Big 12 power rankings: week 4 edition
The Big 12 conference has experienced a roller-coaster start to the season, with a striking gap emerging between its top and bottom teams. Here are the current Big 12 power rankings as we head into week five.
- Texas
The Texas Longhorns are making a statement this season, handling their opponents with ease, especially in their recent road victory against Baylor. The dynamic duo of Quinn Ewers and Xavier Worthy is currently wreaking havoc, making Texas a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12. The preseason Big 12 favorite leads this week’s power rankings and is gearing up for a potentially thrilling showdown against Kansas at home this Saturday.
2. Kansas
The Kansas Jayhawks have showcased a high-flying offense to start the season, consistently scoring 30 or more points in every game. They kicked off Big 12 play with a victory over BYU, winning 38-27. Quarterback Jalon Daniels and running back Devin Neal have been instrumental in the Jayhawks’ success on the ground. Kansas occupies the second spot in the power rankings and faces a challenging road game against Texas this week.
3. Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Sooners are on a roll, boasting a formidable defense that has allowed a mere 8.5 points per game. They initiated their Big 12 campaign with an unattractive 20-6 win against newcomer Cincinnati. While the Sooners’ offense hasn’t displayed its full explosiveness, the defense has been making games competitive. Oklahoma squares off against Iowa State this Saturday.
4. Kansas State
The reigning Big 12 champions, Kansas State, showcased an impressive performance against newcomer UCF. Quarterback Will Howard has reaffirmed the Wildcats’ status as contenders for the Big 12 title. Despite a heart-wrenching loss to SEC opponent Missouri, Kansas State remains a formidable team. With a bye week ahead, they will prepare for a showdown with Oklahoma State in Stillwater.
5. TCU
TCU, last season’s national title runner-up, has been quietly making its presence felt. A shocking loss to Colorado as 21-point favorites was followed by dominant wins over Nicholls State, Houston, and SMU. Quarterback Chandler Morris has established himself as one of the conference’s top QBs, making TCU a challenging opponent. However, their defense remains a question mark.
6. BYU
BYU secured a significant road win against Arkansas but struggled in a loss to Kansas. While their passing game remains potent, improving their running game is the next step for this team. BYU faces fellow Big 12 newcomer Cincinnati in Provo on Friday night.
7. UCF
UCF, another Big 12 newcomer, faced a tough conference debut, falling short against Kansas State. The Golden Knights displayed a potent offense but struggled defensively, a common issue in the Big 12. Quarterback Timmy McClain shows promise, but their defense remains a concern.
8. West Virginia
West Virginia has defied expectations, winning the backyard brawl against Pitt and defeating Texas Tech. Head coach Neal Brown’s underdog mentality is paying off, and the Mountaineers have silenced doubters. They face a tough test against TCU this Saturday.
9. Cincinnati
Cincinnati came close to upsetting Oklahoma but fell short due to offensive miscues. Quarterback Emory Jones made costly errors. The Bearcats look to rebound against BYU in a game with significant implications.
10. Iowa State
Iowa State bounced back from a loss to Ohio with a win against Oklahoma State. Their offense showed promise, scoring 34 points led by quarterback Rocco Becht. Prior to the Oklahoma State matchup, the Cyclone offense was averaging a little over 17 points per game. They face a stern test against Oklahoma Saturday.
11. Texas Tech
Texas Tech has had a disastrous start to the season, including losses to Wyoming, Oregon, and West Virginia, coupled with a season-ending injury to Tyler Shough. They must win against Houston to salvage their season.
12. Houston
Houston’s season has been unpredictable, with wins over UTSA and Sam Houston State but a lackluster offensive performance against TCU. They seek answers against a struggling Texas Tech squad.
13. Oklahoma State
Oklahoma State is struggling, with losses to South Alabama and Iowa State. They face a challenging schedule ahead. Head coach Mike Gundy might have a challenging and long season ahead.
14. Baylor
Baylor is facing a challenging season, with quarterback Blake Shapen out and disappointing performances. They are currently at the bottom of the power rankings but hope to rebound when Shapen returns.
Please note that this power ranking reflects the situation as of the given week and may change as the season progresses.
