Opponent Previews 2008: Kansas State

August 6, 2008 by Steve Hanway

The Wildcats had a surprisingly potent offense in 2008, finishing 18th nationally in scoring. But like the Huskers, there was a fair amount of garbage points in that total. For example, KSU scored two TD’s in the fourth quarter of their 73-31 loss to NU, and had late touchdowns in losses to Missouri (49-32) and Fresno State (45-29) with their starters in the game. They also added points late with their starters in blowout wins against Baylor (51-13) and Colorado (47-20).

So, perhaps the lack of competitive contests contributed to that ranking somewhat. Kansas State was one of the worst rushing teams in the nation and was mediocre in terms of pass efficiency.

Wide receiver Deon Murphy returns and can help the Wildcats maintain a stellar punt return unit. Ian Campbell returns which should give KSU a respectable pass rush. Quarterback Josh Freeman did a good job of avoiding sacks, but his productive passing output was offset by his subpar pass efficiency. Jordy Nelson (despite Freeman’s remarks to the contrary) will be missed after producing over 1600 yards and 15 touchdowns from the wide receiver spot. Running back James Johnson accounted for 1300 yards and 13 touchdowns and has also departed. Leon Patton, his backup, averaged two yard per carry fewer than Johnson.

So while it would be unfair to describe KSU as punchless, “potent� might be an overstatement. It’s probably fair to view Kansas State as similar to a year ago. A dangerous team (ask Texas) but not one that’s nearly balanced or consistent enough to contend in the Big 12 North. They could lose all five of their road games (Louisville, A&M, CU, KU, MU) and two or three home games (OU, TT, NU). This is a team that will be lucky to get to 6-6. And if they don’t Ron Prince may not get another season. He certainly won’t get two more without a bowl.

The national consensus seems to be that Kansas State will finish fifth in the North. That’s probably seems about right, though they could climb to third or fourth or fall to last place. That’s the expectation for 2008 if you’re a KSU fan, and not where you hoped to be right now under Ron Prince.

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