Texas A&M Set to Shake Up the Big 12 in 2026
Texas Tech is expected to dominate the Big 12 in 2026, with the Red Raiders projected to win the conference title.
The 2026 college football season is almost here, and the Big 12 is gearing up for a thrilling year. With the conference set to welcome new teams and coaches, the stage is set for some exciting matchups.
The Red Raiders have been bolstered by the addition of quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who is expected to lead the team to victory. However, the team's defense is facing a significant challenge, as it will be difficult to replace the likes of David Bailey, Jacob Rodriguez, and Lee Hunter.
Utah is considered a top-three team entering the year, but the Utes' offense is facing an overhaul, which could leave them looking quite different. The team is also dealing with questions along the defensive front, following the departure of some of its best players.
Oklahoma State is expected to improve this year, but it's hard to see the team contending for a Big 12 title. The Cowboys have a talented roster, led by star quarterback Drew Mestemaker, but their defense still enters the 2026 season worthy of being questioned.
Arizona State is facing a tough schedule, with a trip to London to play Kansas and a brutal three-game stretch in which it will need to win at least two of three. The team is also dealing with questions about its roster, although coach Kenny Dillingham deserves the trust that he'll get it figured out.
Texas Tech's schedule makes it difficult to argue against them winning the conference title. The Red Raiders will face a tough game against Houston on Sept. 18, but aside from that, their schedule is relatively easy.
The Big 12 will have at least three coaching changes at the end of the year, with Baylor's Dave Aranda facing a lot of pressure after struggling since winning the Big 12 in 2021. Scott Satterfield's first season at Cincinnati will also be under the microscope, as the team looks to build on its 7-6 record last year.
The Big 12 is gearing up for a thrilling year, with new teams and coaches joining the conference. The stage is set for some exciting matchups, and fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the 2026 college football season.
Source: Yahoo Sports