Big 12 Media Days kicked off in Frisco, Texas, marking the anticipation for another thrilling season. Notably, the Big 12 will not produce an official preseason media poll for 2025. This decision, made by Commissioner Brett Yormark, stems from concerns regarding last year’s impact on Arizona State, who were projected last but ultimately claimed the conference title.

Without a formal poll, 247Sports has stepped in, conducting a survey among its Big 12 team site staff to create a composite projection ahead of the new season.

The consensus suggests a balanced conference filled with potential, with Arizona State leading as reigning champions, boasting the highest number of returning starters across the Power Four leagues. Despite the loss of standout running back Cam Skattebo, quarterback Sam Leavitt is set to guide the team as they aim to build upon their impressive College Football Playoff performance.

Contenders like Baylor, Iowa State, Kansas State, and Texas Tech are hardly far behind, each receiving first-place votes, making the contest for the title vastly unpredictable due to an influx of transfer talent and skilled quarterbacks throughout the league.

Conversely, Oklahoma State is undergoing a significant transformation after a disappointing 2024 season that concluded without a win in conference play. Coach Mike Gundy faces the challenge of integrating over 60 new athletes into a cohesive unit. Meanwhile, UCF and West Virginia are turning back to experienced coaches, welcoming back Scott Frost and Rich Rodriguez, respectively, to attempt their respective resurgences.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, seven Big 12 teams start the 2025 season with title odds of +1000 or better, highlighting the competitiveness of the upcoming season.

Arizona State

233 points | 5 first-place votes Arizona State starts 2025 as the frontrunner in the Big 12, returning a majority of their squad from last year’s championship campaign. Despite a key loss in star running back Cam Skattebo, quarterback Sam Leavitt’s strong performance last season places Arizona State in a favorable position as they aim for another championship. Conference title odds: +600

Kansas State

231 points | 5 first-place votes Kansas State hopes for significant growth from quarterback Avery Johnson, whose performance last season hindered the team’s title aspirations. With a solid history under coach Chris Klieman, Kansas State remains a formidable challenger. Conference title odds: +600

Texas Tech

213 points | 4 first-place votes Texas Tech adopts a high-stakes approach in 2025, leveraging a significant NIL strategy that has enhanced their transfer class. Ready for a strong team performance, they are positioned for a potential breakout season. Conference title odds: +650

Baylor

213 points | 1 first-place vote Baylor looks to build on last season’s success, with quarterback Sawyer Robertson leading a strong offensive lineup. If the defense improves, they could return to title contention. Conference title odds: +650

Iowa State

191 points | 1 first-place vote Iowa State, following their best season yet, retains a majority of their starters accompanied by a reliable quarterback, setting them up for another successful campaign. Conference title odds: +1000

Utah

176 points With a revamped coaching strategy and a new dynamic quarterback, Utah is placing their hopes on a rebound year post a disappointing previous season. Conference title odds: +600

TCU

158 points TCU heads into the season with stability under Josh Hoover, aiming to continue their offensive success from last year while enhancing their defensive strategies. Conference title odds: +800

Kansas

140 points Veteran quarterback Jalon Daniels is expected to lead a determined Kansas squad aiming to improve upon a near-bowl absence last season. Conference title odds: +1600

BYU

137 points Concerns around quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s potential transfer add uncertainty for BYU heading into the season with significant implications for their prospects. Conference title odds: +1800

Colorado

127 points Challenges await Colorado as coach Deion Sanders navigates the absence of key players and prepares a new roster while integrating promising transfers. Conference title odds: +3000

Houston

81 points Under coach Willie Fritz, Houston seeks to capitalize on new quarterback Conner Weigman’s potential to elevate their standing within the league. Conference title odds: +2900

Cincinnati

76 points Cincinnati faces a pivotal year with a new leader in coach Scott Satterfield, who aims to elevate their underperforming program. Conference title odds: +2800

Oklahoma State

74 points With a difficult year behind them, the Cowboys have undergone a massive roster overhaul. Coach Gundy’s ability to unite this new group remains critical for future success. Conference title odds: +5000

West Virginia

61 points Rich Rodriguez returns to West Virginia tasked with revitalizing the program amidst considerable roster changes. Conference title odds: +4200

UCF

38 points Scott Frost’s second stint aims to reshape UCF’s future after a tumultuous previous experience at Nebraska. Conference title odds: +6000

Arizona

35 points Noah Fifita leads a seasoned Arizona team under new coaching, striving for consistent performance against tough competition. Conference title odds: +5000