Winning 45-0 against an FCS school should not be a surprise. Yet, Kansas State does have a history starting the season slow, regardless of the opponent. Southeast Missouri State was a competitive FCS school last year. They made a nice “pre-season” game for the Wildcats to open against this year.
Kansas State lost key players to the NFL last year. Deuce Vaughn, Felix Anudike, Julius Brents, and Ekow Boye Doe among others have found homes at the next level. However, it appears that the Wildcats have reloaded. DJ Giddens and Florida State transfer Treshaun Ward will lead the back field. Ben Sinnott will continue to be Will Howard’s security blanket at Tight End. Phillip Brooks returns with RJ Garcia II emerging as a tremendous route runner. Finally, Kansas State boasts one of the most experienced lines in the Big 12 if not the country. It is too early to comment on Kansas State’s defense. Let’s just say that blanking an FCS school should be the expectation of all top 25 schools in the FBS.
Besides an efficient offense and dominate defense, the best thing about Saturday’s game was watching true freshman Avery Johnson operate the offense under center. Howard performed well despite throwing an interception. However, Johnson looked like he could be a starter. Perhaps that is why he received 2nd team reps against SEMO. Johnson came into the lineup and confidently delivered the ball on time and on target. His first drive was a nine-play masterpiece capped off by an Avery Johnson seven-yard touchdown run.
Johnson has some nifty moves, quick feet and fast legs to go with his flowing locks of blond hair. On his next drive he led the team to the SEMO goal line but failed to convert on fourth and goal. On his last drive, a lineman was flagged for holding taking the team off schedule and leading to a punt. His last two drives brought him back to earth creating great experience for him to learn from. The future is bright for Kansas State as Johnson continues to develop under the tutelage of Coach Collin Klein.
Kansas State hosts Troy next week before traveling to Missouri for an old school Big 8 match up. I look forward to observing a more polished Will Howard, along with a more dominate run game. Go Wildcats!
