We tackle the Big Ten with the first of our three-part conference preview and break all 18 teams into tiers, discuss the biggest storylines and use protein metaphors to capture just how overwhelming this massive conference has become. From Ohio State's run at another national championship to Penn State's lofty expectations and the intriguing battle for fourth place, we unpack what makes this conference both excellent and exhausting.

In this college football podcast episode, we debate our contender tier with Penn State, Ohio State, Oregon and... Michigan (?), analyze the fascinating second tier among six quality teams, wonder which "weird little stinkers" might surprise us. Plus, we examine why this might be the most difficult conference to rank from top to bottom.

We explore Ty's bold Nebraska optimism versus Dan's skepticism, debate whether USC can finally finish games in the fourth quarter, wonder if Iowa's Mark Gronowski will bring his FCS magic to Iowa City, and talk through what the transfer of Nico Iamaleava means for UCLA. Plus, is Illinois fool's gold? Can Indiana make another improbable playoff run? Should we start a support group for Minnesota football fans? Will Northwestern finally get something from a transfer quarterback? Can Rutgers make a bowl? How far can the combo of Aiden Chiles and Nick Marsh take Michigan State? And what will Purdue look like with 69 new players?!

Consider this your starter pack for navigating the beautiful bulk that is Big Ten football in 2025.

Timestamps:
0:00 - Opening Thoughts
11:31 - Sleepers
15:58 - The Contenders
27:30 - The Battle for Fourth
49:31 - Weird Little Stinkers
59:14 - Drive for Six
1:08:32 - The Bottom
1:13:17 - Big Ten Predictions

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