Introduction
When it comes to college sports, few conferences are as legendary as the Big Ten. With powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin, fans are constantly looking for ways to stay connected to every game and every moment. That’s where Big Ten Network (BTN) and B1G+ come in.
BTN is the official TV channel for the Big Ten Conference, while B1G+ is a streaming platform that gives fans access to events not broadcast on national television. But how do they compare, and which one is right for you? Let’s dive into a detailed review.
What is Big Ten Network (BTN)?
Launched in 2007, Big Ten Network is a dedicated television channel built specifically to showcase Big Ten sports. Created through a partnership between Fox Sports and the Big Ten Conference, BTN has become a cornerstone of college sports broadcasting.
Here’s what BTN offers:
- Live broadcasts of major Big Ten football and basketball games.
- Studio shows with expert analysis and commentary.
- Interviews and features with coaches, athletes, and alumni.
- Documentaries and specials highlighting Big Ten history and traditions.
For fans of college football Saturdays or March Madness basketball, BTN is the go-to channel for keeping up with the biggest games.
What is B1G+?
While BTN focuses on marquee games, B1G+ (formerly BTN Plus) was created as a streaming service to cover the massive number of events that don’t make it to TV.
B1G+ offers:
- Non-televised live games across multiple sports.
- On-demand replays, so you can catch up anytime.
- Coverage of sports that rarely air on TV, such as volleyball, wrestling, baseball, softball, lacrosse, and more.
- Team- or conference-wide access depending on your subscription.
In short, BTN is for the mainstream audience, while B1G+ is for diehard fans who don’t want to miss a single moment of their school’s athletic programs.
Pricing and Subscription Options
BTN:
BTN is available through most cable providers and live TV streaming services, including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV. The price depends on your provider, usually bundled with other sports channels.
B1G+:
B1G+ is a direct subscription service with flexible plans:
- School Pass – Access to all live and on-demand content for one school of your choice. Perfect for alumni and fans who support just one team.
- Conference Pass – Access to content from every Big Ten school. Best for general Big Ten fans.
- Sport-Specific Pass – Access to one sport across the entire conference (for example, wrestling or volleyball).
Pricing typically ranges from $9.95 to $14.95 per month, depending on the package.
Strengths of BTN and B1G+
BTN Strengths:
- Broadcasts the biggest games in football and basketball.
- Professional production quality in HD.
- Available on most TV and streaming platforms.
- Strong commentary and expert analysis.
B1G+ Strengths:
- Covers hundreds of games not shown on TV.
- On-demand replays for maximum convenience.
- Affordable, flexible subscription plans.
- Gives exposure to non-revenue sports and lesser-known athletes.
Weaknesses of BTN and B1G+
BTN Weaknesses:
- Limited to major sports; many games go untelevised.
- Requires a cable or live TV subscription.
- Some marquee games may air on Fox, FS1, or CBS instead of BTN, meaning BTN alone doesn’t cover everything.
B1G+ Weaknesses:
- Streaming quality depends on your internet connection.
- Doesn’t include high-profile football or basketball games (those are on BTN or Fox).
- Some fans feel pricing could be lower if they only want one or two sports.
Who Should Use BTN vs. B1G+?
- BTN is best for casual fans who mainly want to watch football and basketball and don’t mind missing smaller sports. It’s also ideal for those who already have a cable package.
- B1G+ is perfect for diehard fans, students, and families who want to follow their school in every sport, not just the major ones. If you’re a parent of a volleyball player, wrestler, or baseball athlete, B1G+ is a must-have.
The Perfect Combo
For true Big Ten supporters, the combination of BTN and B1G+ is unbeatable. BTN keeps you covered for the high-profile games, while B1G+ ensures you don’t miss out on all the other action happening across the conference.
Together, they create a comprehensive sports experience that puts Big Ten fans closer to the action than ever before.
Conclusion
Both BTN and B1G+ play essential roles in how fans experience Big Ten sports. BTN delivers the major games with high production value, while B1G+ fills the gaps by covering the rest.
If you’re just looking for the biggest football and basketball matchups, BTN is all you need. But if you’re the type of fan who wants to follow your school’s wrestling team, volleyball squad, or softball program, then B1G+ is absolutely worth it.
👉 Visit the official site to choose the subscription plan that fits your needs and never miss a Big Ten moment again.
