No. 19 K-State (7-2, 4-2)
Kansas State had a tough loss last Saturday in a game which included a delay and heavy rainfall, ultimately plaguing its game plan. Despite the elements, K-State still led 19-10 in the fourth quarter and blew the lead, which was inexcusable no matter the conditions.
K-State’s run game, which was dominant early in the year, has struggled lately. Johnson ran a little bit against Houston, but moving forward his legs will be key for the Wildcats’ offense to succeed.
The Wildcats’ secondary continued being a point of concern in the loss. Houston quarterback Zeon Chriss went 11/11 for 100 yards and a touchdown.
Road to Arlington
The loss complicates the Wildcats’ run to the Big 12 Championship — but it’s not impossible.
First and foremost, K-State needs to win out to have a chance, as this would include a win and tiebreaker over Iowa State. After that, Colorado needs to suffer its second conference loss after K-State beat them on the road, earning the tiebreaker.
If Colorado were to lose, the victor would determine how many teams would be up for the tie in the second spot in the Big 12 championship, assuming BYU takes the No. 1 spot.
Many scenarios could play out for the rest of the season, but whatever happens, we know it will be chaotic in the wild Big 12.
What’s Next
After the bye, K-State has two home games against Arizona State and Cincinnati. K-State will need to continue being tough to beat at home before traveling to Ames to take on Iowa State in what could be a monumental Farmageddon game for Big 12 title hopes.
Record Prediction: K-State 9-3
W vs. Arizona State
W vs. Cincinnati
L @ Iowa State
Key Stats: K-State
Rush yds / g: 208 yds
Last 3 Rush yds / g: 143 yds
Pass TDs: 17 TDs
Avg. Kickoff return: 18.8 yds
Turnover margin: +2
Opp. QB pass yds / g: 246.8 yards
Time of Poss. / g: 29:51
Net avg. punt yds: 37.5 yds