Main Story: The Big Ten is considering an NFL-style scheduling model, potentially starting in 2028, that would use teams’ prior-season standings to set many conference matchups while preserving rivalry games. The change is being discussed alongside potential playoff expansion and efforts to create more compelling games for TV.

Yes, But

The proposal is still under discussion, not a settled plan. The Big Ten’s 2027 schedule rotation is expected to remain unchanged, and no future scheduling changes are guaranteed.

State of Play
  • The Big Ten is weighing a standings-based schedule, with rivalry games protected.
  • Conference leaders are also discussing more valuable Big Ten–SEC nonconference matchups across competitive tiers.
  • Leaders cite transfer-portal and NIL changes, greater parity, and a larger playoff as reasons to rethink scheduling.
What’s Next

Talks will continue, with 2028 identified as a possible starting point for a new Big Ten model. The proposal’s timing and details remain uncertain.

Bottom Line

The Big Ten is exploring a schedule that could make future games more competitive and valuable for television—but the current idea is a discussion, not a commitment.