As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the NCAA transfer portal has emerged as a crucial avenue for teams to bolster their rosters. In the Big 12 conference, two perennial powerhouses, Texas and Oklahoma, have made significant moves in the transfer market to strengthen their squads ahead of the highly anticipated 2023 season. With a host of talented players joining their ranks, both programs are aiming to make an instant impact and reclaim their position at the top of the conference. Let’s take a closer look at the top transfers for Texas, Oklahoma, and other Big 12 schools that are ready to leave a lasting impact on the field.
Texas: Jalen Catalon brings Defensive Excellence
Injuries may have hampered Jalen Catalon in recent seasons, but there is no denying his potential as one of the nation’s top defensive backs. The Arkansas transfer made a name for himself during his freshman year, earning All-SEC and Freshman All-America honors with impressive stats: 99 tackles, three interceptions, and four passes defended. Catalon’s presence in the Longhorns’ defensive backfield under the guidance of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is set to bring a new level of playmaking and reliability to Texas’ defense. If he can stay healthy, Catalon has the potential to become a highly sought-after draft prospect.
Oklahoma: Dasan McCullough Injects Defensive Versatility
Oklahoma’s defense receives a significant boost with the arrival of Dasan McCullough, who impressed during his freshman season at Indiana. With 49 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, and three passes defended, McCullough showcased his potential as a disruptive force on the field. Now, under the tutelage of defensive coordinator Brent Venables, McCullough is expected to thrive in the “Cheetah” hybrid role, providing the Sooners with a versatile playmaker capable of plugging holes at various levels of the defense. McCullough’s impact could be instrumental in Oklahoma’s quest for dominance in the Big 12, offering fans plenty of excitement when using the PointsBet NJ app to follow the team’s progress.
Baylor: Mike Smith Energizes Linebacker Corps
Baylor’s defense receives a significant boost with the addition of linebacker Mike Smith, who transferred from Liberty. Smith’s exceptional performance in his lone season at Liberty, tallying 85 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, four passes defended, three forced fumbles, and an interception, speaks volumes about his playmaking abilities. With Smith’s dynamic skill set and resemblance to standout Terrel Bernard, Bears’ head coach Dave Aranda can revive his aggressive linebacker blitzing strategy. Smith’s leadership and impact on the field will be invaluable as Baylor looks to solidify its position in the Big 12 hierarchy.
Image source: Heartland College Sports
West Virginia: Keyshawn Cobb Reinforces Defensive Backfield
West Virginia fortifies its defensive backfield with the addition of Keyshawn Cobb, who excelled during his tenure at Buffalo. Cobb’s standout season at Buffalo, where he recorded 66 tackles, six tackles for loss, eight passes defended, and three forced fumbles, showcases his playmaking prowess. Now, slotted into a key role in West Virginia’s defense, Cobb’s versatility as a safety or hybrid SPEAR role player will provide the Mountaineers with much-needed playmaking ability. Cobb’s arrival fills a void in West Virginia’s defense and has the potential to make a significant impact on the team’s performance.
Other Big 12 Transfers to Watch Out For
Beyond Texas and Oklahoma, several other Big 12 teams have made notable additions through the transfer portal, ensuring they remain competitive in the conference.
- BYU: Caleb Etienne, an impressive left tackle, brings stability to the Cougars’ offensive line.
- UCF: Decorian Patterson, a standout transfer from Middle Tennessee, adds depth and versatility to the Knights’ secondary.
- Cincinnati: Xzavier Henderson, a dynamic wide receiver, aims to fill the void left by departing players and provide a spark to the Bearcats’ passing game.
- Houston: Donovan Smith steps into the shoes of the departed Clayton Tune, tasked with leading the Cougars’ offense as the starting quarterback.
- Iowa State: Arlen Harris Jr., a highly sought-after running back, bolsters the Cyclones’ ground game and adds explosiveness to their offensive arsenal.
- Kansas: Logan Brown, a former five-star recruit, offers the Jayhawks a much-needed boost on the offensive line.
- Kansas State: Treshaun Ward, a speedy running back, looks to complement DJ Giddens and provide a potent rushing attack for the Wildcats.
- Oklahoma State: Alan Bowman, a quarterback with a storied freshman season, injects excitement into the Cowboys’ passing game.
- Texas Tech: Deandrae McCray, a speedy wide receiver, adds a new dimension to the Red Raiders’ aerial assault.
As the Big 12 prepares for the 2023 season, the impact of transfers on teams like Texas and Oklahoma cannot be overlooked. These programs have strategically leveraged the transfer portal to secure talented players capable of making an instant impact. However, the influence of transfers is not limited to these powerhouse programs alone. Throughout the conference, teams have utilized the transfer portal to bolster their rosters with skilled athletes who can contribute immediately. This trend has led to heightened competition and excitement within the conference, captivating fans who eagerly follow their favorite teams’ progress, including those who engage with New Jersey online sportsbooks to stay up to date with the latest news, odds, and analysis of the Big 12 football scene. Other Big 12 schools have also made significant additions to their rosters, with the aim of improving competitiveness within the conference. With the infusion of new talent, the landscape of Big 12 football is set for an exciting and unpredictable season ahead.
