Week 4 of the college football season has concluded, bringing excitement to the Big 12 conference. Using the On3 Massey Ratings, here’s how the Big 12 teams are currently ranked.
The On3 Massey Ratings—which were officially utilized during the BCS era and have been providing high school sports rankings since 1995—evaluate teams based on game outcomes, strength of schedule, and margin of victory.
These Big 12 Power Rankings follow a week filled with conference games, including a Top 25 matchup, a notable upset, and a Hail Mary that forced overtime. It was a thrilling and unpredictable week, leading to significant changes in last week’s rankings.
10. Cincinnati Bearcats (3-1, 1-0)
The Cincinnati Bearcats showcased their dominance over the Houston Cougars this weekend, highlighting the disparity in their program’s progression as they both enter their second season in the Big 12. This victory marked Scott Satterfield’s first home win against a power conference team. The Bearcats will face a critical road match against Texas Tech next week, a game that could help establish their standings in the conference.
9. Arizona State Sun Devils (3-1, 0-1)
Entering their first Big 12 season with modest expectations, the Arizona State Sun Devils had a promising 3-0 start. Unfortunately, their first conference game against Texas Tech ended in disappointment. The team has shown strength in their running game, particularly with Cameron Skattebo, but they need consistency to succeed.
8. West Virginia Mountaineers (2-2, 1-0)
West Virginia has had an inconsistent start, suffering heart-wrenching losses to Penn State and Pitt, but they managed to secure a comeback victory against Kansas. With a bye week ahead, they aim to regroup before facing a tough schedule in conference play that includes three ranked teams in October.
7. Texas Tech Red Raiders (3-1, 1-0)
The Texas Tech Red Raiders kicked off their Big 12 campaign with a 30-22 victory against Arizona State. Texas Tech maintained control throughout the game, even after establishing a two-touchdown lead in the fourth quarter. Looking ahead, the Red Raiders need to address their issues, including the nine penalties from the Arizona State game, as they prepare for their next matchup against Cincinnati, particularly focusing on stopping Xzavier Henderson.
6. Kansas State Wildcats (3-1, 0-1)
The Kansas State Wildcats entered the season with hopes of contending for the Big 12 Championship and a possible College Football Playoff spot. While that goal is still achievable, a loss in their first Big 12 game against BYU has significantly impacted their power rankings. The defeat was not just about the loss but also how they lost, as BYU dominated the game 38-9. Quarterback Avery Johnson’s two interceptions and a failure to convert on three third-down attempts ultimately hurt the Wildcats, even though they outgained BYU by over 100 yards.
5. UCF Knights (3-0, 1-0)
The UCF Knights are maintaining their position in the Big 12 power rankings following a bye week. This break should help them regroup after their impressive 21-point comeback against TCU in Week 3. Now, they’re focused on their upcoming matchup against the Colorado Buffaloes, which is set to be one of the highlight games in Week 5.
A crucial factor for this game will be the battles in the trenches. UCF boasts one of the top rushing attacks in the nation, averaging 375.67 yards per game, which ranks first in the country. In contrast, Colorado is at 83rd in rushing defense, allowing 150.75 yards on the ground per game
4. Oklahoma State Cowboys (3-1, 0-1)
The Oklahoma State Cowboys experienced their first loss in the Big 12 this season, falling to a strong Utah team. Despite the defeat, they remain near the top of the conference power rankings, but it was still a disappointing outing for them.
One major concern has been the running game. The Cowboys started the season with Ollie Gordon, one of the top returning running backs in the nation. So far, though, he has averaged only 3.5 yards per carry and 64.5 yards per game. Additionally, the passing game struggled against Utah, contributing to a frustrating overall performance offensively.
3. BYU Cougars (4-0, 1-0)
The BYU Cougars are making waves this season with a perfect 4-0 record and a solid 1-0 in conference play! They pulled off a stunning upset against the Kansas State Wildcats, controlling the game and allowing just nine points. Their defense shined, giving up only 139 passing yards and forcing two interceptions.
Now that they’re ranked in the AP Top 25, the Cougars are on everyone’s radar, and it’s crucial for them to stay focused to avoid any letdown against Baylor this week. With a challenging Big 12 schedule ahead after their bye week, maintaining momentum will be key!
2. The Utah Utes (4-0, 1-0)
The Utah Utes are off to a strong start this season with a 4-0 record and a 1-0 mark in conference play! They showcased a stellar defensive performance against the Oklahoma State Cowboys, limiting them to just 19 points. The Utes managed to force two interceptions and effectively contained star running back Ollie Gordon, allowing him only 42 yards rushing.
However, a significant concern looms for the Utes: the quarterback position. Cam Rising has missed the last two games due to a hand injury. There was hope he might return for the matchup against Oklahoma State, but he ultimately sat out. Isaac Wilson stepped in and had an up-and-down performance in his place, raising questions about the team’s future dynamics.
1. Iowa State Cyclones (3-0)
The Iowa State Cyclones have ascended to first place in the Big 12 Power Rankings after Week 4. They achieved this by performing well last week and benefiting from upsets in the rankings above them. Additionally, the Cyclones have established themselves as one of the dominant defenses in the conference thus far.
Next week, Iowa State opens up conference play with a road trip against the Houston Cougars. That’s a game the Cyclones will be expected to win and could help solidify themselves as one of the top teams in the conference. After that, Iowa State is going to turn its attention to finding long-term success and potentially even make a run at the conference championship game.
Rest of Big 12 Power Rankings
11. Arizona Wildcats (2-1)
The Arizona Wildcats have started the season with a solid record but still have challenges ahead as they compete in the Big 12.
12. TCU Horned Frogs (2-2, 0-1)
TCU has had a shaky start, struggling in their conference opener and looking to bounce back in the upcoming games.
13. Kansas Jayhawks (1-3, 0-1)
The Kansas Jayhawks are searching for momentum after a tough start to the season, needing to improve to stay competitive in the Big 12.
14. Colorado Buffaloes (3-1, 1-0)
The Colorado Buffaloes are off to a promising start, currently holding their own in the conference. Their early success could be a sign of good things to come.
15. Baylor Bears (2-2, 0-1)
Baylor has faced ups and downs this season and is now looking to turn things around after a challenging start to conference play.
16. Houston Cougars (1-3, 0-1)
The Houston Cougars are struggling to find their footing, with a disappointing record that reflects their challenges in the early part of the season.
As conference play ramps up, teams in the Big 12 will begin to distinguish themselves and solidify their standings. There’s still plenty of time for teams to elevate their rankings and make a mark in the conference.
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