We've ranked the Big 12's best players before the season. We've done it after the season.
Time for a midseason checkup.
Here's the next round of my top-25 list, which we'll be revealing throughout the week. Here's more on my criteria.
6. Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State: Blackmon has been outstanding this season, but he has fallen off his perch as the Big 12's top player as the OSU offense has utilized its receiver depth. The only reason his looks have fallen is because OSU's offense is good enough for it to happen. The Cowboys are still second nationally in total offense. Blackmon has 608 receiving yards (fourth in the Big 12) and his 53 catches are good for third in the conference.
7. Frank Alexander, DE, Oklahoma: Alexander is on the short list for Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, leading the Sooners with 6.5 sacks, 9.5 tackles for loss, four pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble. He's keyed the Sooners' four-end package on the defensive line. He's always had the physical skills, but he's finally blossoming into a star.
8. Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State: Brown walked into Kansas State's defense and has revitalized it with his speed and tackling skill. He has 45 stops with 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and an interception.
9. Henry Josey, RB, Missouri: Josey began the season as Missouri's No. 3 running back. Through six games, he's been the Big 12's No. 1 running back. Josey leads the Big 12 in rushing with 717 yards -- 90 more yards than his nearest competition. This, despite having the 13th-most carries in the Big 12. His 9.69 (!) yards per carry is second nationally, and No. 1 on the list (Georgia Tech's Orwin Smith) has half as many carries as Josey.
10. Jake Knott, LB, Iowa State: Knott is back and even better as a junior in 2011 after leading the league in tackles last season. Despite being banged up, his 63 tackles lead the Big 12 once again. He also has an interception and 3.5 tackles for loss with two forced fumbles and a pass breakup.
The rest of the list:
