Way-too-early rankings of Big Ten defensive units ahead of the 2024 season

Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, 28, celebrates a defensive stop against Hawaii during the first half.
Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, 28, celebrates a defensive stop against Hawaii during the first half. | =Chris Pietsch/The Register-Guard / USA
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The Oregon Ducks have been rebranding themselves as a defensive juggernaut since Dan Lanning took over as head coach.

Before planting roots in Eugene, Lanning was the defensive coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs under Kirby Smart.

Since taking over the Oregon program, the Ducks’ head coach has beefed up the defensive unit with his incessant recruiting and infectious personality.

As the Ducks prepare for the Big Ten and hope to dominate their opponents on the field, where does Oregon’s defense stand amongst the conference?

Once again, the Boilermakers find themselves at the bottom of Big Ten power rankings for the upcoming season.

Purdue has struggled to maintain a cohesive defensive unit over the years and that was no different this offseason.

The Boilermakers have to play Oregon, Ohio State, and Penn State this season and will most definitely struggle against their conference opponents.

Schedule

Schedule