Four Big 12 Storylines That Deserve Your Attention This Week
Another week, another round of headlines shaking up the Big 12. From standout individual performances to seismic shifts in the business of college athletics, there’s no shortage of intrigue. Let’s dive into four major storylines that captured attention across the conference.
Jacob Rodriguez Deserved a Seat in New York
Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez put together one of the most complete defensive seasons we’ve seen in years. Yet somehow, when the Heisman finalists were announced, his name was nowhere to be found. That snub raised more than a few eyebrows-and for good reason.
Rodriguez didn’t just dominate the Big 12; he made a national statement. He was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and took home the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top defensive player.
His stat line reads like something out of a video game: 117 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, a nation-leading seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, six pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries. That’s not just impact-that’s game-changing production on every level of the field.
While Fernando Mendoza winning the Heisman was well-earned, the conversation around who gets invited to New York needs to evolve. When a player like Rodriguez puts together that kind of season, at the very least, he deserves to be in the room. The Heisman may be an offensive award in practice, but performances like his challenge that status quo.
Private Equity Enters the Chat
College athletics is entering a new financial era, and the Big 12 is right in the thick of it. Last week, the University of Utah made headlines by finalizing a private equity deal with Otro Capital-a move that’s expected to generate around $500 million for its athletic department. But Utah’s not alone in rethinking the playbook.
The Big 12 is reportedly closing in on its own private equity partnership with RedBird Capital and Weatherford Capital. The deal would bring in a similar $500 million across the conference, with each member school having the option to access up to $30 million in immediate cash.
It’s a bold move-and one that signals a clear intent from commissioner Brett Yormark and the Big 12 leadership: stay competitive with the Big Ten and SEC, or risk falling behind. This isn’t just about revenue; it’s about survival and growth in a rapidly changing college sports landscape. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but it’s clear the Big 12 is willing to get creative to keep pace.
A Coaching Era Ends: Kyle Whittingham to Step Down
One of college football’s most respected figures is stepping away. Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham announced he’ll be retiring at the end of the season, closing the book on a remarkable tenure that began all the way back in 2005.
Whittingham has been a fixture in Salt Lake City for over three decades, joining the staff in 1994 before taking over the top job. In that time, he’s built Utah into a consistent winner-capturing three conference championships across the Mountain West and Pac-12, earning multiple Coach of the Year honors, and compiling a 177-88 record with 11 bowl wins.
His legacy is cemented. Whittingham didn’t just build a program-he helped elevate Utah to national relevance.
Whether he chooses full retirement or a new challenge elsewhere, his impact on the game is undeniable. And when the College Football Hall of Fame comes calling, don’t be surprised-his résumé speaks for itself.
The F-Bomb Heard 'Round the Cy-Hawk Rivalry
Rivalry games bring out the passion-and sometimes, the profanity. During the Cy-Hawk basketball game, South Dakota State head football coach Jimmy Rogers was introduced to the crowd at halftime.
His message? “Let’s cheer on Coach Otz and beat the f***ing Hawks!”
The crowd loved it. The moment went viral. And while not everyone appreciated the language, it’s hard to deny the authenticity behind it.
Sure, dropping an F-bomb on the mic isn’t exactly textbook PR. But in the heat of a rivalry, with emotions running high and fans hanging on every word, it’s not out of the ordinary.
Anyone who’s been to a college basketball game-or really any intense sporting event-knows that kind of language isn’t rare. It’s part of the atmosphere, part of the raw, unfiltered energy that makes college sports what they are.
Rogers was hyping up the home crowd. Did he go over the top?
Maybe. But in a rivalry setting, that kind of fire is often welcomed with open arms.
Final Thoughts
From individual brilliance to institutional change, the Big 12 continues to be one of the most fascinating conferences in college sports. Jacob Rodriguez’s snub, the rise of private equity, the end of an era for Kyle Whittingham, and the heat of a rivalry moment all speak to the passion, evolution, and unpredictability that define this league.
One thing’s for sure-there’s never a dull week in the Big 12.