Bears: Three Big 12 Teams That Could Earn Preseason Top 25 Honors Before Start of 2025 Season
As the 2025 college football season looms on the horizon, all eyes are beginning to shift toward the teams that will dominate the landscape and potentially earn a spot in the prestigious preseason Top 25 rankings. While the usual powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State will always garner attention, the Big 12 is quietly positioning itself to make a statement with several programs that could break into the rankings before the season kicks off. Among the teams to watch, here are three Big 12 programs that could earn a spot in the Top 25 based on their recruiting, returning talent, and overall momentum.
1. Baylor Bears: Ready to Reassert Their Dominance
After a roller-coaster few years, the Baylor Bears are on track to regain the national recognition they earned during their 2021 Big 12 Championship run. Under head coach Dave Aranda, Baylor has built a strong foundation that could propel them back into the national spotlight.
Baylor’s defense, one of the best in the Big 12, will be a major strength heading into 2025. With Aranda’s expertise on that side of the ball, the Bears are expected to have one of the toughest defenses in the conference. Additionally, the team’s offense is expected to show substantial improvement with the development of their young quarterback and key playmakers returning.
The Bears’ solid recruiting efforts have added depth and talent across the roster, giving Baylor a balanced team that could contend for both the Big 12 title and a spot in the College Football Playoff race. If Baylor can maintain consistency on both sides of the ball, the Bears will be a strong contender for a preseason Top 25 ranking, setting them up for a memorable season.
2. Kansas State Wildcats: An Emerging Power in the Big 12
Kansas State has long been a team that has surprised many in the Big 12, and after a strong 2024 campaign, they could be on the verge of breaking into the Top 25. The Wildcats finished last season with an impressive record, highlighted by big wins over top-tier teams, and they enter 2025 with a loaded roster that could lead to more success.
K-State’s offense, led by one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the conference, should continue to shine. The Wildcats’ ability to control the tempo of a game with a potent running game combined with an efficient passing attack makes them dangerous. On defense, Kansas State has been building one of the most formidable units in the Big 12, with an experienced defensive line and a secondary that can lock down the best receivers.
With the return of several key players and the potential for continued improvement under head coach Chris Klieman, Kansas State is poised to enter 2025 as a Top 25 contender. The Wildcats’ ability to win close games and perform in big moments makes them a dangerous team in a wide-open Big 12, and they could earn national recognition as the season progresses.
3. TCU Horned Frogs: Riding High After Playoff Appearance
Coming off an unforgettable 2024 College Football Playoff appearance, the TCU Horned Frogs are expected to remain in the national spotlight heading into 2025. Coach Sonny Dykes has transformed TCU into one of the most exciting teams in college football, and after making a run to the playoff, the Horned Frogs’ momentum is sky-high.
TCU’s offense, which has been explosive in recent seasons, will remain a major strength with the return of key playmakers at quarterback and wide receiver. Their ability to score quickly and put pressure on opposing defenses will continue to make them a matchup nightmare. On defense, the Horned Frogs are expected to return several key players, including veterans who can lock down opposing offenses.
Given their 2024 success and the influx of talent on both sides of the ball, TCU is in prime position to be ranked in the preseason Top 25. With Dykes at the helm and a roster brimming with talent, TCU will be a major force in the Big 12 and will certainly be one of the most watched teams heading into 2025.
Conclusion
The Big 12 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive conferences in college football in 2025. With teams like Baylor, Kansas State, and TCU all looking poised to earn a spot in the Top 25, the upcoming season could provide thrilling matchups and unexpected rises to national prominence. These three teams have the talent, momentum, and coaching to make a splash, and as the preseason rankings begin to take shape, expect them to be in the mix for national recognition. For fans of Big 12 football, 2025 promises to be a season to remember.
