big 12 look-in: four pivotal matchups part two

The BIG 12 is one of the most even conferences in the country. In this article, we preview 4 pivotal matchups that will decide who represents the conference in the BIG 12 championship and the CFP. Preview some great matchups below...

Utah at Cincinnati (October 31)

Cincinnati has an opportunity to shake up the entire Big 12 championship picture for the second consecutive week. The Bearcats stunned previously undefeated Texas Tech 37–24 on October 24, using an explosive rushing attack and forcing three turnovers to secure one of the conference's biggest upsets. Now they welcome an undefeated Utah team that has emerged as the Big 12 favorite. The Utes have relied on a strong defense and the dual-threat ability of Devon Dampier, who led Utah's comeback against Houston. A Cincinnati victory would hand Utah its first loss, potentially create a multi-team tie near the top of the conference, and revive the Bearcats' own championship hopes. For Utah, a win would preserve its perfect record ahead of consecutive major matchups against BYU and Arizona

Arizona at Kansas State (November 21)

Although Kansas State currently sits in the lower half of the Big 12 standings, this late-season matchup could prove dangerous for Arizona. The Wildcats face one of the conference's toughest schedules to end the year and could enter this game with an entirely different record. Matchups against Texas Tech and Utah come up before the teams crucial trip to Manhattan to play Kansas State. Depending on those results, Arizona could enter this contest needing a victory to remain in the playoff picture. Kansas State has struggled in conference play but still has the opportunity to become a spoiler in front of its home crowd. For Arizona, avoiding an upset against a team with a losing conference record could be just as important as winning its high-profile matchups, especially if the championship race comes down to one game.

Texas Tech at Baylor (November 21)

Texas Tech's trip to Waco could carry enormous significance as the Red Raiders attempt to secure a spot in the Big 12 Championship. With matchups against Arizona and Oklahoma State earlier in November, Texas Tech could arrive at Baylor either firmly in the championship picture or fighting to keep its hopes alive. Baylor has remained competitive with a 4–3 overall record, although consecutive losses have slowed its momentum. The Bears could play spoiler while also improving their own postseason positioning. QB DJ Lagway is inconsistent, but is talented enough to potentially carry this Baylor team to a rivalry victory. For Texas Tech, this game represents a critical opportunity to avoid a late-season setback and clinch a spot in the playoffs in a conference where several contenders are separated by a single loss. A loss to Baylor would ruin Tech’s playoff hopes entirely.

Cincinnati at BYU (November 28)

BYU's regular-season finale against Cincinnati could be one of the most consequential games of the Big 12's final weekend. The Cougars remain firmly in the championship conversation despite their overtime loss to UCF, and their victory over Notre Dame has strengthened their College Football Playoff case. Cincinnati has already demonstrated its ability to upset conference contenders with its impressive victory over Texas Tech. If BYU can navigate its difficult November schedule, including the Holy War against Utah, this matchup could determine whether the Cougars reach the Big 12 Championship Game. Cincinnati could also have an opportunity to play its way into contention depending on the next few weeks. With potential conference tiebreakers and playoff implications at stake, the regular-season finale in Provo could be a defining moment for both programs.