The Big 12 Conference is undergoing significant changes as it prepares for the upcoming college football season. With the departure of Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC, the conference has realigned and expanded to a 16-team format, welcoming former Pac-12 schools Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah.
One of the most notable shifts in college football is the expanded College Football Playoff (CFP) structure, which now includes 12 teams with five spots reserved for conference champions. This change ensures that the winners of the Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, and ACC will have a place in the playoff field.
Despite concerns about revenue distribution favoring certain conferences, Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark remains optimistic about the conference's future. Yormark emphasized the importance of on-field performance over financial considerations and expressed confidence in the Big 12's competitiveness.
While the Big Ten and SEC currently hold a dominant position in college football, the Big 12 and ACC are determined to prove their worth on the national stage. Yormark has advocated for a review of the CFP financial agreement after the 2027 season, suggesting potential adjustments to ensure fair distribution of revenue.
Looking ahead, there is speculation about further CFP expansion to 14 teams in 2026. Yormark and the conference's stakeholders are open to the idea but prefer to evaluate the impact of the current season before making a decision.
For teams in the Big 12, the absence of flagship schools like Texas and Oklahoma presents both challenges and opportunities. Programs like TCU and Colorado, with past national championships, aim to establish themselves as strong contenders in the reconfigured conference.
As college football continues to evolve, the Big 12 remains committed to enhancing its football programs and embracing the competitive landscape. With a focus on building a strong foundation for the future, the conference is poised to navigate the changing dynamics of collegiate athletics.
