In the mega-expanded Big Ten, having an elite mind on the sidelines is the ultimate difference between contending for a national championship and scrambling for bowl eligibility. USA Today ran a comprehensive audit to rank every single Big Ten head coach heading into the 2026 season. From Curt Cignetti crowning an incredible national title run in Bloomington to top Ryan Day and Dan Lanning, to blockbuster moves like Kyle Whittingham taking over Michigan and Matt Campbell landing at Penn State, we break down the entire 18-team hierarchy. Check out our complete tactical breakdown to see where your favorite team's head coach lands entering 2026.

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ESPN Predicts Final Record for All 18 Big Ten Teams Right Now: Going Into Week 9

As kickoff for the 2026 college football season arrives, USA TODAY Sports power ranked the ten head coaches under the most pressure in the country. With high expectations, NIL investments, and 12-team playoff urgency taking over Saturdays, patience across the nation has hit an all-time low. From Florida State's Mike Norvell and Wisconsin's Luke Fickell leading the list to UNC's Bill Belichick, USC's Lincoln Riley, and Mississippi State's Jeff Lebby navigating high-stakes seasons, we break down every head coach's job security and expert quotes. Check out our full 10-coach hot seat rankings.

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Jayden Maiava is an 88-1 Heisman long shot, but wins over Ohio State, Indiana, and UCLA could boost his stock as USC navigates a brutal late-season schedule.

Jayden Maiava’s USC Heisman Odds Face Tough Upcoming Tests

Despite losing Julian Sayin, Ohio State remains a top national title contender as betting markets weigh its deep roster against a chaotic field of rivals.

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View the profile of Maryland Terrapins LB Carlton Smith on SportsGrid. Get the latest news, stats, player prop picks, related players, and more on SportsGrid.com.

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#32 · MD · LB

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Carlton Smith is a LB for the Maryland Terrapins in the NCAAF.

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Carlton Smith

#32 · MD · LB

HT/WT

6’1”, 222 lbs

Birthplace

Norfolk, VA, USA

Class

Sophomore

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