Big 12 Football Preview 2018
By Matt Hetzler
#1 Texas 11-1 (8-1)
Coach: Tom Herman
Offensive Coordinator: Tim Beck and Herb Hand
Defensive Coordinator: Todd Orlando
Stadium: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (100,119)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 5-7
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Tim Beck and Herb Hand
Defensive Coordinator: Todd Orlando
Stadium: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (100,119)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 5-7
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 8-5
Overview
Tom Herman’s first season in Austin didn’t turn out as expected. Texas continued the many years of sluggish performances and mediocre football. Herman returns a solid core on both sides of the ball. QB Sam Ehlinger made 6 starts as a true freshman and figures to be the starter heading into the new season. Ehlinger struggled in the passing game and actually led the Longhorns in rushing (which isn’t good). Freshman RB Keaontay Ingram has thrust himself to the top of the depth chart. Ingram provides an explosive “wow” factor that the Longhorns have missed for many years. Collin Johnson and Lil’Jordan Humphrey were the top two receivers for Texas in ‘17, both return. Johnson finished with 54 receptions and 765 yards. Texas returns 3 starters on the offensive and adds Rice grad transfer Calvin Anderson, who was highly coveted by many power 5 teams.
Texas ended up the 2017 season with the 2nd best defense in the Big 12. The Longhorns will need to replace Malik Jefferson who departed for the NFL. Breckyn Hager and Charles Omenihu finished with 4 sacks each last season. The duo is joined by Chris Nelson on the line and should be one of the better defensive lines in the Big 12. Texas will have one of the best trio of starting linebackers in the conference. Malcolm Roach, Gary Johnson, and Anthony Wheeler are crafty veterans that will carry the defense. Kris Boyd led the Texas secondary with 15 PBU in ‘17. Texas will turn to freshmen Cameron Dicker and Ryan Bujcevski to handle the kicking duties.
Texas opens the season with a revenge game against the Maryland Terrapins. The Longhorns then host Tulsa, USC and TCU in the Big 12 opener in consecutive weeks. If Texas can start the season 4-0, there may be no stopping this team. Texas gets some relief in the B12 schedule this season. Oklahoma State is their toughest opponent on the road. If Herman can get the offense clicking, the sky's the limit for this team. It’s a young but talented team and with the schedule advantage over the rest of the teams in the conference, I really like them this season. I’m predicting Texas to be one of the biggest surprises of the 2018 season.
Texas ended up the 2017 season with the 2nd best defense in the Big 12. The Longhorns will need to replace Malik Jefferson who departed for the NFL. Breckyn Hager and Charles Omenihu finished with 4 sacks each last season. The duo is joined by Chris Nelson on the line and should be one of the better defensive lines in the Big 12. Texas will have one of the best trio of starting linebackers in the conference. Malcolm Roach, Gary Johnson, and Anthony Wheeler are crafty veterans that will carry the defense. Kris Boyd led the Texas secondary with 15 PBU in ‘17. Texas will turn to freshmen Cameron Dicker and Ryan Bujcevski to handle the kicking duties.
Texas opens the season with a revenge game against the Maryland Terrapins. The Longhorns then host Tulsa, USC and TCU in the Big 12 opener in consecutive weeks. If Texas can start the season 4-0, there may be no stopping this team. Texas gets some relief in the B12 schedule this season. Oklahoma State is their toughest opponent on the road. If Herman can get the offense clicking, the sky's the limit for this team. It’s a young but talented team and with the schedule advantage over the rest of the teams in the conference, I really like them this season. I’m predicting Texas to be one of the biggest surprises of the 2018 season.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Sam Ehlinger, SO, QB
Rushing
Sam Ehlinger, SO, QB
Receiving
Collin Johnson, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kris Boyd, SR, CB and Davante Davis, SR, CB
Sacks
Breckyn Hager, SR, DE and Charles Omemihu, SR, DE
Tackles
Brandon Jones, JR, FS
Passing
Sam Ehlinger, SO, QB
Rushing
Sam Ehlinger, SO, QB
Receiving
Collin Johnson, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kris Boyd, SR, CB and Davante Davis, SR, CB
Sacks
Breckyn Hager, SR, DE and Charles Omemihu, SR, DE
Tackles
Brandon Jones, JR, FS
Schedule
#2T Oklahoma 10-2 (7-2)
Coach: Lincoln Riley
Offensive Coordinator: Bill Bedenbaugh, Cale Gundy
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Stoops
Stadium: Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (84,389)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 12-2
2016 11-2
2015 11-2
2014 8-5
2013 11-2
Offensive Coordinator: Bill Bedenbaugh, Cale Gundy
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Stoops
Stadium: Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (84,389)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 12-2
2016 11-2
2015 11-2
2014 8-5
2013 11-2
Overview
When Bob Stoops resigned deep into the offseason last summer, Sooners fans didn’t know what to think. Little did they know, Lincoln Riley would lead Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a CFP appearance. There’s no doubt Oklahoma will miss Heisman winner and #1 overall draft pick, Baker Mayfield. Kyler Murray is an exciting QB and adds an extra element to the quarterback position. Murray is electrifying with his arm and his legs. He’s not going to match Baker’s passing numbers but he could be just as dominate. Rodney Anderson had a breakout sophomore season, rushing for a team-high 1,161 yards. His back-up, Trey Sermon added 744 yards and 5 TD. Oklahoma is going to be tough to defend with those three talented players in the backfield. Marquise Brown is one of the top wide receivers in the conference. Brown led the Sooners with 1,095 yards on 57 catches. CeeDee Lamb was phenomenal in his freshman season, finishing with 46 receptions and 807 yards. Kicker Austin Siebert is one of the elite in the nation.
Oklahoma’s defense was good enough in every game but the national semifinal. Giving up 54 points to Georgia and really blowing that game has to be a motivator heading into the season. Marquise Overton is one of the dominant defensive lineman in the Big 12. Overton is a handful for opposing offensive lines. Kenneth Murray leads a talented group of linebackers. Murray was the co-Defensive Freshman winner in the Big 12, after finishing 2nd on the team with 78 tackles. Tre Norwood was another fantastic freshman for the Sooners last season. Norwood plays opposite of Parnell Motley, one of more talented duos in the Big 12. Motley and Norwood combined for 17 PBU.
Oklahoma is once again the favorite to win the Big 12 Championship. Kyler Murray will lead an explosive offense. Rodney Anderson is a dark horse Heisman candidate. Defensively, Oklahoma should continue to be just “good” enough to get the job done. Lincoln Riley is one of the bright young coaches in college football. Oklahoma football is in a great place and a shot at a second straight CFP appearance isn’t out of the question. Oklahoma opens with a sneaky good game against Florida Atlantic. UCLA then comes to town before heading to Ames, IA to seek revenge against the Cyclones. Oklahoma will need to win vs. Texas and road games at TCU and West Virginia if they wish to repeat as Big 12 Champs. I see a couple of hiccups this season for the Sooners. Oklahoma will still win double digit games but will miss out of the B12 Championship game due to tiebreaker.
Oklahoma’s defense was good enough in every game but the national semifinal. Giving up 54 points to Georgia and really blowing that game has to be a motivator heading into the season. Marquise Overton is one of the dominant defensive lineman in the Big 12. Overton is a handful for opposing offensive lines. Kenneth Murray leads a talented group of linebackers. Murray was the co-Defensive Freshman winner in the Big 12, after finishing 2nd on the team with 78 tackles. Tre Norwood was another fantastic freshman for the Sooners last season. Norwood plays opposite of Parnell Motley, one of more talented duos in the Big 12. Motley and Norwood combined for 17 PBU.
Oklahoma is once again the favorite to win the Big 12 Championship. Kyler Murray will lead an explosive offense. Rodney Anderson is a dark horse Heisman candidate. Defensively, Oklahoma should continue to be just “good” enough to get the job done. Lincoln Riley is one of the bright young coaches in college football. Oklahoma football is in a great place and a shot at a second straight CFP appearance isn’t out of the question. Oklahoma opens with a sneaky good game against Florida Atlantic. UCLA then comes to town before heading to Ames, IA to seek revenge against the Cyclones. Oklahoma will need to win vs. Texas and road games at TCU and West Virginia if they wish to repeat as Big 12 Champs. I see a couple of hiccups this season for the Sooners. Oklahoma will still win double digit games but will miss out of the B12 Championship game due to tiebreaker.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Kyler Murray, JR, QB
Rushing
Rodney Anderson, JR, RB
Receiving
Marquise Brown, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Parnell Motley, JR, CB
Sacks
Kenneth Mann, SO, LB
Tackles
Kenneth Murray, SO, LB
Passing
Kyler Murray, JR, QB
Rushing
Rodney Anderson, JR, RB
Receiving
Marquise Brown, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Parnell Motley, JR, CB
Sacks
Kenneth Mann, SO, LB
Tackles
Kenneth Murray, SO, LB
#2T TCU 9-3 (7-2)
Coach: Gary Patterson
Offensive Coordinator: Sonny Cumbie and Curtis Luper
Defensive Coordinator: Chad Glasgow
Stadium: Amon G. Carter Stadium (45,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-3
2016 6-7
2015 11-2
2014 12-1
2013 4-8
Offensive Coordinator: Sonny Cumbie and Curtis Luper
Defensive Coordinator: Chad Glasgow
Stadium: Amon G. Carter Stadium (45,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-3
2016 6-7
2015 11-2
2014 12-1
2013 4-8
Overview
TCU returned to their winning ways in 2017. TCU finished the season 11-3 and played in the B12 title game. Fast forward to 2018 and TCU is once again poised to compete for a conference championship. Shawn Robinson will begin the season as the starting QB for the Horned Frogs. Robinson made just one start behind Kenny Hill in his freshman season. Robinson is quick with his feet but needs to improve in the passing game. Junior RB Darius Anderson led TCU with 768 rushing yards and 8 TD. KaVontae Turpin and Jalen Reagor were two of the best receivers for the Horned Frogs in ‘17. Reagor averaged 17.5 yards per catch and hauled in 8 TD.
Gary Patterson’s defense was among the best in the nation. TCU led the Big 12 in most major defensive categories. Allowing just 19 points per game, TCU dominated most of their conference opponents last season. The Horned Frogs need to replace 4 of their top 5 tackle leaders but there is hope that this group will be better than last season. Ben Banogu is a terrific pass rusher. Banogu recorded 8.5 sacks and that number will only increase in ‘18. Ross Blacklock is a massive DT, standing 6’4” and weighing in at 326 lbs. Blacklock dominated the line of scrimmage and finished as an All-American. Ty Summers leads a one of the best linebacker corps in the Big 12. Ridwan Issahaku leads all returning starters in tackles, 66. Julius Lewis returns from injury to start at the CB position. Lewis has the potential to be a household name by the end of the season.
TCU has a chance to make to make the Big 12 Championship game once again this season. TCU is talented on both sides of the ball and defensively, they are one of the best not only in the Big 12 but nationally. Week 3 is when we will find out just how good this TCU team is. The Horned Frogs faceoff with national championship contender Ohio State. The week after, TCU opens B12 play at Texas. Road trips to West Virginia and Baylor will be tough tests. TCU has to hold serve at home against Iowa State, Tech, Oklahoma, K-State, and Oklahoma State if they want to capture a B12 title. I’m going all-in on this TCU team. I expect them to drop a couple games in conference play, but a win over Oklahoma will send them to the Big 12 Championship game. This is the season the Horned Frogs take home the title.
Gary Patterson’s defense was among the best in the nation. TCU led the Big 12 in most major defensive categories. Allowing just 19 points per game, TCU dominated most of their conference opponents last season. The Horned Frogs need to replace 4 of their top 5 tackle leaders but there is hope that this group will be better than last season. Ben Banogu is a terrific pass rusher. Banogu recorded 8.5 sacks and that number will only increase in ‘18. Ross Blacklock is a massive DT, standing 6’4” and weighing in at 326 lbs. Blacklock dominated the line of scrimmage and finished as an All-American. Ty Summers leads a one of the best linebacker corps in the Big 12. Ridwan Issahaku leads all returning starters in tackles, 66. Julius Lewis returns from injury to start at the CB position. Lewis has the potential to be a household name by the end of the season.
TCU has a chance to make to make the Big 12 Championship game once again this season. TCU is talented on both sides of the ball and defensively, they are one of the best not only in the Big 12 but nationally. Week 3 is when we will find out just how good this TCU team is. The Horned Frogs faceoff with national championship contender Ohio State. The week after, TCU opens B12 play at Texas. Road trips to West Virginia and Baylor will be tough tests. TCU has to hold serve at home against Iowa State, Tech, Oklahoma, K-State, and Oklahoma State if they want to capture a B12 title. I’m going all-in on this TCU team. I expect them to drop a couple games in conference play, but a win over Oklahoma will send them to the Big 12 Championship game. This is the season the Horned Frogs take home the title.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Shawn Robinson, SO, QB
Rushing
Darius Anderson, JR, TB
Receiving
KaVontae Turpin, SR, HB
Defense
Interceptions
Jeff Gladney, JR, CB
Sacks
Ben Banogu, SR, DE
Tackles
Ridwan Issahaku, SR, SS
Passing
Shawn Robinson, SO, QB
Rushing
Darius Anderson, JR, TB
Receiving
KaVontae Turpin, SR, HB
Defense
Interceptions
Jeff Gladney, JR, CB
Sacks
Ben Banogu, SR, DE
Tackles
Ridwan Issahaku, SR, SS
#4 West Virginia 9-3 (6-3)
Coach: Dana Holgorsen
Offensive Coordinator: Jake Spavital
Defensive Coordinator: Tony Gibson
Stadium: Milan Puskar Stadium (60,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 10-3
2015 8-5
2014 7-6
2013 4-8
Offensive Coordinator: Jake Spavital
Defensive Coordinator: Tony Gibson
Stadium: Milan Puskar Stadium (60,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 10-3
2015 8-5
2014 7-6
2013 4-8
Overview
This West Virginia team could be one of, if not, the best team Dana Holgorsen has had in Morgantown. Holgorsen has been on and off the hot seat for years. Holgorsen is lucky enough to have one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. Will Grier is looking to become the top QB in the Big 12 with the departure of Baker Mayfield. Grier played well in his junior season, throwing for 3,490 yards and 34 TD. Grier has a chance to be a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. Kennedy McKoy looks to be the starting running back with the departure of Justin Crawford. McKoy averaged 4.8 yards per carry and finished with 7 TD. Grier will have an impressive stable of wide receivers in 2018. David Sills is regarded as one of the top wideouts in the country. Sills earned All-American honors after pulling in 18 TD. Gary Jennings led the Mountaineers in receptions with 97 and yards, 1,096. The biggest name to watch is TJ Simmons, the one time Alabama transfer. Four starters on the offensive line return, giving this passing game an extra boost.
West Virginia is looking for improvement on defense for 2018. Holgorsen has relied heavily on transfers over the years for defense and this year is no different. Ezekiel Rose led the Mountaineers in sacks last season with 4.5. David Long was an absolute stud at the linebacker position in ‘17. Long showed great awareness and speed, leading to a team high 12.5 tackles for loss. Keith Washington is one of the transfers that this defense will lean on. Washington comes over from Michigan and is poised to start the season at CB. Kenny Robinson is the lone returning starter in the secondary. He finished with 3 INT in ‘17, good enough for the team high.
West Virginia is one of the few teams that are able to win the Big 12 in ‘18. Will Grier leads an explosive offense and if the defense can improve, this is a team capable of winning a ton of games. Holgorsen could use another double digit win if he’d like to solidify himself at West Virginia. West Virginia opens the season with Tennessee in Charlotte and plays at NC State in the non-conference. Conference play opens with Kansas State at home. West Virginia gets to play both Oklahoma and TCU in Morgantown and in November. If West Virginia can win at Texas and Oklahoma State, they will have a legitimate shot at the B12 title and a CFP appearance.
West Virginia is looking for improvement on defense for 2018. Holgorsen has relied heavily on transfers over the years for defense and this year is no different. Ezekiel Rose led the Mountaineers in sacks last season with 4.5. David Long was an absolute stud at the linebacker position in ‘17. Long showed great awareness and speed, leading to a team high 12.5 tackles for loss. Keith Washington is one of the transfers that this defense will lean on. Washington comes over from Michigan and is poised to start the season at CB. Kenny Robinson is the lone returning starter in the secondary. He finished with 3 INT in ‘17, good enough for the team high.
West Virginia is one of the few teams that are able to win the Big 12 in ‘18. Will Grier leads an explosive offense and if the defense can improve, this is a team capable of winning a ton of games. Holgorsen could use another double digit win if he’d like to solidify himself at West Virginia. West Virginia opens the season with Tennessee in Charlotte and plays at NC State in the non-conference. Conference play opens with Kansas State at home. West Virginia gets to play both Oklahoma and TCU in Morgantown and in November. If West Virginia can win at Texas and Oklahoma State, they will have a legitimate shot at the B12 title and a CFP appearance.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Will Grier, SR, QB
Rushing
Kennedy McKoy, JR, RB
Receiving
Gary Jennings, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kenny Robinson, SO, FS
Sacks
Ezekiel Rose, SR, DE
Tackles
David Long, JR, LB
Passing
Will Grier, SR, QB
Rushing
Kennedy McKoy, JR, RB
Receiving
Gary Jennings, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kenny Robinson, SO, FS
Sacks
Ezekiel Rose, SR, DE
Tackles
David Long, JR, LB
#5 Oklahoma State 7-5 (5-4)
Coach: Mike Gundy
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Yurcich
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Knowles
Stadium: Boone Pickens Stadium (60,218)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 10-3
2015 10-3
2014 7-6
2013 10-3
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Yurcich
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Knowles
Stadium: Boone Pickens Stadium (60,218)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 10-3
2015 10-3
2014 7-6
2013 10-3
Overview
Mike Gundy and the Oklahoma State Cowboys will be looking to reach double digit wins for the 4th consecutive season. If the Cowboys plan on reaching that goal, they’ll need to do it without Mason Rudolph and James Washington. Taylor Cornelius, Dru Brown and Spencer Sanders all have a shot at being the new starting QB in Stillwater. Justice Hill returns at RB, coming off of a 1,467 yard season. Hill is one of the best running backs in the nation and a potential darkhorse for the Heisman Trophy. Oklahoma State’s top two receivers are gone, but Jalen McCleskey and Dillon Stoner combined for 94 receptions in ‘17. Oklahoma State returns just a couple of starting offensive linemen. Guard Marcus Keyes is one of the best at his position in the Big 12. Matt Ammendola was a steady and reliable leg for the Cowboys in 2017, hitting 23 of 29 FG’s.
Defensively, there will be fewer questions on that side of the ball. The Cowboys return 7 starters from a group that finished 5th in the conference in total defense. DE Jordan Brailford was the most productive lineman last season. Brailford finished with 57 tackles, 5 sacks and 5.5 for loss. Darrion Daniels is another big defensive lineman and a run-stopper. At 300 lbs, he’s a force to be reckoned with. Justin Phillips is the top tackler coming back. Phillips ended ‘17 with 64 tackles and 7 for loss (team high). In the secondary, AJ Green was a ballhawk, finishing with 4 INT’s. Opposite Green is Rodarius Williams. Williams led the Cowboys secondary with 10 PBU.
A Big 12 championship has eluded the Cowboys despite being one of the best and most consistent teams in the conference. This season may be no different. For once, there are question marks at the quarterback position. If the Cowboys are going to win, they’ll need to break the 3 game losing streak to Oklahoma. Oklahoma State opens with 4 consecutive home games, including Boise State in the non-conference. The final 5 conference games will be the toughest stretch of the season. The stretch Texas, at Baylor, at Oklahoma, West Virginia, and at TCU will be the deciding factor. I wouldn’t expect a Big 12 Championship this season but they’ll return to bowl season.
Defensively, there will be fewer questions on that side of the ball. The Cowboys return 7 starters from a group that finished 5th in the conference in total defense. DE Jordan Brailford was the most productive lineman last season. Brailford finished with 57 tackles, 5 sacks and 5.5 for loss. Darrion Daniels is another big defensive lineman and a run-stopper. At 300 lbs, he’s a force to be reckoned with. Justin Phillips is the top tackler coming back. Phillips ended ‘17 with 64 tackles and 7 for loss (team high). In the secondary, AJ Green was a ballhawk, finishing with 4 INT’s. Opposite Green is Rodarius Williams. Williams led the Cowboys secondary with 10 PBU.
A Big 12 championship has eluded the Cowboys despite being one of the best and most consistent teams in the conference. This season may be no different. For once, there are question marks at the quarterback position. If the Cowboys are going to win, they’ll need to break the 3 game losing streak to Oklahoma. Oklahoma State opens with 4 consecutive home games, including Boise State in the non-conference. The final 5 conference games will be the toughest stretch of the season. The stretch Texas, at Baylor, at Oklahoma, West Virginia, and at TCU will be the deciding factor. I wouldn’t expect a Big 12 Championship this season but they’ll return to bowl season.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Taylor Cornelius, SR, QB
Rushing
Justice Hill, JR, RB
Receiving
Jalen McCleskey, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
A.J. Green, JR, CB
Sacks
Jordan Brailford, JR, DE
Tackles
Justin Phillips, SR, LB
Passing
Taylor Cornelius, SR, QB
Rushing
Justice Hill, JR, RB
Receiving
Jalen McCleskey, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
A.J. Green, JR, CB
Sacks
Jordan Brailford, JR, DE
Tackles
Justin Phillips, SR, LB
#6T Kansas State 6-6 (4-5)
Coach: Bill Snyder
Offensive Coordinator: Andre Coleman
Defensive Coordinator: Blake Seiler
Stadium: Bill Snyder Family Stadium (50,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 9-4
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Andre Coleman
Defensive Coordinator: Blake Seiler
Stadium: Bill Snyder Family Stadium (50,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 9-4
2015 6-7
2014 9-4
2013 8-5
Overview
Bill Snyder enters his 27th year as head coach of the Kansas State Wildcats. Snyder has always been able to get the most out of his roster. He will need some of that magic again this year. Junior Alex Delton and Sophomore Skylar Thompson are locked into a QB battle heading into the fall. Delton rushed for 500 yards and 8 TD’s last season. Thompson had the better numbers in the passing game with 61% completion. Alex Barnes returns for his junior season. Barnes led the Wildcats in rushing with 819 yards. WR Isaiah Zuber finished 2017 with 51 receptions (team high) and WR Dalton Schoen averaged over 20 yards per catch. The entire offensive line returns, including Dalton Risner, an All-B12 performer and one of the top tackles in the country.
Kansas State benefited from having one of the best TO margins in the country. The Cats defense were turnover machines. Kansas State’s three returners in the secondary combined for 7 INT’s. The unit needs to improve upon the 309 passing yards per game which was 129th nationally. Reggie Walker will be one of the biggest reasons to watch this Kansas State team. Walker is coming off of an All-B12 season and is one of the best pass rushers in the conference. Kansas State loses all 3 starting linebackers from a year ago. Elijah Sullivan has the most game experience, he finished with 28 tackles in ‘17. Both special teams positions start the season with new faces.
If I have learned anything in my years of writing college football previews, it’s easily to never underestimate a Bill Snyder team. On paper, the Wildcats could be one of worst teams in the conference. However, I’m a firm believer in Coach Snyder. Offensively, the QB’s should be fine and the offensive line is one of the best in the conference. Kansas State needs to improve significantly on defense if this team is going to compete for a B12 title. Kansas State gets Mississippi State at home in the non-conference. The B12 schedule is tough with road trips at Oklahoma, TCU, and West Virginia. If K-State holds serve at home, they’ll hit 4 B12 wins. K-State needs to win a couple on the road to be a major player this season.
Kansas State benefited from having one of the best TO margins in the country. The Cats defense were turnover machines. Kansas State’s three returners in the secondary combined for 7 INT’s. The unit needs to improve upon the 309 passing yards per game which was 129th nationally. Reggie Walker will be one of the biggest reasons to watch this Kansas State team. Walker is coming off of an All-B12 season and is one of the best pass rushers in the conference. Kansas State loses all 3 starting linebackers from a year ago. Elijah Sullivan has the most game experience, he finished with 28 tackles in ‘17. Both special teams positions start the season with new faces.
If I have learned anything in my years of writing college football previews, it’s easily to never underestimate a Bill Snyder team. On paper, the Wildcats could be one of worst teams in the conference. However, I’m a firm believer in Coach Snyder. Offensively, the QB’s should be fine and the offensive line is one of the best in the conference. Kansas State needs to improve significantly on defense if this team is going to compete for a B12 title. Kansas State gets Mississippi State at home in the non-conference. The B12 schedule is tough with road trips at Oklahoma, TCU, and West Virginia. If K-State holds serve at home, they’ll hit 4 B12 wins. K-State needs to win a couple on the road to be a major player this season.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Skylar Thompson, SO, QB
Rushing
Alex Barnes, JR, RB
Receiving
Isaiah Zuber, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kendall Adams, SR, S
Sacks
Kyle Ball, JR, DE
Tackles
Denzel Goolsby, JR, S
Passing
Skylar Thompson, SO, QB
Rushing
Alex Barnes, JR, RB
Receiving
Isaiah Zuber, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Kendall Adams, SR, S
Sacks
Kyle Ball, JR, DE
Tackles
Denzel Goolsby, JR, S
#6T Iowa State 7-5 (4-5)
Coach: Matt Campbell
Offensive Coordinator:
Defensive Coordinator: Jon Heacock
Stadium: Jack Trice Stadium (61,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 3-9
2015 3-9
2014 2-10
2013 3-9
Offensive Coordinator:
Defensive Coordinator: Jon Heacock
Stadium: Jack Trice Stadium (61,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 8-5
2016 3-9
2015 3-9
2014 2-10
2013 3-9
Overview
Matt Campbell has turned Ames into a football town once again. The Cyclones were one of the biggest surprises in college football last season. There is plenty of good news with the return of several key pieces. Kyle Kempt emerged as one of the great quarterbacks in the conference. Kempt completed 66% of his passes for 1,787 yards and 15 TD to only 3 INT. David Montgomery is on of the top running backs in the nation. Montgomery returns for his junior season after rushing for 1,146 yards and earned All-B12 honors. Top wideout Allen Lazard is gone, but Hakeem Butler is a big time target in the passing game. Butler stands at 6’6” and hauled in 41 catches with a 17 yard per catch average. In other words, he’s a big time playmaker for Iowa State.
Iowa State used great defense to really turn around the program in ‘17. Marcel Spears is one of the top defenders returning. Spears earned All-B12 honors after recording 107 tackles, 7.5 for loss. On the defensive line, Iowa State has JaQuan Bailey. Bailey could emerge as one of the top pass rushers in the conference. He led the Cyclones with 7 sacks in ‘17. Brian Peavy was active at the cornerback position. Peavy finished with 88 tackles and 9 PBU. Greg Elsworth will be a name to watch. The JUCO safety could play a big role this season.
Iowa State enters the season with hopes of competing for a conference title. The annual CyHawk meeting will give us an early glimpse of what this team is made of. Iowa State then hosts Oklahoma in their B12 opener. If Iowa State can get a win in that one, look out. Road games at TCU, Oklahoma State, and Texas will test the strength of this team. The schedule is one of the better for teams in the B12. I’m not sure Iowa State will contend for a spot at the top of the B12, but they’ll be competitive in every game. A return to bowl season would be a big win for the program and a notch on Campbell’s resume.
Iowa State used great defense to really turn around the program in ‘17. Marcel Spears is one of the top defenders returning. Spears earned All-B12 honors after recording 107 tackles, 7.5 for loss. On the defensive line, Iowa State has JaQuan Bailey. Bailey could emerge as one of the top pass rushers in the conference. He led the Cyclones with 7 sacks in ‘17. Brian Peavy was active at the cornerback position. Peavy finished with 88 tackles and 9 PBU. Greg Elsworth will be a name to watch. The JUCO safety could play a big role this season.
Iowa State enters the season with hopes of competing for a conference title. The annual CyHawk meeting will give us an early glimpse of what this team is made of. Iowa State then hosts Oklahoma in their B12 opener. If Iowa State can get a win in that one, look out. Road games at TCU, Oklahoma State, and Texas will test the strength of this team. The schedule is one of the better for teams in the B12. I’m not sure Iowa State will contend for a spot at the top of the B12, but they’ll be competitive in every game. A return to bowl season would be a big win for the program and a notch on Campbell’s resume.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Kyle Kempt, SR, QB
Rushing
David Montgomery, JR, RB
Receiving
Hakeem Butler, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Brain Peavy, SR, CB and Marcel Spears Jr., JR, OLB
Sacks
JaQuan Bailey, JR, LEO
Tackles
Marcel Spears, JR, OLB
Passing
Kyle Kempt, SR, QB
Rushing
David Montgomery, JR, RB
Receiving
Hakeem Butler, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Brain Peavy, SR, CB and Marcel Spears Jr., JR, OLB
Sacks
JaQuan Bailey, JR, LEO
Tackles
Marcel Spears, JR, OLB
#8 Baylor 6-6 (3-6)
Coach: Matt Rhule
Offensive Coordinator: Jeff Nixon and Glenn Thomas
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Snow
Stadium: McLane Stadium (45,140)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 1-11
2016 7-6
2015 10-3
2014 11-2
2013 11-2
Offensive Coordinator: Jeff Nixon and Glenn Thomas
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Snow
Stadium: McLane Stadium (45,140)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 1-11
2016 7-6
2015 10-3
2014 11-2
2013 11-2
Overview
Year number uno under Matt Rhule is one that Baylor fans would like to forget. Baylor is still suffering from the fallout of the Art Briles scandal. However, Fixer Upper isn’t the only must see TV from Waco, TX this fall. Baylor returns a vast majority of their starters on both sides of the ball. Charlie Brewer shined bright in his debut as a Baylor Bear. Brewer completed 68% of his passes for 1,562 yards and 11 TD. Junior wideout Denzel Mims is coming off an All-Big 12 season. Mims dazzled with 61 receptions for 1,087 yards and 8 TD. Baylor’s wide receiver corps could be one of the best in the conference with Chris Platt and Tennessee transfer Jalen Hurd starting with Mims. Baylor returns 4 offensive lineman from the 24th passing offense from last season. Kicker Connor Martin converted on 20 of 24 attempts last season. This offense is going to return to being one of the best in the nation.
Baylor needs to improve on the defensive side of the ball if the Bears are going to return to respectability in the Big 12. Ira Lewis was dominate at the nose tackle position in ‘17. Lewis led the Bears with 5.5 sacks and can really set the tone in the running game. Clay Johnston is the top linebacker on the Bears defense. Johnston is the leading returning tackler for Baylor, he also led the team in tackles for loss (8) last season. Jalen Pitre (LB) and Harrison Hand (CB) are two sophomores that could have breakout season. Grayland Arnold and Hand combined for 15 PBU in ‘17, together they could led the turnaround of this defense.
Baylor returned to the bottom of the B12 last season. There is hope that this season will be much better. Matt Rhule is a fantastic coach and he will eventually lead this program back to the top. There is a bunch of winnable games on the schedule this season. Baylor should go 3-0 in the non-conference. Baylor hosts Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and TCU in conference play. The road schedule is tough but the neutral site game vs Texas Tech could decide whether or not the Bears make a postseason appearance. My expectations are high for this Baylor offense, leading to an improvement in the win column and a bowl game.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Charlie Brewer, SO, QB
Rushing
John Lovett, SO, RB
Receiving
Denzel Mims, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Three Players Tied at 1
Sacks
Ira Lewis, SR, NT
Tackles
Clay Johnson, JR, LB
Passing
Charlie Brewer, SO, QB
Rushing
John Lovett, SO, RB
Receiving
Denzel Mims, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Three Players Tied at 1
Sacks
Ira Lewis, SR, NT
Tackles
Clay Johnson, JR, LB
#9 Texas Tech 3-9 (1-8)
Coach: Kliff Kingsbury
Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Jones
Defensive Coordinator: David Gibbs/ Zac Spavital
Stadium: Jones AT&T Stadium (60,454)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 6-7
2016 5-7
2015 7-6
2014 4-8
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Jones
Defensive Coordinator: David Gibbs/ Zac Spavital
Stadium: Jones AT&T Stadium (60,454)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 6-7
2016 5-7
2015 7-6
2014 4-8
2013 8-5
Overview
Kliff Kingsbury enters his 6th season as head coach of the Red Raiders. If Texas Tech doesn’t show some improvement this season, Kingsbury could be out of Lubbock. To make things worse, the Red Raiders must replace their starting QB, RB, and their top 3 receivers in receptions. McLane Carter will start the season under center. In limited action, he completed 50% of his passes and finished with 2 scores and 2 INT. Tre King and Da’Leon Ward will split carries in the backfield. The Red Raiders have some big time targets are the WR position. TJ Vasher averaged 18.8 yards per catch on 29 catches. Antoine Wesley stands 6’5” and could have a breakout season. All five offensive lineman return.
Texas Tech made some positive strides on the defensive side of the ball in 2017. One of the biggest reason was the return of Dakota Allen. Allen led the Red Raiders with 102 tackles and 4 for loss. Jordyn Brooks and Justus Parker round out an impressive group of LB’s. One player to keep an eye on would sophomore DE Eli Howard. Howard led the Red Raiders in sacks with 5.5 as a freshman. Howard is a candidate for a huge season. Texas Tech struggled defending the pass, finishing near the bottom nationally. With 4 starters back, the fans are expecting to see better results. Safety Jah’Shawn Johnson was an All-Big-12 performer last season and sophomore DaMarcus Fields showed potential at CB.
Texas Tech needed a win over Texas to reach the postseason in ‘17. There are question marks all over the offensive side of the ball, unfamiliar territory for the fans in Lubbock. Defensively, it's a whole new ballgame. This could be on the better defenses that Tech has had in the last decade. If the offense can find some momentum, this could be a fun season for the Red Raiders. Tech opens with Ole Miss in Houston and host the Houston Cougars for 2 big games in the non-conference. Texas Tech does get some favors in B12 play by hosting WVU, Oklahoma and Texas. It’s going to take some luck for this team to return to bowl season. It’s looking like it could be an extremely mediocre season, potentially leading to the firing of head coach Kliff Kingsbury.
Texas Tech made some positive strides on the defensive side of the ball in 2017. One of the biggest reason was the return of Dakota Allen. Allen led the Red Raiders with 102 tackles and 4 for loss. Jordyn Brooks and Justus Parker round out an impressive group of LB’s. One player to keep an eye on would sophomore DE Eli Howard. Howard led the Red Raiders in sacks with 5.5 as a freshman. Howard is a candidate for a huge season. Texas Tech struggled defending the pass, finishing near the bottom nationally. With 4 starters back, the fans are expecting to see better results. Safety Jah’Shawn Johnson was an All-Big-12 performer last season and sophomore DaMarcus Fields showed potential at CB.
Texas Tech needed a win over Texas to reach the postseason in ‘17. There are question marks all over the offensive side of the ball, unfamiliar territory for the fans in Lubbock. Defensively, it's a whole new ballgame. This could be on the better defenses that Tech has had in the last decade. If the offense can find some momentum, this could be a fun season for the Red Raiders. Tech opens with Ole Miss in Houston and host the Houston Cougars for 2 big games in the non-conference. Texas Tech does get some favors in B12 play by hosting WVU, Oklahoma and Texas. It’s going to take some luck for this team to return to bowl season. It’s looking like it could be an extremely mediocre season, potentially leading to the firing of head coach Kliff Kingsbury.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
McLane Carter, JR, QB
Rushing
Tre King, SR, RB
Receiving
T.J. Vasher, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Justus Parker, JR, CB
Sacks
Eli Howard, SO, DE
Tackles
Dakota Allen, SR, LB
Passing
McLane Carter, JR, QB
Rushing
Tre King, SR, RB
Receiving
T.J. Vasher, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Justus Parker, JR, CB
Sacks
Eli Howard, SO, DE
Tackles
Dakota Allen, SR, LB
#10 Kansas 1-11 (0-9)
Coach: David Beaty
Offensive Coordinator: Doug Meacham
Defensive Coordinator: Clint Bowen
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (50,071)
Offensive Coordinator: Doug Meacham
Defensive Coordinator: Clint Bowen
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (50,071)
Overview
David Beaty returns for his 4th season as Kansas head coach. This could be his most talented squad in Lawrence with an influx of JUCO talent. Peyton Bender and Carter Stanley are locked into a QB battle. Both players were mediocre at best in ‘17. Khalil Herbert and Taylor Martin will be the top two backs. The two backs combined for nearly 1,000 yards. Steven Sims returns as the most consistent player on the offensive side of the ball. Sims led the Jayhawks with 59 receptions and 839 yards. The offensive line returns four starters. Gabriel Rui may have been the Jayhawks best weapon in 2017, converting on 17-20 FG.
Kansas was once again one of the worst defenses in the nation. Daniel Wise is one of the few solid players on the roster. Wise received All-Big 12 honors after his 7 sack performance at DT position. Senior LB Joe Dineen is one of the top linebackers in the country. In his junior season, Dineen recorded 137 tackles and a staggering 22.5 for loss, earning him 2nd team All-American. All four starters return in the secondary, including 2nd leading tackler Mike Lee. Kyle Thompson returns at punter.
There’s no easy way to say it, Kansas is one of the worst programs in all of college football. Kansas should be improved overall, but the talent gap in the Big 12 will leave them in the dust. Players like Steven Sims and Joe Dineen give Kansas a chance in a few games. Kansas opens with Nicholls State and that may be their only win of the season. I once again have the Jayhawks finishing winless in Big 12 play. This could be Beaty’s last season at the helm.
Kansas was once again one of the worst defenses in the nation. Daniel Wise is one of the few solid players on the roster. Wise received All-Big 12 honors after his 7 sack performance at DT position. Senior LB Joe Dineen is one of the top linebackers in the country. In his junior season, Dineen recorded 137 tackles and a staggering 22.5 for loss, earning him 2nd team All-American. All four starters return in the secondary, including 2nd leading tackler Mike Lee. Kyle Thompson returns at punter.
There’s no easy way to say it, Kansas is one of the worst programs in all of college football. Kansas should be improved overall, but the talent gap in the Big 12 will leave them in the dust. Players like Steven Sims and Joe Dineen give Kansas a chance in a few games. Kansas opens with Nicholls State and that may be their only win of the season. I once again have the Jayhawks finishing winless in Big 12 play. This could be Beaty’s last season at the helm.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Peyton Bender, SR, QB
Rushing
Khalil Herbert, JR, RB
Receiving
Steven Sims, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Mike Lee, JR, S and Hasan Defense, JR, CB
Sacks
Daiel Wise, SR, DT
Tackles
Joe Dineen, SR, LB
Passing
Peyton Bender, SR, QB
Rushing
Khalil Herbert, JR, RB
Receiving
Steven Sims, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Mike Lee, JR, S and Hasan Defense, JR, CB
Sacks
Daiel Wise, SR, DT
Tackles
Joe Dineen, SR, LB