With three games remaining, Kansas State has suffered many setbacks but has made some progress in the second half of the season. Since the season opener in Ireland, the Wildcats have not had the start fans hoped for, with many believing the Wildcats have caught the Dublin Curse — the superstitious belief that the losing team in the Dublin game is destined to perform poorly for the rest of the season.
Looking back at the 2022 Dublin game, the Nebraska Cornhuskers lost and finished with a 4-8 record. Last season, Florida State was picked to play in Dublin before having a horrendous 2-10 season. Dublin Curse or not, the K-State community always supports the ‘Cats, despite not always being happy with the outcome.
Progressing through the season, though, K-State’s roster has improved — showing its true potential at times. Throughout the first half, the Wildcats fumbled situationally during certain games. The first four games — Iowa State, North Dakota, Army and Arizona — didn’t go as hoped, and while the Wildcats barely slid by North Dakota, it was way too close for comfort. Two weeks after Arizona, the ‘Cats traveled to Baylor. This game was a test for the lineup, but not one that they should’ve lost. Despite Baylor’s playmaking skillset, simple mistakes in hand-eye coordination were contributors to the Wildcats’ performance.
During these games, the team as a whole was not working together but instead working as individuals. K-State head coach Chris Klieman even said early in the season that he didn’t know the team’s identity. In the second half, however, the team is meshing together much better, making for a smoother rest of the season.
Entering the second half of the season, the team has shown more of its true game intelligence. Wins against Texas Christian University, along with a road win in the Sunflower Showdown, were major confidence boosters for K-State.
On the downside for the Wildcats, running back Dylan Edwards announced his departure from K-State and entered the transfer portal. His decision to redshirt and transfer adds to the stress of the Wildcats’ roster and skillset.
Adding to the Cats’ struggles, linebacker Austin Romaine will miss the final three games of the season after undergoing surgery for his wrist. Romaine has been trying to play through the injury by wearing a protective hook and later a club, but ultimately needed the procedure, ending his season early.
With Romaine sidelined, it’s unclear who will officially take over his role. Des Purnell is expected to move to middle linebacker, while Asa Newsom and Rex Van Wyhe are likely to see increased playing time. Gabe Powers may also get more snaps as the team adjusts its defensive lineup.
The Wildcats are now focused on salvaging the remainder of their season and improving over the final three games. They need two more wins to become bowl eligible, though they are not projected to play in a high-profile bowl with peak competition.
