PHOENIX -- The Kansas State Wildcats claimed victory over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at the Rate Bowl on Thursday night, ending the season on a high note with a thrilling 44-41 comeback win. The game, played at Chase Field, showcased the Wildcats' resilience and determination following a challenging stretch leading up to the bowl.
Quarterback Avery Johnson led the charge for Kansas State, throwing for three touchdowns and breaking the program's record for single-season passing touchdowns with 25. His record-breaking feat came with just over seven minutes left when he connected with freshman running back Joe Jackson on a 9-yard pass, cutting the Scarlet Knights' lead to 41-36.
"I hate losing in general. We earned this opportunity to play another game. We just want to go out and showcase some of the things we didn't get to showcase," Johnson said, reflecting on the pressure of the season and the importance of the bowl game.
The Wildcats started the game off poorly, trailing by 17 early in the third quarter and struggling with both defense and offense. Nonetheless, everything clicked for Kansas State as Dylan Edwards stepped up as the primary running back, amassing 196 yards and scoring two touchdowns, including a remarkable 65-yard rushing touchdown. His performance set the K-State bowl record for rushing yards.
The team’s turnaround was marked by increased momentum and improved defensive strategy. After allowing Rutgers to score multiple times early, Kansas State managed to contain their offense, allowing only one touchdown after falling behind 34-17. This turnaround gave the Wildcats the spark they needed to claw their way back to victory.
Edwards, who transferred from Colorado before the season, proved his worth by embracing the challenge of stepping up for DJ Giddens, who opted out of the game to prepare for the NFL Draft. "It was great to see our team battle after being down," Edwards remarked, celebrating the late-game heroics.
Rutgers, who faced their own mid-season struggles losing four consecutive games, had shown resilience by clinching their bowl spot after defeating Michigan State. Coach Greg Schiano reflected on his team’s challenges, stating, "We fought through real adversity this season, injuries to levels I haven't seen before... but our team reinvented itself midseason."
Despite the Wildcats trailing at various points throughout the game, the thrilling comeback showed their tenacity, reminiscent of their potential early-season performance. "You can look at taking a loss two different ways: you can either sit there and sulk, or you can find something to getbetter on," said Hadley Panzer, K-State's center, emphasizing the mindset shift after their previous games.
This victory stands out not only as a season finisher but also as the foundation for future growth. Kansas State entered the season with aspirations for the College Football Playoffs, but after stumbling to three losses in their last four games, it meant all the more to end on such a victorious note.
With both quarterbacks showcasing their impressive skills, Johnson, who completed 15 of 30 passes for 195 yards alongside his three touchdowns, joins elite company among other Power 4 quarterbacks as one of the few to record over 2,500 passing yards and 525 rushing yards within the same season.
The Wildcats now look forward to the next season with renewed hope and strength, ready to tackle the challenges the upcoming year will bring.
