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Cherry Blossom Festival off to a rainy but active start

WILKES-BARRE — The Cherry Blossom Festival in Kirby Park kicked off Friday night, with amusement rides and carnival games being set up for public interaction. It was just a preview of the full festivities — including music and dozens of food vendors — which will begin on Saturday. Though the rain fell steadily in […]

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WILKES-BARRE — The Cherry Blossom Festival in Kirby Park kicked off Friday night, with amusement rides and carnival games being set up for public interaction. It was just a preview of the full festivities — including music and dozens of food vendors — which will begin on Saturday.

Though the rain fell steadily in the early evening, the crowd was building and the workers were in full force.

A man named Sebastian was helping his friend operate an airsoft target shooting game, and it was his first time doing so in a Northeast Pennsylvania carnival atmosphere. He was instantly complimentary of the experience.

“So far, it seems really nice,” Sebastian said of the festival. “You all have a really nice park.”

Torrey O’Brien was operating a different game across the parking lot from Sebastian, but it wasn’t his first time at Kirby Park.

“Yesterday, when we were setting up, there was definitely a lot more people in the park than usual when we set up,” he said.

And then there was Jennifer Flick, another experienced game operator who represents a familiar face to those who make their way to a lot of the spring and summer events in Luzerne County.

Flick said she is worried about the weekend weather but was still looking forward to everything the Cherry Blossom Festival has to offer. It’s a needed relief, she said, as the temperature becomes more fair and people start to leave their homes.

“Tonight, even with this little bit of rain, it feels really nice out here,” Flick said. “I look forward to trying to get away from the game and going down and listening to some of the music and stuff, and trying different food.”

Saturday event lineup

• Northeast Region Special Olympics Pennsylvania’s Cherry Blossom 5K Walk or Run will kick off the day. Registration is from 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Fun Run starts at 10 a.m. For information, visit specialolympicspa.org.

• Live entertainment at the Martz Pavilion will begin with a 10 a.m. celebration of World Tai Chi Day.

• Tommy Guns Band will perform from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

• Daddy-O & the Sax Maniacs will perform from 4 to 7 p.m.

Sunday event lineup

• Wyoming Valley Striders 50th Annual Cherry Blossom 5-Mile Run begins at 9 a.m. Visit www.wyomingvalleystriders.com for information.

• Chase Who? will perform from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

• The Traveling Wilkes-Barreans will perform from 4 to 7 p.m.

Amusement rides

• Huey’s Amusements will have family-friendly rides in the Kirby Park parking lot.

• Amusement ride tickets on Saturday and Sunday are $1.50 each, $15 for 12 tickets, and $25 for 24 tickets; $40 for 48 tickets, and $75 for 96.

A variety of food and retail vendors will also be on hand both days.



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Men’s Soccer Announces Members of Class of 2029

By: Rebecca Osowski Story Links HANOVER, N.H. – On Monday, Bobby Clark Head Coach of Men’s Soccer Bo Oshoniyi announced the program’s incoming class, welcoming the members of the class of 2029.   “It’s an honor to welcome this year’s incoming class to the Dartmouth Men’s Soccer family. This group represents […]

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HANOVER, N.H. – On Monday, Bobby Clark Head Coach of Men’s Soccer Bo Oshoniyi announced the program’s incoming class, welcoming the members of the class of 2029.
 
“It’s an honor to welcome this year’s incoming class to the Dartmouth Men’s Soccer family. This group represents a special blend of talent, work ethic, and character that aligns perfectly with the values of our program,” Oshoniyi said. “They’ve each distinguished themselves not only through their ability on the field but also through their leadership, humility, and commitment to growth off the field. We’re incredibly excited about this group—not only for the impact they can make right away, but for the foundation they help build for our future. They have what it takes to thrive in the Ivy League environment—competitively, academically, and personally—and we’re looking forward to the journey ahead.”
 
Below is the full list of the Class of 2029 in numerical order.
 
#0 TJ Jeffreys
Naples, Florida | Orlando City SC | Goalkeeper

Personal: Jeffreys is the son of Timothy and Joann. He enjoys bouldering and classic cars in his free time.

Athletic Achievements: As a U15, Jeffreys played with Weston U16, winning the MLS Next National Championship. He also played up when he was called into Orlando City U17 as a U16. Jeffreys made the 2021-22 Top 10 Orlando City Prospects list and signed an amateur contract with Orlando City B of the MLS Next Pro League, while also being selected for the Orlando City MLS first team training squad. Jeffreys also spends his time coaching, serving as a youth goalkeeper coach for Orlando City, holding his early stage coaching license.

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth because it provides all the tools I need to succeed both in my sport and in college. The staff and facilities leaves me no excuses and I’ll be in the best environment to compete at the highest level in athletics and academics.”

Hear from Oshoniyi: “TJ is a talented goalkeeper with experience at the professional level through Orlando City B, TJ brings a commanding presence, sharp instincts, and a high level of composure to our back line. His development in a professional environment has prepared him well for the demands of Division I soccer, and we’re confident he’ll make an immediate impact both on and off the field. We’re thrilled to add his leadership and work ethic to our squad in Hanover.”

 

 

#3 Daniel Carey-Evans

Cambridge, England | Cambridge United | Center Back

Personal: Carey-Evans is the son of Richard and Maria and has two siblings, Ruben and Sara. He grew up in Spain before moving to the U.K. when he was ten. In his free time, Carey-Evans enjoys reading and listening to music.

Athletic Achievements: He has been a member of Cambridge United since he was 12, attending three Walkes International Team camps and playing in the annual Cymru Cup at the U15s. Carey Evans also played on scholarship for Cambridge United, reaching the FA Youth Cup. He made his first-team debut in the 2023-24 season.

Academic Achievements: Carey-Evans was named the National Extension College Student of the Year.

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth because it’s one of the few places where I can pursue both athletics and a world-class education without compromise. What set Dartmouth apart was my conversations with Bo – his honesty, competitiveness, and clear vision for the program made it feel like the kind of environment where I’d be pushed to grow both on and off the pitch.”

Hear from Oshoniyi: “Daniel is a commanding center back whose physical presence, aerial dominance, and intelligent defensive positioning set him apart. Standing tall at the heart of the back line, he brings a composed, no-nonsense style of defending that has been honed through years of high-level competition overseas. We’re excited to welcome his international experience, leadership qualities, and winning mentality to Dartmouth.”

 

 

 

#8 Olly Spicer

Buckinghamshire, England | Slough Town | Attacking Midfielder

Personal: Spicer is the son of Angela and Paul and has one brother, James. He enjoys playing pool and cricket as well as fishing in his free time.

Why Dartmouth: “After knowing I wanted to go to the U.S. for college soccer, I wanted to find the school that had both strong academics, and a very good soccer department. I was lucky enough to be put in contact with Dartmouth when I was 15 or 16, as it seemed to be the perfect match. It was not until after my visit I understood that the Dartmouth not only had both of these, but an overwhelming sense of community, which I really liked too.”

Hear from Oshoniyi: “Olly brings creativity, flair, and a high soccer IQ to the heart of the pitch. His vision and technical ability allow him to unlock defenses, while his confidence on the ball and attacking instincts make him a constant threat in the final third. Olly’s international experience and competitive mentality will add a valuable dimension to our midfield, and we’re looking forward to the energy and quality he’ll bring to our program.”

 

 

#13 Benny Rolla-Mullis

Ann Arbor, Michigan | Tampa Bay United | Center Back

 

Personal: Rolla-Mullis is the son of Merrill Mullis and Liz Rolla. He has one brother, Max. His dad, Merrill, played volleyball at the University of Illinois, winning the Big 10 Championship in 1992. While at Dartmouth, Rolla-Mullis hopes to major in economics.

 

Athletic Achievements: In 2025, Rolla-Mullis trained with the Tampa Bay Rowdies USL Championship team. He also played for the Tampa Bay United, a team that reached the 2024 U17 MLS Next Cup quarterfinal. In 2022, Rolla-Mullis won the 2022 U15 USYS National Championship with the Michigan Tigers. He was also a basketball player in high school. Rolla-Mullis also played in preseason games with the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

 

Academic Achievements: In high school, Rolla-Mullis was a member of the National Honor Society as well as the Berkeley Prep Headmaster’s List.

 

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth because I connected with the coaching staff and wanted to attend a school with high level academics.”

 

Hear from Oshoniyi: “Bennett comes from Tampa Bay United, the same club that Trenton Blake (2nd Team All – Ivy, 2nd Team All- Region) came from and is teammates with Noah Sams. Bennett is a physically gifted defender that has all the tools to make an immediate impact in our backline. We are excited to work with him on his decision-making skills and defensive positioning. We feel that he has a huge upside and are looking forward to seeing him develop into the player that he wants to be.”

 

 

#14 Noah Sams

Tampa, Florida | Tampa Bay United | Midfielder

 

Personal: Sams is the son of Monica and Andrew and has one older brother, Jacob, who plays soccer at Colby Sawyer. His dad, Andrew, was a collegiate rower at Georgetown. While at Dartmouth, Sams hopes to major in economics and finance and is a fan of Chelsea.

 

Athletic Achievements: He was the captain of TBU MLS Next.

 

Academic Achievements: Sams was a member of the National Honors Society, the Cum Laude Society, a Headmaster Scholar and earned a certificate of Biliteracy at Berkeley Preparatory School. He also served as the president of the Marine Biology Club and an officer in the Spanish Club.

 

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth because of the academic rigor and the tight knit community.”

 

Hear from Oshoniyi: “Noah is a central midfielder that can play both sides of the ball. His technical ability allows him to get out of tight spaces effectively. He has a great engine which allows him to get around the field defensively and allows him to find pockets to receive the ball. He comes from Tampa Bay United, the same club that Trenton Blake (2nd Team All – Ivy, 2nd Team All- Region) came from!  With these experiences at TBU, we think Noah can come in and make an immediate impact to our roster.”

 

 

#22 Hudson Kohler

Woodside, California | San Jose Earthquakes | Right Back

 

Personal: Kohler is the son of Devon and Will and has two siblings, Charlotte and Layne. In his free time, he loves to fish and golf. At Dartmouth, Kohler hopes to major in finance.

 

Athletic Achievements: He finished third in the GA Cup with the San Jose Earthquakes.

 

Academic Achievements: Kohler was a member of the honor roll in high school.

 

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth for the community and the campus.”

 

Hear from Oshoniyi: “Hudson is a dynamic and physical right back from the San Jose Earthquakes academy. Hudson combines strength, speed, and relentless work rate with a sharp tactical mind. His experience in the MLS Next system has shaped him into a highly competitive, two-way defender who thrives in transition and embraces big moments. Hudson’s drive and professionalism make him a perfect fit for our culture, and we can’t wait to see him make his mark in Hanover.”

 

#30 Ben Bilden

New Canaan, Connecticut | Beachside SC MLS Next | Striker

 

Why Dartmouth: “I chose Dartmouth because of the tight-knit community feel on campus, the combination of high-level academics and athletics, and the support I felt from the coaching staff throughout the recruiting process.”

 

Hear from Oshoniyi: “We are really excited to add Ben Bilden to our attacking core!  He is coming to Dartmouth from MLSNext Beachside Soccer Club where he has been the leading goal scorer for his team the past two seasons. Ben has the ability to play as a 9 or 10 and will be an asset to us on both sides of the ball. He has a relentless work rate and combines that with an ability to score goals. He has been coached by Mickey Kydes (MLS Veteran) at Beachside and thinks that he is college ready.”

 

 

 

 

 



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Olivia Dunne’s Custom Game Day Outfit for Paul Skenes Is a Total Moment

Olivia Dunne traveled up to the Midwest to cheer on LSU this past weekend at the Men’s College World Series. And while her boyfriend of nearly two years, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, was not playing, she still found the opportunity to support him with her ‘fit. The two athletes met during their days at […]

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Olivia Dunne traveled up to the Midwest to cheer on LSU this past weekend at the Men’s College World Series. And while her boyfriend of nearly two years, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, was not playing, she still found the opportunity to support him with her ‘fit.

The two athletes met during their days at LSU, where the three-time SI Swimsuit model competed on the women’s gymnastics team, while Skenes played on the baseball team. After concluding her collegiate gymnastics career earlier this year, the 22-year-old is in a new chapter of life, but that doesn’t mean she can’t make time to cheer on LSU—or Skenes in the process.

On Saturday, June 14, Dunne took to social media to share snaps from LSU’s game against Arkansas at the Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebr., which they won. Taking the trip with some friends from college, the New Jersey native went all out for the exciting day, rocking a custom cropped jersey with Skenes’s name and number on the back.

Incorporating both LSU and Pittsburgh, Dunne’s top included Skenes’s alma mater and his current MLB team. She paired the awesome jersey with high-waisted light-wash jeans and tortoiseshell sunglasses, effortlessly pulling off the perfect WAG look for game day. “party in the front business in the back [saluting emoji],” she wrote over a selfie shared on her Instagram story.

After LSU’s win on Saturday, Dunne shared another peek at her game day look, seeing her cheer with her arms up at the field while writing, “I am so happy geaux tigers [tiger emoji].”

This fun fashion moment takes us back to June 2023 at the College World Series when Dunne first sparked romance rumors with Skenes, rocking his number while cheering in the stands.

The heartfelt callback is proof that the pair is definitely going strong, even as their lives change in adulthood. Skenes completed his collegiate baseball career in 2023 and was drafted by the Pirates in the first overall selection, going on to be named the NL Rookie of the Year. Dunne has continued to support her boyfriend as she continued her collegiate gymnastics career with her fifth and final year with the Tigers. She’s kept busy since retiring from the sport this year, landing the cover of SI Swimsuit and scoring impressive partnerships.

This is a new era for Dunne—but it won’t be totally different. She still has Skenes by her side for support and vice versa.





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Rob Kearney Promoted to Director of Athletics at AIC

Story Links SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – American International College (AIC) has named Rob Kearney, MS, ATC, LAT, to the position of director of athletics effective July 7, 2025. Kearney brings more than a decade of athletic training and leadership experience to this role and will oversee the College’s portfolio of NCAA Division […]

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – American International College (AIC) has named Rob Kearney, MS, ATC, LAT, to the position of director of athletics effective July 7, 2025. Kearney brings more than a decade of athletic training and leadership experience to this role and will oversee the College’s portfolio of NCAA Division II athletic programs.
 

“Rob has already made a significant impact in his time at AIC, and his energy and innovative approach will be invaluable to this role,” said AIC President Nicolle Cestero. “His perspective on athletic administration, strong relationships with coaches, and the trust he has built with our student-athletes will bring both stability and renewed direction to AIC Athletics.”
 

The appointment follows Kearney’s prior tenure as Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine and Performance, in which he oversaw a transformational restructuring of the department and rebuilt all aspects of the College’s Athletic Training and Strength and Conditioning programs.
 

“I am humbled and honored to be selected as the Director of Athletics here at AIC. Over the past year I have been increasingly amazed at the culture, community, and passion within the department.” said Kearney. “I am eager to begin this journey and lead AIC Athletics with passion, excitement, and a vision of success forward to continue to grow the legacy of the Yellow Jackets.”
 

Prior to arriving at AIC, Kearney served as an athletic trainer at Springfield Central High School and was head athletic trainer for the men’s club ice hockey program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst from 2014-2024. He has held roles at a number of local institutions including the Williston Northampton School, Deerfield Academy, and Palmer Public Schools. Kearney and his husband Joey also own and operate CrossFit Iron Legacy in East Longmeadow, MA.
 

Beyond his experience in athletic training and coaching, Kearney’s record includes a fifteen-year career of professional competition: In 2023, he finished third in the America’s Strongest Man competition and has a personal record of 961 pounds in the deadlift. He has competed in the World’s Strongest Man competition five times and the Arnold Strongman Classic three times. In 2020 he was awarded the title of “Pound for Pound Strongest Man in the World” by Official Strongman.
 

Kearney currently serves on the Executive Board of the OUT Foundation and previously was the Massachusetts State Representative for the National Athletic Trainers’ Association’s (NATA) LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee. He holds a Master of Science in Advanced Athletic Training with a concentration in Athletic Rehabilitation and a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Springfield College and is a Massachusetts Licensed Athletic Trainer.

Release provided by AIC athletics.

ABOUT THE NE10
The NE10 is an association of 10 diverse institutions serving student-athletes across 24 NCAA Division II sports. Together we build brilliant futures by embracing the journey of every student-athlete.

Each year, 4,500 of those student-athletes compete in conference championships in 24 sports, making the NE10 the largest DII conference in the country in terms of sport sponsorship. Leading the way in the classroom, on the field and within the community, the NE10 is proud of its comprehensive program and the experience it provides student-athletes.
 
Fans can subscribe via this link to follow NE10 NOW on FloSports this season.  The partnership between the NE10 and FloSports works to provide funds back to the athletic departments of the Northeast-10 Conference in support of student-athletes while promoting the league on a national platform.



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Luke Clanton’s journey to the PGA TOUR – The Daily Aztec

At just three years old, a young Luke Clanton picked up a golf club for the first time. David, his father, would take him out to the driving range and teach him the game of golf. What once started as a fun bonding experience between him and his son turned into a […]

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At just three years old, a young Luke Clanton picked up a golf club for the first time.

David, his father, would take him out to the driving range and teach him the game of golf. What once started as a fun bonding experience between him and his son turned into a true passion that led Luke and his family down a road filled with opportunity — eventually leading to his professional debut on June 5 at the RBC Canadian Open.

“If you were to ask me way back when we started this journey, I would’ve always told you then, I thought he’s always going to make it,” David said. “Because that’s just what dads say or dads do. But I really believed it.”

Despite not playing in a tournament until he turned seven, Rhonda, his mother, claimed he was always good at golf, even as a young child.

David worked with him throughout his childhood, essentially being his first golf coach.

“We came up with so many cool ideas and sayings to get us on the right mind frame when it’d come to certain shots, and that was a game changer to us,” David said. “One of my favorite sayings was ‘a purpose in mind’ shot… It’s just automatic, he knows he’s going to be able to make it.”

Although David was passionate about improving Luke’s game, he was always considerate of his son’s perspective. The last thing he wanted to do was push him too far and ruin his love for the game.

“I was always worried about burning him out,” David said. “I’d always be careful. I’d always ask. And if he’s always fired up, he’s ready and fired…Stayed till dark, sometimes had a small light out there just doing some extra shots.”

This fire led Luke to victories at such young ages.

He won the U.S. Kids World Championship at age 11 and his first American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) tournament at age 13. By this point, his mother already had a feeling that he wanted to get to the professional level.

“We have recordings of him at the age of 13 saying we’re going to be out here,” Rhonda said. “So he was pretty sure that’s what he wanted to do… In his head, he was going to be a pro.”

For high school, Clanton attended American Heritage in Florida, where he grew up. In just those four years, he led his team to three state championships.

Eventually, this success led to him earning a spot on Florida State University’s golf team.

Through his first two years as a collegiate golfer, the achievements continued to present themselves. He played nine straight rounds of par or less as a freshman and became the first Seminole to win three consecutive tournaments during his sophomore year. He also set the single-season record for lowest scoring average at 69.33.

However, Luke’s sophomore season finished in devastating fashion after coming up just short of a national championship. FSU fell to Auburn, 3-2, but Luke was the deciding match. He ended up losing on hole 17 in match play, sealing the deal for the Tigers.

But this setback might’ve been the best thing to happen to him.

In the summer of 2024, he qualified for the U.S. Open as an amateur and made the cut, which was the first professional tournament he played in. He also played in four other PGA tournaments ahead of his third year at FSU.

“All these PGA events have been sick,” David said. “I mean to be able to see him compete and be at that level, and looks like he already belongs; it’s so humbling.”

Luke Clanton looks to sink a putt on the green at La Costa. Photo Courtesy of FSU Athletics.

This summer of high-level experience gave him all the necessary tools to take a major leap in his mentality.

“People always ask what happened this last year,” Rhonda said. “And for me, his mental game became so much stronger…He’s at peace. He grew in his faith, which gives you a calmness inside you.”

His mother made it clear that Luke believes “golf is what you do, not you who are,” which has allowed him to play the game freely without fear of failure. With this mindset, he found himself playing in eight PGA events and becoming the second FSU player to win the Ben Hogan Award.

But the most notable achievement came when Luke earned his PGA TOUR Card at the Cognizant Classic on Feb. 28. He was a part of the PGA TOUR University Accelerated program, where he earned enough points (20) to turn pro.

“I’m grateful that God [is] blessing us to be able to see it and be there, it’s so wonderful…I think it’s less than 1% to get on a tour,” David said. “And we did in his junior year, which is unbelievable.”

Despite all the experience he gained, and having a “rookie year without being a rookie,” the real Luke Clanton in his parents’ eyes has not much to do with golf at all.

“He’s genuinely a good person,” David said emotionally. “I’d like to think that I had something to do with that.”

The journey that he’s taken to build his faith and mental space has allowed him to be a humble young man that any parent would be proud of.

“He’s a good human…He’s not just a great player,” Rhonda said. “He’s a really great person. Cares deeply, loves deeply. The five of us are pretty tight-knit as a family…That’s what I want people to know.”

Luke Clanton stares down an approach shot, trying to set himself up for a good birdie look. Photo Courtesy of FSU Athletics.

He has two older sisters, Ray and Abby, completing the five individuals that make up this strong Christian family.

“We’ve always carried that wherever we go, and it’s just really nice to see that Luke was able to hang on to that,” David said about their faith. “He even does prayer groups with Scottie [Scheffler].”

The combination of faith and a strong mindset has led him to the highest point in his golf journey, officially being a PGA pro. However, he’d be going into his final collegiate golf tournament with his team at Omni La Costa, in Carlsbad, for the 2025 NCAA Championships.

On May 26, the Seminoles failed to make the top eight by one stroke, allowing Ole Miss to slide into match play. Clanton didn’t have his best in the final round of stroke play and finished with a 76, 4-over par.

Although he was disappointed in his individual performance, what matters most to him is not showing up for his team one last time. Despite his college career coming to a close, the journey for Luke Clanton is only getting started.

“He loves the team. He’s always loved it,” Rhonda said. “It is the ending and the beginning all in the same time.”

Just a week and a half after the college season ended, Clanton arrived in Toronto for his professional debut at the RBC Canadian Open. He was fortunate enough to be paired with the two biggest names in the field for this event, No. 2 Rory McIlroy and No. 6 Ludvig Åberg, according to the Official World Golf Ranking.

For most of the fans following this group, Clanton put on a respectable performance, finishing 1-under-par through the first two rounds. It wouldn’t be enough to make the cut, but it’s just the start of a long career for the experienced rookie.

“We’re proud of what he’s succeeded in and how he’s played…but I’m just proud of what a good human being he is,” Rhonda said.



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ESPN predicts win-loss record for every Big Ten Football team in 2025

ESPN predicted the win-loss record for every Big Ten football ahead of the 2025 college football season. The network used its FPI metrics to determine the win-loss record. The usual suspects are near the top of the Big Ten of course. But other than the big three this year, the conference could get random and […]

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ESPN predicted the win-loss record for every Big Ten football ahead of the 2025 college football season. The network used its FPI metrics to determine the win-loss record.

The usual suspects are near the top of the Big Ten of course. But other than the big three this year, the conference could get random and maybe have some surprises!

Without further ado, let’s dive into ESPN’s FPI metrics to predict the win-loss record for every Big Ten team. We start with the defending national champions.

Ohio State has a 10.4 projection from ESPN’s FPI, which puts them at the top of the Big Ten. The biggest games of the year happen to be in Week 1 and then in November.

Could they go undefeated? Sure. But Texas and Penn Sate are certainly the toughest games on the schedule. Also Michigan because well, they’ve lost four in a row to the Wolverines. But the Buckeyes could be the favorite every week.

Penn State head coach James Franklin (Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images)
(Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images)

Penn State is only slightly behind Ohio State in the Big Ten with 10.2 projected wins per the FPI. The Buckeyes routinely have the Nittany Lions’ number so that could be a factor as well.

Penn State has to host Oregon and go to Ohio State this year. Not only that, there’s a tricky road game against Iowa so there are some landmines on this 2025 schedule.

Oregon is projected right at 10 wins, but at 2.4 losses compared to 2.2 for Penn State. After winning the Big Ten last year, it’ll be hard for the Ducks to repeat.

Make no mistake, they’re a contender for the conference and College Football Playoff. But they have to go to Penn State and Iowa. Some tricky spots, but Dan Lanning’s crew could be just as good.

Michigan is the first Big Ten team on this list that is not projected to get double digit wins. ESPN’s FPI is 8.4 projected wins, just ahead of USC.

The Wolverines have to go to Oklahoma, Nebraska, USC and rival Michigan State. Undefeated season? Good luck. The good news is Michigan does host Ohio State this season, looking for five wins in a row.

USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley watches game action against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
(Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)

The pressure index on Lincoln Riley has to be high at this point right? He has to deliver on the investment. Good luck in this year’s Big Ten. However, the Trojans have the fifth best win-loss record projection in ESPN’s FPI.

USC has to go to Illinois, Notre Dame, Nebraska and Oregon for difficult road trips. Michigan also comes to town in a toss up game.

Matt Rhule can have Nebraska take the next step with a solid season. But ESPN’s FPI has the Huskers at 7.5 projected wins, not quite Big Ten championship material.

They have to host Michigan and hit the road against Penn State, among some other tough games. Heck, Iowa is still in that final week! But after an expected 3-0 start against non-conference opponents, perhaps Nebraska can surprise some people.

The Hoosiers are bound for a step back based on ESPN’s FPI projections. After nearly getting to the Big Ten Championship last year, Indiana is projected at 7.5 wins, the same as Nebraska.

They have to go to Iowa and Oregon in back to back games. Not to mention Maryland and Penn State both on the road. Sure, they’ll likely be favored over the Terrapins, but the schedule doesn’t do Indiana any favors. Oh yeah, Illinois comes to town too, although ESPN isn’t as high on them this year.

Jedd Fisch, Washington
Jedd Fisch, Washington – © Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Washington’s 7-5 record is a little less stabilized in ESPN’s FPI with 7.1 projected wins. They’ll be a middle of the pack Big Ten team per the metric.

They’ll have to play rival Washington State on the road, host Ohio State, go to Michigan, host Illinois and host Oregon. There are some tough opponents on this schedule. Heck, even Rutgers might give them fits after the Huskies lost in Piscataway last season.

Minnesota is still bowl eligible based on the projected wins, coming in at 6.9. But it’s not quite seven wins, although that’s possible.

PJ Fleck and crew had to go to Cal for a non-conference game, so it’s a long trip. Plus, the Gophers go to Ohio State, Iowa and Oregon. The team should be competitive as usual, but it’ll be a difficult schedule in the Big Ten.

Illinois won 10 games last year, including the Citrus Bowl. Now, ESPN’s FPI only has them in the six-win range, which could be seven.

At 6.8 projected wins, it’s doable. The Illini have road games at Indiana, Washington and Wisconsin, but the schedule doesn’t seem too difficult. USC and Ohio State have to come to Bloomington, as well as Rutgers. Maybe eight or more wins are on the docket.

Iowa Ferentz
Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea, Imagn Images.

The Hawkeyes have a projected win total of 6.2 per the ESPN FPI. This a model Big Ten program in terms of competitive consistency, but that might be all that’s possible this year.

Iowa has to head to Rutgers, Wisconsin, USC and Nebraska this year. Not only that, Penn State and Oregon are coming to town!

Maryland is on the cusp of six wins, in terms of the projection, as ESPN’s FPI has them at 5.9. The Terrapins aren’t projected to do a ton in the Big Ten this year, but there’s always some surprises.

Mike Locksley and crew have to go to Wisconsin, Rutgers and Illinois, so the road trips aren’t insanely difficult. But, Nebraska, Indiana and Michigan come to town. Perhaps this team might be better off than the projections say throughout the Big Ten.

Rutgers practicality underachieved last year at 7-6, missing out on a few one-score games. The schedule sets up for a successful first half, maybe 5-1 or 6-0 if there’s some luck involved.

But this is the Big Ten and ESPN’s FPI struggles to find six automatic wins. The back half of the shield includes Oregon and Penn State at home, as well as road games with Illinois and Ohio State.

Wisconsin HC Luke Fickell
Mark Hoffman | Milwaukee Journal Sentinel | USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Wisconsin is slightly behind Rutgers with 5.8 projected wins, compared to 5.9 for the Scarlet Knights. The Badgers should get off to a good start but have to go to Tuscaloosa to face Alabama after getting waxed last year.

Wisconsin also has Big Ten opponents including Michigan, Ohio State and Oregon, with the Wolverines and Ducks being the host schools this year. It doesn’t get any easier for Luke Fickell in 2025.

Year 2 for DeShaun Foster is going to be tough with some of these teams on the schedule. At 5.4 projected wins, a bowl game might be more out of reach compared to a couple of other Big Ten teams.

UCLA hosts Utah to open the season and then will see conference games at home vs. Penn State, Nebraska and Washington at some point. Not only that, they have to go to Ohio State and rival USC.

Michigan State could see improvements in Year 2 with Jonathan Smith at the helm. But ESPN’s FPI has them at 5.2 projected wins.

The Big Ten schedule is difficult with road games at USC, Nebraska and Iowa, to name a few. The Spartans get to host rival Michigan though, which could help in the second half of the season.

Northwestern head coach David Braun was promoted to full-time head coach in 2023. (Photo by David Banks-Imagn Images)
(Photo by David Banks-Imagn Images)

David Braun pushed all of the right buttons in 2023 following a quick takeover for Pat Fitzgerald. Last year didn’t breed the same success though.

As far as ESPN’s FPI is concerned, the Wildcats are barely above four wins at 4.1 in their projection. The Wildcats have Big Ten road games at Penn State, Nebraska, USC and Illinois, mostly in the second half of the season.

Purdue will have the biggest rebuilding job in the Big Ten as Barry Odom tries to resurrect the Boilermakers. The FPI only has them at 3.2 projected wins, so this could be disastrous.

Purdue has to go to Notre Dame, Michigan and Washington, to name a few. They also have to host Ohio State, Rutgers, Illinois and USC and that’s not even including rival Indiana on November 28th!



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2025 Fall Schedules Released – Union College Athletics

Story Links SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – The Union College Department of Athletics has unveiled its schedules for the 2025 fall season.   Twelve Union fall teams are set to begin play in the fall 2025 trimester, beginning on Friday, August 29 when seven teams get the season underway. The women’s and men’s soccer teams […]

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SCHENECTADY, N.Y. – The Union College Department of Athletics has unveiled its schedules for the 2025 fall season.
 
Twelve Union fall teams are set to begin play in the fall 2025 trimester, beginning on Friday, August 29 when seven teams get the season underway. The women’s and men’s soccer teams start off with a home doubleheader, with the women hosting Worcester Polytechnic Institute at 4 p.m. and the men taking on SUNY Oneonta at 7 p.m. at College Park Field. In addition, field hockey (at VTSU Castleton), women’s volleyball (at Haverford Invitational), women’s golf (at Ithaca College) and men’s and women’s cross country (at Vassar College) start their seasons on Friday as well.

Women’s volleyball begins its home slate on Friday, September 5 with a 6 p.m. match against Russell Sage College, and two more teams start their seasons the following day on September 6: the football team heads to Susquehanna University for a noon kickoff and the women’s tennis team hosts day one of the annual Union College Invitational beginning at 9 a.m. Field hockey also has its home opener on that Saturday when Russell Sage comes to Schenectady for a 1 p.m. matchup. The men’s tennis team gets its season going on Saturday, September 13 with day one of the St. Lawrence University Fall Classic in Canton.

Three teams will appear in front of the home crowd for the first time on Saturday, September 20, as football welcomes Morrisville State College to Frank Bailey Field for a 1 p.m. kickoff, men’s tennis hosts day one of the Garnet Charger Invitational at the Union Tennis Courts, and the women’s golf team hosts day one of the Union Fall Invitational at Mohawk Golf Club.

The men’s and women’s crew teams will begin their abbreviated fall schedule on Sunday, September 28 on their home river, taking part in the Head of the Mohawk Regatta.

Homecoming and Family Weekend (October 10-11) will once again feature several Union fall teams playing at home, kicking off with football at 1 p.m. against Hobart College. Other home games that day include women’s soccer against Rochester Institute of Technology, women’s volleyball versus Ithaca College, women’s hockey taking on the University of New Hampshire, and field hockey hosting William Smith College.

 

Schedule links:

Football

Men’s and Women’s Crew

Men’s and Women’s Cross Country

Field Hockey

Women’s Golf

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Soccer

Men’s Tennis

Women’s Tennis

Women’s Volleyball

 

Dates and times for all Union schedules are subject to change. For the most up-to-date schedule information for all 26 Union College varsity sports, follow Union Athletics on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for team-specific or department-wide news releases to receive Union Athletics news directly in your email.

 





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