Ricky:Kansas State should not be a favorite for next year, but could be one in two years. The Wildcats could lose a lot of key players, but none more important then senior Collin Klein. Klein was a Heisman Finalist this year and was the key to their offense. Yes, freshman quarterback Daniel Sims played when Klein was injury against Oklahoma State, but there might be some growing pains as he steps in to maybe a starting role. To me, I think TCU is my favorite next season. They play well defensively and Trevone Boykin has bloomed nicely at quarterback.

George: I agree, that Kansas State needs to fill the quarterback spot. Klein, graduating creates a huge hole at the spot. Can Sims jump in and play to the same level Klein played at right away? Not likely. Kansas State still will be a talented squad, and likely garner eight wins. Oklahoma who finished second in the Big 12, also will feature a new quarterback, causing stress on head coach Bob Stoops. Baylor is another team who will be searching for a new quarterback after Nick Florence graduated. My favorite for the Big 12 next year is Texas, who had a coming out party in the Alamo Bowl vs Oregon State. Their defense is improving as is quarterback David Ash.

Each week, the staff at Through the Phog will react on the previous day’s games in Big 12 football, basketball and other news that happens in the conference. We are always welcoming of comments that you might have on the topics covered each week. Our current staff includes lead editor George Pike, along with staff writer, Ricky Widmer. 

 

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Jan. 8, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Collin Klein (7) graduates after this year. Can Kansas State still be considered a favorite without him in the Big 12?  Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Ricky: No, I am not surprised that Chip is returning to the Oregon Ducks. I’ve always said that Chip should have stayed with Oregon. He has a good thing going and could win a national championship with the Ducks in the next couple of wins. Why would he want to leave college went the greatest price has not be obtained?

George: I am not surprised that Kelly is returning as he is waiting for that “perfect” NFL job. Kelly has such a good thing going on at Oregon, and the Browns or Eagles are not this job. Both teams have major questions surrounding them as they head into the off-season. Kelly is very smart in returning to the Ducks and not taking a job with serious pressure surrounding it.

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Jan. 8, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Chip Kelly is returning to college after flirting once again with the NFL. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports