News
November 20, 2025
Big Ten power rankings: 5 teams still in hunt for CFP berth
This week's Big Ten slate includes a conference championship contention elimination game between USC and Oregon.
**Five Big Ten Teams Still Eye Coveted College Football Playoff Spot**
The Big Ten Conference is a battleground this year, with five teams still realistically vying for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). As the season barrels towards its conclusion, every game carries immense weight, and the margin for error has shrunk to practically nothing. This week's schedule is particularly crucial, featuring matchups that will directly impact the playoff picture.
The conference is currently dominated by a handful of powerhouses, each boasting impressive records and championship aspirations. While several teams have already fallen out of contention, these five remain in the hunt, their hopes fueled by strong performances and a favorable (or at least manageable) remaining schedule.
Adding to the intensity, this week's slate includes a high-stakes game between USC and Oregon. While not Big Ten teams, their performance significantly impacts the perception and strength of schedule for Big Ten contenders. This game acts as a de facto elimination game for conference championship contention, meaning the loser will likely see their playoff dreams dashed. The winner, on the other hand, will keep their hopes alive and potentially strengthen the resume of a Big Ten team they’ve played.
The outcome of the USC-Oregon game will undoubtedly send ripples through the Big Ten, influencing the rankings and shifting the odds for the remaining contenders. A decisive victory for either team could bolster the conference's overall strength, while a close, hard-fought battle would highlight the competitiveness of the college football landscape as a whole.
Beyond the headlining game, other Big Ten matchups will also play a vital role in shaping the playoff picture. Every win and loss will be scrutinized, and the conference standings will likely see significant changes in the coming weeks. Fans can expect a thrilling finish to the regular season as these five teams fight tooth and nail for a chance to compete for the national championship. The pressure is on, and the stakes have never been higher.
The Big Ten Conference is a battleground this year, with five teams still realistically vying for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). As the season barrels towards its conclusion, every game carries immense weight, and the margin for error has shrunk to practically nothing. This week's schedule is particularly crucial, featuring matchups that will directly impact the playoff picture.
The conference is currently dominated by a handful of powerhouses, each boasting impressive records and championship aspirations. While several teams have already fallen out of contention, these five remain in the hunt, their hopes fueled by strong performances and a favorable (or at least manageable) remaining schedule.
Adding to the intensity, this week's slate includes a high-stakes game between USC and Oregon. While not Big Ten teams, their performance significantly impacts the perception and strength of schedule for Big Ten contenders. This game acts as a de facto elimination game for conference championship contention, meaning the loser will likely see their playoff dreams dashed. The winner, on the other hand, will keep their hopes alive and potentially strengthen the resume of a Big Ten team they’ve played.
The outcome of the USC-Oregon game will undoubtedly send ripples through the Big Ten, influencing the rankings and shifting the odds for the remaining contenders. A decisive victory for either team could bolster the conference's overall strength, while a close, hard-fought battle would highlight the competitiveness of the college football landscape as a whole.
Beyond the headlining game, other Big Ten matchups will also play a vital role in shaping the playoff picture. Every win and loss will be scrutinized, and the conference standings will likely see significant changes in the coming weeks. Fans can expect a thrilling finish to the regular season as these five teams fight tooth and nail for a chance to compete for the national championship. The pressure is on, and the stakes have never been higher.
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