Big 12 off to another running start with newcomers

Conference realignment produced fluctuation within the Big 12

When the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma announced their departure from the Big 12 Conference in 2021, many wondered what the future held for the league. However, the Big 12 has shown that it is not going anywhere anytime soon, and it is poised for another strong season in 2023.

The Big 12 added four new members in 2023: BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF. These schools bring a wealth of talent and experience to the conference, and they should help the Big 12 compete for a national championship.

BYU

BYU is a private university located in Provo, Utah. The Cougars have a long and storied football history, and they have won 19 conference championships. BYU is led by head coach Kalani Sitake, who is entering his eighth season with the program. The Cougars are expected to be a contender in the Big 12 this season, and they could make a run at the College Football Playoff.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a public university located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Bearcats have been a rising star in college football in recent years, and they finished the 2021 season with a perfect 13-0 record. Cincinnati is led by head coach Luke Fickell, who is entering his sixth season with the program. The Bearcats are expected to be one of the favorites in the Big 12 this season, and they could make a run at the College Football Playoff.

Houston

Houston is a public university located in Houston, Texas. The Cougars have a rich football history, and they have won 17 conference championships. Houston is led by head coach Dana Holgorsen, who is entering his fifth season with the program. The Cougars are expected to be a contender in the Big 12 this season, and they could make a run at the College Football Playoff.

UCF

UCF is a public university located in Orlando, Florida. The Knights have been a rising star in college football in recent years, and they finished the 2021 season with a 9-4 record. UCF is led by head coach Gus Malzahn, who is entering his third season with the program. The Knights are expected to be a contender in the Big 12 this season, and they could make a run at the College Football Playoff.

Conclusion

The Big 12 is poised for another strong season in 2023. The conference has added four new members, and these schools bring a wealth of talent and experience to the league. The Big 12 is expected to be one of the most competitive conferences in the country, and it could produce a national champion.