Illinois is favored to win Big Ten, Ohio State picked eighth

The Illinois Fighting Illini have been voted the favorites to win the Big Ten in SB Nation's preseason poll following a strong previous season, where they reached the Final Four. Illinois earned eight first-place votes and returns key players including Andrej Stojakovic and David Mirkovic. Michigan State was selected to finish second, with Jeremy Fears named Preseason Big Ten Player of the Year. Defending champions Michigan are in third despite roster changes, while Ohio State is projected to finish eighth for the second consecutive year. The Buckeyes will adapt without recently departed Bruce Thornton, relying on returners John Mobley Jr. and Amare Bynum, along with freshman Anthony Thompson.

• 1:31 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois favorites, Ohio State once again picked 8th in SB Nation preseason Big Ten poll