Unexpected Leaders Emerge in Unpredictable Big 12 Season

Teams like BYU, Iowa State, and Colorado defy preseason expectations, while traditional powerhouses struggle in the expanded 16-team conference.

BYU remains undefeated at 8-0, securing a top spot in the Big 12 standings and exceeding expectations as a preseason underdog.
Iowa State, currently 7-0, boasts a strong defense and aims for its first 8-0 start in program history, maintaining control over its conference destiny.
Kansas State, living up to its preseason ranking, is positioned just behind the leaders, with a critical season finale against Iowa State looming.
Colorado, under Coach Deion Sanders, has become bowl eligible and is a contender for the conference title, driven by standout performances from Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders.
Powerhouse teams like Utah, Oklahoma State, and Kansas have underperformed, sitting at the bottom of the standings despite high preseason expectations.