The 2026 college football season promises an exciting battle for running back supremacy in the Big 12, with a mix of returning stars, intriguing transfers, and potential breakout candidates. Here's a deep dive into the top contenders, along with personal commentary and analysis.
The Top Contenders
LJ Martin, BYU: The reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, Martin was the driving force behind BYU's 12-win season and a top-11 national ranking in rushing yards. With a chance to become the Cougars' all-time leading rusher, Martin's return was a pivotal offseason moment. However, his health remains a concern, as he's been banged up in the past. (Personally, I think Martin's health will be the key to his success this season. If he stays healthy, he could be the conference's best running back.)
Cameron Dickey, Texas Tech: Dickey proved his worth in a year with a strong Texas Tech offense. His 14 rushing touchdowns led the league, and he averaged 7 points per game. Pairing Dickey with J'Koby Williams could make the Red Raiders' backfield the most explosive in the Big 12. (What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Texas Tech to lean on Dickey early in the season, given their uncertain quarterback situation.)
Caleb Hawkins, Oklahoma State: Hawkins' scoring prowess at North Texas translated to Oklahoma State, where he'll have the opportunity to show his skills at a higher level. His ability to score and his all-purpose yards make him a valuable asset. (In my opinion, Hawkins' transition to Oklahoma State could be a game-changer. With a new coach and a chance to prove himself, he might be the Cowboys' secret weapon.)
Cam Cook, West Virginia: Cook's change of scenery from TCU to Jacksonville State paid off, as he led the nation in rushing yards and all-purpose yards. Reunited with his offensive line coach at Jacksonville State, Rick Trickett, Cook has the potential to bring similar production to West Virginia. (From my perspective, Cook's success at Jacksonville State is a strong indicator of his ability to excel in the Big 12. His reunion with Trickett could be a game-changer for the Mountaineers.)
Wayshawn Parker, Utah: Parker's standout year for the Utes earned him third-team All-Big 12 honors and fourth in the league in rushing yards. With Utah replacing its entire starting offensive line, Parker's performance could be even more impressive in 2026. (One thing that immediately stands out is the potential impact of Utah's offensive line changes on Parker's numbers. If he can adapt, he might be even more explosive.)
The Transfers to Watch
Makhi Hughes, Houston: After a misstep at Oregon, Hughes returns to the Big 12 with a chance to replicate his success at Tulane. If he can find his role, he'll be a valuable piece for the Cougars. (What many people don't realize is that Hughes' experience at Tulane, where he ran for over 1,000 yards, could make him a dark horse contender.)
Joe Jackson, Kansas State: Jackson's late-season surge earned him third-team All-Big 12 honors. With the Wildcats adding transfers Rodney Fields Jr. and Jay Harris, Jackson will have competition but also a chance to build on his success. (If you take a step back and think about it, Jackson's late-season burst could be a sign of things to come. The transfers will add depth, but Jackson might be the surprise star.)
Landen Chambers or Duke Watson, UCF: Both Chambers and Watson bring different skill sets to UCF, having had successful seasons at Central Arkansas and Louisville, respectively. They could be the solution to UCF's search for a starting running back. (This raises a deeper question: Can Chambers and Watson replicate their success at the FBS level? Their different styles could be a fascinating dynamic.)
The Breakout Candidates
Jeremy Payne, TCU: Payne's strong finish to the 2025 season, including a bowl win over USC, makes him a strong candidate for a breakout season. With a new offensive coordinator, Payne might be the key to TCU's success. (A detail that I find especially interesting is the potential impact of Payne's new offensive coordinator, Gordon Sammis. His influence could be the catalyst for Payne's breakout year.)
Dawson Pendergrass, Baylor: Pendergrass' foot injury in the preseason cost him the entire 2025 season, but he has the opportunity to shine in 2026. With Bryson Washington transferring, Pendergrass could be Baylor's top back. (What this really suggests is that Pendergrass' injury is a missed opportunity. If he stays healthy, he could be a game-changer for the Bears.)
Dylan Edwards, Kansas: Edwards' speed and return abilities make him a valuable asset at Kansas. With a fresh start, he could be the solution to the Jayhawks' search for a lead rusher. (What this really suggests is that Edwards' speed and return abilities could be a game-changer for Kansas. His transition to the Big 12 might be smoother than expected.)
The Uncertain Situations
Richard Young, Colorado: Colorado's running game has been stagnant under Deion Sanders. Young, with SEC experience, could be an intriguing option to bring a resurgence to the Buffaloes. (A detail that I find especially interesting is the potential impact of Young's SEC experience on Colorado's running game. His power back skills could be the spark they need.)
Cameron Pettaway, Iowa State: Pettaway's special teams skills and potential as a lead back make him a key player for the Cyclones. With a massive roster overhaul, Pettaway's role could be pivotal. (What this really suggests is that Pettaway's special teams skills could be a hidden gem for Iowa State. His ability to contribute in multiple ways makes him a valuable asset.)
Kyson Brown, Arizona State: Brown's injury-shortened 2025 season could be a sign of things to come. With internal candidates like Jason Brown Jr. and Demarius Robinson, Arizona State's backfield could be in good hands. (What this really suggests is that Brown's injury might be a blessing in disguise. The internal candidates could be the key to the Sun Devils' success.)
In conclusion, the 2026 Big 12 running back landscape is filled with talent, intrigue, and potential. From returning stars to breakout candidates, the conference promises an exciting season of running back battles. As an expert, I'm excited to see how these players perform and who rises to the top.
