The Big Ten Conference has always been one of the strongest in college football. Due to its competitive nature, identifying the top five Big Ten coaches who have the potential to make waves next season can be challenging.
That said, we have some proven, playoff-winning coaches who are always in the conversation as elite leaders in the Big Ten. Their teams also had the highest number of players drafted into the NFL this year, showing their impact goes beyond just wins and losses. At the same time, some rising and unproven names bring fresh energy to the field.
Top 5 Big Ten Coaches to Make College Football Waves in 2025
Ryan Day, Ohio State Buckeyes
Fresh off leading Ohio State to a national championship in 2024, Ryan Day is in a prime position to dominate again. And for those who don’t know, 17 individual Ohio State players were selected in this year’s NFL Draft and signed to pro teams.
That number says everything. Whether they win the championship next year or not, Ohio State is the Big Ten’s top favorite. That also makes Ryan Day one of the most dangerous coaches in the Big Ten.
James Franklin, Penn State Nittany Lions
Despite criticism for his struggles against Ohio State and Michigan, James Franklin enters his 12th season as Penn State’s head coach with a strong overall record of 125-57 and a 101-42 mark in Big Ten play. Given the record, his success can’t be overlooked. Even USA Today ranks him second in their best-to-worst standings.
Having already led his team to the semifinals, many believe Franklin could take them all the way next season. If he keeps up this momentum, that reach is highly possible, and Penn State could become a consistent playoff contender.
Dan Lanning, Oregon Ducks
After transitioning Oregon into the Big Ten, Dan Lanning enters his fourth season as head coach with an overall record of 35-6. His 2024 season was historic, as Oregon finished undefeated in the regular season before falling in the Rose Bowl to Ohio State.
If he maintains his .854 winning percentage, he could reshape the Big Ten’s playoff hierarchy and establish Oregon as a national powerhouse.
Lincoln Riley, USC Trojans
Entering his fourth season at USC, Lincoln Riley holds an overall record of 81-24, including 26-14. While his debut season was impressive with an 11-3 record, his recent results have been filled with struggles.
However, his reputation lies in his ability to cultivate exceptional Heisman Trophy winners. It will be interesting to see if that talent helps him turn the Trojans into a playoff disruptor this season.
Matt Rhule, Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska has been working hard to return to national relevance, and Matt Rhule is steadily building that momentum with everyone’s support.
At Temple and Baylor, Rhule turned struggling teams into winners. Now, he’s aiming to do the same at Nebraska, a program that was once a powerhouse but has recently faced challenges.
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Entering his third season at Nebraska, Rhule holds a coaching record of 59-56, including 12-13 with the Huskers. While that record isn’t overly impressive, Nebraska made its first bowl game in eight years last season, which is a big step forward.
This shows hope is alive, and Rhule is progressing with the team. While it may take more time to see the full results, his efforts so far easily place him among the top five coaches to watch.
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