Discover how many teams are currently competing in the Big 12 Conference.
Key takeaways:
- Current count: 10 teams in the Big 12 Conference
- Past reorganization resulted in a decreased number of teams
- Four future members: BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF
- Season-ending championship game determines the conference champion
- University of Oklahoma has the most championships in conference history
Current Full Members
The Big 12 Conference is comprised of ten universities that compete across various NCAA Division I athletic competitions.
The roster includes Baylor University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Texas at Austin, and West Virginia University. Contrary to what the name may suggest, the count of teams does not currently reflect the “12” in “Big 12.” This anomaly dates back to 2012 when the conference reorganized, resulting in a decreased number of institutions.
Each member school brings its unique sports culture yet shares a common goal of fostering competitive and fair play, securing the Big 12’s reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.
Future Members
The Big 12 is set to expand, with four universities joining the ranks: BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF. These additions, slated for July 2023, are a strategic response to the departure of Texas and Oklahoma to the Southeastern Conference (SEC). This expansion not only replenishes the conference’s numbers but also broadens its geographical footprint and market reach, enhancing television revenue and competitiveness across sports. The inclusion of these teams brings fresh rivalries and dynamics to the conference, promising a revitalized competitive landscape.
Conference Champions
Determining the champions of the Big 12 Conference occurs through a season-ending championship game. This game pits the two teams with the best conference records against each other, a practice reinstated in 2017 after being discontinued in 2010. The outcome of this match not only decides the conference champion but also influences selections for major bowl games and the College Football Playoff.
Notably, the title has frequently seen dominant teams, with the University of Oklahoma holding the most championships in the conference’s history. Yet, the competitive nature of the conference ensures that any team has a potential shot at the title each season, contingent on their performance in regular conference play.
The champion’s performance often impacts the perception and ranking of the Big 12 in the broader scope of NCAA football, illustrating the pivotal role this game plays beyond mere conference standings.
