Pre-Spring Portal Big 12 Football Power Rankings
The conference is set for another wild season in 2024.
The Big 12 has been one of the most unpredictable conferences in recent years, and with new additions, that should continue in 2024.
Led by some hopefuls from the Pac-12 and some of the Big 12's staples, next season could feature one of the most stacked conferences in Big 12 history. As Oklahoma State looks to make back-to-back conference title games, it will have some stiff competition.
2024 Big 12 Power Rankings:
1. Utah (8-5 record in 2023)
With Cam Rising back on the field, the Utes have a strong case to come into the Big 12 and make a statement in year one. Assuming he can get back to his old self, Rising should be able to lead his Utah team near the top of the conference.
2. Kansas (9-4)
Lance Leipold has turned the Kansas football program around in his first three seasons, and his fourth is shaping up to be his best. Of course, it will all come down to whether star quarterback Jalon Daniels can stay on the field.
3. Kansas State (9-4)
The Wildcats should be in the mix to make a trip to Arlington for the second time in three seasons. With the multi-faceted DJ Giddens leading the offense, Kansas State should be a fun team to watch again.
4. Oklahoma State (10-4)
Behind a large group of returning starters, led by Doak Walker winner Ollie Gordon, the Cowboys look ready to compete in the Big 12 and make another appearance in the Big 12 title game.
5. Arizona (10-3)
The Wildcats come into the Big 12 with plenty of momentum. Coming off the program’s second 10-win season in the past 25 years, Arizona already looks ready to compete for a Big 12 title, even with a new coach in Brent Brennan.
6. Iowa State (7-6)
After an exciting season where they competed for a spot in the Big 12 Championship, the Cyclones and coach Matt Campbell will look to build on a successful season. If quarterback Rocco Becht is able to take another leap, Iowa State might be ready to make a trip to Arlington.
7. Texas Tech (7-6)
The Red Raiders came into 2023 as a dark horse candidate to win the Big 12. After last season did not go as planned, Joey McGuire’s team could take the next step in 2024.
8. Colorado (4-8)
Coach Prime is bringing the most entertaining group in college football to the Big 12. With a heavy emphasis on the transfer portal, the Buffaloes could be a surprise team next season.
9. UCF (6-7)
After five straight losses to begin Big 12 play last season, the Knights turned their season around and made a bowl game. With R.J. Harvey in the backfield, UCF could field a potent offense this Fall.
10. TCU (5-7)
The Horned Frogs went from national runner-up to missing out on a bowl game in one year. Although TCU will not return to its 2022 form, expect a bounce-back season.
11. West Virginia (9-4)
After a somewhat surprising season in 2023, the Mountaineers could make some noise in 2024. Although they are unlikely to compete for a Big 12 title, they have the talent to shake things up.
12. Baylor (3-9)
2024 looks to be a rebuilding year in Waco, which is not exactly encouraging after winning only three games last season.
13. BYU (5-7)
BYU suffered many close losses last season to miss out on a bowl game, but after losing some talent this offseason, it might be another tough year for the Cougars.
14. Arizona State (3-9)
After a rough season in the Pac-12, it might be more of the same for the Sun Devils in their new conference.
15. Cincinnati (3-9)
The Bearcats finished last season as the only Big 12 team not to win multiple conference games. After losing their starting quarterback, next season is not necessarily looking better.
16. Houston (4-8)
Willie Fritz is taking over for the Cougars after Dana Holgorsen’s team struggled to adjust to the Big 12. Although it will be year two in the conference for Houston, the result on the field might not change much.
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