In this episode of The Big Ten Huddle, JR and Zack dive into the latest Big Ten football news and analysis, covering key developments and debates for the 2025 season. Below is a detailed breakdown of the episode, including the full transcript, key topics with timestamps, and additional resources.

Topics Discussed

1. Introduction and Episode Overview (Timestamp: 00:00:01.683 - 00:00:55.378) JR introduces the show with co-host Zack Guggenheim, outlining the episode's topics: Michigan's 2026 game in Germany, Rutgers' recruiting news with Wydeek Collier, the Big Ten's biggest wild card teams, and the conference's desire to eliminate preseason polls. They encourage audience engagement through likes, subscriptions, and comments.
2. Michigan's 2026 Game in Germany (Timestamp: 00:06:50.781 - 00:10:33.836) The hosts discuss Michigan's scheduled game against Western Michigan in Frankfurt, Germany, in 2026, a Week Zero matchup. They highlight the positives, such as the experience for players like German natives Manuel Beigel and Marlon Klein, the recruiting pitch, and the scheduling advantage of a bye week before facing Oklahoma. Initially skeptical, they come around to the idea for its benefits to student-athletes and international exposure. Source: ESPN
3. Rutgers' Wydeek Collier Reclassification (Timestamp: 00:10:59.509 - 00:14:05.346) Rutgers secures a major recruiting win as their top 2026 commit, Wydeek Collier, a 6-foot-6, 215-pound, four-star defensive end ranked No. 92 in the Rivals300, reclassifies to join the 2025 roster. The hosts discuss how this move locks in a high-profile recruit, dodging potential flips to Ohio State or Penn State, and sets Collier up for development in Rutgers' strength program, potentially making him a key contributor by 2026. Source: On3
4. Big Ten's Biggest Wild Cards (Timestamp: 00:05:50.533 - 00:06:09.961, continued in later segment) JR and Zack analyze which Big Ten teams have the widest range of potential outcomes for 2025, such as Michigan State and Rutgers, due to factors like quarterback play, transfers, and schedule difficulty. They mention their upcoming segment on Big Ten standings predictions, where they reveal game-by-game picks. Source: ESPN
5. Big Ten's Push to "Obliterate" Preseason Polls (Timestamp: 00:30:53.632 - 00:44:14.161) The hosts passionately discuss the Big Ten's push, led by coaches and administrators like Tony Petitti, to eliminate preseason polls, inspired by the Big 12's decision. They argue that polls create biased narratives, inflate strength-of-schedule metrics, and unfairly favor conferences like the SEC. Examples like Florida State’s 2024 misranking and Indiana’s tough 2025 schedule highlight the flaws. They advocate for objectivity in rankings and scheduling to level the playing field. Source: CBSSports.comConnect with The Big Ten Huddle Twitter/X: @TheBigTenHuddle Instagram: @TheBigTenHuddle TikTok: @TheBigTenHuddle Subscribe: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Contact: Reach out at jrsrankings@gmail.com for feedback or inquiries. Why Listen? This episode is packed with insights for Big Ten fans, covering everything from bold coaching statements to playoff predictions and recruiting drama. Whether you’re rooting for Minnesota, Northwestern, Wisconsin, Oregon, Washington, or Penn State, JR and Zack deliver expert analysis and lively discussion to keep you informed and entertained. Don’t miss out—subscribe and join the conversation!