Dive into our bold breakdown of the top three breakout candidates poised to transform Illinois football in the 2025 season. From veteran QB Luke Altmyer’s clutch plays to wide receiver Hudson Clement’s dynamic route-running and the aggressive pass-rushing prowess of Gabe Jacas, we reveal the game-changers who could redefine the Big Ten. Expect a mix of humor, aggressive opinions, and teasing insights as we unpack each player’s potential impact on the field. Plus, don’t miss a special shoutout to...
Feb 15, 2025•16 min•Ep. 277
In this video, we break down the top 5 best and 5 most concerning Big Ten football coordinator hires for the 2025 season. We explore how these hires could shape the season for teams like Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State. From Chip Lindsey's offensive expertise at Michigan to the potentially risky hires like Pep Hamilton at Maryland, we provide in-depth analysis of what each coordinator brings to the table. This list isn’t ranked, but instead looks at the hires alphabetically by school, cover...
Feb 15, 2025•26 min•Ep. 276
Discover how five overlooked Big Ten transfers defied their low portal rankings to become game-changers on the court. In this video, we break down the key plays, stats, and moments that prove rankings don’t tell the whole story. From explosive scoring to clutch defense, these players are redefining what it means to overcome expectations. Whether you’re a college basketball enthusiast or love an inspiring underdog tale, this analysis is packed with insights and surprises. Tune in to see why these...
Feb 14, 2025•13 min•Ep. 275
In this video, we dive into the exciting news that Penn State is reportedly set to hire veteran running back coach Stan Drayton. We break down his impressive resume—from his championship-winning stints at Florida and Ohio State to his unique recruiting prowess—and explain why his addition is a game changer for the 2025 season. With returning stars like Nicholan Singleton and Kaytron Allen, the Nittany Lions’ backfield is poised for explosive growth. We also weigh the good and the not-so-good, ul...
Feb 14, 2025•12 min•Ep. 274
The 2025 Big Ten football season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing yet! From Penn State’s championship aspirations to the pressure on Lincoln Riley and Luke Fickell, we break down the biggest questions facing the conference. Which mid-tier teams are ready to challenge for a playoff spot? Can Illinois and Oregon take the next step? Plus, we analyze the impact of new coaching changes, the toughest schedules, and whether the Big Ten can finally surpass the SEC. Stay tuned for bold pred...
Feb 12, 2025•1 hr 36 min•Ep. 273
The 2026 recruiting battle is heating up, and Big Ten programs are making their moves! In this episode of Big Ten Huddle, we break down the top-ranked recruits, including No. 1 OT Jackson Cantwell and No. 2 OT Immanuel Iheanacho, and the Big Ten schools fighting for them. Michigan and Ohio State are leading the charge, but Penn State, Maryland, and others aren’t backing down. Will Maryland keep Zion Elee locked in? Can Oregon flip Ohio State commit Chris Henry Jr.? Find out how these high-stakes...
Feb 11, 2025•12 min•Ep. 272
With March Madness approaching, it’s time to break down the Big Ten’s NCAA Tournament chances! In this episode of Big Ten Huddle, we analyze the latest bracketology updates and seeding projections for Purdue, Michigan State, Wisconsin, and more. Who’s a lock, who’s on the bubble, and which teams need a late-season push to make the tournament? We’ll also dive into the long-shot teams like Rutgers, Northwestern, and Iowa—can they turn things around? Stay tuned for in-depth analysis and predictions...
Feb 11, 2025•13 min•Ep. 271
In this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, JR and College Football with Sam talk about the early odds for Ohio State vs Texas and Michigan vs Ohio State. They will also project what the Big Ten Football 2025 recruiting classes and project what it means moving forward for Big ten football recruiting. Next, we will discuss Shane Beamer's comments about the SEC and how it's just different... or is it? Finally, Fanduel has put out win totals for 7 of the 18 Big Ten teams in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio...
Feb 10, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 270
In this video, JR from the Big Ten Huddle shares his early predictions for the top offensive players in the Big Ten for the upcoming season. He breaks down each position, from quarterback to offensive linemen, highlighting the athletes he believes will shine on the field. The list includes a mix of well-known stars and rising talents across the conference. If you're a Big Ten fan eager to see who might dominate the offense next season, this video is for you. Stay tuned for the follow-up video wh...
Feb 09, 2025•18 min•Ep. 269
In this video, we dive deep into the top 10 freshmen who are set to make a significant impact in Big Ten basketball as the season progresses. From exciting Saturday games to individual standout performances, these players are already showing their potential to shape the future of the conference. Join us as we break down their skills, analyze their contributions, and predict how they'll influence their teams' success. If you're a Big Ten basketball fan, you won't want to miss this! Make sure to l...
Feb 09, 2025•23 min•Ep. 268
JR and Rajeev from the Bucky Report team up to give their instant reactions to Purdue vs USC, talk about Dusty May's return to Indiana and what the implications could be, preview the Saturday Big Ten basketball slate, and predict our top 9 Big Ten tournament seeds. 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 cl...
Feb 08, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 267
In this video, we break down the most impactful transfers for every Big Ten football team in 2025. From Preston Stone at Northwestern to Ethan Onianwa at Ohio State, these key players are set to make a big difference in the upcoming season. We'll explore how each transfer fills critical needs for their new teams and the potential impact they'll have on the field. Whether you're a Big Ten fan or just love following college football transfers, this video gives you the insights you need. Make sure ...
Feb 07, 2025•40 min•Ep. 266
In this video, we dive into Mike Woodson’s decision to step down as head coach of Indiana University’s men’s basketball team. We’ll discuss the highs and lows of his tenure, including back-to-back NCAA appearances and key struggles against top teams. Looking ahead, we’ll break down potential coaching candidates like Dusty May and Brad Stevens, and what they could bring to the Hoosiers. We'll also explore what Indiana needs in its next coach to reclaim its national prominence. Tune in to get all ...
Feb 07, 2025•17 min•Ep. 265
In this video, we dive deep into Ohio State’s thrilling 73-70 comeback victory over No. 18 Maryland. After trailing by as much as 17 points, Ohio State turned the game around thanks to a brilliant second-half performance from Bruce Thornton, who scored 31 points and hit the game-winning shot. We’ll break down the key moments, star players, and analyze the pros and cons of both teams’ performances. What does this win mean for Ohio State’s NCAA Tournament hopes? And how will Maryland bounce back a...
Feb 07, 2025•17 min•Ep. 264
In this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, JR and Big Jeff discuss the latest moves across Big Ten football. Rutgers made a bold move by hiring two new defensive coordinators—will they restore the team’s defense in 2025? Washington also replaced both its offensive and defensive coordinators this offseason, and we analyze whether these decisions will pay off. As National Signing Day approaches, we talk about Michigan's prospects of landing top recruit Ty Haywood and Maryland's pursuit of Zahir Mathis...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 263
*The Owen Freeman injury was announced after this podcast was recorded. More from JR: Personal Twitter: https://x.com/jrs_rankings Big Ten Twitter: https://x.com/TheBigTenHuddle Read JR's Ohio State coverage: https://x.com/jrs_rankings Listen to JR on Ohio State (Sundays at 8 pm ET): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb18UD0A7PPUktICZC3ehCg Listen to JR on Illinois (Monday episodes): https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnIllini Listen to JR on Iowa (Monday afternoons): https://x.com/1600ESPN Big Ten B...
Feb 03, 2025•48 min•Ep. 262
In this video, we dive into the exciting world of Big Ten football and discuss which coach might be the next to win their first Big Ten Championship. With 13 coaches in the conference still waiting for their first title, the competition is heating up. We’ll analyze top contenders like Sherrone Moore, Lincoln Riley, Curt Cignetti, and more to see who has the best shot at joining the ranks of Big Ten champions. Who’s got the right mix of talent, strategy, and momentum to claim the crown? Stay tune...
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 34 min•Ep. 261
In this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, we break down the biggest winners and losers from the latest transfer portal window. With top teams like Ohio State, Indiana, and Nebraska making significant moves, we'll analyze the players that could make an immediate impact and those that left major holes. Did your team come out ahead, or did they lose key talent? Join us as we evaluate the transfers, discuss how teams are shaping up, and predict the implications for next season. Don't miss this deep div...
Jan 29, 2025•1 hr 56 min•Ep. 260
In this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, we break down our starting quarterback predictions for the 2025 season and reveal our Big Ten quarterback rankings. With star players like Drew Allar and rising talent Fernando Mendoza, who will lead the pack? Join us as we debate the best Big Ten quarterbacks and examine their Heisman odds. We also discuss the latest in USC football, Oregon football, and the future of Ohio State football. Don’t miss out on our expert analysis and lively debate—get ready fo...
Jan 27, 2025•1 hr 28 min•Ep. 259
Dive into this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, the ultimate Big Ten basketball podcast, as we recap Illinois basketball's clash with Maryland and preview their redemption attempt against Northwestern. JR and Sunny discuss key matchups in Michigan vs. Purdue and explore the implications for Big Ten NCAA tournament hopes. Plus, we reveal our midseason Big Ten awards, highlighting the Player of the Year and more. Tune in for honest and entertaining analysis of Big Ten basketball, including insights ...
Jan 24, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 258
Zack and JR in this video, we break down Ohio State football's national championship win and its significance for the Big Ten. We discuss the biggest takeaways from the game, key player performances, and coach Ryan Day's remarkable narratives this season. With Ohio State leading the charge, the Big Ten has now claimed back-to-back championships, cementing its dominance in college football. We also explore the Big Ten's impressive record against other conferences and debate whether Ohio State is ...
Jan 22, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 257
JR and Kent do their Big Ten Basketball Power Rankings show for Week 12. After a week of upsets and overtime games, power rankings are moving a lot! More from JR: Personal Twitter: https://x.com/jrs_rankings Big Ten Twitter: https://x.com/TheBigTenHuddle Read JR's Ohio State coverage: https://x.com/jrs_rankings Listen to JR on Ohio State (Sundays at 8 pm ET): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb18UD0A7PPUktICZC3ehCg Listen to JR on Illinois (Monday episodes): https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnIlli...
Jan 20, 2025•37 min•Ep. 256
JR and Zack, in this video, dive into the way too early playoff contenders for Big Ten football in 2025 and explore how these teams are stacking up in the national title odds. JR reveals his top 10 Big Ten playoff contenders, and Zack reacts with his analysis, debating whether Ohio State or other teams should be higher or lower. We’ll also break down college football predictions, from sports betting favorites to college football odds, giving you insight into which teams have the best shot at the...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 34 min•Ep. 255
In a groundbreaking move, former Wisconsin football player Xavier Lucas has successfully transferred to Miami without entering the transfer portal, creating a ripple effect across college sports. This unprecedented action, led by his attorney Darren Heitner, could challenge the NCAA's transfer rules and NIL reform policies. With Wisconsin refusing to release Lucas due to a revenue-sharing contract, this case could set a new precedent for Big Ten football and beyond. Watch to learn how this move ...
Jan 18, 2025•12 min•Ep. 254
Last night was a rollercoaster for Big Ten basketball fans as Minnesota pulled off a shocking upset over Michigan, Rutgers stunned Nebraska, and Northwestern delivered a huge statement against Maryland. We'll also dive into UCLA basketball coach Mick Cronin's recent comments on the toughness of the Big Ten and explore whether Indiana basketball coach Mike Woodson’s time might be running out. Finally, we’ll preview the pivotal Illinois vs. Michigan State matchup that could decide the Big Ten cham...
Jan 17, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 253
In this video, we dive into the 2024 season of Big Ten football, analyzing whether each head coach was a success or a failure. From Bret Bielema exceeding expectations at Illinois to Curt Cignetti making history with Indiana, and from Kirk Ferentz's resilience at Iowa to struggles faced by Mike Locksley and Sherrone Moore, every story is covered. Key moments from coaches like Jonathan Smith, PJ Fleck, David Braun, Matt Rhule, and Ryan Day are discussed, alongside the challenges faced by Dan Lann...
Jan 17, 2025•42 min•Ep. 252
JR and Zack, get you ready for a heated clash in college football as the rivalry between Lou Holtz and Ryan Day takes center stage ahead of the 2025 National Championship. In this video, we break down how Holtz’s bold comments about Ohio State football and Ryan Day have fueled the fire between these two programs. With Notre Dame football under Marcus Freeman on the rise, and Ohio State chasing a "natty or bust" season, this showdown is packed with storylines. We explore the impact of Holtz's sta...
Jan 17, 2025•24 min•Ep. 251
JR and Zack, in this video, dive into the latest updates from the world of college football, including a national championship preview and key storylines like Wink Martindale's interviews for NFL defensive coordinator roles and the mysterious Johntay Cook situation. We'll analyze the Penn State football roster and discuss whether they could be the next Big Ten team to make a national championship run. We'll also break down the Notre Dame vs. Ohio State matchup and explore which Notre Dame player...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr 39 min•Ep. 250
In this video, JR and Casual Big Ten Deliver their week 11 Power Rankings of Big Ten basketball teams. Illinis basketball drops after losing to USC, but Michigan basketball jumps up! Did purdue basketball's 2 wins do enough to put them in the top 3? Maybe. But what we know for sure is that Mick Cronin has his UCLA basketball team plummeting after their losses. How about Iowa? Is Iowa basketball for real? That bludgeoning of Indiana sure looks like it! Subscribe to our Basketball channel: https:/...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 249
JR and Zack in this video, we dive deep into the College Football Playoff results, starting with Penn State’s tough loss to Notre Dame and Ohio State’s thrilling victory over Texas. We also explore how the Big Ten continues to assert its dominance over the SEC this season. Additionally, Minnesota Gophers fans will want to hear our discussion on the departure of their defensive coordinator, Corey Hetherman, who is heading to Miami. Finally, JR and Zack reveal their final Big Ten Football Power Ra...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 38 min•Ep. 248
