Spring ball has wrapped up across the Big Ten, and the conference is flexing like never before. After a historic 11-5 postseason record—compared to the SEC's 4-10—the Big Ten is owning college football right now. But where does Indiana football stand in the pecking order as we look ahead to 2026?
You might be tempted to pick against the Hoosiers, but think twice. Indiana is coming off the first 16-0 season in modern history, earning their spot as defending national champions. With key newcomers like former TCU quarterback Josh Hoover and ex-Michigan State receiver Nick Marsh, the Hoosiers have reloaded rather than rebuilt.
Still, our spring rankings place Indiana third in the Big Ten, behind Ohio State and Oregon. All three programs are expected to open the year in the top five nationally, highlighting just how deep and powerful this conference has become. The Hoosiers remain one of the elite teams in the Bowl Subdivision, but the competition ahead is fierce.
Ohio State boasts the most loaded offense in the country, with the potential to be among the most potent in school history. This will be the last ride for superstar receiver Jeremiah Smith and likely third-year quarterback Julian Sayin, the preseason Heisman favorite. Oregon, meanwhile, has handed new defensive coordinator Chris Hampton a deep roster, led by an experienced defensive front and a secondary anchored by former Minnesota safety Koi Perich.
As for Indiana, head coach Curt Cignetti has done a remarkable job maintaining staff continuity despite the program's rapid rise. The only departure from last year's coaching staff was co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Chandler Whitmer, who left for the NFL. Stepping in is former UCLA assistant Tino Sunseri, who previously worked with Cignetti at James Madison (2021-23) and Indiana (2024). This stability could be a key factor as the Hoosiers aim to defend their title.
Don't sleep on USC either. This could be a breakout year for the Trojans and coach Lincoln Riley, with a roster that looks ready to make noise. The Big Ten is deeper and stronger than ever, and the race for the top is wide open.