Kansas State Football: Texas Bowl Tale of the Tape and My Keys to Victory

Nov 26, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats running back Charles Jones (24) breaks away from the Kansas Jayhawks during a game at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats running back Charles Jones (24) breaks away from the Kansas Jayhawks during a game at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 26, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Bill Snyder is surrounded by his family after a game against the Kansas Jayhawks at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Snyder was recognized for earning his 200th career victory. The Wildcats won the game, 34-19. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Bill Snyder is surrounded by his family after a game against the Kansas Jayhawks at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Snyder was recognized for earning his 200th career victory. The Wildcats won the game, 34-19. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports /

The Final Drive

I’ve already touched on this once, but the elimination of penalties is a high priority. This season has seen an uncharacteristic and inordinate amount of penalties called on the ‘Cats.

Either the discipline was lacking or it’s those crazy Big 12 officials just not knowing what they’re doing. One thing is certain, the penalties have to be eliminated.

Of course as always, turnovers are helpful, though, I don’t think there will be too many of those. But like any other week, winning the turnover battle only increases your chances, so that “key” is a given.

Like all Bill Snyder coached teams, Special Teams will play a key role as well. Let’s not forget Byron Pringle on kicks and Dominique Heath on punts.

They can change the momentum of the game quickly. Winning the field position battle is only part of the equation, but it sure is nice when you cut down a third or half the field.

So … to review, my four keys to the game, that I think will give Kansas State the best chances of winning:

  • Keep Trayveon Williams at bay. Hold him to less than 90 yards and I think we’re golden.
  • Contain Trevor Knight. If he gets loose, he could nickel and dime us to death.
  • Safety help on Reynolds and Kirk. If they burn us, we’re toast.
  • Alex Barnes (if he plays). If he gets over 100 yards rushing and 2 scores, we can hoist another bowl trophy.

Next: Reasons for the Season ... 13 to be Exact

Of course, these are just my opinions. We’d love to hear what you think it will take to win in Houston, against our old friends from College Station.

Let us know in the comments below!

#EMAW #PaintHoustonPurple!