Big 12
Championship

Big 12 Championship History at AT&T Stadium

The Big 12 Championship Game has been played at AT&T Stadium more than any other venue in conference history. Since the game’s return in 2017 following a seven-year hiatus, the Arlington venue has hosted every edition. The 2026 game will mark the stadium’s 11th time hosting the Big 12’s biggest football game.

The championship game was originally held from 1996 to 2010, when the conference featured North and South divisions. After Nebraska and Colorado departed for other conferences, NCAA rules at the time required 12 members to stage a championship game, leading to a hiatus from 2011 to 2016. Rule changes in 2016 allowed conferences with fewer than 12 teams to hold championship games between their top two finishers, bringing the title game back in 2017.

Texas Tech’s 2025 Championship Season: A Program Transformed

The Texas Tech Red Raiders entered 2025 with championship aspirations after investing heavily in roster construction through the transfer portal. Head coach Joey McGuire, in his fourth season, delivered on the program’s ambitious goals by leading Texas Tech to a 12-1 record and its first conference title in 70 years.

The Red Raiders’ lone loss came at Arizona State when starting quarterback Behren Morton was sidelined. Once healthy, Morton led Texas Tech to eight consecutive victories to close the regular season, including a decisive 29-7 win over BYU in Lubbock during the regular season—a preview of the championship game domination to come.

Texas Tech’s defense ranked among the nation’s best in 2025, allowing just 12.3 points per game (best in the Big 12). The unit featured Jacob Rodriguez, whose elite play earned him Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors and put him in the conversation for national awards including the Butkus and Bednarik Awards.

BYU’s Breakthrough Season Falls Short

The BYU Cougars, under 10th-year head coach Kalani Sitake, put together an impressive 11-2 campaign in just their third season as Big 12 members. True freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier became the first freshman starting quarterback in program history and earned Big 12 Freshman of the Week honors six times.

However, both of BYU’s losses came against Texas Tech. In the championship game, Bachmeier suffered an ankle injury on the opening drive that limited his mobility for the remainder of the contest. After leading an impressive 90-yard touchdown drive to open the game, BYU was held scoreless the rest of the way as the Red Raiders’ defense took control.

AT&T Stadium: The Championship Venue

AT&T Stadium offers one of sports’ most impressive settings for the Big 12’s title game:

• Capacity: Over 80,000 for football configurations
• Retractable Roof: Weather protection for December conditions
• Video Board: Iconic center-hung display spanning 160 feet wide
• Location: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX—centrally located between Dallas and Fort Worth
• Amenities: Premium seating, world-class dining, and extensive hospitality options

The stadium has also hosted Super Bowls, College Football Playoff games, the Cotton Bowl Classic, and countless other major events, making it one of America’s premier sports venues.

College Football Playoff Implications

The Big 12 Championship carries enormous postseason significance. As one of the Power Five conferences, the Big 12 champion receives an automatic bid to the 12-team College Football Playoff. The 2025 champion Texas Tech earned the No. 4 seed and a first-round bye, advancing directly to the quarterfinals at the Capital One Orange Bowl.

For 2026, the stakes remain the same: win the Big 12 Championship, and you’re in the playoff with a chance to compete for the national title. This automatic qualification makes every Big 12 Conference game meaningful, as positioning for the championship game directly impacts playoff seeding and postseason success.

Travel Information for AT&T Stadium

Getting to Arlington

• By Air: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is approximately 15 miles away; Dallas Love Field (DAL) is about 20 miles from the stadium
• By Car: AT&T Stadium is accessible via I-30, located between Dallas and Fort Worth
• Parking: Multiple lots surround the venue; advance purchase recommended for championship events
• Rideshare: Designated pickup and drop-off zones available around the stadium perimeter

Accommodations

The Arlington Entertainment District features hotels within walking distance of the stadium, including the Live! by Loews Arlington Hotel adjacent to Texas Live! The broader Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex offers thousands of lodging options across all price ranges, from budget-friendly chains to luxury accommodations.

Big 12 Championship Game Winners

The Big 12 Championship Game has crowned 24 champions since its inception in 1996. Oklahoma leads all programs with 11 championship game victories, followed by Texas with four. The 2025 title was Texas Tech’s first Big 12 Championship appearance and victory.

Programs that have never appeared in a Big 12 Championship Game include Arizona, Cincinnati, Houston, Kansas, UCF, Utah, and West Virginia—any of whom could break through in 2026.

Big 12 Championship 2026: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Big 12 Championship Game?

The 2026 Big 12 Championship Game is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 2026. The game will be played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kickoff time and television broadcast details will be announced closer to the event as the season progresses.

Where is the 2026 Big 12 Championship being played?

The 2026 Big 12 Championship will be held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The venue has hosted the Big 12 Championship Game since 2017 and is contracted to continue hosting through 2030. The stadium seats over 80,000 fans and features a retractable roof.

Which teams will play in the 2026 Big 12 Championship?

The two teams that finish with the best conference records during the 2026 Big 12 regular season will meet in the championship game. Since the Big 12 plays a round-robin schedule where every team faces every other team, the championship matchup features the two highest-finishing programs based on conference record.

Who won the 2025 Big 12 Championship?

Texas Tech won the 2025 Edward Jones Big 12 Football Championship, defeating BYU 34-7 on December 6, 2025. It was the Red Raiders’ first Big 12 title and first outright conference championship since 1955. Linebacker Ben Roberts was named Most Outstanding Player with two interceptions.

How many teams are in the Big 12 Conference?

The Big 12 Conference currently has 16 member institutions for football. The conference expanded significantly in recent years, adding Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah from the Pac-12 Conference in 2024. Other recent additions include BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF.

Does the Big 12 Champion make the College Football Playoff?

Yes, the Big 12 Championship winner receives an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff as one of the five highest-ranked conference champions. In the 12-team CFP format, the top four conference champions earn first-round byes. Texas Tech earned the No. 4 seed and a bye in 2025 after winning the Big 12.

Where can I buy Big 12 Championship 2026 tickets?

Tickets for the 2026 Big 12 Championship are available through our verified resale marketplace. We connect fans with authenticated tickets from trusted sellers, and all prices are all-inclusive with no hidden fees. Every transaction is secure and backed by our buyer protection guarantee.

What is the bag policy at AT&T Stadium?

AT&T Stadium enforces a clear bag policy for all events including the Big 12 Championship. Approved bags must be clear plastic or vinyl and no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. Small clutch purses approximately the size of a hand are also permitted. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items following inspection.

Is there a 2027 Big 12 Championship announced?

No official details have been announced for the 2027 Big 12 Championship Game at this time. The conference is under contract to play the championship game at AT&T Stadium through 2030. Check back for updates as schedule information becomes available following the 2026 season.

How does Big 12 Championship tiebreaker work?

When teams finish with identical conference records, the Big 12 uses a series of tiebreakers: head-to-head results, win percentage against common conference opponents, combined win percentage in conference games of all conference opponents, total wins, and finally analytics rankings. If necessary, a coin flip determines the outcome.

What time do gates open for the Big 12 Championship?

Gates at AT&T Stadium typically open two to three hours before kickoff for major events like the Big 12 Championship. This allows fans time to explore the venue, visit concessions, and find their seats before game time. Exact gate opening times are announced closer to the event.

Are Big 12 Championship resale tickets legitimate?

Yes, tickets purchased through reputable resale marketplaces are legitimate. Our marketplace verifies all sellers, guarantees ticket authenticity, and provides buyer protection on every transaction. With over 20 years in business and top ratings on Trustpilot, fans can purchase with complete confidence.

What are the best seats for the Big 12 Championship?

AT&T Stadium offers excellent sightlines throughout the venue. Midfield seats between the 40-yard lines provide the best overall view of the action. Lower-level seats offer proximity to the field, while upper-level seats provide a panoramic perspective. The massive video board ensures everyone can see replays regardless of location.

Can I tailgate before the Big 12 Championship?

Yes, tailgating is permitted in designated parking lots around AT&T Stadium before the Big 12 Championship. The Big 12 also hosts official fan fest activities on championship weekend, including entertainment, food vendors, and school-specific experiences in the hours leading up to kickoff.

How do I get to AT&T Stadium from the airport?

From DFW International Airport, AT&T Stadium is approximately 15 miles southeast via TX-360 South. From Dallas Love Field, take I-30 West for about 20 miles. Rideshare services, rental cars, and some shuttle services are available from both airports. Plan extra travel time on game day due to increased traffic.