In an exciting announcement from Frisco, Texas, two key players from the Cincinnati Bearcats football squad, offensive linemen Joe Cotton and Evan Tengesdahl, earned spots on the Preseason All-Big 12 team as determined by a vote from the league's media. This recognition highlights their exceptional talent and vital contributions to the team's success. Tengesdahl’s impressive performance has also garnered him Preseason All-America accolades from various prominent organizations, including the Walter Camp Football Foundation, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier athlete. Cotton, not to be outdone, received his own Preseason All-Big 12 honors from respected sports analysts Phil Steele and Athlon Sports, demonstrating the high regard in which both players are held within the collegiate football community.
The prowess of these linemen is well-documented, with Tengesdahl achieving an outstanding 82.8 PFF rating in the 2025 season, making him the highest-ranked guard in the Big 12 and sixth nationally. His remarkable skill contributed significantly to the Cincinnati offensive line's nomination as a semifinalist for the prestigious Joe Moore Award, an honor bestowed upon the nation's premier offensive line unit. Cotton also proved his mettle by not conceding a single sack throughout his inaugural season as a Bearcat, a testament to his steadfast protection. Together with fellow teammate Taran Tyo, Cotton and Tengesdahl form a formidable core that anchored a line known for its exceptional pass protection and run blocking, leading to the fewest sacks and tackles for loss in the Power Four conference in 2025. This stellar performance also propelled UC to a third-place national ranking in rushing yards per carry, averaging an impressive 5.7 yards.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Cincinnati Bearcats will be well-represented at the Big 12 Football Media Days in Frisco, with quarterback JC French, linebacker/safety Antwan Peek Jr., and offensive linemen Evan Tengesdahl and Taran Tyo slated to attend. While the defensive unit did not receive any preseason selections, the focus remains on the strength of the offensive line. The broader Preseason All-Big 12 team, reflecting the collective judgment of media members covering the league's 16 institutions, also recognized BYU's LJ Martin as the Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, Texas Tech's A.J. Holmes Jr. as the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, and Oklahoma State's Drew Mestemaker as the Preseason Newcomer of the Year. Texas Tech led the conference with seven player selections, followed by BYU with six, and Houston with three, showcasing the depth of talent across the Big 12. The consistent dedication and hard work of players like Cotton and Tengesdahl not only elevate their team but also inspire their peers to strive for excellence, embodying the spirit of competitive sportsmanship and achievement.
