Big 12 Today

In this episode of Big 12 Today, Ari and James review the 2025-2026 season with a special focus on Texas Tech. Despite facing significant challenges due to injuries, the Red Raiders demonstrated resilience and adaptability under head coach Grant McCasland. The hosts believe that, had it not been for the injuries, Texas Tech might have been a strong Final Four contender. They praise McCasland’s ability to maximize his roster’s potential amidst constant lineup changes. Looking ahead, questions remain about the future of key players like JT Toppin and Christian Anderson, as well as the impact of incoming transfer Cruz Davis from Hofstra. Join Ari and James for this in-depth analysis and insights into Texas Tech’s season and prospects. Geoff Haxton, the play-by-play voice of Texas Tech, joined Big 12 Today to reflect on the Red Raiders' season. Haxton highlighted the significant impact of JT Toppin’s injury, which severely affected the team’s performance. Regarding Toppin’s future, Haxton admitted he’s unsure about what lies ahead for the talented forward. Haxton also discussed the construction of next season’s Texas Tech team, noting the changing roster and expectations. He touched on the mood among Red Raider fans, mentioning a sense of panic in Lubbock as the community watches other Big 12 teams land major signees. Outside of Cruz Davis, fans are feeling a bit nervous about the team’s outlook moving forward. Haxton wrapped up the segment with his thoughts on Texas Tech baseball and the overall state of the Big 12. TUNE IN!

Chris Level of the Texas Tech Radio Network and Locked On Red Raiders joins Big 12 Today to break down a pivotal moment for Texas Tech Football as the program is expected to be well represented in the 2026 NFL Draft. Level previews what Red Raider fans can expect on draft night and puts the current class in perspective, highlighting the program’s recent surge in national relevance and its growing reputation for developing NFL-ready talent. He also explains why next year’s group could be even deeper in pro prospects, signaling sustained success in Lubbock. A major focus is star edge rusher David Bailey, projected as a potential top-3 pick and poised to become one of the highest selections in Texas Tech history. Level details Bailey’s impact on the field and what his rise means for the program’s national perception. He also discusses other notable Red Raiders, including standout linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, and where he could land in the draft conversation. With momentum building, Level explains how this draft cycle is another opportunity for Texas Tech to elevate its national profile and strengthen recruiting as the program continues producing NFL talent at a higher level.

Former Baylor legend and NFL WR Corey Coleman joins Big 12 Today for a deep dive into his football journey—from college stardom to the pros and beyond. The Baylor Bears football legend reflects on his All-American career in Waco and what led him to choose Baylor as a top-ranked recruit. With the NFL Draft here, Coleman shares firsthand insight into the draft process after being selected 15th overall in 2016, offering perspective for the next wave of prospects. He also opens up about his NFL career, lessons learned along the way, and his transition into coaching—including his recent role as an assistant wide receivers coach with TCU Horned Frogs football.

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a comprehensive review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode focuses on TCU. Ari and James analyze the Horned Frogs' season, highlighting the success of head coach Jamie Dixon. They note that TCU faced some transfer challenges, particularly with David Punch transferring to Texas. However, they remain optimistic about the team's prospects, citing the strong returning players and Dixon’s effective use of the transfer portal. Brian Estridge, play-by-play voice of TCU Athletics, joined Big 12 Today to discuss the Horned Frogs' season. Estridge highlighted head coach Jamie Dixon’s developmental approach, noting that Dixon’s teams typically improve as the season progresses—a long-term strategy that is increasingly rare in college sports but has proven effective. Estridge praised Dixon’s handling of the season, giving credit to David Punch for his strong performance. He also expressed confidence that TCU will continue to develop through the transfer portal. When asked about TCU’s rising NCAA Tournament seed, Estridge felt the team deserved a better seed. He also discussed the growth of JuCo players, emphasizing Dixon’s experience coaching JuCo programs and how it benefits the team. TUNE IN!

Detroit Lions defensive end Payton Turner joined Big 12 Today to share insights about his NFL journey, his college career at Houston, and advice for aspiring prospects. Drafted in 2021 by the New Orleans Saints, Turner discussed how his draft experience differed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the combine they attended was mainly medical and not the typical event. He advises prospects to savor the draft night, emphasizing its uniqueness and the significance of enjoying the moment, as becoming a professional athlete is a remarkable achievement. Turner also highlighted the importance of body care in the NFL, calling it the biggest adjustment in his professional career. Reflecting on his time at Houston, he expressed his enjoyment of his college years and his happiness that Houston is now part of the Big 12. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full-court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features West Virginia. During the review, Ari and James analyzed the Mountaineers' season, highlighting their impressive performance under first-year head coach Ross Hodge. They commend West Virginia for winning the conference crown this season and give special recognition to Honor Huff for his standout play. Overall, the guys note that West Virginia was not the most talented team, but they far exceeded expectations and played with great effort, especially considering they finished .500 in the Big 12. Keenan Cummings, Managing Editor for WVSports.com and West Virginia Writer for On3 Sports, joined Big 12 Today to reflect on the West Virginia Mountaineers' basketball season. Cummings praised the team for finishing .500 in Coach Ross Hodge’s first year in the Big 12. He highlighted Honor Huff’s outstanding performance throughout the season, which culminated in winning the conference crown. Cummings offered some constructive criticism, noting that West Virginia let a few games slip away, which likely cost them an NCAA Tournament bid. He mentioned that despite some disappointment early in the season, the fanbase remained excited and rallied behind the team’s success. Looking ahead to next season, Cummings believes West Virginia will be a much faster team and that the roster will look different as they build through the transfer portal. TUNE IN!

Former NFL and Texas Tech Football Cornerback Marcus Coleman joined Big 12 Today to discuss the defensive back position and what it takes to become an elite cornerback. He explained the transition from college to the NFL, highlighting the key differences between the levels. Marcus offered advice to cornerbacks about to get drafted, emphasizing the importance of studying film, working on deep ball coverage, mastering 90-degree breaks, and understanding how the game changes at the NFL level. He also discussed the intangible qualities necessary for success in the position, such as speed, vision, and athleticism. Coleman stressed the importance of knowing a player as a person—considering their love for the game, work ethic, and sacrifices. Reflecting on his own career, he shared that after intercepting the football, he often acted like a wide receiver, focusing on scoring. Coleman concluded by reflecting on his NFL Draft experience. TUNE IN!

Texas Tech Football Head Coach Joey McGuire joined Big 12 Today to discuss the spring football game held on Friday, April 17th. He analyzed the game, praising the defense's hot start while acknowledging the offense's comeback to secure the win. McGuire shared insights learned from Brendan Sorsby since his arrival in Lubbock, recalling their time facing each other at Cincinnati and noting Sorsby's impressive performance on the field despite Texas Tech's victory. He also addressed recent schedule changes impacting Texas Tech and emphasized his unwavering support for his players wherever they go. McGuire reiterated Texas Tech's role as a disruptor in college football, highlighting the program's commitment to doing things the right way financially and calling out the double standards often faced. He concluded by mentioning the players, including David Bailey and Jacob Rodriguez, who are expected to be drafted this weekend from Texas Tech. TUNE IN!

Former TCU offensive tackle and Super Bowl champion Marshall Newhouse joined Big 12 Today to discuss what NFL teams look for to improve their offensive line. Newhouse breaks down the qualities that teams seek in guards and tackles. As a TCU star and Super Bowl champion with the Green Bay Packers, he emphasizes the importance of attributes such as footwork, athleticism, arm length, and strength—especially when facing more athletic defensive linemen. Newhouse advises prospects to utilize game film to showcase their skills and highlights the significance of pass protection. He also notes that coaches want tackles who display tenacity and a dogged mentality on the field. The biggest piece of advice Newhouse offers current prospects is to find a sense of normalcy, as the draft process can be hectic. He believes maintaining a balanced approach will serve rookies well as they transition into the NFL. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features UCF. During the review, Ari and James analyzed the Knights' season, highlighting how the team exceeded expectations. Despite an unexpectedly strong start, the team eventually ran out of gas. The season was historic in many ways, marked by notable accomplishments such as ranking in the Top 25 and making a memorable run in the NCAA Tournament. Matt Murschel, UCF writer for the Orlando Sentinel and Tribune, joined Big 12 Today to discuss the UCF Knights' recent season. Murschel considers the season a success and sees it as a foundation for future growth of the program. He credits head coach Johnny Dawkins for elevating UCF to an NCAA Tournament appearance for the first time since 2018. Murschel also highlights the team's active moves through the transfer portal this season, praising Dawkins for maintaining competitiveness and staying engaged in recruiting. He emphasizes the importance of continuity, noting that several key players are expected to return. Additionally, Murschel discusses UCF's NIL budget, describing it as middle to lower tier, but notes that the program has started investing more money into basketball, even as football remains the dominant sport in the South. Overall, Matt holds a very positive view of UCF's progress in men's basketball. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features Cincinnati. During the review, Ari and James analyzed the Bearcats' season, highlighting the talent they possessed but were unable to capitalize on to get over the hump. Although Cincinnati finished the season strong, coach Miller was dismissed following the Big 12 Tournament after falling just short once again. The program has brought in Jerrod Calhoun with the goal of making the team more competitive in the Big 12 and elevating the Cincinnati brand. Chad Brendel, owner of BearcatJournal.com, joined Big 12 Today to discuss Cincinnati's basketball season. He began by reflecting on Cincinnati's collapse against UCF in the Big 12 Tournament, which he characterized as emblematic of the Wes Miller era—respected and well-liked by players, but ultimately unable to get the team over the hump. Brendel addressed Cincinnati's NIL budget and its implications for new head coach Jerrod Calhoun. He emphasized the high expectations from the fanbase, who see NCAA Tournament appearances as a must every year, with frustrations mounting when the program falls short. Brendel attributed these standards to the legacy set by Bob Huggins. He also discussed roster construction through the transfer portal, acknowledging challenges but expressing optimism under Calhoun's leadership. TUNE IN!

Former Texas Tech tight end Jace Amaro appeared on Big 12 Today, beginning with a discussion of his Catch22 Foundation, which he developed after his NFL career. He reflected on his time at Texas Tech, highlighting how NIL has transformed the landscape since his playing days. When asked about the upcoming draft, Amaro offered advice to prospects, emphasizing that the pace of the NFL is much slower and requires an adjustment. He shared his experiences with the Jets and the challenges he faced, stressing the importance of due diligence since players don't get to choose their draft position. Amaro also discussed his injury history at Texas Tech, explaining how injuries impacted the team but that he was able to recover and bounce back. He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the Catch22 Foundation, which aims to support children from impoverished backgrounds, especially during the holiday season. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features BYU. During the review, Ari and James analyze the BYU Cougars' season, noting the team's abundant talent but also how injuries impacted their performance. The discussion highlights freshman sensation AJ Dybantsa's dominant season and emphasizes how Richie Saunders' injury posed significant challenges. They explore areas for potential growth in the offseason, especially with Kevin Young's ability to recruit NBA-ready players. The conversation concludes with their insights on what lies ahead for the Cougars in the upcoming season. Mitch Harper, BYU Insider for KSL Sports, joined Big 12 Today to reflect on the recent season for the BYU Cougars. Mitch highlighted that the team did not meet expectations and called the season a missed opportunity, especially considering AJ Dybantsa’s presence on the roster. He pointed out that the team’s inability to advance past the first round in the NCAA Tournament was disappointing. Injuries, particularly Richie Saunders’ injury, played a major role—Mitch described Saunders’ injury as deflating and noted it increased the burden on Dybantsa. Despite Dybantsa exceeding expectations, Mitch acknowledged the leadership challenges he faced without the team’s heart and soul. Looking ahead, Mitch discussed Rob Wright’s potential transfer, stating it will likely come down to BYU or Kentucky, and emphasizing that another year with Wright would be highly beneficial. He stressed the need for defensive improvements next season, praising Kevin Young’s recruiting of scorers but emphasizing that defense should be a priority, even though the team played better overall defense down the stretch. Regarding Bruce Branch III’s commitment to BYU, Mitch described him as a different player from Dybantsa, expecting him to be a one-and-done at the college level. He highlighted Branch’s youth at 17, his potential as a strong on-ball defender, and his talent as a shooter, expressing excitement about his addition to the program. Mitch also noted that AJ Dybantsa has not officially declared for the NBA Draft, although it is widely expected he will do so. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features Colorado. During the review, Ari and James analyze the Colorado Buffaloes' season, examining how the team improved from the previous year. They discuss areas for potential growth in the offseason, despite facing challenges posed by the transfer portal. The conversation concludes with their thoughts on what’s next for the Buffaloes in the upcoming season. Jack Carlough, Publisher of BuffInsider for 24/7 Sports & CBS Sports, joined Big 12 Today to discuss the Colorado Buffaloes' basketball season. He noted that while the team performed better this year compared to the last, they still fell short of expectations for qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. Regarding Colorado's NIL situation, Jack highlighted that it needs significant improvement. He shared that the team’s goals include returning to the NCAA Tournament and achieving around 20 wins overall. Although they experienced success in the Pac-12, they have yet to meet expectations in the Big 12, but reaching the 20-win threshold could enable them to compete with top teams like Arizona, Houston, and Kansas. Carlough also discussed football, expressing confidence that the team will improve with Coach Prime healthy and expects Colorado to make a bowl game next season. TUNE IN!

Former Utah RB Zack Moss joined Big 12 Today to discuss his football journey. Moss shared how COVID significantly impacted his plans for NFL preparation and emphasized the differences between college and professional football, noting that mistakes in college are less forgiving in the NFL. He reminisced about playing high school football in Miami with Tyler Huntley, who inspired his decision to attend Utah. Moss also revealed that former NFL WR Santana Moss is his cousin. He reflected on his career with the Bills and Colts, recounting a challenging period when he broke his neck in three places during Week 1 with the Bengals. He explained that he didn’t realize the severity until Week 10 when symptoms affected other parts of his body. Looking ahead, Moss emphasized that his top priority is his personal health. He concluded by expressing gratitude for his time with the Bills and Colts, highlighting how playing alongside players like Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Jonathan Taylor helped him grow both on and off the field. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features Arizona State. During the review, Ari and James dive into the Sun Devils season — analyzing what went wrong, what they can improve on in the offseason, and the key roster changes through the transfer portal. They also discuss what to expect from the Sun Devilsnext season. Chris Karpman, Owner and Publisher of SunDevilSource.com for 24/7 Sports, appeared on Big 12 Today to discuss the Arizona State Sun Devils' recent season. He addressed the expected departure of Bobby Hurley, noting that both parties were able to part ways amicably. Despite the transfer portal being open, Karpman mentioned that new head coach Randy Bennett has not yet been formally introduced. He also highlighted that Arizona State is not anticipated to retain many players from this past year's roster. Additionally, Karpman provided insights into the school's NIL budget and shared expectations for Bennett's coaching approach compared to Hurley's. TUNE IN!

Former Baylor quarterback Bryce Petty joined Big 12 Today to share his insights ahead of the upcoming NFL draft. During the segment, Petty highlighted Sawyer Robertson, who is expected to be the first quarterback drafted from the Big 12 this year, and offered his thoughts on how offensive strategies have evolved over the years. Petty explained that offenses are run very differently now compared to his playing days, emphasizing the shift from traditional pocket passers to more mobile, dual-threat quarterbacks. He noted that the quarterback position has undergone significant changes, with today's stars often showcasing agility and athleticism alongside passing skills. Reflecting on his own NFL career, Petty expressed no regrets, despite it not being the long, luxurious career many dream of. "I’ve loved every moment of football," he said. "Making it to the NFL and living that dream is something I cherish, regardless of how long it lasted." He also shared his passion for the game, emphasizing how football continues to be a great sport and how athletes who reach the NFL are truly living their dream. Petty concluded by reminiscing about his favorite moments from his college days at Baylor, celebrating the memories that helped shape his journey. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features Baylor. During the review, Ari and James dive into the Bears season — analyzing what went wrong, what they can improve on in the offseason, and the key roster changes through the transfer portal. They also discuss what to expect from the Bears next season. John Morris, Baylor's play-by-play announcer, joined Big 12 Today to reflect on the Baylor Bears’ recent season. The team experienced a disappointing year but is optimistic about making significant improvements next season. The program continues to have faith in head coach Scott Drew’s leadership. John discussed how Baylor has managed the transfer portal under Drew’s guidance and addressed the challenges the team faced at point guard following the departure of Rob Wright III the previous season. He also shared insights on NBA projections for Cameron Carr and Tounde Yessoufou, expressing cautious optimism about Carr’s potential return. John noted that Carr might choose to stay due to the financial opportunities Baylor can offer compared to what he might receive in the NBA, especially considering that he could earn more next season in the league. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Today Recaps the 2025-2026 Season! Join Ari and James for a full court review of the 2025-2026 Big 12 basketball season. In Modelo's Big 12 Basketball Team Recaps, this episode features Oklahoma State. During the review, Ari and James dive into the Wilcats' season — analyzing what went wrong, what they can improve on in the offseason, and the key roster changes through the transfer portal. They also discuss what to expect from the Cowboys next season. Eric Bailey, Oklahoma State beat writer for Tulsa World, joined Big 12 Today to review the Oklahoma State Cowboys' basketball season. He began by addressing a separate incident involving Oklahoma State softball, where the team bus was involved in a tragic accident after striking a pedestrian weaving in traffic. Fortunately, no players, coaches, or staff were injured or killed, but the incident deeply affected the team, leading to the postponement of their game against Wichita State. Returning to basketball, Bailey discussed the Cowboys’ performance this season, noting improvement over last year. Although expectations are higher for year three under head coach Steve Lutz, the team needs to play at a faster pace. Fans had hoped the Cowboys would reach the NCAA tournament this year, and while they did not, progress is evident. Bailey highlighted Oklahoma State’s strong scoring ability but emphasized the need to find balance through the transfer portal by acquiring players who excel defensively and can serve as an inside presence. Bailey also mentioned Oklahoma State’s interest in Kansas’ Flory Bidunga and stressed the importance of winning close games, especially in a competitive Big 12 conference, to maximize their chances of success moving forward. TUNE IN!

Arizona football head coach Brent Brennan appeared on Big 12 Today to discuss spring football and the offseason for the Arizona Wildcats. He began by congratulating the men's basketball team, led by Tommy Lloyd, for their trip to the Final Four, highlighting the excitement surrounding Tucson sports. Brennan praised Noah Fifita, returning to Arizona, calling him fit for an exciting year and commending his maturity both on and off the field, attributing that to his parents. He emphasized the strong culture and identity being established at the University of Arizona, noting that players have already begun demonstrating this in spring football and that the team aims to carry it into the fall. Brennan highlighted how new players are adapting to the Wildcats' scheme, especially defensively, and credited his players and staff for their leadership and seamless integration of transfers and recruits. Regarding the transfer portal, Brennan acknowledged the challenges but expressed gratitude that many of his players have remained. Overall, he is very optimistic about the upcoming season as he, his staff, and his players prepare for what's ahead. TUNE IN!