Despite Rough Year, Utah Given Second-Best Odds to Win Big 12

FanDuel Sportsbook lists the Utah Utes at +600 to win the Big 12 in 2025, tied with Arizona State and trailing only Kansas State, which sits at +550.

That places the Utes as co-second favorites in early betting markets, which is surprising considering their rough debut season in the league.

Utah finished 5–7 (2–7 in Big 12 play) in their inaugural season after leaving the Pac-12, and their offense struggled mightily, posting the worst SP+ offensive rating for the program since the 1940s.

Losses were often narrow, as four defeats came by three points or fewer, yet the team failed to generate any momentum.

Despite that, FanDuel’s early odds reflect high preseason expectations. The Utes invested heavily in their offseason, overhauling the offense with coordinator Jason Beck and bringing in transfer QB Devon Dampier from New Mexico, who had a breakout season with over 1,000 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns.

Still, bettors and oddsmakers seem to be banking on a bounce-back grounded more in reputation and program prestige rather than proven success in the Big 12. That setup starkly contrasts with Arizona State, which earned its +600 odds by winning the Big 12 in 2024, boasting returning talent and playoff experience.

On the positive side, head coach Kyle Whittingham remains a steady figure; last season marked only his third losing campaign in 21 years. That consistency likely underpins the faith of oddsmakers, but Whittingham is definitely on the latter part of his career, which leads to some concern.

In short, while the Utes are right behind Kansas State in FanDuel’s early Big 12 Championship futures, their +600 placement feels more like good faith than earned value at this point. The pressure now lies on Utah to convert preseason hype into football growth, quickly.