Texas Tech leads a crowded field of contenders
The 2026 Big 12 season arrives with familiar volatility and a clear preseason favorite. Texas Tech enters as the defending champion after a dominant 9‑1 conference run in 2025. The roster is stacked with playmakers across both sides of the ball, including Cameron Dickey, Terrance Carter Jr., A.J. Holmes Jr., Trey White, Ben Roberts, Austin Romaine and Brice Pollock. The only uncertainty comes at quarterback, where Brendan Sorsby’s controversial departure leaves Will Hammond — still recovering from an ACL injury — as the projected starter. Even with that question, Tech’s depth gives it a strong edge entering September.
BYU sits close behind, returning quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin from an 8‑2 Big 12 campaign. Both losses came against Texas Tech, fueling hopes of a championship rematch. Utah begins the Morgan Scalley era with Devon Dampier at quarterback and one of the league’s strongest secondaries. Houston, under Willie Fritz, is a rising threat after jumping from 4‑8 to 10‑3 last season. Conner Weigman’s dual‑threat ability could push the Cougars into the title picture.
A deep middle tier adds unpredictability
Oklahoma State begins a rebuild under a new coach, boosted by North Texas transfers Caleb Hawkins and Wyatt Young. Kansas State is resurgent under new leadership, leaning on Collin Klein’s legacy and a revamped defense. Arizona returns Noah Fifita, one of the conference’s top quarterbacks, but faces a brutal road schedule. Arizona State adds Omarion Miller and could climb quickly. Colorado and West Virginia both made significant portal additions, giving them potential to disrupt the standings.
Storylines that will shape the season
Texas Tech enters as the league’s villain, fueled by aggressive portal moves and the Sorsby saga. BYU aims to avenge last year’s losses and push for a title. Houston’s offense could explode with Weigman at the helm. Oklahoma State’s rebuild and Kansas State’s resurgence add intrigue to the middle tier.
Projected contenders
Top tier: Texas Tech, BYU, Utah, Houston Middle tier: Oklahoma State, Kansas State, Arizona, Arizona State Others: Colorado, West Virginia, Cincinnati, TCU
Key matchups
BYU vs. Texas Tech Utah vs. BYU Houston vs. Kansas State Arizona vs. Arizona State
The 2026 Big 12 season will be shaped by star power, coaching changes and the conference’s trademark unpredictability. Texas Tech enters with the advantage, but BYU, Utah and Houston all have legitimate paths to the title game.
