Big 12 Conference newcomers struggled in their league debuts, even after all brought winning programs into the league. BYU, Cincinnati, Houston and UCF all had losing records and were in the bottom half of the Big 12 standings last season. Now after a second spring for the Big 12, that quartet is getting ready for another significant transition in the league, while all have changes of their own.
Iowa State and Kansas State will play their 2025 season opener in Ireland at the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. The Cyclones and Wildcats will close the 2024 regular season in Ames, Iowa, on Nov. 24, and meet again on Aug. 23, 2025, at Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The fourth annual game in Ireland, announced Wednesday, marks the first time ISU and K-State have met in a season opener and third time they've squared off at a neutral site.
Nebraska coach Matt Rhule was one of Tony White's biggest supporters when the defensive coordinator's name was connected to head coach openings beginning late last season. Rhule has said he wants his assistants to advance in their careers, and he was happy to make calls on White's behalf. White stayed put and Rhule selfishly was glad one of the most improved defenses in the country wouldn't have to start over when he begins his second season in Lincoln this fall.