College football fans, get ready for some heated debates! CBS Sports has unleashed its way-too-early rankings for the Big 12, and the battle for supremacy is already brewing.
Texas Tech and BYU are currently reigning supreme, but will they maintain their dominance in the 2026 season? Both teams have their eyes on the CFP, but the road ahead is filled with challenges. CBS Sports' rankings reveal a fascinating picture of the conference's hierarchy, and it's sure to spark some passionate discussions among fans.
Texas Tech: The defending Big 12 champions are on top, but their early CFP exit leaves room for improvement. The addition of former Cincinnati QB Brendan Sorsby and the return of key players like LBs John Curry and Ben Roberts strengthen their position.
BYU: Kalani Sitake's decision to stay with BYU instead of Penn State was a game-changer. With QB Bear Bachmeier in his sophomore year and a solid defense led by LB Isiaah Glasker, they're aiming for the conference title and CFP glory.
Houston: Willie Fritz's team had an impressive 10-win season, and their roster is even stronger now. RB Makhi Hughes joins QB Conner Weigman, forming a dynamic duo. Can they challenge for the conference's pinnacle?
Arizona: Brent Brennan's Wildcats made significant strides in Year 2, and they're not done yet. QB Noah Fifita's return for his final year is a huge boost. Arizona aims to compete for the conference crown.
Arizona State: Despite losing key players, Arizona State has reloaded with DT CJ Fite and QBs Mikey Keene and Cutter Boley. But can they surpass their fifth-place ranking?
Utah: A new era begins under Morgan Scalley, but the loss of top contributors to Michigan, like pass rusher John Henry Daley, is a concern. The Utes need to rebuild their offensive line swiftly.
TCU: Sonny Dykes has revitalized the Horned Frogs, winning 18 games in two years. Harvard QB Jaden Craig steps in, and new OC Gordon Sammis brings fresh ideas. Can TCU rise above the middle?
Oklahoma State: Eric Morris takes over, and it might take time to contend. The addition of 19 portal players, including QB Drew Mestemaker and RB Caleb Hawkins, is exciting. Keep an eye on the Cowboys.
Kansas State: New coach Collin Klein aims to revive the team's fortunes. QB Avery Johnson needs support, and the defense faces transfer portal losses. A potential wildcard in the conference.
Kansas: Lance Leipold's squad welcomes RB Dylan Edwards and guard Connor Stroh, but the QB position is a work in progress.
And here's the rest of the rankings, where the competition gets even more intense: 11. Cincinnati, 12. Colorado, 13. Baylor, 14. UCF, 15. West Virginia, and 16. Iowa State.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is Colorado, with Deion Sanders entering his fourth year, being underestimated? They retained QB Julian Lewis but lost key players. Could they be the dark horse in the Big 12?
What do you think, college football enthusiasts? Do these rankings hit the mark or miss the target? Share your thoughts and let's ignite the discussion!
