Delving into the aesthetic intricacies of college football, and specifically Big Ten football logos, let’s give a shout out to those symbols that grace the midfield and the helmets of our favorite Big Ten Conference teams. Beyond the hard hits, touchdowns, and the roaring crowds, we’re investigating the lesser-acknowledged heroes of the college football world – the logos.
For this battle, we took all 14 Big Ten teams and randomly pitted them against each other. Some battles were very close while others were easy to call.
Top 5 SEC Logos
Big Ten Football Logo Wars
Michigan vs Ohio State
They hate each on the field. They hate each other off of it. So let’s pit them in a logo battle.
Starting in the East, the Michigan ‘Block M’ has arguably established itself as one of the most instantly recognizable logos nationwide in any sport. Its clean lines, bold, solid color, and symmetrical design has made it a classic.
Yet, the Ohio State’s ‘Block O’ might have an argument for East supremacy. Its uncomplicated, sleek design signifies not only the initial of their University but also encapsulates the unity and the circle of trust in the team.
Edge: Michigan
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Minnesota vs Iowa
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Shifting westward, there is a certain primal energy exuding from the Minnesota ‘Goldy Gopher.’ The furry maroon and gold mascot dons a cheerful grin, which optimizes simplicity, elegance while boasting a touch of nature.
Its counterpart would have to be the Iowa ‘Tigerhawk,’ a fierce, dynamic symbol that hits hard with its black and gold contrast.
Edge: Iowa
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“These symbols represent far more than just a brand – they’re a rallying cry, a point of unity, and a source of pride.”
Penn State vs Wisconsin
On one hand, you have the age-old, familiar Penn State ‘Nittany Lion,’ which embodies the tradition of one of college football’s most storied teams.
On the other hand, the Wisconsin ‘Motion W’ presents a modern, innovative visage with its wavy lines, giving a visual representation of moving forward, just as their team intends on the field.
Edge: Penn State
Purdue vs Indiana
Make no mistake, simplicity is not synonymous with boring. The Purdue ‘Boilermaker Special’ and Indiana ‘IU Trident’ continue to captivate fans with their classic yet timeless appeal. They have retained their gridiron glory through the test of time. Until 2012, that is. The current Purdue logo is a type ‘P’ without the train.
Edge: Indiana
Northwestern vs Illinois
Both hailing from the Land of Lincoln, the Illinois ‘Block I’ and the Northwestern ‘Wildcat’ stand as outliers for their state-specific content and fierce depictions. The two logos illustrate raw strength and determination that is synonymous with their respective university’s football teams.
Edge: Northwestern
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“Logos are the university’s face to the world – they carry tradition, power, and the university’s entire story.”
Maryland vs. Michigan State
If we’re going purely on merit, Maryland’s Testudo logo is fantastic. Having gone through changes over the years, the turtle has remained. According to the school, it represents strength, courage, and tenacity.
But then you have Michigan State’s Spartan logo. I mean, a Spartan helm as your logo is pretty cool! With the green and white color scheme, it’s hard not to love this one.
Edge: Michigan State
Rutgers vs. Nebraska
Rutgers has their Scarlet Knight, and it doesn’t get much cooler than that. The red-caped knight wielding a sword doubling as a “t” is pretty slick. That logo was replaced though, with the “R” logo, which the team now uses. Give me the knight logo back, please.
Other than for a brief period in the 90s and early 00s, Nebraska’s “N” logo has been steadily used by the team. One of the most identifiable in college football, its’ classic, offering a college-like font.
Edge: Draw
Indeed, as we await the upcoming games and the flood of touchdowns they bring, the captivating dance of colors and design that symbolize the Big Ten will indeed continue to steal the show on helmets, flags, shirts, and hearts of fans nationwide.