Kansas State Wildcats vs Arizona Wildcats Picks and Predictions September 13th 2024

A high-stakes game is on the horizon as the No. 14 Kansas State Wildcats prepare to host the No. 20 Arizona Wildcats in an electrifying Big 12 showdown. Both teams enter this Friday night game in Manhattan, Kansas, undefeated, but the path to get here hasn’t been without its challenges. Now, with conference pride on the line, this game promises to be a thriller.

A New Era for Arizona in the Big 12

A Game that Became Even More Important

This clash was initially a non-conference game, but everything changed when Arizona joined the Big 12 as part of the Pac-12 realignment. What was supposed to be a regular early-season matchup has transformed into a key contest—Arizona’s formal welcome to the Big 12.

Kansas State and Arizona are both 2-0, but they’ve had to iron out some wrinkles in their early performances. This matchup will be a real test for both teams as they work through those early-season struggles.

Kansas State’s Grit: A Look Back at the Tulane Win

Resilience on Full Display

Kansas State comes into this game riding high after a gutsy 34-27 win over Tulane, where they overcame a 10-point halftime deficit. The game-changer? A thrilling 60-yard fumble return midway through the fourth quarter that sealed the victory.

Coach Chris Klieman credited the win to the leadership and grit of his players. “We beat a good football team,” Klieman said. “Our culture won that game with those older kids stepping up at halftime.” That culture of toughness and experience will be crucial as Kansas State faces a hungry Arizona squad.

Kansas State’s Key Strengths

The Wildcats have a battle-tested roster, filled with veteran players who know how to pull through in tough moments. That maturity and experience make them a formidable opponent, especially for an Arizona team still finding its footing.

Arizona’s Offensive Struggles and Injury Troubles

Offensive Woes Despite Undefeated Record

While Arizona remains unbeaten, they’ve hit some bumps along the way. The defense gave up 39 points in their season opener against New Mexico, and their offense faltered in last week’s 22-10 win over Northern Arizona.

Injuries have played a big part in Arizona’s struggles, particularly on the offensive line. Starting center Josh Baker’s status remains uncertain due to injury, and star running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt missed the last game due to eligibility issues.

Quarterback Challenges

Arizona’s quarterback, Noah Fifita, started the season strong with 422 yards and four touchdowns against New Mexico, but his production dropped sharply in the second game, with just 173 yards. Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who racked up 304 yards in the first game, was held to just two catches for 11 yards against Northern Arizona. Arizona will need to sort out these offensive issues if they hope to keep pace with Kansas State.

Players to Watch: Kansas State’s DJ Giddens and Avery Johnson

DJ Giddens: A Dual Threat

Running back DJ Giddens has been a major force for Kansas State, with 238 rushing yards on 32 carries. What makes Giddens even more dangerous is his ability to catch out of the backfield—he leads the team in receptions. His versatility will keep Arizona’s defense on its toes.

Avery Johnson: A Developing Star

Quarterback Avery Johnson has shown he’s more than just a passer. While he’s thrown for 334 yards and four touchdowns, Johnson’s mobility is a secret weapon. He’s already rushed for 77 yards, and his patience in the pocket has been impressive. Coach Klieman called Johnson “a competitor” and “a winner.” Arizona’s defense will have its hands full trying to contain this dynamic duo.

Arizona’s Defense: Challenges Ahead

Defensive Struggles

Arizona’s defense has had its own set of problems, especially on third downs, where they went 0-for-10 against Northern Arizona. Coach Brent Brennan knows the defense has to improve to handle Kansas State’s high-powered offense.

“We just have to relax and let the game come to us,” Brennan said. But relaxing may not be enough. They’ll need to step up big time to deal with Giddens’ hard-nosed running and Johnson’s unpredictability.

The Task Ahead for Arizona

Arizona’s defense will have to find a way to limit the explosive plays that Kansas State thrives on. They struggled with New Mexico’s dual-threat quarterback Devon Dampier in Week 1, and now they face a similar challenge in Johnson. Brennan acknowledged Johnson’s talent, calling him “ridiculously explosive.”

A Battle of Wildcats: What’s at Stake?

Both Kansas State and Arizona are undefeated, but only one team will keep that record intact after Friday night. Kansas State, with its experienced leadership and resilience, may have the upper hand, but Arizona’s new energy in the Big 12 could make this game much closer than people expect.

It’s not just a game—it’s a statement. For Arizona, it’s about proving they belong in the Big 12. For Kansas State, it’s about solidifying their status as a conference powerhouse. This game could be one of the defining moments of the season for both teams.