Mailbag: Expectations for Kansas State newcomers

1. What is the reasonable number of points per game and yards per game for the Kansas State offense in two year under offensive coordinator Collin Klein?

DG: That is a tough question, especially with the new rule change with no play clock stoppage between first downs. Kansas State averaged 70 plays per game a year ago, which was a dramatic change from the 58 per game the Wildcats averaged in 2021.

I would say somewhere in the ballpark of 70-72 plays per game this season is a solid estimate.

K-State averaged 32 points per game last season. I know the staff’s goal is to average close to 40 points per game, but it seems to be more reasonable to pinpoint it at 33 or 34 points per game. Remember, the Wildcats averaged 32 points per game last season despite only scoring 10 versus Iowa State.

2. What is the plan at kicker?

DG: Our expectation is that the plan remains for Chris Tennant to handle the Kansas State kicking duties.

3. How do you feel about where K-State stands with Caleb Redd?

DG: St. Louis edge rusher Caleb Redd will be in Manhattan this weekend for an official visit. It is likely a battle between K-State and Kentucky for his services. He was just in Lexington for an official visit a week ago.

There is a sense of confidence on the Kansas State side, but Redd has kept things close to the vest.

4. What will be the split in carries between Treshaun Ward, DJ Giddens and Joe Jackson?

DG: I’ll say 45 percent of the K-State carries go to DJ Giddens, another 45 percent goes to Treshaun Ward and the remaining 10 percent gets spread between reserves Jordan Schippers, Joe Jackson and Anthony Frias.

5. Will Tre Spivey get playing time this year?

DG: While Kansas State wideout Tre Spivey is the most ready of the true freshman receivers from a physical standpoint, it would still be tough to see him playing more than a game or two even if he sees the field at all.

However, fall camp results will dictate that.

6. Which Kansas State underclassman has the most NFL potential?

DG: It is fun to think about the roster in this light. There are a lot of good answers. But I’ll lean towards Andrew Leingang and Will Lee.

Leingang is still just a sophomore and has all the potential in the world. He played in nine games a year ago and is knocking on the doorstep of breaking out. And after seeing Julius Brents chosen in the draft with near identical measurables, it is hard to not think of Lee.

7. Does Markquis Nowell play an NBA game in his career?

DG: Yes. At least one team will want Markquis Nowell and take a chance on him. 540 players played in an NBA game this past season. the K-State star should receive a shot.

8. Of the four Big 12 newcomers, which one has the best home court and home field advantage in basketball and football?

DG: For basketball, it should be Houston. The Cougars have only lost six games at home since 2017 and have been a Final Four contender in consecutive seasons. If their fans can’t get up for those kind of results, I don’t understand it.

Football is a bit tougher. None really stand out above the rest. UCF is known for having a pretty rowdy crowd when things are going well, and ‘The Bounce House’ is developing a strong reputation of being a rambunctious bunch.

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