Big Ten Surprises and Playoff Hopes

Back on the AP Top 25 panel for Illinois, I’m bracing for fan fire but loving the job. My early 2026 Top 10 holds — except Texas Tech, whose fate hinges on QB Brendan Sorsby. Beyond the Top 10, expect a surprise playoff team from outside the Power Four. I’m eyeing Indiana, Ohio State, and Oregon as legit CFP contenders — even putting Indiana at No. 1. The Big Ten’s fourth spot? USC and Washington are neck-and-neck, with their October LA showdown possibly deciding playoff fate. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/680080dfb8a5f7f0