K-State 3-4 (2-2)
Kansas State had its most complete game of the season two weeks ago, beating TCU 41-28. The Wildcats had their bye last week, allowing them to get healthy and put in a good game plan against their rivals. K-State has won the two meetings against Kansas by a combined six points, and Saturday’s matchup looks like it could be another close one.
Offensive guard Devin Vass has taken off since his insertion into the Wildcats’ lineup. Vass wasn’t a starter at the beginning of the season, but worked his way into the lineup and has flourished. As a result, the ‘Cats run game has improved, which is vital to K-State’s success.
Linebacker Desmond Purnell is coming off his best game of the season, and maybe of his career, as he had two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown, two tackles for loss and a sack. Purnell, a Topeka native, is playing in his fourth Sunflower Showdown and is looking to remain undefeated against the Jayhawks.
Kansas 4-3 (2-2)
Kansas also had a bye week, but they are coming off a loss to highly ranked Texas Tech. The Jayhawks have an explosive offense with speedsters all over, but have been shaky on defense so far this season. KU will want to play in a shootout against the Wildcats, using home-field advantage to try and force a turnover and secure the win.
Wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson Jr. has been a massive impact transfer for the Jayhawks this season. Henderson has 530 yards and four touchdowns, and is capable of taking off the top of the defense with his blazing speed. KU lost its top three receivers last year, and Henderson has filled in nicely for quarterback Jalon Daniels.
The best defender for Kansas is LB Trey Lathan, a transfer from West Virginia. Lathan can make plays all over the field as he leads the team in tackles, has one and a half sacks on the season, and has also notched an interception. Lathan can force one of those turnovers that KU’s opportunistic defense will need Saturday.
Who to Watch:
KSU: OG Devin Vass, LB Desmond Purnell
KU: WR Emmanuel Henderson, LB Trey Lathan
Oct. 25 @ 11:00 a.m. on TNT
Prediction: K-State 31-28
Betting: K-State +2.5 (+120 ML) O/U 56.5
K-State
Rush yds per attempt: 4.5 yards
Sacks: 14
Turnover Ratio: +6
Third down percentage: 38.7%
KU
Rush yds per attempt: 4.5 yards
Sacks: 17
Turnover Ratio: +3
Third down percentage: 32.1%
