ESPN Annouced The 2010 Big 12 Schedule: Games To Watch For

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

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First up, the Big 12 released its Big Monday schedule. It showcased the Wildcats in four of seven Big Monday games. One that features a perennial matchup between their in-state rivals Kansas Jayhawks.

So, once the Big 12 ESPN schedule was announced you could assume what team would be all over the television right?

The Wildcats are on seven primetime games, while the Jayhawks follow at six. It's no question; the committee thinks the Wildcats are coming out on top.

However, it's more to the Big 12 than Kansas State. You have Baylor, Kansas and Missouri as well. They make the Big 12 basketball conference strong.

With the schedule released, here are the games to watch for.

Saturday - January 8, TBA Every Game

It's always crucial to open Big 12 conference play with domination. Each team that is playing on the opening day will set the tone. Let's not get caught up in non-conference records because anybody can look good in non-conference--i.e. 2009-10 Texas Longhorns--but conference play exposes you.

Wednesday - January 12, 9pm Colorado at Kansas State

The Buffs' had a shot at defeating the Wildcats on their home court last season. However, they let it slip away in the second half. With almost the same roster and the tandem of Alec Burks and Corey Higgins, this game will be crucial.

They're highly-touted by me but unknown by a lot. This will be there chance to knock off a top-ranked team and show everyone they can play basketball in Colorado too.

Monday - January 17, 5:30pm Kansas State at Missouri

Last year, when these two battled it out the Wildcats came out the losers. The Wildcats knew they should have beaten the Tigers but the defensive intensity was too much for the Wildcat guards. Now, with a much experienced team, the Wildcats are ready to claim some revenge. Nothing is better than defeating a Big 12 foe on their home court. That's what the Wildcats are trying to do.

However, this will not be a blow-out game by any means. Each team has their fair share of talented players. It will be a hard-fought bout definitely worth tuning in to. 

Monday - January 17, 9:30pm Kansas at Baylor

Here is a matchup of two of the top teams in the Big 12 squaring off early in conference play. I assume each team will constantly battle for position because nobody wants to be left behind.

With Kansas, they brought in one of the best scorers. Baylor acquired the most versatile player in the 2010 class. When both of these teams collide be ready for a perennial showdown between two of the Big 12 best!

Wednesday - January 19, 9pm Texas A&M at Texas

Last season, the game went into overtime before the Aggies fell short to beating an undefeated team. However, later on in the season, the Aggies defeated the Longhorns in blowout fashion.

This upcoming season, this will be another fierce battle. The Lone Star Showdown is always a favorable game to watch. These two teams play hard, physical and until the last buzzer sounds off.

If you like tension and physical basketball, this is the game to watch.

Saturday - January 29, TBA Kansas State at Kansas

The Wildcats and Jayhawks played three times last season and Kansas came out the winners each time. But, the Jayhawks and Wildcats both lost three starters from a season ago. So this upcoming game will prove who the best team in the Big 12 is.

There hasn't been a team that has beaten the Jayhawks at home in a while. The Wildcats have talent and are looking to pull it off.

Monday - February 14, 9pm Kansas at Kansas State

Any and every time these two suit up against one another it will be a tough game. Especially since the Wildcat fan base has been re-energized by the Elite Eight run last season.

Coming into the "Octagon of Doom" will not be easy for the opposing Jayhawks. Not to mention, if the Wildcats lose on the road, this will be a must-win at home.

Saturday - February 26, Noon or 2pm Missouri at Kansas State

Next season, the Wildcats are going to be tough to defeat at home. Their fan base is re-energized, a talented roster and are a part of primetime games. 

However, the Wildcats had a tough time against the press of the Tigers. With an agile recruiting class and returning players, the Tigers will try to come in and stun the Wildcats at home.

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