Predicting the Big 12 in 2017: Oklahoma still reigns, Texas makes strides

The Big 12 has largely been dominated by one specific program, but that hierarchy could be overthrown by the reintroduction of the Big 12 conference championship game.

Here is a look at predicted end-of-season standings for the Big 12 and what that means for its programs.

All records were compiled based on predictions and cross-referenced across all Power 5 conferences.

It's no secret that Oklahoma has dominated the Big 12 for much of the conference's 21-year history. 2017 doesn't project as much of a change in that regard, as the Sooners may take their third consecutive conference championship this season. For the first time since 2010, though, they'll have to go through another team for the title.

Oklahoma State appears primed to make a run at its in-state rival, largely due to the returns of both Mason Rudolph and James Washington. They're arguably comparable to last year's partnership of Baker Mayfield and Dede Westbrook, and the Cowboys will need every bit of their production if they want to go toe to toe with the offensive powerhouse of Mayfield and Sooners head coach Lincoln Riley.

Conference Predictions - ACC
Conference Predictions - Big Ten
Conference Predictions - Pac-12
Conference Predictions - SEC

West Virginia should head up the middle of the pack in the conference. Will Grier's arrival gives Dana Holgorsen the aerial threat he's lacked in recent years, but it may not be enough to make up for a defense that ranked in the bottom half of the nation in yards allowed per game.

Back-to-back losing seasons aren't in TCU head coach Gary Patterson's DNA, so don't expect the Horned Frogs to be sluggish in 2017. Since taking over at TCU for the 2000 season, Patterson is a combined 33-4 following years in which the Horned Frogs did not post a winning record. After last year's 6-7 finish, a surplus of returning seniors, including quarterback Kenny Hill and leading rusher Kyle Hicks, will make it tough for other teams to keep TCU out of the win column.

For arguably the first time since the Mack Brown era, Texas will be an interesting team to watch as Tom Herman looks to translate the program's successful culture change into on-field results. The Longhorns will be challenged throughout by in-state rivals TCU, as a battle between the Sooner State and the Lone Star State should determine who makes the title game this season.

That said, here is the predicted matchup in the return of the Big 12 championship game for 2017.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys

Both Oklahoma and Oklahoma State will be on their last go-rounds with a number of important leaders on their respective rosters. It's Oklahoma's depth and relentless offense, though, that should help the Sooners take care of the Cowboys and remain the Big 12's reigning, defending champions.

Predicted Big 12 champions: Oklahoma Sooners (11th total title, 3rd consecutive)