The Big 12 is making noise before the first down of 2026 is even played-and not just within its own echo chamber. Four of its teams have landed spots on a composite way-too-early Top 25, a consensus built from a wide swath of national outlets.
We’re talking ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS, Yahoo, and more. This isn’t just a pat on the back-it’s a sign that the Big 12 is finally earning some national respect.
Here’s the rundown: Texas Tech comes in hot at No. 7, BYU checks in at No.
11, Utah grabs No. 18, and Houston sneaks into the mix at No. 24.
That’s four programs in the preseason spotlight from a league that’s often playing catch-up in the national narrative. And make no mistake-this isn’t charity.
This is about performance, potential, and perception finally aligning for the Big 12.
No. 7 Texas Tech: Explosive and Evolving
Let’s start at the top with Texas Tech. The Red Raiders were one of the most electric offenses in college football last season.
They didn’t just score points-they did it with style, tempo, and a level of creativity that had defensive coordinators scrambling. With a strong core returning and reinforcements arriving through the transfer portal and recruiting trail, expectations are sky-high in Lubbock.
Sure, the playoff loss to Oregon left a sour taste, but that doesn't erase what Tech accomplished. The ranking reflects belief in their trajectory.
The talent is there. The scheme is proven.
Now it’s about taking that next step-competing not just for a playoff spot, but for a national title.
No. 11 BYU: Built to Last
Right behind them at No. 11 is BYU, a team that quietly finished last season on a high note. While they missed out on the playoff, they showed resilience, consistency, and a knack for finding ways to win late in the year. That momentum, paired with returning talent, has voters buying in.
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier is the centerpiece here. He’s already turned heads, and with another offseason under his belt, he’s poised to take another leap. BYU’s physical style of play, combined with Bachmeier’s growth, makes them a serious threat in the Big 12-and beyond.
No. 18 Utah: The Standard of Consistency
Utah at No. 18 feels like a nod to what they’ve built over the years. Under Kyle Whittingham, the Utes became synonymous with toughness, discipline, and big-game readiness. Now, it’s Morgan Scalley’s turn to lead the program, and while transitions can bring turbulence, Utah’s foundation is strong enough to weather it.
This ranking says a lot about national confidence in the culture at Utah. They don’t rebuild-they reload. And if Scalley can maintain that edge, Utah will continue to be a problem for anyone on the schedule.
No. 24 Houston: Buzz Meets Belief
Then there’s Houston, sliding in at No. 24.
This one might surprise some folks, but those who’ve been paying attention know the Cougars have been trending up. Willie Fritz has brought a new energy to the program, and it’s not just hype-it’s substance.
Houston’s inclusion in the Top 25 suggests they’re not just here to fill out the conference-they’re ready to compete. The roster’s improving, the culture’s shifting, and the expectations are rising. That’s a dangerous combination for a team with something to prove.
The Bigger Picture: A Conference on the Rise
Preseason rankings are never gospel, but they do tell a story. And the story here is that the Big 12 is no longer being treated as a second-tier league.
Four teams in the Top 25 before the season even begins? That’s not a courtesy nod.
That’s recognition of depth, development, and legitimate potential.
If these projections hold-or even come close-the Big 12 could be one of the most compelling leagues in college football this fall. With high-powered offenses, rising quarterbacks, and programs on the upswing, the conference is positioned to make serious noise in 2026.
So buckle up. The Big 12 isn’t just participating in the national conversation anymore. It’s helping drive it.