Big 12 Preseason Rankings Set the Stage
The Big 12 has released its 2026 preseason football rankings, a snapshot that highlights the conference’s shifting power dynamics heading into the new season. The top spots are dominated by programs that combined strong recruiting classes with favorable schedules, setting the tone for a year that promises both familiar contenders and unexpected challengers.
Texas Tech earns the No.1 position, buoyed by a potent offense and a schedule that experts deem manageable. However, quarterback Brendan Sorsby will miss the campaign after an ongoing NCAA dispute, a setback that could reshape the Red Raiders’ early‑game plans.
Close behind at No.2 is BYU, which retains the services of quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back L.J. Martin, giving the Cougars a proven tandem that helped them finish strong last year. Their experience on both sides of the ball makes them a serious threat in the conference race.
Utah slides in at No.3 under new head coach Morgan Scalley, who inherits a run‑heavy scheme that emphasizes physicality at the line of scrimmage. The Utes hope the new system will capitalize on their depth at running back and tight end.
The middle tier features Houston at No.4, Arizona at No.5, Kansas State at No.6, TCU at No.7, Arizona State at No.8, Oklahoma State at No.9 and UCF at No.10, each bringing a mix of returning starters and high‑profile transfers. These programs are expected to jockey for position as the season progresses.
Players to Watch
Among the storylines, several quarterbacks will be under the spotlight: Noah Fifita of Arizona, who has generated Heisman chatter, and Conner Weigman of Houston, who returns with a strong supporting cast. At West Virginia, running back Cam Cook arrives as a new weapon for an offense that aims to capitalize on a solid line.
TCU introduces Jaden Craig as its new quarterback, while Arizona State’s Cutter Boley is expected to anchor a young, aggressive defense that could surprise many opponents. Kansas State’s new head coach Collin Klein brings a quarterback‑centric philosophy that may revitalize the Wildcats’ attack.
Further down the ladder, Colorado sits at No.15 with a roster in flux and potential coaching changes, while Iowa State enters as a completely rebuilt squad after a recent coaching turnover. Both programs are looking to rebound from last season’s disappointments.
Overall, the 2026 preseason rankings suggest a conference where tradition and transition coexist, promising a season filled with competitive matchups and emerging storylines.