Five Big 12 Quarterbacks With Conference Championship Potential

New signal-callers look to lead their teams to the Big 12 title and College Football Playoff

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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With the 2026 season on the horizon, there are several new quarterbacks in the Big 12 with hopes of a conference title and a College Football Playoff berth. Quarterbacks like Drew Mestemaker, Brendan Sorsby, Bear Bachmeier, Noah Fifita, and DJ Lagway are expected to be among the conference's best and lead their teams to success.

Why it matters

The Big 12 is known for its high-powered offenses and elite quarterback play. These five signal-callers have the potential to be among the best in the conference and could lead their teams to a conference championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff.

The details

Drew Mestemaker transfers from North Texas to Oklahoma State after leading the nation in passing yards in 2025. Brendan Sorsby moves from Cincinnati to Texas Tech and brings his dual-threat abilities. Bear Bachmeier returns to BYU after a strong sophomore season. Noah Fifita enters his fifth season at Arizona as an experienced starter. DJ Lagway transfers from Florida to Baylor, looking to bounce back from an up-and-down start to his college career.

  • The 2026 college football season is on the horizon.

The players

Drew Mestemaker

A transfer quarterback from North Texas who led the nation in passing yards in 2025. He follows his former coaches to Oklahoma State.

Brendan Sorsby

A transfer quarterback from Cincinnati who brings his dual-threat abilities to Texas Tech, providing an upgrade at the position.

Bear Bachmeier

The returning starting quarterback at BYU, he is poised to lead the Cougars to another strong season in the Big 12 after a successful 2025 campaign.

Noah Fifita

The experienced fifth-year starter at quarterback for Arizona, he will look to guide the Wildcats to a Big 12 title in 2026.

DJ Lagway

The transfer quarterback from Florida looks to reset his career at Baylor, where he will work with offensive coordinator Jake Spavital.

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The takeaway

The Big 12 is poised to have an exciting 2026 season with several new quarterbacks looking to lead their teams to conference championships and College Football Playoff berths. These five signal-callers have the potential to be among the best in the nation and could shape the landscape of the conference.