Big Ten Head Coach Rankings 2025

·43 min·4 clips

Michigan's Sherrone Moore ranks 15th, but the hosts say he could shoot up to number three with one good season.

The episode begins with the hosts introducing their Big Ten head coach rankings for 2025, noting the challenge of evaluating 18 coaches post-conference realignment. They start with the worst coach, David Braun of Northwestern, discussing his surprising eight-win first year and subsequent struggles. Deshaun Foster of UCLA is ranked 17th, with comments on recruiting and a walk-on player story. Mike Locksley of Maryland is 16th, analyzed for his recent losing season and player transfers. Sherrone Moore of Michigan is placed 15th, with debate over his potential versus limited experience after Jim Harbaugh's departure. Greg Schiano of Rutgers is 14th, praised for making the team competitive. Barry Odom of Purdue is 13th, noted for his success at UNLV and the challenges at Purdue. Jedd Fisch of Washington is 12th, highlighted for turning around Arizona and a solid first year at Washington. PJ Fleck of Minnesota is 11th, recognized for consistent records. Jonathan Smith of Michigan State is 10th, with optimism based on his Oregon State tenure. Luke Fickell of Wisconsin is 9th, criticized for a poor start and offensive fit. Matt Rhule of Nebraska is 8th, with bullish outlooks for the upcoming season. Brett Bielema of Illinois is 7th, commended for turning the program around. Curt Cignetti of Indiana is 6th, praised for a historic 11-win season but questioned for sustainability. Kirk Ferentz of Iowa is 5th, noted for consistency despite offensive issues. Lincoln Riley of USC is 4th, debated for recent struggles but strong track record. James Franklin of Penn State is 3rd, praised for consistency and near-elite status. Dan Lanning of Oregon is 2nd, highlighted for a strong start and recruiting. Ryan Day of Ohio State is 1st, despite recent rivalry losses. The episode ends with a comparison to the SEC and a teaser for the next ranking episode.

As heard by us

A Big Ten coaching ranking turns into a sharp debate about records, setbacks, and Wisconsin's path back.

College Football Bros turns an 18-coach Big Ten ranking into a question of how much a difficult present should count against a coach's record so far.

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Why you'd press play

See the Big Ten coaching pecking order through a preseason lens, with confidence rising and wobbling from one sideline to the next.

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