Is Expansion Big 12 Media Poll TRASH: Utah High, Colorado too Low, West Virginia/Kansas Disrespect

Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast

The Big 12 preseason media poll, while a valuable tool for gauging expectations and generating discussion, has a mixed track record in terms of accuracy. As with any preseason poll, it is based on projections and expert opinions that can be influenced by various factors such as returning players, coaching changes, and previous season performances. However, predicting the exact outcomes of a highly competitive and dynamic conference like the Big 12 is inherently challenging. Track Record and Variables Historically, the Big 12 preseason media poll has had varying degrees of success in predicting the final standings. There are seasons when the poll has accurately identified the conference champion or the top teams, but there are also years when unexpected developments have led to significant deviations from the preseason predictions. Factors such as injuries, breakout performances, and the unpredictable nature of college sports contribute to this variability. Upsets and Surprises The Big 12 is known for its competitive balance and propensity for upsets. Teams that are ranked lower in the preseason poll often defy expectations and outperform projections. Conversely, teams that start the season with high expectations can sometimes underperform. This unpredictability makes the Big 12 exciting but also complicates the task of making accurate preseason predictions. For example, teams like Baylor and Kansas State have historically been underestimated, only to surprise the conference with strong performances. Media and Analyst Perspectives The media and analysts who vote in the poll rely on a mix of qualitative and quantitative assessments. They consider returning starters, key recruits, coaching stability, and past performance. However, these factors cannot fully account for the in-season developments that can dramatically alter a team's trajectory. Additionally, preseason polls tend to reflect a consensus view, which might not always capture the nuances and potential of each team. Impact on Teams and Fans Despite its mixed accuracy, the Big 12 preseason media poll plays a significant role in shaping expectations and narratives for the upcoming season. It provides fans with a starting point for discussions and helps teams gauge where they stand in the eyes of observers. Coaches often use these rankings to motivate their players, especially those who feel they have been underestimated. Conclusion In conclusion, while the Big 12 preseason media poll offers valuable insights and generates excitement, its accuracy is variable due to the unpredictable nature of college football. The competitive balance and potential for upsets within the Big 12 make it difficult to predict exact outcomes. Nonetheless, the poll remains an important part of the preseason landscape, setting the stage for the drama and excitement of the college football season. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. eBay MotorsFrom brakes to exhaust kits and beyond, eBay Motors has over 122 million parts to keep your ride-or-die alive. With all the parts you need at the prices you want, it’s easy to bring home that big win. Keep your ride-or-die alive at EbayMotors.com. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. FanDuelFanDuel, America’s Number One Sportsbook. As playoffs wind down, the sports stop sporting like we want them to. But this summer, FanDuel is hooking up ALL CUSTOMERS with a boost or a bonus, DAILY! That’s right, there’s something for everyone, every day, all summer long! Visit FANDUEL.COM/LOCKEDON and add a big win to your summer bucket list! FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectoll Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12