CBS Sports has recently unveiled its initial rankings of Big 12 football teams, placing them in order from the strongest to the weakest for the upcoming season. This ranking arrives at a pivotal moment when many consider the Big 12 to be one of the most unpredictable conferences in college football. However, next year could reveal a different story as the landscape begins to take shape.
Currently, Texas Tech and BYU are leading the pack within the Big 12. A pressing question arises: will they maintain their top positions as they both aim for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the 2026 season?
Let’s explore CBS Sports’ rankings, starting with the reigning champions at the top.
Texas Tech
As the current champions of the Big 12, Texas Tech has earned the number one spot heading into next season. Despite their championship victory, they faced an early exit from the CFP, leaving head coach Joey McGuire and his team eager for redemption. They have bolstered their roster with the addition of former Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby, which should enhance their offensive capabilities. Returning players like linebackers John Curry and Ben Roberts, along with Wake Forest defensive lineman Mateen Ibirogba, will also play crucial roles in their pursuit of repeated success.BYU
Under head coach Kalani Sitake, BYU made headlines late last season by deciding to remain in the Big 12 instead of transferring to Penn State. The Cougars, who clinched victory in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, now set their sights on winning the conference title and securing a spot in the CFP. With sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier stepping up and star running back LJ Martin returning, their offense looks promising. The defense, led by linebacker Isiaah Glasker, safety Faletau Satuala, and defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa, is expected to be formidable.Houston
What a remarkable achievement it has been for Willie Fritz, coaching Houston to ten wins last season! As they gear up for 2026, the Cougars arguably have an even stronger roster. The dynamic duo of running back Makhi Hughes and quarterback Conner Weigman could provide a potent 1-2 punch, and they will undoubtedly compete fiercely for the top ranks in the conference.Arizona
Brent Brennan’s efforts have paid off significantly, as Arizona improved remarkably in his second year, finishing strong in the rankings. Quarterback Noah Fifita is back for his final collegiate season, poised to lead the Wildcats’ offense. The notable leap from four wins to nine illustrates the potential for continued growth as they vie for a conference title.Arizona State
Kenny Dillingham is determined to elevate Arizona State to the upper echelon of the Big 12, ensuring that their spectacular success in 2024 isn’t merely a fluke. However, the departure of key players like quarterback Sam Leavitt (who's transferred to LSU), wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (heading to the NFL Draft), and running back Raleek Brown (now at Texas) presents challenges. Nonetheless, the return of defensive tackle CJ Fite and the acquisition of quarterbacks Mikey Keene and Cutter Boley via transfer are positive developments for the Sun Devils.Utah
A new chapter begins at Utah with Morgan Scalley stepping into a leadership role. With Kyle Whittingham’s departure after speculation about him taking the Michigan job, the Utes have seen some top talents leave, such as pass rusher John Henry Daley. To regain their competitive edge in the Big 12, they must prioritize rebuilding their offensive line without delay.TCU
Sonny Dykes has successfully reestablished TCU’s position in Big 12 contention over the past two seasons, culminating in a total of 18 wins. With Harvard quarterback Jaden Craig joining the team to fill the gap left by Josh Hoover’s transfer to Indiana, fresh strategies are anticipated. Dykes has also brought in UConn’s Gordon Sammis as the new offensive coordinator for 2026, aiming to inject innovative ideas. But can TCU escape the middle tier and rise further?Oklahoma State
A new era begins for Oklahoma State with Eric Morris taking the helm from Mike Gundy. If the Cowboys aspire to contend for the Big 12 title, it may take a little time to adjust. In the meantime, they have made a significant infusion of talent by adding 19 players through the transfer portal. Keep an eye on quarterback Drew Mestemaker and running back Caleb Hawkins, as they could bring excitement to the team's performance.Kansas State
Collin Klein has stepped in as the new head coach, tasked with revitalizing Kansas State. The Wildcats need to provide support for quarterback Avery Johnson if they are to make a mark in the Big 12 this season. A significant concern lies in how the defense will cope with the loss of several players to the transfer portal. However, with determination and strategy, there is potential for a surprise comeback.Kansas
Under the guidance of Lance Leipold, Kansas is ushering in a fresh wave of talent, having seen many veterans depart. The acquisition of running back Dylan Edwards from Kansas State through the transfer portal should provide a boost to their offense. Additionally, they’ve welcomed Texas guard Connor Stroh into the fold. However, replacing quarterback Jalon Daniels will undoubtedly pose challenges and will require time and effort.
In the overall CBS Sports Way-Too-Early Big 12 football rankings for 2026, the remaining teams include:
- Cincinnati
- Colorado
- Baylor
- UCF
- West Virginia
- Iowa State
As always, Colorado remains an intriguing team to watch as Deion Sanders enters his fourth year in Boulder. While the Buffaloes bring back quarterback Julian Lewis, they have lost standout players like offensive tackle Jordan Seaton and wide receiver Dre’lon Miller.
This ranking not only highlights the competitive nature of the Big 12 but also raises questions about the strategies each team will employ to enhance their standings. What do you think? Which team do you foresee making significant strides, and which might struggle? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments!
