The 2026 college football season is officially underway, with one team from the Big 12 already having played its opening game. As the rest of the conference gears up for their matchups this week, it’s an ideal moment to explore predictions for the season ahead, particularly from the Buffaloes Wire staff.
In previous analyses, we have focused on predictions specific to the Colorado Buffaloes, including insights on offensive and defensive MVPs, overall record forecasts, and the biggest questions facing the team. Now, we turn our attention to the broader landscape of the Big 12, offering predictions for standout players, the Coach of the Year, and championship game matchups.
When it comes to the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, running back LJ Martin from BYU is a strong favorite. After an impressive 2025 season where he led the conference with 1,305 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, Martin is expected to continue his dominance on the field. His performance last season, which included 236 rushing attempts, established him as a key player for the Cougars, and many believe he can replicate or even exceed those numbers this year.
Another contender for the Offensive Player of the Year is Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Johnson is anticipated to have a significant bounce-back season, making him a player to watch as the season unfolds.
On the defensive side, Texas Tech’s A.J. Holmes Jr. is a leading candidate for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Holmes had a standout season in 2025, recording 38 total tackles, including 19 solo tackles, and 4.5 sacks. His performance has positioned him as a favorite, especially with Texas Tech expected to be a top contender in the conference this year. Another name to consider is BYU linebacker Cade Uluave, who has consistently demonstrated elite defensive skills, including 100 total tackles last season.
As for the Coach of the Year, Willie Fritz of Houston is a strong contender. Although Houston may not boast the depth of talent seen in teams like Texas Tech and BYU, Fritz is expected to keep the Cougars competitive throughout the season, potentially leading them to the Big 12 championship game. Other notable mentions include Morgan Scalley of Utah, who is expected to maintain the program's success, and Brent Brennan of Arizona, whose leadership has the Wildcats positioned as a sleeper team for the title.
In terms of championship predictions, there is a consensus that Texas Tech will emerge victorious once again, likely facing BYU in the title game. Last season, Texas Tech dominated BYU in the championship match, and with a favorable schedule this year, they are expected to repeat that success. However, there are also predictions that Utah could make a strong run for the title, especially given their manageable schedule and home-field advantage against BYU.
As the season progresses, these predictions will be put to the test, and fans will be eager to see how the teams and players perform in the competitive landscape of the Big 12.
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