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With a loss to TCU, Texas -- which had won four games in a row and had been contenders for a BCS bowl -- took a step back toward mediocrity in humiliating fashion.

Whether Texas is a legitimate Big 12 title contender is pretty much a giant question mark right now, as the team continues to mature through the 2012 season. But are they contenders? This week's HornsNation Roundtable considers.

Story | Conversation | September 20, 2012

When Oklahoma's new Big 12 schedule first came out, most everyone pointed to a rigid November stretch. But in reality, the three-game stretch that will determine whether the Sooners are contenders or pretenders begins this weekend.

Lane Kiffin showed his coaching chops last season, leading USC to a 10-2 record. But he'll be in the crosshairs in 2012, as Trojans fans will be expecting a championship contender.

Story | Conversation | March 04, 2012

With Matt Barkley's return, along with a host of others, has USC poised for a return to national title-contender status.

Story | Conversation | January 09, 2012

Seniors Mike Martin and Ryan Van Bergen led a resurgent unit that brought Michigan's defense back to what it should be.

Story | Conversation | December 05, 2011

A week after a defining win at Texas A&M, Texas was done in by sloppy play and a Heisman contender in the loss to Baylor.

Breaking down the top five storylines going into the Baylor game.

Story | Conversation | December 01, 2011

Baylor's Robert Griffin III isn't the first Heisman contender Texas' defense has faced, but he brings different challenges than the others.

USC went into Saturday's game at Arizona State hoping to make a statement. It did, proving that it's a ways removed from being a Pac-12 contender.

Story | Conversation | September 25, 2011

Those who already herald Matt Barkley as a Heisman contender must be blocking out his rough finish last season.

Story | Conversation | August 15, 2011