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Avery Johnson passed for 147 yards and two touchdowns, while DJ Giddens rushed for 143 yards and two scores to lead Kansas State to a 41-15 win over Cincinnati on Saturday night. With running back Dylan Edwards sidelined due to injury, Johnson also ran for 81 yards and a touchdown, helping the Wildcats control the game offensively.
Sunshine’s Dual-Threat Impact
Avery Johnson’s running ability added a crucial dimension to K-State’s offensive strategy, revitalizing the rushing attack.
Johnson rushed for 81 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries, including a 34-yard run on his first snap and a 21-yard keeper.
His mobility opened up space for DJ Giddens, who delivered his best performance in nearly two months with 143 yards and two touchdowns on just 15 carries. Johnson’s presence as a runner forced Cincinnati’s defense to account for multiple threats, creating opportunities for Giddens and Joe Jackson, who also contributed effectively, especially in open space.
The dual-threat approach made K-State’s ground game its most potent weapon, leading to 111 rushing yards in the first quarter alone.
Defensive Dominance with Key Plays in Critical Moments
K-State’s defense, particularly the front seven, set the tone early by playing fast and physical. They allowed just 11 total yards in Cincinnati’s first two drives and stopped a key 4th-and-1 at the end of the first quarter, signaling the return of their “Mob Mentality.”
The defense generated consistent pressure, especially in third and fourth-down situations, forcing multiple turnovers on downs.
Despite struggling with some coverage issues against Cincinnati’s receivers, standout performances like Jacob Parrish locking down Xzavier Henderson underscored the unit's resilience.
Brendan Mott’s interception late in the second quarter was a game-changing moment, setting up a touchdown that extended K-State’s lead to 17-3 before halftime.
Next Man Up Mentality
With key offensive players like Dylan Edwards, Keagan Johnson, and Jadon Jackson sidelined, K-State showcased its depth.
Joe Jackson stepped up in the running game, demonstrating that the Wildcats could maintain their ground attack without a drop-off.
Meanwhile, wide receivers Tre Spivey and Cephas proved that their recent breakout performances were no fluke. Spivey’s downfield blocking was instrumental in Giddens’ 32-yard touchdown run, and he also caught a touchdown pass from Johnson.
The emerging chemistry between Johnson and these receivers highlighted an emerging asset for the Wildcats’ offense, providing stability and production despite injuries. It’s just a shame this didn’t develop earlier in the season.
Control what YOU can Control
Kansas State still has a shot at the Big 12 Championship, but the path is far from straightforward. To remain in contention, the Wildcats need:
A win at Iowa State
At least two losses from Arizona State, BYU, and Colorado
A loss from Baylor
While K-State can control their own outcome with a win, they'll also need some help from other teams. Next weekend, the Wildcats travel to Ames to face Iowa State, who is vying for their first-ever 10-win season and a spot in the conference championship. K-State will look to derail those aspirations and keep their own Big 12 title hopes alive.
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