Big 12 football power rankings after spring portal closes: Did Buffaloes get better?

Coach Prime and his family have talked a big game out all offseason in Boulder, but where do the Buffs realistically stack up in the new-look Big 12? It might not be as high as Sanders and Colorado fans hope.

Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2)
Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) | Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
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Key losses: T.J. Tampa, DeShawn Hanika Key additions: Isaiah Alston, Jalen Travis, Jaylon Jackson

Remember when Matt Campbell was the hottest name in college football coaching and was even floated as a possible candidate for NFL head coaching jobs? That sure seems crazy now considering Iowa State has plateaued and Campbell’s stock has fallen so far that he could even be on the hot seat after another underwhelming year. 

Last year, Iowa State’s offense was just not good enough, only averaging 364.9 yards per game and 26.2 points. Defensively, the Cyclones were fairly stout, finishing second in the conference in yards allowed per game. Still, without any playmakers who scare the opponent, the Cyclones are mediocre at best and could continue to slide down the Big 12 hierarchy. 

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Schedule