Upsets make college football great. The Big 12 should have a handful of upset opportunities before league play even starts.
Texas has the biggest upset opportunity as it travels to Tuscaloosa to face Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide. The 2022 matchup of the two teams became an instant classic as Alabama won on a late field goal, 20-19.
The TCU Horned Frogs, West Virginia Mountaineers and Texas Tech Red Raiders have big games scheduled in their nonconference slate. The Horned Frogs open against Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes in his first game as head coach in Boulder, CO. West Virginia travels to Penn State before playing host to Pitt. Texas Tech has its hands full with the Oregon Ducks at home.
With the above matchups in mind, let’s look at five bold upset predictions for the 2023 season.
1
Texas over Alabama
Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images
Texas has a score to settle with Alabama. It has the players to get it done. Judging by Alabama quarterback buzz this spring, Jalen Milroe looks to be the likely starter in Tuscaloosa. Despite reported dramatic improvement by the third-year player, the Longhorns probably have a decided advantage at the most important position with Quinn Ewers. Add in Texas’ high percentage of returning offensive experience (10 of 11 starters) and production (85% returning production) and what Alabama loses, and you have the makings of a surprise win for the ‘Horns.
2
Kansas over Oklahoma
Ben Queen-USA TODAY Sports
Oklahoma was bound and determined not to lose to Kansas following blowout losses to Texas and TCU last season. They don’t escape this year. Like Texas, Kansas returns 10 of 11 offensive starters including starting quarterback Jalon Daniels. Look for Daniels to put on a show for the home crowd in Lawrence.
3
BYU over TCU
Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY…
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