who will be in the big 10 in 2025

2 min read 01-12-2024

The Big Ten Conference is undergoing a significant transformation, expanding its reach and reshaping college athletics. But who will actually be playing in the Big Ten in 2025? Let's break down the current landscape and project the membership.

The Current Big Ten Members (2023-2024)

As of the 2023-2024 academic year, the Big Ten boasts 18 teams:

East Division: Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Penn State, Rutgers, Indiana
West Division: Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern, Purdue, Wisconsin

The Incoming Big Ten Members: Adding to the Roster

The Big Ten's expansion is a key factor in determining its 2025 lineup. Four schools are set to join the conference:

USC (University of Southern California): The Trojans, a powerhouse in the Pac-12, bring a rich history and strong athletic programs to the Big Ten. Their arrival adds a significant West Coast presence.
UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles): Joining USC, UCLA also represents a major addition from the Pac-12. Their inclusion strengthens the Big Ten's overall athletic profile.
Oregon: The Ducks, another prominent Pac-12 team, will bolster the conference's competitiveness. Their strong athletic programs and dedicated fanbase will add a new dimension.
Washington: Completing the quartet of Pac-12 additions is the University of Washington. Similar to Oregon, Washington brings a tradition of excellence and intense rivalry to the Big Ten.

The Big Ten in 2025: A Projected Lineup

Based on current commitments, the Big Ten in 2025 will likely consist of 22 teams. This will include the current 14 members and the four new additions from the Pac-12: USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington. This large number will likely necessitate a restructuring of the conference's divisions or adoption of a new scheduling format.

Projected Big Ten Members (2025):

Maryland
Michigan
Michigan State
Ohio State
Penn State
Rutgers
Indiana
Illinois
Iowa
Minnesota
Nebraska
Northwestern
Purdue
Wisconsin
USC
UCLA
Oregon
Washington

The Future of the Big Ten: Uncertainties and Potential Changes

While the additions of USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington are firm, the future beyond 2025 remains fluid. College athletics is a dynamic landscape, and further realignment is always a possibility. Factors like television deals, conference stability, and individual university decisions could lead to future changes. It is important to remain aware of the evolving situation in college athletics.

Impact of Expansion on Big Ten Athletics: More Competition, Increased Revenue

The expansion's impact on the Big Ten will be profound. Increased revenue from media rights deals will undoubtedly lead to significant investments in athletic facilities, coaching salaries, and athlete support. However, the added competition will also make the quest for conference titles and national championships even more challenging.

Conclusion: A New Era for the Big Ten

The Big Ten's expansion into the West Coast represents a major shift in the college athletics landscape. The additions of USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington will undeniably elevate the conference’s prestige and competitive balance. While the specifics of the 2025 season remain to be seen, the Big Ten's evolution is certain to bring about a new and exciting era of competition.