Big Ten: Best teams by position

Week 5 of the Big Ten is here and it’s time to rank these Big Ten schools by their positions.

Quarterback: Oregon Ducks

One of the newest Big Ten schools has the best quarterback in the conference in Dillon Gabriel.

The sixth-year player who transferred from Oklahoma fits perfectly with Ducks offensive coordinator Will Stein.

With the Ducks looking to make a run at the Big Ten crown and beyond, their veteran signal-caller will play a big role in that.

Running Back: Penn State Nittany Lions

I don’t think this is a question here. Penn State has two talented and dynamic running backs who are one of the best duos in the nation.

Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen combine their power and speed to be the flashiest tailbacks in the Big Ten.

Singleton has been efficient so far, averaging 8.5 yards per carry.

Allen is yet to find paydirt, but I have no doubts he will find it sooner rather than later.

This duo can finally get Penn State over the hump and make the playoff, especially considering the new format.

Wide Receiver: Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State has always produced great receivers, and they certainly have not failed at that aspect yet.

The Buckeyes receiving core consists of impressive freshman Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate.

Smith has been really impressive out of the gate, producing 281 receiving yards to go along with four touchdowns.

This receiving core makes Kansas State transfer Will Howard’s life easy and also makes them the best in the Big Ten.

Tight End: Michigan Wolverines

Surprisingly Iowa is not on this ranking, but Colston Loveland is the best tight end in this conference.

The junior has compiled stellar performances the past two weeks and has looked impressive against tough defenses so far.

Loveland has produced good numbers for a tight end. Averaging 9.8 yards a catch to go along with 187 yards and a touchdown.

Despite the Jim Harbaugh departure, Michigan continues to still reel in great offensive talent.

Offensive Line: Oregon Ducks

A big reason why Oregon has the best quarterback in the conference is because they also have the best offensive line.

Oregon was tasked to replace key starters from 2023, as well as the departure of the offensive line coach Adrian Klemm.

The Ducks have plenty of talent at the position still. Including players like Iapani Laloulu, Matthew Bedford, and Ajani Cornelius.

This offensive line as well as a reliable quarterback at the helm for the Ducks can produce elite levels of offense, as well as a deep playoff run come January.

Defense: Ohio State Buckeyes

Defense wins championships, and that is what Ryan Day and the Buckeyes want to achieve with this stacked group of defenders.

As far as the defensive line goes, they have talent all around with Jack Sawyer and Ty Hamilton. Two stalwart seniors for the Buckeyes.

The secondary is just as good. Having one of the best safety duos in the nation let alone Big Ten. Caleb Downs and Lathan Ransom have been great so far.

In general, Ohio State has dominated the Big Ten in defensive stats. Leading the conference with yards per game (180.0) and points allowed (20).

Ohio State looks ready to pounce on any foe this season, and it will start with their formidable defense.

Ben Barker is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please emailbsb5566@psu.edu.