The Big 12 Conference is one of the most competitive and exciting conferences in college football. With powerhouse programs like Texas and Oklahoma, the race for the Big 12 title is always intense. As we look ahead to the 2023 season, let’s analyze the Big 12 title odds and make some top recommendations for Texas, Oklahoma, and other teams in the conference.
1. Texas Longhorns:
The Texas Longhorns have always been a force to reckon with in the Big 12. Under new head coach Steve Sarkisian, expectations are high for the program. Despite a disappointing 2022 season, the Longhorns have a talented roster and a strong recruiting class coming in. With experienced quarterback Hudson Card leading the offense, Texas has a legitimate shot at the Big 12 title. However, their success will heavily depend on improving their defense, which was a weak point last season.
2. Oklahoma Sooners:
The Oklahoma Sooners have been the dominant force in the Big 12 for years. With Lincoln Riley departing for USC, the Sooners have a new head coach in Brent Venables. Despite losing star quarterback Spencer Rattler to the NFL draft, Oklahoma has a history of producing top-tier quarterbacks. Caleb Williams, who showed great potential in his limited playing time last season, will likely take over the reins. The Sooners’ offense is always potent, but their defense needs improvement to compete at the highest level. Nevertheless, Oklahoma remains one of the top favorites to win the Big 12 title.
3. Iowa State Cyclones:
The Iowa State Cyclones have emerged as a legitimate contender in recent years under head coach Matt Campbell. They finished the 2021 season with an impressive record and made it to the Fiesta Bowl. With quarterback Brock Purdy returning for his senior year, the Cyclones have a reliable leader on offense. Their defense has been consistently strong, and with key players returning, they have the potential to challenge for the Big 12 title. Iowa State’s success will hinge on their ability to win crucial conference matchups against Texas and Oklahoma.
4. TCU Horned Frogs:
The TCU Horned Frogs have been a consistent presence in the Big 12, often causing upsets against higher-ranked opponents. Under head coach Gary Patterson, TCU has built a reputation for its strong defense. However, the offense has been inconsistent in recent years. If the Horned Frogs can find a reliable quarterback and improve their offensive production, they could surprise many and contend for the Big 12 title. TCU’s success will largely depend on their ability to win close games and pull off upsets against the conference’s top teams.
5. Baylor Bears:
The Baylor Bears had a remarkable turnaround in the 2021 season, winning the Big 12 title under first-year head coach Dave Aranda. They showcased a strong defense and an efficient offense led by quarterback Gerry Bohanon. While they may not be the favorites to repeat as champions, the Bears have proven that they can compete at a high level. If they can maintain their defensive prowess and continue to develop their offensive playmakers, Baylor could be a dark horse in the Big 12 title race.
In conclusion, the Big 12 Conference promises another thrilling season in 2023. Texas and Oklahoma remain the perennial favorites, but teams like Iowa State, TCU, and Baylor are poised to challenge them. The key factors for success will be improving defensive performances, finding reliable quarterbacks, and winning crucial conference matchups. As fans eagerly await the start of the season, it’s clear that the race for the Big 12 title will be fiercely competitive and unpredictable.