The Big 12 Conference is gearing up for the 2026 College Football Playoff, hoping that a combination of competitive depth and strategic scheduling will finally translate into a breakthrough performance.
Commissioner Brett Yormark has repeatedly stressed that winning games is the only way to credentialize the league as one of the premier football conferences in America, a goal that has eluded the circuit for over a decade.
A New Contender Emerges
Texas Tech, bolstered by a roster that has seen significant spending and depth, is viewed as the favorite to return to the playoff and secure the conference’s first victory since the 2022 edition.
Coach Joey McGuire of Texas Tech says the team’s expectations have shifted; the mission now is not just to defend a title but to break through and win a playoff game.
Perspectives from Across the League
Cincinnati coach Scott Satterfield argues that several Big 12 teams deserved playoff consideration, pointing to the conference’s overall competitiveness.
BYU’s exclusion despite double‑digit wins has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.
Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham emphasizes the need to create a strong product on the field to advance in the playoff and promote the Big 12 brand.
Other programs such as Ohio State, University of Cincinnati and Texas Tech’s rivals also see opportunities, with coaches like Dave Aranda and DJ Lagway highlighting the importance of roster investment and strategic scheduling.
The conversation extends beyond the field, as university leaders and athletic departments coordinate efforts to enhance the conference’s national profile, leveraging partnerships with media outlets and sponsors.
If the playoff committee expands the field, the Big 12 could see multiple representatives, a prospect that excites both administrators and student‑athletes.