Big Ten Freshman of the Year Power Rankings

As the Big Ten football season approaches, analysts and fans alike are eager to see which freshman players will make the most significant impact. Zack and JR have both compiled their rankings for the top contenders for the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award. While there is some overlap in their lists, their perspectives offer distinct insights into who might emerge as the standout freshman of the season. Below, we break down each of their top five rankings.

Zack’s Top 5 Freshmen

Dylan Rayola (Nebraska)
Zack places Dylan Rayola at the top of his list, citing the volume and importance of the quarterback position at Nebraska. Zack believes that if Nebraska has a bounce-back year, Rayola will be the driving force, making him the frontrunner for Freshman of the Year.
Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State)
Although Jeremiah Smith is a close second, Zack is slightly concerned about his potential volume. While he acknowledges Smith’s talent and high ranking within Ohio State’s wide receiver room, Zack thinks Rayola’s role as a quarterback gives him the edge.
Koi Perich (Minnesota)
Zack and JR both agree on Koi Perich’s potential, placing him third in their rankings. Parrish has been a hot name in discussions, and Zack sees him as a key player for Minnesota this season.
Aaron Flowers (Oregon)
Zack places Aaron Flowers fourth, noting that Flowers is expected to see significant playing time for Oregon. His position in the lineup and potential impact earn him a spot in Zack’s top five.
Jordan Marshall (Michigan)
Rounding out Zack’s top five is Jordan Marshall from Michigan. While Marshall may not have the same hype as some other names on the list, Zack believes he could play a crucial role for Michigan this season.

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JR’s Top 5 Freshmen

Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State)
JR ranks Jeremiah Smith as his top freshman, pointing to the hype surrounding Smith and his potential to be one of Ohio State’s top three wide receivers this season. JR thinks that Smith’s ability to deliver big plays could set him apart.
Dylan Rayola (Nebraska)
JR agrees that Dylan Rayola is a strong contender but places him second, largely due to the ongoing quarterback competition at Nebraska. JR believes that if Rayola is named the starter, he could easily take the top spot.
Koi Perich (Minnesota)
Like Zack, JR ranks Koi Perich third. He recognizes the buzz around Parrish and sees him as a significant contributor to Minnesota’s success this season.
Elijah Rushing (Oregon)
JR opts for Elijah Rushing at fourth, noting that Rushing is another Oregon player expected to get considerable playing time. His potential impact on the field earns him a spot on JR’s list.
Jordan Marshall (Michigan)
JR also includes Jordan Marshall in his top five, aligning with Zack on the Michigan freshman’s potential. Both agree that Marshall could be a vital part of Michigan’s plans this season.

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Analysis

While Zack and JR agree on many names, their rankings reflect slightly different evaluations of each player’s potential impact. Zack favors the quarterback role and believes Rayola’s position at Nebraska could be decisive, while JR is more impressed with the hype and immediate impact that Smith could bring to Ohio State.

Both analysts are closely watching Koi Perich, Aaron Flowers, Elijah Rushing, and Jordan Marshall, with the understanding that these freshmen have the talent to shape their teams’ seasons. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see whose predictions come closer to reality, and which freshman ultimately claims the Big Ten Freshman of the Year title.