By Dorrington Myers
Welcome back. In my last article, I explored the Big Ten offensive coordinators and quarterbacks. I now continue my series with the the Big 12 Conference. The Big 12 is one of those conferences with multiple teams that have the capability of winning out. This will be a fun conference to watch in 2025. Quarterback-wise, across the board, this might be the best QB talent conference wide in the country. I say this because a lot of QBs are returning with experience and a deeper knowledge of how to optimize their offense. This isn’t to say that the other conferences aren’t good, because they are. This is me giving props where it’s due.
There’s no easy way to evaluate quarterback talent in the Big 12. When you step back and look at all 16 teams, this conference is loaded with talented QBs. Narrowing it down took some serious work. I reviewed the tape, dug into the stats from last season, looked at overall team impact and even reviewed some interviews with coaches to get their take on their quarterbacks. Here’s what I got.
1. Marcus Arroyo/Sam Leavitt, Arizona State
This team will go as far as their quarterback takes them. Leavitt doesn’t get nearly enough credit for the spark he brought to the program. After a rough 3-9 finish in 2023, something clicked. Arizona State caught fire, finishing 11-3 overall and 7-2 in conference play. They capped it off with a dominant 45-19 win over Iowa State to claim the Big 12 title, then punched their ticket to the College Football Playoff. In the quarterfinals, they pushed Texas to the brink, going two overtimes deep before falling 39-31. That kind of toughness isn’t easy to find.
The biggest headline this year? Jordyn Tyson is back. When he and Leavitt are on the same page, they’re a nightmare for defenses. If this offense can stay balanced with a steady run game and a gritty offensive line willing to move heaven and earth, don’t be surprised if they make another deep run.
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2. Mack Leftwich/Behren Morton, Texas Tech
A lot of people are high on the Red Raiders this season, and I can see why. In my opinion, Morton is the most talented pure passer in the Big 12. I love his leadership, he’s vocal, engaged and commands the locker room.
More Sports News
The biggest news out of Lubbock this offseason is the transfer portal additions. Texas Tech brought in 17 new transfers, including major upgrades in the trenches. That’s the main reason I have them at No. 2. There’s a lot of talent, but also a lot of unknowns. We don’t fully know how all the new pieces will gel.
That said, the Red Raider offense already led the Big 12 in nearly every category last season: 462.8 yards per game, 3,857 passing yards, 2,159 rushing yards and 37.6 points per game, all while dealing with inconsistencies on the offensive line. With a reinforced front and more depth at the skill positions, this offense could be even scarier in 2025.
Some reports even say they spent nearly $10 million in the portal to build this squad. Whether that number is accurate or not, one thing is clear: college football is starting to feel a lot like the pros.
© Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images
3. Matt Wells/Avery Johnson, Kansas State
Johnson might just be one of the most electric players returning in the conference. Last season, he made the kind of mistakes you’d expect from a young freshman. But heading into year two, I believe he understands the mission now.
As a true dual-threat quarterback, Johnson adds a dimension to the offense that most teams wish they had. With improved passing skills, a deeper understanding of the system and valuable game experience, he’s ready for his breakout season. There’s no secret, his legs will be a major part of the offense with designed QB runs, but he’s also going to push the ball through the air.
Wells mentioned a couple of key things in a recent interview that really stood out to me. One quote was, “You throw the ball to score, and run the ball to win.” The other: “You have to run the ball in November, down the stretch, to win a championship game. You have to stop the ball on defense, and run the ball on offense.”
That couldn’t be more true, especially coming from a coach who’s been around and knows what it takes. Remember, Wells coached Jordan Love at Utah State, who’s now the star QB for the Green Bay Packers.
4. Jake Spavital/Sawyer Robertson, Baylor
Don’t count Baylor out of Big 12 championship contention as they have one of the best QBs in this conference in Robertson. They bring back other key players who are already familiar with the scheme. Running back Bryson Washington returns after eclipsing 1,000 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns on the ground. Dawson Pendergrass is also back, adding six more rushing touchdowns to the backfield.
The Bears also return arguably the most important position in football, left tackle Sidney Fugar, who gives them serious access to that side in the run game. Wide receiver Josh Cameron returns after a productive season, hauling in 10 touchdown receptions. Joining him is Ashtyn Hawkins, who added five more scores through the air.
Baylor’s offensive line returns more talent, too, with guys like left guard Ryan Iengyel, center Coleton Price and right guard Omar Aigbedion. That kind of continuity gives them a real edge.
I have them at No. 4 because I need to see the Bears do it again. The big question heading into 2025 is: Are the Baylor Bears legit? We’ll find out.
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5. Taylor Mouser/Rocco Becht, Iowa State
This offense is aiming to be more efficient in 2025 after losing two of its key playmakers to the NFL. To reload, the Cyclones dipped into the transfer portal, bringing in wide receivers Chase Sowell and Xavier Townsend, both expected to make an impact early and often. Becht is as steady as they come at quarterback, but his production dipped toward the end of last season. Still, he’s experienced, poised, and capable of leading this offense.
Where Iowa State truly separates itself is at tight end. Benjamin Brahmer returns to elevate the unit, and he’s a legit difference maker. His presence gives this offense a strong foundation to build around. I have them at No. 5 because of the uncertainty around the new pieces, but there’s still plenty of talent returning in Ames.
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Final Remarks
I thoroughly enjoy watching every conference across the national landscape, but there’s just something special about the Big 12. Year after year, this conference is stacked with talented quarterbacks, yet they often get overlooked compared to those in other leagues. I believe this is the year that changes. One key to shifting the narrative is winning nonconference games. That’s what puts the national spotlight on Big 12 teams early. The other factor? Producing consistently and winning out. That’s how you get your players in front of scouts and NFL teams. I’ll close with a couple of bold predictions: Arizona State will repeat as Big 12 champions, and Leavitt will be a Heisman Trophy finalist.
