Fall preview: Top 3 position battles to watch in the Big 12

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Offseason headlines emanating from the Big 12 had more to do with happenings off the field rather than on it, but that's about to change with the new season fast approaching.

With that in mind, here are three of the Big 12's biggest position battles to watch, all of which could go a long way in shaping the landscape of the conference in 2016:

Baylor - WR

Wide Receiver U could use some more wide receivers. Baylor has a star in KD Cannon, but the Bears face several questions at the position after him. Jay Lee, the team's third-leading receiver from 2015, also moved on from the team, leaving Chris Platt and his 11 receptions for 155 yards as the team's second-most productive returning wideout. Baylor's shelves aren't as stocked as they once were, either, as highly touted freshman Tren'Davian Dickson transferred out of the program after Art Briles was relieved of his duties as head coach.

Oklahoma - CB

How Oklahoma goes about replacing Zach Sanchez could make or break the Sooners' 2016 season. Last year's offense remains largely intact, but the defense lost its star corner in Sanchez, while fellow starter Jordan Thomas had his offseason highlighted by an arrest for assault and battery. P.J. Mbanasor, Dakota Austin, and William Johnson could all vie for playing time in the secondary, and how they perform will be pivotal in determining whether or not Oklahoma can make it back to the College Football Playoff.

Texas - QB

True freshman Shane Buechele seems to be the darling of Austin, but that may not mean a whole lot to the man making decisions at Texas. Head coach Charlie Strong has assured Longhorns fans his prized freshman will see the field in 2016, but he's also made it clear that Buechele will have his work cut out to surpass veterans Jerrod Heard and Tyrone Swoopes. Both Heard and Swoopes had their opportunities last year, but their season-long inconsistencies forced Strong to answer quarterback-related questions all winter, spring, and summer.