The Big 12 coaching landscape has experienced significant changes since last year, with only one of the previous longest-tenured coaches remaining. As of 2026, the average tenure among the league's 16 head coaches is just 2.75 years, highlighting a trend of rapid turnover. Kalani Sitake of BYU has risen to the top of the rankings after a successful two-season stint, while Deion Sanders' stock has notably declined. This ranking marks a pivotal moment in the conference's coaching dynamics, as nearly all top positions have shifted dramatically.

By the Numbers
  • Kalani Sitake is ranked No. 12 nationally, up from No. 6 in the Big 12 last year.
  • Willie Fritz and Joey McGuire improved their rankings from No. 11 and No. 13 respectively to No. 2 and No. 3 in the Big 12.
Yes, But

Despite impressive rises like Sitake's, the rapid turnover could lead to instability for some programs, potentially impacting their performance in future seasons. The loss of experienced coaches may introduce challenges for newly recruited ones, as they work to establish their own systems and cultures.

State of Play
  • Four new head coaches have joined the Big 12, altering the competitive landscape significantly.
  • Only one coach remains among the previous longest-tenured in the conference.
What's Next

The rankings are expected to continue evolving as the new coaches establish themselves and existing ones either regain or fail to maintain their positions. Key performances in the upcoming season could result in further shifts in power dynamics and influence future recruitment strategies.

Bottom Line

The ongoing coaching upheaval within the Big 12 reflects both opportunity and uncertainty. Coaches like Sitake must leverage their successes to maintain top positions, while those like Sanders need to reposition themselves to avoid further decline. This is a crucial moment for all programs involved.