Off the top of my head Illinois is generally considered #1 in Civil Eng, they have other top 5/10 Eng depts, Computer Sci is 1 or 2ish, Ag Eng top 2, Finance and Accounting are top level programs and they have one of the best Library Sci programs, one of the best Research Parks around giving a lot of opportunities for both undergrads & grad students. I don't think Ohio St would be considered a "safety" school for top students but they, Iowa, Indiana etc prob are for mid level students.
Sure Ohio St has the "The" and Dr. Phillips but ...