The Competitors of the Big 12

With only two weeks complete through the season, it is hard to judge who could come out in the conference. However, we can look into what teams look like so far, and could potentially make noise throughout conference play. No significant team can be said to win the conference at this point in time, which makes for an exciting race for games to come.

1. Utah (2-0)

   
   

   The newcomers were the frontrunners for the conference title coming into the season with solid seasons in the Pac 12. Also, with the news of returning quarterback Cam Rising, the team had high hopes. Winning their first game handily, they had to enter conference play in just the second game of the season against Baylor. They did struggle against a Baylor team that does not look great. Rising also sustaining a hand injury is not good news, but is suppose to be a minor injury. With that, the team should still be able to compete at the top, but could see themselves struggling against more competitive teams.

   
   

   Next up: Utah State

   
   

2. Oklahoma State (2-0)

   
   

   Another team coming off a good season, and at the top of the list to take the conference. The team coming into the season with a veteran quarterback and arguably the best running back in the nation. Looking good in their opener to SDSU put them in a good position in week two against an impressive Arkansas team. Down 21-7 at one point, it was not looking great for the Cowboys, however mustered up a big fourth quarter to send the game to overtime. Ultimately beating Arkansas just slightly in a thriller. This brings questions to the team as they may not be the powerhouse many thought they could be, time will tell in conference play.

   
   

   Next up: Tulsa

   
   

3. Kansas State (2-0)

   
   

   Like Oklahoma State, the Wildcats almost split their first two games. Handling UT Martin in week one, but having to come from behind against Tulane. With promising quarterback Avery Johnson, and explosive skill players, Kansas State had high hopes heading into this season as well. Playing a team they lost to last season in Tulane was not an easy task. The team narrowly escaped another upset 34-27 against the tough Tulane squad. This shows that Kansas State can be shown weakness within this conference.

   
   

   Next up: Arizona

   
   

4. Iowa State (2-0)

   
   

   One of the most promising teams to make the jump this season after returning a major chunk of the team. After a shaky start against North Dakota, the team went into week two with their big rivalry, Iowa. In a first half that looked diminished, the Cyclones looked to par in the second beating the Hawkeyes 20-19. With this being said, the team has had glimpses this season thus far, but can be shown to create weaknesses at points. A favorable schedule could help them to the top.

   
   

   Next up: Arkansas State

   
   

5. Arizona (2-0)

   
   

   Another newcomer into the conference from the Pac 12 with higher expectations. The Wildcats showed their strong offense in week one against New Mexico with the likes of star players Noah Fifita, and Tetairoa McMillan. Going into week two against Northern Arizona, the team struggled to show their prowess. A hole in this team could be their defense if the offense can't get going, which could lead to problems against some of the stronger squads in the conference.

   
   

   Next up: Kansas State

   
   

6. West Virginia (1-1)

   
   

   A team with much higher expectations coming into the season compared to last. A big key with quarterback Garrett Greene looking to have a strong season. They had a tough task in the first week of the season with Penn State. They would struggle on offense against the strong Big 10 squad ultimately, giving them an opening 34-12 loss. A disappointing loss led them to a blowout victory in week two against Albany. Going into conference play the team still has high hopes for the season, and can compete with any team in the conference with their offense rolling.

   
   

   Next up: Pittsburgh

   
   

7. UCF (2-0)

   
   

   New to the conference as of last season, the Knights struggled to find their way in the new home. This season could be a different story with some new additions. They began the season demolishing New Hampshire 57-3, where this new look offense shined. New veteran quarterback KJ Jefferson is looking to end his career on the right note, following his departure from Arkansas. If Jefferson and the offense can compete, then the team has a shot, just as they dominated week two against Sam Houston. Don't be surprised if this team wins more games than they are slated to in conference play.

   
   

   Next up: TCU

Written by Anthony Ellis. 2024