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For the first time in years, there’s nothing predictable about the Big 12. After Oklahoma’s six-year stranglehold on the top spot ended last year, Baylor and Oklahoma State look like contenders again. The Sooners always get the benefit of the doubt, but first-year coaching transitions aren’t always easy. Just ask Texas and Steve Sarkisian. Even Kansas State has the potential to threaten the league’s top tier. There’s a new era dawning, with Texas and OU nearing the end of their time and four new teams arriving next year. There’s a defensive swagger around the league now, and this season could be as wild as last.
Welcome to the new Big 12.
Storylines to watch
1. The Brent Venables era begins in Norman
Lincoln Riley did a lot in his five seasons as Oklahoma head coach, with three College Football Playoff appearances and a couple of Heisman Trophy winners, leaving plenty of curiosity as to how Venables’ tenure begins. While the Sooners had just one preseason All-Big 12 player (a punter!) and just 10 returning starters, there is reason for optimism with transfer quarterback Dillion Gabriel in from UCF, who is reunited with offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby behind a talented offensive line. Despite just five returning defensive starters, Venables’ impact is expected to be seen on that side of the ball as well, given the success he had at Clemson for years.
2. The heightened expectations in Steve Sarkisian’s second season
There are always big expectations at Texas, and those have increased going into Sarkisian’s second season. ESPN’s College Football Power Index was updated in July for the 2022 preseason, and the Longhorns ranked No. 7, with a 39.8% chance to win the Big 12, with Oklahoma just behind them at No. 8 and a 28.1% chance to win the conference. While the quarterback…
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Source : espn
