After Week 1 games, Matt Eifert reorders the Big Ten based on on-field results. Ohio State sits at No. 1; Michigan drops out of the top 10 after an uneven offensive performance. The rest of the conference shows a mix of expected winners and early questions.
Michigan’s offense struggled and is no longer inside the top 10 in these rankings.
Several teams posted impressive defensive shutouts (Iowa, USC, Penn State) or strong offensive openings (Indiana, Nebraska).
Oregon wins a close test over Boise State but was lowered because the team looked vulnerable at times.
# Summary
# The top of the board
Indiana occupies No. 2 after a 52-16 win over North Texas. The offense looked potent, while the defense showed some vulnerability—an unexpected split relative to preseason expectations.
# Notable performances and concerns Penn State (No. 4) dominated Marshall 45-0 in Matt Campbell's debut, with Rocco Becht throwing four touchdowns and the Nittany Lions outgaining Marshall 487-147.
USC (No. 5) posted a 39-0 shutout of Fresno State. Jayden Maiava and the Trojan defense were highlighted as particularly strong in that game.
Iowa (No. 6) delivered a 40-0 shutout of Northern Illinois. The Hawkeyes split quarterback reps early, an item to monitor as the season continues.
Minnesota (No. 7) routed Eastern Illinois 59-7. Offensive production looked strong, though the strength of the opponent tempers the result.
Washington (No. 8) handled rival Washington State 24-10 in a nonconference matchup. Demond Williams led the team in both passing and rushing in the opener.
Nebraska (No. 9) beat Ohio 49-21. Anthony Colandrea exceeded expectations in his Nebraska debut with 275 passing yards, three passing touchdowns and one rushing score. Defensive struggles against Ohio were noted as a concern.
Illinois (No. 10) defeated UAB 42-23 despite being outgained by 81 yards. Katin Houser's efficient performance earned him praise and left the Illini with a promising season opener.
# Teams outside the top 10
Michigan's offense was described as out of sync, sloppy, and unorganized after Week 1, which is why the Wolverines dropped below the top 10. The author recommended major changes will be needed for Michigan to climb back up.
# What to watch next
# Bottom line Week 1 provided clear winners and clear questions. Ohio State and several other teams validated preseason expectations, while Michigan's poor offensive showing and a handful of closer-than-expected games produced early volatility in the Big Ten power rankings.
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