The Big Ten is loaded with storylines this fall, but two tower over the rest. Ohio State is chasing back-to-back national titles while boasting one of the sport’s brightest stars. Meanwhile, Penn State is once again in “prove it” mode after years of falling short in the biggest moments. Both programs face high expectations, and the answers to these questions could define the season.
First, all eyes are on wideout Jeremiah Smith. The Ohio State sophomore already has a championship ring and the numbers to match: 76 catches, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns last year. Now, the conversation is shifting to history. Can he become one of the rare receivers to win the Heisman Trophy? His season opener against No. 1 Texas may set the tone for that chase.
The other pressing question lives in Happy Valley. Penn State has been stocked with talent, but James Franklin’s 1-15 record against top-five teams is a glaring hurdle. Quarterback Drew Allar, the Nittany Lions’ all-time leader in completion percentage, is their best hope to change that narrative.
These two stories, the Heisman hopes in Columbus and the breakthrough dreams in State College, aren’t just side plots. They’re central to who runs the Big Ten this fall. Fans won’t have to wait long for answers.
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