Head Coach: Chris Klieman, 5th year: 30-20, 11th year overall: 102-33
Kansas State Wildcats Preview 2023
The Kansas State Wildcats are looking to build on their 2022 season, which saw them go 7-5 overall and 4-4 in Big 12 play. Head coach Chris Klieman is entering his fifth season in Manhattan, and he has a solid foundation to work with.
The Wildcats return a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback Will Howard, running back Deuce Vaughn, and wide receiver Malik Knowles. Howard threw for 2,958 yards and 20 touchdowns last season, while Vaughn rushed for 1,402 yards and 12 touchdowns. Knowles caught 63 passes for 861 yards and six touchdowns.
The Wildcats also have a strong defense, led by linebacker Daniel Green and defensive back Jahron McPherson. Green had 100 tackles last season, while McPherson had three interceptions.
The Wildcats' schedule is challenging in 2023, but they have a chance to make a bowl game if they can stay healthy and play up to their potential. They open the season with a home game against South Dakota, and they also have home games against TCU, Oklahoma, and West Virginia.
Here is a list of key players for the Kansas State Wildcats in 2023, along with their 2022 statistics:
- Will Howard, QB: 2,958 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, 7 interceptions
- Deuce Vaughn, RB: 1,402 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns
- Malik Knowles, WR: 63 receptions, 861 yards, 6 touchdowns
- Daniel Green, LB: 100 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss
- Jahron McPherson, DB: 3 interceptions, 8 pass breakups
The Wildcats' overall statistics from 2022 were:
- Points scored: 33.8 per game
- Points allowed: 27.2 per game
- Rushing yards per game: 188.3
- Passing yards per game: 247.0
- Total yards per game: 435.3
I predict that the Kansas State Wildcats will win 7 games in 2023. They have the talent to be a bowl team, but they will need to stay healthy and play up to their potential.