Devy Conference Review: Big Ten

With four teams in the College Football Playoff – not one of them being the defending national champions – the expanded Big Ten is in a good place. Only the SEC can rival the league’s resources, and it shows on the field and in recruiting, where the conference is as strong as ever.

With blue blood programs abound and some of the nation’s best coaches in place, it is no surprise the league is rife with devy talent. Some of the best are outlined below.

What Went Right

Jeremiah Smith’s Stardom

Though he was widely regarded as the nation’s top recruit out of high school in 2024, we were unsure as to how Smith would fare as a true freshman. Ohio State is a tough place to crack the depth chart, and we have seen plenty of gifted receivers bide their time before breaking out in Columbus.

It turns out, no maturing was required. Smith was a superstar from day one, pacing the Buckeyes in receiving yardage (1,037) and touchdowns (12). Despite having just turned 19 in November, Smith is one of the nation’s best receivers.