The Week 4 schedule features various Big 12 programs in exciting matchups. The highlight is undeniably Utah versus Oklahoma State, but there are other showcases worth monitoring. Kansas-West Virginia, Houston-Cincinnati, TCU-SMU, and Colorado-Baylor are among the more watchable games.
Big 12 talents around the nation will use these opportunities to increase their pre-draft stock. The road to the 2025 NFL Draft is a weekly journey that is crucial to the resume-building process. We've identified five talents in particular worth analyzing.
Wyatt Milum, OT, West Virginia
vs. Kansas defense
What To Look For: West Virginia offensive tackle Wyatt Milum is already garnering top-75 consideration. Milum was not credited with allowing a single sack or quarterback hit last year, and he's carried that form into this season. Fundamental strength and easy movement skills are at the forefront of his refined skill set.
Milum and the Mountaineers have a difficult matchup against Kansas on Saturday. Jayhawks defensive end Jereme Robinson is a Senior Bowl watchlist player and has already recorded 2.5 sacks this season. Robinson is one of the more technically advanced players on Milum's schedule this season.
Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State
vs. Utah defense
What To Look For: No. 14-ranked Oklahoma State is a slight favorite over 12th-ranked Utah. It's one of the bigger showcases on Cowboys running back Ollie Gordon II's schedule. It's been a slower-than-expected start to his campaign as Gordon II was held under 50 rushing yards against Arkansas and Tulsa.
The Utes feature an outstanding front seven that is highlighted by linebacker Lander Barton. Barton is currently the 27th-ranked prospect in our latest Draft Network Top 100 rankings. He'll be excited to meet Gordon II in the hole.
A.J. Haulcy, SAF, Houston
vs. Cincinnati offense
What To Look For: Safety A.J. Haulcy returned to Houston for another campaign after leading the defense in tackles with 98 last year. Despite dipping into the transfer portal, new head coach Willie Fritz has appreciated Haulcy's leadership and experience this season. The former New Mexico transfer has already totaled 17 tackles, three pass breakups, and one interception in 2024.
Houston versus Cincinnati should be a tight encounter on Saturday. The Bearcats will attempt to control the clock through Corey Kiner, a speedy undersized running back who currently ranks fourth in the conference in rushing yards with 326. Haulcy will be tasked with being his usual productive self near the line of scrimmage.
Xzavier Henderson, WR, Cincinnati
vs. Houston defense
What To Look For: Bearcats wide receiver Xzavier Henderson currently ranks sixth in the Big 12 in receiving yards with 292. His 23 receptions are tied for second with Tetairoa McMillan and Brennan Presley, and he’s also added a touchdown to his offensive totals. Henderson is a Senior Bowl watchlist player.
Henderson has been the definition of consistency this season. He's recorded 83 receiving yards or more in every appearance and surpassed 100 yards against Miami (OH) and Towson. The Cougars secondary, including safety Haulcy, will attempt to eliminate him from Cincinnati's game plan.
Jimmy Horn Jr., WR, Colorado
vs, Kansas defense
What To Look For:
Travis Hunter is Shedeur Sanders' go-to receiver, but Jimmy Horn Jr. has come to life as a solid No. 2 in Colorado's passing attack. The quick-twitched slot receiver has already accumulated 14 receptions for 246 yards and a touchdown this year.
Horn Jr. exploded for 198 receiving yards in Colorado's season opener versus North Dakota State but was much quieter against Nebraska and Colorado State. This weekend's date with Baylor is expected to be a high-scoring affair. It would represent a great time for Horn Jr. to reemerge.
