Big Ten Coaches Address Playoff Expansion, Team Progress at Media Days

At the 2025 Big Ten Media Days, several football coaches and players expressed optimism about their teams' prospects and addressed key issues facing college football. Washington coach Jedd Fisch highlighted the Huskies' cultural growth and competitiveness in the Big Ten, supporting commissioner Tony Petitti's expanded College Football Playoff model that would grant the Big Ten four automatic playoff berths due to its depth. Illinois coach Bret Bielema, entering his fifth season, praised his coaching staff and athletic director while emphasizing the importance of the College Football Playoff expansion and player compensation; he also lauded quarterback Luke Altmyer's intelligence and work ethic. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola acknowledged the program's struggles in close games and described his offseason dedication to improving his physical conditioning to help change that narrative. Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith reflected on the previous season's challenges, particularly an offensive pass interference call, and expressed confidence in the team's ability to dominate in 2025. Overall, the sentiments at Big Ten Media Days centered on growing competitiveness, evolving playoff structures, and individual and team improvements across the conference.