Preseason All-Big Ten teams: Which star quarterback gets the first-team nod?
The landscape of Big Ten football continues to shift as the league enters the upcoming season with its deepest quarterback talent pool in memory. Since 2019, the conference has seen six first-round picks at the position, and current projections suggest the trend remains strong. Julian Sayin of Ohio State leads the preseason All-Big Ten first team, following a record-setting performance where he completed 77 percent of his passes. Sayin edges out strong contenders like Dante Moore and Jayden Maiava to claim the top spot.
The roster includes standout talent across all units, emphasizing the high level of competition within the conference. Running back Antwan Raymond of Rutgers earns a place after a productive season, alongside Ohio State’s Bo Jackson. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who holds the nation’s top marks for receiving yards and touchdowns over the last two seasons, headlines a receiving corps that also features K.J. Duff and Charlie Becker. The trenches remain a point of strength with returning veterans like Indiana’s Carter Smith and Oregon’s Iapani Laloulu anchoring the offensive line.
Defensive units show similar strength, with Minnesota’s Anthony Smith returning to lead a group that also highlights Oregon’s A’Mauri Washington and Indiana’s Tyrique Tucker. The linebacker corps reflects the physical nature of the conference, with Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones expected to maintain the defensive intensity that defined Indiana’s recent national championship run. Ohio State’s Payton Pierce adds to a group of young, high-impact players stepping into larger roles this year.
Specialists round out the selection, with Indiana kicker Nico Radicic and Washington punter Hunter Green recognized for their consistency. As teams prepare for kickoff, these selections provide a preview of the athletes expected to drive the conference's performance throughout the season. With the quality of depth across every position, the coming months promise competitive matchups and significant individual milestones as players compete for end-of-year honors.