K-State 1-3
Kansas State is coming off a much-needed bye week after its Friday night loss at Arizona. The Wildcat offense struggled to get much going throughout the game, and the defense was consistently gashed against the run. K-State got a reset after a vital bye, not only getting key players healthy but also addressing some issues on the team.
Quarterback Avery Johnson is going to be the key in every game for the Wildcats moving forward if they want any success. Johnson has had a solid year throwing the ball, but needs to use his unique ability with his speed to scare defenses. Using his legs to escape should take pressure off the offensive line unit, which has struggled up to this point in the season.
Defensive end Tobi Osunsanmi has developed into a key piece for K-State against both the pass and the run. Early on in Osunsanmi’s career, he was a primary player in pass rush situations, but this year, he has added weight and now can hold his own against the run. His ability to get after the quarterback and help in run defense will be vital for the Wildcats’ winning chances.
UCF 3-0
University of Central Florida is off to a 3-0 start under head coach Scott Frost and is coming off a big win over North Carolina last week. UCF started the season slowly, with a close win over Jacksonville State, but has recently played well on both sides of the football. The Knights have great speed on offense and will provide a tough challenge.
Quarterback Tayven Jackson has been good for UCF so far this year, throwing for 694 yards and three touchdowns. Jackson is accurate with the football and has good mobility, running for three touchdowns this year as well. Last year, running back R.J. Harvey was dominant for UCF, but with his departure to the NFL, the UCF running game has slowed down compared to a year ago.
Linebacker Lewis Carter is the UCF leading tackler with 19 on the season so far. K-State has struggled to run the football consistently this season, and if they want to do so successfully, the Wildcats will need to get its hands on Carter. Carter also has a sack on the season, so look for him to rush the quarterback from time to time.
