The Big Ten has entered a golden era in college football, producing three consecutive national champions over the past three seasons. After Michigan’s triumph in 2023, Ohio State’s victory in 2024, and Indiana’s stunning run to the title in 2025, the conference is once again packed with playoff contenders and national championship hopefuls heading into 2026.

The 2026 Big Ten Championship Game is scheduled for December 5 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, but reaching that stage will be a formidable challenge. With several top teams facing brutal schedules, the race for the conference crown is wide open.

Can Indiana solidify their status as the team to beat? Will Ohio State avenge their loss in last year’s title game? Or can Oregon reclaim the dominance they showed two seasons ago? Here’s an early look at the 2026 Big Ten title odds from DraftKings Sportsbook as of May 11.

2026 Big Ten Conference Championship Winner

• Ohio State: +180
• Indiana: +250
• Oregon: +260
• USC: +1400
• Michigan: +1500
• Penn State: +2000
• Washington: +2500
• Iowa: +6000
• Illinois: +10000
• Nebraska: +12000
• Wisconsin: +15000
• UCLA: +20000
• Minnesota: +30000
• Northwestern: +50000
• Michigan State: +50000
• Maryland: +50000
• Rutgers: +100000
• Purdue: +100000

The Favorites

Ohio State opens as the +180 favorite, followed closely by defending champion Indiana at +250. The Buckeyes haven’t won the Big Ten title since 2020, despite claiming the national championship in 2024. They return quarterback Julian Sayin and superstar wide receiver Jeremiah Smith—two of the best players in college football—along with four starting offensive linemen and running back Bo Jackson.

Indiana, meanwhile, added former TCU quarterback Josh Hoover through the transfer portal to replace Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. While losing the No. 1 overall NFL draft pick is a significant blow, the Hoosiers remain a powerhouse as long as head coach Curt Cignetti is leading the charge.

Best Bet

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Oregon (+260) might be flying under the radar amid the Ohio State and Indiana hype. The Ducks have lost only three games over the past two seasons, all against eventual national champions. With quarterback Dante Moore and a deep, talented roster featuring Dakorien Moore, Jeremiah McClellan, Jordon Davison, and others, Oregon could have the most complete team in the Big Ten.

Longshot Pick

UCLA at +20000 is an intriguing flier. The Bruins landed one of the hottest names in the transfer portal and boast a roster that could surprise in a wide-open conference.