The Big 12 conference is a hotbed of talent and potential, and with spring practices in the rearview mirror, the stage is set for an exciting season. Every team is looking to make a splash, and with the transfer portal churning, the possibilities are endless. Let's dive into the overreactions and understatements, exploring the teams that are ready to take the next step and those that might need a little more time to develop.
BYU: The New Big 12 Favorite
BYU is a team on the rise, and with Texas Tech's quarterback situation in question, all eyes are on Provo. The Cougars have a top-10 defense in returning snaps, and with potential All-Americans at every level, they are a force to be reckoned with. The addition of LJ Martin, the Big 12's best running back, further bolsters their offensive capabilities. If the offensive line can come together, BYU is a playoff contender and the new favorite in the conference.
Oklahoma State: The Best Offense in the Big 12
First-year coach Eric Morris has brought his North Texas offense to Stillwater, and the results are impressive. With top-50 transfers Drew Mestemaker, Caleb Hawkins, and Wyatt Young, the Cowboys are set to roll. Morris, a long-underrated offensive playcaller, is poised to become a national star, and Oklahoma State's offense is shaping up to be the best in the conference.
Arizona: The Wildcats Can Win the Big 12
After a brief blip, Arizona is back on track under Brent Brennan. With senior quarterback Noah Fifita leading the way, the Wildcats have a chance to put together one of the Big 12's best passing offenses. A strong defensive transfer class and a high ceiling make Arizona a team to watch, ready to take the next step.
Houston: Bet Big on Year 3 of Willie Fritz
Houston had a breakthrough season last year, and with top-30 returning production, including star receiver Amare Thomas and quarterback Conner Weigman, the Cougars are set to make a run at the conference title. The addition of former Tulane and Oregon running back Makhi Hughes further strengthens their offense, making Houston a team that can beat anyone.
TCU: Jaden Craig is an Upgrade
TCU brought in high-quality transfer Jaden Craig from Harvard, and early reports are positive. With a standout run at Harvard, Craig has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the conference. In TCU's pass-happy offense, he could quickly prove himself, making the Horned Frogs a team to watch.
Kansas: Starting from Scratch
Kansas is in a state of flux, with Jalon Daniels off to the NFL and a number of newcomers on both sides of the ball. The Jayhawks are starting from scratch, and while the addition of running back Dylan Edwards and talented offensive line transfers will help, it's a challenging task for Lance Leipold and his staff to chart a new path.
West Virginia: Let Rich Rod Cook
West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez has cycled through a lot of players, but there are encouraging signs. High school recruits and top-130 rankings in the Top247, along with running back Cam Cook and quarterback transfer Michael Hawkins Jr., suggest that Rodriguez is finding some diamonds in the rough. The churn might be different, but the potential is there.
Arizona State: Omarion Miller Can Be the Big 12's Best
Arizona State lost Jordyn Tyson to the NFL, but Omarion Miller, a Colorado transfer, provides intrigue. With 45 catches for 808 yards and eight touchdowns, Miller has the shiftiness and size to build on Tyson's legacy. Despite miserable quarterback play, Miller is a potential star, and the Sun Devils are a team to watch.
Iowa State: Gems in the Transfer Class
First-year coach Jimmy Rogers has done a great job restocking the roster, with several under-the-radar transfers making an impact. Defensive tackle Bryson Lamb, offensive lineman Jake Taylor, and Cody Jackson have already made their mark. If things break the right way, the Cyclones could be more competitive than expected.
Cincinnati: The Offensive Line is Among the Best
Cincinnati hit the transfer portal jackpot last year, and the Bearcats are set to take another step. Offensive tackle Joe Cotton is a future pro, and Evan Tengesdahl and Taran Tayo return. With a strong transfer receiver class, the Bearcats could be feistier than expected, making them a team to watch.
Colorado: Brennan Marion Helps Fix the Running Game
The Buffaloes have struggled running the ball under Deion Sanders, but the Go Go Offense under Brennan Marion might be the solution. The system creates downfield running opportunities, and with Alabama transfer Richard Young, veteran Micah Welch, and second-year rusher DeKalon Taylor, the Colorado offense has a chance to be special.
Kansas State: Avery Johnson is Back
Avery Johnson had a disappointing junior season, but things are trending up. With Collin Klein back after two years at Texas A&M, the former Heisman finalist is the perfect coach to maximize Johnson's potential. Expect big numbers from the uber-talented Johnson.
UCF: The Defense Will Keep Trending Up
UCF outperformed expectations on defense last season, and with six defenders returning, including the entire secondary, the Knights are set to put together a nationally-relevant unit. The defense will continue to be a strength, keeping UCF in the conversation.
Utah: Morgan Scalley Won't Miss a Beat
Despite the loss of Kyle Whittingham, Utah remains in great shape. Quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin are back, and with running back Wayshawn Parker projected as one of the Big 12's best, the Utes have a strong foundation. The defense has championship DNA, and there's no reason Utah can't compete for the conference title.
In conclusion, the Big 12 is a conference full of potential, and with the right mix of talent and coaching, teams like BYU, Oklahoma State, Arizona, and Houston are poised to make a run at the championship. However, teams like Kansas and West Virginia are starting from scratch, and it remains to be seen if they can chart a new path. The conference is wide open, and the season promises to be an exciting one.
