The Big 12 is asking for media rankings for the upcoming football season (meaning the end of summer is almost here, for me anyway). 10 Teams, Same Desire. (I should be a marketing guru). The league is down two teams so the new slate features everyone playing everyone in league play, winner take all with no conference championship game. Here's my preseason ballot.
-
Oklahoma – the only national title contender in the league, OU will show it's the cream of the crop with my preseason POY in Landry Jones. He and Ryan Broyles will be a lethal combo.
-
Texas A&M – most returning starters in the Big 12, looks like 18 and Ryan Tannehill with a full year of offseason work at QB at last year's still in my mind incredible position change
-
Oklahoma State – tough schedule, but who doesn't? At A&M, at Tex, at MU, at TT, then showdown with OU at the end. Love Brandon Weeden to Justin Blackmon combo.
-
Missouri – why wouldn't Gary Pinkel have another breakout QB? James Franklin takes over under center. Tough early stretch at Ariz St in non con, first two conf games at OU, at Kst
-
Texas – could have picked them for 4th, can't imagine that they will stay down for long, a lot rides on QB Garrett Gilbert for a team that was -12 in turnovers last year. This pick may be wishful thinking.
-
Kansas State – I'm believing the Brown Bros hype. If Arthur is a wrecking ball on D and Bryce is league's top offensive freshman the Cats could build off last year's bowl appearance by the rest of the returnees.
-
Baylor – Robert Griffin may still be the league's most exciting potential, but the D?? Can it be any better than last year's almost 500 ypg? They had just one win vs a winning team last year.
-
Texas Tech – year two for Tommy Tuberville and a well regarded recruiting class has the potential for better times in Lubbock.
-
Iowa State – A small number of returning starters have the Cyclones again looking to exceed expectations as they have prior under Paul Rhodes.
-
Kansas – my job title includes postgame host for KU, I wish I could be more optimistic. I think they will be better in year two of Turner Gill, but it may not result in more Ws. They'll be the underdog in every league game this season and will have to surprise. Who plays QB?
Preseason POY offense – Landry Jones, OU
Preseason POY defense – Travis Lewis, OU
Newcomer of year – Arthur Brown, KState
