Big Ten Spring Practice Preview: Key Questions for 2025 Season
As spring unfolds across the Midwest, excitement stirs among Big Ten football fans. With longer days and warmer weather, attention shifts from basketball to the gridiron, especially after the league’s recent success with back-to-back national titles. With spring practices for the 2025 season launching, optimism fills the air, although myriad questions loom for all 18 Big Ten programs. Here’s an overview of the pressing issues facing each school as they gear up for the upcoming season.
Illinois
With their first 10-win season in almost 25 years, Illinois looks to build on last year’s momentum. The core roster remains intact, raising expectations for a potential playoff push. A critical question is who will step up at the receiver position in the absence of Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin. Transfers like Hudson Clement from West Virginia will aid in filling the gap, but success also hinges on the development of returnees such as Hank Beaty and Collin Dixon.
Indiana
Following an ambitious roster overhaul through the transfer portal, Indiana is eager to explore whether their new acquisitions can create a winning formula. Head coach Curt Cignetti has infused the team with talent, adding quarterback Francisco Mendoza and other key offensive players. The spring practices will serve as an early barometer for how effectively these new faces can integrate and elevate the team’s performance.
Iowa
With an offense that saw significant improvement under new coordinator Tim Lester, the Hawkeyes are eager to see if that success can be sustained. The departure of running back Kaleb Johnson and a new face at quarterback, Mark Gronowski, raise questions about Iowa’s offensive consistency. Will Gronowski, a former standout at South Dakota State, be the key to a revitalized passing attack?
Maryland
After a difficult 2024 season, Maryland faces significant transition, with 21 players leaving via the transfer portal, including top quarterbacks and skill position players. A question arises: can this comprehensive roster overhaul lead to better results? The spring practices will spotlight the quarterback battle, particularly between UCLA transfer Justyn Martin and freshman Malik Washington, who is expected to make an impact.
Michigan
Having experienced a less-than-ideal follow-up to their national title, Michigan now looks to the future with quarterback Bryce Underwood at the helm. Veteran transfer Mikey Keene enters the mix as the coaching staff evaluates their options. This spring will be crucial for determining the starting lineup and how the Wolverines can reconcile their recent struggles with their championship aspirations.
Michigan State
As questions surround quarterback Aidan Chiles and his ability to improve upon a rocky first starting year, Michigan State remains hopeful for growth in 2025. After a season of mixed performances, Chiles will be under scrutiny to refine his game and enhance his decision-making with another offseason in the program.
Minnesota
With a new defensive coordinator, Danny Collins, taking over amidst significant turnover in coaching, the Gophers must adapt quickly. The reliance on a strong defense to complement their gameplay has become more critical as the team navigates this transition year. How will Collins’ approach affect Minnesota’s defensive strategy as they seek stability?
Nebraska
Losing significant defensive talent and transitioning to a new defensive coordinator can be challenging for Nebraska. The promotion of John Butler aims to bring continuity, yet with many emerging starters, important adjustments will be necessary in Lincoln to maintain their defensive performance.
Northwestern
With a relatively quiet transfer portal season, Northwestern aims to reinvigorate its offense with the addition of quarterback Preston Stone and the return of key players like running back Cam Porter. The team’s ability to rebound from last year’s struggles likely hinges on improvements in both the offense and a renewed defense, significantly altered through portal acquisitions.
Ohio State
As the Buckeyes transition following a national title and significant roster turnover, the team faces a critical question: will they rebuild or reload efficiently? With both coordinators departing, the spring practices will assess the capabilities of new players and how they adapt to their upgraded roles in Columbus.
Penn State
Drew Allar enters his sophomore year with heightened expectations as Penn State aims to consolidate their position as title contenders. With key player retention and transfer upgrades, this spring will be vital for Allar to form connections with new receivers and enhance his performances in clutch scenarios.
Purdue
After a disappointing 2024 season, Purdue looks to revitalize under new head coach Barry Odom. The scope for improvement is vast; therefore, spring practices will be essential for assessing how the team can overcome their struggles and establish a stronger presence in the competitive Big Ten landscape.
Rutgers
Despite losing standout running back Kyle Monangai, Rutgers returns a plethora of offensive talent, suggesting improvement is possible. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis is set to build upon last season’s success, and if the Scarlet Knights can enhance their scoring efficiency, they could surprise many in the upcoming season.
UCLA
Transitioning into a new offensive era, UCLA has appointed Tino Sunseri as their offensive coordinator in pursuit of greater productivity. With a new starting quarterback expected in Joey Aguilar, all eyes will be on how this new arrangement impacts UCLA’s scoring after a lackluster showing last season.
USC
Following a significant performance boost on defense in 2024, USC continues working to solidify its lines of scrimmage through the portal. With new additions and further development expected this spring, the Trojans are determined to enhance their competitiveness in the ever-challenging landscape of the Big Ten.
Washington
As Demond Williams Jr. steps into a leadership role at quarterback, Washington anticipates a shift in their offensive dynamics. Williams’ dual-threat capability brings new potential, and with heightened expectations for 2025, early spring performances will be critical in determining the Huskies’ trajectory moving forward.
Wisconsin
Luke Fickell’s ongoing overhaul at Wisconsin introduces yet another offensive coordinator in Jeff Grimes, indicating a desire to return to traditional strength in running. With significant personnel changes among players, the spring will be pivotal for establishing what a revamped Badgers offense will resemble this season.