Kansas State football has shown a remarkable ability to bounce back from losses under coach Chris Klieman, a trend that continued in their recent game. On Saturday, the No. 25 Wildcats secured a significant 42-20 victory over No. 25 Oklahoma State in their Big 12 home opener at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
With this win, K-State improved its record to 4-1 overall and 1-1 in the Big 12, while Oklahoma State dropped to 3-2 and 0-2 in the conference.
Quarterback Avery Johnson had a standout performance, rebounding from a challenging outing against Brigham Young by accounting for five touchdowns—two rushing and three passing. He threw for 259 yards and added 60 rushing yards. Running back DJ Giddens contributed with 187 rushing yards and a notable 66-yard touchdown run. Wide receivers Jadon Jackson and Jayce Brown were also key contributors, with Jackson finishing with five catches for 55 yards and Brown recording four receptions for 78 yards and a touchdown.
The Wildcats amassed 559 total yards compared to Oklahoma State’s 490. The Cowboys struggled in the first half, settling for field goals when they had scoring opportunities and were hindered by a crucial interception thrown by Jacob Parrish shortly after halftime.
K-State is now set for a bye week before their next game against Colorado on October 12.
During the match, the Wildcats extended their lead when Johnson scored on a 13-yard run, making it 42-13 with 11:26 remaining. The third quarter ended with K-State leading 35-13, following Parrish’s interception that kept the Cowboys in check.
In the third quarter, freshman tight end Will Anciaux caught a 2-yard touchdown pass, bringing the score to 35-13. Earlier, veteran tight end Garrett Oakley also scored, marking the fourth tight end for K-State to reach the end zone this season.
After halting Oklahoma State’s opening second-half drive, Giddens broke through for a quick 66-yard touchdown, giving K-State a solid 28-13 lead. The Wildcats demonstrated a much-improved offense compared to their recent loss, scoring three touchdowns in the first half while defending effectively to limit the Cowboys to three field goals.
At halftime, K-State led 21-13. Significant plays included a 55-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Brown and a successful 19-yard touchdown pass to Oakley, both crucial in regaining momentum after an earlier interception by Johnson.
Overall, K-State’s defense adjusted well from previous performances, limiting Oklahoma State’s scoring opportunities, including one crucial missed field goal. The first quarter ended with K-State leading 7-3 after forcing the Cowboys into a field goal following an effective offensive drive.
With the predominant success of their offense and a robust defensive performance, Kansas State solidified its standing in the Big 12 with this impressive home victory.