In a week filled with unexpected twists in college football, the Big 12 Conference found itself at the center of the chaos. With teams like Colorado and BYU suffering disappointing losses, the league is now tangled in a four-team battle at the top. The College Football Playoff (CFP) picture is shaping up to be intriguing, but it seems likely that the Big 12 may only send one representative to the playoffs.
Big 12 power rankings for week 14
So, how does the entire league stack up? Let’s dive into our Big 12 Power Rankings and see where each team stands as the season approaches its climax.
#1 Arizona State (9-2)
Here we are — just a week away from the end of the regular season, and the team that was picked last in the preseason media poll is now in the thick of the Big 12 title hunt. Arizona State has positioned itself well, holding advantages in tiebreakers against other contenders. The Sun Devils (6-2 Big 12) have a solid chance of not only winning the Big 12 but also making a splash in the playoffs, according to ESPN’s FPI. All that stands in their way is an underachieving Arizona team, and a potential 10-win season is on the horizon.
#2 BYU (9-2)
After suffering a second conference loss, BYU has slipped back into the pack. The Cougars (6-2 Big 12) are still in the playoff conversation, but their tiebreaker situation is less than ideal. A win against Houston in their finale is crucial, but they will need some help from other teams to secure a playoff spot.
#3 Iowa State (9-2)
Iowa State is part of the four-team logjam at the top of the Big 12. The Cyclones are in a favorable position regarding tiebreakers, and ESPN’s FPI gives them a solid chance of making the playoffs. With a regular-season finale against Kansas State, they have a golden opportunity to bolster their resume and solidify their standing.
#4 Kansas State (8-3)
Kansas State (5-3 Big 12) enjoyed a decisive victory over Cincinnati, but their third conference loss has dimmed their playoff hopes. They will look to finish strong against Iowa State, which could help them gain some momentum heading into the offseason.
#5 Colorado (8-3)
The Buffaloes have had a rollercoaster season, oscillating between moments of brilliance and frustrating setbacks. Colorado’s (6-2 Big 12) playoff aspirations are hanging by a thread, and they will need to win the league to have a shot at the playoffs. With Oklahoma State on the horizon, the stakes are high for the Buffs.
#6 Baylor (7-4)
Baylor (5-3 Big 12) secured a lackluster win over Houston, but they face a tough test against Kansas to close out the regular season. The outcome could significantly impact their standing and determine their trajectory heading into the offseason.
#7 TCU (7-4)
TCU (5-3 Big 12) managed to secure their seventh win of the season with a commanding performance against Arizona. Their upcoming matchup with Cincinnati will be pivotal for both teams as they jockey for position in the rankings.
#8 Texas Tech (7-4)
The Red Raiders (5-3 Big 12) had a wild game, scoring 56 points but allowing 48. Their defense has been a concern, but their potent offense keeps them competitive in a league filled with high-scoring matchups.
#9 Kansas (5-6)
Despite a rocky start to the season, Kansas (4-4 Big 12) has found its stride, winning three straight games against tough opponents like Iowa State, BYU, and Colorado. If they can finish strong against Baylor, they could be a formidable opponent in the postseason.
#10 West Virginia (6-5)
West Virginia (5-3 Big 12) achieved bowl eligibility with a win over UCF. As the offseason approaches, discussions surrounding head coach Neal Brown’s future will be inevitable, especially with the Mountaineers’ inconsistent performances.
#11 Cincinnati (5-6)
Cincinnati (3-5 Big 12) started the season strong but has since fallen off the map, suffering a significant loss to Kansas State. Their upcoming game against TCU is crucial for their postseason hopes, and they will need to find their rhythm to make a push.
#12 UCF (4-7)
UCF (2-6 Big 12) is officially out of bowl contention after a disappointing loss to West Virginia. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, and they will look to regroup in the offseason.
#13 Utah (4-7)
Utah (1-7 Big 12) has faced a tough season, including injuries and bad luck. Their narrow loss to Iowa State was a microcosm of their struggles, and they will aim to finish on a high note despite being eliminated from bowl consideration.
#14 Arizona (4-7)
Arizona (2-6 Big 12) has also been eliminated from bowl eligibility after a dismal season. Despite having a talented quarterback-wide receiver duo in Noah Fifita and Tetairoa McMillan, they have struggled to find consistency.
#15 Houston (4-7)
Houston (3-5 Big 12) slumped to a 10-20 loss against Baylor, officially knocking them out of bowl contention. They will look to salvage their season with a win in their final game.
#16 Oklahoma State (3-8)
Oklahoma State (0-8 Big 12) went down fighting in a 48-56 shootout, but they remain one of the biggest disappointments of the season. Running back Ollie Gordon is still shy of 1,000 rushing yards, which is shocking given the expectations for the team.
What do you think of our Big 12 Power Rankings? Share your thoughts below in the comments section! The excitement of college football is palpable, and with the season winding down, every game counts. Let’s see how these teams finish strong!
