Four Downs: Wildcats roll past Oklahoma State 42-20

Avery Johnson is lifted up by one of his linemen in celebration during Saturday's game. Courtesy: Ashton Todd

It was a great day to be a Wildcat as 23rd-ranked Kansas State took down 20th-ranked Oklahoma State, 42-20, in a crucial Big 12 showdown. 

With the win, K-State improves to 4-1 overall and 1-1 in Big 12 play, while Oklahoma State falls to 3-2 and is now 0-2 in conference play. Let's break down the key moments of this game and what it means moving forward.

Bend-But-Don’t-Break Mentality 

Kansas State found themselves in a tough spot early in the second quarter, down 10-7 after Oklahoma State scored on a flea flicker. Following that play, K-State quarterback Avery Johnson threw a poorly timed interception, setting up the Cowboys in prime field position. It felt eerily similar to last week's loss against BYU, where turnovers led to short fields and easy scores for the opponent.

However, this time, K-State’s defense stepped up. Despite the turnover, the Wildcats held Oklahoma State to just a field goal, keeping the deficit manageable at 13-7. That defensive stand proved to be the pivotal moment in the game. Kansas State quickly responded with a two-play scoring drive, including a long run from DJ Giddens and a touchdown pass from Johnson to Garrett Oakley. From that point on, K-State never looked back, leading 21-13 at halftime and pulling away for a commanding victory.

Redemption game for Sunshine

Avery Johnson delivered what was arguably his best performance of the season. Johnson completed 19 of 31 passes for 259 yards and three touchdowns, bouncing back from an early interception that could have derailed his confidence. His ability to throw from the pocket looked more polished than ever, and his decision-making improved as the game went on.

Johnson’s connection with wide receiver Jayce Brown on a 55-yard touchdown pass gave Kansas State a 21-13 lead late in the first half, a lead they would never relinquish. Johnson also contributed on the ground, rushing for 60 yards and two touchdowns, including a 13-yard scramble that sealed the game in the fourth quarter.

Ground Game Dominance: DJ Giddens Untouchable

While Johnson showcased his skills through the air, running back DJ Giddens was the star on the ground. Giddens tallied 187 yards on just 15 carries, averaging an impressive 12.5 yards per carry. His 66-yard touchdown run to start the third quarter was the spark that helped K-State pull away from Oklahoma State for good.

Despite some questions about play-calling, particularly regarding the use of freshman running back Dylan Edwards, Giddens was the clear standout, and Oklahoma State had no answer for him. In total, Kansas State rushed for 300 yards on 34 carries, a dominant showing that complemented their 259 passing yards to create a balanced offensive attack.

Defensive Resurgence: Shutting Down Oklahoma State

While the final stat sheet shows Oklahoma State racked up 490 yards of total offense (including 364 through the air), the K-State defense was much better than the numbers suggest. After allowing some early success, the Wildcats consistently forced Oklahoma State into difficult third-down situations and shut down their star running back, Ollie Gordon.

Gordon, a preseason Heisman favorite, had 85 total yards in the first quarter but was limited to just 11 yards for the remainder of the game. K-State’s defense was relentless, forcing Oklahoma State to rely on a trick play for their only offensive touchdown outside of garbage time. 

The Wildcats forced three turnovers, including key interceptions from Marques Sigle and Jacob Parrish. Parrish’s pick in the end zone was a critical moment, denying Oklahoma State a chance to close the gap late in the third quarter.

Looking Ahead: Tough Road Stretch Awaits

Kansas State has shown a stark contrast between their home and road performances this season. Their two strongest outings came at Bill Snyder Family Stadium, highlighted by dominant wins over Arizona and Oklahoma State. However, their struggles on the road have been evident.

The Wildcats had lackluster showings in away games against BYU and Tulane, and with three of their next four games on the road—including a tough test in two weeks against a surging Colorado team—K-State must elevate their play away from home to stay in the Big 12 title hunt.

While today’s win over Oklahoma State showcased the team’s potential, maintaining that level of play consistently will be critical in the upcoming stretch.