2021 Kansas State Wildcats football team

The 2021 Kansas State Wildcats football team represented Kansas State University during the 2021 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Wildcats played their home games at the Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium in Manhattan, Kansas, and competed in the Big 12 Conference. The team was led by third-year head coach Chris Klieman.

2021 Kansas State Wildcats football
Texas Bowl champion
Texas Bowl, W 42–20 vs. LSU
ConferenceBig 12 Conference
Record8–5 (4–5 Big 12)
Head coach
Offensive coordinatorCourtney Messingham (3rd season)
Defensive coordinatorJoe Klanderman (2nd season)
Base defense3–3–5
Home stadiumBill Snyder Family Football Stadium
(capacity: 50,000)
Uniform
2021 Big 12 Conference football standings
ConfOverall
Team W L  W L 
No. 7 Oklahoma State y  8 1   12 2  
No. 5 Baylor y$  7 2   12 2  
No. 10 Oklahoma  7 2   11 2  
Iowa State  5 4   7 6  
Kansas State  4 5   8 5  
West Virginia  4 5   6 7  
Texas  3 6   5 7  
TCU  3 6   5 7  
Texas Tech  3 6   7 6  
Kansas  1 8   2 10  
Championship: Baylor 21, Oklahoma State 16
  • $ Conference champion
  • y Championship game participant
Rankings from AP Poll

Previous season

The Wildcats finished the 2020 regular season 4–6 and 4–5 in Big 12 play to finish in seventh in the conference.[1] They removed themselves from consideration to play in a post season bowl game.[1][2]

Preseason

Big 12 media poll

Big 12 media poll[3]
Predicted finish Team Votes (1st place)
1Oklahoma365 (35)
2Iowa State351 (4)
3Texas273
4Oklahoma State266
5TCU255
6West Virginia185
7Kansas State163
8Baylor124
9Texas Tech103
10Kansas39

Schedule

The 2021 schedule consisted of 7 home, 5 away, and 1 neutral site game in the regular season.

DateTimeOpponentRankSiteTVResultAttendance
September 4, 202111:00 a.m.vs. Stanford*FS1W 24–728,668
September 116:00 p.m.No. 8 (FCS) Southern Illinois*ESPN+W 31–2347,628
September 181:00 p.m.Nevada*
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS
ESPN+W 38–1748,768
September 256:00 p.m.at Oklahoma StateNo. 25ESPN+L 20–3151,444
October 22:30 pmNo. 6 Oklahoma
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS
FOXL 31–3747,690
October 166:30 p.m.Iowa State
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS (rivalry)
ESPN2L 20–3348,363
October 2311:00 a.m.at Texas TechFS1W 25–2452,874
October 302:30 p.m.TCUdagger
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS
ESPNUW 31–1244,339
November 611:00 a.m.at KansasFS1W 35–1030,611
November 1311:00 a.m.West Virginia
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS
FS1W 34–1743,932
November 204:30 p.m.No. 11 Baylor
  • Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium
  • Manhattan, KS
FS1L 10–2043,857
November 2611:00 a.m.at TexasFOXL 17–2275,072
January 4, 20228:00 p.m.vs. LSU*ESPNW 42–20 52,207

[4]

Game summaries

Vs. Stanford

Allstate Kickoff Classic
1 234Total
Stanford 0 007 7
Kansas State 7 7010 24
  • Sources:
Pregame lineOver/under
K-State −353
Statistics[5]StanfordKansas State
First downs1415
Total yards233344
Rushing yards39200
Passing yards194144
Turnovers21
Time of possession32:5327:07
Team[6]CategoryPlayerStatistics
Stanford PassingTanner McKee15/18, 118 yards, 1 TD
RushingAustin Jones9 carries, 25 yards, 0 TD
ReceivingBrycen Tremayne5 catches, 62 yards, 1 TD
Kansas State PassingSkylar Thompson9/14, 144 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn13 carries, 128 yards, 1 TD
ReceivingPhillip Brooks3 catches, 81 yards, 0 TD

Kansas State began with a 15-point lead at halftime with performances by quarterback Skylar Thompson and running back Deuce Vaughn.[7] The Wildcats managed to score 24 points before allowing Stanford to put points on the board with 3:16 left in the game. Stanford coach David Shaw stated: "This game was not indicative of how hard we've played, how hard we've practiced and how well we practiced. Disappointing to me that we didn't go out there and execute better." Shaw is in his 11th season as Stanford's coach.[8]

Kansas State dominated on defense and Stanford's offense continued to make mistakes while not producing a strong running game performance. Kansas State defense only allowed 39 total rushing yards for the game.[9]

The Wichita Eagle reported that the stadium was mostly filled with Kansas State fans and that Kansas State significantly out-performed Stanford. Specifically, the paper published "The Kansas State football team opened its season with a statement victory on Saturday at AT&T Stadium."[7]

Stanford's next game is their sixth consecutive road game, traveling to play the USC Trojans. Kansas State will play at home in Manhattan against Southern Illinois.[10]

No. 8 (FCS) Southern Illinois

1 234Total
No. 8 (FCS) Southern Illinois 0 2300 23
Kansas State 14 737 31
  • Date: September 11
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 6:00 pm
  • Game attendance: 47,628
  • Game weather: 92, sunny, Wind South at 11 mph
  • Referee: Chris Tallent
  • TV announcers (ESPN+): Courtney Lyle (play-by-play), Brandon Weeden (color) and Shane Sparks (sideline)
  • Sources: ESPN Box Score[11] ESPN Team Stats[12]
Pregame lineOver/under
K-State −1755
StatisticsSouthern IllinoisKansas State
First downs1724
Total yards276380
Rushing yards100208
Passing yards176172
Turnovers34
Time of possession26:0433:37
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
Southern Illinois PassingNik Baker16/27 for 176 yards 0TD, 1 INT
RushingJavon Wiiliams Jr12 carries for 46 yards, 2 TD
ReceivingLandon Lenoir6 catches for 57 yards, 0 TD
Kansas State PassingSkylar Thompson3/4 for 96 yards, 1 INT
PassingWill Howard8/17 for 76 yards, 1 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn26 carries for 120 yards, 3 TD
ReceivingMalik Knowles4 catches 112 yards

Southern Illinois came in to the game with split #8/#9 rankings in the FCS. Before the game, SIU head coach Nick Hill said his team will focus on running: "We're gonna to try to esablish [sic] the line of scrimmage and run the ball, but ultimately it's our job to move the ball, whatever you've gotta do."[13] SIU defeated Southeast Missouri State the previous week by a score of 47–21.[9]

Kansas State was leading 21–3 in the second quarter when starting quarterback Skylar Thompson left the game with an injured knee. With backup quarterback Will Howard stepping in, SIU pulled ahead at halftime 23–21 with multiple mistakes for Kansas State.[14] SIU failed to score in the second half and Kansas State was able to pull ahead to win 31–23.[15]

Bright spots for Kansas State include Deuce Vaughn's rushing touchdown with less than two minutes in the game and a forced fumble at the end to close out the game.[16] Highlights for SIU included Cornerback P.J. Jules returning a 41-yard interception for the team's first defensive touchdown since 2018, and safety Qua Brown produced a team-high nine tackles in the game.[15] Southern Illinois also forced three turnovers in a row against the K-State offense.[16]

After the game, plans seem to point to Howard taking the starting reigns like he did in the previous season. Coach Klieman said that he will be staying for the "foreseeable future" at K-State. In 2020, Howard led K-State to victories over Texas Tech, TCU, and Kansas.[14] SIU will host Dayton the next week in the first of fime home games.[15]

Nevada

1 234Total
Nevada 7 0100 17
Kansas State 7 10021 38
  • Date: September 18
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 1:00 pm
  • Game attendance: 48,768
  • Game weather: 86 degrees, sunny, west 6 mph
  • Referee: David Alvarez
  • TV announcers (ESPN+): Shawn Kenney, Brooks Barnett, and Shane Sparks
  • Sources: ESPN Box Score[17] | ESPN Team Stats[18]
Pregame lineOver/under
Nevada −1.549
StatisticsNevadaKansas State
First downs1422
Total yards331398
Rushing yards25269
Passing yards306129
Turnovers10
Time of possession29:0031:00
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
NevadaPassingCarson Strong27/40, 262 yards, 6.6 yds ave, 1 TD, 1 INT
RushingDevonte Lee10 carries, 24 yards, 2.4 yds ave, 1 td, long 6 yd
ReceivingElijah Cooks4 rec, 45 yards, 11.3 yards ave, 1 TD, long 24 yds
Kansas StatePassingWill Howard7/10, 123 yards, 12.3 yds ave, 1 TD, 0 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn23 carries, 127 yards, 5.5 yards ave, 1 TD, long 15 yds
ReceivingDaniel Imatorbhebhe1 for 68 yards, 68.0 yards ave, 1 TD, long 68 yds

In the week prior, Nevada completed their second win of the season by defeating Idaho State by a score of 49–10 and is at the top of the Mountain West Conference with a 2–0 record.[19] Oddsmakers go into the game considering the two teams to be well matched and expect a close game: both teams have combined to score 48.5 points against their opponents in two games and both teams have the same record of 2 wins and 0 losses.[20]

Nevada brought 6 foot 4 inch Carson Strong as their quarterback, who has been widely touted as a sought-after future quarterback for the National Football League. Kansas State defense is looking forward to the challenge. Coach Klieman's game plans include using the defensive line to put pressure on strong in the backfield and having the defensive backs "play the ball in the air" and go for interceptions.[21]

Kansas State spent most of the game on the ground, led by Deuce Vaughn with 127 yards and one touchdown. In this game, Sophomore Vaughn because the fastest in team history to achieve 1,000 career rushing yards in just 13 games. Kansas State ran the football 48 times and only made 13 passing attempts.[22]

Wildcat quarterback Jaren Lewis also got some time after three drives. Lewis completed 2 for 3 passes with 9 yards. Kansas Sate made a touchdown and field goal under his two drives. Kansas State led 17–7 at halftime, but Nevada tied the game 17–17 in the third quarter. It was in the fourth quarter when Kansas State made a clear statement for victory by scoring three touchdowns.[23]

Sophomore quarterback Will Howard rushed for 56 yards and 2 touchdowns. He did complete 7 of 10 passing attempts including a 68-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Imatorbhebhe on the second play of the game.[22]

Kansas State's defense allowed a season-high 331 yards, but only 25 on the ground. Nevada quarterback Carson strong wa sacked three times, one more than in their first two games combined. The final score was Kansas State 38, Nevada 17.[24]

Nevada's Carson Strong was successful in passing to nine different receivers. His 14-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Cooks tied the score at 17 in the third quarter. Nevada manage to tie the score up twice (7–7 and 17–17) but never held the lead.[25]

Kansas State improved to 3–0 with the win and reduced Nevada to throwing short instead of long. K-State Coach Klieman said, "We challenged the guys early in the week that we needed to take the next step as a football team. We were prepared for it. We were built for this."[26]

Nevada is idle next week but then travels to play Boise State on October 2.[25]

At Oklahoma State

1 234Total
No. 25 Kansas State 10 370 20
Oklahoma State 21 1000 31
  • Date: September 25
  • Location: Stillwater, OK
  • Game start: 6:00 p.m.
  • Game attendance: 51,444
  • Game weather: 86, sunny, 12 mph SW
  • Referee: Michael Vandervelde
  • TV announcers (ESPN+): Shawn Kenney, Ryan Leaf, and Shane Sparks
  • Sources: ESPN box score[27] ESPN team stats[28]
Pregame lineOver/under
+645
StatisticsOklahoma StateKansas State
First downs2512
Total yards481260
Rushing yards13762
Passing yards344198
Turnovers02
Time of possession35:0624:54
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
Oklahoma StatePassingSpencer Sanders22/34, 344 yards, 2 TD, 0 INT
RushingJaylen Warren27 attempts, 123 yards
ReceivingTay Martin9 catches, 100 yards, 1 TD
Kansas StatePassingJaren Lewis10/19 148 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
RushingWill Howard3 attempts, 28 yards
ReceivingDeuce Vaughn5 receptions, 73 yards, 1 TD

In the previous week, Oklahoma State narrowly defeated Boise State 21–20 in the face of a few injuries in their starting lineup.[29] Oklahoma State was ranked #22 in the Coaches Poll, and Kansas State was ranked #25 in the AP Poll.[30]

Kansas State's defense prevented Oklahoma state from scoring any points in the second half of the game, but the 31 points scored in the first half was enough for the Cowboys to win. Kansas State switched quarterbacks during the game as second-string Will Howard started the game but was injured and Jaren Lewis took over the bulk of the duties. Oklahoma state won 31–20.[31]

No. 6 Oklahoma

1 234Total
No. 6 Oklahoma 3 101410 37
Kansas State 7 3714 31
  • Date: October 2
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 2:30 p.m.
  • TV announcers (FOX): Aaron Goldsmith (play-by-play) and Brock Huard (analyst)
  • Sources: ESPN box score[32] ESPN team stats[33]
Pregame lineOver/under
+10.551.5
StatisticsOklahomaKansas State
First downs2221
Total yards393420
Rushing yards132100
Passing yards261320
Turnovers11
Time of possession27:1832:42
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
OklahomaPassingSpencer Rattler22/25 for 243 yards, 9.7 avg, 2 TD, 1 INT
RushingKennedy Brooks15 car, 92 yds, 6.1 avg, 1 TD, 28 long
ReceivingMarvin Mims4, 71 yds, 17.8 avg, 0 TD, 50 long
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson29/41 for 320 yards, 7.8 avg, 3 TD, 0 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn15 car, 51 ydds, 3.4 avg, 0 TD, 13 long
ReceivingDeuce Vaughn10, 104 yards, 10.4 avg, 1 TD, 33 long

Skylar Thompson returned from injury to start the game at quarterback and developed a 7–3 lead early on, keeping the score tied at 10–10 until just before halftime when Oklahoma managed a field goal to pull ahead 13–10.[34]

In the third quarter, Kansas State executed an onside kick and recovered the ball. After video review, the call on the field was confirmed as a Kansas State recovery. OU head coach Lincoln Riley then challenged the replay call for double-touching, claiming that Kansas State kicker Zentner contacted the ball twice while kicking it. The challenge was upheld after a second review and Oklahoma was given the ball at midfield.[35] The second replay review was considered "controversial" and such challenges after video review are rare.[36] This and another officiating call reversal were critical to the Oklahoma victory: final score Oklahoma 37, Kansas State 31.[37]

Iowa State

Farmageddon
1 234Total
Iowa State 10 1076 33
Kansas State 7 0013 20
  • Sources:ESPN box score[38] ESPN team stats[39]
Pregame lineOver/under
+6.551
StatisticsIowa StateKansas State
First downs1921
Total yards418342
Rushing yards210136
Passing yards208206
Turnovers01
Time of possession33:4526:15
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
Iowa StatePassingBrock Purdy22/25 for 208 yards, 8.3 avg, 1 TD
RushingBreece Hall30 for 197 yards, 6.6 avg, 2 TD
ReceivingJaylin Noel5 for 48 yards, 9.6 avg
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson15/23 for 206 yards, 9.0 avg, 2 TD, 1 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn18 for 99 yards, 5.5 avg
ReceivingPhillip Brooks3 for 54 yards, 18.0 avg, 1 TD

The 2021 annual rivalry known as "Farmageddon" began with Kansas State winning 15 of the last 16 games played in Manhattan, but the pattern failed to hold as Iowa State outperformed Kansas State on the field and on the scoreboard. Kansas State failed to score in the second and third quarter, and only managed 20 points to Iowa State's consisten performance to tack up a total of 33.

Iowa State's Breece Hall ran 75 yards for a touchdown on the first play of the game, and Iowa State held the lead for the remainder of the game. The Iowa State offensive line was given credit for not allowing any sacks and giving quarterback Brock Purdy time to work. Iowa state converted 9 of 15 third downs through the game. Kansas State allowed Iowa state to gain half of its passing yards after the catch.[40]

At Texas Tech

1 234Total
Kansas State 0 1096 25
Texas Tech 14 1000 24
  • Date: October 23
  • Location: Lubbock, TX
  • Game start: 11:00 am
  • Game attendance: 52,874
  • Game weather: 72 degrees, sunny, SW 15mph
  • Referee: Tutu Salaam
  • TV announcers (FS1): Tim Brando, Spencer Tillman
  • Sources:ESPN box score[41] ESPN team stats[42]
Pregame lineOver/under
+160.5
StatisticsTexas TechKansas State
First downs1417
Total yards317377
Rushing yards16981
Passing yards148296
Turnovers12
Time of possession24:5535;05
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
Texas TechPassingHenry Colombi10/17 for 148 yards, 8.7 avg, 0 TD, 1 INT
RushingSaRodorick Thompson11 fr 46 yards, 4.2 avg, 2 TD, 28 Long
ReceivingMyles Price4 for 64 yards, 16.0 avg, 0 TD, 40 Long
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson24/30 for 296 yards, 9.9 avg, 1 TD
RushingDeuce Vaughn15 for 52 yards, avg 3.5, 2 TD, 12 Long
ReceivingDeuce Vaughn7 for 68 yards, 9.7 avg, 1 TD, 26 Long

Texas Tech scored fast. On the second play of the game, Erik Ezukanma ran a 45-yard touchdown run. On the ensuing kickoff, Malik Knowles fumbled and Tyrique Matthews recovered the ball at the 23-yard-line which led the Red Raiders to be up 14–0. Texas Tech held a two-touchdown lead at halftime.[43]

The second half worked out much differently. Kansas State moved one step closer to bowl eligibility and improved its overall record to 4–3. Kansas State brought standout great individual performances from Skylar Thompson, Deuce Vaughn, Felix Anudike-Uzomah and a punt by Ty Zentner. Zentner's 63-yard punt put Texas Tech at its own 4. On the next play, Anudike-Uzomah tackled the ball carrier in the end zone for a safety. Texas Tech likely would have won the game without those two plays.[44]

“It would have been easy to quit the way the game started. After losing three straight games, starting the game like that was obviously not what we wanted. We easily could have folded. But guys kept on fighting. It speaks volumes about where we're at as a program and the type of players we have.” – Skylar Thompson[44]

The final score was 25–24, a one-point victory for Kansas State. Texas Tech responded by firing head coach Matt Wells with his current record of 5 wins and 3 losses.[45]

TCU

1 234Total
TCU 0 507 12
Kansas State 7 14010 31
  • Date: October 30
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 2:30 pm
  • Game attendance: 44,339
  • Game weather: 69 degrees, 8 mph, SW, Sunny
  • Referee: Michael Vandervelde
  • TV announcers (ESPNU): Mike Couzens, Dustin Fox
  • Sources: ESPN box score[46] ESPN team stats[47]
Pregame lineOver/under
−359.5
StatisticsTCUKansas State
First downs1716
Total yards340388
Rushing yards156146
Passing yards184242
Turnovers21
Time of possession30:4429:16
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
TCUPassingChandler Morris9/14, 111 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT
RushingKendre Miller14 for 102 yards, 0 TD, 61 long
ReceivingDerius Davis4 for 78 yards, 0 TD, 30 long
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson13/21 for 242 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn20 for 109 yards, 2 TFD, 42 long
ReceivingDaniel Imatorbhebhe2 for 90 yards, 1 TD, 73 long

Last season TCU won five of their final six games and were considered a contender for the conference championship—but now come to the game with only 3 wins and 4 losses (1–3 in conference play) and may not qualify for a bowl game. TCU's previous game was a 29–17 home loss to West Virginia with three turnovers gave up 229 rushing yards. The Horned Frogs have allowed 5.4 yards per run so far this season—second to last in the Big 12.[44]

Wildcat Felix Anudike-Uzomah set a new school and Big 12 record six sacks while also tying the NCAA single-game record. After a post-game stat adjustment, he was given credit for four sacks and two forced fumbles. TCU had two opportunities to score inside the 5 yard line, but the Kansas State defense held—the first time for the year that the Horned Frogs did not score while in the red zone.[48]

Kansas State took the lead in the first quarter and held it for the entire game. TCU managed to pull within 7–3 in the second quarter, but Kansas State made it 14–3 on the next series with a 42-yard run by Deuce Vaughn.[49]

TCU managed a safety and also produced some quality plays, including Kendre Miller on a 61-yard carry to the 2-yard line—but TCU could not complete the final two yards in four plays for a score. Their only score by the offense was a field goal. TCU did hold Kansas State scoreless in the third quarter.[48]

On Sunday after the game, TCU fired head coach Gary Patterson and will have Jerry Kill take over on an interim basis.[50]

At Kansas

Sunflower Showdown
1 234Total
Kansas State 14 777 35
Kansas 0 370 10
  • Date: November 6
  • Location: Lawrence, KS
  • Game start: 11:00 am
  • Game attendance: 30,611
  • Game weather: 53 degrees, sunny, winds SW at 10mph
  • Referee: Scott Campbell
  • Television network: FS1
Pregame lineOver/under
−23.556.5
StatisticsKansasKansas State
First downs1522
Total yards274504
Rushing yards88242
Passing yards186262
Turnovers00
Time of possession31:3828:22
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
KansasPassingJalon Daniels13/19, 105 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
RushingDevin Neal19 rushes, 62 yards, 0 TD
ReceivingKwamie Lassiter II6 rec, 82 yards, 1 TD
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson19/24, 244 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn11 rushes, 162 yards, 3 TD
ReceivingMalik Knowles3 rec, 94 yards, 1 TD

Coming into the game, the Jayhawks had only managed one win. Kansas State averaged 27.5 points per game, while KU had averaged 15.8, but the Wildcats turned the ball over 12 times in the season so far to KU's 10 turnovers.[54] The Jayhawks came off a 55–3 loss against #15 Oklahoma State, but just two weeks prior had a 10–0 lead on Oklahoma at halftime.[55]

Kansas State scored first and held the lead for the remainder of the game. Deuce Vaughn had a 30-yard carry and ended the drive with a touchdown. The Jayhawks responded with a field goal to put the score 7–3 in the first quarter. Two plays later Kansas State scored on a 68-yard touchdown pass.[56]

Kansas State won the game 35-10 and dominated in other statistics along the way: The Wildcats managed 10 yards per play in the first three quarters,[57] went 6–9 on third downs and piled on 499 total yards[53]

West Virginia

1 234Total
West Virginia 0 377 17
Kansas State 14 3710 34
  • Date: November 13
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 11:00 a.m.
  • Game attendance: 43,932
  • Game weather: 36 degree, wind S 4mph, Sunny
  • Referee: Brandon Cruse
  • TV announcers (FS1): Eric Collins, Robert Smith
  • Sources: ESPN box score[58] ESPN team stats[59]
Pregame lineOver/under
-647.5
StatisticsWest VirginiaKansas State
First downs2015
Total yards345299
Rushing yards77161
Passing yards268138
Turnovers30
Time of possession26:3233:28
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
West VirginiaPassingJarret Doege27/45, 268 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT
RushingLeddie Brown20 carries, 85 yards, 0 TD
ReceivingBryce Ford-Wheaton5 catches, 67 yards, O TD
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson14/19, 138 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn25 carries, 121 yards, 1 TD
ReceivingPhillip Brooks5 catches, 62 yards, 0 TD

West Virginia arrived at Kansas State with what was called a "must-win game" but failed to produce the victory. The loss endangered the team's chance for a bowl game appearance for the season. The Mountaineers will need to beat the Kansas Jayhawks and Texas Longhorns to become bowl eligible.[60]

West Virginia's troubles began on the second play of the game, when Kansas State's Russ Yeast grabbed an interception from a pass that bounced off Winston Wright Jr. Later on, Kansas State's Ty Bowman blocked a punt that was picked up by teammate Marvin Martin who ran it in for a special teams touchdown.[61] Kansas State led 17–3 at halftime and held a 24–10 lead at the start of the fourth quarter.[62]

The fourth quarter saw Skylar Thompson convert on 4th-and 8 with a pass to Sammy Wheeler for 35 yards[63]

West Virginia managed an impressive 10-play 68 yard touchdown drive, which included a 4th-down conversion at the Wildcat 12 yard line.[62] The Mountaineers did manage to produce multiple successful fourth-down conversions.[64]

Kansas State's Deuce Vaughn ran for 121 yards and a touchdown, while Skylar Thompsan completed just 138 yards passing—but that included a touchdown catch and a "crucial fourth-down grab" to Sammy Wheeler.[61]

Kansas State defeated West Virginia for the first time in six years.[60] Kansas State coach Klieman recognized that when he said, “This is a big-time win because we haven't had a whole lot of success against them.”[61]

No. 11 Baylor

1 234Total
No. 11 Baylor 7 1003 20
Kansas State 0 730 10
  • Date: November 20
  • Location: Manhattan, KS
  • Game start: 4:30 p.m.
  • Game attendance: 43,857
  • Game weather: 56 degrees, wind NE 7mph, Sunny
  • Referee: Derek Anderson
  • TV announcers (FS1): Aaron Goldsmith, Mark Helfrich
  • Sources: K-State Sports[65] ESPN team stats[66] ESPN box score[67]
Pregame lineOver/under
-2.550
StatisticsBaylorKansas State
First downs2212
Total yards387263
Rushing yards174105
Passing yards213158
Turnovers12
Time of possession35:5424:06
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
BaylorPassingBlake Shapen16-21, 137 yards, O TD, 0 INT
RushingTrestan Ebner11 carries, 72 yards, 1 TD
ReceivingTyquan Thornton5 catches, 75 yards, 0 TD
Kansas StatePassingSkylar Thompson15–29, 158 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT
RushingDeuce Vaughn11 carries, 129 yards, 1 TD
ReceivingMalik Knowles1 catch, 48 yards, 0 TD

In the previous week's game, Baylor defeated the then-ranked #4 Oklahoma Sooners 27–14.[68]

Baylor took the lead early in the game when they took advantage of a dropped punt and scored. Baylor held the lead for the rest of the game. Kansas State was able to close the lead to seven points but never took the lead. During the game, both teams replaced their starting quarterbacks. The final score was Baylor 20, Kansas State 10.[69]

At Texas

1 234Total
Kansas State 7 1000 17
Texas 7 933 22
  • Date: November 26
  • Location: Austin, TX
  • Game start: 11:00 am
  • Television network: FOX
  • Sources: ESPN box score[70] ESPN team stats[71]
Pregame lineOver/under
+252
StatisticsTexasKansas State
First downs2013
Total yards381293
Rushing yards209228
Passing yards17265
Turnovers10
Time of possession33:3026:30
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
TexasPassing
Rushing
Receiving
Kansas StatePassing
Rushing
Receiving

Skylar Thompson was absent in the final regular season game for the Wildcats, and the statistics showed a lack of passing game. However, Deuce Vaughn managed to exceed his average yards per game to put on 143 total yards, which puts him the fourth best in the country.[72]

This was the fifth consecutive win for Texas over Kansas State, who had a one-point lead at halftime. Twice Kansas State attempted to convert on 4th and 1--failing both times. With the field goals from Longhorn Cameron Dicker, Texas pulled ahead to win. The final score of the game was Texas 22, Kansas State 17.[73]

Although Texas won the game and broke a six-game losing streak (its worst since 1956), they ended the game at 5 wins and 7 losses (3-6 in the conference) and are not bowl eligible. However, it is possible they could receive an invitation if there are not enough teams with six wins to fill all 82 bowl game openings. Kansas State's regular season record concluded at 7-5 (4-5 in conference) and expect a bowl game invitation on December 5.[72]

LSU

1 234Total
LSU 0 7013 20
Kansas State 7 14714 42
  • Date: January 4, 2022
  • Location: Houston, TX
  • Game start: 8:00 p.m.
  • Game attendance: 52,207
  • Game weather: None (indoor stadium)
  • Referee: John O'Neill (Big Ten)
  • Television network: ESPN
  • Sources: ESPN Box Score[74] ESPN Team Stats[75]
Pregame lineOver/under
-7.547
StatisticsLSUKansas State
First downs1522
Total yards308442
Rushing yards170183
Passing yards138259
Turnovers20
Time of possession27:3832:22
TeamCategoryPlayerStatistics
LSUPassingJontre Kirklin7–11, 138 yards, 3 TD, 2 INT
RushingJontre Kirklin11 carries, 61 yards, 0 TD
ReceivingChris Hilton Jr1 catch, 81 yards, 1 TD
Kansas StatePassingSkyler Thompson21–28, 259 yards, 3 TD
RushingDeuce Vaughn21 carries, 146 yards, 3 TD
ReceivingPhillip Brooks III5 catches, 69 yards

Kansas State and Louisiana State were both selected to play in the Texas Bowl on January 4, 2022.[76] Coach Klieman remarked, “I am really proud of our team, especially our seniors, and our staff for their dedication throughout the season and display of our four core values – Discipline, Commitment, Toughness and Be Selfless. The story of the 2021 Wildcats still has one chapter to write, and we look forward to kick off the new year in Houston and prepare for what will be an exciting Texas Bowl.”[77]

When the game began, Kansas State scored early and held the lead the entire game. LSU was hampered, having lost its starting quarterback who transferred to Texas A&M and backup quarterback recovering from surgery. LSU had senior receiver Jontre Kirklin move to quarterback. Kirklin had not played as a quarterback since high school in 2016. LSU did not get a first down until late in the second quarter and by that time Kansas State already had a 21–0 lead. The final score was Kansas State 42, LSU 20.[78]

Rankings

Ranking movements
Legend: ██ Increase in ranking. ██ Decrease in ranking.
— = Not ranked. RV = Received votes.
Week
PollPre1234567891011121314Final
APRVRV25RVRVRVRVRV
CoachesRVRVRVRVRV
CFPNot releasedNot released

Statistics

Scores by quarter

1 2 3 4 Total
All opponents 0 0 0 0 0
Kansas State 0 0 0 0 0

Coaching staff

Name Position Year at Kansas State Previous job
Chris KliemanHead coach3rdNorth Dakota State (HC)
Joe KlandermanDC/S3rdNorth Dakota State (DB)
Courtney MessinghamOC/WR3rdNorth Dakota State (OC/RB)
Van MaloneAHC/PGC/CB3rdMississippi State (DA)
Brian AndersonRB3rdIllinois State (WR)
Collin KleinQB6thNorthern Iowa (QB)
Jason RayFB/TE3rdNorth Dakota State (WR)
Conor RileyOL3rdNorth Dakota State (OL)
Steve StanardLB2ndSyracuse University (DE)
Mike TuiasosopoDT3rdUTEP (DL)
Buddy WyattDE3rdKansas (senior analyst)
Trumain CarrollStrength/Cond.1stOklahoma State

Players drafted into the NFL

Round Pick Player Position NFL Club
7247Skylar ThompsonQBMiami Dolphins
7253Russ YeastDBLos Angeles Rams

References

  1. Black, Ryan (December 16, 2020). "Kansas State pauses football activities; Wildcats also withdraw from bowl consideration". The Mercury. Retrieved February 9, 2021.
  2. Skretta, Dave (December 16, 2020). "Kansas State latest to skip college football bowl game due to COVID-19". Denver Post. Retrieved February 9, 2021.
  3. "Oklahoma Tops Big 12 Football Media Preseason Poll". big12sports.com.
  4. "2021 Kansas State Wildcats Football Schedule". FBSchedule. Retrieved February 9, 2021.
  5. "Stanford vs. Kansas State – Team Statistics". ESPN. September 7, 2021. Retrieved September 7, 2021.
  6. "Stanford vs. Kansas State – Box Score". ESPN. September 7, 2021. Retrieved September 7, 2021.
  7. Robinett, Kellis (September 4, 2021). "What we learned from Kansas State's impressive opening victory over Stanford". Wichita Eagle. Retrieved September 10, 2021.
  8. "Thompson and K-State open with 24–7 win over Stanford". ESPN. September 4, 2021. Archived from the original on September 6, 2021. Retrieved September 10, 2021.
  9. "Kansas State vs Southern Illinois Prediction, Game Preview". College Football News. September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  10. Hawkins, Stephen (September 5, 2021). "Stanford nearly shut out by Kansas State in opener, falling 24–7". Napa Valley Register. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  11. "Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Kansas State Wildcats (box score)". espn.com. September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  12. "Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Kansas State Wildcats (team stats)". espn.com. September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  13. Hefferman, Todd (September 10, 2021). "No. 8/9 SIU at Kansas State: 3 things to watch". The Southern Illinoisan. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  14. Robinett, Kellis (September 12, 2021). "Can Kansas State keep winning with backup quarterback Will Howard leading the offense?". Kansas City Star. Retrieved September 12, 2021.
  15. Hefferman, Todd (September 11, 2021). "Kansas State rallies for 31–23 win over SIU". The Southern Illinoisan. Retrieved September 12, 2021.
  16. "Kansas State holds off Southern Illinois 31–23 after losing Thompson". KAKE TV (ABC). September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 12, 2021.
  17. "Nevada vs. Kansas State (box score)". ESPN. September 18, 2021. Retrieved September 18, 2021.
  18. "Nevada vs. Kansas State (team stats)". ESPN. September 18, 2021. Retrieved September 18, 2021.
  19. Santoro, Joe (September 13, 2021). "Mountain West rankings: Nevada on top after drilling Idaho State". Lahontan Valley News. Retrieved September 13, 2021.
  20. "Nevada vs. Kansas State College Football Odds, Plays and Insights". Sports Illustrated. September 13, 2021. Retrieved September 13, 2021.
  21. Robinett, Kellis (September 14, 2021). "K-State defense eager to prove itself against elite Nevada quarterback Carson Strong". Kansas City Star. Retrieved September 15, 2021.
  22. Friesen, Cody (September 18, 2021). "Kansas State uses rushing attack to beat Nevada 38–17". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Archived from the original on September 20, 2021. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  23. Robinett, Kellis (September 18, 2021). "Five things we learned from Kansas State's gritty 38–17 victory over Nevada". Wichita Eagle. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  24. Green, Arne (September 18, 2021). "Kansas State football pushes past Nevada, 38–17, thanks to a big fourth quarter". Topeka Capital Journal. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  25. Rittenhouse, Duke (September 18, 2021). "Kansas State 38, Nevada 17: Wildcats score final 21 points to hand Wolf Pack first loss". Reno Gazette Journal. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  26. Robinett, Kellis (September 18, 2021). "'We haven't scratched the surface': Why Kansas State could be surprise team of Big 12". Wichita Eagle. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  27. "Kansas State vs Oklahoma State (box score)". ESPN. September 25, 2021. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
  28. "Kansas State vs Oklahoma State (team stats)". ESPN. September 25, 2021. Retrieved September 25, 2021.
  29. Wright, Scott (September 19, 2021). "Oklahoma State at Boise State football: Five takeaways from the Cowboys' 21–20 win over Broncos". The Oklahoman. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  30. "College Football Rankings – Week 4". ESPN. September 19, 2021. Retrieved September 19, 2021.
  31. Tranchina, John (September 25, 2021). "Sanders powers Oklahoma State past No. 25 Kansas State 31–20". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Archived from the original on September 27, 2021. Retrieved September 27, 2021.
  32. "Oklahoma vs Kansas State (box score)". ESPN. October 2, 2021. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  33. "Oklahoma vs Kansas State (team stats)". ESPN. October 2, 2021. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  34. Robinett, Kellis (October 2, 2021). "Three thoughts from Kansas State's frustrating 37–31 defeat against Oklahoma". Wichita Eagle. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  35. Werner, Barry (October 2, 2021). "Kansas State perfect onside kick turns imperfect after Oklahoma challenge". MSN Sports. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  36. Robinett, Kellis (October 2, 2021). "Controversial replay review spoils onside kick for Kansas State against Oklahoma". Kansas City Star. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  37. "No. 6 OU leans on Rattler, video review to top K-State 37–31". ESPN. October 2, 2021. Retrieved October 2, 2021.
  38. "Iowa State vs. Kansas State (box score)". espn.com. October 16, 2021. Retrieved October 21, 2021.
  39. "Iowa State vs. Kansas State (team stats)". espn.com. October 16, 2021. Retrieved October 21, 2021.
  40. "Hall, Purdy lead Iowa State past Kansas State, 33–20". espn.com. October 16, 2021. Retrieved October 21, 2021.
  41. "Kansas State vs. Texas Tech (box score)". espn.com. October 23, 2021. Retrieved October 23, 2021.
  42. "Kansas State vs. Texas Tech (team stats)". espn.com. October 23, 2021. Retrieved October 23, 2021.
  43. "K-State rallies past Texas Tech 25–24, ends Big 12 skid at 8". CBS Sports. October 24, 2021. Retrieved October 26, 2021.
  44. Robinett, Kellis (October 24, 2021). "Grades from Kansas State's 25–24 victory at Texas Tech and a look ahead to TCU". Kansas City Star. Retrieved October 26, 2021.
  45. Stephenson, Craig (October 25, 2021). "Texas Tech fires head football coach Matt Wells". AL.com. Retrieved October 26, 2021.
  46. "TCU vs. Kansas State (box score)". espn.com. October 30, 2021. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  47. "TCU vs. Kansas State (team stats)". espn.com. October 30, 2021. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  48. Green, Arne (October 30, 2021). "What we learned from Kansas State's 31–12 Big 12 football victory over TCU". Topeka Capital-Journal. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  49. Davison, Drew (October 30, 2021). "TCU football sinks to new low as Kansas State rolls to a dominant 31–12 victory". Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  50. Gordon, Jeff (November 1, 2021). "Tipsheet: Ruthless College football competition claims legendary TCU coach". St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  51. "Stats". K-State Sports. November 6, 2021. Retrieved November 8, 2021.
  52. "Kansas State vs. Kansas (box score)". espn.com. November 6, 2021. Retrieved November 8, 2021.
  53. "Kansas State vs. Kansas (team stats)". espn.com. November 6, 2021. Retrieved November 8, 2021.
  54. "Kansas State vs. Kansas College Football Odds, Plays and Insights". Sports Illustrated. November 1, 2021. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  55. Guskey, Jordan (October 31, 2021). "Here are 5 takeaways from Kansas football's 55–3 loss against No. 15 Oklahoma State". Topeka Capital-Journal. Retrieved November 1, 2021.
  56. DiDomenico, Tyler (November 6, 2021). "Jayhawks drop Sunflower Showdown 35-10 to K-State, fall to 1-8 on the season". University Daily Kansan. Retrieved November 8, 2021.
  57. Newell, Jesse (November 6, 2021). "3 things we learned from KU Jayhawks football's 35-10 loss to Kansas State Wildcats". Kansas City Star. Retrieved November 8, 2021.
  58. "West Virginia vs. Kansas State (box score)". espn.com. November 13, 2021. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  59. "West Virginia vs. Kansas State (team stats)". espn.com. November 13, 2021. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  60. Hertzel, Bob (November 13, 2021). "WVU football: Mistakes doom Mountaineers in 34-17 loss at Kansas State". Charleston Gazette-Mail. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  61. Skretta, Dave (November 13, 2021). "Vaughn leads Kansas State to 34-17 win over West Virginia". ABC News. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  62. Green, Arne (November 13, 2021). "Kansas State football vs. West Virginia: Wildcats finish strong for fourth straight win, 34-17". Topeka Capital-Journal. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  63. Robinett, Kellis (November 15, 2021). "Grades from Kansas State's 34-17 victory over West Virginia and a look ahead to Baylor". Wichita Eagle. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  64. "Vaughn leads Kansas State to 34-17 win over West Virginia". espn.com. November 13, 2021. Retrieved November 16, 2021. Kansas State kept watching West Virginia stubbornly convert fourth downs to keep its comeback hopes alive.
  65. "Kansas State vs. Baylor football". K-State Sports. November 20, 2021. Retrieved November 24, 2021.
  66. "Baylor vs. Kansas State (team stats)". espn.com. November 20, 2021. Retrieved November 24, 2021.
  67. "Baylor vs. Kansas State (box score)". espn.com. November 20, 2021. Retrieved November 24, 2021.
  68. Smith, Erick (November 13, 2021). "No. 18 Baylor dominates No. 4 Oklahoma to shake up College Football Playoff race". USA Today. Retrieved November 15, 2021.
  69. Green, Arne (November 21, 2021). "'Baylor beat us today': Kansas State football team accepts loss, vows to move forward". Topeka Capital-Journal. Retrieved November 24, 2021.
  70. "Kansas State vs. Texas (box score)". espn.com. November 26, 2021. Retrieved November 29, 2021.
  71. "Kansas State vs. Texas (team stats)". espn.com. November 26, 2021. Retrieved November 29, 2021.
  72. "Johnson, Dicker lead Texas past Kansas State 22-17". espn.com. November 26, 2021. Retrieved November 29, 2021.
  73. Green, Arne (November 26, 2021). "Kansas State football falls flat in the second half against Texas. Here's what stood out". Topeka Capital-Journal. Retrieved November 29, 2021. The Kansas State Wildcats could have made a statement and carried some momentum into the postseason, but instead they fell completely flat in the second half Friday as they dropped a 22-17 decision to Texas at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
  74. "LSU vs Kansas State - Box Score". espn.com. January 4, 2022. Retrieved January 5, 2022.
  75. "LSU vs Kansas State - Team Stats". espn.com. January 4, 2022. Retrieved January 5, 2022.
  76. West, Glen (December 5, 2021). "LSU Football Selected to Participate in Texas Bowl Against Kansas State". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved December 6, 2021.
  77. Robinett, Kellis (December 5, 2021). "Kansas State Wildcats will finish football season at Texas Bowl. Here are the details". Kansas City Star. Retrieved December 6, 2012. I am really proud of our team, especially our seniors, and our staff for their dedication throughout the season and display of our four core values – Discipline, Commitment, Toughness and Be Selfless. The story of the 2021 Wildcats still has one chapter to write, and we look forward to kick off the new year in Houston and prepare for what will be an exciting Texas Bowl.
  78. "Kansas State dominates short-handed LSU in Texas Bowl". Los Angeles Times. January 4, 2022. Retrieved January 5, 2022.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.