Crucial Week 14 Big 12 Football Showdowns Shape League Race
The final week of the college football regular season brings crucial matchups in the Big 12, as four teams vie for championship game spots. The focus is on Texas Tech, BYU, Utah, and Arizona State, each with unique scenarios that will determine their postseason fates.
Key Big 12 Matchups in Week 14
This weekend features pivotal games that will influence the league standings significantly. Here’s a breakdown of essential contests in the Big 12 championship race.
No. 13 Utah at Kansas
Kickoff is scheduled for Friday at 10 a.m. MST on ESPN. The Utes, currently boasting a record of 9-2 and 6-2 in the Big 12, are riding a four-game winning streak. To keep their championship hopes alive, Utah must defeat Kansas and anticipate favorable outcomes from other games.
- Utah needs a victory over Kansas as heavy favorites.
- They also require wins from BYU and Arizona State.
- Additionally, a loss by Texas Tech is essential.
No. 25 Arizona at No. 20 Arizona State
This matchup starts Friday at 7 p.m. MST on Fox. Arizona State is clinging to its title defense, sporting an 8-3 record and 6-2 in conference play. The Sun Devils face a resilient Arizona team that is currently 8-3 and on a four-game winning streak.
- Arizona State must win against Arizona and hope for other outcomes:
- A win + Texas Tech loss and Utah loss + BYU win
- A win + BYU loss + Utah loss
- A win + Texas Tech loss + BYU loss + Utah win
A loss for Arizona State would confirm championship berths for Texas Tech and BYU.
No. 5 Texas Tech at West Virginia
The Red Raiders (10-1, 7-1 Big 12) look to secure their championship game spot with a victory Saturday at 10 a.m. MST on ESPN. They enter as heavy favorites, with a 91.5% chance to win according to ESPN analytics.
- If Texas Tech wins, they are guaranteed a spot in the championship game.
- A loss could open the door for Utah or Arizona State to advance.
UCF at No. 11 BYU
BYU faces UCF on Saturday at 11 a.m. MST on ESPN2. With a record of 10-1 and 7-1 in the Big 12, BYU controls its destiny; a win ensures a place in the championship game.
- BYU clinches a spot if Arizona State loses.
- A potential loss could still allow them to advance, but would require specific outcomes in other games.
Last season, BYU missed the championship game due to tiebreakers, highlighting the importance of winning this time around. They aim for the Big 12 title and an automatic College Football Playoff berth.
As the regular season concludes, the outcomes of these games will define the race for the Big 12 championship, setting the stage for an exciting postseason.
