The Top 10 Coaches in Big 12 History

The Big 12 Conference has been a breeding ground for some of the most influential and successful coaches in college football. Here's a detailed look at the top 10 coaches who have made significant impacts in Big 12 history, including the notable tenure of Lincoln Riley.

1. Bob Stoops (Oklahoma, 1999-2016) Bob Stoops set the gold standard for coaching in the Big 12. Taking over the Oklahoma Sooners, he led them to a national championship in 2000 and clinched 10 Big 12 championships. His teams were known for their balance of offensive firepower and defensive solidity, posting a 190-48 record in Big 12 play. Stoops' era is often cited as one of the most dominant in Oklahoma football history, making him a legendary figure in the conference.

2. Bill Snyder (Kansas State, 1989-2005, 2009-2018) Bill Snyder, fondly called the "Wizard of Oz," transformed Kansas State from a perennial loser into a consistent winner. His first stint resulted in two Big 12 titles, and his coaching career at K-State finished with a 215-117-1 record. Snyder's innovative recruiting and player development strategies have left a lasting legacy on how to build a program from the ground up.

3. Mack Brown (Texas, 1998-2013) Mack Brown's tenure at Texas included a national championship in 2005 and three Big 12 titles. His teams were known for their physical play and strategic approach, ending with a 158-48 record in the conference. Brown's leadership turned Texas into a national powerhouse, with his recruitment and on-field success setting a high bar for future Longhorn coaches.

4. Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State, 2005-present) Mike Gundy has been the face of Oklahoma State football for nearly two decades, leading the Cowboys to one Big 12 championship in 2011. His no-nonsense style and focus on both offensive innovation and defensive resilience have given Oklahoma State a 154-69 record. Gundy's longevity and consistent bowl appearances have made him one of the most respected coaches in the conference.

5. Lincoln Riley (Oklahoma, 2017-2021) Lincoln Riley's brief but impactful tenure at Oklahoma saw him win four consecutive Big 12 Championships. Known for his "Air Raid" offensive scheme, Riley mentored three Heisman Trophy winners (Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Jalen Hurts) during his time at OU. His record was an impressive 55-10, with his teams often reaching the College Football Playoff. Riley's innovative approach to offense and quarterback development has left a significant mark on Big 12 football. His move to USC after the 2021 season did not diminish his legacy at Oklahoma.

6. Gary Patterson (TCU, 2000-2021) Gary Patterson's impact at TCU, particularly after joining the Big 12 in 2012, was profound. His defensive strategies and leadership took TCU to a co-championship in 2014. With a 46-22 record in Big 12 play, Patterson's teams were known for their tenacity and strategic depth, making TCU a formidable opponent in the conference.

7. Art Briles (Baylor, 2008-2016) Art Briles revolutionized Baylor's football program, leading to two Big 12 championships in 2013 and 2014. His spread offense was one of the most explosive in the nation, contributing to a 65-37 record in conference games. Despite controversies that led to his departure, Briles' on-field success is undeniable.

8. R.C. Slocum (Texas A&M, 1989-2002) R.C. Slocum's time at Texas A&M during its Big 12 era included three conference championships. His teams were known for their defensive prowess, particularly in the late '90s, finishing with a 35-28 record in Big 12 play. Slocum's overall record at A&M was 123-47-2, reflecting his significant contribution to the Aggies' football legacy.

9. Mark Mangino (Kansas, 2002-2009) Mark Mangino is perhaps best remembered for leading Kansas to an Orange Bowl victory in 2008, marking one of the most significant achievements in Kansas football history. His coaching led to a Big 12 North Division title and a 12-1 season, finishing with a 50-48 record. Mangino's tenure showed how a strategic coach could elevate a program historically seen as underdogs.

10. Dana Holgorsen (West Virginia, 2011-2018) Dana Holgorsen brought an exciting, offensive-minded approach to West Virginia when they joined the Big 12. His teams were known for their explosive passing attacks, leading to multiple bowl appearances. With a 37-45 record in Big 12 games, Holgorsen's influence on offensive strategy in the conference was profound, even if his teams didn't win titles.

Legacy and Impact

The coaches listed here have not only shaped their respective teams but have also influenced the broader landscape of college football within the Big 12. From Stoops' championship pedigree to Snyder's program-building genius, each coach has contributed uniquely to the conference's competitive and strategic evolution.

Lincoln Riley, in particular, deserves mention for his rapid rise to prominence with an offensive philosophy that has influenced the tactical approach across college football. His time at Oklahoma was marked by not just wins but by a new era of offensive creativity and quarterback development, setting a high standard for future coaches in the Big 12.

These coaches have left legacies that include not just wins and losses but also the development of players, the implementation of innovative strategies, and the cultivation of team cultures that could compete at the highest levels. Their impact extends beyond their tenure in the conference, influencing how football is coached and played at both the collegiate and professional levels.

This list, while focused on the Big 12, underscores the rich history of coaching talent the conference has produced, each coach contributing to what has become one of college football's most exciting and competitive conferences. Their stories are a testament to the enduring impact of leadership, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in sports.

This article captures the essence of these legendary coaches' contributions to Big 12 football, focusing on their achievements, strategies, and lasting legacies within the conference.

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