Kansas vs Kansas State Picks and Prediction – 10/27/2024

The Kansas Jayhawks (2-5, 1-3 in the Big 12) will visit the Kansas State Wildcats (6-1, 3-1 in the Big 12) for an in-state rivalry clash on October 26th. Kansas is coming off a dominant 42-14 win against Houston, but prior to that, the Jayhawks struggled with a three-game losing streak. Kansas State, meanwhile, has been strong, winning three straight, including a 45-18 victory over West Virginia. This matchup looks to test Kansas’ ability to keep pace with a top-tier opponent. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

The Kansas Jayhawks rely on quarterback Jalon Daniels, who has thrown for 1,312 yards with 10 touchdowns and 8 interceptions this season. The rushing attack is led by Devin Neal, who has accumulated 692 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. However, the Jayhawks' offensive inconsistency has been apparent in previous losses. Wide receiver Luke Grimm leads the team with 363 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

Defensively, Kansas has been inconsistent, allowing an average of 30 points per game. Linebacker Jaylen Brown leads the team with 39 tackles, while cornerback Cobee Bryant has been a playmaker with four interceptions. The defense will have to play excellent football against a Kansas State offense that can move the ball efficiently.

Kansas State's offense is led by quarterback Avery Johnson, who has thrown for 1,401 yards and 14 touchdowns with only five interceptions. Running back DJ Giddens has been the engine of the offense, rushing for 843 yards and four touchdowns on the season. Wide receiver Jadon Brown leads the Wildcats in receiving yards with 420 and three touchdowns. The Wildcats are averaging over 30 points per game and will look to exploit Kansas' defensive weaknesses.

On defense, Kansas State has been solid, allowing only 19.7 points per game. Linebacker Austin Romaine is the leader on that side of the ball with 51 tackles, while safety Marques Sigle has two interceptions. The defense will focus on shutting down Devin Neal and forcing Daniels into mistakes, as they have shown the ability to control games through defensive pressure.

Kansas State's overall balance on both offense and defense, combined with strong home-field advantage at Bill Snyder Family Stadium, gives them the upper hand. Expect the Wildcats to dominate both sides of the ball, while Kansas' offense may struggle to keep up. Final Score Prediction: Kansas State Wildcats win and cover 38-17.