Big 10 Preview thread 2023 (AKA: Where coaching drama lives!)

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

So here I am with another CFB preview thread, this time about the Big 10. We should have a fun time discussing these teams!

What to know about the Northwestern football hazing scandal

Longtime coach Pat Fitzgerald is out — but how did the university get here and what’s next?

www.wbez.org

That is, of course, if rough stuff like this doesn't dominate the talk on here.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Northwestern

The first preview segment for the Big 10 conference: The Northwestern Wildcats

Last season: So the bottom has fallen out of the Northwestern football program after a terrible 1-11 campaign. Usually, I would talk about how "Pat Fitzgerald has a proud track record at Evanston, so I want to see how he is gonna fix this mess".
But then the hazing scandal hit, and Pat Fitzgerald was let go by the school, so there goes that plotline. Instead, people are thinking "What will Northwestern do as a whole to fix the mess they're in?".

Good news: QB Brendan Sullivan and RB Cam Porter are back from injuries, and the defense has a new coordinator and a strong back-7.

Bad news: The defensive tackle spot is a gaping hole right now with only 2 guys on scholarship over there. The offense is missing their top 3 receivers from a year ago, and is replacing 4 dudes on the O-line. And of course, this whole "hazing scandal" may linger throughout the whole year.

Key games:
9/2 @ Rutgers (This will be the first game in the post-Pat Fitzgerald era, and it's good news/bad news time for the Wildcats. The bad news is, it's being held near a media capital in New York City. The good news is, this game looks winnable.)
9/30 vs. Penn State (An improved offense could help the Wildcats not get totally stomped on by Penn State here.)
11/4 vs. Iowa [from Chicago] (A battle of terrible offenses inside Solider Field in Chicago? Hmm... this game may have an old-school feel to it.)
11/18 vs. Purdue (Before facing rival Illinois, the Wildcats will hope to have a good Senior Day against the rebuilding Boilermakers.)

Bottom line: By the way, that new defensive coordinator? His name is David Braun, and he'll be the interim head coach for this season. As for the football program he's now leading, it looks like Northwestern is doomed to finish last in the Big 10 West. But I do wish Mr. Braun well.
As for the university and their hazing scandal? I sure hope they've learned their lesson.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Illinois

Preview segment: The Illinois Fighting Illini

Last season: For everyone who watched the Big 10 West in 2022, I apologize. It was one giant mess. And one of the culprits were Bret Bielema and the resurgent Illini, who got off to their best start to a season since 2011... and their first national ranking since 2011. And when Illinois DID lose, it was usually by a TD or less.
So now in 2023, Illini fans are cautiously optimistic about their chances in the Big 10.

Bad news: There are some BIG areas of concern; 4 starters from a top-notch secondary has left for the NFL. Also, QB Tommy Devito and RB Chase Brown are both gone.

Good news: But the front of the Illini defense remains intact, as 4 All-Big Ten players are still on the D-line. The O-line should still be OK, and their 3 top WR's (and tight-end Tip Reiman) are also still in Champaign.

2023 X-factor: New QB Luke Altmyer- Luke is set to be the starting QB for Illinois this season after transferring in from Ole Miss. If he works out, maybe Illinois can get off of the transfer QB carousel (since Luke is just a sophomore).

Key games:
9/9 @ Kansas (Casual fans will probably look at this game and ignore it. But for Illinois fans, they'll be watching the game to see how their new secondary handles Jalon Daniels and a solid Kansas offense.)
9/16 vs. Penn State (The Illini has a BIG conference opener on tap against the Nittany Lions. And if their defense stands tall, an upset might happen.)
9/30 @ Purdue (Purdue clipped the Illini last year 31-24, and they went on to make the Big 10 title game. Can Illinois return the favor in 2023?)
10/21 vs. Wisconsin (People began to take Illinois seriously last year when they defeated the Badgers at Camp Randell.)
11/18 @ Iowa (9-6. Illinois defeated Iowa last year in a lacrosse game disguised as a football game last year.)

Bottom line: A 8-5 record, wins against Wisconsin and Iowa, and they almost crushed Michigan's playoff push. What a great year Illinois had in 2022! Now it's time for Illinois to juggle expectations for the first time in QUITE a while. Can Bret Bielema and his squad stand tall?
That might depend on how Illinois handles the passing game... both operating it and defending against it.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Iowa

Preview segment: The Iowa Hawkeyes

Last season: On the surface, it looked like another successful season for Iowa in 2022. They defeated rivals like Minnesota and Wisconsin. And they upset Kentucky in their bowl game. But the thing is, they had a chance to repeat as Big 10 West champions... and they threw it away.
How, you ask? Easy. That f---ing offense was the reason. "College Gameday" and local papers called Iowa football "Iwa" to mock their lack of offensive prowess. I mean, it ranked 129th overall! WTF?

2023 X-factor: Offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz- And what's THIS? The coordinator that led Iowa to those pathetic offensive numbers is still here?! Wowwwwww...
To be fair to Iowa's athletic director, he has given Brian some strict orders: Either get the offense to average 25 points a game, or get the f--- out. Expect scoreboard watchers all across the Midwest to camp out in Iowa City this year.

Bad news: Needless to say, the offense will be a lightning-rod of attention all season long. And I don't know if Iowa has the WR's to help it out.

Good news: Happily, they did find someone who CAN help out: Former Michigan QB Cade McNamara! And Cade can always use the good tight-ends that Iowa has. Now, did I forget something? Oh yeah! Iowa's defense! The Hawkeye defense looks f---ing amazing, with a deep D-line and a strong secondary raring to go.

Key games:
9/9 @ Iowa State (You know what? If the score doesn't end up being 10-7, I think Iowa can get revenge on the Cyclones.)
9/23 @ Penn State (Just a simple challenge match for both teams. Can new Penn State QB Drew Aller break the tough Iowa defense?)
10/14 @ Wisconsin (On to serious business. Iowa defeated the Badgers last year, but Wisconsin is staving for revenge thanks to their new head coach. The Iowa offense have BETTER be ready.)
10/21 vs. Minnesota (8 wins in a row over Minnesota for the Hawkeyes. They can keep that great streak going... right?)
11/24 @ Nebraska (Last year, it was the Cornhuskers of Nebraska that ruined Iowa's run back to Indianapolis.)

Bottom line: I think I complained about Iowa's offense 6 times during this preview. But it really will be the thing that'll either make or break Iowa's run to the Big 10 title game in 2023. Here's hoping Cade McNamara can help save the day over in Iowa City.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Maryland

Preview segment: The Maryland Terrapans

Last season: As coach Mike Locksley was doused with a bunch of mayonnaise by his players, he took pride in the fact that Maryland had finished back-to-back successful seasons... something that had become a rarity in College Park, Maryland. That's because Maryland had just defeated former ACC rival NC State for a 8-5 record, as Taulia Tagovailoa continued to be awesome.
So what's next for the Terps? Can they FINALLY compete for a Big 10 title shot in 2023?

Good news: Well, Taulia is staying around for one more year, so Maryland definitely has a chance. The D-line may be short on experience but high on talent, and RB Roman Hemby became a stud last season.

Bad news: The O-line is also replacing a few key pieces, and it must come together quickly for Taulia and Roman to run wild again. Another problem area is the secondary; it got burned way too many times last season, so it must get better.

Key games:
9/15 vs. Virginia (Maryland should be able to handle this old rival from the ACC, but pay attention to the O-line. This will be the first real test it'll get in 2023.)
10/7 @ Ohio State (Maryland's all-time record against the Buckeyes is now 0-8. The Terps defense has to have the game of their lives here.)
10/14 vs. Illinois (A tricky turn-around spot for the Terps, going from playing the Buckeyes to hosting a rejuvenated Illinois squad.)
11/4 vs. Penn State (Much like the Ohio State game, Maryland will be aiming for an upset here to jump into Big 10 contention.)
11/18 vs. Michigan (Michigan needs to be careful here! One, they almost lost to the Terps in Ann Arbor last year. Two, they play the Terps before Ohio State. And three, this will be Taulia Tagovailoa's last home game in College Park.)

Bottom line: ...Nah. I just don't see Maryland contending for the Big 10 East division in 2023; Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State are just too big. But if both the offensive and defensive lines jell quickly, who knows? The Terrapans could shock one of those big behemoths and finish with a year-end national ranking. It could happen!

 

[Wamu]

fuck meeeechigan!!!

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Michigan State

Preview segment: The Michigan State Spartans

Last season: ...Sorry, I just find it kinda funny. After one stellar season in 2021, Michigan State signs coach Mel Tucker to a 10-year, $90 million contract extension. And the next year they go 5-7.
Okay, okay, okay. In all seriousness, Michigan State fans and alumni are hoping that the team can get back up after faceplanting in 2022.

Good news: The Spartans' front-7 on defense should still be great, and there is depth at running-back. And the O-line returns everyone from last year, so maybe it won't disappoint people like it has done the last few years.

Bad news: Forcing more turnovers will be a focal point for the MSU defense this year, but the big worries are on offense. Yep, the Spartans got TOTALLY boned in the transfer portal, as WR Keon Coleman and QB Payton Thorne both left in the winter.

Key games:
9/16 vs. Washington (The defense should be able to slow down the Huskies' powerful offense here. But unless Michigan State has a good starting QB to battle with Michael Penix Jr., they'll be no hope for an upset.)
9/23 vs. Maryland (Huh. 4 straight home games to start the season for the Spartans. Maybe that'll help them get revenge against the upstart Terripans.)
10/21 vs. Michigan (Look. We all saw what happened between these two teams after last year's game.)
11/11 @ Ohio State (At the very least, Michigan State will look to not get blown out against the Buckeyes... like the last 6 times they've met.)
11/25 vs. Penn State (Hmmm... Could the Spartans ruin Penn State's glorious dreams in this game?)

Bottom line: Don't expect Michigan State to be a real serious contender in the Big 10 East this year. But for Spartans fans, that's not the point of the 2023 season. For them, the point of 2023 is to see how Mel Tucker will rebound from last year and build towards the future.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Ohio State

Preview segment: The Ohio State Buckeyes

Last season: Here is a list of accomplishments that Ohio State did in 2022. They had an elite QB in C.J. Stroud, who went #2 overall in the NFL Draft. They ran over elite teams in their conference. They were able to get into the playoff! And they were one field goal away from slaying the mighty Georgia Bulldogs (and getting the chance to crush TCU in the national title game in the progress)! Most "Power 5" programs would KILL to have that kind of year.
However, Ohio State is one of those teams that are never happy unless they win it all. Oh, and getting pushed around by Michigan didn't help matters either.

Bad news: With C.J. Stroud gone, it's time to break in a new QB. And Kyle McCord looks like a rock-solid QB, but can he lead the offense? Some new offensive tackles have to emerge, and the defense has to get back to playing like a CFP contender.

Good news: Luckily for Ohio State, their defense still has top-level talent and Jim Knowles is now more comfortable with the schemes in Columbus. Besides, look at all the weapons that the new QB has at his disposal! An amazing WR like Marvin Harrison Jr., tight-end Cade Stover (the best TE that OSU has had in a decade). A terrifying collection of running-backs, and I can go on and on.

Key games:
9/23 @ Notre Dame (Honestly, I'm expecting NBC to move this game to a prime-time slot. If they don't, it'll be a missed opportunity.)
10/21 vs. Penn State (Hmmm... Penn State will come into this game with tons of motivation, plus they are super high on their new QB Drew Allar. Will Ohio State's luck against Penn State finally run out?)
10/28 @ Wisconsin (Same situation as the above game; Ohio State has the winning streak, but Wisconsin will be determined to break it.)
11/18 vs. Minnesota (Much like Michigan with Maryland, Ohio State has to be careful against a capable Minnesota team who will challenge them before Rivalry Week.)
11/25 @ Michigan (And speaking of Michigan, whiny Buckeye fans will go nuts if Jim Harbaugh takes them out for the 3rd year in a row.)

Bottom line: Look. Ohio State is fine, guys! They're still amazing, and they'll be in another "New Year's Six" game easy. However, all they want right now is to crush Michigan and aim for a rematch against Georgia in the playoff. Will they do it?
Well, coach Ryan Day, good luck! For the Buckeye faithful will be on your @$$ all season long to get the job done.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Nebraska

Preview segment: The Nebraska Cornhuskers

Last season: Just know that the Nebraska faithful finally got tired of Scott Frost and all of his broken promises. And that after a 4-8 mark in 2022, they went and hired Matt Rhule to reconstruct everything.

2023 X-factor: New head coach Matt Rhule- And I think I know why Nebraska hired Rhule. They see him as a modern-day Lou Holtz; a guy who has a reputation of properly building up CFB programs. Lou built up teams like Arkansas, Notre Dame, and South Carolina. Rhule has built up teams like Temple and Baylor before he went to the Carolina Panthers and failed.
And on that note, did you guys know that Lou Holtz once coached the New York Jets in the NFL and failed? If Rhule rebounds here, he really WILL be a modern-day Holtz!

Good news: Rhule wants to bring Nebraska back to powerful, run-first football. And it should go OK this year, what with an experienced O-line and new running QB Jeff Sims (from Georgia Tech) here in Lincoln. The secondary looks to be the best place on the entire squad.

Bad news: QB depth behind Sims is a little iffy, so Jeff has to be careful. And the defensive front might take a year or two to properly jell.

Key games:
8/31 @ Minnesota (Oof. The first game for Nebraska under their new head coach will be in Minneapolis, against a healthy Gophers program. Well, at least we'll get some great theater over here.)
9/9 @ Colorado (So the Huskers are going to visit an old rival from their days in the Big 12. No big deal. Wait... This will be Deion Sanders' first home game as Colorado coach? Uh... good luck, Nebraska!)
10/6 @ Illinois (I could've brought up Nebraska's home game against Michigan the previous week. But in reality, the Huskers should focus on doing better against the foes in their own division.)
10/28 vs. Purdue (Same principle here; Nebraska should use this game as a springboard in the Big 10 West division.)
11/24 vs. Iowa (About the only big thing Nebraska did in 2022 was cost Iowa the West division title in Iowa City. If the Huskers pull the upset again here, this rivalry game should be back.)

Bottom line: When the Huskers hired Scott Frost in 2018, they thought "Yes! He's gonna get us some hot recruits, we'll blow the Big 10 out of the water in recruiting, and we'll rocket our way back into the big time!". Now with Matt Rhule, they're thinking "OK, new idea. Let's get this guy, and let him properly develop the players so that we can fight our way back up.". In 2023, the fans are just looking for signs of a new, tougher team... and maybe their first bowl invite in 7 years.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Indiana

Preview segment: The Indiana Hoosiers

Last season: Things started out okay for Indiana in 2022 with a 3-0 start. Sadly though, Indiana couldn't keep up the pace and they finished 4-8. Now Kevin Wilson is under a lot of pressure to get the Hoosiers back in the right direction.

Bad news: There is a whole lot of newness on this squad, as only 6 starters from last year are back. You may see that squeeze mostly in the defense, as the secondary are missing some big-time playmakers. Oh, and the starting QB situation is STILL not resolved.

Good news: RB Jaylin Lucas is somebody to watch, as he has the talent to make explosive plays. The defensive line should be able to survive in the Big 10, all thanks to some high-level transfers coming in.

Key games:
9/2 vs. Ohio State (Dealing with Ohio State right out of the box? That's nothing new for the Hoosiers, but sheesh! Will their new secondary be ready for this?)
9/16 vs. Louisville [from Indianapolis] (Just a simple neutral-site game for both teams to test themselves.)
10/21 vs. Rutgers (When the Hoosiers lost to Rutgers last year, any chance for a successful season went out the window.)
11/18 vs. Michigan State (On the positive side, Indiana did take the "Old Brass Spittoon" from Michigan State last year [and killed MSU's bowl chances in the process].)
11/25 @ Purdue (These rivals will be meeting for the 125th time this season.)

Bottom line: Those 2019 and 2020 seasons are growing fainter and fainter for Indiana, and that trend may continue if all of the newcomers on the team can't mesh together. Indiana will be hard pressed to escape the Big 10 East basement in 2023.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Penn State

Preview segment: The Penn State Nittany Lions

Last season: To the casual CFB fan, 2022 was a brilliant year for James Franklin and his Nittany Lions. They finished 11-2. They won their 2nd Rose Bowl in program history. And the two teams that defeated them went on to make the playoff! Sounds great, doesn't it?
But deep down inside, Nittany Lions fans are anxious. That's because the two teams that beat them were Ohio State and Michigan... those same tormentors that has buried them in their own division. In 2023, they'll be beyond motivated to beat either one of them.

Good news: So nobody is mourning the departure of Sean Clifford in State College; this kid named Drew Allar looks like he's ready to lead the ship. The O-line was finally rock-solid in 2022, and most of it returns for this season. And there are no big worries on defense; watch for the linemen to be REALLY nasty.

Bad news: That said, the defense could have trouble replacing people like Joey Porter Jr. and Ji'Ayir Brown. But bigger problems are lying dormant; the WR position is being overhauled, and the kicking game will be all-new.

Key games:
9/2 vs. West Virginia (Did you know that these 2 schools were border rivals from 1947 to 1992? This will be Drew Allar's first test as the new starting QB for Penn State.)
9/16 @ Illinois (Now for Drew Allar's first MAJOR test, he'll go to face a Illinois team that now has momentum on their side.)
10/21 @ Ohio State (Well, there's one of those "tormentors" I mentioned. Can Penn State's defense shut down Ohio State THIS time?)
11/4 @ Maryland (Now, THIS game will be tricky. Penn State has to go visit a determined, hungry rival in College Park...)
11/11 vs. Michigan (...before their latest showdown with the Wolverines.)

Bottom line: On paper, Penn State is looking really dangerous again... especially if the new QB lives up to his billing. If he does that and the coaching staff fixes the other problems, they look to be a lock for another "New Year's Six" bowl.
But everyone in Happy Valley knows one thing: They won't get a sniff at the playoff if they don't stop either Michigan or Ohio State dead in their tracks.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Rutgers

Preview segment: The Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Last season: You know, Rutgers were kinda like Indiana during the 2022 season; they start out 3-0, get a little excited, and then WHAM! They can't keep up the pace, and they finish 4-8. Now Greg Schiano is entering a very important year in his 2nd tenure at Rutgers.

Good news: Rutgers returns 8 starters from a defense that was pretty good last year; watch for DE Aaron Lewis to get some NFL buzz. The running-back rotation looks good as well, with Samuel Brown V the one to watch. Also, QB Gavin Wimsatt already looks more confident than he did last season.

Bad news: That being said, the passing game and the O-line will be a question mark until proven otherwise. And Rutgers will be one of the rare teams that'll miss their punter, as Adam Korsak is gone.

Key games:
9/3 vs. Northwestern (...Wait a second here. The Big 10 will be having a conference game on a Sunday? On CBS?! What is this world coming to?)
9/16 @ Virginia Tech (This game looks tough, but it is winnable. Don't forget, Rutgers did win at Boston College last year.)
10/21 @ Indiana (In the madness of the Big 10 East, this game actually is winnable for the Scarlet Knights.)
11/25 vs. Maryland (In this season-ending encounter with Maryland, Rutgers will look to do better than the 37-0 blowout they suffered last year.)

Bottom line: As I said earlier, this is a big year for the Scarlet Knights. They actually have the raw talent to make a bowl game, but let's just say that their schedule is REALLY hard. I mean, they have to visit places like State College, Iowa City, Blacksburg, Ann Arbor, and Madison.
...Sorry, Greg Schiano. Something tells me your team is not gonna survive, and you'll be sitting at home come bowl time.

 

[jwolt92]

Nebraska

Preview segment: The Nebraska Cornhuskers

Last season: Just know that the Nebraska faithful finally got tired of Scott Frost and all of his broken promises. And that after a 4-8 mark in 2022, they went and hired Matt Rhule to reconstruct everything.

2023 X-factor: New head coach Matt Rhule- And I think I know why Nebraska hired Rhule. They see him as a modern-day Lou Holtz; a guy who has a reputation of properly building up CFB programs. Lou built up teams like Arkansas, Notre Dame, and South Carolina. Rhule has built up teams like Temple and Baylor before he went to the Carolina Panthers and failed.
And on that note, did you guys know that Lou Holtz once coached the New York Jets in the NFL and failed? If Rhule rebounds here, he really WILL be a modern-day Holtz!

Good news: Rhule wants to bring Nebraska back to powerful, run-first football. And it should go OK this year, what with an experienced O-line and new running QB Jeff Sims (from Georgia Tech) here in Lincoln. The secondary looks to be the best place on the entire squad.

Bad news: QB depth behind Sims is a little iffy, so Jeff has to be careful. And the defensive front might take a year or two to properly jell.

Key games:
8/31 @ Minnesota (Oof. The first game for Nebraska under their new head coach will be in Minneapolis, against a healthy Gophers program. Well, at least we'll get some great theater over here.)
9/9 @ Colorado (So the Huskers are going to visit an old rival from their days in the Big 12. No big deal. Wait... This will be Deion Sanders' first home game as Colorado coach? Uh... good luck, Nebraska!)
10/6 @ Illinois (I could've brought up Nebraska's home game against Michigan the previous week. But in reality, the Huskers should focus on doing better against the foes in their own division.)
10/28 vs. Purdue (Same principle here; Nebraska should use this game as a springboard in the Big 10 West division.)
11/24 vs. Iowa (About the only big thing Nebraska did in 2022 was cost Iowa the West division title in Iowa City. If the Huskers pull the upset again here, this rivalry game should be back.)

Bottom line: When the Huskers hired Scott Frost in 2018, they thought "Yes! He's gonna get us some hot recruits, we'll blow the Big 10 out of the water in recruiting, and we'll rocket our way back into the big time!". Now with Matt Rhule, they're thinking "OK, new idea. Let's get this guy, and let him properly develop the players so that we can fight our way back up.". In 2023, the fans are just looking for signs of a new, tougher team... and maybe their first bowl invite in 7 years.

Nebraska's path back to success:

1. Close off practice to media members because...
2. Bring back the Wing T and just run it down Minnesota's throat Week 1 and now nobody can game plan for you because who knows what offense you'll bring out every week
3. Jeff Sims can't throw, but he's a helluva runner

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Purdue

Preview segment: The Purdue Boilermakers

Last season: Well, at least Purdue accomplished their goals for the 2022 season. They wanted to compete for the Big 10 title, and they did win the West division. They wanted to play their bowl in a sunny location, and they did. But then, coach Jeff Brohm left to go back to his alma-mater of Louisville, and that was that as Purdue finished 8-6. Now what will the Boilermakers do?

2023 X-factor: New head coach Ryan Walters- Filling in for Brohm will be former Illinois defensive coordinator Ryan Walters. He has been described as a rising star in the coaching ranks, but is he ready to be the head man? I guess we'll have to see.

Good news: New offensive coordinator Graham Harrell wants to have an "air-raid" offense, and he's got the QB (transfer Hudson Card) needed to get it going. The middle of the defense looks strong, and RB Devin Mockobee is set to be Purdue's first 1,000-yard rusher since 2008.

Bad news: Parts of the secondary are being completely overhauled, the O-line is lacking in depth, and Charlie Jones will be missed at the WR position.

Key games:
9/16 vs. Syracuse (Purdue's non-conference slate is a tough one; they'll take on Fresno State and Virginia Tech before this big revenge game against the Orange.)
9/30 vs. Illinois (...Wait a minute. Ryan Walters will be facing his old squad in this rivalry game, won't he?)
10/14 vs. Ohio State (On one hand, the Buckeyes should be cruising along in this game. But on the other hand, OSU has never really done well at Ross-Ade Stadium.)
11/4 @ Michigan ( Man, the Boilermakers are REALLY gonna have a rough schedule in 2023, won't they?)
11/25 vs. Indiana (Purdue has won 4 of the last 5 meetings with the rival Hoosiers.)

Bottom line: With a lot of newness around West Lafayette, getting back to a bowl game in 2023 will be a big challenge... especially when they have the toughest schedule out of anyone in the Big 10. Good luck, Hudson Card and company.

 

[batchaps4me]

Thanks again for putting the work into making the best and most anticipated threads of the summer.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Michigan

Preview segment: The Michigan Wolverines

Last season: Jim Harbaugh REALLY has the Wolverines cooking now! Last year they grabbed their 2nd straight Big 10 title, and mushed Ohio State in Columbus to do so. Pity about the Fiesta Bowl, though. But things are still great in Ann Arbor.
Why? Because Jim has said "The NFL is calling me again? ...No. No, not yet. I want one more re-do in that football playoff." So here we go again!

Good news: There's a lot to love here. QB J.J. McCarthy is still here and still a superstar, the defense is loaded with monsters (like CB Will Johnson), and RB Blake Corum also wants one more chance at the playoff. The wide-receivers have potential...

Bad news: ...but that position was a bit streaky last year; finding a go-to receiver will be key. It also wouldn't hurt to find another strong cornerback to accommodate Will Johnson.

Key games:
9/30 @ Nebraska (Once again, Michigan will have a pretty easy start to the season. This game in Lincoln should be their first major test.)
10/7 @ Minnesota (Hey, Michigan! I heard that Minnesota has a new QB named Athan Kaliakmanis, and he looks pretty strong. Just remember that during this big rivalry game.)
10/21 @ Michigan State (Again, we all know what happened last year between these two.)
11/11 @ Penn State (For the last 2 years, Penn State has come into the Michigan game with a lot of confidence... only to have Jim Harbaugh take them out. Will that scenario happen again?)
11/25 vs. Ohio State (Here's a fun fact for you: Did you know that Michigan hasn't won 3 straight game against the Buckeyes since the mid-1990's? If Michigan continues to be physical, that might happen here.)

Bottom line: Jim Harbaugh is "all-in" for Michigan in 2023. So will the players, as they seek their 3rd-straight appearance in the playoff. And my mother will also be "all-in" for this season.
The only question left is, will I join her in being "all-in" for them in 2023? Stay tuned...

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Minnesota

Preview segment: The Minnesota Golden Gophers

Last season: These are bullish times to be a Golden Gophers fan. Minnesota was able to secure 9 wins (including their bowl game in NYC) and kept "Paul Bunyan's Ax" away from the Badgers. Such a shame that they couldn't take the Big 10 West division, though. Oh well, P.J. Fleck and crew should be able to make another run at it.

Bad news: However, only 9 starters are back from last year's team. The cornerback spot got gutted in the transfer portal, and the pass-rush may still be lacking despite an entire spring dedicated to fixing the problem.

Good news: The Gophers offense should be more balanced this year, with some good WR's and a proud tight-end (Brevyn Spann-Ford) available to new strong-armed QB Athan Kaliakmania. LB Cody Lindenburg and safety Tyler Nubin should lift up the rebuilding defense.

Key games:
8/31 vs. Nebraska (Well, we'll see right away if the new Minnesota offense can run well against a conference foe.)
10/7 vs. Michigan (Just like Michigan will be mindful of Kaliakmania, the Gophers must have a plan to stop J.J. McCarthy.)
10/21 @ Iowa (The Hawkeyes are still the mental hurdle Minnesota has to clear in order to win the Big 10 West. At least the Gophers will have a week off to prep for this installment.)
11/11 @ Purdue (Minnesota started 2022 with a 4-0 start before Purdue took them out. This will be a simple "revenge game" for the Gophers.)
11/25 vs. Wisconsin (This one, though, will be all business. Minnesota hasn't beaten Wisconsin 3 straight times since the mid-80's.)

Bottom line: The Gophers also has to go to North Carolina and Ohio State, so they'll be up against it for the 2023 season... especially when they're replacing half of last year's roster. But this is a P.J. Fleck-coached team, for pete's sake! Don't be surprised if Minnesota is in the middle of the Big 10 West fight this year.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Wisconsin

The last preview segment for the Big 10: The Wisconsin Badgers

Last season: To this day, I'm still shocked over how Wisconsin fired their former head coach Paul Chryst. So maybe the Badgers offense wasn't what the fans expected, and they went 6-6 in the regular season. But Chryst has had a great run as their coach! Couldn't they have given him another year so that he can hire someone to fix the offense? Or if you ARE going to fire him, couldn't these guys have waited until the end of the season to do it? Man, oh man, was that a shocker.
But good luck making those complaints now; Wisconsin got the biggest fish from last year's hiring pool Luke Fickell. And they want him to get Wisconsin back on track right now.

2023 X-factor: Wisconsin's new offense- One of the things that Fickell promised right away in Madison was a more-exciting offense. So he's brought along Phil Longo as his new offensive coordinator, and Phil wants to put in a up-tempo attack. AND, he has former SMU quarterback Tanner Mordecai to show Madison how it works.
Thing is, I don't think the Badgers have used something like this in their entire history. Will it be able to work in Year 1?

Bad news: The learning curve on offense could be steepest on the O-line, as pass protection will be a big question mark.

Good news: Despite only returning 5 starters, there are no big worries on defense; watch for the secondary to give Big 10 schools headaches. And Luke will be an idiot if he forgets about the proud tailback duo of Chez Mellusi and Braelon Allen while running the offense.

Key games:
9/9 @ Washington State (This is Luke Fickell's 1st big test as Wisconsin coach. Mainly because this is a "revenge game" for the Badgers, but also because he wants to see how good this new offense will be.)
10/14 vs. Iowa (Iowa managed to outmuscle Wisconsin last year in the "Battle for the Heartland Trophy".)
10/21 @ Illinois (Another "revenge game" for the Badgers. Illinois buried Wisconsin in the Big 10 West last year, plus Paul Chryst was let go after the loss in Madison.)
10/28 vs. Ohio State (And here's another chance for Wisconsin to try to silence the Buckeyes. If Camp Randall Stadium is gonna return to being a difficult place to play, this has to be the day.)
11/25 @ Minnesota (See my previous post.)

Bottom line: If you wanna complain about Wisconsin's firing of Chryst, you've just missed your chance. That's because the fanbase in Madison is "all-in" on their new head coach and the new offense they have been promised. But if Fickell is smart, he'll remember what made Wisconsin football great in the first place: Great runners and great defense.
If he remembers that, Wisconsin could be on their way to their first Big 10 West title in 4 years.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Big 10 Predictions

So I'm done over in the Big 10, and tomorrow I dive right into the powder-keg that is the Southeastern Conference. But until then, here are my picks for this league in 2023:

East division:
1. Michigan (Conference champs, maybe playoff)
2. Ohio State ("New Year's Six" bowl, maybe playoff)
3. Penn State (Maybe "New Year's Six")
4. Maryland
5. Michigan State
6. Rutgers
7. Indiana

West division:
1. Iowa
2. Wisconsin
3. Illinois
4. Minnesota
5. Nebraska
6. Purdue
7. Northwestern

 

[Xeliou66]

Here is my Big 10 Preview, with a brief overview of each team, in no particular order -

Ohio St - The Buckeyes return most of their talent from a team that made the playoff last year, if new QB Kyle McCord can put up strong numbers, and I think he will, the Buckeyes will be playoff contenders once again. They are loaded with offensive talent, all of their receivers and RBs are back, they have two 1,000 yard receivers returning and three rushers who had over 500 yards last year, and most of their defense returns as well, their LB unit looks especially strong. Ohio St should definitely have another double digit win season and is a playoff contender, the big question is is can they beat Michigan?

Penn St - The Nittany Lions have a lot of talent returning - Sean Clifford’s long reign as their starting QB is over, but I expect Drew Allar to have a strong season and be a solid QB. They have a good backfield with two stellar RBs returning, and while they lose their top 2 receivers they add in a couple of transfers and still have a solid unit there. The O-Line looks very strong and the defense is probably the best in the Big 10 - the secondary looks to be outstanding once again, their top 4 LB’s are back and their D-Line looks good as well. Penn St has a very good team, however whether they can they upset Michigan/Ohio St and get in the playoff remains to be seen.

Rutgers - The Scarlet Knights look to be in the midst of a rebuild right now - they should improve - the QB play should be better after a horrible 2022 where they averaged 154 passing yards a game and threw for more INT’s than TD’s. All of their RBs return, so I expect improved numbers in both the passing and rushing games. Most of their defense returns and it should be better as well. However the schedule isn’t easy as they have to go to Wisconsin, Iowa, Penn St and Michigan, that’s brutal. They will have to pull a couple of upsets in order to get to a bowl, and in order to do that their QB play has to improve greatly.

Maryland - The Terrapins have had 2 winning seasons in a row after several losing seasons and this year they should have their best team under Mike Locksley. Taulia Tagovailoa is kind of an underrated QB IMO, he’s coming off back to back 3,000 yard passing seasons and should have another strong year this year. All of their RBs are back and they have several experienced receivers. The main concern with Maryland is the inexperience at O-Line and D-Line, they will need new guys to emerge to make an impact at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. The LBs and secondary should be good. The schedule is favorable as they avoid the best teams in the West and their 3 out of conference games are fairly easy. The Terps should have their best team in a while this year, they aren’t a top tier team but they are capable of topping last years 8 wins and pulling off an upset.

Michigan St - The Spartans fell off the map last year after winning 11 games in 2021, finishing with a losing record. They will have an uphill battle getting to a bowl this season, as their QB play is a complete unknown with virtually no experience at that position and their top receivers are gone as well. The RB unit looks about the same in terms of experience, I expect more productivity from the rushing game but less from the passing game. The defense looks average. Really the whole team looks kind of average and given their tough schedule it will be a difficult task to get to a bowl game.

Michigan - The Wolverines have made the playoffs the last 2 seasons, and they are loaded with talent once again. JJ McCarthy returns at QB and should put up good numbers again. The outstanding RB duo of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards is back, making this arguably the strongest RB unit in college football. Their is good experience at receiver as well, and I expect the passing game to open up more this year with so much focus on the rushing attack. The defense should be strong with their top 5 tacklers returning. Michigan is once again a playoff contending team - will they beat Ohio St again, and is this the year they get over the hump and win a playoff game and maybe the national title?

Purdue - The Boilermakers look to be in a rebuilding year in the first year of Ryan Walters tenure - most of their team has departed, including their QB, top 2 receivers and most of their defense. They do add in Texas transfer QB Hudson Card, but I don’t see this team coming close to last year’s 8 wins and given their extremely difficult schedule plus a new coach plus a lot of new players, and I don’t see the Boilers having a winning year.

Indiana - The Hoosiers have an extremely inexperienced team, almost their entire defense is gone and a lot of their offense is as well. No idea who will emerge at QB for them. This looks like a long year for Indiana, given that they have the least experienced team in the Big 10 I expect them to have a losing season again and Tom Allen will be on the hot seat.

Northwestern - What a mess this program is in, with the hazing scandal and Fitzgerald being fired, plus the fact that they only won 1 game last year. Almost all of their offense is gone, the defense looks slightly better, but it’s clear that things are a disaster in Evanston right now and it wouldn’t shock me at all to see the Wildcats lose double digits once again. Given the awful results last year, the lack of talent, and the chaos the program is in, this is probably the worst Power 5 team.

Illinois - The Illini had their first winning season since 2011 last season, it’s pretty clear Bret Bielema has the program going in the right direction. They look weaker this year with the loss of their QB, star RB and several key defensive players. They do add in transfer QB Luke Altmyer from Ole Miss who should have a solid season. So while I think they are down a few notches, Illinois still has a good chance at a winning season and a bowl.

Wisconsin - I think the Badgers are flying under the radar going into the season due to their disappointing 2022 season, they should have a much improved team in Luke Fickell’s first year in Madison. Adding in SMU transfer Tanner Mordecai at QB is a huge addition and should result in much better passing numbers, and they have a strong backfield as always, Braelon Allen is a two time 1,000 yard rusher. The receiving unit is deep and should be more productive. The defense has most of its starters back, the front 7 looks particularly strong. The Badgers are my pick to win the Big 10 West, and I think they have a decent shot at double digit wins and a New Years Six bowl.

Iowa - The Hawkeyes are a consistently solid program. Their offense was weak last season, it should be improved this year, they add in QB Cade McNamara who led Michigan to the playoff 2 years ago, he should provide much improved QB play after a season in which the Hawkeyes had just 7 passing TDs. Their top 2 rushers return as well, and the offense should be more productive. Iowa’s defense is always strong and should be solid once again. This should be another good winning season for the Hawkeyes, and they have a shot at winning the Big Ten West.

Minnesota - PJ Fleck has turned the Gophers into a solid program, they should be pretty good once again. They have a good amount of offensive talent and QB Athan Kaliakmanis should have a solid season, and they benefit from adding in some transfers, with a 1,000 RB transferring in from Western Michigan and a couple of solid receivers coming in. The defense should be good once again as it usually is. The Gophers should have another good season and are a contender to win the Big 10 West.

Nebraska - I’m not really sure what to expect out of the Huskers, Scott Frost was an epic bust, and now Matt Rhule comes in to try to rebuild the program. They lose their QB and most of their receivers but add in some transfers and should have an improved O-Line and rushing attack. The defense looks average. I don’t expect much out of Nebraska as this is clearly a rebuilding year, but Rhule has exceeded expectations before and they could get to a bowl.

I would rank the Big 10 East as

Ohio St
Michigan
Penn St
Maryland
Rutgers
Michigan St
Indiana

Big 10 West

Wisconsin
Minnesota
Iowa
Illinois
Nebraska
Purdue
Northwestern

I am predicting Ohio St to win the Big 10 and get back in the playoff.