The 2026 recruiting rankings are out—and the Big 12 is making serious moves. In this episode of First and 12, we break down how Big 12 programs are climbing the recruiting ladder and why this sudden momentum may be forcing the Big Ten’s hand in pushing for a playoff auto-bid deal. With powerhouse programs like Kansas State, UCF, and Arizona trending up, is the Big Ten scared of being left behind?

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The Big Ten and SEC are at it again—this time clashing over College Football Playoff structure and how many conference games each league should play. In this episode of First and 12, Adam Gibby breaks down the battle between the sport's two biggest powers and explains how their disagreement could create a window for the Big 12 to gain leverage, visibility, and more playoff access. Is this the Big 12’s moment to rise above the noise?

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As the College Football Playoff becomes more competitive and cutthroat, some top programs are backing out of big-time nonconference matchups in favor of easier wins. In this episode of First and 12, Adam Gibby breaks down the growing trend of schedule manipulation and what it means for the Big 12. Should Big 12 schools start doing the same to boost playoff odds? Or will staying battle-tested hurt them in the rankings? We explore the strategic shift happening across college football—and whether the Big 12 should adapt or stand firm.

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