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The 2023 NCAA football season is anticipated to be a monumental one with the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams. Additionally, the Pac-12 conference will undergo significant changes as members leave for larger conferences. In the Big Ten, the battle for the conference title is expected to be thrilling. Preseason polls rank Michigan and Ohio State as top contenders, with Penn State not far behind. This concentration of power could open the door for a team from the West Division, such as Wisconsin or Iowa, to seize the crown. However, one cannot predict the outcomes yet. Nevertheless, you can rely on Doc Sports for the latest updates on the Big Ten and more. Below are Doc’s 2023 Big Ten conference predictions, complete with odds to win the conference and the National Championship.
– Ohio State (+175/+750): After four consecutive Big Ten Championships, Ohio State has fallen short in recent years. Though they have a strong team returning, uncertainties on the offensive line and a new quarterback make their status as favorites precarious. Their tough schedule, including games against Wisconsin and Michigan, further adds to the uncertainty. While they have a chance at a National Championship, it is predicted that they will not reach their season win total of 10.5.
– Michigan (+180/+800): Pollsters and oddsmakers slightly differ on rankings, but both consider Michigan a fierce competitor. Returning offensive and defensive starters, including Heisman finalist RB Blake Corum and QB J.J. McCarthy, make them formidable. Their schedule is tough toward the end, but it is predicted that they will surpass their 10.5-win total and secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship.
– Penn State (+600/+2200): Excitement is high in Happy Valley with talented running backs and a strong offensive line. With an impressive defense, Penn State has a shot at winning the Big Ten. While it may not happen this year, they are expected to surpass their 9.5-win total and make significant strides in the conference.
– Wisconsin (+900/+6000): Wisconsin has been quietly preparing for a successful season under the guidance of new head coach Luke Fickell. A strong offense and defense, alongside a favorable schedule, make them a dark horse contender. It is projected that they will exceed their season win total of 8.5, and their odds provide the best value to win the Big Ten.
– Iowa (+1000/+10000): Despite scoring challenges last season, Iowa now boasts a legitimate Big Ten QB and a strong returning defense. With favorable home games and their solid scoring defense, they are predicted to surpass their season win total of 7.5 and have a successful season.
– Minnesota (+1600/+20000): Though the Golden Gophers had an impressive defense last season, it was against weaker offenses. Their challenging schedule, including games against North Carolina, Iowa, Ohio State, and Purdue, makes it unlikely that they will reach their season win total of 7. They are considered a pretender in the conference.
– Illinois (+2000/+25000): Under coach Bret Bielema, Illinois had a winning season and returns key players. Their season win total of 6.5 is expected to be surpassed, making them a team to watch.
– Nebraska (+2200/+30000): New head coach Matt Rhule faces a challenging task in turning around the struggling Cornhuskers. Their early games against Minnesota and Colorado will dictate their season’s trajectory. It is unlikely that they will reach their season win total of 6.
– Maryland (+10000/+30000): Maryland is considered a dark horse contender in the Big Ten. Led by talented QB Taulia Tagovailoa, they have an advantageous non-conference schedule that could help secure wins. It is predicted that they will surpass their 7-win season total.
As the 2023 NCAA football season approaches, the Big Ten conference is poised for intense competition. Stay tuned for the latest updates from LVSB, who offers college football picks for every game on their college football predictions page.
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Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
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