The Big 12's Future is Anything But Certain: CBS Sports' Bold Predictions for 2026
CBS Sports has ignited the college football world with its Way-Too-Early rankings for the Big 12 in 2026, and let's just say, the landscape might look drastically different. Gone could be the days of a wide-open conference, with power seemingly consolidating at the top. But who will reign supreme? And which teams are poised to surprise? Let's dive into the rankings and explore the storylines that will shape the Big 12's future.
Texas Tech and BYU: Kings of the Hill, But For How Long?
Currently, Texas Tech and BYU sit atop the Big 12 throne. The Red Raiders, fresh off a Big 12 championship, aim to translate that success into a deeper CFP run. Joey McGuire has bolstered his roster with key additions like former Cincinnati QB Brendan Sorsby, linebackers John Curry and Ben Roberts, and Wake Forest DL Mateen Ibirogba. Can they build on their momentum and finally break through on the national stage?
BYU, meanwhile, made a splash by retaining head coach Kalani Sitake, who spurned Penn State to stay in Provo. With QB Bear Bachmeier entering his sophomore year, RB LJ Martin returning, and a defense loaded with talent like LB Isiaah Glasker, safety Faletau Satuala, and DT Keanu Tanuvasa, the Cougars are hungry for a conference title and a CFP berth. But can they overcome the perennial powerhouses?
Contenders Knocking on the Door
Willie Fritz has worked wonders at Houston, leading the Cougars to 10 wins last season. With RB Makhi Hughes joining QB Conner Weigman, Houston boasts a potent offense that could challenge for the top spot. Arizona, under Brent Brennan, has shown remarkable improvement, jumping from four wins to nine in a single season. QB Noah Fifita's return for his final year adds experience and leadership to a team on the rise.
Rebuilding and Reshuffling
Not all teams are enjoying smooth sailing. Arizona State, despite Kenny Dillingham's efforts, faces a rebuild after losing key players like QB Sam Leavitt, WR Jordyn Tyson, and RB Raleek Brown. Utah, under new head coach Morgan Scalley, needs to quickly rebuild its offensive line after losing top talent to Michigan. TCU, while consistently competitive under Sonny Dykes, needs to break out of the middle tier. Can new OC Gordon Sammis provide the offensive spark they need?
New Faces, New Hopes
Oklahoma State ushers in a new era with Eric Morris taking over for Mike Gundy. While a championship run might be a year or two away, the addition of 19 portal players, including QB Drew Mestemaker and RB Caleb Hawkins, signals a renewed focus on talent acquisition. Kansas State, under new head coach Collin Klein, needs to address defensive losses and find a way to support QB Avery Johnson if they want to contend.
The Rest of the Pack
Kansas, under Lance Leipold, is rebuilding with a new generation of players, while Cincinnati, Colorado, Baylor, UCF, West Virginia, and Iowa State all have their own stories to tell. Colorado, always intriguing under Deion Sanders, will be one to watch as they enter Year 4 of his tenure.
The Big Question: Who Will Dominate the Big 12 in 2026?
CBS Sports' rankings provide a fascinating glimpse into the future, but the beauty of college football lies in its unpredictability. Will Texas Tech and BYU maintain their dominance? Can Houston or Arizona crash the party? Will a sleeper team emerge from the pack? One thing's for sure: the Big 12 is in for a wild ride in 2026. What are your predictions? Let us know in the comments below!
