Insights from Big Ten Football Media Days

Indiana Coach Curt Cignetti Takes the Stage

Curt Cignetti, Indiana’s football coach, concluded the Big Ten media days at the Hilton Chicago. As he addressed a packed room, he joked, “Everybody ready to get out of here and get home?” The upcoming month will be busy for Big Ten coaches with training camps as they prepare for the season starting on August 29 for some FBS teams. During the three-day event, coaches engaged in numerous interviews discussing team prospects, conference state, and broader topics, including Cignetti’s achievements with the national champion Hoosiers.

Illinois Coach Impressed by Indiana’s Rise

Illinois’ Bret Bielema highlighted Indiana’s rapid transformation from a Big Ten underdog to a 16-0 national champion as a remarkable story. Coaches praised Cignetti and his players, acknowledging the role of the transfer portal, revenue sharing, and NIL compensation in college football’s dynamics. Purdue’s Barry Odom remarked on the accelerated pace brought by these changes and emphasized that successful models vary by team. Bielema admired Indiana’s journey, stating, “I like those kinds of things. They did what others doubted.”

Michigan’s Kyle Whittingham Seeks Stability

Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham aims to end ongoing scandals and restore stability. Previously at Utah for 21 years, Whittingham now leads Michigan, navigating past issues including coach Sherrone Moore’s dismissal. He expressed readiness to focus on football and academics, moving past the drama, and commended his players’ hard work over seven months.

High Hopes for Michigan’s Quarterback

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood, a top recruit, faced high expectations as a freshman. While completing 202 of 335 passes for 2,428 yards, Underwood aims to improve. Whittingham lauded Underwood’s physicality and foresaw a bright future, saying, “He has a very high ceiling.”

Spartans’ New Leader

Michigan State’s new coach Pat Fitzgerald has named Alessio Milivojevic as the starting quarterback. Fitzgerald, familiar with Milivojevic’s resilience, praised his leadership. Milivojevic threw for 1,267 yards and ten touchdowns in 2025, earning his role as the team’s leader.

Northwestern’s Optimism

Northwestern Coach David Braun responded to Fitzgerald’s comment about Michigan State’s home-field advantage by highlighting Northwestern’s new $875 million Ryan Field. Opened on October 2, players expressed their enthusiasm for the state-of-the-art facility during media days.

Illinois Stadium’s New Feature

At Illinois’ Memorial Stadium, a 17,300-square-foot video board now stands in the south end zone. With plans to unveil the board by showing “Air Bud,” Athletic Director Josh Whitman emphasized its impact on attention, wind, and noise. Coach Bret Bielema described the upgraded experience as “crazy.”

Ohio State’s Quarterback Changes

Ohio State coach Ryan Day anticipates Julian Sayin’s growth as a starting quarterback under former NFL coach Arthur Smith’s guidance. Sayin’s effort has impressed Day, promising potential for the upcoming season.

Big Ten vs. SEC Conference Debate

During the media days, discussions surfaced on Big Ten’s supremacy over SEC. The Big Ten’s recent CFP wins faced critiques from SEC supporters regarding conference depth. Curt Cignetti affirmed Big Ten’s status, highlighting robust teams and challenging environments, stating, “That’s why we’re the best.”