Kansas State Wildcats Edge Kansas Jayhawks 29-27 in Thrilling Sunflower Showdown

The No. 16 Kansas State Wildcats secured a narrow 29-27 victory over their in-state rivals, the Kansas Jayhawks, in the 2024 Sunflower Showdown. This win marked the Wildcats’ 16th consecutive victory against the Jayhawks, dating back to November 1, 2008.

Avery Johnson was instrumental in the Wildcats’ success, throwing for 253 yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing a rushing touchdown. D.J. Giddens added 102 yards on the ground to help the Wildcats maintain their strong ground game.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams making critical plays. Kansas State’s Chris Tennant sealed the win with a 51-yard field goal with just 1:42 remaining. This clutch kick came after a series of pivotal moments, including a fumble recovery by Brendan Mott that gave the Wildcats possession late in the game.

Kansas, led by Jalon Daniels, showed resilience despite the loss. Daniels threw for 209 yards, accounted for two touchdowns, and rushed for 66 yards, but his efforts were marred by two turnovers. The Jayhawks’ special teams also struggled, missing a PAT and committing several blunders that cost them crucial points.

Kansas State coach Chris Klieman praised his team’s performance, noting the importance of contributions from all units. “I was proud at the end that offense, defense and special teams came through,” Klieman said, despite dealing with some dizziness during the game that sent him to the locker room temporarily.

The victory keeps Kansas State’s hopes alive for a conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff, as they improve to 7-1 overall and 4-1 in the Big 12. Kansas, now 2-6 and 1-4 in the Big 12, faces a tough road ahead, needing to win out to reach their third consecutive bowl game.