The Big Ten is now the big 18. In a watershed moment for the league, traditional West Coast powers Oregon, Washington, USC and UCLA will make their debuts in the Big Ten after bolting from the Pac-12.
Their mettle will be put to the test.
Michigan defeated the Huskies to win the national championship last season. Penn State could field its most talented squad in years. Ohio State is as loaded as any team in college football.
Others, including Iowa, with a revamped offense; Nebraska, under second-year head coach Matt Rhule; and Rutgers, Wisconsin and Maryland; have reason for optimism.