Ranking all 18 Big Ten offensive lines heading into 2025

The trenches. It’s where championships are truly won, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Big Ten Conference. As the league expands to an unprecedented 18 teams in 2025, the quality of offensive line play will be more critical than ever. With new powerhouses like Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA joining the fray, the physicality and strategic depth required to dominate up front will define contenders. Assessing these units for the upcoming season involves a complex blend of returning starters, recruiting prowess, coaching continuity, and the inherent development cycles within each program. The margin for error will shrink, making a dominant offensive line the ultimate differentiator in a conference brimming with defensive talent.

Looking ahead to 2025, several programs are poised to field elite offensive line units. Ohio State, perennially recruiting at an elite level, consistently reloads its trenches with top-tier talent, often seeing players develop into NFL-ready prospects under their rigorous system. Expect them to once again boast a formidable group capable of opening lanes for their dynamic skill players and protecting their quarterback. Similarly, Oregon, known for its physical brand of football, brings a veteran-laden and well-coached unit from the Pac-12 that should immediately challenge for the conference's top spot. Their blend of experience and athleticism will be a significant asset. While Michigan might see some departures after a successful run, their sustained recruiting success and developmental pipeline under their established coaching staff suggest they will quickly replenish their ranks with high-ceiling prospects, ensuring continued strength up front.