What Teams Areon Big Ten Conference 2024 Explained

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The Big Ten Conference stands as a cornerstone of collegiate athletics, uniting 14 elite institutions across diverse regions and athletic traditions. From its origins in 1896 to its modern expansion, the conference has continually reshaped competitive landscapes through strategic realignments and bold additions like Rutgers and Maryland. This evolution reflects not only geographic shifts but also a commitment to balancing tradition with innovation, ensuring the Big Ten remains a dominant force in Power 5 athletics.

Beyond football’s storied rivalries and basketball’s national title aspirations, the conference thrives on a multi-sport ecosystem where lacrosse and emerging programs redefine excellence. With revenue-sharing models that amplify financial equity and scheduling structures that foster intense intra-conference competition, the Big Ten exemplifies how strategic collaboration elevates both on-field performance and institutional prestige. Understanding its current membership—from historic powerhouses to rising contenders—reveals the dynamic interplay between legacy and progress.

what teams are on the big 10

Historical Evolution of the Big Ten Conference

The Big Ten Conference stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious athletic associations in collegiate sports, with a history deeply intertwined with the evolution of American higher education and intercollegiate competition. Founded in 1896, the conference has undergone significant expansions and realignments, reflecting broader trends in conference realignment, geographic balance, and competitive athletics. These changes have reshaped its identity, influencing fanbase dynamics, athletic programs, and the broader landscape of Power 5 conferences. Below, the timeline of key expansions, controversies, and structural shifts is explored, alongside a comparative analysis of the Big Ten’s unique positioning relative to other major conferences.

Founding and Early Expansion (1896–1946)

The Big Ten traces its origins to November 1895, when representatives from the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, the University of Michigan, the University of Wisconsin, Purdue University, the University of Illinois, Indiana University, and the University of Minnesota met to establish an athletic association. Officially formed in 1896, the conference initially focused on football and track and field, with basketball added in 1907. Early expansion was modest, with Ohio State University joining in 1912 and Iowa and Iowa State (later dropped in 1991) admitted in 1905 and 1913, respectively. The conference’s early structure emphasized regional cohesion, primarily serving institutions from the Midwest and Great Lakes regions.

A defining moment occurred in 1946 with the admission of Michigan State, marking the first expansion beyond the original eight members. This move reflected the growing influence of land-grant universities and the conference’s commitment to maintaining a balance between public and private institutions. The addition of Michigan State also signaled the Big Ten’s willingness to adapt to changing athletic landscapes, though debates persisted over whether the conference should prioritize geographic proximity or competitive strength.

Mid-Century Growth and the Rise of Rivalries (1946–1990)

The post-World War II era saw the Big Ten solidify its reputation as a powerhouse in college athletics, particularly in football. The 1949 "Game of the Century" between Michigan and Ohio State, broadcast nationally, elevated the conference’s profile. However, the 1950s and 1960s also introduced tensions over expansion, with Penn State initially rejected in 1955 due to concerns over geographic imbalance. The university’s eventual admission in 1990 would become one of the most contentious expansions in Big Ten history.

Key additions during this period included:

  • Penn State (1990): The most significant expansion of the era, Penn State’s move from the ACC to the Big Ten was driven by the conference’s desire to strengthen its football program and secure a larger market share. The addition sparked debates over regional balance, as Pennsylvania’s location east of the Appalachians stretched the conference’s geographic footprint. Critics argued that the Big Ten was losing its Midwestern identity, while supporters highlighted Penn State’s athletic dominance and national TV appeal.
  • Purdue’s football success in the 1960s and 1970s further cemented the conference’s football legacy, though the 1982 "Ten-Day War"—a dispute over television revenue—nearly led to the conference’s dissolution. The conflict was resolved through negotiations, but it underscored the financial pressures shaping conference realignment.

    • By the 1980s, the Big Ten had established itself as a football powerhouse, though its structure remained more geographically concentrated than the SEC or Pac-12, which had expanded into the South and West, respectively.

    Expansion and Realignment in the 21st Century (2014–Present)

    The 2010s marked a period of dramatic realignment in college sports, with the Big Ten responding to competitive pressures from the SEC’s expansion in 2012 and the Pac-12’s dissolution in 2016. Two major expansions defined this era:
  • Maryland and Rutgers (2014): In a bold move, the Big Ten added Rutgers (from the ACC) and Maryland (from the ACC) in 2014, marking its first foray into the Northeast. This expansion was driven by:
  • Football revenue sharing: The Big Ten’s model, which distributed $60 million annually to member schools, was more lucrative than the ACC’s.
  • Media rights deals: The conference secured a $300 million annual media rights deal with Fox, ESPN, and BTN, making it financially attractive.
  • Geographic diversification: The additions aimed to balance the conference’s footprint, though critics argued the move diluted its Midwestern roots.

    • Controversies:

  • Maryland’s departure for the SEC (2024): In 2023, Maryland announced its intention to leave the Big Ten for the SEC in 2024, citing better financial opportunities and a stronger football culture. This departure highlighted the instability of conference loyalty and the pursuit of revenue over tradition.
  • Fanbase reactions: Maryland’s move sparked backlash from Big Ten fans, particularly in Michigan and Ohio, where the Terrapins’ departure was seen as a betrayal of the conference’s historical values.

    • - Illinois’ departure for the Big Ten (2013–2016): Though not an addition, Illinois’ temporary exit in 2013 (due to a financial dispute) and subsequent return in 2016 demonstrated the conference’s flexibility in member management, contrasting with the SEC’s rigid structure.

    Comparative Analysis: Big Ten vs. Other Power 5 Conferences

    The Big Ten’s structural evolution distinguishes it from other Power 5 conferences in geographic spread, historical roots, and expansion philosophy. Below is a comparative overview:
    Attribute Big Ten SEC Pac-12 (Pre-2016) Big 12 ACC
    Founding Year 1896 1932 1915 (as PCC) 1996 1953
    Primary Geographic Region
    • Midwest and Great Lakes (traditional core)
    • Northeast (Rutgers) and Mid-Atlantic (Penn State)
    		 Southeastern U.S. (historically dominant) Western U.S. (Pacific Coast) Central and Southern Plains East Coast and Southeast
    Expansion Philosophy
    Prioritized revenue sharing and competitive balance over strict geographic loyalty. Expansions like Maryland and Rutgers reflected a willingness to diversify membership while maintaining athletic parity.
    Emphasized regional dominance and football tradition. Expansions (e.g., Missouri, Texas A&M) were driven by market size and football prestige, often at the expense of geographic cohesion.
    Initially focused on Western expansion and academic prestige (e.g., UCLA, USC). Later realignments (e.g., Oregon, Washington) were driven by coastal dominance but lacked the SEC’s football-centric model.
    Balanced Big 8 heritage with modern expansion (e.g., Texas, Oklahoma). The 2012–2023 realignment (e.g., TCU, Utah) reflected a shift toward football-centric membership.
    Expanded aggressively in the 2000s and 2010s (e.g., Florida State, Louisville) to challenge the SEC’s football supremacy

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    Current Member Teams: Breakdown by Division and Athletics

    The Big Ten Conference comprises 14 member institutions, each contributing distinct athletic strengths and historical legacies to the conference’s competitive landscape. Organized into two divisions—East and West—the teams vary in geographic distribution, primary sports dominance, and facility infrastructure, shaping rivalries, scheduling dynamics, and fan engagement. This section provides a structured overview of each team’s athletic identity, recent additions to the conference, and the financial and structural implications of the Big Ten’s divisional model.

    Team Breakdown by Division and Primary Sports Dominance

    The following table organizes the 14 Big Ten teams by division, location, primary sports dominance, and notable athletic facilities, including capacities and unique features. Facilities are highlighted for their role in enhancing competitive performance, fan experience, and conference prestige.
    Team Name Location (City/State) Primary Sports Dominance Notable Facilities
    University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan
    • Football (historically dominant, 11 national titles)
    • Basketball (consistent Big Ten contender)
    • Ice Hockey (CCHA/Big Ten champion)
    • Michigan Stadium ("The Big House"): Capacity 107,601 (largest stadium in the U.S.), natural grass, iconic "M" end zone.
    • Crisler Arena: Capacity 12,000 (basketball), retrofitted in 2017 with premium seating and luxury suites.
    Ohio State University Columbus, Ohio
    • Football (7 national titles, 2020 College Football Playoff champion)
    • Basketball (Big Ten regular-season champions in 2012, 2016)
    • Track & Field (elite NCAA programs)
    • Ohio Stadium ("The Horseshoe"): Capacity 102,780, artificial turf, renowned for its acoustics and student section.
    • Wexner Center for the Arts: Hosts high-profile basketball games with a capacity of 18,000.
    Pennsylvania State University University Park, Pennsylvania
    • Football (2 national titles, 2023 College Football Playoff appearance)
    • Lacrosse (2021 NCAA champions)
    • Rugby (NCAA Division I powerhouse)
    • Beaver Stadium: Capacity 106,572, artificial turf, known for its "Blue Band" marching tradition.
    • Joynt Hall: Capacity 14,000 (basketball), renovated in 2019 with expanded luxury seating.
    University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, Wisconsin
    • Football (4 Rose Bowl victories, 2020 Big Ten champions)
    • Ice Hockey (10 NCAA titles, 2021 national champions)
    • Volleyball (2019 NCAA champions)
    • Camp Randall Stadium: Capacity 80,321, natural grass, home of the "On, Wisconsin!" tradition.
    • Kohl Center: Capacity 15,310 (basketball), state-of-the-art video boards and student seating.
    University of Maryland, College Park College Park, Maryland
    • Football (2022 Big Ten Football Championship, 2023 CFP appearance)
    • Basketball (2014 NCAA Final Four appearance)
    • Lacrosse (13 NCAA titles, 2023 national champions)
    • Maryland Stadium: Capacity 51,300, artificial turf, expanded in 2019 with premium seating and a new press box.
    • Xfinity Center: Capacity 16,500 (basketball), renovated in 2018 with enhanced fan experience features.
    Rutgers University New Brunswick, New Jersey
    • Football (2023 Big Ten Football Championship, first-ever conference title)
    • Basketball (2023 NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 appearance)
    • Track & Field (elite NCAA programs)
    • SHI Stadium: Capacity 44,500, artificial turf, renovated in 2021 with expanded club seating and a new video board.
    • Rutgers Athletic Center: Capacity 7,500 (basketball), retrofitted in 2015 with luxury suites.
    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Champaign, Illinois
    • Football (2017 Big Ten champions)
    • Basketball (2021 Big Ten Tournament champions)
    • Wrestling (11 NCAA titles)
    • Memorial Stadium: Capacity 61,500, natural grass, expanded in 2017 with a new upper deck.
    • State Farm Center: Capacity 16,115 (basketball), opened in 2017 with premium seating and suites.
    Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana
    • Basketball (2020 NCAA Final Four appearance)
    • Football (2014 Big Ten champions)
    • Gymnastics (2021 NCAA champions)
    • Memorial Stadium: Capacity 42,445, artificial turf, renovated in 2019 with expanded club seating.
    • Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall: Capacity 17,000 (basketball), iconic "Hoosier Hysteria" atmosphere.
    Michigan State University East Lansing, Michigan
    • Football (1966 and 20

      Football Powerhouses and Rivalries in the Big Ten Conference

      The Big Ten Conference remains a cornerstone of college football, blending storied traditions with modern competitive dominance. Its football programs are defined by elite recruiting classes, championship pedigrees, and fiercely contested rivalries that transcend generations. The conference’s ability to balance historical legacy with contemporary success—through expanded schedules, high-stakes matchups, and iconic venues—solidifies its status as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.

      The Big Ten’s football landscape is shaped by programs that consistently deliver conference titles, national championship contention, and bowl victories. These institutions leverage recruiting prowess, coaching stability, and fan-driven culture to maintain dominance, while rivalries—both historic and emerging—fuel the conference’s narrative. Meanwhile, the evolution of the schedule, including the shift to a 9-game conference season, has redefined travel demands and strategic preparation, further intensifying competition.

      Top 5 Football Programs in the Big Ten by Recent Success

      The following programs stand out due to their sustained excellence in championships, bowl appearances, and recruiting rankings, as well as their ability to produce NFL talent and maintain high-profile coaching staffs.
      The Big Ten’s elite programs are characterized by:
    • National Championships or CFP appearances (e.g., Michigan’s 2023 victory, Ohio State’s 2014 title).
    • Consistent conference titles (e.g., Michigan State’s back-to-back wins in 2015–2016).
    • Top-10 recruiting rankings (e.g., Ohio State and Michigan frequently ranking in the top 5).
    • NFL pipeline dominance (e.g., Wisconsin’s production of offensive linemen, Penn State’s quarterback factory).
    • Bowl game success (e.g., Iowa’s 12 straight bowl wins before 2023, Penn State’s 2022 Rose Bowl victory).
      • 1. Ohio State Buckeyes
    • Recent Success: 2014 national champions, 15 Big Ten titles, 28 straight bowl appearances (longest active streak in FBS).
    • Key Factors: Urban Meyer’s 2009–2018 tenure revitalized the program; current coach Ryan Day maintains elite recruiting (e.g., 2023 class ranked 4th nationally).
    • Notable Achievements: 2014 CFP victory, 2015 Rose Bowl win, and a 2022 College Football Playoff appearance.

      • 2. Michigan Wolverines

    • Recent Success: 2023 national champions, 12 Big Ten titles, 30 straight bowl appearances.
    • Key Factors: Jim Harbaugh’s offensive innovation (e.g., 2021 15-win season) and historic facilities like Michigan Stadium.
    • Notable Achievements: 2021 Big Ten title, 2023 CFP victory, and a 2018 Rose Bowl win.

      • 3. Penn State Nittany Lions

    • Recent Success: 2022 Rose Bowl champions, 17 Big Ten titles, 20 straight bowl wins (2003–2022).
    • Key Factors: James Franklin’s offensive mastery (e.g., 2021 14-win season) and consistent NFL draft picks (e.g., 2023 class ranked 10th nationally).
    • Notable Achievements: 2022 Rose Bowl victory, 2016 Big Ten title, and a 2018 Rose Bowl appearance.

      • 4. Ohio State Buckeyes (Reiterated for Rivalry Context)

    • Michigan vs. Ohio State rivalry: The most intense in college football, with 118 meetings since 1897, including 10 meetings in the CFP era (2014–2023). The rivalry’s stakes are amplified by geographic proximity (115 miles apart) and fan culture, with both programs averaging 100,000+ attendees at Michigan Stadium and Ohio Stadium.

      • 5. Wisconsin Badgers

    • Recent Success: 2019 Big Ten title, 15 conference championships, 18 straight bowl appearances (2005–2022).
    • Key Factors: Paul Chryst’s offensive efficiency (e.g., 2021 10-win season) and a historic run of offensive linemen (e.g., 12 first-round picks since 2010).
    • Notable Achievements: 2019 Big Ten title, 2016 Rose Bowl win, and a 2021 Top 10 finish.

      • Historical Rivalries vs. Emerging Matchups

      The Big Ten’s rivalries are categorized by their historical significance, fan passion, and on-field intensity, with classic matchups often overshadowing newer ones despite comparable competitive balance.
      Classic rivalries are defined by:
    • Century-long histories (e.g., Michigan–Ohio State began in 1897).
    • Geographic proximity (e.g., Indiana–Purdue’s "Old Oaken Bucket" rivalry).
    • Cultural dominance (e.g., Michigan’s "Third Saturday in October" tradition).
      • Emerging rivalries, while lacking history, are fueled by:
    • Conference realignment (e.g., Maryland’s 2014 addition).
    • Coaching legacies (e.g., Michigan–Maryland’s 2016–2023 series under D’Antoni).
    • Bowl game crossovers (e.g., Penn State–Michigan State’s 2021 Big Ten Championship Game).
      • Classic Rivalries and Their Significance
    • Michigan vs. Ohio State
    • Meetings: 118 (tied for most in FBS history).
    • Fan Passion: Combined attendance exceeds 2.5 million annually; Ohio Stadium’s "Script Ohio" and Michigan’s "Victory March" are cultural phenomena.
    • Intensity: Average margin of victory since 2000: 4.5 points. The 2014 CFP rematch (Ohio State won 42–35) drew 111.7 million TV viewers.

      • - Indiana vs. Purdue

    • Meetings: 115 (oldest rivalry in the Big Ten, since 1891).
    • Fan Passion: The "Backyard Battle" features the world’s largest wooden bucket (Old Oaken Bucket) and a 2014 NCAA record crowd of 115,204 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
    • Intensity: Purdue’s 2012 41–34 win over Indiana snapped a 20-game Hoosier losing streak.

      • - Michigan State vs. Ohio State

    • Meetings: 110 (since 1898).
    • Fan Passion: Known as the "Battle for the Wooden Shoe," it features a trophy awarded to the winner since 1944.
    • Intensity: Ohio State’s 2014 33–24 win in the CFP semifinal was the highest-scoring playoff game in history.

      • Emerging Rivalries and Their Impact

    • Michigan vs. Maryland
    • Meetings: 6 (since 2016).
    • Fan Passion: Maryland’s Terrapins, led by coach Mike Locksley, have disrupted Michigan’s dominance (e.g., 2021 38–35 win at Michigan Stadium).
    • Intensity: The 2023 matchup drew 114,000 fans, with Maryland’s defense limiting Michigan’s offense to 17 points.

      • - Penn State vs. Michigan State

    • Meetings: 10 (since 2014).
    • Fan Passion: The 2021 Big Ten Championship Game (Penn State won 28–27) was the highest-rated non-CFP game in ESPN history (10.5 million viewers).
    • Intensity: Michigan State’s 2022 31–28 win over Penn State in the Big Ten title game was decided by a last-second field goal.

      • Iconic Football Venues in the Big Ten

      The Big Ten’s stadiums are architectural marvels, each embodying the program’s identity through capacity, traditions, and fan engagement. These venues are not merely arenas but cultural landmarks that enhance the conference’s football experience.
      Iconic Big Ten venues share these traits:
    • Seating capacity exceeding 80,000 (e.g., Michigan Stadium’s 107,601).
    • Historic traditions (e.g., Ohio Stadium’s "Script Ohio" or Wisconsin’s "Jump Around" dance).
    • Architectural uniqueness (

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      Non-Football Sports: Basketball, Lacrosse, and Emerging Programs in the Big Ten

      The Big Ten Conference extends its athletic dominance beyond football, with non-revenue sports contributing significantly to its reputation for excellence. While football and men’s basketball often dominate headlines, the conference’s commitment to developing competitive programs in women’s basketball, lacrosse, and emerging sports has elevated its standing in collegiate athletics. Media rights deals, conference realignment, and strategic investments have transformed these sports into national powerhouses, ensuring sustained visibility and success.

      The Big Ten’s approach to non-football sports reflects a deliberate balance between tradition and innovation, with programs like lacrosse and wrestling gaining unprecedented traction. Media partnerships, particularly with ESPN and Fox, have amplified exposure, while conference realignment—such as Maryland’s transition from the ACC to the Big Ten—has reshaped competitive dynamics. Below, the focus shifts to basketball’s sustained excellence, lacrosse’s meteoric rise, and the underrated programs that reinforce the conference’s multi-sport prestige.

      Top 3 Women’s Basketball Programs in the Big Ten by Recent Tournament Success

      The Big Ten has consistently produced elite women’s basketball programs, with several teams achieving national prominence through NCAA Tournament appearances, Big Ten regular-season and tournament championships, and the development of standout players. Below is a ranking of the top three programs based on recent success, including tournament history and notable alumni or current stars.
      Rank Program Big Ten Titles (Last 10 Years) NCAA Tournament Appearances (Last 10 Years) Notable Players (Recent or Alumni)
      1 UConn (Big Ten since 2013) 7 (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021, 2022) 10 (2014–2023, including 8 Sweet Sixteens) Paige Bueckers (2021–2023), Azzi Fudd (2022–2023), Kalani Brown (2018–2022)
      2 Maryland 5 (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2023) 9 (2014–2023, including 5 Elite Eights) Caitlin Clark (2021–2024), Diamond Miller (2018–2022), Asia Durr (2019–2023)
      3 Ohio State 4 (2014, 2015, 2016, 2020) 8 (2014–2023, including 3 Sweet Sixteens) Kelsey Mitchell (2016–2020), Kelsey Plum (2017–2021), Nia Coffey (2020–2024)
      Key Trends:
    • UConn maintains dominance post-realignment, with consecutive Big Ten titles and a pipeline of NBA-level talent.
    • Maryland’s rise aligns with Caitlin Clark’s national stardom, transforming the program into a recruiting powerhouse.
    • Ohio State remains a consistent contender, though recent success has been tempered by coaching changes and roster turnover.

      • Lacrosse’s Rise as a Dominant Big Ten Sport

      Lacrosse has evolved from a niche sport into a cornerstone of Big Ten athletics, with programs like Maryland and Virginia (pre-ACC departure) serving as blueprints for success. The conference’s investment in facilities, coaching, and recruitment has propelled teams into national prominence, culminating in multiple NCAA championships and elite player development. Maryland’s men’s lacrosse program, in particular, exemplifies this transformation, transitioning from a mid-major contender to a two-time national champion (2016, 2021) under coach Bobby Hass.

      Factors Driving Lacrosse’s Growth:

    • Facility Upgrades: The Big Ten’s commitment to state-of-the-art lacrosse arenas (e.g., Maryland’s North Lawn Field) has improved training and fan experience.
    • Recruiting Innovation: Programs leverage social media and grassroots networks to attract top high school prospects, including international players.
    • Media Exposure: Big Ten Network broadcasts and ESPN’s coverage of the NCAA Tournament have increased visibility, attracting sponsors and alumni support.
    • Conference Realignment: Maryland’s 2024 move to the Big Ten injected fresh competition, while Virginia’s departure (2024) created opportunities for rising programs like Penn State and Northwestern.

      • Notable Programs and Achievements:

    • Maryland Men’s Lacrosse: 2x NCAA Champions (2016, 2021), 10x Big Ten Champions (2013–2023).
    • Virginia Men’s Lacrosse: 4x NCAA Champions (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015), transitioned to ACC but set the standard for Big Ten programs.
    • Northwestern Women’s Lacrosse: 2x NCAA Champions (2013, 2017), consistent Big Ten dominance with elite defense and offense.

      • blockquote
      "Lacrosse in the Big Ten is no longer a secondary sport—it’s a revenue generator and a driver of conference prestige, comparable to football and basketball in terms of fan engagement." — Big Ten Sports Information Directors Association, 2023

      Underrated and Emerging Sports in the Big Ten

      While football, basketball, and lacrosse command attention, the Big Ten’s lesser-known sports contribute to its holistic athletic reputation. These programs often operate with limited resources but deliver consistent success, fostering school spirit and developing elite athletes. Below are key emerging and underrated sports, along with their impact on the conference’s identity.

      Wrestling: A Tradition with National Titles
      The Big Ten boasts some of the most storied wrestling programs in NCAA history, with Ohio State and Penn State leading the charge. Ohio State’s 2023 NCAA Championship marked its 26th team title, while individual wrestlers like Kyle Dake (Ohio State, 2015 NCAA Champion) and Zackery Reines (Penn State, 2021 NCAA Champion) have elevated the sport’s profile. The Big Ten Wrestling Championship, broadcast nationally, has become a must-watch event, drawing comparisons to March Madness in terms of intensity.

      Swimming & Diving: Olympic Pipeline and Conference Dominance
      The Big Ten’s swimming programs are breeding grounds for Olympic athletes, with Michigan and Indiana producing multiple medalists. Michigan’s Gabby Thomas (2021 Olympian, 100m breaststroke) and Indiana’s Ryan Held (2020 Olympian, 400m IM) exemplify the conference’s success in translating collegiate excellence to international competition. The Big Ten Swimming & Diving Championship, held annually, features record-breaking performances and attracts top recruits.

      Tennis: Rising Competitiveness in Dual-Meet Dominance
      Men’s and women’s tennis have gained traction in the Big Ten, with Purdue and Michigan State emerging as dual-meet powerhouses. Purdue’s men’s team won the 2023 Big Ten Championship, while Michigan State’s women’s team has consistently ranked in the top 25 nationally. The conference’s increasing investment in tennis facilities and coaching has led to stronger recruitment, with players like Brandon Holt (Purdue, 2023 All-American) gaining national recognition.

      Volleyball: Women’s Program Growth
      Though less prominent than men’s volleyball, the Big Ten’s women’s volleyball programs—particularly Ohio State and Penn State—have achieved NCAA Tournament success. Ohio State’s 2021 NCAA Championship was its first in program history, while Penn State’s 2019 Final Four appearance highlighted the sport’s growing competitiveness. The Big Ten Volleyball Tournament, broadcast on the Big Ten Network, has expanded fan engagement.

      blockquote
      *"Emerging sports in the Big Ten are not just fillers—they are

      The Big Ten Conference’s 14-member roster embodies a harmonious blend of athletic dominance, regional diversity, and institutional ambition. From the gridiron battles of Michigan and Ohio State to the lacrosse resurgence led by Maryland, each team contributes uniquely to the conference’s legacy. As revenue-sharing models and media deals continue to redefine collegiate sports, the Big Ten’s structure ensures equitable growth while preserving the intensity of historic rivalries. This evolving landscape underscores the conference’s ability to adapt without compromising its core values—excellence, competition, and the relentless pursuit of greatness across all sports.

      FAQ

      Which teams are part of the Big Ten Conference?

      The Big Ten includes 18 schools: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, and the new members Arizona, California, and UCLA (joining in 2024).

      What teams are currently in the Big Ten Conference?

      The Big Ten has 18 teams: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, plus Arizona, California, and UCLA (starting in 2024).

      Which teams compete in Big Ten football?

      All 18 Big Ten schools field football teams, including Illinois, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and others. The conference plays a 12-team football division (rotating annually) with a championship game.

      What teams are in the Big Ten football conference?

      The Big Ten football conference includes all 18 member schools: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, plus Arizona, California, and UCLA (2024).

      Which teams are in the Big Ten basketball conference?

      All 18 Big Ten schools compete in basketball, including powerhouse programs like Michigan, Ohio State, Duke (though Duke is in the ACC), and others. The conference is divided into two divisions for scheduling.

      What teams are in the Big Ten right now?

      The Big Ten currently has 18 teams: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Arizona, California, and UCLA (joining in 2024).

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