The Big 12 Conference, spearheaded by Commissioner Brett Yormark, is a fervent proponent of the 5+11 College Football Playoff format, a structure widely supported by its coaches as the optimal path forward. This proposed 16-team playoff model allocates automatic bids to the five highest-ranked conference champions, with the remaining eleven berths awarded as at-large selections. This approach fundamentally aligns with the Big 12's philosophy of "earning it on the field," prioritizing on-field performance over predetermined conference allocations.

Unlike models that might guarantee a fixed number of spots for certain conferences, the 5+11 format ensures that every conference champion, including the Big 12's, has a direct route to the postseason. Big 12 coaches appreciate that this system fosters genuine competitive balance, rewarding strong regular-season campaigns and allowing multiple teams from the league to contend for at-large spots based purely on merit. While it may not guarantee multiple Big 12 entrants annually, it maintains the potential for broad representation, reflecting the conference's depth. This commitment to fairness and the integrity of collegiate competition is why many within the Big 12 believe the 5+11 format is unequivocally the best for the league.

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Big 12 Media Days Shake Up College Football Landscape. Is a new era of NIL deals and conference realignment on the horizon?

Parker Ainsworth, Jake Hatch, and JT Worcestershill break down the biggest stories from Frisco, Texas. The hosts analyze Joey Maguire's call for player contracts, Brett Yormark's firm stance on playoff formats, and the debate over Big 12's depth. Key topics include the enforcement of NIL rules, the 5+11 format's impact on conference standing, and the pros and cons of parity vs. dominant teams.

Don't miss this insider look at college football's future. Will the Big 12 emerge as the deepest conference in the nation?

Kenny Dillingham's assertion that "recruiting is dead, retention is alive" encapsulates a growing sentiment in college football, emphasizing the importance of player development and loyalty in the transfer portal era. While retention is undeniably crucial, this perspective doesn't necessarily diminish the importance of recruiting for every program, especially one like Iowa State. For the Cyclones, success has been built on a robust foundation of excelling at both recruiting and retaining talent.

Iowa State, under Matt Campbell, has consistently punched above its weight in recruiting. They've mastered the art of identifying undervalued prospects who fit their specific cultural and schematic needs, often developing two and three-star recruits into NFL-caliber players. This isn't just about finding warm bodies; it's about strategic, targeted recruiting that brings in individuals committed to the program's long-term vision.

Simultaneously, Iowa State boasts an impressive track record of retention. Their strong team culture, player-first approach, and consistent coaching staff have fostered an environment where athletes want to stay, grow, and contribute. Players buy into the program's philosophy, seeing a clear path to development and success, which minimizes departures through the transfer portal.

Thus, for Iowa State, it's not a zero-sum game between recruiting and retention. Their ability to consistently bring in the right talent and keep them within the program has been a cornerstone of their rise. Dillingham's statement highlights a critical shift in the landscape, but Iowa State demonstrates that for some, mastering both facets remains the optimal path to sustained competitiveness.

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The recent Big 12 Media Days revealed a significant point of contention among coaches: widespread confusion surrounding the evolving rules of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and college football recruiting. Instead of focusing solely on on-field strategies, many coaches voiced bewilderment over the shifting landscape of player compensation, third-party deals, and compliance, particularly in the wake of the NCAA's historic antitrust settlement and the impending revenue-sharing model. This collective uncertainty from the sport's leaders is a major concern.

Such ambiguity presents a profound problem for college football, risking competitive imbalance and a chaotic recruiting environment. Coaches are grappling with how to navigate a system where some schools appear to be "frontloading" NIL deals or guaranteeing third-party compensation, potentially circumventing new revenue-share caps. This lack of clarity can lead to an uneven playing field, where programs with more aggressive or less scrupulous approaches to NIL might gain an unfair advantage in attracting top talent, while others struggle to understand and adhere to the ever-changing guidelines. The constant threat of NCAA enforcement actions for past or present violations further complicates an already opaque system.

For Iowa State, this confusion could be particularly problematic. While the Cyclones have been proactive in establishing their "We Will Collective" and are preparing to maximize revenue sharing, the fluid nature of NIL and recruiting rules poses a challenge. Programs like Iowa State, which historically rely on strong player development and a cohesive team culture, could find themselves at a disadvantage if they are unable to match the financial incentives offered by schools operating in a less regulated or more aggressive NIL space. The uncertainty makes long-term roster management and consistent recruiting incredibly difficult, potentially impacting their ability to compete at the highest level in the highly competitive Big 12 conference. Clarity and consistent enforcement are crucial for fair competition, and their absence could cast a shadow over the season and beyond.

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Iowa State's path back to the Big 12 Championship game this season hinges squarely on the shoulders of its formidable defense. Under Coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones have consistently built a reputation for defensive tenacity, and this year's squad appears poised to continue that tradition, perhaps even elevating it.

The preseason Big 12 All-Conference team selections underscore this defensive strength, with key players earning well-deserved recognition. The inclusion of Dom Orange and Jontez Williams, along with another talented defensive back in Jeremiah Cooper, signals a secondary that will be among the conference's elite. Their ability to lock down opposing receivers and create turnovers will be crucial in a pass-happy league like the Big 12. This veteran presence and playmaking ability in the defensive backfield will provide a strong foundation.

Beyond the secondary, the linebacking corps remains a significant asset. Iowa State's linebackers are known for their physicality, intelligence, and versatility, excelling in both run support and pass coverage. This unit's capacity to disrupt opposing offenses, stuff the run, and pressure quarterbacks will complement the strong defensive backfield perfectly. The synergy between these two units — a dominant secondary and a robust linebacking core — will create a suffocating defense capable of frustrating even the most potent Big 12 offenses. This collective strength on defense will be the primary engine driving Iowa State's return to championship contention.

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Big 12 Media Days serve as a pivotal platform for Iowa State University's football program, offering a unique opportunity for both its athletes and Head Coach Matt Campbell to address the most pressing questions surrounding the team. In the pre-season, speculation runs rampant, and fans, analysts, and rivals alike are eager for insights into the team's readiness, strategy, and overall outlook.

For the Iowa State athletes chosen to represent their team, Media Days provide invaluable experience in public speaking and handling media scrutiny. It's a chance for them to articulate the team's goals, discuss their individual progress, and convey the collective spirit and determination within the locker room. This direct interaction helps shape narratives and build anticipation, allowing players to set the tone for the upcoming season.

Coach Matt Campbell, a respected figure in college football, leverages this event to directly communicate his vision and address any lingering uncertainties. Whether it's discussing roster changes, injury updates, or strategic adjustments, Campbell's presence at Media Days is crucial for transparency and managing expectations. He can offer clarity on depth charts, highlight emerging talent, and reaffirm the program's foundational principles. Ultimately, Big 12 Media Days act as a vital forum for Iowa State to control its narrative, build excitement, and answer the critical questions that define their journey into the new season.

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The recent preseason ranking by the Locked On Podcast Network, placing Iowa State as the 5th best football team in the Big 12, might initially sting for some fans. After years of battling for respect, a mid-conference ranking could be perceived as a slight, a reminder that the Cyclones aren't yet universally seen as an elite program. However, a deeper look reveals this ranking to be a significant compliment and a testament to the program's remarkable ascent.

For decades, Iowa State was often an afterthought in Big 12 football, frequently projected near the bottom. To now be consistently placed in the top half, even at number five, signals a profound shift in perception. It means that the consistent success under Coach Matt Campbell, the development of NFL-caliber talent, and the team's ability to compete for conference championships are no longer flukes but expected norms.

Being ranked 5th isn't a dig; it's an acknowledgment of sustained relevance. It implies that while there might be a few teams currently seen as slightly ahead, Iowa State is firmly in the conversation for conference contention. This ranking suggests the Cyclones are no longer merely "punching above their weight" but are legitimately viewed as a top-tier program capable of challenging for the Big 12 crown. It's a clear indicator that Iowa State has arrived as a respected force in the conference.

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Big 12 shakeup: BYU QB Jake Retzlaff exits, Texas State joins PAC-12. Is college football's landscape shifting dramatically?

Host Drake Toll and the squad analyze Retzlaff's departure from BYU Football and its impact on the Cougars' upcoming season. The team dissects Texas State's surprising move to the PAC-12, exploring potential recruiting battles and conference realignment strategies. Discussions cover Sacramento State's aggressive push into college football prominence and the evolving dynamics of TV revenue in the sport. Jake Hatch offers insider perspectives on BYU's quarterback situation.

Tune in for expert analysis on how these moves could reshape the future of Big 12 Football and beyond.