The Lone Team Without a Loss in the Big 12.

On Saturday afternoon, Iowa State’s no. 11 team was defeated by Texas Tech after allowing a late touchdown with 20 seconds left. After the defeat, the Cyclones’ overall record falls to 7-1, with a 4-1 record in Big 12 games. Following Iowa State’s defeat, BYU is now the sole undefeated team in the Big 12 and one of just six unbeaten teams nationwide. The Cougars are in sole possession of the top spot in the Big 12 standings.

On Saturday, Penn State, ranked No. 3, suffered their first home loss of the season to Ohio State, ranked No. 4. The FBS still has six teams that have not been defeated: Oregon, BYU, Miami, Indiana, Army, and Pitt. Pitt will play against SMU on the road Saturday night – the Mustangs are expected to win by a touchdown.

Iowa State’s defeat is not ideal for the Big 12’s chances of having two teams in the College Football Playoff, but it does increase BYU’s likelihood of reaching the conference championship game. Even with a November loss, BYU is still in a strong position to compete in Arlington.

Two Big 12 teams still have a chance to make the College Football Playoff. Should Kansas State defeat Iowa State in the final regular-season game, the Big 12 could potentially send two teams to the field.

After Iowa State’s defeat, BYU is set to be the top-ranked Big 12 team in the upcoming College Football Playoff rankings.

BYU has the opportunity to determine their own fate in the race for the Big 12 title. If BYU wins every game remaining, no one can prevent them from securing a spot. BYU not only determines its own fate for the conference championship, but also for the College Football Playoff.