The Big 12’s 2025 season has been nothing short of unpredictable. With realignment reshaping rivalries and redefining competition, several programs have found themselves thriving in new territory—while others continue to struggle for footing. From surprise contenders climbing the standings to long-established powers facing identity crises, the conference has delivered storylines filled with drama, disappointment, and resurgence.
#13: Oklahoma State (0–6 Conf., 0–9 Conf. last season)
Photo Cred: Arizona Desert Swarm
Coming off an abysmal first year in the newly aligned Big 12, Oklahoma State hit rock bottom with nowhere to go but up—or so it seemed. Unfortunately, the Cowboys have somehow regressed. Despite being aggressive in the transfer portal, they lost several key starters and never found rhythm early on. After an 0–3 start, the program made a seismic change, firing longtime head coach Mike Gundy after 21 seasons. Doug Meacham has stepped in as interim head coach, tasked with keeping the program afloat as the search for a permanent replacement begins. With bowl hopes already dashed, Oklahoma State is focused on regrouping and redefining its identity for 2026.
#14: Arizona (2–3 Conf., 2–7 Conf. last season)
Photo Cred: Arizona
After a disappointing 2024 season marred by the absence of head coach Jedd Fisch, Arizona entered this year with tempered expectations. Losing star receiver Tetairoa McMillan to the NFL draft left quarterback Noah Fifita without a proven playmaker. Still, under second-year head coach Brent Brennan, the Wildcats have become one of the Big 12’s most underrated teams. Sitting at 5–3 after a dominant win over Colorado, they’ve been just a few possessions away from a potential 7–1 record. Bowl eligibility is within reach, and while a conference title shot is unlikely, the program’s trajectory is finally pointing upward.
#15: UCF (1–4 Conf., 2–7 Conf. last season)
Photo Cred: UCF
Following a disappointing campaign and the departure of Gus Malzahn, UCF turned to a familiar face, bringing back former head coach Scott Frost to restore the Knights’ competitive edge. Frost emphasized building depth and toughness, retooling the wide receiver group and offensive line to fit his system. This season was expected to be a rebuilding year, with goals centered on staying competitive and pulling off upsets. However, after a loss to Baylor dropped them to 1–4 in conference play, UCF’s struggles persist. With three of their final four opponents sitting near the top of the Big 12 standings, the Knights face an uphill climb toward bowl eligibility.
#16: West Virginia (1–5 Conf., 5–4 Conf. last season)
Photo Cred: College Football News
After finishing in the middle of the pack last year, West Virginia opted for a complete overhaul under new head coach Rich Rodriguez. The program brought in more than 60 new players through recruiting and the transfer portal, leaving just 42 from last season’s roster. As expected, the Mountaineers have faced growing pains, sitting near the bottom of the conference despite an impressive upset win over Houston. Rodriguez’s youth-heavy roster shows flashes of promise but lacks the consistency to compete weekly. While postseason hopes are slim, West Virginia’s rebuild is underway with an eye on long-term development.
