The excitement surrounding the Big 12 Conference is palpable as teams gear up for a new season filled with high stakes and fierce competition. The conference has seen a shake-up with new member teams joining, adding to the already intense rivalries. Coaches are strategizing how to adapt to the evolving landscape of college football while players are honing their skills, ready to make an impact on the field.

Fans are keenly watching standout players who are expected to shine this season. With the NFL draft looming, many players will be striving to elevate their draft stock through stellar performances. The Big 12's depth in talent means that every game could impact the national rankings, making each matchup crucial for playoff aspirations. As conference play heats up, keep an eye on the underdogs who might upset the traditional powerhouses.

The college sports landscape continues to shift dramatically, with Texas State set to leave the Sun Belt for the Pac-12. Texas and Oklahoma are entering their second season in the SEC after departing the Big 12, marking a significant change in conference dynamics. Texas A&M has been a steady SEC member since 2012. The Big 12 has adapted by adding schools like Cincinnati and UCF, while local teams such as Baylor and Texas Tech remain, unaffected by the upheaval.

In the ACC, SMU's addition from the American Athletic Conference has proven fruitful, leading them to the ACC Championship in their first season. The AAC has replenished by welcoming new members like North Texas and Charlotte after losing teams to the Big 12. As these transitions unfold, it remains critical to keep track of where each team stands ahead of the 2025-26 season.

The Oklahoma Sooners face an uphill battle as they prepare for the 2025 season, struggling after a disappointing 6-7 record last year. Head coach Brent Venables is adjusting to the rigors of SEC competition, grappling with a staggering number of injuries that decimated the receiving corps, including the loss of all top five options. This has forced the Sooners to rethink their offensive strategy, particularly for quarterback Jackson Arnold.

As they look ahead, the need for dependable pass-catchers is paramount. With the current roster dynamics, the coaching staff is actively exploring options to bolster their receiving depth. This focus will be crucial for the Sooners to remain competitive in a challenging conference, especially in a season where expectations are high and injuries loom as a significant concern.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for the 2026 NFL draft with a strategic five-round mock draft that addresses key roster needs. At the top of the list, South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers is projected to be selected as the franchise quarterback after an impressive 2025 season where he recorded over 2,500 passing yards and rushed for 674 yards, showcasing his dual-threat capability.

In the second round, USC's Ja'Kobi Lane, who was a standout with 12 touchdowns on just 45 receptions, is anticipated to expand his role significantly. The third round could see the addition of boundary cornerback Ashton Stamps from LSU, essential for strengthening the Steelers' defense. Boston College's Jude Bowry is a versatile offensive line option, while Oklahoma’s Febechi Nwaiwu is viewed as a solid pick for the fourth round, expected to replace Isaac Seumalo. Lastly, Clemson's Khalil Barnes, noted for his dual ability in run support and coverage, is a promising pick in the fifth round.

In college football, the wide receiver position has gained immense value, especially as top prospects from both high schools and the transfer portal become key players for major programs. Schools like Ohio State are proving this notion, consistently producing elite receivers such as Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, both of whom have made significant contributions to their team's recent successes.

As teams anticipate the 2025 season, several impactful transfers are set to make waves. Players like Malachi Fields from Notre Dame and Duce Robinson from Florida State are expected to elevate their new offenses, providing immediate upgrades. The transfer portal has simplified the recruitment of high-caliber athletes, allowing programs to enhance their rosters and, potentially, their chances for championship runs.