Big Ten OL Rankings: Top Units, Surprises & Size for 2025

In this episode of the Big Ten Huddle, host JR, joined by Mike from We Live for Saturday podcast, delivers an in-depth preview of the Big Ten offensive lines for the 2025 college football season. The discussion covers JR’s offensive line rankings, potential surprise teams, the impact of size, and whether the Big Ten boasts the best offensive lines in college football. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Topics Discussed

Big Ten Offensive Line Rankings for 2025: JR shares his rankings, starting with Penn State at #1 due to their experienced and talented linemen like Drew Shelton and Vega Ioane. Oregon (#2) is praised for their coaching and Joe Moore Award finalist status, while Iowa (#3) stands out with returning starters like Logan Jones. Ohio State (#4), Indiana (#5), and Michigan (#6) follow, with detailed analysis of key players and concerns like injuries or inexperience. The rankings continue through Illinois (#10), Northwestern (#11), Wisconsin (#12), and others, with insights into their experience and potential.

Surprise Offensive Lines: JR and Mike discuss teams like Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, Washington, Michigan State, and USC that could outperform expectations. Illinois benefits from veteran chemistry, Minnesota from increased athleticism, and Nebraska from star power like Elijah Pritchett, though their running backs raise questions.

Biggest Offensive Lines in College Football: Using data from crescentcitysports.com, JR reveals Penn State as the largest offensive line (6'5.2", 319.4 lbs), followed by Ohio State (#5), Oregon (#8), Illinois (#11), USC (#13), Indiana (#17), and Michigan (#20). The hosts discuss how size, combined with athleticism, impacts performance.

Big Ten vs. College Football: The episode concludes with a debate on whether the Big Ten has the best offensive lines in college football. While the SEC leads in size, the Big Ten’s depth and upperclassmen give it a slight edge, with teams like Illinois potentially ranking in the national top 20.

Useful Timestamps

00:02:27 - JR’s Big Ten offensive line rankings begin

00:24:14 - Discussion on surprise offensive lines

00:27:43 - Analysis of the biggest offensive lines

00:31:50 - Debate: Does the Big Ten have the best O-lines?

00:35:06 - Closing remarks and appreciation for Mike

Additional Notes

Mike stepped in as a last-minute guest, bringing insights from his podcast, We Live for Saturday. Follow him on X at @WeLiveForB1GSat or personally at @ahlibobwa26.

The episode emphasizes the importance of chemistry, experience, and coaching in offensive line performance, with a nod to fans like Dave, a Minnesota Gophers supporter, in the live chat.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the Big Ten Huddle on YouTube (like, comment, subscribe) or follow on X at @BigTenHuddle. Email feedback to [email protected].

Links

We Live for Saturday on YouTube

Big Ten Huddle on X

Crescent City Sports - Offensive Line Size Data

Apple Podcasts - Big Ten Huddle

Spotify - Big Ten Huddle

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The Big Ten Huddle is a podcast dedicated to providing honest, humorous, and insightful analysis of Big Ten football and basketball. With a focus on challenging the national bias, especially against the SEC, hosts JR and Zack offer unfiltered discussions that engage fans of all Big Ten teams. Though critical at times, they always aim to defend the conference and give credit where it’s due, bringing humor and deep analysis together for a unique listening experience.

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