The Big Ten Paradigm podcast is back for the 2025 college football season—this time with a brand-new host, Noah Drury. A Spex Howard graduate and Michigan-based broadcaster, Drury brings fresh energy to the College Gridiron Coast to Coast Podcast Network. In his debut episode, he dives right into what promises to be one of the most intriguing Big Ten seasons yet.
Penn State, Ohio State, and Oregon Lead Early Big Ten Football Storylines
Drury starts with Penn State, ranked No. 2 in the preseason AP Poll. The Nittany Lions return quarterback Drew Aller, running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen, plus 14 total starters. That continuity, combined with key transfer additions like USC’s Kyron Hudson and Syracuse’s Trevor Peña, has fans buzzing. With James Franklin at the helm and Jim Knowles strengthening the defense, Penn State looks ready to chase a playoff spot.
Defending national champion Ohio State sits at No. 3 but enters with questions at quarterback. Will it be Julian Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz, or even a situational role for Kyle McCord? Still, Ryan Day’s squad has an elite receiver group and defensive stars like Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles. The Buckeyes may have turnover up front, but they remain loaded with talent.
Oregon, ranked No. 7, faces uncertainty after losing top weapons to injury and the NFL draft. However, Dante Moore leads a promising offense, and edge rusher Mateo Uiagalelei headlines a retooled defense. If the Ducks’ younger playmakers step up, they could surprise.
Michigan State Rebuilds While Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana Aim to Climb
The episode also highlights Michigan State, where Drury is joined by Sports Illustrated’s Tom Cavanaugh. The Spartans aren’t expected to compete for a Big Ten title yet, but second-year coach Jonathan Smith has infused the program with optimism and transfer talent. The goal: reach a bowl game and build for the future.
Beyond those contenders, Drury touches on Michigan’s quarterback competition, Illinois’ experience under Luke Altmeyer, and Indiana’s momentum with Fernando Mendoza. With new quarterbacks across the league, the 2025 Big Ten season feels like a true wildcard.
It’s going to be a wild season for Big Ten football, so be sure to listen to Big Ten Paradigm every week.
Listen to “Big 10 Paradigm: Get Ready For A Wild 2025” on Spreaker.
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