The expanded Big 12 Conference has delivered an absolutely awesome football slate, making the month of October and the start of November a gauntlet of must-watch matchups with massive postseason implications.

The conference race is completely fractured at the top, which creates week-to-week drama. While undefeated BYU (No. 11) and one-loss Cincinnati (No. 21) lead the conference standings, the crucial games ahead will determine their fate. This week sees a huge test as BYU travels to Ames to take on a tough Iowa State (5-2) squad, while the Bearcats host a scrappy Baylor team (4-3) that is desperate for a signature win.

Looking ahead, the conference cannibalism continues. The clash between Texas Tech (No. 14) and BYU in November is shaping up to be a pivotal contest, especially with the Red Raiders looking to bounce back from their loss to defending champion Arizona State (No. 24). The Sun Devils, now back in the mix with quarterback Sam Leavitt healthy, have a critical home game against surging Houston (6-1).

The depth is what makes the schedule so compelling. With the expanded College Football Playoff, nearly a dozen teams can credibly argue they are still alive for the title game in Arlington. Traditional rivals like the Sunflower Showdown (Kansas State at Kansas) are also set to light up the final weeks of the season, ensuring the road to the Big 12 Championship will be filled with chaos and upsets until the very last Saturday.

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