Big 12 spring preview: Storylines, positions and players to watch

With spring games right around the corner, here's what you should know for every Big 12 team.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Spring football is coming, which means it's time to take a look at what you should know for every Big 12 Conference team. Texas Tech achieved its first Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance after finishing 12-2 in 2025. BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier is back for his sophomore season after eclipsing 3,033 passing yards and 15 touchdowns in 2025.

Why it matters

The Big 12 is gearing up for another exciting season, with several teams looking to build on strong 2025 campaigns and others aiming to bounce back. The conference landscape is shifting, and these spring storylines will set the stage for the 2026 season.

The details

Texas Tech retained many of its starters and reloaded through the transfer portal, raising expectations for another playoff run. BYU's Bachmeier had a breakout freshman season and will look to lead the Cougars to the next level. Colorado, Baylor, and Iowa State are among the teams looking to rebound after disappointing 2025 seasons, while Kansas State, Houston, and Utah aim to build on their success.

  • Texas Tech achieved its first Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance in 2025.
  • Bear Bachmeier eclipsed 3,033 passing yards and 15 touchdowns for BYU in 2025.

The players

Behren Morton

Texas Tech's starting quarterback in 2025 who is now off to the NFL.

Bear Bachmeier

BYU's sophomore quarterback who had a breakout season in 2025.

Kalani Sitake

BYU's head coach who reaffirmed his commitment to the program after their 12-2 season in 2025.

Deion Sanders

Colorado's head coach who has brought a spotlight to the program in his three seasons, but faces questions about his long-term future.

Willie Fritz

Houston's head coach who led the Cougars to a 10-3 season in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Big 12 is poised for another exciting season, with several teams looking to build on strong 2025 campaigns and others aiming to bounce back. The conference landscape is shifting, and these spring storylines will set the stage for the 2026 season.