Regardless of the record, the Wildcats rarely lack intensity on that side of the ball, and that competitiveness keeps them in games against more talented opponents.

If the offense can become more consistent, the Cornhuskers have enough talent at wide receiver to stress opposing defenses and significantly improve their offensive production.

That stability has allowed Minnesota to remain competitive year after year and regularly exceed outside expectations.

Sheridan has a track record of maximizing offensive talent and should bring fresh ideas to a unit looking to take a step forward.

Quarterback is the most important position on the field, and expecting immediate elite production, even from a highly touted prospect, is rarely a guarantee.

Maryland has quietly assembled one of its more talented rosters in recent years, especially at the skill positions.

Add in the physicality they possess along both the offensive and defensive lines, and Iowa once again has the foundation necessary to remain competitive in the conference.

The Hoosiers no longer view themselves as simply trying to reach bowl eligibility. They believe they can compete with quality opponents and become a consistent factor in the Big Ten race.

Illinois consistently fields fundamentally sound defenses that tackle well, limit explosive plays, and create difficult situations for opposing offenses.

Head coach Clark Lea has steadily improved the program, and the Commodores have become a much tougher team to play.

His ability to make plays with his arm and his legs makes him one of the more dangerous quarterbacks in the conference, and another year of development could make him even more effective.

Knowles has built successful defenses throughout his career and brings a physical, aggressive style to Knoxville.

Manning’s combination of arm strength, mobility, and experience gives Texas one of the conference’s top quarterbacks heading into the season.

South Carolina has quietly become one of the more psychical teams in the SEC, especially along the line of scrimmage.

Even with several key departures, the Rebels still have plenty of talent at the skill positions, giving the offense the ability to create explosive plays and remain one of the more dangerous units in the SEC.

Oklahoma has become much more physical and disciplined team on the defensive side while still maintaining the explosive offense.

Eli Drinkwitz has done an excellent job of raising the program’s floor, bringing them from a team fighting for bowl eligibility into one that expects to compete near the top of the conference.

The Bulldogs have invested heavily in player development and will be counting on several young players to take major steps forward this season. There are promising pieces that could emerge as building blocks for the future.

The running back room may be one of the best in college football. Caden Durham emerged as a dynamic playmaker, while Harlem Berry arrives as one of the most highly scouted recruit in the nation.

Stein’s track record of producing explosive offenses has generated optimism that the Wildcats can finally take a leap on that side of the ball. After struggling to consistently move the ball and create big plays in recent season, Kentucky is hoping a fresh offensive approach can unlock the potential of its roster.