The Kansas Jayhawks approach the 2025 Sunflower Showdown with both optimism and urgency, knowing that this rivalry has become the defining test of their progress under head coach Lance Leipold. Kansas hasn’t beaten Kansas State since 2008, and each season’s meeting has served as a benchmark for whether the Jayhawks are truly closing the gap between respectability and Big 12 contention. Leipold has revitalized the program through disciplined development and smart transfer-portal acquisitions, but this game is about proving that foundation can finally produce results against a perennial power. The Jayhawks’ offense, led by quarterback Jalon Daniels, remains their greatest weapon—a balanced, high-tempo system designed to stress defenses horizontally while keeping them honest with the deep ball. When healthy, Daniels is one of the most dynamic playmakers in college football, blending sharp field vision with the escapability to turn broken plays into highlights. His chemistry with receivers Lawrence Arnold and Quentin Skinner has given Kansas a legitimate vertical passing threat, while running back Devin Neal continues to be the steady heartbeat of the attack, capable of grinding out tough yards and breaking explosive runs when lanes open. The offensive line, though improved, will face a massive challenge against a Kansas State front seven that thrives on disruption, and protecting Daniels will be priority one.

Defensively, Kansas has shown strides under coordinator Brian Borland, with better tackling and improved gap integrity, but consistency remains a problem—especially on third down, where they’ve struggled to get off the field against more physical teams. The Jayhawks will likely mix in disguised pressures and rely on corner Cobee Bryant to anchor the secondary against Avery Johnson’s balanced passing attack. In rivalry games like this, emotion runs high, but execution separates the hopeful from the victorious. For Kansas, this matchup represents more than just an opportunity to snap a 16-game skid; it’s a chance to validate years of cultural rebuilding. The home crowd at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is expected to be electric, with the Jayhawks enjoying one of the best fan turnouts in the Big 12 since Leipold’s arrival. Momentum and confidence will be crucial early—if Kansas can strike first, sustain offensive rhythm, and prevent K-State’s defense from dictating tempo, they can force the Wildcats into a rare position of discomfort. Leipold’s game management and Daniels’ poise will be tested, especially in late-game situations where Kansas has faltered in past editions of this rivalry. To win, the Jayhawks must play clean football—limit penalties, finish red-zone trips with touchdowns, and control time of possession to keep their defense fresh. Special teams execution could also swing the game, as field position battles have historically favored Kansas State. Still, this is a different Kansas program than in years past—one with legitimate speed, depth, and a belief that it can stand toe-to-toe with anyone. If the Jayhawks can channel the emotion of the home crowd without letting it turn into anxiety, this could finally be the year they turn the Sunflower Showdown into a four-quarter fight instead of a coronation.