Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels has expressed his readiness to play a game presently; nonetheless, Coach Lance Leipold and the Jayhawks are aiming for him to be fully prepared for the upcoming season. Daniels was sidelined for a significant part of the previous season due to a back injury, participating in merely three games before September. Leipold mentioned during the Big 12 media days that Daniels would not be at the event if they did not believe he would be fit for the season. The team is currently projected fourth in the Big 12 preseason media poll, with many expectations hinging on Daniels’ recovery. The Jayhawks’ season commences on August 29 at home against FCS team Lindenwood.

Last season, Daniels delivered 705 passing yards and five touchdowns, alongside no rushing touchdowns, a significant dip from his 2022 stats of 2,014 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and seven rushing scores. Leipold expressed his anticipation for Daniels’ performance this season and commended his dedication to the prescribed regimen by medical professionals and coaches as they gear up for August. On the other hand, West Virginia, led by coach Neal Brown, defied expectations last season by finishing at 9-4 overall and securing a 6-3 record in the Big 12, surpassing their predicted last-place finish. Brown believes his team is being underestimated once more despite ending the previous season with a triumphant three-game streak.

Moreover, the Big 12 Alumni Council was introduced, featuring distinguished former student-athletes such as Steve Young, Robert Griffin III, and Andre Ware among the 32 members. This council, representing the 16 schools in the newly expanded league, is set to provide valuable insights and perspectives as the Big 12 transitions into a 16-team setup. Commissioner Brett Yormark emphasized the significance of the council’s contributions encompassing brand building, athlete relations, storytelling, and digital content. Additionally, Houston’s new head coach Willie Fritz, a Shawnee Mission, Kansas native, is anticipating a special homecoming when the Cougars face Kansas at Arrowhead Stadium on October 19. Fritz, with 31 years of coaching experience, including eight at Tulane, is embarking on his maiden season coaching in a power conference following his appointment to replace Dana Holgorsen at Houston.