In this exciting episode of The Big Ten Huddle, host JR and guest Zach Guggenheim break down their predictions for the 2025 Big Ten football season, offering a game-by-game analysis for every team in the conference. Recorded post-media days, the duo shares their insights on team records, key matchups, and potential playoff contenders, while also engaging in lively debates over differing predictions. From Ohio State’s elite roster to surprising upset picks like Illinois over Indiana, this episode is packed with hot takes and thoughtful commentary. The hosts also address fan questions from the chat and discuss why certain fanbases, like Michigan, might not be thrilled with their predictions.

Topics Discussed

JR’s Big Ten Predictions: JR shares his detailed standings, predicting Ohio State at 11-1 (8-1 in conference), Penn State at 11-1, Illinois at 10-2, Michigan at 9-3, and others down to Purdue at 2-10. Key points include Ohio State’s tough road games and Michigan’s potential upset over Ohio State.

Zach’s Big Ten Predictions: Zach counters with his predictions, placing Penn State at the top with one loss to Ohio State, a five-way tie for second including Illinois, Oregon, USC, Ohio State, and Nebraska, all at 10-2 or 9-3. He highlights Illinois upsetting Ohio State and Nebraska’s favorable schedule.

Debate on Key Teams: JR and Zach debate their differing predictions, particularly on Illinois vs. Indiana, Michigan’s outlook, and Nebraska’s surprising placement. They discuss fan reactions and potential backlash from fanbases like Michigan, UCLA, and Maryland.

Ohio State vs. Texas Analysis: A deep dive into the Ohio State-Texas matchup, with JR and Zach arguing why Ohio State has the edge due to home-field advantage, defensive line strength, and Texas’ inexperienced offensive line and quarterback Arch Manning. They challenge media narratives favoring Texas.

Closing Thoughts and Fan Interaction: The hosts wrap up with a lighthearted acknowledgment that their predictions won’t be perfect, encourage fan feedback, and share excitement for the upcoming season, just 30 days away. They also address a fan question about Lee Corso’s potential Ohio State pick.

Useful Timestamps

Additional Notes

Fans are encouraged to join the live chat during future episodes to share their thoughts and questions.

The hosts reference media personalities like Doug LaMaurice and Bill Landis, praising their independent analysis while challenging their Texas-favored predictions.

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AUDIO ONLY PLATFORMS

The Big Ten Huddle is a podcast dedicated to providing honest, humorous, and insightful analysis of Big Ten football and basketball. With a focus on challenging the national bias, especially against the SEC, hosts JR and Zack offer unfiltered discussions that engage fans of all Big Ten teams. Though critical at times, they always aim to defend the conference and give credit where it’s due, bringing humor and deep analysis together for a unique listening experience.

Rooted in values of integrity, passion, and community, The Big Ten Huddle strives to become the go-to voice for Big Ten sports fans.

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