The team that won a controversial Big 12 title last year returns with almost every key contributor, outside of their offensive line. They have returning Heisman-winning quarterback Sam Bradford, three running backs who combined for just under 2,700 yards last season, and All-American tight end Jermaine Gresham, the top receiving threat in the Big 12. Their defense has to be considered among the ten best in the country with its experience, talent and ability to force turnovers. Plus, Bob Stoops has lost back-to-back Texas games only once, and they get Oklahoma State on the road. It's tough to bet against the Sooners.
2. Texas 7-1, 11-1
Texas doesn't return with nearly as much offensive talent as Oklahoma and has lost one more starter on defense. Still, senior quarterback Colt McCoy returns and gives the Longhorns a chance to compete with anyone, anytime. Texas, however, lacks running backs and receivers to complement McCoy the way Bradford has at OU. Junior Sergio Kindle is the most talented non-defensive tackle in the Big-12, but Texas doesn't have the secondary to stop Oklahoma. Oklahoma State is also a road game this year, making Texas a long shot for the South title.
3. Oklahoma State 6-2, 10-2
The most talented Cowboys team since the days of Barry Sanders. Still, the inclusion of Oklahoma and Texas in their schedule will limit the Cowboys' potential. That's a shame, because senior quarterback Zac Robinson has the electrifying Kendall Hunter and the best receiver in the country (Dez Bryant) to throw to. Former Kansas defensive coordinator Bill Young takes over a work-in-progress defense (ranked 93rd nationally last year). The defense will not be able to improve quickly enough for the Cowboys to win the South.
4. Nebraska 6-2, 9-3
The schedule makes all the difference for the Cornhuskers this season. While there is an extreme talent gap between them and the top three in the Big 12, as long as Nebraska wins the games it should, they will win the North. The key swing games are the road trips to Baylor and Colorado. Going 2-0 in those games, and avoiding a major upset, should send the Big Red to the Big 12 Title game. But there are serious concerns. Aside from star runner Roy Helu, Mike McNeill (32 receptions) is the main offensive contributor returning. Senior Ndamukong Suh is an outstanding NFL prospect, but will be triple-teamed unless Bo Pelini can find a way to turn Barry Turner or Pierre Allen into a force. The linebackers and receivers are young, quarterback Zac Lee is unproven, and there is an extreme lack of depth at quarterback and running back with the spring departures of Patrick Witt and Quentin Castille. Still, the schedule should leave Husker fans optimistic.
5. Kansas 5-3, 9-3
As good as Nebraska's schedule is, the opposite is true for Kansas. In this scenario, Kansas goes 5-0 against the Big 12 North, but games against Oklahoma, Texas and a road tilt against Texas Tech means the Jayhawks will be watching the game. Kansas's secondary will not be able to stop any of the South offenses they face. Senior Todd Reesing is the best Jayhawk since Gale Sayers, receiver Desmon Briscoe is electrifying and they have a solid offensive line and running game. It will be the defense that will hold the Jayhawks back. They will be better than Nebraska, will beat Nebraska, but will be looking up at the standings.
6. Baylor 4-4, 7-5
Art Briles has made the Bears unrecognizable. Sophomore Robert Griffin is a top playmaker, and the team is solid on both sides of the football. Baylor looks good to reach its first bowl in 15 years.
7. Colorado 4-4, 7-5
The wildcard of the Big 12. By winning all their home games, the Buffaloes would be virtually assured the Big 12 North, as they host Nebraska and Kansas. CU has the worst history of injury in the Big 12, but with better quarterback play and an improved turnover margin, Colorado could turn heads.
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