GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Desire may be the biggest intangible for TCU and Kansas State. The Horned Frogs are coming off a loss at Kansas, the Jayhawks’ second Big 12 win in four years. The Wildcats were manhandled in a loss at Oklahoma. TCU produced more than 500 yards against Kansas, including a 351-yard passing performance by QB Michael Collins in his first start. That has to concern the Wildcats, who rank last in the Big 12 defending the pass. Expect the TCU defense to try to diminish the effectiveness of the Kansas State run game and RB Alex Barnes.
DRAFT SLANT
–OT Dalton Risner ranks as a potential second-day pick in the NFL Draft, but the Wildcats’ ineffectiveness rushing the football against stronger defenses does not help the right tackle’s stock. Risner ignored the temptation to declare early, returning for his senior season, but it has been a disappointment with the Wildcats sitting in the Big 12 cellar at 1-4. Risner’s versatility after playing center early in his college career, and his durability, are strengths.
ROSTER REPORT
–CB Duke Shelley, who ranks among the Big 12 leaders in passes defended (13) and interceptions (three) is not expected to return soon after missing the Oklahoma game with an injury to his lower right leg. Shelley watched from the sideline while wearing a protective boot. His absence was a huge blow to the Kansas State secondary.
–FB Adam Harter and WR Malik Knowles were true freshmen who each marked for the first time in Kansas State’s loss at Oklahoma. Each logged their first career receptions. The Wildcats need more depth among receivers, while Harter can make an impact as a deceptive blocking back.
–P Devin Anctil has taken over the punting duties, though P Andrew Hicks still qualifies as the Big 12’s top punter with a 43.7-yard average. Anctil averaged 46.9 yards on seven attempts against Oklahoma, including boots of 57 and 65 yards. The 65-yarder was the longest for the Wildcats since 2013.
–LB Da’Quan Patton was arrested on Oct. 28 for a warrant from the Manhattan (Kan.) Municipal Court for an unpaid parking ticket. Kansas State coach Bill Snyder said the incident will not keep Patton from playing at TCU.
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