As the Big 12 prepares to welcome four new members and bid farewell to two long-standing ones, many are wondering where Oklahoma State University (OSU) will stand in the changing landscape of the conference. With the departure of powerhouses Oklahoma University (OU) and the University of Texas, OSU has the potential to rise to the top spot in terms of league leadership.
When it comes to football, OSU has had a sustained level of success that rivals any other school remaining in the Big 12. While other schools have had their moments in the spotlight, OSU has consistently achieved winning records for the past 17 seasons. This track record is vital in positioning OSU as a conference leader and potentially filling the void left by OU and Texas.
Furthermore, in terms of all-sport dominance, OSU is well-positioned to take the lead in the Big 12. While schools like Texas and OU have excelled in certain sports, OSU’s overall excellence across different athletic programs is noteworthy. The university finished 25th in the Learfield Director’s Cup standings, placing higher than any other remaining Big 12 member. With a range of sports from softball to golf to track and tennis performing well, OSU has the potential to be a contender in every program.
In addition to its athletic achievements, OSU has also embraced the new leadership within the conference. The recent appointment of Brett Yormark as the new Big 12 commissioner has brought fresh energy and excitement to the conference. OSU’s leaders, including president Kayse Shrum and athletic director Chad Weiberg, have shown a strong rapport with Yormark, which could be advantageous for the university’s standing in the conference.
While things are bound to change for OSU in the future, the addition of four new members and the departure of OU and Texas provide an opportunity for the university to solidify its position in the Big 12. With its history of football success, strong overall athletic performance, and positive relationship with the new conference leadership, OSU is well-poised to carve out a leadership role in the conference.
As the Big 12 continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of college sports, OSU’s steady presence and potential for growth make it a force to be reckoned with. While the departure of two powerhouses might create a temporary imbalance in the conference, OSU’s trajectory suggests that it will be in an even stronger position in the future. As time progresses, only one thing remains certain: college sports will continue to evolve, and OSU will be at the forefront of these changes.
