Big 12 Today

Former NFL and Kansas State Offensive Tackle Barrett Brooks Joins Big 12 Today!

Former NFL and Kansas State offensive tackle Barrett Brooks joined Big 12 Today to reflect on his career in both the NFL and at Kansas State, as well as share insights on the current Kansas State team. Brooks discussed what fans can expect from head coach Collin Klein and shared his perspective on how the Big 12 Conference has evolved since his playing days when it was known as the Big 8. He remarked, "I went to Kansas State before it was cool to go to Kansas State." Brooks recounted his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers under legendary head coach Bill Cowher and highlighted how playing for Coach Snyder at Kansas State was life-changing. He credited Coach Snyder with helping him become a man, emphasizing that back in his era—when NIL money wasn’t a factor—Snyder focused on developing better men and football players. Brooks also shared a personal story about a time he wanted to quit Kansas State football, but Coach Snyder refused to let him give up. TUNE IN!

Max Olson, ESPN National College Football & Transfer Portal Reporter, Joins Big 12 Today!

Max Olson, ESPN's National College Football & Transfer Portal Reporter, joined Big 12 Today to discuss his recent article on Oklahoma State football and their comprehensive transfer overhaul. Oklahoma State has added 85 new players this offseason, prompting questions about the team's identity. Olson breaks down the narrative that Oklahoma State is merely "North Texas," emphasizing that the Cowboys are not the same team but still have the potential for instant success—highlighting Drew Mestemaker and Eric Morris as key factors. Olson analyzes the transfer portal class and evaluates the hit rates of teams from this offseason, providing insights into how teams are shaping up. He shares his thoughts on Brendan Sorsby, noting the possibility that Sorsby could see playing time this season, while also acknowledging the chance he might enter the NFL Supplemental Draft. Finally, Olson discusses whether the transfer portal has affected quarterback competitions, suggesting that programs prefer to enter the season with clear plans to succeed and minimize uncertainties. TUNE IN!

Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark joins Big 12 Today!

Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark joined Big 12 Today to discuss the present and future of the conference. He began by commenting on the RedBird Capital deal and its significance for the Big 12. Yormark also shared his stance on college football playoff expansion, advocating for a move from 12 to 24 teams, believing that many talented teams are being left out of the current CFP format. He expressed support for NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament expansion, viewing March Madness as a vital part of American sports and believing that expansion will benefit the second best basetball league in the world.  Yormark highlighted the NFL Draft, noting the 38 Big 12 players drafted, and touched on spring sports, including the NCAA Softball Tournament and the Big 12 Baseball Tournament. TUNE IN!

West Virginia Baseball Head Coach Steve Sabins Joins Big 12 Today!

West Virginia Baseball Head Coach Steve Sabins joined Big 12 Today to discuss his team's recent success. Sabins highlighted the importance of their defensive strategy, emphasizing how strategic athletes have contributed to numerous wins. He specifically credited Armani Guzman, one of the fastest players in baseball, describing him as a tremendous athlete. Sabins noted that Guzman didn't see much action during his sophomore year but seized opportunities with pinch hits during last season's Big 12 Tournament. His performance was outstanding, leading the regional, advancing the team to a Super Regional, and demonstrating his selflessness and elite gold glove defense at first base. Overall, Coach Sabins expressed confidence that his team has earned the right to host a regional. TUNE IN!

ESPN Analyst & Texas Volts GM Cat Osterman Joins Big 12 Today!

ESPN Analyst and Texas Volts GM Cat Osterman joined Big 12 Today to discuss the NCAA Softball Regionals. She highlighted the evolution of scouting compared to the old days and praised Texas Tech’s remarkable comeback victory over Ole Miss on Saturday. Osterman also analyzed the performances of Oklahoma State, UCF, and Arizona State, celebrating their wins in the Regionals. Additionally, she shared advice for Nijaree Canady after her challenging weekend, emphasizing the importance of having a short-term memory and staying calm under pressure. TUNE IN!