The Big Ten boosted its 2026 schedule by aligning with Notre Dame and the SEC’s expansion, gaining top matchups and national exposure.

The Big Ten’s 2026 football schedule benefits from the SEC’s expanded structure and Notre Dame’s continued scheduling autonomy, allowing the conference to secure high-profile matchups and maintain competitive balance. By aligning with Notre Dame’s non-conference commitments and leveraging the SEC’s conference realignment, the Big Ten enhanced its national exposure and scheduling flexibility, giving it a strategic advantage in the evolving landscape of college football.