The Big Ten’s reputation across the country finally recovered a bit in 2014, thanks in large part to Ohio State’s national title run, but the Buckeyes weren’t the only team propping up the oldest conference in college football. The Big Ten’s other heavy hitters had an impressive postseason as well, with Michigan State scoring a win over Baylor in the Cotton Bowl and Wisconsin knocking off Auburn in the Outback Bowl. Still, as we head into 2015, the Big Ten seems like a conference that’s Ohio State, Michigan State and a whole lot of question marks. It’s one thing to have a successful season, but in order for the conference to completely rehab its reputation, the success needs to be sustained. While Ohio State will no doubt be a title contender in 2015, and Michigan State should remain its biggest obstacle, the other 12 teams in the league need to take a step forward. Coaching changes will play a large role in the Big Ten’s fate. Just about everybody expects the hiring of Jim Harbaugh to turn around Michigan’s fortunes, but how quickly can the Wolverines become a conference title contender again? The latest from SportsLineWill hiring Mike Riley be what Nebraska needs to get over the hump and become a true power yet again? Will things keep rolling along in Madison now that Paul Chryst is back in town? Can Penn State take a step forward in James Franklin’s second season? …
Continue Reading: Big Ten Preview: Predicting league’s best players and coach for 2015
