SQUAD: Darkhorse CONTENDERS Emerging in the Big 12 to Challenge BYU, Utah & Texas Tech's Authority? | Big 12 Squad Show

The Big 12 contenders are starting to emerge. The Locked On Big 12 Squad dives into the latest going on within the conference, including one shocking take about the Baylor Bears.

Baylor's surprising 4-1 start has quietly turned heads across the Big 12, especially given how few pundits expected Dave Aranda's squad to make this kind of noise right out of the gate.

After a heartbreaking, literal one-point stumble against Auburn in the opener, the Bears didn't spiral—they completely flipped the script. The offense has suddenly found a devastating, explosive rhythm, highlighted by a masterclass performance in a 55-19 demolition of Arizona State where they racked up over 500 yards of total offense. Balanced play-calling, sharp execution in the skill positions, and a defensive front that is suddenly winning the line of scrimmage have given this team an entirely new identity.

What makes this early surge so compelling is how they are doing it. Rather than relying on smoke and mirrors, Baylor is imposing its physical will, suffocating opponents on defense, and executing with a level of trench toughness that was missing during previous struggles.

Of course, the meat grinder of the conference schedule is still waiting around the corner, with heavy-hitting tests against the likes of TCU, Iowa State, and BYU looming large. But for now, the Bears have completely altered the narrative in Waco, proving they are fully equipped to survive the weekly Big 12 bloodbath.

Do you think Baylor’s high-flying start is sustainable once they run into the true heavy-hitters of the conference gauntlet?

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Jake Hatch brings you daily coverage of the BYU Cougars with the Locked On Cougars Podcast. Locked On Cougars brings BYU fans the latest news and comprehensive coverage when it comes to the BYU football and basketball programs as well as a look at the other teams in the BYU athletic department. Jake gives you his unique insights and insider information about the Cougs as they continue "on the trail to fame and glory" every weekday, along with interviews with players, coaches, experts, and alumni that you will not find anywhere else.

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