Kansas State has long been a pillar of consistency in college football, navigating the competitive waters of the Big 12 with resilience and determination. Since 2014, the Wildcats have carved out a respectable place in the FBS, ranking 38th on CBS Sports’ list of winningest teams with a solid 91-61 record. With a 59.5 percent winning percentage, they're right up there with programs like Houston and Oklahoma State.
The Wildcats have been regular contenders in the Big 12, making nine bowl appearances since 2014 under the guidance of coaches Bill Snyder and Chris Klieman. Despite facing challenges, including three losing seasons in 2015, 2018, and the pandemic-affected 2020, Kansas State has consistently held its own, even if a playoff berth has remained elusive.
However, the 2025 season threw a wrench in their steady climb. Expectations were high, with postseason ambitions in sight, but the Wildcats stumbled out of the gate.
A shaky defense, a faltering run game, and key players not hitting their stride led to a rough start. Although they managed to regain some momentum midway through the season, the early setbacks had already dashed their hopes.
Enter head coach Collin Klein, a familiar face with a proven track record both as an offensive coordinator and a quarterback in Manhattan, KS. Klein is now tasked with steering the Wildcats back to their status as a conference powerhouse. His plan centers around quarterback Avery Johnson, a player Klein believes can be a game-changer.
Klein shared his optimism in a Big 12 interview, emphasizing the importance of building on existing strengths. "I think being able to come in and have a foundation to work from, so he’s not learning from complete scratch," Klein explained.
"We’re able to build off of a large part of the foundation that was here before. I’m really excited about our ability to package things for him, get on the same page, and think the same way.
Then allow him to cut it loose, play fast, and use that competitive nature. I've watched him from a distance the last couple of years.
I'm proud of how he’s handled things, and I'm really excited to be back on the same sideline."
With Klein at the helm and Johnson ready to lead on the field, Kansas State is poised to bounce back and reassert its presence in the Big 12. Fans can look forward to a season of potential resurgence, fueled by a blend of strategic insight and raw talent.