Texas climbs to top of Big 12 Power Rankings after top 25 win
It was a wild opening weekend in college football, but the Big 12 remained relatively unscathed with a 9-1 record. All ten teams are in action once again this weekend. Entering week two, here are my Big 12 power rankings.
1. TEXAS — W 38-18 vs. #23 ULL
The Longhorns notched a convincing Top 25 win with Bijan Robinson, Hudson Card, and the defense all looking their parts. Sarkisian's first test came with a little bit of uncertainty, but he passed with flying colors. The upcoming trip to Fayetteville should show us quite a bit.
Up Next: @ Arkansas, Saturday, 6pm
2. OKLAHOMA — W 40-35 vs. Tulane
The Sooners escaped opening weekend by the skin of their teeth after a near meltdown vs. Tulane. It was an unimpressive and uninspired showing overall outside of a huge second quarter. Kicker Gabe Brkic saved their bacon and Playoff hopes.
Up Next: Home vs. Western Carolina, Saturday, 6 pm
3. IOWA STATE — W 16-10 vs. Northern Iowa
The Cyclones were without star tight end Charlie Kolar, but that's no excuse for the lack of offensive production. Brock Purdy and company just never seemed to hit their stride. The defense was stout but a little sloppy. Like in past years, I'm sure they'll figure it out, but the upcoming rivalry game with Iowa will be far more revealing.
Up Next: @ #10 Iowa, Saturday, 3:30 pm
4. TCU — W 45-3 vs. Duquesne
Look, the game was so unevenly matched that the teams agreed to 12 minute quarters in the second half. Duquesne was an inferior opponent, but the Frogs did their job and got a ton of players involved. In addition, Doug Meacham's new offense looked good during the starters' one-half of play.
Up Next: Home vs. Cal, Saturday, 2:30 pm
5. OKLAHOMA STATE — W 23-16 vs. Missouri State
The Cowboys were another team who had their troubles last weekend on the way to a win. Starting QB Spencer Sanders being unavailable due to COVID didn't help matters and must be considered. Regardless, the Pokes' rebuilt OL and running game was a problem. But it's only game one, and until we see Sanders, we haven't seen the complete picture.
Up Next: Home vs. Tulsa, Saturday, 11 am
6. KANSAS STATE — W 24-7 vs. Stanford
A dominating win over Stanford at Jerry's World to open the year. As expected, having QB Skylar Thompson back in the saddle makes a world of difference. The Wildcats dominated, and the outcome was never in doubt.
Up Next: Home vs. Southern Illinois, Saturday, 6 pm
7. TEXAS TECH — W 38-21 @ Houston
What a gutsy and much-needed win for Matt Wells and the Red Raiders. The defense was the star of the show and key to victory. The offense still needs some work, but QB Tyler Shough had his moments, and they always have good weapons at the skill spots. The type of win that could be a catalyst for further success this season.
Up Next: Home vs. SFA, Saturday, 6 pm
8. BAYLOR — W 29-20 @ Texas State
The only reason Texas State kept things close was that the Bears allowed it. If the bench doesn't empty against Texas Southern, that's a problem.
Up Next: Home vs. Texas Southern, Saturday, 6 pm
9. WEST VIRGINIA — L 30-24 @ Maryland
WVU was the only Big 12 team to lose last weekend. Maryland wasn't a cupcake opener on the road, but the Mountaineers' offense was out of sorts and mistake-ridden. QB Jarret Doege didn't look much improved from his erratic play last year. The defense gave up some plays due to the Terps' tempo but remained the team's evident strength.
Up Next: Home vs. Long Island, Saturday, 4 pm
10. KANSAS — W 17-14 vs. South Dakota
Congratulations to Lance Leipold and the Jayhawks. It was ugly and in doubt late, but a win is a win. In my eyes, KU is still pulling up the rear of the Big 12 by a comfortable margin, but at least there was a pulse. They're going to need it on Friday.
Up Next: @ #17 Coastal Carolina, Friday, 6:30 pm