IRVING, TX — The race towards the Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship is heating up, with nine teams still in contention for a spot in the title game. Several tie-breaking scenarios are in play, and the outcome of several key matchups is heavily dependent on them.
When only two teams finish with 7–2 records, the solution is straightforward: these two teams will earn their spots in the Championship game. This scenario simplifies the process, but with multiple teams potentially achieving this record, exploring the more complex three- and four-team tie situations becomes essential.
Three-Team Tie Scenarios:
- Colorado Loss: Should Colorado falter in their final matchup, the Championship game would be between Arizona State and Iowa State.
- Arizona State Loss: If Arizona State is defeated, Iowa State will face BYU for the title.
- Iowa State Loss: Arizona State would compete against BYU in the Championship.
- BYU Loss: The scenarios become more nuanced:
- If Texas Tech wins against West Virginia, the outcome will hinge on the games between Baylor and Kansas and Cincinnati versus TCU.
- Baylor and Cincinnati winning would mean Colorado and Iowa State meeting in the Championship.
- If either Baylor or Cincinnati does not secure a victory, Colorado would face Arizona State.
- Should West Virginia beat Texas Tech, the title game would be between Arizona State and Iowa State.
- If Texas Tech wins against West Virginia, the outcome will hinge on the games between Baylor and Kansas and Cincinnati versus TCU.
In the event of a four-way tie at 7-2, the tie-breaking process determines that Arizona State will face Iowa State for the Championship title. This scenario underscores the competitiveness and unpredictability inherent in this week’s games.
For the teams currently at 5-3, their championship ambitions remain alive but depend heavily on their performances and a bit of luck. These teams must win their final games and hope that at least three of the four 6-2 teams experience a defeat. This adds a layer of complexity and excitement as these teams aim to defy the odds and claim their shot at the title.
As Week 14 unfolds, fans will watch keenly to see which teams can navigate these complex scenarios and emerge as contenders for the Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship. With pivotal games and potential upsets on the horizon, every match has the potential to shift the balance and set the stage for an exhilarating conclusion to the season.
