The anticipation for the 2025 Big 12 football season is already building, with fans eagerly awaiting key matchups and potential surprises. As the league enters its second year with an expanded roster of 16 teams, stability in membership offers programs a chance to establish themselves as consistent powerhouses. Despite the fluid nature of rosters and coaching staffs, the winter transfer portal has closed, providing a clearer picture of how teams might stack up. This early forecast aims to provide insight into the upcoming season's potential leaders and challengers.
Potential Powerhouses and Rising Stars
Several teams are poised to dominate or surprise in the 2025 Big 12 football landscape. BYU, Arizona State, and Iowa State lead the pack, each bringing unique strengths and challenges into the new season. BYU, fresh off an impressive 2024 campaign, returns key players and boasts a formidable defense. Meanwhile, Arizona State must adapt without Cam Skattebo but retains valuable offensive talent. Iowa State, coming off a historic 11-win season, faces questions about head coach Matt Campbell's future but remains a formidable contender.
BYU's leadership under Kalani Sitake enters its tenth season, with a deep roster that includes standout quarterback Jake Retzlaff and a top-tier linebacker unit. The Cougars' defense, which led the Big 12 last year, will be crucial in maintaining their position at the top. Arizona State, despite losing Skattebo, brings back Sam Leavitt and Jordyn Tyson, while Army transfer Kanye Udoh looks set to fill the running back role. Iowa State's Rocco Becht enters his third year as starting quarterback, supported by returning running backs Carson Hansen and Abu Sama. The Cyclones also enjoy a favorable home schedule, adding to their potential for success.
Underdogs and Teams on the Rise
Beyond the top contenders, several teams are primed to make significant strides in 2025. Kansas State, Texas Tech, and Baylor each have reasons to be optimistic, with varying degrees of rebuilding and reinforcements. K-State, despite a strong finish in 2024, needs Avery Johnson to elevate his game to reclaim top status. Texas Tech, under Joey McGuire, secured a talented transfer class and aims to build on its eight-win season. Baylor, after a late-season surge, returns key players like Sawyer Robertson and Bryson Washington, aiming to break through and challenge for the top spots.
Kansas State, led by Chris Klieman, must address quarterback consistency to improve on its nine-win record. The Wildcats' ability to maintain a winning streak will hinge on Johnson's performance and the team's defensive strength. Texas Tech's focus is on integrating transfers, particularly in the offensive line, and monitoring quarterback Behren Morton's recovery from shoulder surgery. Baylor, under Dave Aranda, showed promise with a six-game winning streak and now seeks to sustain momentum, leveraging its potent offense and returning stars. Each of these teams holds the potential to disrupt the established order and create exciting storylines throughout the season.