As the college football season kicks off, the Big Ten makes a bold statement with a staggering 16-2 record in Week 1! However, with only three teams facing Power Four opponents, the rankings reveal plenty of intrigue as we dive into this exciting season.

18. Northwestern

Previous Rank: 17 | Last Week: Lost to Tulane, 23-3 | Next Up: vs. Western Illinois, Friday at 7:30 p.m. The Wildcats' offense knocked on disaster's door yet again as quarterback Preston Stone struggled, tossing four interceptions. With a lackluster performance, fans are left asking if there’s hope for a turnaround.

17. UCLA

Previous Rank: 13 | Last Week: Lost to Utah, 43-10 | Next Up: at UNLV, Saturday at 8 p.m. High-profile transfer Nico Iamaleava learned the hard way that greener pastures come with struggles. A disappointing debut leaves the team facing an uphill battle.

16. Rutgers

Previous Rank: 15 | Last Week: Beat Ohio 34-31 | Next Up: vs. Miami (OH), Saturday at 3:30 p.m. A thrilling victory for the Scarlet Knights came with glaring defensive holes, as they allowed 440 yards. However, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis shone with 252 yards and two touchdowns.

15. Purdue

Previous Rank: 18 | Last Week: Beat Ball State, 31-0 | Next Up: vs. Southern Illinois, Saturday at 7:30 p.m. With their first win under new coach Barry Odom, the Boilermakers look promising as quarterback Ryan Browne dazzles with 311 yards passing and their defense stands strong.

14. Maryland

Previous Rank: 17 | Last Week: Beat FAU, 39-7 | Next Up: vs. Northern Illinois, Friday at 7:30 p.m. The Terrapins shocked fans with an impressive win, courtesy of true freshman QB Malik Washington’s stellar 258 yards and three touchdowns. But can they maintain this momentum?

13. Wisconsin

Previous Rank: 15 | Last Week: Beat Miami (OH), 17-0 | Next Up: vs. Southern Illinois, Saturday at 7:30 p.m. A strong defensive show, limiting Miami to a mere 117 yards, is encouraging, but quarterback Billy Edwards Jr.’s injury raises concerns for the Badgers moving forward.

12. Michigan State

Previous Rank: 12 | Last Week: Beat Western Michigan, 23-6 | Next Up: vs. Boston College, Saturday at 7:30 p.m. An impressive opener for the Spartans capped off with solid defensive play and an efficient performance by starter Aidan Chiles.

11. Minnesota

Previous Rank: 11 | Last Week: Beat Buffalo, 23-10 | Next Up: vs. Northwestern State, Saturday at noon. The Gophers’ defense stood tall but the fate of the season may hinge on the development of quarterback Drake Lindsey, who had a decent debut.

10. Washington

Previous Rank: 9 | Last Week: Beat Colorado State 38-21 | Next Up: vs. UC Davis, Saturday at 11 p.m. After a strong offensive performance against CSU, the Huskies need to keep up the offensive rhythm in the coming match.

9. Indiana

Previous Rank: 6 | Last Week: Beat Old Dominion, 27-14 | Next Up: vs. Kennesaw State, Saturday at noon. The Hoosiers scraped by with a win but showed serious defensive vulnerabilities that should concern their fans.

8. Iowa

Previous Rank: 8 | Last Week: Beat UAlbany, 34-7 | Next Up: at No. 16 Iowa State, Saturday at noon. The Hawkeyes struggled in the passing game, a piece they desperately need to improve upon for their next matchup.

7. Nebraska

Previous Rank: 7 | Last Week: Beat Cincinnati, 20-17 | Next Up: vs. Akron, Saturday at 7:30 p.m. In a thrilling finish, Nebraska secured a much-needed win. Dylan Raiola’s passing could be key to their success moving forward.

6. USC

Previous Rank: 10 | Last Week: Beat Missouri State, 73-13 | Next Up: vs. Georgia Southern, Saturday at 7:30 p.m. USC showed no mercy with a staggering 60-point victory that catapulted them up the rankings!

5. Illinois

Previous Rank: 5 | Last Week: Beat Western Illinois, 52-3 | Next Up: at Duke, Saturday at noon. The Illini impressed with a dominant victory, showcasing their star quarterback Luke Altmyer.

4. Michigan

Previous Rank: 4 | Last Week: Beat New Mexico, 34-17 | Next Up: at No. 18 Oklahoma. The Wolverines navigated a tricky terrain and need to sort out penalties as they face ranked opponents ahead.

3. Oregon

Previous Rank: 3 | Last Week: Beat Montana State, 59-13 | Next Up: vs. Oklahoma State, Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Oregon made easy work of their opening match, hinting at a strong season ahead.

2. Penn State

Previous Rank: 2 | Last Week: Beat Nevada, 46-11 | Next Up: vs. Florida International, Saturday at noon. Drew Allar sparkled in his first game, and the Nittany Lions look ready to chase greatness this season.

1. Ohio State

Previous Rank: 1 | Last Week: Beat No. 1 Texas, 14-7 | Next Up: vs. Grambling, Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The Buckeyes silenced critics with a strong defensive showing, evading any signs of a title hangover. With first-time starter Julian Sayin at helm, Ohio State is set for another compelling season.