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As I sit here analyzing the upcoming Big 12 football season, I can't help but draw parallels to what's happening in the volleyball world with Angel Canino, Shevana Laput, and Amie Provido joining Alas Pilipinas training for the 2024 AVC Women's Volleyball Nations Cup. Just like these elite athletes are preparing for their championship run from June 7 to 14, several Big 12 football teams are positioning themselves for what could be a historic season. Having followed college football for over fifteen years, I've developed a keen sense for spotting championship-caliber teams, and this season's Big 12 landscape looks particularly intriguing.

Let me start with what I believe is the strongest contender - the Texas Longhorns. Their offensive line averages 6'5" and 315 pounds across the board, creating what might be the most formidable front in college football. I've watched their spring practices, and quarterback Quinn Ewers has developed significantly, showing improved decision-making that could translate to 3,500+ passing yards this season. Their defensive coordinator's new scheme emphasizes pressure, which I think will generate at least 40 sacks throughout the season. What really stands out to me is their depth at running back - having three capable backs will be crucial during those tough conference games in November.

Oklahoma comes to mind next, though I'll admit I have some reservations about their defense. Their offense should be explosive, returning 9 starters from a unit that averaged 42 points per game last season. I particularly like their receiving corps, which features what I consider to be two future NFL draft picks. However, their secondary concerns me - they allowed nearly 285 passing yards per game last season, and that needs significant improvement. Still, their schedule sets up nicely, with only 3 true road games against ranked opponents. Kansas State has been my dark horse pick for months now. Their ground game is absolutely punishing, led by a running back who rushed for 1,400 yards last season despite missing two games. What impresses me most about the Wildcats is their consistency - they've won at least 8 games in 4 of the last 5 seasons. Their coaching staff has built a culture that emphasizes physical football, something I value tremendously in championship teams.

TCU presents an interesting case study in roster development. After their surprising national championship appearance two seasons ago, they've rebuilt through the transfer portal, adding 12 impact players including what I believe could be the conference's best cornerback. Their offensive creativity under head coach Sonny Dykes always makes them dangerous, though I worry about their ability to win close games after going 2-4 in one-score games last season. Utah rounds out my top five, bringing their trademark physical style from the Pac-12 to their new conference home. I've always admired Kyle Whittingham's coaching philosophy, and his quarterback Cam Rising returns after missing last season with injury. Their defense should rank among the nation's best, returning 8 starters from a unit that allowed just 19 points per game.

Looking at the broader picture, I'm convinced this could be one of the most competitive Big 12 seasons in recent memory. The conference's expansion has created new rivalries and challenges that will test each team's depth and coaching adaptability. Much like how Angel Canino, Shevana Laput, and Amie Provido are preparing for their volleyball championship through dedicated training, these football programs have been building toward this moment through strategic recruiting and development. From my perspective, Texas has the slight edge due to their balance across all phases, but any of these five teams could realistically hoist the championship trophy come December. The margin for error will be incredibly thin, and as I often tell fellow analysts, championships are won not just with talent, but with the kind of preparation and team chemistry we're seeing develop across these programs.