GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: At this point, it’s not so much about Texas as what Kansas State must do to right itself. Defense was expected to be the Wildcats’ weak link. However, that unit secured four turnovers in the West Virginia loss on Sept. 22 and also forced the Mountaineers to attempt a field goal they missed. Some consolation. The Wildcats scored just three points off the turnovers and fell 35-6. As much as Texas appears to be soaring, the challenge for Kansas State comes from within attempting to ignite an offense that ranks 108th nationally with a 347-yard average.
DRAFT SLANT
–OT Dalton Risner is considered the top NFL Draft hopeful on the Kansas State squad, though the struggles of the offensive line through a 2-2 start is a poor reflection on the senior. Risner passed on leaving early for the draft, in part because the Wildcats were expected to field a strong offensive attack. However, the line has failed to generate consistent holes for the run game and poor protection has contributed to 15 sacks for opponents compared to only three registered by the Kansas State defense.
ROSTER REPORT
–QB Skylar Thompson is expected to retain the starting spot he has held all season against Texas. Thompson struggled mightily in the loss at West Virginia, prompting Kansas State to insert backup Alex Delton after the two were no longer expected to alternate like they did in nonconference play.
–S Denzel Goolsby remains out indefinitely with an undisclosed injury, reducing depth in a Kansas State secondary that has also played without CB Kevion McGee, who made a nice splash in the season opener by breaking up four passes.
–LB Elijah Sullivan returned from an injury and started in the West Virginia loss.
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