Week 3 of the 2025 college football season gave us a sneak peek of what Big Ten conference matchups will look like: tough, hard-nosed football in which every inch is earned.
The Oregon Ducks and USC Trojans learned that this week, as they kicked off their Big Ten schedule with games against the Northwestern Wildcats and Purdue Boilermakers, respectively. While they both came away victorious, it wasn’t without some tough moments that showcased the depth of the conference.
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The Ducks, despite holding a 34-0 lead at one point, didn’t play up to their standards as they began their quest to defend the 2024 Big Ten title. They’ll need to be better if they hope to do so.
Meanwhile, the Ohio State Buckeyes and Penn State Nittany Lions came away with wins of their own, continuing to cement themselves as threats to Oregon’s conference title hopes. The Indiana Hoosiers put together perhaps the best performance of Week 3, blowing out Indiana State and firing on all cylinders on both sides of the ball.
As will soon be realized once conference play is kicked off for each team, the Big Ten is loaded with several elite teams and a whole bunch of above-average squads who could stand to make some noise if things fall their way.
But before we start to think about the entirety of the season, here’s a snapshot of where every team lands in our post Week 3 power rankings.
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18) Purdue Boilermakers (2-1)
Sep 13, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Purdue Boilermakers quarterback Ryan Browne (15) throws a pass during the second half against the USC Trojans at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Game Result: L 33-17 vs. USC
Previous Ranking: 18
What’s Next: @ Notre Dame
Analysis: The Boilermakers put up a solid fight against USC, as they weren’t completely ran off the field thanks to quarterback Ryan Browne’s 305 passing yards. The issue is that he also threw three interceptions, a no-no when trying to beat a more talented team. Despite two wins through three weeks, Purdue stays in the basement as there’s still a real possibility that they won’t win another game.
17) UCLA Bruins (0-3)
Sep 12, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Anthony Woods (6) runs with the ball during the second quarter against the New Mexico Lobos at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Game Result: L 35-10 vs. New Mexico
Previous Ranking: 16
What’s Next: Bye
Analysis: A disastrous 0-2 start to the season became straight up embarrassing for the Bruins, as they lost by four scores to New Mexico at home in the Rose Bowl. The effort clearly isn’t there for head coach DeShaun Foster, who’s seat is becoming increasingly warmer by the week.
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16) Northwestern Wildcats (1-2)
Sep 13, 2025; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Peyton Woodyard (12) tries to tackle Northwestern Wildcats running back Dashun Reeder (24) as he run for a touchdown during the second half at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Game Result: L 34-14 vs. Oregon
Previous Ranking: 17
What’s Next: Bye
Analysis: Though they fell behind 34-0 at one point, that score belied the fact that the Wildcats had success running the ball against the Ducks. In all, their running backs rushed for 192 yards (6.2 yards per carry) and three scores — potentially finding their identity despite the loss.
15) Wisconsin Badgers (2-1)
Sep 13, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) throws the ball during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images
Game Result: L 38-14 vs. Alabama
Previous Ranking: 15
What’s Next: vs. Maryland
Analysis: Wisconsin struggled mightily on both sides of the ball against Alabama, with backup quarterback Danny O’Neil – starting in place of the injured Billy Edwards Jr. – throwing for just 117 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. They had trouble containing an explosive Crimson Tide offense, allowing huge days to quarterback Ty Simpson and wide receiver Ryan Williams.
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14) Michigan State Spartans (3-0)
Michigan State’s Elijah Tau-Tolliver runs for a gain against Youngstown State during the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.
Game Result: W 41-24 vs. Youngstown State
Previous Ranking: 13
What’s Next: @ USC
Analysis: Taking on an FCS opponent in Youngstown State, second-year starting quarterback Aidan Chiles showed his talent in throwing for 270 yards and leading the Spartans with 76 rushing yards. The pass defense needs some work, as they gave up 242 passing yards and had trouble stopping the opposition when it needed to — a potentially major problem as they’re set to take on USC’s aerial attack next week.
13) Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-1)
Sep 13, 2025; Berkeley, California, USA; California Golden Bears defensive back Jasiah Wagoner (8) reaches out to tackle Minnesota Golden Gophers kick returner Koi Perich (3) during the third quarter at California Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images
Game Result: L 27-14 vs. Cal
Previous Ranking: 10
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What’s Next: Bye
Analysis: Star running back Darius Taylor was a late scratch before this game due to a leg injury, leading the Gophers without their best player. They couldn’t quite get their run game going, putting a limit on their offensive output. The defense had trouble making against Cal’s passing attack, surrendering 279 yards and three touchdowns to true freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele.
12) Rutgers Scarlet Knights (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights running back Terrell Mitchell (26) carries the ball against the Norfolk State Spartans during the second half at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 60-10 vs. Norfolk State
Previous Ranking: 14
What’s Next: vs. Iowa
Analysis: Once again, Rutgers displayed an explosive offensive performance in Week 3. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis completed 18 of 26 passes for 309 yards and a touchdown, leading the charge for a balanced Scarlet Knights attack that added 185 rushing yards and three scores on the ground.
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11) Maryland Terrapins (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Maryland Terrapins running back Iverson Howard (24) is tripped up by Towson Tigers defensive back Bryan Lodge (17) in the second half at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 44-17 vs. Towson
Previous Ranking: 12
What’s Next: @ Wisconsin
Analysis: The Terrapins are off to a 3-0 start with true freshman quarterback Malik Washington leading the way, as he passed for 261 yards and a touchdown on Saturday. The defense held Towsen to just one of 13 on third down, a trend that would be very valuable if it continues in conference play.
10) Iowa Hawkeyes (2-1)
Iowa Hawkeyes running back Terrell Washington Jr. (8) carries the ball as Massachusetts Minutemen defensive lineman Erik Hehl (33) defends Sept. 13, 2025 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
Game Result: 47-7 vs. UMass
Previous Ranking: 11
What’s Next: @ Rutgers
Analysis: It took three weeks, but the Hawkeyes finally looked like an average passing offense against UMass. Transfer quarterback Mark Gronowski threw for 179 yards and two touchdowns, both to wide receiver Seth Anderson. If they can build on this performance, Iowa would have a chance to push into the top half of the league in part because of their stout defense.
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9) Washington Huskies (2-0)
Sep 6, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies running back Jonah Coleman (1) returns to the locker room following a victory against the UC Davis Aggies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Game Result: Bye
Previous Ranking: 8
What’s Next: @ Washington State
Analysis: The Huskies were solid through two weeks but dropped a single spot during their bye week due to Michigan seemingly putting it altogether. The Wolverines have also been tested on the road against Oklahoma, showing toughness despite the loss. Washington’s next two weeks will be pivotal, with tests at in-state rival Washington State followed with the biggest game of their season: hosting No. 1 Ohio State.
8) USC Trojans (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; USC Trojans defensive tackle Jamaal Jarrett (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after intercepting it during the second half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 33-17 vs Purdue
Previous Ranking: 6
What’s Next: vs. Michigan State
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Analysis: It wasn’t the best of days for the Trojans against Purdue, as they committed nine penalties for 103 yards and had trouble finishing drives, as they kicked five field goals on the day. A win is a win in the standings, but our power rankings don’t love a shaky victory against the worst team in the conference, causing USC to drop two spots.
7) Michigan Wolverines (2-1)
Sep 13, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) passes in the first half against the Central Michigan Chippewas at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 63-3 vs. Central Michigan
Previous Ranking: 9
What’s Next: @ Nebraska
Analysis: It was the Bryce Underwood show for the Wolverines on Saturday, as the true freshman passer completed 16 of 25 passes for 235 yards with a touchdown and interception apiece. He did damage on the ground as well, rushing for 114 yards and another two scores. With Underwood looking more comfortable by the week, the Wolverines are becoming a team to look out for thanks to a stout defense and talented passer at the helm.
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6) Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers wide receiver Cortez Mills Jr. (19) celebrates after a touchdown against the Houston Christian Huskies during the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 59-7 vs. Houston Christian
Previous Ranking: 7
What’s Next: vs. Michigan
Analysis: The Cornhuskers won in dominant fashion for the second consecutive week, this time rolling Houston Christian by 52 points. It was completely one sided, as Nebraska gave up just 160 total yards and amassed 554 total yards of their own. It was an explosive day for the passing game, as three quarterbacks contributed to a 362-yard, three-touchdown day through the air.
5) Illinois Fighting Illini (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini linebacker Alec Bryant (3) celebrates a sack during the second half against the Western Michigan Broncos at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 38-0 vs. Western Michigan
Previous Ranking: 4
What’s Next: @ Indiana
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Analysis: The Fighting Illini offense had trouble getting off the ground against Western Michigan, managing just 10 points in the first half. They finally got going in the second half, but two straight underwhelming first halves (they led 14-13 at Duke last week at the half) is a concerning trend to keep an eye out for. Head coach Bret Bielema’s squad is sure to make some noise, but gets passed by a team that showcased a higher ceiling and showcased on Friday night.
4) Indiana Hoosiers (3-0)
Sep 12, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers running back Khobie Martin (28) runs for a touchdown during the second half against the Indiana State Sycamores at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 73-0 vs. Indiana State
Previous Ranking: 5
What’s Next: vs. Illinois
Analysis: Everything came together for the Hoosiers against the in-state Sycamores, with quarterback Fernando Mendoza completing 19 of 20 passes for 270 yards and five touchdowns. The ground game was also on point, contributing 301 yards and three scores. It came against a much lesser opponent than they’ll see in the Big Ten, but this game was a sneak peek of Indiana at its best ahead of a pivotal conference matchup with Illinois at home.
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3) Penn State Nittany Lions (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Jahmir Joseph (23) runs the ball into the end zone following an interception during the fourth quarter against the Villanova Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 52-6 vs. Villanova
Previous Ranking: 3
What’s Next: Bye
Analysis: The Nittany Lions cruised to an easy victory as the defense held Villanova to just 179 total yards and intercepted two passes. The offense was no slouch either, totaling 465 yards and putting 52 points on the board led by their running back duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. The two stars combined for 170 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
2) Oregon Ducks (3-0)
Sep 13, 2025; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) runs the ball past Northwestern Wildcats defensive lineman Anto Saka (4) during the first half at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Game Result: W 34-14 vs. Northwestern
Previous Ranking: 2
What’s Next: vs. Oregon State
Analysis: It wasn’t pretty, as the flow of the game was thrown off due to various reasons, but the Ducks managed to notch their first conference victory on Saturday morning. The running back room proved itself as one of, if not the best in the country despite starter Noah Whittington’s absence thanks to Dierre Hill Jr. leading the way with 94 yards and a score on just five carries. Oregon did enough to sustain the second spot, but will need to do more in the coming weeks if they expect to unseat the Buckeyes at No. 1.
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1) Ohio State Buckeyes (3-0)
Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin (10) celebrates a touchdown by wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4) during the second half of the NCAA football game against the Ohio Bobcats at Ohio Stadium on Sept. 13, 2025. Ohio State won 37-9.
Game Result: W 37-9 vs. Ohio
Previous Ranking: 1
What’s Next: Bye
Analysis: The Buckeyes got off to slow start against Ohio but rolled in the second half with quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith connecting on two touchdowns. The defense, one of, if not the best in the nation, held the Bobcats to just 181 yards. It was a nice tune up game before a bye week and Big Ten play starts for Ohio State, who have their sights set on a conference title.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Big Ten Week 3 power rankings: Ducks still No. 2 after road win
