The November 15, 2025, Big 12 clash between the Kansas State Wildcats and the Oklahoma State Cowboys in Stillwater is shaping up as a game of contrasting trajectories, with Kansas State fighting to stay in the bowl conversation while Oklahoma State looks to salvage pride in a season that has gone completely off the rails. The Wildcats, sitting at 4-5, have shown flashes of quality football under head coach Chris Klieman but have struggled to put together a complete performance against conference competition. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, with a strong start followed by defensive breakdowns and uneven offensive execution in recent weeks. Quarterback Avery Johnson remains the centerpiece of Kansas State’s offense, bringing dynamic dual-threat ability that gives defenses fits both through the air and on the ground. He’s thrown for over 1,800 yards and rushed for nearly 500, accounting for a majority of the Wildcats’ offensive production. Johnson’s athleticism has been complemented by a ground game anchored by DJ Giddens, whose physical running style and burst between the tackles help control tempo and wear down opposing defenses. Kansas State’s offensive line, typically a team strength, will be tested against Oklahoma State’s aggressive but inconsistent defensive front. The Wildcats’ goal will be to establish dominance early through the run and play-action game while maintaining balance to keep the Cowboys off guard. Defensively, Kansas State has allowed nearly 28 points per game, which underscores their biggest issue this season—surrendering explosive plays, particularly against spread-style offenses. Their secondary has struggled at times with communication and coverage assignments, something Oklahoma State may try to exploit through tempo and quick reads.

That said, the Wildcats’ front seven remains a solid unit, led by linebacker Austin Romaine and defensive end Khalid Duke, both of whom have excelled in stopping the run and collapsing pockets. Against Oklahoma State’s struggling offense, which averages just 15 points per game, Kansas State’s defense should have the upper hand, provided they avoid early letdowns or giving up big plays on broken coverage. For the Cowboys, this season has been nothing short of a nightmare. Sitting at 1-8, Oklahoma State has dealt with instability following the departure of longtime coach Mike Gundy and the challenges of rebuilding under interim leadership. The offense has lacked cohesion, ranking near the bottom of the Big 12 in both scoring and total yardage, while the defense has been one of the conference’s weakest, allowing nearly 39 points per contest. Quarterback Zane Flores has shown flashes of promise but lacks consistent protection, leading to turnovers and stalled drives. If there’s a silver lining, it’s the home-field advantage of Boone Pickens Stadium, where Oklahoma State’s fans remain loyal even during down years, and that emotional lift could help them start fast. For Kansas State, the key will be avoiding complacency. The Wildcats are a heavy favorite, with the line hovering around -18.5 and the total near 54, but their uneven road performances this season make bettors wary of a full cover. From a strategic standpoint, Kansas State will look to build an early lead, lean on its rushing attack, and allow Johnson to manage the game efficiently without forcing plays. Oklahoma State will aim to slow the pace, control possession, and rely on defense to keep things close long enough to have a shot in the fourth quarter. The Wildcats’ balanced attack and superior talent, however, make them the clear favorite to dictate the flow. Expect Kansas State to start methodically before pulling away as the game progresses, using physicality in the trenches and superior depth to exploit a depleted Oklahoma State roster. While the Cowboys may play with heart at home, the Wildcats’ overall efficiency and experience should carry them comfortably to victory, keeping their postseason hopes alive while deepening Oklahoma State’s season of frustration.

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