USA Today Network writers pick Wisconsin Badgers to finish sixth in Big Ten in 2025-26

Kalen DeBoer, the head coach of Alabama, has made headlines by ranking among the highest-paid coaches in college football, according to the USA TODAY Sports salaries database. This recognition not only highlights his successful coaching career but also reflects the increasing financial investments in college football programs. As schools compete for top talent, the salaries of coaches are becoming a significant part of the conversation around the sport.

This Saturday, Ohio State and Illinois, both ranked in the top 25, will clash in a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup. It's the 104th meeting between these two teams, and Ohio State has dominated recently, winning the last nine encounters. This game is significant not just for the standings but also for the storied rivalry and the Illibuck trophy at stake, making it a must-watch for college football fans.

The Big Ten Conference is set to enhance its visibility in the 2025-26 season by streaming over 75 men's and women's basketball games exclusively on Peacock. This move not only provides fans with more access to their favorite teams but also highlights the growing trend of sports streaming, making it easier for viewers to catch all the action from the regular season and early rounds of the Big Ten Tournament.

The Florida Gators are making a comeback in college football, as they show improvement in the latest USA TODAY Sports rerank after their victory against Texas in Week 6. This upward trend is significant as it reflects the team's hard work and potential to regain a top position in the rankings, which could boost their confidence and fan support.

In 2025, the financial implications of coaching buyouts in the Big Ten conference are coming into focus. This article breaks down the costs associated with terminating current coaches' contracts, providing insights into how much each school would need to invest to make a change. Understanding these buyout figures is crucial for fans and administrators alike, as they reflect not only the financial health of the programs but also the strategic decisions schools may face in the competitive landscape of college football.

Wisconsin's head coach Luke Fickell has been ranked No. 21 in USA TODAY's latest college football head coach salary database. This ranking highlights the financial landscape of college football coaching, showcasing how competitive salaries have become in the sport. Understanding these rankings is important for fans and analysts alike, as they reflect not only the value placed on coaching talent but also the financial commitments schools are willing to make to secure top-tier leadership.

In 2025, the Big Ten football coaching salaries reveal a mix of high earners and surprising bargains. This ranking not only highlights the financial landscape of college football but also sparks discussions about the value of coaching talent in a competitive environment. Understanding these salaries is crucial for fans and stakeholders as it reflects the investment schools are making in their athletic programs.

Wisconsin basketball star guard John Blackwell has been recognized with preseason All-Big Ten honors, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential for the upcoming season. This recognition not only boosts his profile but also raises expectations for the Wisconsin team, making fans excited about what’s to come.

Savion Hiter, a highly regarded running back from Michigan, has made headlines by being named to USA TODAY's All-USA Watchlist for the 2025 season. This recognition highlights his exceptional talent and potential as he prepares for a promising future in football. Being on this watchlist not only boosts his profile but also places him among the elite players to watch in the coming years, making it an exciting time for both Hiter and Michigan fans.

Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz is uncertain about the starting quarterback Mark Gronowski as the team prepares to face Wisconsin after a close loss to Indiana. This matchup is crucial for the Hawkeyes as they aim to recover and improve their season standing in the competitive Big Ten conference. Fans are eager to see how the team will adjust and whether Gronowski will take the field against a tough opponent.

This week, the preseason All-Big Ten team was announced, and notably, no Spartans made the cut. This absence raises concerns among fans and analysts about the team's prospects for the upcoming season, as recognition on such lists often reflects a team's strength and potential. The lack of representation could impact team morale and recruitment efforts, making it a significant topic for Michigan State supporters.

Micah's predictions for Week 6 in the Big Ten turned out to be quite surprising, as the outcomes of the games significantly altered the landscape of the conference. This week was marked by unexpected results that have implications for team standings and future matchups, making it a pivotal moment in the season.

The New York Yankees are making headlines as Paul Goldschmidt is set to start in Game 4 of the AL Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, replacing Ben Rice. This decision comes after a thrilling comeback in Game 3, where the Yankees overcame a 6-1 deficit to win 9-6. Goldschmidt's experience and skill could be crucial for the Yankees as they aim to advance in the playoffs, making this a pivotal moment for the team and its fans.

Rob Gronkowski, the former New England Patriots star, recently praised quarterback Drake Maye for his impressive performance and shared strategies on how defenses might contain him. In a discussion on the show 'Up & Adams,' Gronkowski analyzed Maye's playing style, highlighting the challenges he poses for opponents. This insight is significant as it not only showcases Maye's potential but also reflects Gronkowski's expertise in the game, making it a valuable perspective for fans and analysts alike.

Analyst Wendell Ferreira has come to the defense of Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, countering the narrative that he should be fired. Using key statistics, Ferreira highlights LaFleur's effectiveness and urges fans to recognize his contributions. This discussion is significant as it reflects the ongoing debate among fans about coaching performance and the expectations placed on leaders in high-stakes sports environments.

The NCAA Division I Administrative Committee has approved a new winter transfer portal window for college football athletes, allowing them to enter the portal during specific dates. This change is significant as it provides athletes with more flexibility and opportunities to find new teams, which can enhance their college football careers and overall experience.

The Dallas Cowboys are optimistic about CeeDee Lamb's potential return from an ankle injury just in time for their Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. This update is significant as Lamb is a crucial player for the Cowboys' offense, and his presence could greatly enhance their chances of securing a win. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his return might impact the game.

Collin Morikawa recently addressed the fan behavior during the Ryder Cup, clarifying that his earlier call for 'absolute chaos' was not meant to incite negative actions. He emphasized that the outcome of the event was not what he intended, highlighting the importance of sportsmanship and respectful fan engagement. This discussion is significant as it reflects the balance athletes must maintain between encouraging enthusiasm and ensuring a positive atmosphere at sporting events.