Big 12 football power rankings after spring portal closes: Did Wildcats get better?

The spring transfer portal window is officially closed and the Wildcats made a splash with one big recruit.

Oct 28, 2023; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats running back DJ Giddens (31) runs the ball up the middle against the Houston defense.
Oct 28, 2023; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats running back DJ Giddens (31) runs the ball up the middle against the Houston defense. | Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
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Houston is starting over in their second year in the Big 12 with new head coach Willie Fritz running the show this year. The Cougars were hit hard by the transfer portal losing 15 guys in the spring window and not bringing in anyone.

Houston was the first newcomer in 2023 to get a win against a Big 12 veteran. The Cougars have the ability to bring in talent, but with Fritz having no experience coaching in a power conference, players may want to see if he has what it takes before they think about transferring there.

The Cougars could take a small step forward with a new head coach in 2024, but they are still near the bottom of these rankings until they prove they can win consistently.