With the Big 12 football schedule released, I must admit that I have been starring at it non-stop. Last week, I ranked the winners and losers of the Big 12 football schedule, but today I wanted to answer a few questions some people had.
What is the best non-conference game and what is the worst? What about the best conference game and worst conference game? I have the answer for all four questions for you right here.
Best Non-Conference Game
Arizona State at Texas A&M (September 12th)
There were a few directions I could have gone with this such as Notre Dame at BYU, but at the end of the day, this had to be the No. 1 non-conference game in the Big 12. Last year, Arizona State fell short against Mississippi State on the road and now they get an opportunity to avenge that loss against another SEC opponent on the road.
Kyle Field is one of the toughest places to play in college football and the Aggies are likely going to be a playoff team once again in 2026. The Sun Devils lost several key players to the NFL and the transfer portal as Kenny Dillingham looks to get his program back on top of the Big 12.
Every game against an SEC team is important, especially on the road. The playoff committee always values these types of non-conference games, and it is certainly a chance to boost your resume. Plus, anytime the Big 12 can take down a team from the almighty SEC, it is always good.
Worst Non-Conference Game
Murray State at Oklahoma State (September 19th)
I know the Oklahoma State Cowboys will have a lot of new faces in 2026, but first year head coach Eric Morris gets a nice easy win here when his team hosts Murray State on September 19th. I am not going to lie, I didn’t even know Murray State had a football team and after looking at their record, I can see why most people don’t.
The Racers are going into their third season with head coach Jody Wright who has a 2-22 record in Murray, Kentucky. The two wins have come against Mississippi Valley State (2024) and Indiana State (2025).
Outside of that Indiana State game from last season, Murray State was not competitive in any of their 11 losses. In fact, all of those losses were by at least two touchdowns. Oklahoma State hosts Oregon the week before, but this game against Murray State should be a breeze before Big 12 play begins.
Best Conference Game
BYU at Utah (November 7th)
Big 12 title implications? Check. Rivalry Game? Check.
Since we don’t get a Texas Tech vs. BYU matchup in the regular season, this was the best game in the Big 12. The Utes should still be solid next season with Devon Dampier returning even though Kyle Whittingham is no longer there. And as for BYU, they are the clear runner up behind only Texas Tech going into next season.
There’s a reason why this has become the best rivalry in the Big 12 and it’s because these two schools hate each other with a passion that burns much longer than the 45 miles that separates them. The Holy War isn’t just the best rivalries in the Big 12, it’s one of the best rivalries in the sport.
Last season, both teams were chasing a Big 12 title and that game in Provo was crucial. I expect nothing short of a hard-nosed, physical football game when these two meet up on the gridiron. And what makes this game even more interesting is the fact that this year’s matchup will be played in Salt Lake City.
Worst Conference Game
West Virginia at Texas Tech (November 7th)
Funny enough, the same day the best game in the Big 12 is played just so happens to be the same day the worst game in the Big 12 is played. When I look at Texas Tech’s schedule for next season, it’s hard to find a loss.
The Red Raiders were by far the best team in the conference last season and that will likely be the case again in 2026. Of course, some games will be tougher than others, but when I look at their game against West Virginia in Lubbock, I see a big win.
This is no disrespect to West Virginia, but they are not on the same level as Texas Tech in Year 2 under Rich Rod. Maybe in time they will be, but not next season. Then again, I also didn’t see the Mountaineers taking down Houston last year, but they did, so maybe I am dead wrong about this one.
