Even before Texas and Oklahoma departed the Big 12, Kansas State was already celebrating a Big 12 conference championship. Now, the Wildcats are preseason ranked No. 2 in the conference, just behind newcomer Utah for the 2024 season.
With the Big 12 expanding to a 16-team league, it promises to be a season full of parity. Despite preseason rankings, no team stands significantly above the others.
“Every conference has a face. In the SEC, it’s multiples — Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Tennessee, etc. In the Big Ten, it’s Ohio State and Michigan. In the ACC, it’s Florida State and Clemson. In the Big 12 it’s … to be determined. Seven different teams have played in the conference championship game since 2019,” CBS Sports’ Dennis wrote.
There are no standout teams like Georgia, Ohio State, or Texas in the Big 12. This wide-open competition is a key reason Kansas State football has a strong chance to win the Big 12 title again.
The Big 12 will be highly competitive
Some might underestimate the Big 12 this season due to the departure of Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC. The SEC is now stronger than ever, potentially dominating the College Football Playoff. However, if you’re looking for evenly matched college football games, the Big 12 is the place to be.
Last year, six teams, including the new Pac-12 additions, won eight or more games. This season, some of those teams are likely to increase their win totals, with Kansas State being one of them.
Close losses last year
In Kansas State’s 8-4 season last year, their four losses were all close. They lost by three points to both Missouri and Texas (with the Texas game going to overtime), by seven to Iowa State, and by eight to Oklahoma State. Except for Iowa State, all those teams won nine or more games.
Kansas State’s offense could be even better in 2024
Kansas State’s strength last season was their prolific offense. They scored at least 30 points in all but two games — a 29-21 loss to Oklahoma State and a 30-27 loss to Missouri.
Last season, Kansas State ranked No. 10 in overall scoring offense, averaging 37.1 points per game. Though they will be without quarterback Will Howard, who transferred to Ohio State, there is significant excitement around Avery Johnson and his potential. Additionally, they have 1,000-yard rusher DJ Giddens and Colorado transfer Dylan Edwards in the backfield.
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