UCF Football Snubbed From 2026 Preseason All-Big 12 Teams

Entering a pivotal year for both UCF and head coach Scott Frost, the team has been focused on winning, as apparent by the Knights' press conferences throughout the offseason.

However, many sports media outlets don't feel too strongly about UCF, including the Big 12 Conference itself.

On Monday afternoon, the conference released its official Preseason All-Big 12 teams, with zero Knights being recognized.

Among the top award recipients were BYU running back LJ Martin (Offensive Player of the Year), Texas Tech defensive lineman A.J. Holmes Jr. (Defensive Player of the Year), and Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker  (Newcomer of the Year).

While it will be difficult to capture any of those three awards, it definitely remains possible, as Alonza Barnett III has a good opportunity to compete for the newcomer award.

Barnett, who led James Madison to a College Football Playoff bid last season, should solve the inconsistencies UCF has had at the QB position over the past few years.

The former Dukes standout threw for 273 yards passing, 45 yards rushing and three total touchdowns in his CFP appearance, scoring 34 points on an Oregon defensive unit that shutout the Big 12 champion Red Raiders in the following round.

Throughout the game, Barnett displayed his ability to extend plays and push the ball downfield, using his arm strength and escapability to keep his team in it.

Unfortunately, Barnett's lingering injuries have kept him sidelined throughout the offseason, but the UCF coaching staff has said that keeping him out is a precautionary measure, and the team is protecting its investment.

With UCF, Barnett is surrounded by different types of weapons on the outside, including Waden Charles, Josh Derry, and Dylan Wade.

Wade, UCFs record-setting tight end is one of the top pass catchers returning to the conference this upcoming season.

His 43 receptions, 523 receiving yards and five touchdowns, set program records for his position, while he leads the Knights as an 88 overall in College Football 27.

In the Big 12's predictions, Texas Tech tight end Terrance Carter Jr. was picked to be an all-conference performer, as he posted similar numbers to Wade's last season.

While Carter is definitely one of the top tight ends in the conference, Wade's ability to stretch the field and make dynamic plays could help him rival the Red Raiders pass catcher for the honor.

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