Big-12 newcomer Utah is the preseason favorite. The Utes finished 8-5 in their final season as a member of the Pac-12 and were without standout quarterback Cam Rising due to a knee injury. He returns for the new season.

That’s Utah coach Kyle Whittingham who feels confident heading into the season.

Whittingham made hs comments at Big-12 Media Days in Las Vegas. Kansas State is picked for second but no Wildcat player made the preseason all-conference team.

That’s K-State coach Chris Klieman (kly-mun) who says preseason polls are meaningless.