new face under center after Bo Nix exhausted his collegiate eligibility. Fortunately, the Ducks went out and landed not only a QB that can help them win immediately in former UCF and Oklahoma transfer Dillon Gabriel, but the type of long-term prospect they need to win in their new home in former five-star Dante Moore. Gabriel, who looks to be locked into the starting job for 2024, has the type of arm to lift the entire offense, which will be needed as they replace key names like Mar'Keise Irving and Troy Franklin. The defense looks to be in very good shape, as they'll return the vast majority of a unit that was strong throughout 2023, with the Washington losses being notable exceptions. Adding Kansas State transfer Kobe Savage gives this team a hard-hitting, enforcer type that they've been lacking at times in recent years.

11. Missouri Tigers

Missouri's surprising 11-2, Cotton Bowl season was no fluke from Eli Drinkwitz and company - this program has a chance to cement themselves in the upper echelon of the SEC in 2024. Quarterback Brady Cook and wide receiver Luther Burden III could be the nation's top QB-WR combo next fall, and Theo Wease's return came as a welcome surprise in the last week. Those returnees will ensure the aerial attack is on its "A" game in 2024, particularly as the Tigers lose tailback Cody Schrader after a monster year. On the other side of the ball, coordinator Blake Baker parlayed Missouri's success into the same gig at LSU, but the unit's performance shouldn't drop off a cliff. Drinkwitz and staff have done a great job filling holes in the transfer portal, and they also welcome one of the nation's top freshman in defensive end Williams Nwaneri, who will play from Day One. There's plenty of reason to believe the momentum will keep on rolling here and the expanded Playoff provides ample opportunity - if the SEC was still in its division structure, I'd argue the Tigers have a legitimate shot to challenge Georgia for SEC East supremacy.

12. Washington Huskies

The Huskies may have been unable to finish the job and complete the perfect 15-0 season, and Kalen DeBoer's decision to take the Alabama job is a major gut punch.  Yet, something tells me thatWashington isn't done just yet as they move on to the Big Ten. There will be a new QB now that Michael Penix departs, which looked to be Mississippi State transfer Will Rogers before DeBoer's decision, forcing him to reenter the portal. Whoever does end up starting will need others to emerge at the skill positions, and replacements along the O-Line, which took home the Joe Moore Award this past fall. Defensively, this group epitomized a bend not break mantra, and they could once again in 2024. They'll lose a major name up front in Bralen Trice, a likely first-rounder this spring, but should return plenty of experience throughout the back seven.

13. Florida State Seminoles

Needless to say, it was a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise special season in Tallahassee, which will likely provide an extra sense of motivation around the Florida State football program into 2024. Unfortunately, the losses on both sides of the ball are likely to be severe, although Mike Norvell and staff have done enough to keep this team on track towards a second straight ACC Title. D.J. Uiagalelei is set to take over at quarterback for the departed Jordan Travis after a one year pit stop at Oregon State. Uiagalelei is unlikely to ever fully live up to his five-star billing, but the one-time Clemson QB has proven to be a steady signal-caller who shouldn't have issues keeping the rest of this offense rolling. With that being said, others are going to have to emerge, with top playmakers like Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson off to the NFL. The defense will be hit hard by attrition up front, but the staff has done excellent work so far in the portal and on the back-end, Shyheim Brown has a chance to cement himself as one of the best in America after playing a team-high 677 snaps in 2023. 

14. Tennessee Volunteers

Volunteer fans got a sneak peek of the future in Tennessee's 35-0 dismantling of Iowa in the Cheez-It Bowl, and 2024 is likely to bring more fireworks to Knoxville. Head coach Josh Heupel has the personnel to develop one of the nation's most explosive offenses, assuming young quarterback Nico Iamaleava can grow up quickly after starting the bowl game. It's early, but Iamaleava is the most talented Tennessee quarterback since Peyton Manning, and he has two of the best wide outs in the SEC joining him in Squirrel White and Bru McCoy, who should be healthy next fall after missing a big chunk of 2023. The offense is going to have to live up to the hype, because the defense is likely to be a work in progress once again, with key transfers at all three levels. Defensive coordinator Tim Banks was considered a candidate for several head coaching vacancies over the offseason, including inside the state at Middle Tennessee, but this fall he'll have to prove his worth with so much turnover.

15. USC Trojans

After a frustrating campaign that saw the Trojans slip to 8-5 and with rumors swirling about Lincoln Riley's future, USC's offseason so far has been decidedly ... normal. Now, that could change, but Riley appears to be staying put, and made the necessary change on the defensive side of the ball by firing Alex Grinch and bringing on D'Anton Lynn from crosstown rival UCLA. Lynn will have to overhaul a unit that couldn't stop anyone in 2023 and could be in store for a rude awakening as they enter Big Ten play, although there is no shortage of talent on that side of the ball. Offensively, no coach gets more from his playmakers than Riley, although there has been some question in the early offseason on who would get the first crack at replacing Caleb Williams at quarterback. It appears like it will be Miller Moss, who has been with the program for several seasons and threw for six touchdowns in the Holiday Bowl win, but USC also brought on UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava late in the process. Maiava broke the 3,000-yard threshold playing in a fun Rebel offense this past season and was initially pledged to Georgia before a sudden flip. He's likely to push Moss into the spring and deep into fall camp, which could add a layer of intrigue to this program as they begin a new day in a new league.

16. Utah Utes

Considering the circumstances, Utah should feel proud of the fact they were able to muster together an eight-win campaign. Quarterback Cam Rising and tight end Brant Kuithe missed the entire year and tailback Micah Bernard just about, robbing the Utes of three of their most important pieces offensively. The trio is all back and hopefully healthy for 2024, but the offense is still in for an adjustment after the transfer of leading rusher Ja'Quinden Jackson. Kyle Whittingham-coached teams always play elite defense and I suspect that will be the case again this year, although there are some big names moving on, notably safeties Cole Bishop and Sione Vaki. Fortunately, there's enough returning up front to ensure the Utes remain as stout and physical as ever, which should give them a leg up on the competition in the new-look Big 12.

17. Arizona Wildcats

Arizona was one of the biggest surprises in the country in 2023, as Jedd Fisch's team won ten games in just his third season at the helm. Even so, it feels like the Wildcats and Fisch aren't getting the type of national attention they deserve, pretty remarkable considering they won one single game less than two years ago. That could change with an impressive encore in 2024, and the roster has all the makings to do just that. Quarterback Noah Fifita played a key role in Arizona's turnaround and has the opportunity to build on it in 2024, particularly with top target Tetairoa McMillan set to return. Tailback Jonah Coleman is likely to join them, giving the Wildcats plenty of weapons at the skill positions, all operating behind an offensive line set to bring back just about everyone. The defense is set to experience some turnover and roster shakeup but finished this past season strong, which is likely to provide the necessary momentum they need to thrive in their move to the Big 12. 

18. Oklahoma Sooners

Yet another team set to begin life in a new conference, Oklahoma will be eager to show what they can do in the SEC after ruling the Big 12 for most of the 2010s and early 2020s. Head coach Brent Venables oversaw healthy improvements on both sides of the ball as the Sooners went 10-3, but the coaching staff still experienced shakeup over the offseason, with OC Jeff Lebby taking the Mississippi State and Venables parting with DC Ted Roof. Oklahoma is still going to score, with Jackson Arnold set to take over for Dillon Gabriel under center, but it's the defense that is always the X-factor in Norman. It's clear Venables felt that Roof wasn't the right fit to lead the Sooner defense into this new era, but the good news is that the personnel appears in fairly good shape. Oklahoma plugged holes through the portal up front and have plenty of contributors returning in the back-seven, including linebacker Danny Stutsman, who made the surprising decision to run it back for one final go with the Sooners. Still, it will be an adjustment as OU begins an SEC schedule, loaded with a November that includes road trips to Missouri and LSU, plus a home game with Alabama, but it's Venables has enough here to keep them in the conference title mix.

19. LSU Tigers

Despite a pair of ten-win seasons to open up his tenure and a Heisman performance from Jayden Daniels, Brian Kelly didn't miss around this offseason. He fired defensive coordinator Matt House and several key assistants, and is looking at a potentially splashy offensive coordinator hire after Mike Denbrock took the same job at Notre Dame. Whoever does take over at OC may not have Jayden Daniels or superstar wide out Malik Nabers, but Garrett Nussmeier has looked impressive in relief duties and appears ready to slide into a starting role. New faces will have to emerge out wide, but Nussmeier will have the benefit of working behind one of the SEC's best offensive lines, which helped supercharge Daniels' Heisman season. Blake Baker comes over from Missouri to run the defense and will look to breath new life into a group that felt lifeless throughout most of 2023. Can he get Harold Perkins back on track after a surprisingly quiet sophomore season? Rebuilding the secondary will also be a key priority after the Tigers missed on several transfers in the defensive backfield this past offseason.

20. Liberty Flames

Liberty's inclusion into a New Year's Six bowl game as the nation's Group of Five representative was certainly controversial, and a blowout loss to Oregon in the Fiesta Bowl seemed to prove many of the detractors correct. But, that shouldn't completely erase what was all in all a very successful first season in the Conference USA, which saw the Flames win a conference title and go 13-0. The early returns from the offseason have been promising, too - head coach Jamey Chadwell remains a hot commodity in the coaching carousel but decided to stay put, while quarterback Kaidon Salter is set to return after a brief moment testing his options in the portal. The defense will undergo a bit of a rebuilding stage, but the Liberty staff has been working hard in the portal, and the secondary returns ample experience, most notably at the cornerback spots. Add in a schedule that is once again buttery soft, it's not crazy to think Liberty could be in the mix for a spot in the expanded Playoff, especially with six conference champions locking down automatic berths.

21. Kansas Jayhawks

Kansas continued on their upwards trajectory in 2023, winning nine games - which becomes even more impressive when you consider that star QB Jalon Daniels missed most of the year with a back injury. Daniels is back and should be back close to 100 percent, giving the Jayhawks one of the most exciting players in the Big 12. He'll be joined by a host of proven playmakers, including tailback Devin Neal, and wide outs Lawrence Arnold and Quentin Skinner. They give new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes a whole lot to play with as he takes over the reigns of the offense from Andy Kotelnicki, who toook the same role at Penn State. The big news on the defense is the departure of fearsome edge rusher Austin Booker after he tallied eight sacks for the Jayhawks in 2023. Fortunately, the secondary gives this unit a good starting point, as proven corners Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson have both announced they'll be back in Lawrence next fall.

22. Louisville Cardinals

Jeff Brohm returned to his alma mater and promptly brought them to the ACC Championship Game, and his encore campaign could be even better. New faces will take center stage offensively with Jack Plummer and Jawhar Jordan set to leave, but Brohm's work in the portal should pay immediate dividends. Expect former Oregon and Texas Tech transfer Tyler Shough to get the first crack at the starting quarterback job, while Peny Boone arrives from Toledo to bolster the running back room. The defense should return a lot and is in line for significant improvement after an up-and-down 2023 season. Defensive end Ashton Gillotte is one of the most underrated defenders anywhere in the country after tallying 11 sacks last fall.

23. Oklahoma State Cowboys

For all the changes the Big 12 has seen and is yet to see, Mike Gundy remains a constant. The Oklahoma State head man is set to begin his 20th season in charge in Stillwater in 2024, and he'll do so with the help of his star tailback, Ollie Gordon. Gordon led all FBS rushers with 1,732 yards this past season and should be considered a preseason Heisman candidate entering next year. Fortunately, Gordon is not the only key Cowboy set to return, as QB Alan Bowman was granted another season of eligibility, and all five offensive linemen are expected to return. The defense loses a couple key names from a unit that was just about average across the board in 2023, but they'll be bolstered by the return of tackling machine Nickolas Martin at linebacker, who had 140 stops this past fall.

24. Tulane Green Wave

It felt like only a matter of time before Willie Fritz was going to move on from Tulane and he decided this offseason was the one to make the jump, taking the Houston job. However, the program rebounded nicely by snagging Troy head man Jon Sumrall, a rising name in the profession who should keep the momentum going here. Sumrall got an early win when he convinced Oregon transfer Ty Thompson to head on south, giving the Green Wave a gifted signal-caller who was considered a five-star prospect by some coming out of the high school ranks. Thompson will lead the offense, while the defense is expected to be in a good spot thanks to the likely return of linebacker Jesus Machado and several others throughout the front seven. Add in the fact that SMU's departure makes the Green Wave a clear favorite in the new-look American Athletic, expect Sumrall to hit the ground running and have this team in the mix for the expanded College Football Playoff field.

25. NC State Wolfpack

Dave Doeren's NC State program just keeps on consistently winning, and they're set up to succeed once again in 2024. With Brennan Armstrong graduating and M.J. Morris transferring, it's Grayson McCall time, as the former Coastal Carolina transfer makes the jump to the ACC. McCall is a unique quarterback but an extremely accomplished one, and he'll have plenty to work with. That includes wide out Kevin Concepcion, who was a revelation as a freshman by hauling in 71 passes for 839 yards. The defense will miss two program staples in Payton Wilson and Jaylon Scott, but appears to still be in fairly good shape. The defensive line returns loads of experience and while the secondary loses several key pieces, there is help coming in through the portal.

College Football Playoff National Championship Prediction 2023-24

J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

Monday night's National Championship Game will bring a sense of finality in more ways than one - not only will it conclude the 2023 college football season, it will be the final year a National Champion is determined from a four-team Playoff field, the last time Michigan & Washington face off before they become Big Ten foes (at least for the foreseeable future) and the final run for some of the sport's stars, such as Michael Penix, Blake Corum, and more. If that wasn't enough reason to tune in, the game will feature a fascinating clash of styles between the hard-nosed Wolverines and a fun-to-watch Huskies team that will throw the ball all over the field. Needless to say, the 2023 season should cap off in epic fashion between a pair of teams that deserve to be in the spotlight.

Michigan may enter as the slight favorite, but it's hard to deny that the Huskies feature the best player on the field in Michael Penix. After a record-setting season, Penix built on it with the most dominant quarterback performance in a Playoff game we've seen since Joe Burrow in 2019. He was throwing absolute lasers all over the field against a quality Texas defense, finishing with 430 yards of passing. Now, he gets his greatest test of the 2023 campaign in this Wolverine defense, which is led by an experienced and well-coached secondary. Michigan is just not a pass defense that's going to break down very often - they have elite defenders at every level and play an exceptionally disciplined brand of football. With that being said, Michigan has yet to face a vertical passing offense quite like Washington's. Even against some of the better opponents on their schedule, the Wolverines have faced teams that occasionally struggle to get the ball down the field through the air - that just isn't the case with Penix and his collection of receivers, including Rome Odunze, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan. The chess match between Penix and this Michigan secondary will not only be a deciding factor, it's one of the best pure matchups we've seen on the year. Yet, Washington will still need their ground game to give their offense a semblance of balance, and the injury to Dillon Johnson in the semifinal is cause for concern. Johnson has been the unsung hero for Washington down the stretch, but left the Sugar Bowl early and has been limited in practice all week. It sounds like Johnson should play, but he'll be far from 100 percent, which could have an outsized impact in this one. For as dominant as Washington's pass offense is, Johnson plays such a key role in situational and short yardage moments - not having him fully healthy is the type of disadvantage that can swing even matchups such as this one. 

It should be a fascinating battle the other way, too, as a ground-and-pound Michigan offense will look to show what they can do against this Husky defense. The Wolverines aren't going to lean on the big play as much as Washington, but that's worked out just fine for them on the year. They play a much more methodical brand of football, on that might not be quite as exciting but is very effective. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy responded to his detractors with a stellar showing in the Rose Bowl win, and now looks to keep the momentum alive against a susceptible Washington secondary. Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson remain the top weapons on the perimeter, but I'm curious to see how ultra-versatile Semaj Morgan responds after a poor showing in the semifinal win. Morgan gives this Wolverine offense a dynamic that has been missing in recent years, but he'll have to prove he's ready for this stage. On the ground, Michigan is going to lean on their ground game until Washington proves they can consistently stop it, which means we are going to see a heavy dosage of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards in this one. Those two operate behind a Michigan O-Line not quite at full strength, with Zak Zinter on the sidelines still after his horrific injury in the Ohio State game, but still playing excellent football. That battle in the trenches between Michigan and this Husky defensive front should be a good one - Washington may not have elite defensive numbers, but they've stepped up when needed and feature a front seven that should be able to put up a fight against the Wolverines. In particular, Bralen Trice, who is likely to be hearing his name called in the first round of the NFL Draft come this spring, was dominant in the semifinal and will look to create the chaos necessary to disrupt this Michigan offense.

There's plenty to like about this National Championship Game matchup, from the matchups on the field to the feelings of freshness from seeing two programs at this stage that haven't played for a National Title in some time. It also feels different than what we saw last year - we should have a competitive game that will likely be decided deep into the second half. I don't think you can go wrong picking either one of these teams based on what they've done this year and how they match up, but after four months of football, I remain steadfast in my belief that my preseason National Title pick Michigan is going to finish the job. This is the most well-rounded team in the country and for all the distractions off-the-field, the team has looked focused and hungry all season long. It feels like Michigan has been building to this eventual goal for some time now, and even though Washington is a worthy foe, I expect them to finish the job come Monday night.

The Pick: Michigan, 35 Washington, 31

College Football Playoff Picks 2023-24: Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl

Rome Odunze, Washington

Rose Bowl: (#4) Alabama Crimson Tide vs. (#1) Michigan Wolverines

Line: Michigan -1.5

O/U: 44.5

For as strange of an offseason as it has been off the field for Michigan, the Wolverines enter this year's College Football Playoff a perfect 13-0, fresh off their third consecutive Big Ten Title. The program has to feel as though they have something to prove after a pair of short-lived Playoff appearances, and now get an opportunity against Nick Saban and the mighty Alabama Crimson Tide. Alabama's controversial inclusion in the Playoff aside, the door is open for Saban to claim his seventh National Title with the Tide, this time as the "underdog" in the four-team field.

In a sport increasingly defined by elite quarterbacks and wide receivers, Michigan feels like a bit of a throwback to a different era in college football. That's not to take anything away from J.J. McCarthy, who has had an impressive year, but this Wolverine team is predicated on a power-run attack behind a physical offensive line, with an elite defense going the other way. Blake Corum is fully healthy this time around and will join up with Donovan Edwards to give Alabama's rush defense their toughest challenge of the 2023 campaign. On the outside, the Wolverines don't feature a superstar, but Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson provide plenty of explosiveness, while tight ends Colston Loveland and A.J. Barner operate underneath. They should be an interesting test for an Alabama secondary that has several future NFL pieces, most notably the likely first CB off the board this spring in Kool-Aid McKinstry, but has experienced plenty of ups-and-downs. The Tide defense does seem to be playing their best ball at the right time, and I expect them to come out aggressively - this game could end up coming down to the chess match at the line of scrimmage between the Alabama front and Michigan O-Line. The Wolverines have been great up front, but Dallas Turner and company will be fired up and ready to go. It feels like this Tide defense is going to see whether McCarthy has the tools to beat them, a guy who has something to prove himself after several key turnovers in last year's loss to TCU. McCarthy has played big at the most important moments of the 2023 season, but is he ready for this type of stage against this Tide defense? This is the type of game where a quarterback can step up and become a forever campus legend - just ask Stetson Bennett.

We've become accustomed to such dominant Alabama teams that this year's 12-1 finish and SEC Title doesn't feel altogether very special. But, the reality is that this is probably Saban's best coaching job since he's taken over in Tuscaloosa, keeping the Tide on track after a rough September and seemingly getting better each and every week. Quarterback Jalen Milroe has had a turbulent season, but the dual threat has been tremendous over the last two months of the season, and gives this Tide offense an element they haven't had in the past with his legs. Milroe is still prone to the turnover or mistake, which is a concern against an opportunistic Michigan defense, but he has the ability to open up games in a way this Wolverine defense hasn't seen much of on the year. What's even more amazing about Milroe is that he's kept the Tide offense firing even though his supporting cast has felt very un-Alabamaesque, with Jermaine Burton on the perimeter and Roydell Williams and Jase McClellan out of the backfield. Burton has evolved into the big-play threat this team needs, but I am curious if another Tide pass-catcher will step up - Isaiah Bond is the obvious candidate, but both face down a stifling Wolverine secondary. Much like the matchup the other way, the action at the line of scrimmage is also going to play an outsized role. The Tide offensive line has improved drastically after a rough start to the season, but they still face quite the challenge in this one. The Wolverines don't have just one elite pass rusher this season, but they're deep and experienced, the type of defensive front that is going to play well deep into this contest. It feels like whichever group comes out with more energy and an edge in the physicality contest is going to put their team in position to come out on top.

For all the frustration from Florida State fans over their team being left out of the four-team field, all of which I believe to be valid, what a semifinal matchup this one is going to turn out to be. Two of the sport's most recognizable brands, two elite head coaches, and two tremendous football teams set to battle it out in college football's best venue ... what more could you ask for? It should be a good game, too, with neither side having a clear advantage either direction. Michigan was my preseason National Title pick so it feels only right for me to stick with them to conquer the Tide and set the program up for their first in over two decades.

The Pick: Michigan, 31 Alabama, 28

Sugar Bowl: (#3) Texas Longhorns vs. (#2) Washington Huskies

Line: Texas -4

O/U: 64.5

Not since an unfortunate injury to Colt McCoy in the 2009 National Championship Game have we seen a Texas team this close to hoisting a National Title, but standing in their way is the undefeated Washington Huskies and Heisman winner Michael Penix. As opposed to the Rose Bowl, which has the looks of a physical, grind of a football game, the Sugar Bowl has all the makings of a fun, high-scoring affair between two programs looking to prove themselves on one of the sport's biggest stages.

The transfer portal has become somewhat of a boogeyman in the world of modern college football, but it's always a great story to see a situation where it worked out to perfection, as is the case with Penix and Washington. After several injury-plagued seasons at Indiana, Penix connected with his old play-caller Kalen DeBoer, now the head man at UW, and has put together a pair of record-setting seasons. That includes a 2023 campaign in which he has eclipsed 4,000 yards and 36 total touchdowns, while helping Washington to a perfect 13-0. It's not just the fact this Washington offense puts up gaudy stats, it's a genuinely fun team to watch every time they take the field. Penix has unlimited arm strength, and is flanked by arguably the nation's top receiver corps, including Rome Odunze, Ja'Lynn Polk, Jalen McMillan, and Germie Bernard. DeBoer and coordinator Ryan Grubb are masterminds at finding a way to get their playmakers open, and Penix has showed up each and every week. Then there's the unsung heroes of the offense, the O-Line and tailback Dillon Johnson, who provide just enough balance to keep defenses honest. Johnson quietly surpassed the 1,000-yard mark on the year and has been instrumental in Washington's success down the stretch, while the Husky offensive line won the Joe Moore Award as the nation's best. All in all, it's quite the challenge for a Texas defense that has been significantly improved all year, but still is prone to occasional lapses. Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski did come from Washington and may have a few tricks up his sleeve, but what DeBoer and staff have been running is far different from what Kwiatkowski saw under Chris Petersen just a few years ago. The Huskies are going to attack down the field and if this Longhorn defense isn't ready, this one could quickly devolve into a shootout.

Even with several important injuries, the Texas offense keeps on rolling, coming off a Big 12 Championship Game in which they dropped 49 points. Quarterback Quinn Ewers missed several weeks but appears close to 100 percent and should be ready to go. He's still a bit streaky, but there are few quarterbacks in the nation as impressive as the redshirt sophomore when he's on his "A" game - simply go back and watch the tape from the Alabama win. Ewers has plenty of help as well, with Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell on the outside and tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders creating matchup problems underneath. With that being said, I am curious whether the Longhorns will be able to maintain the offensive balance that this has defined this unit in 2023 as they prepare for another game without Jonathon Brooks. Brooks was having a dominant year before a torn ACL in early November and although the Longhorns have managed well without him, these are the types of games where he would make all the difference. C.J. Baxter and Jaydon Blue have been impressive in relief, but it still feels like this unit isn't at complete full strength, which is a problem when you consider who they're facing the other way. With that being said, they should be able to still move the ball against a Washington defense that has been leaky at times this season, although they are coming off a strong showing in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The Huskies did a great job disrupting the rhythm of Bo Nix in that one, and they should be able to draw up something creative to do the same against Ewers.

I've been skeptical about both of these teams at different points throughout the season and yet here they are, playing for a chance at a National Championship Game berth. Washington in particular has left quite the impression on me - they've had off weeks and tough matchups, yet have answered the call at every point on the year. Instead of slowing down, they seem to be getting even stronger at the right time, and I think this is the opportunity to show out against a fantastic Texas team. I like them to move on, setting up a National Championship Game featuring two future Big Ten foes for all the marbles.

The Pick: Washington, 41 Texas, 31

NFL Mock Draft 2024: Edition 2 (End-of-Year Edition)

Caleb Williams, USC

 1. Chicago Bears (from Carolina)

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

The Bears have a chance to be the NFL's ultimate wild card this offseason, with ample money to throw around and two selections likely to land in the Top 5 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Justin Fields has played better since his return from injury, but it still feels like the organization will have a difficult time passing up the allure of Caleb Williams, who would give them the game-changer they've lacked at the position for years.

2. Arizona Cardinals

Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Are Kyler Murray and Arizona in for a divorce this offseason? Neither this Arizona front office or head coach Jonathan Gannon were part of the group that originally drafted Murray, or signed him to a hefty extension, and they could be looking to start anew. But unless they find a creative way to manuaver out of his contract, it's likely they'll have to rock with him for at least one more season. So, why not give him a special talent to work with, like Marvin Harrison Jr.? The former Buckeye could be the Larry Fitzgerald of a new era in the desert.

3. New England Patriots

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

More and more, 2023 has the feeling of Bill Belichick's final run in New England, and it just feels right for the Patriots to begin a new direction by drafting a difference-maker under center. Drake Maye would be the clear top quarterback off the board in just about every other draft class, but offers tremendous value for the Pats down here at third overall.

4. Washington Commanders

Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

Is Sam Howell really the guy in the nation's capital? The jury is most definitely still out, particularly as the Commanders fall to the cellar of the NFC East, but it wouldn't shock me if Howell is the taking Day One snaps in 2024. Assuming that is the case, it makes sense for Washington to complement him by adding a stalwart at tackle in the form of Olu Fashanu, who will be reminding fans of Trent Williams in short order.

5. Chicago Bears

Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Chicago hopes that Caleb Williams is the answer to their quarterback woes, but this second first-rounder is all about surrounding him with the right supporting cast. Receiver would be an obvious solution but with MHJ gone, it's hard to find a pass-catcher that wouldn't be a stretch at five. Instead, they stay in the Midwest and land a rapidly improving blocker in Joe Alt, who has been a contributor for the Irish since the moment he stepped on campus.

6. Los Angeles Chargers

Laiatu Latu, DE/LB, UCLA

The Chargers are going to be in for massive changes over the offseason, with ample changes throughout the coaching staff and front office. That makes mocking this selection particularly difficult, but it feels like adding a disruptive pass rusher never goes out of style. Laiatu Latu, who put together monster numbers over his UCLA career, has the skillset and scheme versatility to make an immediate impact on a needy defense.

7. New York Giants

Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Tommy DeVito's magical run seemed to come to its inevitable conclusion on Christmas night, and the G-Men could very well be drafting in the Top 5 come next spring. Quarterback remains a real possibility, but my belief is that they'll trot out Daniel Jones for one more year, while adding a flashy piece on the perimeter to bolster the offense. Enter Malik Nabers, who finished as a Biletnikoff Award finalist after a dominant 2023 with LSU.

8. New York Jets

Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

It's been a rough season for the Jets, but the hope is that an Aaron Rodgers' return will flip the narrative in New York. Adding another pass-catcher could be just as important, especially one as talented as Brock Bowers, who has put together three superb seasons in Athens. If not for an injury that cost him a big chunk of the year, I don't think it's a stretch at all to say that Bowers would have earned serious Heisman consideration this fall.

9. Tennessee Titans

Kool Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

There are several needs the Titans will look to address this offseason as they build around Will Levis for the foreseeable future. Both lines could use some reinforcements and it feels like Tennessee could always use another wide out, but I'm circling the defensive backfield if I'm the Titans. Quarterback play in the AFC South keeps on improving, and adding a shutdown corner like Kool Aid McKinstry feels like a necessity.

10. Atlanta Falcons

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

After a record-setting season with LSU, it's going to be fascinating to watch how NFL folks evaluate Jayden Daniels. Before this year, it never felt like he was much of a pro-ready quarterback, but now appears like he could rise into the Top 5. Atlanta is certainly in need of a quarterback and this feels like a nice spot to add a mature, well-rounded signal-caller.

11. New Orleans Saints

Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

New Orleans has attempted to keep their championship window open by leaning on an aerial attack featuring Derek Carr and an underwhelming cast of characters, but the results have been less-than-stellar. It's time the organization invests in the pass offense and adds a talent like Keon Coleman, who has been a bit inconsistent throughout his collegiate career, but absolutely dominant when he's "on."

12. Green Bay Packers

J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama

Predicting which direction Green Bay goes in with this front office often feels like you're throwing darts at the wall, but there's an obvious need along the offensive line here and a prospect that slides in perfectly in J.C. Latham. The 6'6", 360-pounder is a freak of nature and Green Bay could arrange for a homecoming of sorts, as Latham hailing from Oak Creek, Wisconsin originally.

13. Las Vegas Raiders

Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Cornerback has been circled as an obvious need position for the Raiders, and something tells me they will be investing in the position early on this offseason. Clemson's Nate Wiggins may not have the ceiling of Kool-Aid McKinstry, but he's a lengthy, well-rounded corner with a proven pedigree, making him well worth this selection.

14. Denver Broncos

Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

It feels like we could we see a shuffling of Denver's receiver room this offseason, regardless of how they finish the regular season. Jerry Jeudy feels like he's gone and despite his production, Courtland Sutton could also be a casualty of the times as this team builds for the future. The Broncos would be just fine taking a dynamic weapon like Rome Odunze as a replacement, a deep threat they've been missing all season.

15. Minnesota Vikings

Jer'Zhan Newton, DL, Illinois

Another team that has some decisions to make this offseason, as Minnesota evaluates their quarterback situation. Fortunately, the rest of the roster is still built to compete and by plugging holes, this team could certainly be in the hunt in the NFC. Adding a disruptive force like Jer'Zhan Newton, who has unstoppable while at Illinois, feels like a no-brainer at this spot for the front office.

16. Cincinnati Bengals

Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

With Tee Higgins potentially set to walk in free agency and a clear need at tight end, we should be watching pass-catcher in the first round for the Bengals. Yet, with all the big names off the board at this point, Cincinnati goes in a different direction by upgrading along the O-Line. Taliese Fuaga, a behemoth out of Oregon State, is the type of prospect that should climb steadily up boards throughout the pre-Draft process.

17. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston)

Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

The Cardinals added the flashy new offensive piece with their earlier first-rounder - this selection is all about addressing their top need, cornerback. Certainly they would love if Kool-Aid McKinstry were to drop deeper into the first, but his defensive backfield mate Terrion Arnold, is a fine consolation. Arnold can be inconsistent, but has all the physical gifts necessary to be a plus defender in the pros.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers

Dallas Turner, DE/LB, Alabama

Dallas Turner is likely to land much higher than this but based on the way things turn out, anybody can slide come draft night. Expect the Steelers to jump on this opportunity if it were to happen, adding a relentless pass rusher off the edge who can complement T.J. Watt for the long haul.

19. Indianapolis Colts

Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State

The Colts have been a pleasant surprise, even with Anthony Richardson sidelined most of the year, but if they want to be serious threats in the AFC they need to shore up the defense. All three levels could use reinforcements and although corner seems to be a more pressing need, I love the idea of Indy adding a ferocious pass rusher like Chop Robinson out of Penn State.

20. Los Angeles Rams

Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

It's been an up-and-down year in LA, but the Rams appear to still have a championship window open if they can fix a few of the holes that have persisted throughout this fall. That includes a secondary that has taken a notable step-back, and would benefit from adding a weapon like Iowa's Cooper DeJean. DeJean is the type of playmaker at the position you don't get every day, a ball hawk who can also make things happen on special teams.

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

Tampa has been a pleasant surprise under the leadership of Baker Mayfield, but you still have to be monitoring quarterback with their first-rounder this year. Both Michael Penix and Bo Nix should get a look here, and both could end up going higher than anticipated, but it feels like the Buccaneers may be content going best player available and waiting to find the right fit for their next franchise signal-caller.

22. Jacksonville Jaguars

Patrick Paul, OT, Houston

There are obvious holes on both lines of scrimmage for Jacksonville, with the defense underperforming at crucial points during the year and shaky protection in front of Trevor Lawrence. The defense will need work, but I suspect adding a young blocker will be at the top of the priority list, and the Jags get nice value here with Patrick Paul in the early 20s.

23. Seattle Seahawks

Bralen Trice, DE, Washington

Seattle's pass rush has been lifeless most of the season, and the organization needs to invest draft capital if they hope to flip the script in 2024. Fortunately, they may not have to go very far to do so, as they can stay in the city and snag Bralen Trice out of Washington. The polished end has been a force for the undefeated Huskies all season, and has the measurables that translate very well to the pro game.

24. Buffalo Bills

Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Regardless of how the season finishes in Buffalo, the Bills have things to figure out offensively, most notably at receiver. Gabe Davis has been a steady No. 2 but is set to hit free agency and will likely be looking for a pay day, meaning Buffalo could soon be looking for new blood alongside Stefon Diggs. Emeka Egbuka makes plenty of sense if that is indeed the case - although he played second fiddle to Harrison Jr. at Ohio State, the former Buckeye is a special talent.

25. Kansas City Chiefs

Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Patrick Mahomes may be the most talented quarterback in the NFL, but it's become clear this year that he can't do it all alone. The Chiefs have not done a great job surrounding him with the right pieces at receiver, resulting in a staggering amount of drops that have fed an underlying sense of frustration around the team throughout the fall. Adonai Mitchell is an instant impact receiver who seemed to get better each and every week for Texas in 2023 after coming over from Georgia.

26. Dallas Cowboys

Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Don't be surprised if Graham Barton begins steadily climbing up draft boards as the pre-Draft process ramps up. The Duke product is a well-rounded, versatile blocker who is the type of prospect that could have a coming out party at the Senior Bowl in early February. For right now, he slides in comfortably to Dallas at 26, a team that should use further help along the O-Line.

27. Houston Texans (from Cleveland)

J.T. Tuimoloau, DL, Ohio State

With their third first-rounder, this feels like the perfect spot for Houston to snatch up a disruptive pass rusher, especially considering there's usually one or two that slide into the late first. In this case it's J.T. Tuimoloau, a physical freak who has quite the range he could end up going - anywhere from the mid-first round to late second feels in play at the moment.

28. Detroit Lions

Leonard Taylor, DL, Miami (FL)

Aidan Hutchinson may be a talented young pass rusher, but he's faced constant double teams all season long. It's clear Detroit needs to further bolster their defensive line this offseason, and Leonard Taylor could do just that. He's going to play on the inside in the pros, but can still get after the quarterback, and he feels like one of those prospects that projects better to the NFL than his college production suggests.

29. Miami Dolphins

Amarius Mims, OL, Georgia

The injury bug has struck in Miami but amazingly, Tua Tagovailoa has managed to stay healthy throughout the fall. Instead, it's been the O-Line that has been hit hard, exposing the lack of depth throughout the unit. The Dolphins can change that by taking a piece like Amarius Mims this next spring, a powerful blocker who can fill in at multiple spots.

30. Philadelphia Eagles

Kalen King, CB, Penn State

Cornerback was already considered a need for Philadelphia heading into 2023, and the events of the last month have made it clear that the Eagles need to invest in the position this upcoming offseason. Fortunately, this is a really solid corner draft, even if there isn't an elite No. 1, and they have a chance for a real value play here in Kalen King.

31. Baltimore Ravens

Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

You can always count on Baltimore to find value wherever they're drafting, and Kamari Lassiter would be quite the get at the 31 spot. The former Georgia Bulldog has been overshadowed at times by all the NFL talent on that side of the ball, but he's a sturdy, refined cornerback who still has a high enough ceiling to imagine another leap in the pros.

32. San Francisco 49ers

Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

It's often said that just about any quarterback could run Kyle Shanahan's scheme, but San Francisco shouldn't be too eager to find out - they need to keep Brock Purdy healthy. Fortunately there are plenty of options to do so in the late first round, with Arizona's Jordan Morgan jumping out as a high upside guy with room to grow.

Transfer Portal 2023-24: Ranking the Top 10 Quarterbacks (So Far)

Cam Ward, Washington State

December has become the most crucial month on the college football calendar, not only because of the action on the field, but all the movement away from it. The transfer portal has been churning at a dizzying rate this offseason, with more players looking to move on than ever before - all of which will have a major impact on the National Title race next season, and beyond. Some big names have decided, plenty haven't, and more are likely to enter, but as we stand today these are the Top 10 signal-callers switching schools this winter.

1. Dillon Gabriel

From: Oklahoma --> Oregon

There may be quarterbacks in the portal with more natural arm talent than Dillon Gabriel, or prettier touch with the football. But, there is not another signal-caller on the move this offseason who can come close to Gabriel's college production - through five seasons at both UCF and Oklahoma, he has totaled nearly 16,000 yards of total offense, 151 total touchdowns, and 49 starts. Assuming he can stay healthy this next fall, he's on pace to smash the record of career starts by a quarterback, which is now held by Bo Nix at 61. It just so happens Gabriel will be the one replacing Nix under center, as he travels northwest to Eugene to take over the Duck offense after a pair of stellar seasons with Oklahoma. It's an understandable match - the Ducks want a veteran QB to lead them into a new era of Big Ten football, while Gabriel is looking for a fresh start, with Jackson Arnold the new face of the program at OU. It will be an adjustment as Gabriel moves from the Sooner offense led by now Mississippi State head man Jeff Lebby to the unit currently run by Oregon's Will Stein, but he'll have no shortage of skill position talent around him, on a team with College Football Playoff aspirations. As long as Gabriel can stay healthy, it feels like we're in store for a grand finale from the longtime quarterback in 2024.

2. Riley Leonard

From: Duke --> Notre Dame

For the second straight offseason, Marcus Freeman and Notre Dame raided the ACC to snag an accomplished quarterback to run the show in South Bend. After a solid year from Sam Hartman, they're hoping for even more from Duke's Riley Leonard, who was putting together a special season before an unfortunate injury suffered against ... Notre Dame. Leonard should be back at full strength by the time things kick off in 2024, and he'll give this Irish offense something they've lacked for years - an explosive, dual-threat under center. Leonard ran for 1,224 yards in his Duke career, despite limited action in both 2021 and 2023, and proved that he was a threat to take it to the house every time he dropped back to throw. As a passer, he still has room to grow, and will be working with an Irish receiver corps that is going to completely flip over the offseason, but the tools are there for him to have a major impact in 2024. 

3. Cam Ward

From: Washington State --> TBD

There are few players in college football as entertaining as Cam Ward, who is looking for a new home after an impressive two-year run with Washington State. Ward has dazzling athletic gifts and a fearless mentality, creating plenty of highlight reel plays, as well as plenty of head-scratching moments. You never can be quite sure what you're getting from Ward play-to-play, drive-by-drive, or week-to-week - he is the type of ultimate wild card that makes this sport so engrossing. It's no surprise that he has plenty of suitors, fresh off a 2023 in which he finished with 3,735 passing yards and 33 total touchdowns, but it's unclear which uniform he will be repping in 2024. Ohio State seems to be on the inside track as things stand in mid-December, but it still feels like there could be some fireworks yet to come from Cam Ward this offseason. As with his play on the field, it's best to just sit back and enjoy the ride. 

4. Dante Moore

From: UCLA --> TBD

Contrary to the first three names on the list, who are accomplished college quarterbacks, Dante Moore's rank is all about his potential. The former five-star prospect was a huge get for Chip Kelly and UCLA, and the young quarterback saw a healthy dosage of action in Year One. But, the results were mixed - Moore would finish with 1,610 yards, an 11-9 TD-INT ratio, and a completion percentage of 54% on a Bruins team that slipped to 7-5 on the year. It's not surprising that a freshman quarterback had growing pains, but it also felt that the marriage between Moore and Kelly was always an awkward fit. In turn, it's no surprise that he has since entered the portal and likely has countless suitors lining up for his services. Even with his ups-and-downs, you still saw many of the tools that made Moore such an enticing quarterback prospect. He has a huge arm, moves incredibly well, and has the type of improvisation ability that you simply can't teach at this level. Whoever gets him is landing a talented youngster who has the best of both worlds:  experience, but also two years of eligibility remaining. Moore was previously committed to Oregon coming out of high school and while it doesn't feel like he will end up transferring there, it wouldn't be a shock to see him stay on the West Coast.

5. Will Howard

From: Kansas State --> TBD

After four seasons at Kansas State, Will Howard is officially on the market and looking for his next destination. Howard had a productive career with the Wildcats, breaking through last season in relief duty for the injured Adrian Martinez and finishing with 15 touchdowns. He built on that with a fine campaign this fall, in which he tossed for 2,643 yards and 24 touchdowns, even though K-State was unable to repeat as Big 12 Champs. But with the wise of talented youngster Avery Johnson, Howard saw the writing on the wall and looks to be a one-year rental for a contender come 2024. He's not necessarily a flashy quarterback, but it's not easy to find steady, experienced options like him to fill out a roster. In fact, I think a transfer may actually bring Howard's skill-set even more. It always felt like the Kansas State offense was a bit too ground-and-pound and conservative for him to truly shine. With USC and Miami being two schools rumored to be in the hunt for Howard, his next offensive scheme could look vastly different.

6. Tyler Van Dyke

From: Miami (FL) --> Wisconsin

Tyler Van Dyke was one of the best quarterbacks anywhere in college football in 2021 but after a pair of disappointing seasons in Coral Gables, he'll head north to take over the reigns of the offense in Madison. It's an interesting fit; Van Dyke clearly needed a change of scenery and Wisconsin's hiring of OC Phil Longo prior to 2023 seems to indicate a willingness to open up this offense. Yet, I remain skeptical that Luke Fickell is eager to move away from a style of football that has not only defined the Badgers for decades, but been his preferred play style throughout his coaching tenure. Yet, it feels worth the risk for both sides, as Van Dyke gets a fresh start at a program that desperately needed a quarterback, while Wisconsin gets a boom-or-bust option who could go either direction in 2024.

7. Will Rogers

From: Mississippi State --> TBD

Mike Leach's unfortunate and untimely passing was not only a turning point for Mississippi State football, but a massive change for the guy under center. Will Rogers had put up gaudy stats playing in Leach's Air Raid scheme, but the offense felt lifeless this season en route to a frustrating 5-7 campaign. Injuries played a role, but it was still startling to see Rogers, who had thrown the ball over 600 times each of the last two seasons, attempt just 237 passes in 2023. It's no surprise that he has since decided to move on and play his final year of college ball elsewhere, and plenty remain interested in a proven commodity with multiple years of SEC experience. Washington appears on the inside track as things stand today, as they look for a potential replacement for Michael Penix, but nothing is 100 percent certain at this point in the process. Rogers, who is originally from Mississippi, may have a tough time leaving the SEC, and South in general, behind.

8. Aidan Chiles

From: Oregon State --> Michigan State

It's no surprise that one of Jonathan Smith's first priorities when he got to Michigan State was bringing his highly touted young quarterback with him, and Aidan Chiles officially announced he would be coming along earlier in the week. Chiles may not have the experience of others on this list, as he threw just 35 passes during his lone season in Corvallis, but his physical gifts pop out at you. He's 6'3", 200 pounds with a wiry arm and the ability to make defenders miss with his legs. He seems like an obvious pick for a potential breakout 2024 campaign, although identifying new weapons for him in the passing game will be a chief goal for the Spartan staff over the offseason. It's likely they're going to raid the portal and try to patch something up for Smith's first team in East Lansing.

9. Maalik Murphy

From: Texas --> TBD

With Quinn Ewers potentially coming back for one more season and Arch Manning the guy of the future in Austin, there just wasn't enough space for Maalik Murphy at Texas. However, the redshirt freshman has an opportunity to start at various other Power Five schools in the nation and he now has experience, after stepping in for Ewers for two games this fall. Whoever lands Murphy will be getting a quarterback with three years of eligibility remaining, a guy who is a bit rough around the edges, but has all the tools necessary to be a star at this level. The Longhorn coaching staff clearly thought highly of Murphy and considering Steve Sarkisian's way with quarterbacks, that's quite the endorsement for the talented signal-caller.

10. Kyle McCord

From: Ohio State --> TBD

Kyle McCord's decision to hit the transfer portal was one of the more surprising moves of this year's transfer portal cycle, as he was coming off a season in which he threw for 3,170 yards and 24 touchdowns. Yet, it has become clear that Ohio State was looking for a new face to run the show, and McCord became somewhat of a casualty of the times in the new era of college football. But, the thing is, I think it's going to end up being a positive for his career. The pressure cooker in Columbus is wild, and the fans seemed to have turned on the young quarterback. The Buckeyes have been spoiled with quarterback play over the last decade-plus and McCord had a topsy-turvy lone season as starter, but he was a highly accomplished quarterback prospect who got a chance to learn from some of the best coaches in the sport over the last several seasons. It feels like he's going to kill it wherever he goes, which is now an open mystery after rumors that he was "moving on" with his transfer decision following a visit to Nebraska over the last week.

Just Missed

Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina --> NC State: Grayson McCall had a legendary run with Coastal Carolina, but his style of play seemed a bit at odds with head coach Tim Beck after a down 2023. He's now making the jump to the Power Five level at NC State, which is a fascinating fit. He's completely different than the past quarterbacks OC Robert Anae has coached, but this could be one of those pairings that works out much better than expected.

D.J. Uiagalelei, Oregon State --> TBD: At this point, the ship has sailed on D.J. Uiagalelei every living up to his five-star billing coming out of high school. But, he has proven he can be a rock-solid, steady leader under center at multiple spots, and I think he was much better than people realize at Oregon State this past fall. There was some thought he may stay inside the state and join his brother at Oregon but with Dillon Gabriel in town, it's likely elsewhere on the West Coast for the older Uiagalelei.

Max Brosmer, New Hampshire --> Minnesota: After leading all FCS passers with 3,459 yards, Max Brosmer will make the jump all the way to the Power Five level at Minnesota. It's a risk for P.J. Fleck and company, but feels like a necessary one after a frustrating 5-7 season that featured a lifeless passing offense. Brosmer will have the advantage of having Minnesota's top target back in action, as Daniel Jackson looks to cement himself as one of the best in the Big Ten in 2024.

Brock Vandagriff, Georgia --> Kentucky: It's been an interesting ride for Brock Vandagriff, who hopes that he's found his home at Kentucky after spending the last several seasons at Georgia. Vandagriff was once pledged to Lincoln Riley and Oklahoma before de-committing (and the Sooners responded by landing some guy named Caleb Williams) and ending up in Athens. He was buried below Stetson Bennett on the depth chart and couldn't beat out Carson Beck prior to the season. With Beck putting up huge numbers, Vandagriff's future in Athens appeared bleak, so his move to Kentucky didn't come as a major shock. He certainly has talent, but it's been a mixed bag for Mark Stoops in taking quarterback transfers during his run in Lexington.

M.J. Morris, NC State --> Maryland: There are few quarterbacks in this year's portal class with the boom-or-bust potential of M.J. Morris. Morris is a former blue-chip prospect who impressed in 2022 when he filled in for the injured Devin Leary, as he threw for 648 yards and finished with a 7-1 TD-INT ratio. The encore wasn't quite what NC State was hoping for - he was beat out by Brennan Armstrong out of camp and when he did play, the results weren't quite as impressive. Even so, Maryland needs a quarterback with Taulia Tagovailoa exhausting his eligibility, and Morris has shown enough to potentially be just what they need in the expanded Big Ten next fall.

Big Ten Power Rankings 2023-24: Edition 1

Zach Edey, Purdue

1. Purdue Boilermakers (8-1 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

Purdue may have opened up league play with a surprising loss at the hands of Northwestern, but the Boilermakers have already built a resume that has them on the inside track towards a No. 1 seed come Selection Sunday. Wins over Gonzaga, Tennessee, and Marquette demonstrate that Purdue will not only hang among the nation's elite, but that they can defeat opponents with a wide range of play styles. In fact, the Northwestern defeat could actually end up being a positive for the program, providing them the wakeup call they need to overcome a precarious slate before the meat of the Big Ten schedule arrives. That slate includes the nation's new No. 1, Arizona, who will come to Indianapolis to square off against Purdue in the 2023 Indy Classic.

2. Illinois Fighting Illini (7-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

An 18-point victory on the road was a resounding statement from an Illinois team that has serious Big Ten Title aspirations, but even more impressive? The Fighting Illini's encore, when they crushed No. 11 Florida Atlantic in the Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden, 98-89. It feels like both games are indicative of the type of product the Illini will put on the court in 2023-24 - they're going to score plenty of points, but it will be up to their defense to determine their ceiling this winter. If the Rutgers game was any indication, things are looking bright in Champaign - they only forced 10 Scarlet Knight turnovers, but held them to 33% shooting and 58 points.

3. Wisconsin Badgers (7-2 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

Two losses in their first three games seemed to indicate the same old offensive woes would plague Wisconsin once again this season, but they've quickly turned things around and have been one of the hottest teams in the country over the last month. Beating in-state rival Marquette and then going on the road and handling Michigan State was quite the statement from Greg Gard's club, and the good news? They've done so with sophomore sharpshooter Connor Essegian playing far below 100 percent as he nurses a back injury he sustained in the Tennessee loss. After playing just seven minutes total in the Marquette and MSU wins, the Badgers will be eager to get the youngster back at full strength, as they need him when they travel to Tucson to face Arizona this upcoming weekend.

4. Northwestern Wildcats (6-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

Chris Collins worked his way off the hot seat with an impressive 2022-23 campaign that saw the Wildcats finish tied for second in the league, and it's looking like he's preparing for a grand encore. After a quiet non-conference, the Wildcats opened up Big Ten action with a bang, shocking top-ranked Purdue in Evanston, 92-88. Northwestern did so even with Zach Edey still scoring 35 points, as Boo Buie responded with 31 points of his own, and the Wildcats gained a significant edge in the turnover battle, with just three compared to Purdue's 17. But, in order to prove that they can seriously challenge for league supremacy, Northwestern will have to do more than just pull out one huge victory, and the rest of the non-conference schedule isn't exactly loaded with heavyweights. But, perhaps that should provide this team further momentum before they jump back into Big Ten play with a road tilt against Illinois in early January.

5. Indiana Hoosiers (7-1 overall, 2-0 Big Ten)

Thanks to victories over Maryland and Michigan, it is the Indiana Hoosiers who currently sit atop the Big Ten standings at 2-0. Yet, there's still plenty of work to be done, and the Hoosiers still have plenty to prove in the month of December before league play resumes. But, I will say, this team has a really interesting feel to it, a real throwback in the context of modern college basketball. They're going to lean heavily on their post game, with Kel'el Ware and Malik Reneau as their top two scorers, while true freshman sensation Mackenzie Mgbako continues to acclimate himself to the collegiate game. Mike Woodson has an intriguing situation here, but whether that means the Hoosiers are ready to seriously challenge in the Big Ten remains to be seen.

6. Ohio State Buckeyes (8-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

The disaster that was the 2022-23 campaign for Ohio State always felt like more of a one-off than the beginning of a trend for Chris Holtmann, and the program has responded in a big way so far this winter. They are 8-1 to begin the year and their lone defeat came at the hands of a quality Texas A&M team, albeit at home. A road tilt with Penn State gives them the opportunity to move to 2-0 early on in the Big Ten season, and they'll get a chance for two additional resume-boosting wins in the month of December with UCLA and West Virginia.

7. Michigan State Spartans (4-4 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

There's no denying that Michigan State has been a massive disappointment up to this point in the year, but more and more this is starting to feel like a typical Tom Izzo season. The Spartans have struggled in the non-conference and lost their Big Ten opener to Wisconsin, but it hasn't been uncommon for the program to take lumps early on before they find their groove over the season's final months. And, the reality is that this team is still extremely talented - Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard remain an imposing 1-2 punch in the backcourt, a healthy Malik Hall is a true difference-maker, and the youngsters are going to put it all together eventually. Michigan State may be situated down here at seven at the moment, but it feels like only a matter of time before they quickly ascend these rankings.

8. Maryland Terrapins (5-4 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

A pair of close, surprising losses to Davidson and UAB seemed to knock Maryland down the Big Ten pecking order, but the Terrapins have responded nicely over the last several weeks. They've taken care of business against the teams they should beat and after losing to Indiana to open up the conference schedule, they won a thriller over Penn State earlier in the week. The offense is clearly still working out some kinks beyond Jahmir Young, but this remains a deep and talented team, and it wouldn't be surprising if they're able to turn things around and get back on track towards making the NCAA Tournament. Plenty of resume-boosting opportunities abound, even if the rest of the non-conference slate remains awfully soft.

9. Iowa Hawkeyes (5-4 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Iowa will square off with Michigan over the weekend in a game that will tell us quite a bit about both teams, particularly after underwhelming starts to the 2023-24 campaign. The Hawkeyes have had a rough go of things in the non-conference, fresh off a 25-point loss to their Cy-Hawk rival Iowa State, and lost by 19 on the road to Purdue to open up Big Ten play. We know the Hawkeyes can still score, as they're averaging nearly 88 points per game, but it's a buttery soft defense that has created the 5-4 start. In fact, opponents have scored at least 87 points in three of Iowa's four losses up to this point in the year.

10. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (5-3 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Rutgers has celebrated some major wins on the recruiting trail recently, but the product on the court has been less than impressive. An 18-point loss to Illinois at home is at least somewhat understandable considering how hot the Illini have been, but losses to Princeton and Wake Forest seem to indicate this could be a rebuilding campaign in Piscataway. The offense has struggled mightily, and someone needs to emerge if this team has any chance of climbing their way out of the bottom of the Big Ten rankings.

11. Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-3 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

In just two league games, Minnesota has nearly matched last year's conference win total (two), as they completed an impressive comeback against Nebraska earlier in the week. This team still has notable deficencies, but Dawson Garcia's growth into an All-Big Ten talent gives them a bonafide top scorer, and the depth on the roster has improved significantly. If the young guys, notably Braeden Carrington and Pharrel Payne, continue to grow, this Gopher team could be feisty and potentially open the door for something special in 2024-25.

12. Michigan Wolverines (4-5 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Juwan Howard's seat was at least warming prior to the 2023-24 campaign, and a rough start has turned up the temperature in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines have lost three straight entering the weekend, and have quite the stain on their postseason resume with a home defeat to Long Beach State. Perhaps they could turn things around - Howard has done it before - but it just feels like the roster is missing the necessary pieces to do so. Dug McDaniel and Olivier Nkamhoua have carried the offense so far, and it's hard to see if anyone else is going to emerge and turn the tide for the Wolverines.

13. Penn State Nittany Lions (4-5 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

It wouldn't be surprising if Mike Rhoades' first team in Happy Valley suffers through an up-and-down campaign, although the Nittany Lions nearly went into College Park and pulled out a win against Maryland this week. Kanye Clary and Ace Baldwin Jr., who followed Rhoades from VCU, give this backcourt plenty of punch, but it's the development of the frontcourt that looks to be the X-factor on the season. Qudus Wahab is back in the Big Ten, but the Nittany Lions will need others to step up if they want to survive a league brimming with elite post talent.

14. Nebraska Cornhuskers (7-2 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Nebraska's 7-2 record looks a bit more impressive at face value than it actually is, considering they've beat up on a soft non-conference schedule before a pair of losses over the last week. The loss to Creighton at home doesn't feel like a big deal, but the 'Huskers had a chance to close out Minnesota on the road earlier in the week and squandered it. Clearly, Fred Hoiberg's team is still figuring things out, but this team could be dangerous if things come together, making this last-place ranking obsolete. At the very least, guard Keisei Tominaga, who has earned the nickname, "Japanese Steph Curry" gives fans reason to tune in each and every night.