Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast

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BIG 12 BETS: Utah HAMMERS UCLA, Baylor Upsets Auburn, TCU Beats Bill Belichick, Houston and Colorado Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

This week is a massive opportunity for the Big 12 to prove its strength on a national level, with a number of high-profile, non-conference matchups. Unlike Week 0, which featured an intra-conference game, Week 1 is all about statement games.

Here's a breakdown of why this is such a big week for the conference:

Marquee Power Four Matchups: The Big 12 has several games against top teams from other Power Four conferences. These games are crucial for the conference's College Football Playoff aspirations, as a strong showing could give multiple teams a boost in their strength of schedule. The most notable games are:

Cincinnati vs. Nebraska (in Kansas City): This is a huge neutral-site game and a chance for Cincinnati to make a statement against a rebuilding Big Ten program.

Baylor vs. Auburn: A classic Big 12 vs. SEC matchup. A win for Baylor at home would be a massive resume booster.

Colorado vs. Georgia Tech: Deion Sanders' team will have the national spotlight on them as they host an ACC opponent.

TCU vs. UNC: The Horned Frogs head to Chapel Hill to face a UNC team with a new coaching staff and a chance to make an early-season statement.

Key Quarterback Debuts: Several teams are debuting new quarterbacks or seeing new starters in their first full game. The performances of these players will be a major story to watch and could set the tone for the rest of the season.

West Virginia vs. Robert Morris: This will be our first look at West Virginia's quarterback after a hard-fought battle in fall camp.

BYU vs. Portland State: True freshman Bear Bachmeier will make his highly anticipated debut as the Cougars' starter.

Oklahoma State vs. UT Martin: This will be a chance to see how the Cowboys' new-look offense performs under pressure.

New Conference Members in Action: This is the first full week where all the new Big 12 members are in action. It's an opportunity for them to showcase their talent and prove they belong in the new-look conference. Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah will all be in action with non-conference games.

This isn't just a week of football; it's a showcase for the depth and competitiveness of the new-look Big 12. The outcomes of these games will have significant implications for how the conference is viewed for the rest of the season.

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ANALYST: Big 12 is WAY Better Than Big 10, Utah BLOWING OUT UCLA Is Easy, Nico Iamaleava Is TERRIBLE Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

Utah has a strong chance to blow out UCLA in their season opener due to a few key factors. First, the Utes have a historically strong defensive identity under head coach Kyle Whittingham, and that's not expected to change. While they lost some key players from last season, they still have a formidable defensive front and linebacking corps that can dominate the line of scrimmage. This will be a major problem for a UCLA offense that has been historically weak on the ground, ranking near the bottom of the FBS in rushing yards per game last season. If Utah's defense can stop the run, it will force UCLA's new quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, to beat them with his arm, which is a major risk for a first-time starter. 🏈

Second, Utah's offense is expected to take a major leap forward under new offensive coordinator Jason Beck and quarterback Devon Dampier. Both were highly successful at New Mexico, where they had one of the nation's most explosive offenses. This new system, combined with a talented and experienced offensive line, gives Utah a huge advantage. They can now attack a UCLA defense that is replacing key pieces. While UCLA has a talented new quarterback in Nico Iamaleava, he is still unproven, and will be playing against a relentless Utah defense that thrives on creating pressure. The Utes' strong run game and improved passing attack should be more than enough to overwhelm the Bruins. Utah is favored in the game, and some advanced metrics models predict a comfortable win.

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BAD: Big 12 is CANCELLING Yearly Rivalries Like BYU, Baylor and Iowa State, Kansas State but SEC... Aug 26, 2025

Show notes

The Big 12's decision not to make the Kansas State-Iowa State and Baylor-BYU games yearly rivalries has been a point of contention and discussion among fans and media. This choice is a direct result of the league's new scheduling model, which was implemented following the conference's expansion.

"Farmageddon": A Storied Rivalry Lost

The Kansas State-Iowa State football series, known as "Farmageddon," is one of college football's longest uninterrupted rivalries, with a history spanning over 100 consecutive games. However, under the new 16-team, non-divisional format, the Big 12 has opted for a rotating schedule with only a few protected rivalries. This means the continuous "Farmageddon" series, which was just played in Dublin, is set to end after the 2026 season.

The decision has been met with frustration, particularly from fans of both schools, who argue that the conference is sacrificing a historic and commercially viable rivalry for a scheduling matrix that does not equally benefit all members. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has deferred to a committee's decision, stating that "certain things have to change moving forward." This move is seen as a way to prioritize a more balanced schedule for all 16 teams, ensuring that every program plays every other team in the conference on a regular basis.

Baylor-BYU: A Budding Rivalry Stunted

The Baylor-BYU series is a different case, as it's a newer, "budding" rivalry. The two teams have a number of similarities, including their private Christian university status and their strong fan bases. The matchup had begun to develop into a compelling annual game with a lot of on-field and cultural intrigue.

However, the Big 12's scheduling model for 2024 through 2027 does not protect this matchup as a yearly rivalry. While there's a strong desire from some fans and analysts to see the series become an annual tradition, the conference's focus is on creating a balanced schedule where every team plays a wider variety of opponents. This model is designed to promote a new sense of identity and inclusion for the league's eight new members, even at the expense of developing newer rivalries.

In essence, the Big 12's scheduling philosophy prioritizes competitive equity and broad exposure for all 16 teams over the preservation of certain traditional or developing rivalries. This has led to the unfortunate situation where matchups like "Farmageddon" will no longer be an annual fixture.

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NEW Big 12 Power Rankings: BYU Slips, Iowa State Soars, Kansas State Down, Texas Tech Low, Baylor? Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

The 2025 Big 12 football season is widely considered to be one of the most unpredictable and stacked conferences in the nation, defined by its incredible parity and a lack of a single, dominant powerhouse. While it may not have a top-five juggernaut like the SEC or Big Ten, the depth of talent and the number of teams with a legitimate shot at the conference championship make it a must-watch league.

The Contender Cluster

Instead of one or two favorites, the Big 12 has a large cluster of contenders. Preseason rankings and expert picks show a high level of confidence in several teams. For example, some experts place Arizona State and Utah in the top 20 nationally, giving the Big 12 two teams with a strong chance to make a run at the College Football Playoff. Other teams consistently mentioned in the mix include Kansas State, Texas Tech, and Iowa State. Even programs like Baylor, BYU, TCU, and Kansas are seen as having the potential to compete for the championship.

A New Era of Parity

With the departure of Texas and Oklahoma, and the arrival of new teams from the Pac-12, the Big 12 has become a true free-for-all. The conference's new single-standings, non-divisional format ensures that the top two teams in the league will face off for the championship, making every conference game critical. The wide-open nature of the league is highlighted by the fact that the Big 12 has featured a new participant in its championship game in seven of the past eight seasons.

Key Factors Contributing to the Depth

Quarterback Play: Many teams return experienced and talented quarterbacks, a key ingredient for success in a competitive conference. Names like Avery Johnson (Kansas State), Rocco Becht (Iowa State), and Sam Leavitt (Arizona State) give their teams a chance to win every week.

Transfer Portal Impact: Teams like Texas Tech have used the transfer portal and NIL to assemble what some are calling the most expensive roster in the country. This has allowed programs to rapidly improve their talent and close the gap on top contenders.

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STUNNED: Iowa State DOMINATES Kansas State In Ireland, Avery Johnson NOT the Answer? Rocco Becht Is? Aug 23, 2025

Show notes

In a rain-soaked and hard-fought battle in Dublin, Ireland, No. 22 Iowa State defeated No. 17 Kansas State with a final score of 24-21 to kick off the 2025 college football season. The game was a slugfest, characterized by sloppy play, key turnovers, and a dramatic finish. Key Takeaways Rocco Becht's Clutch Performance: While his overall stats (14-for-28, 183 yards) weren't spectacular, Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht was at his best when it mattered most. He threw two touchdown passes and ran for another, including a crucial 7-yard rushing score that put the Cyclones up 24-14 in the fourth quarter. His most important play, however, came on a 4th-and-3 late in the game, where he found running back Carson Hansen for a 15-yard gain to seal the victory. Kansas State's Offensive Struggles: The Wildcats' offense had a tough day, particularly in the first half. Quarterback Avery Johnson, while showcasing his dual-threat ability, struggled with consistency and was frequently forced to move out of the pocket due to pressure from the Iowa State defensive front. The Wildcats were plagued by turnovers on downs, and a reliance on big, explosive plays rather than sustained drives. Defensive Battle: Both defenses played well for much of the game, especially early on. The wet conditions in Dublin led to several fumbles and dropped passes for both teams. Kansas State's defense, in particular, looked strong in the first half, forcing two turnovers, but they were unable to get the critical stops needed in the fourth quarter. Coaching Decisions: The game came down to key coaching decisions in the final minutes. Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell's gutsy call to go for it on 4th down instead of kicking a field goal was rewarded with the game-sealing first down. Conversely, Kansas State's decision to go for it on 4th-and-1 in the fourth quarter from their own 30-yard line, which resulted in a turnover on downs, proved to be a critical turning point. The victory marks the third consecutive win for the Cyclones in the "Farmageddon" rivalry and gives them a crucial early-season conference win with potential implications for the Big 12 Championship race. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectoll Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12

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FOOTBALL IS HERE: BOLD Kansas State, Iowa State Preview, Farmaggedon In Ireland Will Be CHAOS! Aug 22, 2025

Show notes

The annual "Farmageddon" rivalry between the Kansas State Wildcats and the Iowa State Cyclones is set to kick off the 2025 college football season in a historic neutral-site matchup in Dublin, Ireland. This Week 0 game is a crucial early test for both teams, who are looking to establish themselves as Big 12 Championship contenders.

The game features a compelling quarterback duel between two returning starters. For Kansas State, the focus is on sophomore Avery Johnson, who takes the reins as the full-time starter after a promising 2024 season. Johnson is a dynamic threat with his arm and legs, and his continued development will be key to the Wildcats' offensive success. He will be joined by running back Dylan Edwards to form a potent backfield. The Wildcats' offense was ranked 31st in the FBS last season in total yards per game.

On the other side, Iowa State brings back veteran quarterback Rocco Becht, who threw for over 3,500 yards and 25 touchdowns last year. While the Cyclones lost two key thousand-yard receivers, they'll lean on Becht's experience and the running game led by Carson Hansen. Iowa State's offense ranked 39th in the FBS in total offense last season.

This game will be decided in the trenches and on the perimeter. Iowa State's defense, particularly its secondary, is a strong unit. They will look to challenge Johnson and the Kansas State passing game, which ranked 85th in the FBS last season. Conversely, Kansas State's defense, anchored by linebacker Austin Romaine, is strong against the run, which will be a crucial matchup against Iowa State's ground game.

Both head coaches, Chris Klieman for Kansas State and Matt Campbell for Iowa State, have a history of developing tough, disciplined teams. The matchup in Dublin adds an extra layer of unpredictability, as both teams will have to deal with travel and a new environment.

Predictions from computer models lean slightly in favor of Kansas State, but a close, low-scoring game is widely expected. With both teams' top quarterbacks returning, the game promises to be an exciting showcase of what promises to be a highly competitive Big 12 season.

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BOMBSHELL: SEC CAVES to Big 12's Pressure, Changes to NINE Game Football Schedule, Greg Sankey DONE! Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has approved a move to a nine-game conference schedule starting in the 2026 football season. This decision, which was recommended by the league's athletic directors and approved by the presidents and chancellors, ends a long-standing debate and aligns the SEC with the Big Ten and Big 12.

Key Elements of the New Format

No Divisions: The SEC will continue with a single-standings, non-divisional structure. The top two teams in the standings will play in the SEC Championship Game.

Three Permanent Opponents: Each school will play three annual opponents to preserve traditional rivalries. The remaining six games on each team's schedule will rotate among the other conference schools.

Increased Rotational Play: This new format ensures that every SEC team will face every other conference program at least once every two years, and every opponent home and away within a four-year period.

Non-Conference Requirement: In addition to the nine conference games, each SEC team will be required to schedule at least one high-quality non-conference opponent from the ACC, Big Ten, or Big 12 conferences, or Notre Dame.

Reasons for the Change

The shift to a nine-game schedule is a response to several factors, including:

College Football Playoff (CFP) Emphasis on Strength of Schedule: The CFP selection committee has recently stated it will place a greater emphasis on strength of schedule when determining which teams make the 12-team field. The new format ensures that SEC teams have a more rigorous schedule, which could give them an edge in playoff selection.

Competitive Balance: A nine-game schedule ensures more competitive matchups throughout the season. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey stated that this format "delivers the most competitive football schedule in the nation."

Protecting Rivalries: By designating three permanent opponents, the league is aiming to protect historic rivalries that might have been lost in a fully rotating schedule.

Increased Revenue: The new format will lead to more high-profile games, which can generate additional revenue for the conference and its member schools.

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BIG 12 SQUAD - What Analysts Say About Big Twelve in Season Preview Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

Big 12 football frenzy: Can Texas Tech live up to the 11-1 hype? Hosts clash over conference predictions and playoff hopes.

Sparks fly as team experts debate Arizona State's title defense, West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez era, and Utah's surprise contender status. Hot seats heat up for coaches like Mike Gundy and Scott Satterfield, while Kyle Whittingham's future at Utah hangs in the balance. Guest Mountaineer Paul weighs in on WVU's potential resurgence. From Joey McGuire's expectations in Lubbock to Devin Dampier's impact in Salt Lake City, no stone is left unturned.

Tune in for bold claims, heated rivalries, and insider perspectives on the Big 12's most intriguing storylines this season.

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Locked On Big 12 is BYU Loving, West Virginia Hugging, Texas Tech Propaganda in STUPID Preseason Rankings Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

The accuracy of any sports predictions, especially in a conference as unpredictable as the Big 12, is a subject of constant debate. "Locked On Big 12," hosted by Drake C. Toll, is not exempt from this.

Here’s a breakdown of how the podcast's predictions are generally viewed:

In-Depth Analysis: The podcast is praised for its comprehensive coverage. Drake Toll and his guests analyze a wide range of factors, including coaching changes, returning starters, and the impact of the transfer portal and NIL. This thorough approach means that even if a prediction is wrong, the reasoning behind it is often well-argued and based on a deep understanding of the league.

Willingness to Make Bold Predictions: The podcast is known for taking bold stances and making predictions that challenge the conventional wisdom of other media outlets. For example, he has made bold claims about teams like BYU and West Virginia, predicting they will exceed expectations. This style makes for compelling listening, but also means the predictions have a higher risk of being inaccurate.

The Unpredictability of the Big 12: The Big 12 is known for its parity and chaos. Teams picked in the middle of the pack have often made it to the conference championship game. The Big 12 itself has even decided to discontinue its official preseason media poll due to the difficulty of accurate predictions. This inherent unpredictability makes it challenging for any analyst, including those on "Locked On Big 12," to be consistently right.

In summary, "Locked On Big 12" is highly regarded for its deep analysis and passionate takes, but like all college football predictions, its accuracy is subject to the unpredictable nature of the sport and the Big 12 conference itself.

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FOOTBALL IS BACK: SEC is JEALOUS of Kansas State, Iowa State Kicking Off 2025 in Ireland THIS WEEK! Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

Get ready for a unique and high-stakes start to the college football season, as the Kansas State Wildcats and Iowa State Cyclones will face off in a highly anticipated Big 12 matchup to kick off their 2025 campaigns.

Dubbed the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, this "Week 0" contest will take place on foreign soil at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, on Saturday, August 23, 2025. For fans in the Central time zone, the game will have an early start, with kickoff scheduled for 11 a.m. CT. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

This isn't just a novelty trip; it's a critical conference game between two programs expected to be contenders for the Big 12 title. Both teams enter the season with high expectations and are featured in preseason Top 25 rankings, with Kansas State typically ranked slightly higher around No. 17 and Iowa State near No. 22.

What to Watch For

Kansas State Wildcats: The Wildcats' success will largely hinge on the development of junior quarterback Avery Johnson. After a strong 2024 season where he set a school record with 25 touchdown passes, all eyes will be on his continued growth as a dual-threat playmaker. The offense also returns key weapons, including running back Dylan Edwards and a talented group of tight ends. The defense is expected to be solid, returning its top two tacklers from a year ago, linebacker Austin Romaine and safety VJ Payne.

Iowa State Cyclones: The Cyclones will be led by their own standout junior quarterback, Rocco Becht, who threw for over 3,500 yards and 25 touchdowns last season. He'll be joined by junior running back Carson Hansen, who found the end zone 15 times in 2024. Coming off a season where they shared the regular-season Big 12 championship, Iowa State is looking to prove they are a consistent force in the conference.

The Stakes

Starting the season with a conference game, let alone one against a ranked rival, raises the stakes immensely. The winner will gain a significant early advantage in the Big 12 standings, while the loser will face an immediate uphill battle. Early betting lines have established Kansas State as a narrow 3-point favorite, signaling that a close, hard-fought game is expected on the international stage.

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"Farmageddon": A Storied Rivalry Lost

Baylor-BYU: A Budding Rivalry Stunted

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The Contender Cluster

A New Era of Parity

Key Factors Contributing to the Depth

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Key Elements of the New Format

Reasons for the Change

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Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast

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"Farmageddon": A Storied Rivalry Lost

Baylor-BYU: A Budding Rivalry Stunted

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The Contender Cluster

A New Era of Parity

Key Factors Contributing to the Depth

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Key Elements of the New Format

Reasons for the Change

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Listener Survey
We’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go tohttps://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.

Listener Survey
We’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go tohttps://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.

Listener Survey
We’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go tohttps://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.

Listener Survey
We’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go tohttps://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards.