Big 12 Football Week 1: Full TV Schedule, Announcers, and Times for Iowa Fans
Big 12 football kicks off its 2026 season with 15 games in Week 1, and Iowa fans have plenty of reasons to tune in. While the Iowa Hawkeyes play in the Big Ten, the Big 12 features several regional matchups and former conference rivals that will capture attention across the state.
The marquee games this week include Colorado at Georgia Tech, Baylor versus Auburn, Oklahoma State against Tulsa, and Oregon State facing Houston. Each game brings its own storylines, from new coaching regimes to quarterback battles that could shape the season.
Here is the complete breakdown of every Big 12 Week 1 game, including TV channels, kickoff times, and the announcers calling the action. All times are listed in Central Time for Iowa viewers.
What Big 12 games should Iowa fans watch in Week 1?
The most compelling Big 12 matchups this week offer a mix of traditional power programs and intriguing non-conference tests. Colorado's trip to Georgia Tech gives Deion Sanders' squad a chance to prove itself on the road against an ACC opponent.
Baylor versus Auburn brings SEC versus Big 12 action, always a fan favorite. Oklahoma State opens against Tulsa in an in-state rivalry that carries bragging rights across Oklahoma. Oregon State's move to the Big 12 gets its first test against Houston in a conference clash.
Thursday, September 3 Big 12 football games
Week 1 opens on Thursday night with two games that set the tone for the weekend. Eric Rothman handles play-by-play with Doc Holliday providing analysis for the first matchup. Matt Barrie and Chase Daniel call the second game, offering insight from Daniel's experience as a former college quarterback.
Pete Sousa and Leger Douzable round out Thursday's broadcast crew for the late game.
Friday, September 4 Big 12 football games
Friday night features a single Big 12 contest with Mark Neely on play-by-play and Jeff Woody providing analysis. Woody brings local perspective as a former Iowa State Cyclone, making this broadcast particularly relevant for Iowa viewers.
Fans can check their local listings or streaming services to catch the action.
Saturday, September 5 Big 12 football games
Saturday delivers the bulk of the Week 1 slate with 12 games spread across the day. Anish Shroff and Andre Ware open the afternoon, followed by J.B. Long, Mike Golic Jr., and Coy Wire on the next broadcast.
Shawn Kenney and Todd Doxzon handle the early afternoon slot, while Joe Tessitore and Jesse Palmer bring their experience to the featured matchup. Tim Brando and Devin Gardner call one of the premier games, with Mike Corey and Barrett Brooks on another.
Dan Hellie and Robert Smith provide commentary for the late afternoon window. Mark Neely and Jeff Woody return for a second game, joined by Pete Sousa and Leger Douzable on another broadcast. Chris Sylvester and Jordan Reid, plus James Westling and Michael Bumpus, round out the evening slate.
How can Iowa fans watch Big 12 football this week?
Big 12 games are available across ESPN networks, FOX, FS1, and streaming platforms. Fans looking for comprehensive coverage can find most games on traditional cable or satellite packages, with select matchups available through streaming services that carry sports channels.
For those without cable, several streaming options offer free trials that cover the full Week 1 schedule.
Why Big 12 football matters to Iowa sports fans
Iowa's connection to the Big 12 runs deep. Iowa State competed in the conference before the 2010 realignment, and many Iowa fans still follow former conference foes closely. The conference's emphasis on offensive football and competitive balance makes for entertaining matchups week after week.
With several games featuring teams within driving distance of Iowa, including Kansas, Kansas State, and Oklahoma State, the Big 12 remains a regional draw for sports fans across the state.
Frequently asked questions about Big 12 Week 1
What time do Big 12 games start on Saturday?
Saturday games begin in the early afternoon and run through the evening, with kickoff times ranging from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time depending on the network and matchup.
Where can I stream Big 12 football games?
Most Big 12 games stream on ESPN+, FOX Sports app, or through cable provider apps. Several streaming services offer free trials that include sports channels carrying Big 12 games.
Are any Big 12 teams ranked in the preseason polls?
Several Big 12 programs received preseason recognition, with Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah among those expected to contend for the conference title. Official rankings will be updated after Week 1 results.
For Iowa fans, the Big 12 season offers a full weekend of quality football with familiar regional rivalries and national storylines. Check local listings for the games available in your area and enjoy the opening week of college football.