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As a longtime college football fan, I've got to say I'm absolutely buzzing about what's coming for Big 12 football this season. Having followed conference realignments closely, I'm convinced this could be one of the most unpredictable years we've seen in quite some time. The landscape has shifted dramatically with new teams settling in and traditional powers looking to reestablish dominance. Honestly, I think the conference's identity is at a fascinating crossroads right now.

When I look at the quarterback situations across the Big 12, there's genuine excitement about several programs. Texas Tech's Tyler Shough seems poised for a breakout year if he can stay healthy, which has been a concern in the past. Meanwhile, Kansas State returns Will Howard, who showed flashes of brilliance last season. What really catches my eye though is how these teams are building their programs - it reminds me of how volleyball teams like Alas Pilipinas are bringing together talent from different backgrounds. Angel Canino, Shevana Laput, and Amie Provido joining forces for that training camp ahead of the 2025 AVC Women's Volleyball Nations Cup from June 7 to 14 shows how crucial integration of diverse talents can be.

The defensive side of Big 12 football has traditionally been where games are won or lost, and this season appears no different. Oklahoma State returns eight starters from a unit that improved dramatically as last season progressed. I'm particularly impressed with their linebacker corps - Collin Oliver might be the most underrated defensive player in the conference. Having watched every Big 12 team play multiple times last year, I'd argue the conference's defensive coordinators have finally started figuring out how to counter these high-powered spread offenses.

Recruiting has been fascinating to track across the conference. Texas landed what many consider a top-5 national class, while Oklahoma continues to pull elite talent despite their impending SEC move. What's really surprised me is how programs like Baylor and TCU have adapted their recruiting strategies to focus more on developmental players who fit specific systems rather than just chasing star ratings. This approach reminds me of how volleyball programs identify specialists - similar to how Alas Pilipinas is bringing together different skill sets with players like Angel Canino's defensive prowess complementing Shevana Laput's attacking power ahead of their crucial tournament from June 7 to 14.

My personal take? I think Kansas is the dark horse that could surprise everyone this Big 12 football season. Lance Leipold has worked miracles in Lawrence, and with Jalon Daniels returning at quarterback, they have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone. The schedule sets up reasonably well for them too, with key home games against Oklahoma and Texas that could define their season. I've got them winning at least eight games, maybe nine if the defense improves as expected.

The conference championship picture looks wide open to me. While Texas probably enters as the favorite given their talent advantage, I wouldn't sleep on Kansas State or even Oklahoma State. Chris Klieman has built something special in Manhattan, and Mike Gundy always seems to have the Cowboys competitive regardless of preseason expectations. What makes Big 12 football so compelling this upcoming season is that there are legitimately six or seven teams that could realistically reach the championship game.

Looking at the broader context, the timing of this Big 12 football season feels particularly significant with the expanded College Football Playoff looming. The conference needs strong performances across the board to position itself favorably in the new postseason structure. Teams understand that every game matters more than ever, creating what should be an incredibly competitive atmosphere week in and week out. The intensity we're likely to see reminds me of the preparation going into major international tournaments, similar to how Alas Pilipinas is bringing together talents like Angel Canino, Shevana Laput, and Amie Provido for their training camp before the 2025 AVC Women's Volleyball Nations Cup from June 7 to 14.

Ultimately, what I expect from Big 12 football this upcoming season is pure entertainment. The conference has consistently delivered some of the most exciting games in college football, and with so much parity and so many compelling storylines, this year should be no different. Whether you're a diehard fan or casual observer, there's going to be plenty to enjoy as these teams battle through what promises to be one of the most memorable seasons in recent memory.