The Big 12 Conference has been home to some of college football’s most electrifying talents since the turn of the millennium. From Heisman Trophy winners to record-breaking performers, the conference has consistently produced elite players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here’s a look at some of the best players to grace Big 12 Conference fields since 2000.
Top Players in Big 12 Conference Since 2000
ALSO READ: The Battle of the Big XII Logos
Quarterbacks
Vince Young (Texas, 2003-2005) stands out as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in Big 12 history. Young led the Longhorns to a national championship in 2005, capping off his college career with a legendary performance in the Rose Bowl against USC. His dual-threat capabilities revolutionized the quarterback position in the conference.
Baker Mayfield (Oklahoma, 2015-2017) became the first walk-on player to win the Heisman Trophy in 2017. Mayfield’s fiery competitiveness and precise passing made him one of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football history. He led Oklahoma to three consecutive Big 12 titles and two College Football Playoff appearances. His time playing for the Tampa Bay Bucs has certainly had some ups and downs, but no one can say Mayfield doesn’t leave it on the field.
Robert Griffin III (Baylor, 2008-2011) brought national attention to Baylor’s program with his electric play. RGIII won the Heisman Trophy in 2011, becoming the first Baylor player to do so. His combination of arm strength and blazing speed made him nearly unstoppable in Art Briles’ high-powered offense.
Running Backs
Adrian Peterson (Oklahoma, 2004-2006) burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2004, finishing second in Heisman Trophy voting. “AD” was a physical marvel, combining breakaway speed with punishing power. Despite battling injuries, Peterson’s impact on the Big 12 Conference was undeniable.
Ricky Williams (Texas, 1995-1998) played most of his career in the ’90s, but his impact extended into 2000 as he set the standard for Big 12 running backs. Williams won the Heisman Trophy in 1998 and finished his career as the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher at the time.
Darren Sproles (Kansas State, 2001-2004) may have been small in stature, but his impact on the field was enormous. Sproles was a versatile threat who could impact the game as a runner, receiver, and returner. His 2003 season, where he amassed over 2,000 yards from scrimmage, remains one of the best in Big 12 Conference history.
Wide Receivers
Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech, 2007-2008) had a brief but brilliant college career. Crabtree won the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver in both of his seasons at Texas Tech. His game-winning catch against Texas in 2008 remains one of the most iconic plays in Big 12 history.
Justin Blackmon (Oklahoma State, 2009-2011) was a dominant force for the Cowboys, winning back-to-back Biletnikoff Awards in 2010 and 2011. Blackmon’s combination of size, speed, and hands made him nearly impossible to cover one-on-one.
Dede Westbrook (Oklahoma, 2015-2016) emerged as one of the most explosive receivers in Big 12 history during his senior season in 2016. Westbrook’s blazing speed and precise route-running made him a perfect fit in Oklahoma’s high-powered offense.
Offensive Linemen
Jammal Brown (Oklahoma, 2001-2004) anchored Oklahoma’s offensive line during one of the most successful periods in program history. Brown won the Outland Trophy as the nation’s top interior lineman in 2004 and was a key part of the Sooners’ dominant rushing attack.
Daniel Loper (Texas Tech, 2001-2004) was a stalwart on Texas Tech’s offensive line during the Mike Leach era. Loper’s pass protection skills were crucial in allowing the Red Raiders’ Air Raid offense to flourish.
Gabe Ikard (Oklahoma, 2010-2013) was not only a dominant force on the field but also excelled academically. Ikard was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and was named the Academic All-American of the Year in 2013.
Defensive Linemen
Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska, 2005-2009) was an absolute force on the defensive line. Suh’s dominant 2009 season, where he finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting as a defensive tackle, is still talked about as one of the best individual defensive performances in college football history.
Brian Orakpo (Texas, 2005-2008) was a disruptive force off the edge for the Longhorns. Orakpo won the Nagurski Trophy, Lombardi Award, and Hendricks Award in 2008, cementing his status as one of the best defensive players in Big 12 history.
Von Miller (Texas A&M, 2007-2010) redefined the hybrid linebacker/defensive end role in the Big 12. Miller’s exceptional speed and pass-rushing ability made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Still showing it near the end of his career as a rush end for the Buffalo Bills, Miller’s legacy is only growing.
Linebackers
Derrick Johnson (Texas, 2001-2004) was the heart of Texas’ defense during the early 2000s. Johnson won the Butkus Award and Nagurski Trophy in 2004, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Teddy Lehman (Oklahoma, 2000-2003) was a key part of Oklahoma’s dominant defense in the early 2000s. Lehman won the Butkus Award and was a two-time consensus All-American.
Jordan Lake (Baylor, 2006-2009) may not have received as much national attention, but his impact on Baylor’s defense was significant. Lake was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and helped lay the foundation for Baylor’s rise to prominence.
Defensive Backs
Roy Williams (Oklahoma, 1999-2001) played most of his career before 2000, but his impact on Big 12 football extended well into the new millennium. Williams’ “Superman” play against Texas in 2001 remains one of the most iconic moments in Big 12 history.
Terence Newman (Kansas State, 1999-2002) was a lockdown corner for the Wildcats. Newman won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back in 2002 and was a crucial part of Kansas State’s success during that period.
Earl Thomas (Texas, 2008-2009) only played two seasons for the Longhorns, but his impact was significant. Thomas’ ball-hawking skills and versatility made him a key part of Texas’ 2009 team that reached the national championship game.
Special Teams
Mason Crosby (Colorado, 2003-2006) was one of the most reliable kickers in Big 12 history. Crosby’s powerful leg allowed him to attempt and make field goals from incredible distances, giving Colorado a unique weapon.
Daniel Sepulveda (Baylor, 2003-2006) won the Ray Guy Award as the nation’s top punter twice during his career at Baylor. Sepulveda’s ability to flip field position made him a valuable asset for the Bears.
Jeremy Maclin (Missouri, 2007-2008), while primarily known as a receiver, was also one of the most dangerous return specialists in Big 12 history. Maclin’s speed and elusiveness made him a constant threat to score on special teams.
Also Read:
The Best Players in the SEC Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the Big Ten Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the ACC Conference Since 2000
The Big 12 Conference has consistently produced top-tier talent across all positions since 2000. While this list highlights some of the standout performers, it’s by no means exhaustive. The conference’s rich tradition of excellence has seen numerous players make significant impacts both in college and at the professional level.
What sets many of these players apart is not just their individual achievements, but their contributions to team success. Many led their teams to Big 12 conference championships, BCS bowl appearances, and even national title games. Their performances often defined seasons and careers, creating lasting memories for fans across the heartland and beyond.
