What’s on the line this week in the Big 12 and who should BYU fans be cheering for?

Iowa State running back Carson Hansen leaps over teammate offensive lineman Tyler Miller as he is tackled by Central Florida running back RJ Harvey during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, in Ames, Iowa. | Matthew Putney

Going into November, even in the chaotic Big 12, there are four clear leaders for the conference championship — and the coveted automatic College Football Playoff berth that comes with it.

There’s unbeaten BYU and Iowa State — the Cougars are 5-0 in league play, while the Cyclones sit at 4-0.

Then there’s Kansas State and Colorado, who are both 4-1 in Big 12 action.

For No. 9 BYU, the first weekend of November is a chance to sit back and watch the rest of the league, with the Cougars on a bye until their Nov. 9 matchup at in-state rival Utah.

How might Week 10 of the 2024 college football season help the Cougars while they are idle?

After coming into the season with modest outside expectations, BYU is now favored in each of its final four games, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index, though that includes road games at rival Utah and 5-2 Arizona State.

The Cougars also have home games against Kansas and Houston remaining.

Note: The rooting guide used in this article is based on what would be best for BYU’s resume in the long run, if the Cougars ultimately have a chance at a spot in the College Football Playoff when the 12-team field is revealed on Dec. 8.

If BYU loses during the regular season and loses ground in the Big 12 standings, the rooting guide will reflect that in later editions of this weekly update.

How could Week 10 impact the Big 12 race?

Texas Tech (5-3, 3-2 Big 12) at No. 11 Iowa State (7-0, 4-0 Big 12), 1:30 p.m. MDT (ESPN)

What’s at stake: The Cyclones kick off a five-game November slate sitting a half-game behind BYU for the conference lead.

Iowa State rallied in the final minute to win in its last game two weeks ago before its bye, and a victory would get them to 5-0 in Big 12 action.

Should the…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/line-week-big-12-byu-040900709.html

Author : Deseret News

Publish date : 2024-11-02 04:09:00

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