LAWRENCE — Kansas State football continues to own the state after emerging with a 42-17 win over in-state rival Kansas to win its 17th-consecutive Sunflower Showdown rivalry game.
The Wildcats still haven’t lost the rivalry matchup since 2008.
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Kansas State pulled away in the second half to put the game away, and didn’t let the elements bother it during a rainy afternoon on Saturday, Oct. 25, in Lawrence.
Here are our grades from Kansas State’s latest win over the Jayhawks:
Kansas State football offense vs Kansas: A-
While the Wildcats had chances to put the game away early in the first half, they got some explosive plays in the second half to pull ahead. The Avery Johnson and Jayce Brown connection was great, though you might’ve liked to see a little more on the ground.
Kansas State football defense vs Kansas: B+
Kansas State’s tackling woes continued, which is disappointing after having the week off. The Wildcats weren’t fooled often by misdirection, which led to a few sacks and what-should-have-been interceptions. Against the run, the Wildcats had a solid outing, outside of a few Jalon Daniels scrambles.
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Kansas State football special teams vs Kansas: C-
Bryce Noernberg’s fumble on the opening kick gave the Jayhawks a quick early touchdown. The Wildcats made up for it when a low Kansas snap on a punt was scooped up by Ralph Ortiz and returned for a 20-yard score. The punting game also struggled, giving Kansas good field position.
Kansas State coaching vs Kansas: A-
Considering how well the Wildcats were running the ball in the first half, it was worth wondering why they didn’t run the ball more. Still, they dialed up some wide-open looks for Johnson, and defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman had a solid day with some blitz calls.
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Final grade for Kansas State vs Kansas: A-
It seemed like a given early in the season that this would be the year that Kansas would finally end its lengthy losing streak against its rival. Kansas State dominated here, and all feels right in the world.
Wyatt D. Wheeler covers Kansas State athletics for the USA TODAY Network and Topeka Capital-Journal. You can follow him on X at @WyattWheeler_, contact him at 417-371-6987 or email him at wwheeler@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas State football vs Kansas grades: Wildcats report card from win
