When the Big 12 Softball schedule was released last fall, everyone was hoping that the Texas Tech series in Arizona would be a big one.
Nijaree Canady vs. Devyn Netz.
Emerging Programs vs. Old Guard.
But it’s even bigger that’s as important as Red Raiders vs. Wildcats thought they were. Texas Tech can at least earn a share of the Big 12 Championship in Arizona soil.
Yes, if the Red Raiders sweep the series, they can’t do anything worse than a tie due to the title and will have to win one of the last six conference games to win the championship perfectly.
Of course, if Wildcats sweeps, there is an opportunity for the two programs to share the crown. Honestly, the way Texas Tech and Arizona dominated the top two spots in the Big 12 softball power rankings this season, a shared title might be fitting.
It’s unlikely that either team would want that.
Expect high-level softball in Tucson this weekend. The TV network is certainly true. The first game in the series on Thursday is set to ESPN+, but the second game on Friday will be FS1, and the third game on Saturday has recently moved from ESPNU to ESPN2.
ESPN has also moved Saturday start times to Primetime, 6:30pm CST.
Visit this week’s Big 12 Power Rankings.
1. Texas Tech
Record: 34-9, 14-1 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 1
The Big 12 schedule hasn’t tested much of Texas Tech since its opening series against Oklahoma. However, the Red Raiders have done what the top team should have, won 12 big 12 games in a row, and recently wiped out Houston.
2. Arizona
Record: 36-7, 13-5 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 2
The Wildcats needed a sweep to accommodate Texas Tech, earning an impressive one in Kansas, earning three games with a total score of 28-4.
3. Iowa
Record: 20-18, 9-6 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 6
The big season of Cyclones was increased this weekend with a series victory at OSU. They didn’t just win two games. They defeated cowgirl ace Ruby Meylan in both victories.
4. Oklahoma
Record: 24-14, 6-7 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 3
The Cowgirl lost five of the six, including two at her home this weekend against Iowa. These losses could be in the opportunity for OSU to host NCAA regions.
5. Arizona
Record: 31-14, 11-7 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 4
The Sun Devils may just be hitting their path. They won seven of the last eight, including a Utah sweeping in Salt Lake City. Right-handed Kenzie Brown has a 1.20 run average earned after the Big 12 Canady.
6. UCF
Record: 25-18-1, 6-9 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 8
The Golden Knights won a massive series victory at BYU. Despite the up and down seasons, UCF’s adjusted RPI is 32. This is solidly present in the NCAA tournament and is trying to improve the seed.
7. BYU
Record: 25-12, 8-7 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 5
The Cougars only dropped their home series against UCF, winning in the third game. The series victory in the Home Turf would have been a surprise to the hopes of the NCAA Tournament.
8. Baylor
Record: 21-21, 7-8 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 7
The Bears were in Big 12 Goodbye Week, winning a victory over Texas San Antonio and two wins against Abilene Christian.
9. Yuta
Record: 12-30, 4-11 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 9
The UTES struggle continues. They were swept home by the state of Arizona.
10. Kansas
Record: 17-20, 4-11 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 10
The Jayhawks kept things close in their opening game against Arizona, losing only 2-0. However, the Wildcats looked for 15-3 and 11-1 in the final two games of the series.
11. Houston
Record: 20-19, 3-13 Big 12
Last week’s ranking: 11
The Cougars had a weekend like the Jayhawks, hanging toughly at the opening of the series against Texas Tech. The Red Raiders then dominated the last two games of the series.
Jenni Carlson: Jenni can be contacted at jcarlson@oklahoman.com. Like her at facebook.com/jennicarlsonok, follow her at @jennicarlsonok.bsky.social and twitter.com/jennicarlson_ok and buy today’s digital subscription to support her work and other Oklahoman journalists.
