Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast

Saturday, November 15, 2025, delivered a chaotic and captivating slate of Big 12 football that simultaneously clarified the title race while serving up a major upset.The day was headlined by three dominant statement victories that solidified the conference's College Football Playoff aspirations. The No. 6 Texas Tech Red Raiders put on a masterclass, routing UCF 48-9 to secure their tenth win and cement their lead in the conference standings. Similarly, the No. 13 Utah Utes rebounded from recent struggles with a massive 55-28 road victory over Baylor, demonstrating elite rushing power with three separate long touchdown runs. The BYU Cougars also poured on the offense in a 44-13 dismantling of TCU, proving their resilience following last week's loss.However, the "wild" factor came in the form of a significant upset in Cincinnati. The Arizona Wildcats pulled off an impressive road win, defeating the No. 25 Cincinnati Bearcats 30-24. This result immediately knocked the Bearcats out of serious contention for the Big 12 Championship Game and propelled the Wildcats up the standings, showcasing the new Big 12's unpredictable depth. Arizona's victory was perhaps the most crucial for the overall conference narrative, preventing the top four teams from running away with the national spotlight and ensuring every final week matchup holds significant weight.The other key result saw Kansas State edge out a tough, low-scoring 14-6 win over Oklahoma State, keeping the Wildcats bowl-eligible. Between the decisive blowouts at the top and the crucial upsets and tight contests lower down, the weekend underscored the competitive balance and high-stakes drama that defines the new Big 12.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest week of college football was an unqualified success for the Big 12, as its top-tier contenders—Texas Tech, Utah, and BYU—delivered massive, confidence-boosting victories on Saturday, November 15, 2025, that drastically improved the conference's position in the national landscape.The marquee performance came from the No. 6 Texas Tech Red Raiders, who completely dismantled UCF in a 48-9 rout. This win was critical: it proved the Red Raiders could handle success and the pressure of a potential CFP run immediately following their huge victory over BYU last week. They suffocated the UCF offense and moved to a 10-1 record, keeping them firmly in the driver's seat for the Big 12 title game.Equally impressive was the Utah Utes' 55-28 destruction of Baylor on the road. The Utes bounced back from a prior loss with a dominant showing of offensive firepower and a strong defensive effort, which is essential for impressing the College Football Playoff committee. Their high-margin win ensures their overall resume remains strong for a potential at-large bid in the expanded 12-team playoff, despite having two conference losses.Finally, the BYU Cougars showed their resilience by putting on a clinic in a 44-13 dismantling of TCU. The Cougars were under pressure following their loss to Texas Tech, but their overwhelming response demonstrated the mental fortitude and depth necessary to remain a top-15 team.These huge wins send a unified message: the Big 12 is a deep, elite conference with multiple programs capable of playing at a championship level. For the conference's Commissioner, the dominant margins earned by Texas Tech, Utah, and BYU are priceless, significantly strengthening the argument for the Big 12 to secure multiple bids to the College Football Playoff this season.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big 12 Momentum: BYU and Utah's Key WinsThe 2025 college football season has seen both BYU and Utah secure defining victories, reinforcing their status as formidable contenders in the reshaped Big 12 Conference. For the BYU Cougars, the pivotal moment arrived on October 18th in the emotionally charged Holy War matchup against their in-state rivals. Their narrow 24-21 victory over the Utes, sealed by a crucial fourth-down stop, was not just a win for the season—it was a seismic, statement victory that validated BYU’s early success and provided immense momentum. The game showcased the clutch gene of quarterback Bear Bachmeier and the relentless rushing of LJ Martin, proving the Cougars can win tough, grinding games when the pressure is highest. This rivalry win was essential in establishing their early undefeated record and setting a high bar for the program’s Big 12 aspirations.While BYU’s key victory was highly emotional, Utah’s defining win against Baylor, a dominant 55-28 performance on the road on November 15th, demonstrated sheer physical superiority. After a mid-season slump, the Utes showcased the league’s top rushing attack, racking up 380 yards on the ground. True freshman Byrd Ficklin emerged as a catalytic force, breaking long touchdown runs of 67 and 74 yards. This resounding road victory was critical for the No. 15 Utes, re-establishing their identity as a ground-and-pound power. The margin of victory and the efficiency of the offense and defense ensured Utah remained firmly in contention for the Big 12 Championship race, proving they can bounce back decisively from adversity and control a game through the line of scrimmage.Ultimately, these two wins served different but equally vital purposes. BYU’s victory provided the emotional lift and rivalry bragging rights needed to power their momentum, while Utah’s win provided the decisive, dominant conference victory necessary to sustain their championship hopes.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big 12 Conference slate this weekend is exceptionally strong, marked by several high-stakes matchups that directly impact the race for the December 6th Championship Game in Arlington. With the conference standings bottlenecked at the top—featuring No. 6 Texas Tech (9-1) followed closely by No. 12 BYU (8-1) and No. 25 Cincinnati (7-2)—every game involving a contender is essentially an elimination game.The most anticipated Big 12 showdown features No. 12 BYU hosting TCU. For the Cougars, coming off their first loss of the season, this is a must-win to maintain control of their destiny and set up a potential winner-take-all game against Cincinnati next week. TCU, while sitting mid-pack, desperately needs a victory to play spoiler and keep their outside bowl hopes alive.Further shaping the standings are No. 13 Utah at Baylor and No. 6 Texas Tech hosting UCF. Utah needs to win to keep pace with the one-loss teams ahead of them, while Texas Tech must handle an unpredictable UCF squad to maintain their firm lead as the current favorite for the title game. With the Big 12 aiming to get multiple teams into the expanded CFP field, the conference's strength isn't just in top-ten teams, but in the sheer depth of dangerous opponents forcing contenders to play high-leverage football every single week. This concentration of competitive teams makes the Week 12 schedule one of the strongest in the nation.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

OU and Texas, the newcomers of the SEC, square off with Alabama and Georgia this weekend in two huge games.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Committee experienced a sudden and significant leadership shake-up in November 2025, just weeks before the final rankings were due to be released for the expanded 12-team playoff. The catalyst for the changes was Baylor Athletic Director Mack Rhoades, who stepped down from his role as CFP Selection Committee Chairman and took a leave of absence from the university. Rhoades’ departure came amid reports of an internal investigation into new, unspecified allegations regarding administrative conduct. He had previously been investigated by Baylor for an alleged verbal and physical confrontation with a football player and an assistant coach during a game in September. His resignation left both the committee chairman position and the Big 12 representative slot vacant at a critical juncture in the season. To fill the primary leadership role, Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek was swiftly nominated to serve as the new CFP Selection Committee Chairman. Yurachek was already a sitting member of the committee, and his appointment aims to restore stability and provide a consistent public face for the rankings discussions. Meanwhile, the Big 12 conference recommended Utah Athletic Director Mark Harlan to fill Rhoades’ vacancy as a voting member on the committee. Harlan has previous experience on the committee, having served in 2023, and his re-addition ensures the conference is appropriately represented as the selection process concludes and the first-round matchups are determined. The quick reshuffling involving Yurachek and Harlan was necessary to stabilize the ranking process during the final, high-stakes stretch of the college football season. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectoll Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The argument that BYU and Utah are undervalued by the College Football Playoff Committee often centers on a deep-seated institutional and brand bias that favors traditional powerhouses. Despite both teams—especially after joining the new P4 conference—amassing solid resumes, the committee’s ranking logic appears inconsistent when compared to peer teams from the SEC or Big Ten.For BYU, the undervaluation is evident even in their best years. When the Cougars were undefeated, they were often ranked below one-loss teams from the perceived “elite” conferences, suggesting a penalty for a lack of "brand credibility" rather than on-field performance. After their first loss, the drop in rankings is often precipitous, falling behind two-loss teams like Texas or Oklahoma, who benefit from the narrative of “quality losses.” This differential treatment suggests the committee rewards the mere potential or reputation of established programs more than the actual, tangible Strength of Record (SOR) earned by BYU.Utah’s case highlights the harsh grading curve applied to Big 12 losses. As a consistently tough, defensive-minded program, their two losses this season came against other highly-ranked Big 12 teams (BYU and Texas Tech). Yet, their ranking near No. 13 keeps them just outside the contention tier, a placement often occupied by two-loss teams from other conferences that have a perceived higher overall floor. The Utes' methodical style, coupled with the committee's tendency to devalue close wins or reward teams for "style points," means Utah is held to a higher standard of dominance to secure an elite ranking. Ultimately, both Utah and BYU are fighting not just opponents on the field, but a long-standing culture that rewards historical brand over current results and strength metrics within a less historically favored conference.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This is a sensitive topic that requires careful consideration of the boundary between sports commentary and religious critique. While specific public incidents involving ESPN’s Ryan McGee and perceived mockery of the Latter-day Saint (LDS) faith have occasionally surfaced in fan discussions, the broader conversation centers on the inherent tension when a religious institution like Brigham Young University (BYU) intersects with secular, often irreverent, sports media.The foundation of the critique is that comments intended as lighthearted jokes about BYU’s restrictive Honor Code, the prohibition of Sunday play, or the unique cultural norms of the faith are often interpreted by members as dismissive or mocking of sincerely held religious beliefs. For many, the distinction between satirizing the football team and minimizing their creed is virtually nonexistent.Commentators, including those in the national spotlight, might employ humor related to these cultural distinctives for quick reaction or content. However, such remarks risk falling into the trope of "othering"—treating the faith's deeply personal practices as an amusing oddity rather than a respected way of life. When humor touches on tenets of faith, it can feel like a direct attack on the integrity of the religion itself.This dynamic often places McGee, and other major sports media figures, in a precarious position. While professional media is expected to be unbiased in sports analysis, a perceived lack of reverence or a casual joke about the faith's practices can be quickly amplified by large fan bases. The reaction highlights a continuous need for major networks to recognize the highly sensitive nature of religious affiliation, ensuring that sports commentary is separated from religious ridicule, regardless of the intended light-heartedness.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The scenario of the SEC placing eight teams into the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) is the ultimate "chaos theory" outcome, considered highly improbable but theoretically possible under the current format, which awards seven at-large bids in addition to the five highest-ranked conference champions.The Math: A Near-Total Conference DominationFor eight SEC teams to qualify, the conference would need to capture six of the seven at-large spots, in addition to their conference champion securing one of the five automatic qualifying (AQ) spots. This would require:A Two-Bid Power Four: The Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC would have to experience extreme cannibalization, resulting in their champions being ranked outside the top four and potentially only sending one team each (the AQ champion). This means no high-ranking at-large teams from those leagues would qualify.No Notre Dame/Top Independents: Teams like Notre Dame, which traditionally take an at-large spot, would need to have two or three losses, eliminating them from contention.Elite Depth in the SEC: The SEC would need to finish the regular season with six teams ranked from roughly No. 5 to No. 11, all having quality 10-2 or 9-3 records, with their losses exclusively coming from other highly-ranked SEC teams. This depth would give them the strongest résumés nationally.Why It's UnlikelyWhile the SEC has the nation's strongest recruiting and deepest pool of top-ranked teams, the scenario is hampered by a few key constraints:The Big Ten Block: The Big Ten is consistently strong, and it is highly unlikely for them to be limited to just one team. Projections typically give the Big Ten at least three or four bids.Committee Bias: The selection committee's historical philosophy suggests they would try to create a balanced field. Even if an eighth SEC team had a better résumé than a 10-2 Big 12 or ACC runner-up, the committee is unlikely to use 67% of the total playoff field on one conference.Realistically, the SEC's cap in a 12-team field is likely five or six teams in an optimal year, with eight remaining a fun, but remote, hypothetical.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Committee delivered a tough assessment of the Big 12 race tonight, dropping the BYU Cougars from No. 7 all the way down to No. 12 in its second set of rankings for the 2025 season. This substantial drop—five spots—is a direct consequence of their decisive 29-7 road loss to Texas Tech this past Saturday. The Committee's Message The significant slide, despite the loss being to a previously-ranked top-10 team, sends a clear message about the selection committee's view of the game: The Nature of the Loss: The margin of defeat (29-7) was a dominant, one-sided affair where BYU's offense was completely stifled, managing a season-low 255 total yards. The committee appears to have penalized BYU heavily for the comprehensive nature of the defeat, not just the loss itself. Texas Tech's Rise: In stark contrast, Texas Tech, which won the head-to-head matchup, rose two spots from No. 8 to No. 6, jumping ahead of Ole Miss and Oregon. This leap indicates the committee viewed the Red Raiders' performance as a validation of their own high ranking, further diminishing BYU's previous ranking at No. 7. Big 12 Hierarchy: The ranking confirms a new hierarchy in the Big 12, with Texas Tech taking the top spot at No. 6, followed by BYU at No. 12, and Utah positioned right behind them at No. 13. Impact on the Playoff Picture The new ranking is a major setback for the Cougars' chances of an at-large bid in the expanded 12-team CFP: Margin for Error Gone: The Cougars (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) can now absolutely not afford another loss. While a one-loss conference champion is guaranteed an automatic bid, a two-loss BYU team would likely be entirely dependent on chaos in other conferences to sneak in via an at-large bid. The Path Forward: BYU's primary path to the CFP is now simple: win out and win the Big 12 Championship. They must now beat TCU and Cincinnati to secure their place in the title game, where they would likely face the Red Raiders again. The drop to No. 12 puts BYU squarely on the bubble, making their next two weeks of Big 12 play the most critical of their season. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDash With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. SupplyHouse Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectoll Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The massive victory by No. 9 Texas Tech over No. 7 BYU has profoundly simplified the Big 12 Championship picture, though a number of scenarios remain that could still create a chaotic finish to the 2025 season. As of Monday, November 10, the race for the two spots in the Arlington title game is effectively a three-way battle at the top, with the Red Raiders controlling their destiny. The Most Likely Scenario: Texas Tech vs. BYU This is the most probable outcome, given the current standings and remaining schedules.Texas Tech's Straight Path: The Red Raiders (6-1 Big 12) own the critical head-to-head tiebreaker over BYU and are the clear frontrunner with the highest win probability (around 70%) to finish first. If Texas Tech wins its remaining conference games, they are guaranteed a spot in the Big 12 Championship.BYU's Control: Despite the loss, BYU (5-1 Big 12) still controls its own destiny to the second spot. If the Cougars win their remaining three games—including a pivotal matchup with Cincinnati—they will finish with a 7-1 record, and the tiebreakers would likely put them in the title game against Texas Tech. The Cincinnati Factor The Bearcats (5-1 Big 12) are the main spoiler in the race:Cincinnati's Critical Game: Cincinnati's path hinges on their ability to beat BYU later this month. If Cincinnati defeats BYU, the Cougars would drop to 5-2, and the Bearcats would leapfrog them for second place. If both Texas Tech and Cincinnati win out their remaining games, the title game would be Texas Tech vs. Cincinnati. The Chaos Scenario: Three-Way Tie or More If BYU, Cincinnati, and Texas Tech all finish with the same conference record (7-2 or 6-3), the complicated multi-team tiebreakers would come into play. This would rely on more upsets in the final weeks, potentially allowing a two-loss team like Utah (4-2 Big 12) or Houston (5-2 Big 12) to slip into the second spot. However, all three one-loss teams remain strong favorites in their remaining games, making the head-to-head results among the top three the most defining factors.The Big 12 is set for a dramatic finish, but right now, all eyes are on Texas Tech to solidify their new position atop the league.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The previously undefeated No. 7 BYU Cougars suffered a decisive 29-7 loss to No. 9 Texas Tech on Saturday, November 8, 2025, a result that dramatically reshaped the Big 12 Championship race and complicated BYU's path to the expanded College Football Playoff (CFP). The Defensive Masterclass The story of the game was the suffocating performance of the Texas Tech defense, which held the high-powered BYU offense to a season-low 255 total yards and just 67 yards rushing.Key Defensive Plays: Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was a standout, recording 14 tackles, a tackle for loss, and two crucial takeaways (an interception and a recovered fumble).Struggles on Offense: BYU's true freshman quarterback, Bear Bachmeier, struggled to move the ball consistently, completing 23 of 38 passes for 188 yards and committing two turnovers. The Cougars were held scoreless until the fourth quarter. The Impact on the Big 12 The loss, which snapped BYU's 10-game winning streak dating back to the previous season, had immediate and significant consequences:Texas Tech Rises: The Red Raiders (9-1, 6-1 Big 12) took sole possession of first place and are now the clear favorites to secure a spot in the Big 12 Championship game, holding the head-to-head tiebreaker over the Cougars.Loss of Control: BYU (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) lost control of their destiny. While they could still reach the Big 12 Championship by winning their remaining games, they now have zero margin for error. A second conference loss would likely require significant help from other teams to make the final.CFP Outlook: The one-sided nature of the defeat (29-7) caused a significant drop in BYU's CFP ranking and a dip in their odds for a coveted CFP berth. Their primary path now relies on winning the Big 12 Championship and securing the automatic qualifier spot.The blowout served as a major reality check, showcasing the defensive gap between the two teams and elevating Texas Tech into the Big 12's leading contender.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Saturday, November 8, 2025, was one of the most consequential weekends of the Big 12 season, featuring a top-10 showdown that created a new frontrunner and a number of shocking results that dramatically tightened the race for the conference championship. 🔴 The Main Event: Texas Tech Crushes BYU The biggest story was the dominant performance by No. 9 Texas Tech, which dismantled previously unbeaten No. 8 BYU, 29-7, in Lubbock. With College GameDay in attendance, the Red Raiders’ elite defense held the explosive Cougars to a season-low in yardage and scoring. The win was a statement victory that vaulted Texas Tech (6-1 Big 12) into sole possession of first place and cemented them as the clear favorite to reach the Big 12 Championship game. BYU (5-1 Big 12) now needs help to secure a spot in Arlington. 🌪️ Chaos in the Middle Tier The depth of the Big 12 proved its competitive fire with two major upsets that shuffled the middle of the standings:Iowa State Shocks TCU: The Horned Frogs (6-3 overall) suffered a devastating 20-17 loss at home to Iowa State, who snapped a four-game losing streak. The Cyclones scored 14 unanswered points in the fourth quarter, highlighted by a 79-yard punt return touchdown, to snatch the win. The loss severely damages TCU’s bowl positioning and keeps them mired in the middle tier of the conference (3-3 Big 12).Arizona Outlasts Kansas: In a crucial game for bowl eligibility, Arizona (6-3, 3-3 Big 12) scored a last-minute touchdown to beat Kansas, 24-20. The Jayhawks (5-5, 3-4 Big 12) missed a short field goal late, allowing Arizona to mount an 80-yard game-winning drive in the final seconds. The victory made the Wildcats officially bowl-eligible in a major step for their program. ⚖️ Conference Standings Shake-Up With the results, the Big 12 race has narrowed:Front-Runners: Texas Tech (6-1), BYU (5-1), and Cincinnati (5-1) are at the top.In The Hunt: Houston (5-2), Utah (4-2), and Arizona State (4-2) remain within striking distance, making the final few weeks of the season a brutal, must-win gauntlet.This chaotic weekend has made the Big 12 the most unpredictable conference in college football, ensuring a dramatic finish to the race for the two spots in the Championship Game.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

💥 Big 12 Saturday Recap: Texas Tech Dominates BYU in Top-10 Showdown Saturday, November 8, was defined by a massive Big 12 Championship and College Football Playoff elimination match, where No. 9 Texas Tech delivered a crushing 29-7 victory over previously undefeated and higher-ranked No. 8 BYU in Lubbock. The Headliner: Texas Tech 29, BYU 7 The Red Raiders hosted ESPN's College GameDay for the critical top-10 tilt and put on a defensive clinic.Defense Wins the Day: Texas Tech’s elite defense completely stifled BYU’s potent rushing attack, holding the Cougars to a season-low 255 total yards. Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was instrumental, recording an interception and a fumble recovery.BYU's Costly Mistakes: The Cougars' offense struggled, and special teams errors proved costly, including a muffed punt and a shanked kick that immediately gave Texas Tech prime field position and momentum.Red Raiders Take Control: While the offense was steady, relying on a school-record five field goals from Stone Harrington and a 121-yard rushing day from Cameron Dickey, the win propelled Texas Tech (9-1, 6-1 Big 12) into sole possession of first place in the conference standings. Big 12 Championship Implications The lopsided result instantly clarified the conference race:Texas Tech's Destiny: The Red Raiders are now in the driver's seat for their first-ever Big 12 Championship Game appearance. They hold the critical tiebreaker over the Cougars.BYU's Uphill Battle: The loss snapped an eight-game winning streak for BYU (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) and severely complicated their path to the title game, forcing them to win out and hope for favorable results elsewhere.The Contenders: The focus now shifts to the remaining one-loss teams like Cincinnati (5-1 Big 12) to see if they can catch the Red Raiders in the final weeks of the season.The statement win by Texas Tech not only established them as the Big 12's premier team but also greatly bolstered their resume for a berth in the expanded 12-team CFP.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders made a definitive statement in the Big 12 race on November 8, 2025, handing the No. 7 BYU Cougars their first loss in a dominating 29-7 performance. Played in front of a packed, high-stakes College GameDay crowd in Lubbock, the victory was not driven by the high-octane offense the Big 12 is known for, but rather by an absolute defensive masterclass that instantly solidified Texas Tech as a serious College Football Playoff contender.The most critical element of the win was the Red Raider defense, which completely neutralized the previously undefeated Cougars’ offense. They transformed BYU’s prolific rushing attack into a non-factor, holding the Cougars to a mere 67 total rushing yards—a season-worst performance for BYU and less than half their season average. The defensive front, which the program invested heavily in during the offseason, applied relentless pressure on freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. He looked uncomfortable and was held under 200 passing yards, rarely having the time to attempt a deep ball. Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, in particular, was everywhere, recording 14 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble, showcasing a suffocating team effort.While the Red Raider offense settled for four short field goals throughout the game, their ground game was efficient and crucial to controlling the clock. Running back Cameron Dickey delivered a hard-fought performance, chewing up the turf for 121 rushing yards. This solid ground attack gave the defense plenty of rest, denying BYU opportunities to mount a comeback. Quarterback Behren Morton’s one touchdown pass to Caleb Douglas in the first quarter set the early tone, establishing a lead the Red Raiders’ elite defense would never relinquish.This win was a monumental step for the Red Raiders. By shutting down the previously undefeated Cougars and securing the head-to-head tiebreaker, Texas Tech now controls its destiny for a Big 12 Championship appearance. The game demonstrated that in the era of high-octane offense, the Red Raiders’ investment in an elite, suffocating defense can be the ultimate formula for championship success.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The undefeated Brigham Young Cougars enter their top-ten clash against the Texas Tech Red Raiders as significant underdogs, but their 8-0 record is built on specific strengths perfectly tailored to create an upset. While Texas Tech boasts an elite defensive line and home-field advantage in Lubbock, BYU’s path to victory lies in winning the turnover and situational battles, neutralizing the Red Raiders’ pass rush, and showcasing the composure that has defined their perfect season.The primary reason BYU can win rests on their elite defensive performance in high-leverage moments. The Cougars own one of the best turnover margins in the nation, currently sitting at $+10$ (4th nationally). This ability to force opponent mistakes and maximize possessions is crucial against a balanced Texas Tech team. Furthermore, BYU’s defense excels in the red zone, consistently holding opponents to field goals rather than touchdowns. This efficiency, ranking 13th in points allowed per scoring opportunity, is the necessary equalizer against an aggressive Red Raider offense.Offensively, the game will be won in the trenches. Texas Tech’s defensive front is one of the country’s best, but BYU counters with an equally strong offensive line that has allowed pressure on a minimal $1.9\%$ of dropbacks. If the line can stand firm, it will protect true freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier and allow him to utilize the Cougars' balanced attack, which ranks 21st in points per drive. Bachmeier’s composure, combined with the team’s willingness to play a slower, methodical tempo, can keep the explosive Red Raiders’ offense sidelined.Ultimately, BYU can beat Texas Tech by maintaining their high floor of consistency. They are well-coached, execute efficiently, and have proven they can close out tight games—a key trait for an underdog. By forcing turnovers, winning the red-zone battle, and generating just enough offense against a stout defense, the Cougars have the formula to leave Lubbock with their perfect record intact.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Utah Utes (7-2, 4-2 Big 12) are firmly in the conversation for the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP), despite starting the season with two Big 12 losses. The team was ranked No. 13 in the initial CFP rankings, placing them just outside the field, but significantly higher than their AP Poll ranking, suggesting the committee sees their potential.    📈 The Challenge and The Opportunity Utah's path is defined by two key factors:Resume Deficiencies: The Utes currently lack a win over a team ranked in the first CFP Top 25. Critically, their two losses came against the two highest-ranked Big 12 teams, No. 7 BYU and No. 8 Texas Tech. This creates a difficult hurdle for an at-large bid, especially if they are viewed as the third-best team in their conference.  The Path Forward: For Utah to secure an at-large bid, winning out and finishing 10-2 is non-negotiable. Their remaining schedule includes games at Baylor, vs. Kansas State, and at Kansas. They will need dominant wins to impress the committee and increase their low-ranking Strength of Schedule (SOS).   🤝 Needing Help for the Big 12 Title The clearest route for Utah to guarantee a CFP spot is by winning the Big 12 Championship for an automatic bid. To get to the title game, they need help, specifically for either BYU or Texas Tech (or both) to drop a second conference game. If they manage to earn a spot in the Big 12 Championship and win, they would be an automatic qualifier.In an at-large scenario, the Utes need chaos among the teams ranked No. 9 through No. 12—like losses for Notre Dame, Texas, or Oklahoma—to climb high enough. A 10-2 finish leaves them reliant on other upsets to jump into the final field.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big 12 slate this weekend, November 8th and 9th, 2025, is arguably the strongest of the season, highlighted by a massive, top-ten showdown that has College Football Playoff implications for the entire conference. 🔥 The Main Event: No. 7 BYU at No. 8 Texas Tech The centerpiece is the clash in Lubbock between the No. 7 BYU Cougars and the No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders.This is a rare top-10 Big 12 matchup and a de facto Big 12 Championship semi-final for the conference’s expanded 12-team playoff bid.ESPN’s College GameDay is in attendance, emphasizing the magnitude of the game, which essentially serves as a title elimination contest for the loser.BYU is the last remaining undefeated team in the conference, while Texas Tech is only a single loss behind, making this game pivotal for the final Big 12 standings. ⚔️ Crucial Mid-Tier Battles Beyond the headliner, the rest of the schedule features critical games for bowl eligibility and jockeying for position in the crowded middle of the conference:Iowa State at TCU: Both teams are fighting to secure bowl eligibility. TCU, coming off a two-game win streak, needs a victory to keep pace, while Iowa State is trying to break a four-game skid.Kansas at Arizona: This is a crucial game for two teams sitting at 5-4 and 5-3, respectively. A win gets one team to a much safer bowl position and demonstrates upward trajectory in their first years in the expanded Big 12.Colorado at West Virginia: Two teams struggling to stay out of the conference basement, but the winner gains much-needed momentum and a better outlook for the final weeks.This slate is strong not just because of the marquee top-10 matchup, but because nearly every contest has direct, high-stakes consequences for the Big 12 standings, bowl projections, and the conference’s pursuit of multiple CFP bids.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For the last two years, BYU football has operated in a challenging but ultimately successful period, cementing their status as a consistently elite program while somehow remaining nationally overlooked. The primary source of this paradoxical status is the program's jump from FBS Independent to the rigorous Big 12 Conference. While their debut season in the conference (2023) was an expected adjustment, their follow-up campaign in 2024 demonstrated an elite capability that defied preseason prognostications and national media attention.The 2024 season is the core evidence of this excellence. Despite being picked to finish near the bottom of the Big 12, the Cougars stunned the nation by finishing 11-2 overall, tying for first place in the conference, and closing the year ranked No. 13 in the final AP Poll following a dominant Alamo Bowl victory. Their success wasn't just offensive firepower; the defense ranked No. 3 nationally in pass efficiency defense and tied for the FBS lead in total interceptions, showcasing a top-tier unit capable of competing with any Power Four program.The "overlooked" aspect stems from two main factors. First, the program's recent history as an independent meant they frequently battled the "schedule strength" bias, a perception that lingers despite their Big 12 alignment. Second, their consistent development of NFL talent is often minimized. The success of recent draft picks like offensive lineman Kingsley Suamataia and, most notably, wide receiver Puka Nacua (who became an immediate, record-breaking star in the NFL), clearly illustrates an elite level of coaching and player evaluation. BYU has quietly transitioned into a Big 12 powerhouse, and it's time for the national conversation to catch up to their resultsSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big 12's Strong Showing The conference placed multiple teams high in the first-ever 12-team CFP field rankings, reflecting its strong overall performance and several undefeated or one-loss records halfway through the season.BYU (8-0, 5-0 Big 12) was ranked No. 7 nationally. As one of the few remaining undefeated teams in a major conference, the Cougars’ ranking validated their strong start and wins, including a key rivalry victory against Utah.Texas Tech (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) followed closely behind at No. 8. The Red Raiders earned their spot with a resume featuring several impressive conference victories.The simultaneous high rankings of these two teams set the stage for one of the biggest Big 12 matchups of the year: a top-10 showdown between No. 7 BYU and No. 8 Texas Tech that will significantly impact the conference championship race and their respective playoff paths. 🔢 Playoff Implications For the Big 12, the new 12-team playoff format means the conference champion will automatically receive a berth, likely securing one of the four first-round byes if ranked high enough. The high placement of BYU and Texas Tech gives the conference excellent leverage to secure two or even three bids to the expanded playoff, with other teams like Oklahoma and Texas also being closely watched.The subsequent weekly rankings will be crucial, as the committee continues to evaluate head-to-head results and strength of schedule, particularly for the two top Big 12 contenders as they face a tough final month of conference play.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.