Big Ten Football: Post-spring power rankings heading into 2022

7. Minnesota

You have to admire what P.J. Fleck has built at Minnesota. The Golden Gophers won the Big Ten West two years ago and after a 3-4 season during COVID, they bounced back and won nine games last season including a 6-3 mark in the Big Ten.

A loss to Bowling Green was a low point last year and cost Minnesota a second 10-win season in three years, but don’t count out the Gophers in the Big Ten West this season. Tanner Morgan is back for another season as the starting QB and he’s among the best QBs in the league.

Mo Ibrahim will also be back from injury and he’s one of the best running backs in the Big Ten, and with Chris Autman-Bell at receiver, the offense is going to be legit. The defense will be the determining factor in how high the Gophers can go in 2022.

6. Iowa

The Hawkeyes are probably the most underappreciated Big Ten football program but the defending Big Ten West champs are fresh off another 10-win season under Kirk Ferentz, who does nothing but win consistently and beat his rivals (Iowa State and Nebraska).

Yet, the Hawkeyes are limited. Spencer Petras isn’t an elite QB and while he’s won plenty of games, an upgrade is needed, although a clear upgrade isn’t available.

The Hawkeyes churn out elite offensive lineman, can usually run the ball well, and have a solid defense. I expect that again in 2022, but I also expect a different Big Ten West champion.