Big 12 Football Power Rankings After Week 8
By Erika Brown
13. Houston (3-4, 1-3 conference)
Just like Cincinnati, Houston also had a chance for the upset on Saturday against Texas. Cincinnati’s offense looked better this week than previously, with quarterback Donovon Smith throwing for almost 300 yards and three touchdowns. It came down to a stop on 4th down by the Texas defense. Houston’s rushing game is non-existent at this point. They face Kansas State this week in a tough away game matchup.
12. UCF (3-4, 0-4 conference)
Another newcomer who is struggling in Big 12 conference play. UCF at least kept the game close against Oklahoma this week but failed to make the 2-point conversion to tie the game in the 4th quarter. UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee threw for two touchdowns in this game, and the offense took care of the ball, not having a turnover in the game. This week they face West Virginia at home.
11. Texas Tech (3-5, 2-3 conference)
Texas Tech continues their disappointing season in the Big 12. Their two wins on the season come against Houston and Baylor, some of the bottom-of-the-barrel teams in the conference. The offense struggled the week, with quarterback Jake Strong throwing three interceptions and two receivers fumbling the ball. BYU’s defense stepped up and kept Tech to just 14 points. They thankfully get a bye this week before facing TCU.
10. Baylor (3-4, 2-2 conference)
Baylor snuck out a win this week against Cincinnati, beating the Bearcats 32-29. Baylor was in control for the majority of the game. While Baylor’s passing game was on point, with quarterback Shapen throwing for 316 yards and a touchdown, the running game sputtered instantly, only securing 80 yards on the ground. Baylor takes on Iowa State at home on Saturday.