The 2025 Big Ten football season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With 18 teams now in the mix, including newcomers from the West Coast, sportsbooks have posted early title odds for each program. Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon are the clear top three favorites, but several others are within reach.
Michigan, Nebraska, Illinois, and Indiana are in the second tier of contenders. There are also teams with longshot odds that could provide value. If you’re looking to bet or become a PPH bookie, now is the time to prepare for the season. Start today with WagerHome and run your own sportsbook.
Ohio State Preview – Title Favorites Once Again
Ohio State leads the odds at +170 to +210. The Buckeyes return talent on both sides of the ball and are coming off a national title. They have one of the highest win totals in the country at 10.5.
The offense is led by Julian Sayin, with a strong group of receivers and a deep offensive line. They’ll be tested early by Texas, then later by Penn State and Michigan. If they win two of those, they’re likely back in the Big Ten title game.
The defense remains strong, led by returning stars and added transfers. With no Oregon on the schedule, the Buckeyes have a favorable path back to the top.
Penn State Preview – Allar Leads Experienced Squad
Penn State’s title odds range from +250 to +380. The Nittany Lions bring back Drew Allar at quarterback along with running backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton. Their win total is also 10.5.
The offense is deep and returns most starters. Penn State also brought in Jim Knowles to run the defense. That side of the ball is already strong and could improve even more.
The team’s biggest games are against Oregon and at Ohio State. If they split those and handle the rest of their schedule, they’ll be in the mix for the title.
Oregon Preview – Ducks Eye Back-to-Back Title Game Trips
Oregon is right there with Penn State in the odds at +230 to +270. The Ducks went undefeated in the regular season last year before falling in the Playoff. They return most of their starters.
Dante Moore takes over at quarterback. He’ll have weapons around him and a line that protected well last season. The defense is physical and fast, with several future NFL picks.
The Ducks avoid Michigan and Ohio State. They travel to Penn State but get USC and Washington at home. Their win total is 10.5.
Michigan Preview – New QB Room, Big Opportunity
Michigan has odds around +650 to +850. The Wolverines lost key players to the NFL but brought in Mikey Keene from Fresno State. Five-star freshman Bryce Underwood could also start at quarterback.
They play Oklahoma, Nebraska, and USC on the road. The home game against Ohio State could decide their season. Their win total sits at 8.5, showing some concern from sportsbooks.
The defense still has experience and should be solid. But for Michigan to compete for a title again, they’ll need the new quarterbacks to produce right away.
Indiana Preview – Can They Stay Near the Top?
Indiana has odds from +2500 to +4000. They shocked everyone last season by reaching the College Football Playoff. Coach Curt Cignetti has rebuilt the culture quickly.
The Hoosiers return several key starters but have a tougher schedule in 2025. They go on the road to Iowa, Oregon, and Penn State. Their win total is 8.5.
Indiana’s defense showed up big last year and will need to do it again. If they get good QB play and win their home games, they could stay in the race.
Illinois Preview – Steady and Strong Returning Core
Illinois is +2500 to +6000 depending on the book. They return third-year starter Luke Altmyer at quarterback and most of the defense. The schedule is soft, and they avoid both Ohio State and Michigan.
The offense is balanced, and the run game is key. The defense improved last year and looks deep again. Their win total is 7.5, but 9 wins is within reach.
This team went 10-3 last year. If they repeat that, they could be a value pick to win the Big Ten. A Week 6 home game against USC will be a big test.
Nebraska Preview – Raiola Era Begins
Nebraska is listed between +3500 and +4500. New quarterback Dylan Raiola is a former five-star recruit. Matt Rhule’s teams often break out in year three, and this is his third season.
The Huskers have a soft start to the schedule but finish with tough games at Penn State and Illinois. Their win total is 7.5. If Raiola performs, they could win eight or more.
The defense is strong and returns several leaders. The biggest question is whether the offense can keep up with better teams. There’s upside here if everything clicks.
Other Mid-Tier Contenders
USC, Iowa, and Washington all sit between +4500 and +7000. USC brings back Jayden Maiva and several offensive weapons. But the defense must improve. They face Illinois, Oregon, and Nebraska on the road.
Iowa always has a strong defense under Phil Parker. They add FCS champion Mark Gronowski at quarterback. The schedule includes Penn State, Oregon, and USC.
Washington went 6-6 last year but returns Demond Williams at quarterback. They get Ohio State and Oregon at home. If they win one or both, they could be in the race late in the year.
Longshots With Value
Minnesota is +10000 and returns enough to go bowling again. They have a strong start to the year and could get to six wins early. The defense will be tested late in the season.
Wisconsin and Michigan State are both +15000 or higher. The Badgers are trying to bounce back under Luke Fickell after missing a bowl last year. Michigan State will rely on young quarterback Aidan Chiles to make a leap.
UCLA, Rutgers, Maryland, Northwestern, and Purdue are +18000 or longer. These teams all have major question marks and tough schedules. One might exceed expectations, but they’re longshots for a reason.
PPH Betting Prediction
Ohio State is the best bet to win the Big Ten in 2025. They have the talent, experience, and schedule to get it done. Penn State and Oregon also have clear paths to the title game. Both teams return their starting quarterbacks and most of their top players.
Michigan and Illinois offer value if things go right. Nebraska is the best longshot if Dylan Raiola performs. To track odds and offer action to your bettors, sign up now at WagerHome and take control as a PPH sportsbook owner.
Pick: Ohio State +190
