.png)
As I took notes on the game ahead, the history between BYU and Kansas State struck me. Despite both programs’ rich legacies, meetings between the two have been rare. Coaches like LaVell Edwards and Bill Snyder built football empires, yet these teams last faced off in the 1997 Cotton Bowl—both squads' first New Year’s Bowl appearance.
Fast forward to 2024, and it’s exciting to see them not only in the same conference but set to square off under the lights at LaVell Edwards Stadium for a primetime matchup at 9:30 p.m. CT.
Looks Are Deceiving: BYU’s Defense
BYU’s defense, currently ranked 61st in the FBS, has the potential to become a Top-25 unit. They’re physical, disruptive, and adept at creating turnovers, forcing five takeaways through three games. Head coach Kalani Sitake has done an admirable job preparing the team for the physical battles of Big 12 football, particularly along the line of scrimmage.
Defensive end Tyler Batty is relentless in getting to the quarterback, but a glaring issue is the defense’s vulnerability to QB runs, repeatedly allowing opposing quarterbacks to gain big chunks of yardage.
Additionally, the name on everyone's radar is linebacker Jack Kelly. Listed as a top-5 outside linebacker in Mel Kiper’s NFL Draft projections, Kelly transferred from Weber State and has quickly become a force for the Cougars, consistently applying pressure on the quarterback.
A critical factor for BYU’s defense has been their ability to lock down the passing game, as they’ve yet to surrender a passing touchdown. Standouts like Evan Johnson, Mark Collins, and Jacob Robinson have all registered at least one interception.
This presents a challenge for Kansas State’s receiving corps, especially since quarterback Avery Johnson has only thrown touchdown passes to tight ends and running backs so far this season.
BYU will need their defense to take full advantage of their home field and the altitude—nearly 1,400 miles higher than Manhattan, Kansas—to slow down the Wildcats.
Concerns in the Run Game?
BYU’s offense, however, has not been without its issues, particularly on third down. Running back LJ Martin is the team’s best weapon, combining vision, power, and speed.
Martin has been successful in converting third-and-short situations but has been limited in opportunities. Backup running back Hinckley Ropati has struggled, converting just one of three third-down attempts, adding to the offense’s woes.
Overall, BYU’s inability to consistently convert on third down is alarming, especially considering they’ll be facing tougher defenses in the Big 12, beginning with Kansas State.
Retzlaff’s Revelation
Quarterback Jake Retzlaff won a heated QB competition in fall camp and has shown flashes of brilliance, compiling 841 passing yards and 7 touchdowns through three games.
He’s also BYU’s leading rusher, a testament to his athleticism and importance to the offense, particularly with the Cougars dealing with injuries at running back.
Despite a strong showing against weaker opponents like Southern Illinois and Wyoming, Retzlaff struggled against SMU’s defense, completing just 15 of 28 passes with one touchdown. If BYU wants to keep pace with K-State, Retzlaff will need to find his rhythm again and deliver big plays.
How the Wildcats Will Fare
BYU boasts one of its strongest receiving corps in years, with Chase Roberts leading the way with 15 catches for 263 yards, averaging an impressive 17.5 yards per reception. Retzlaff is more than capable of hurting K-State’s defense with his arm or his legs, but I’m not convinced he’s ready to lead the Cougars to an upset of this magnitude, especially in Big 12 play.
Kansas State’s defense has already picked off two passes this year, which could spell trouble for Retzlaff, who has thrown three interceptions this season.
While the Cougars may put up a fight early on, I expect the Wildcats to pull away late, potentially sealing the game with a defensive touchdown in front of a stunned whiteout crowd at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
One thing is for sure: I’ll be heading straight to bed after this late-night showdown. So, Wildcats fans, plan accordingly—this one might keep you up past your bedtime.
Comentários