**2025 Big 12 Football Preseason Preview and Projections**

Okay, here’s a summary of the college football team previews from the provided text, focusing on key points for each team. I’ll organize it by team name.

Arizona State Sun Devils

Key Strength: defense, led by talented coordinator Brian Ward. Expected to be near the top of the Big 12.
Offensive Focus: More passing this year, with Jordyn Tyson stepping up as a receiver.
Overall: High expectations – the roster needs to deliver.
Star Player: Sam Leavitt

Baylor Bears

Key Strength: Returning starters across the board.
Quarterback: Sawyer Robertson – a modern QB who can avoid pressure and run. had a very good TD/INT ratio last year (28 TDs, 8 INTs).
Overall: Underrated by the country; high expectations in Waco.

BYU Cougars

Biggest Question: Who will be the starting quarterback? A competition could hurt team chemistry.
Other Strengths: Strong offensive line and skill position players outside of the QB situation.
Overall: The QB question needs to be resolved quickly.

UCF Knights

Recruiting: Top 8 transfer class, but lowest-rated recruiting class. Has recruited well in recent seasons. Coaching: Scott Frost is back as head coach.
Overall: A wildcard, aiming for bowl eligibility.Oddsmakers project 5.5 wins.

Cincinnati Bearcats

recruiting: Not impressive in terms of transfer or customary recruiting classes. Second-worst overall class in the Big 12.
Key Strength: 10 returning starters, including dual-threat quarterback Brendan Sorsby.
Key Challenge: Replacing the production of running back Corey kiner.
* Overall: Potential for a winning season if they can replace Kiner’s production.

Colorado Buffaloes

The text ends mid-sentence for Colorado, so I cannot provide a summary for that team.

How will the integration of Arizona and Utah impact the competitive balance within the Big 12 Conference?

Conference Realignment & The New Landscape

The 2025 big 12 football season marks a important turning point. With the additions of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Arizona State, the conference boasts a 16-team structure and a renewed sense of competition. This expansion dramatically alters the Big 12 football rankings landscape and introduces new rivalries. Understanding these shifts is crucial for accurate college football predictions and Big 12 football analysis. The departure of Texas and Oklahoma leaves a void, but the incoming programs bring their own established fanbases and competitive spirit.

Projected Top 5 Teams

Based on returning starters, coaching stability, and recruiting success, here’s a look at the projected top 5 teams in the big 12 for 2025:

1. Oklahoma State: The Cowboys are poised for another strong season. Returning quarterback Alan Bowman and a solid offensive line give them a significant advantage. Expect them to be contenders for the Big 12 championship.
2. Kansas State: Chris Klieman continues to build a consistent winner in Manhattan. A strong running game and a disciplined defense will make them a tough out for anyone.Their success hinges on developing a reliable passing attack.
3. colorado: Deion Sanders’ impact is undeniable. While questions remain about depth, the Buffaloes’ recruiting haul and offensive firepower make them a team to watch. Colorado football is generating national buzz, and they’ll be looking to capitalize.
4. Iowa State: Matt Campbell consistently maximizes his talent. A veteran defense and a developing offense could propel the Cyclones into the upper echelon of the conference.
5. Arizona: Jedd Fisch has quickly turned the Wildcats into a competitive program. A strong passing game and improved recruiting should translate to continued success in their new conference home.

Key players to Watch

Several players are expected to make a significant impact in the 2025 big 12 season:

Alan Bowman (Oklahoma State, QB): A veteran signal-caller with a strong arm and excellent decision-making skills.

DJ Giddens (Kansas State, RB): A powerful runner who can break tackles and wear down defenses.

Shedeur Sanders (Colorado, QB): A dynamic quarterback with a knack for making big plays. His performance is critical for Colorado’s football success.

Abu Samaa (Iowa State, LB): A tackling machine and the leader of the Cyclones’ defense.

Noah Fifita (Arizona,QB): A rising star with a strong arm and impressive accuracy.

Conference Breakdown: Tiered Analysis

To further refine our Big 12 football outlook, let’s break down the conference into tiers:

Tier 1: Championship Contenders

Oklahoma State

kansas State

Colorado

Tier 2: Bowl Eligible & Potential Upsetters

Iowa state

Arizona

Utah

Texas Tech

Tier 3: Building Programs

Arizona State

Baylor

Cincinnati

Houston

TCU

West Virginia

kansas

BYU

Coaching Carousel Impact & Stability

The coaching landscape within the Big 12 is relatively stable heading into 2025. though, the performance of programs like Arizona State and Baylor will be under intense scrutiny.coaching stability is a key factor in Big 12 football predictions, as consistent leadership often translates to improved recruiting and on-field results. Programs with established coaching staffs, like oklahoma State and Kansas State, have a clear advantage.

Impact of the Transfer Portal

the NCAA transfer portal continues to reshape college football rosters. The Big 12 has seen significant activity in the portal, with teams adding key pieces to address positional needs. Colorado, in particular, has been aggressive in utilizing the portal to bolster its roster. Monitoring transfer portal activity is essential for staying up-to-date on Big 12 football news and adjusting football betting odds.

Game of the year predictions

Colorado at Oklahoma State (November 8th): A potential conference championship preview featuring two of the league’s top teams.

Kansas State at Arizona (October 25th): A clash between two strong programs with contrasting styles of play.

Utah at Iowa state (November 15th): A key matchup that could determine bowl eligibility for both teams.

Betting Odds & Futures

(Disclaimer: Betting odds are subject to change. Consult reputable sportsbooks for the most up-to-date data.)

As of August 17, 2025, Oklahoma State is the favorite to win the Big 12 Championship, with odds around +250. Colorado and Kansas State are close behind, with odds of +300 and +350, respectively. The Big 12 football odds* reflect the perceived strength of each team and their chances of success.

Recruiting Landscape: Future Outlook

Recruiting remains vital for long-term success. Colorado’s recent recruiting success has significantly raised their profile, but Oklahoma State and Kansas State consistently secure top talent within the region. The influx of new programs like Arizona and Utah will also impact the recruiting landscape, creating