The early buzz for the 2026 college football season is already heating up, and for once, the Big 12 is getting the kind of national recognition that fans have been calling for. In ESPN’s way-too-early Top 25 rankings, five Big 12 programs made the cut - a clear sign that the conference is poised to be a serious player in the national picture this fall.
Let’s break down the five Big 12 teams that cracked the list and why each one earned its spot.
Texas Tech - No. 7
Texas Tech landing inside the Top 10 shouldn’t surprise anyone who’s been paying attention to what’s happening in Lubbock. The Red Raiders have strung together another standout offseason, stacking talent through the portal and building on last year’s momentum.
The biggest storyline? Cincinnati transfer Brendan Sorsby.
He’s expected to take over at quarterback, and the pieces around him might be even more dynamic than what Tech had last year. With a deep, athletic roster and continuity on the coaching staff, Texas Tech is shaping up to be a legitimate playoff contender - not just a Big 12 favorite.
BYU - No. 11
BYU’s ranking at No. 11 reflects two major wins this offseason: retaining head coach Kalani Sitake and keeping star quarterback Bear Bachmeier in Provo. Sitake was reportedly in serious talks with Penn State before they made a different hire, but his decision to stay gives BYU stability at the top.
As for Bachmeier, his loyalty to the program in an era of high-dollar portal deals speaks volumes. He’s the kind of quarterback who can elevate an entire offense, and with him back under center, the Cougars are poised to be a force in the Big 12 race.
TCU - No. 20
TCU’s inclusion in the Top 25 is a testament to how well Sonny Dykes has managed the roster turnover. Losing quarterback Josh Hoover to Indiana was a blow, no doubt, but Dykes responded by bringing in a mix of proven talent and high-upside players from the portal.
This isn’t just about plugging holes - it’s about retooling with purpose. TCU may not have the same firepower as last year, but they’ve got enough to stay competitive and make noise in the conference.
Arizona State - No. 23
Kenny Dillingham isn’t blinking. Even after losing quarterback Sam Leavitt, the Sun Devils have reloaded in a big way through the portal. Kentucky transfer Cutter Boley headlines the incoming class and is expected to take the reins at quarterback - unless freshman Jake Fette forces the issue with a breakout spring.
Arizona State’s aggressive approach to roster building is paying off, and Dillingham’s confidence in his vision is clearly resonating. This is a team that could surprise a lot of people in 2026.
Utah - No. 25
Utah rounds out the Big 12’s representation at No. 25, and while there’s a new face on the sideline, the foundation remains strong. Morgan Scalley steps into the head coaching role following Kyle Whittingham’s departure - a transition that felt inevitable, and one that’s been handled seamlessly so far.
The Utes return both of their top quarterbacks, Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin, which gives them a major edge heading into the season. Combine that with a roster that’s stayed largely intact, and Utah looks ready to stay in the thick of the Big 12 title chase.
The Big 12’s Rising Tide
Five teams in the early Top 25 is more than just a number - it’s a statement. The Big 12 isn’t just surviving realignment; it’s thriving in it. With a mix of established programs and rising contenders, the conference is deeper and more competitive than it’s been in years.
If these early rankings are any indication, the Big 12 is set to be one of the most compelling conferences in college football this fall.