Big Ten Power Rankings Week 7: Oregon Rises, Upsets Shake Up the Conference

Week 7 in the Big Ten brought a whirlwind of action, with massive upsets, overtime thrillers, and dominating performances across the board. As the dust settles, here’s my updated power rankings. Some teams solidified their spots as contenders, while others face uncertainty. Let’s dive in:

1. Oregon (6-0)
Oregon claims the top spot after a thrilling 32-31 victory over Ohio State. Dillon Gabriel led the charge with 341 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a late game-winning rushing score. Oregon’s offensive versatility and timely defensive stops, including a crucial offensive pass interference call against Ohio State, sealed their victory. This win establishes Oregon as the team to beat in the Big Ten.

2. Ohio State (5-1)
Despite a narrow loss to Oregon, Ohio State retains its spot near the top. Will Howard threw for 336 yards and two touchdowns, but the Buckeyes struggled with clock management and a late-game fumble. Their only loss is to the now top-ranked Ducks, and they still have a shot at redemption. However, questions about execution in critical moments linger.

3. Penn State (6-0)
Penn State remains undefeated after a 33-30 overtime win against USC. Tight end Tyler Warren had a historic game with 17 receptions for 224 yards, and Drew Allar threw for 391 yards despite three interceptions. Penn State’s resilience, particularly in coming back from a 14-point deficit, keeps them in the top three, though they haven’t proven themselves superior to Ohio State just yet.

4. Indiana (6-0)
Indiana is quietly having a strong season, and while their schedule hasn’t been the toughest, they’ve taken care of business. With a showdown against Nebraska looming, they’ll get a chance to prove themselves further. Their dominant performances so far keep them comfortably in the top four, but we’ll see if they’re ready for the upcoming challenges.

5. Illinois (5-1)
Illinois came out on top in a wild 50-49 overtime victory against Purdue. Luke Altmyer led the way with 379 passing yards and three touchdowns, and despite blowing a huge lead, the Illini got the win. Illinois’ victory keeps them above Nebraska, but questions about their consistency and defense arise after nearly letting Purdue complete a massive comeback.

6. Nebraska (5-2)
Nebraska had a bye this week, but their body of work keeps them in the top half of the rankings. They’ve shown steady improvement, and with Indiana coming up, this next game will be pivotal. Their overall strong play means they could rise further with a big win over the Hoosiers.

7. Iowa (4-2)
Iowa dominated Washington 40-16, giving head coach Kirk Ferentz his 200th win. Kaleb Johnson had a breakout performance with 166 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while the defense came up with big plays, including a blocked field goal. Despite two losses, both to top-ten teams, Iowa is back in the mix and climbing.

8. Michigan (4-2)
Michigan stays in the middle of the pack after their bye week. They’ve struggled against weaker competition, and they have yet to claim a signature win. However, upcoming games will provide opportunities to prove they belong in the upper echelon of the conference.

9. Minnesota (4-3)
Minnesota’s 21-17 comeback win over UCLA showcased their resilience. Max Brosmer orchestrated a last-minute touchdown drive, and Darius Taylor scored the game-winner with 27 seconds remaining. This victory puts the Gophers back on track, though their inconsistency remains a concern.

10. Wisconsin (4-2)
Wisconsin had a dominant 42-7 win over Rutgers. Tawee Walker ran for 198 yards and three touchdowns, and the defense stifled Rutgers’ offense all day. After a rocky start to the season, Wisconsin looks like a team no one wants to face down the stretch.

11. Rutgers (4-2)
Rutgers took a big step back with a 42-7 loss to Wisconsin. Their offense struggled, and the defense couldn’t contain Wisconsin’s rushing attack. Rutgers needs to regroup quickly to avoid sliding further down the rankings.

12. Washington (4-3)
After a 40-16 blowout loss to Iowa, Washington drops several spots. Their inconsistency has been glaring, and while they’ve had flashes of potential, they’re running out of time to turn things around.

13. USC (3-3)
USC fought hard but fell 33-30 in overtime to Penn State. Despite jumping out to an early lead, they couldn’t hold on. This team is more talented than their record suggests, but they haven’t been able to finish games, resulting in their current ranking.

14. Michigan State (2-4)
Michigan State drops a spot after their bye week. They’ve had flashes of competence but are largely underwhelming this season. Their matchup with Rutgers next week offers a chance to turn things around.

15. Northwestern (2-5)
Northwestern got their first Big Ten win in dominant fashion, beating Maryland 37-10. Aidan Hubbard’s fumble recovery for a touchdown capped a strong defensive showing. While this win offers hope, it’s still hard to place them higher given their overall struggles.

16. UCLA (1-5)
UCLA’s late-game collapse against Minnesota highlighted their issues in the Big Ten. They remain winless in the conference, and their season continues to spiral downward.

17. Maryland (3-3)
Maryland’s 37-10 loss to Northwestern marked their fourth turnover-filled game. Billy Edwards Jr. managed 296 passing yards but had costly mistakes. The Terps continue their October woes, dropping them near the bottom of the rankings.

18. Purdue (1-6)
Purdue’s late rally fell short in a 50-49 overtime loss to Illinois. Ryan Browne’s 297 passing yards and three touchdowns couldn’t complete the comeback. They’ve now lost five straight and sit at the bottom of the rankings.

Week 8 will bring even more movement as teams face critical matchups. Stay tuned as the Big Ten race heats up!

About The Author

JR Rhoades

Host of the Big Ten Huddle