2024 Big 12 football preview: Projections and players to watch reveal an exciting new chapter for the conference. With Oklahoma and Texas now gone, the arrival of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah has sparked a fresh sense of competition. This season, the league is marked by an unprecedented balance among the top 12 teams, setting the stage for thrilling matchups.
In recent years, Utah and Kansas State have proven their mettle by clinching conference titles. However, teams like Oklahoma State, Kansas, and Arizona are poised to make their mark. West Virginia, Iowa State, and Colorado are also eager to showcase their tenacity in this new landscape.
Fans can anticipate a season filled with intense rivalries and standout performances. Here’s a look at the key games and players to watch in the revamped Big 12:
Top five conference games to watch:
No. 12 Utah at No. 17 Oklahoma State (Sept. 21)
This matchup features two seasoned quarterbacks, Cam Rising of Utah and Alan Bowman of Oklahoma State, both in their seventh year of eligibility. This clash could foreshadow the Big 12 title game, offering a chance to gauge the expectations for the season ahead.
No. 21 Arizona at No. 18 Kansas State (Sept. 13, 8 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app)
Arizona enters its inaugural Big 12 season with a dynamic aerial attack led by quarterback Noah Fifita and standout receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Fifita’s impressive 527 yards against Arizona State last year and McMillan’s 1,400 receiving yards make this a game to watch.
No. 18 Kansas State at Colorado (Oct. 12)
Dubbed the Dylan Edwards Bowl, this game features the former CU tailback now playing for K-State. The Wildcats, champions two years ago, will look to solidify their CFP aspirations against a Colorado team that is gaining popularity.
No. 23 Iowa State at No. 12 Utah (Nov. 23)
Iowa State, with quarterback Rocco Becht and receiver Jayden Higgins, presents a formidable challenge for Utah. If the Cyclones remain competitive for a conference title spot, this game could prove pivotal in the Big 12 landscape.
Colorado vs No. 17 Oklahoma State (Nov. 29)
This game highlights two of college football’s most charismatic coaches and features several NFL Draft prospects. If Colorado establishes itself as a contender, this matchup will be critical in measuring their strength.
Top five players to watch:
Travis Hunter, WR/CB and Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
As two of the biggest names in college football, Hunter and Sanders are essential to Colorado’s success. Sanders achieved remarkable stats last season, throwing for 3,320 yards and 27 touchdowns, earning him the title of Pac-12 Newcomer of the Year.
With no clear Heisman favorite this year, both players have the potential to capture national attention if Colorado excels.
Ollie Gordon, RB, Oklahoma State
Gordon stands as the nation’s leading running back, having rushed for over 1,700 yards last season. His performance could guide Oklahoma State toward a potential College Football Playoff berth.
Jalon Daniels, QB, Kansas
Daniels is known for his explosive playmaking ability. If he stays healthy, he could achieve remarkable passing and rushing milestones, placing Kansas on the brink of greatness.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Tahj Brooks, RB, Texas Tech
Top five freshmen to watch:
Jordan Seaton, OT, Colorado
Seaton’s performance will be crucial for Colorado’s offensive line. As a five-star recruit, he is expected to make an immediate impact, helping to protect quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
Jayshon Ridgle, OT, Houston
Ridgle brings impressive speed and versatility to the offensive line. His ability to adapt will be vital for Houston as they adjust to their new roster dynamics.
DJ Warner, DE, Kansas
Warner is a highly ranked recruit and is anticipated to be a game-changer for Kansas. His presence on the defensive line could significantly enhance the team’s performance.
Micah Hudson, WR, Texas Tech
Hudson enters the season as Texas Tech’s highest-ranked recruit ever, and expectations are high. His performance could place him among the elite wide receivers in the school’s history.
Jadon Porter, WR, Baylor
Porter is a promising four-star recruit who may have a breakout season under new offensive coordinator Jake Spavital’s air-raid scheme, allowing him to showcase his skills effectively.
Conference championship: Utah
With quarterback Cam Rising leading the charge, Utah aims to continue its winning streak after back-to-back Pac-12 titles. Until another program proves otherwise, Utah remains the team to beat in the Big 12.
