Week 13 in the Big 12 is shaping up to be a definitive separation Saturday, with College Football Playoff (CFP) implications hanging precariously in the balance. As the 2025 regular season nears its conclusion, the conference is cannibalizing itself in classic fashion, leaving fans and analysts alike glued to the standings.

The headliner this weekend is undoubtedly No. 11 BYU traveling to No. 25 Cincinnati (8:00 p.m. ET, FOX). The Cougars (9-1) control their own destiny for a trip to Arlington, but Nippert Stadium at night is a notoriously difficult environment. Cincinnati (7-3), despite two straight losses, remains a dangerous spoiler with a defense capable of disrupting BYU's rhythm. A win here for BYU likely solidifies a Top-12 seed, while a loss throws the entire conference race into chaos.

Meanwhile, Texas Tech sits comfortably with a bye week, watching from the No. 6 spot. The Red Raiders have arguably been the surprise of the season, and as noted by Big 12 analyst Drake Toll—who has been vocal about the league's depth all season—Tech’s resurgence has fundamentally altered the playoff math for the entire league. Toll’s recent coverage on Locked On Big 12 highlighted that a 10-win Texas Tech team is a nightmare matchup for any potential playoff opponent.

Elsewhere, Arizona State visits Colorado in a battle of teams refusing to fade away. The Sun Devils, fresh off cracking the CFP Top 25, need a win to keep their slim title game hopes alive. With Kansas State also facing Utah in a "loser leaves town" elimination game, the middle of the pack is fighting for survival.

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