The Oklahoma Sooners have won the Big 12 two years in a row, and though they're dealing with plenty of turnover this offseason - particularly offensively - they go into the 2017 season as the favorites to win the conference for a third year in a row. Here are three reasons why they'll do just that:
3) Bob Stoops' underrated greatness
Stoops has gotten somewhat of a bad rap for his in ability to win a national championship in the past 13 years, but OU's track record under him, particularly in conference play, is incredible. They've won the conference title an astonishing 10 times in the past 15 seasons - something no other team in the country has done in that time frame. Furthermore, Oklahoma is perhaps an even more impressive 101-8 at home under Stoops.
Expect any of that to change this year? No? Good.
2) Who will stop them in the Big 12?
The Big 12 has been one of the best conferences in the country over the past few years, but this year looks like it may be a down one for the conference. TCU isn't a contender anymore, Baylor is rebuilding, Texas is a year or two away and Oklahoma State overachieved in the biggest way last year (and they're still little brother). Plus, the Sooners get both TCU and West Virginia at home. It's hard to imagine anyone but Oklahoma winning the conference.
1) Baker Mayfield's greatness
Mayfield is the walk-on turned starter turned Heisman candidate, surpassing all of the expectations placed on him. He completed 71.2 percent of his passes for 3,669 yards, 38 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season. He didn't run as much as he did in his first year in Norman, but still picked up 143 yards and six touchdowns. He's now the completely unquestioned leader with Dede Westbrook, Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon all in the NFL, and he figures to only do better with that responsibility. His dual-threat ability, combined smart decision making and incredible accuracy, will make him a Heisman favorite.
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