DISASTROUS AP Poll: BYU, Iowa State Disrespected, Big 12 Ignored for Average SEC, Big 10 Football

Despite its competitive depth and exciting brand of football, the Big 12 doesn’t get the same respect as the Big Ten or SEC. While the SEC is lauded for its powerhouse programs like Alabama and Georgia, and the Big Ten boasts legacy brands like Ohio State and Michigan, the Big 12 often finds itself overlooked on the national stage.

One key reason is the departure of Texas and Oklahoma, historically the biggest brands in the conference. Their move to the SEC left a perception gap, with many viewing the Big 12 as weakened despite its strong additions of Utah, Arizona, Arizona State, and Colorado. These schools bring tremendous talent and fan bases, but they lack the same historical prestige as those leaving, which affects the way the Big 12 is perceived compared to its peers.

Another factor is media attention. The SEC and Big Ten often dominate the prime TV slots, securing larger television contracts that contribute to their national prominence. The Big 12, meanwhile, gets fewer marquee matchups and often feels like an afterthought in the conversation about the top conferences in college football.

Even though the Big 12 boasts fierce competition, with teams like Kansas State, Baylor, and TCU having strong seasons and even making runs in the College Football Playoff race, they often don’t receive the same media coverage or accolades as their counterparts in the SEC or Big Ten.

The Big 12 has plenty of talent and exciting football, but earning the national respect of the larger, wealthier conferences is an ongoing challenge.

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