Introduction
The Big 12 conference is undergoing a significant transformation as powerhouses Texas and Oklahoma move to the SEC, and new contenders like Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah join the fray. Additionally, recent additions to the conference, BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF, have further shaken things up. As we approach the 2024 college football season, the competition for the coveted Big 12 Championship is heating up. In this article, we will explore the early frontrunners for the championship and potential surprise teams.
Kansas State: A Team to Watch
Kansas State has shown that they can rise to the occasion and should be a team to watch in the reshaped Big 12 landscape. With the departure of Texas and Oklahoma, the Wildcats have a golden opportunity to claim the championship. Their impressive 9-4 finish last season, coupled with a solid 6-3 conference record, demonstrates their competitiveness even amid change.
Although the Wildcats will have to adapt to significant roster shifts, including the loss of top receivers Ben Sinnott and Phillip Brooks, promising young players like Avery Johnson and DJ Giddens offer hope for the future. Johnson, who quickly rose during his freshman season, showcased his skills by winning the MVP award at the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Paired with Giddens, who rushed for over 1,226 yards last season, Kansas State’s offense promises excitement.
Coach Chris Kleiman has a reputation for developing talent, and with the right adjustments, Kansas State could emerge as a frontrunner in the new-look Big 12. This could be the start of a new era for the Wildcats as they aim for championship glory.
Utah: Returning to Glory
As the newest addition to the Big 12, the Utah Utes bring a wealth of experience and the hope of returning to their previous glory. After winning back-to-back Pac-12 championships in 2021 and 2022, their 2023 season was plagued by injuries, resulting in an 8-5 record.
The focal point for Utah in 2024 will undoubtedly be quarterback Cam Rising, who missed the previous year with a knee injury. Rising’s impressive track record, including over 3,000 passing yards in his last full season, makes him a critical piece in lifting the Utes’ performance. His reunion with tight end Brant Kuithe, who missed all of 2023 due to injury, further strengthens Utah’s offense.
Additionally, running back Micah Bernard is expected to make a healthy comeback after an injury hampered his 2023 campaign. Coach Kyle Whittingham’s teams are known for their toughness and defensive acumen. If they can maintain their health, the Utes could be real contenders, poised to reclaim their championship status in the Big 12.
Kansas: A Remarkable Resurgence
Under the guidance of Coach Lance Leipold, the Kansas Jayhawks have experienced a remarkable resurgence. Progressing from a dismal 2-10 record in 2021 to an impressive 9-4 finish last season, the Jayhawks are on an upward trajectory. While historically struggling in college football, the current momentum suggests that they could finally make some noise in the Big 12.
The health and performance of star quarterback Jalon Daniels will be key to Kansas’ potential success. Daniels has shown flashes of brilliance but was sidelined for much of last season. His dual-threat ability, complemented by standout running back Devin Neal, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year, will be pivotal to the team’s offense.
On the defensive side, First-Team All-Conference cornerback Cobee Bryant will play a crucial role in shutting down opposing pass games. With the landscape of the conference shifting and the opportunity for a new champion, Kansas could make history in 2024 by claiming its first Big 12 title.
Other Teams to Watch
In addition to the frontrunners, teams like Arizona, Texas Tech, and Iowa State merit attention in the expanded Big 12. Arizona, coming off a solid 10-3 season, faces a coaching shakeup but boasts a powerful pairing in quarterback Noah Fifita and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. However, the question of continuity in coaching remains a concern.
Texas Tech and Iowa State offer intriguing narratives. Both teams have +1000 odds, but Iowa State could be the sleeper pick. With an impressive 86% returning production, they possess the best defense in the league, featuring standout players like safety Jeremiah Cooper and linebacker Beau Freyler. Offensively, quarterback Rocco Becht is expected to take a leap in his performance, supported by a stable offensive line and key receiving corps.
Conclusion
As the Big 12 undergoes a dramatic transformation, the 2024 college football season promises intense competition for the conference championship. Kansas State, Utah, and Kansas emerge as early frontrunners, each with their unique strengths and potential for success. Additionally, teams like Arizona, Texas Tech, and Iowa State present intriguing storylines and have the potential to surprise. With the landscape of the conference shifting, expect plenty of surprises as these teams battle for supremacy.