The Badgers have also made noticeable strides in recruiting, bringing in more talent and giving the program reason for optimism moving forward.

Jedd Fisch has built a competitive roster, but replacing production in the secondary will be one of the team's biggest challenges.

The combination of offensive firepower and defensive playmakers gives the Trojans the talent necessary to compete with anyone on their schedule.

Rutgers has also done an excellent job protecting the football, committing just 11 turnovers last season.

Browne brings valuable experience to the position and gives the Boilermakers stability at the most important spot on the field.

The Nittany Lions continue to recruit and develop defensive talent at a high level, and that side of the ball remains the foundation of the program.

If the offensive line develops consistency, Oregon has everything needed to compete for another conference title.

Replacing NFL talent is never easy, but Ohio State has consistently proven it can reload rather than rebuild.

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.