Big Ten media days kick off in Indianapolis this week, drawing attention to the pressing inquiries surrounding the conference as it gears up for the highly anticipated 2023 season. As the gathering of coaches, players, and journalists commences, the following pivotal questions loom large:
1. Can Ohio State maintain their dominance?
Ohio State has established itself as a perennial powerhouse within the Big Ten, but with the departure of star quarterback Justin Fields to the NFL, there are doubts about their ability to maintain their stranglehold on the conference. How will the Buckeyes navigate this transition and find a suitable successor to continue their winning tradition?
2. Will Michigan regain their former glory?
Michigan, once a formidable force in college football, has struggled to reclaim its past greatness. With new head coach Jim Harbaugh at the helm, can the Wolverines rise from the ashes and restore their prominence? Fans and critics alike eagerly await their performance and the impact of any strategic changes implemented under Harbaugh’s leadership.
3. Is Wisconsin ready to take the next step?
Consistently strong in recent years, Wisconsin has remained a perennial contender in the Big Ten. However, they have fallen short of reaching the College Football Playoff. Can the Badgers elevate themselves to national championship contention? Their success may depend on unlocking the potential of their talented roster and making key adjustments to their game plan.
4. What will Penn State’s resurgence look like?
After enduring a turbulent period following NCAA sanctions, Penn State has gradually regained stability and competitiveness. Under coach James Franklin, they have made significant strides, including an appearance in the Cotton Bowl. But can the Nittany Lions sustain their upward trajectory and solidify themselves as a legitimate contender in the conference?
5. Are there sleepers poised to surprise?
While traditional powerhouses dominate the narrative in the Big Ten, there are often dark horses that emerge unexpectedly. Who might these sleepers be in the 2023 season? Will a team like Iowa, Minnesota, or Northwestern defy expectations and make a run for the conference title? The element of surprise adds intrigue to the conference’s landscape.
6. How will the new coaching hires impact the conference?
Several Big Ten teams have undergone coaching changes since the last season. Notable additions include Mel Tucker at Michigan State and Bret Bielema at Illinois. How will these new leaders reshape their respective programs and influence the competitive balance within the conference? Their strategies and ability to recruit top talent could significantly alter the dynamic of the Big Ten.
7. Can the Big Ten reclaim national superiority?
In recent years, the Big Ten has faced criticism for falling behind other conferences in terms of national prominence. With the SEC consistently dominating and the rise of the Big 12 and ACC, the Big Ten must prove its superiority on the national stage. How will the conference fare against elite non-conference opponents and in crucial bowl matchups?
As the anticipation builds for the 2023 Big Ten football season, these are the paramount questions that hover over the conference. The media days serve as a platform for coaches and players to address these concerns and offer insights into what lies ahead. Football enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of answers as the countdown to kickoff begins.
