Big Ten Expansion Shifts National Championship Odds

The Big Ten conference has solidified its position as a dominant force in college football, notably after its 2024 expansion that brought in powerhouse programs like Oregon, USC, UCLA, and Washington, increasing the league to 18 teams. This realignment has enhanced the conference's on-field competitiveness and financial clout, with top spending programs such as Ohio State and Oregon driving its rise. The success of newcomers, exemplified by Oregon's undefeated regular season and Big Ten championship in their debut year, has shifted perceptions among analysts and oddsmakers, who now favor Big Ten teams like Ohio State in national championship betting markets. Meanwhile, Purdue football faces a rebuilding year under new coach Barry Odom, with ESPN ranking them last in the Big Ten due to an almost entirely new roster and previous struggles. Additionally, the broader college football season could see notable FCS over FBS upsets, with several FCS teams poised to challenge higher-division opponents, adding intrigue to the 2025 landscape. Overall, the Big Ten's expansion and competitive depth continue to reshape college football's balance of power and fan expectations.