Kansas State Preview

Kansas State has been a prickly October opponent in the past.   Somehow they always seem to have just enough to beat the Cyclones.   The way the Cyclones have played up to this point has not exactly instilled a great deal of confidence in this Commissioner.   

Kansas State has a run first offense and personality.   Deuce Vaughn, sophomore Running Back is their leading rusher and second leading receiver.  Which means the majority of the offense goes through their Running Back, Vaughn.  

Skylar Thompson, Super Senior QB was hurt in an earlier game this year and has been shaky at times.   But, when healthy he can make some things happen.   Kansas State along with Iowa State is also coming off a bye week.  I believe K-State used the off week to get healthy, while Iowa State used the off week to fine tune some of the small things.  So, they should both be  healthy, very well prepared, and ready to go.    

Defense could be one of the deciding factors.   Kansas State's defense is currently ranked #44 and allowing an average of 342.6 yards per game.  Therefore, Iowa State should be able to move the ball and score some points.  Compare that to Iowa State's Defense ranked #3 while allowing a stingy 234.2 yards per game.   If Iowa State can stop the Running Back Vaughn on offense and special teams, Skylar Thompson may have a long day, and be forced to lead and carry the team. 

As for Offense Iowa State has a showing at #38th and gaining 442.0 yards per game.   Iowa State is currently ranked #6 offensively in The Big 12 and K-State is ranked #9 offensively in The Big 12.  Kansas State does not make the list of the Top 50 ranked offenses.   

Bottom Line: if Iowa State comes out flat and allows the Wildcats to get a nice first half lead like they did against Iowa and Baylor, the game will be up in the air and likely unfavorable.   If Iowa State can come out and jump on the Cats, like they did against Kansas and UNLV - Iowa State should win the game without much nail biting.   

Prediction: Before, During, and After The GAME

This game doesn't make me as nervous as Baylor.   But, I'm still not 100% convinced that Iowa State is as good as their preseason prediction.   It is Iowa State and Kansas State at 6:30, on the road in Manhattan.   Iowa State hasn't won on the road in Manhattan for 17 years, so this is a thorny road game.  It is the 104th meeting of Iowa State and K-State.   Iowa State currently leads the all time series 51-49-4.   But, I'm expecting a close game with this one, and may require some liquid calming nerve agent.    The Cyclones seem to find a way to make these types of games uncomfortable,.