B1G predictions: Ohio State is in its own league entering 2015

With college football’s focus on national signing day and spring practice around the corner, it’s not too early to look ahead to preseason rankings for 2015. While repeating as a national champion in college football isn’t easy, Ohio State opens as the overwhelming favorite for 2015. The Buckeyes return nearly everyone from last year’s team and are only getting better with the addition of a solid recruiting class. Elsewhere in the East division, all eyes will be on Michigan with the arrival of Jim Harbaugh. Wisconsin is the favorite to win the West, but Nebraska and Minnesota aren’t far behind.  Here are early predictions for the Big Ten in 2015 (2014 record in parentheses). Big Ten East predicted standings 1. Ohio State Buckeyes (14-1, 8-0)The defending national champions are a heavy favorite to repeat in 2015. Of course, that’s easier said than done, as only one team during the BCS era (Alabama) was able to claim back-to-back titles. Ohio State’s path to the championship next season is favorable. Michigan State, Minnesota and Penn State visit Columbus next year, with the season finale at Michigan the toughest road game in conference play. The quarterback battle between Cardale Jones, J.T. Barrett and Braxton Miller (if he stays at Ohio State) will be one of the nation’s most intriguing storylines to watch this preseason. Regardless of which quarterback starts, the supporting cast is loaded with returning talent. …

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