MANHATTAN — Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman emphasized the need for improvement across all facets of the game following the Wildcats’ close victory at Tulane last week. The team delivered a strong performance, with quarterback Avery Johnson steering an impressive second-half offense, the defense effectively countering one of the strongest passing attacks in the nation, and special teams making significant contributions.
Dylan Edwards played a pivotal role, scoring the team’s first lead with a spectacular 71-yard punt return touchdown early in the second quarter, putting K-State ahead 14-7.
K-State built on its halftime lead with two extended scoring drives. The first culminated in a 9-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to tight end Brayden Loftin, while the second featured a 1-yard touchdown run by DJ Giddens.
On the defensive end, the Wildcats showcased solid performances, including a crucial end zone interception by Keenan Garber, effectively limiting Arizona’s explosive offensive plays from the previous week.
K-State finished the game with a total of 391 offensive yards compared to Arizona’s 324. Johnson completed 14 of 23 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 110 yards on 17 carries. Giddens contributed with an additional 86 rushing yards.
For Arizona, quarterback Noah Fifita managed to complete 26 of 42 passes for 268 yards, including 11 receptions by Tetairoa McMillan for 138 yards.
K-State’s victory was marked by a final score of 31-7, providing a solid lead as the team approaches its first Big 12 game against Brigham Young next Saturday.
In the latter stages of the game, K-State further extended its lead to 31-7 when Chris Tennant successfully kicked a 35-yard field goal, concluding a 46-yard scoring drive that took significant time off the clock.
The third quarter ended with K-State leading Arizona 28-7 after the Wildcats scored twice, including a rushing touchdown from DJ Giddens.
K-State’s productive night was highlighted by two touchdown passes to tight ends, reflecting a notable performance from that position.
Despite both teams showing similar statistics in the first half, K-State’s advantage came from Edwards’ remarkable punt return and Garber’s interception that halted an Arizona scoring attempt.
With a solid opening quarter, K-State tied the game at 7-7 after a 15-play, 75-yard drive ended in a touchdown pass from Johnson to Swanson.
K-State had won the coin toss and opted to defer, allowing Arizona to receive the opening kickoff. The atmosphere was further heightened by an annual Harley night event at the stadium, contributing to an electric environment ahead of the highly anticipated matchup.
With perfect weather conditions, K-State was ready to take the field, promising an exciting evening for both players and fans alike.