Locked On Wildcats: K-State’s Big 12 Redemption Tour Starts Now
It’s been a minute since Kansas State stood atop the Big 12, confetti raining down in Arlington after a gutsy overtime win against then-undefeated TCU in 2022. Will Howard commanded the offense like a seasoned general, Deuce Vaughn slashed through defenders like a magician, and Chris Klieman’s defense bent but never broke. That 31-28 classic wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. But since that triumphant night, the Wildcats have watched others steal the spotlight. In 2023, a series of narrow losses and key injuries derailed what could have been another title run.
Now, in 2025, the narrative resets. The road back to Arlington begins in Ames.
Opening the season against Iowa State isn’t just a test—it’s a tone-setter. The Cyclones are scrappy, physical, and always dangerous in Jack Trice Stadium. But this year’s Kansas State team comes in with something it hasn’t had in a while: balance, hunger, and depth.
At quarterback, sophomore Avery Johnson has grown into his role as the undisputed starter. The dual-threat dynamo showed flashes last year, but now he’s bulked up, sharpened his reads, and looks ready to terrorize Big 12 defenses with both his arm and his 4.4 speed. Don’t be surprised if he reminds fans of a young Michael Vick—controlled chaos with a cannon.
In the backfield, Florida transfer Jaylen Henderson joins returner DJ Giddens to form a thunder-and-lightning duo that will pound and slash their way through defenses. Behind a seasoned offensive line anchored by preseason All-Big 12 tackle Christian Duffie, K-State’s run game might be its most lethal weapon.
And the defense? Nasty. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman returns a unit loaded with experience and anchored by linebacker Austin Moore, a fifth-year leader with instincts sharper than a scalpel. The secondary, once a liability, is now a strength, led by safety Kobe Savage, whose name fits his style—aggressive, fearless, and loud.
But this year isn’t just about talent. It’s about revenge. Redemption. Returning to glory.
The schedule sets up well. After Iowa State, Kansas State avoids early traps and faces fellow contenders like Utah and Arizona in Manhattan. The Wildcats won’t have to travel to Texas or UCF, two of the conference’s toughest environments. And the Nov. 15 home game against Oklahoma State? Circle it. That might decide who punches their ticket to Arlington.
Chris Klieman has built more than a tough team. He’s built a culture. One that doesn’t flinch in the fourth quarter, one that embraces the underdog role, and one that remembers what it felt like to stand on the podium, Big 12 trophy in hand.
If everything clicks, Kansas State’s return to the Big 12 Championship isn’t a wish—it’s a reckoning.
Locked On Wildcats will be watching every step. Let the redemption tour begin.
