This a huge season for several Big 12 programs, and the national spotlight will just add pressure.
The Big 12 likely has some of the best storylines in all of college football this season, but at the same time that just equates to higher standards and expectations.
While none of the players and coaches that I’ve mentioned below are at risk of being fired, there will be a sense of added pressure due to the heightened expectations associated with this season.
For one, Texas is hoping hoping that third times a charm in terms of finding a successful head coach after Mack Brown, otherwise their program may never be back. Iowa State’s recent success has them viewed as one of the best teams in the nation, but are they ready to take that next step? Oklahoma has dominated the Big 12, but that win in the playoff still eludes them. There will be fresh faces in new places, and the pressure to resurrect the program is on the weight of their shoulders.
I’ve identified five players and coaches in the Big 12 who are facing the most pressure to succeed this season. As a reminder, none of the coaches mentioned are at risk of losing their job, but that does not mean they are not under pressure.
Let’s take a look at the five individuals who are under the most pressure to excel this upcoming season.