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Five Big 12 Teams Land in Preseason Coaches Poll
Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The 2025 preseason Coaches Poll is out, and five Big 12 programs have earned a spot in the rankings.

Arizona State leads the way at No. 11, followed by Kansas State at No. 20, Iowa State at No. 22, BYU at No. 23, and Texas Tech at No. 24.

Arizona State’s position just outside the top ten highlights the national respect Kenny Dillingham’s group has built. The Sun Devils closed 2024 on a surge and return quarterback Sam Leavitt, along with a defense that proved opportunistic down the stretch.

Kansas State enters at No. 20 after a 9–4 season capped by a Rate Bowl victory. Avery Johnson returns at quarterback with a veteran offensive front, giving Chris Klieman a strong foundation as the Wildcats aim to defend their spot near the top of the conference.

Iowa State lands at No. 22 with one of the Big 12’s most consistent programs under Matt Campbell. The Cyclones return key defensive starters and a quarterback group capable of producing in high-pressure games.

BYU makes its preseason debut at No. 23 in its third year in the conference. Kalani Sitake’s squad brings back proven playmakers on both sides of the ball and has a schedule that will give them early chances to prove their ranking.

Texas Tech rounds out the Big 12’s representation at No. 24. Joey McGuire’s team has built momentum through recruiting and returns multiple offensive weapons that could make the Red Raiders one of the league’s most dangerous midseason teams.

With five ranked teams to open the year, the Big 12 enters 2025 positioned for another season of depth and competitive balance. The early rankings set the stage for a conference race that could see multiple programs in the playoff conversation well into November.

This article first appeared on Heartland College Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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