Ohio State, Oregon to largely decide 2026 Big Ten race, per Joel Klatt

The Big Ten Conference has dominated college football in recent years, producing the last three national champions: Indiana Hoosiers, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Michigan Wolverines. Heading into the 2026 season, the conference remains a powerhouse, with Ohio State, Indiana, and Oregon Ducks featuring prominently among the top-six teams favored to win the national title according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

Key games this season include a crucial matchup between Ohio State and Indiana on October 17, a rematch of the 2025 Big Ten title game, which is expected to significantly impact College Football Playoff standings. Ohio State will also face Oregon at home, a matchup that renews their competitive history from 2024. The Buckeyes are involved in another high-stakes game against the Michigan Wolverines, continuing their storied rivalry under new coaching leadership. Oregon's visit to USC represents a pivotal contest for conference supremacy in the west, and a matchup between Penn State and Michigan features two new head coaches,