Big 12 Power Rankings: TCU Survives and advances, Oklahoma falls

5. Kansas State Wildcats (6-3, 4-2)

The Wildcats almost completed a miraculous comeback in the Little Apple, falling short 34-27. Texas looked like they were going to run away with the game after taking a 31-10 lead at the half. Kansas State fought back and played solid defense in the second half. Their game this weekend against Baylor is a must-win if the Wildcats want to have a chance to play for the conference title.

4. Kansas Jayhawks (6-3, 3-3)

You know that the Jayhawks are turning things around as a program after its 37-16 win against Oklahoma State. The Cowboys had many injuries coming into the game, but Kansas showed its mettle because the win stopped a three-game losing streak. The Jayhawks have a roadmap to the Big 12 title game with Texas and Kansas State left on its schedule.

3. Baylor Bears (6-3, 4-2)

Head coach Dave Aranda has to like his team’s progress this season. The Bears are young and inexperienced at receiver and running back, and it took time to develop some cohesion with them and quarterback Blake Shapen. The defense is also young in critical places, which is why they’ve been susceptible to the big play. Baylor has everything in front of them, with Kansas State, Texas, and TCU left on its schedule.

2. Texas Longhorns (6-3, 4-2)

The Longhorns are so polarizing it is difficult to evaluate them objectively. Texas has played well despite some critical injuries, including quarterback Quinn Ewers missing time. Head coach Steve Sarkisian is still developing his culture as well. The Longhorns attempted to give away their 34-27 win against Kansas State by scoring just three points in the second half. They can secure their place in the Big 12 title game with wins against Baylor and TCU.

1. TCU Horned Frogs (9-0, 6-0)

Can TCU finish an undefeated regular season on its way to Dallas and a possible playoff berth? The odds — and conference history — say no. However, no team in the Big 12 is as comfortable with playing from behind as the Horned Frogs. When does that catch up with them? Eventually, there will be a lead that Max Duggan, Kendre Miller, and Quentin Johnston can’t dig out of.