Kansas State ended 2023 with a pop! Well, more like with a Pop-Tart as they capped off their season with a win in the Pop-Tarts Bowl over NC State in what was Avery Johnson's first start.
After an up-and-down season, the Wildcats finished 9-4 with a big win over NC State, but they had the opportunity to play for a Big 12 Championship, but weren't able to win the close games, especially away. The Wildcats went just 2-3 on the road last season with wins only against Texas Tech and Kansas.
In 2024, Kansas State is a favorite to win the conference now with the departure of Texas and Oklahoma. This also marks Johnson's first year as a full-time starter, which means his first time starting against away crowds in hostile environments.
So, which road games are going to be the most crucial for the Wildcats?
Now this game may not seem important because BYU struggled last season and it they aren't projected to do very well in 2024 either. However, this is an important game because this is the Wildcats' first Big 12 game and they start on the road.
Kansas State can't afford to start behind the eight ball in the Big 12 with a loss in their first conference game. In what will be a very competitive conference this season, Kansas State needs every win they can get, especially in conference play, and that starts with a win over BYU away.
This will be the first time Kansas State and Colorado face off since the Buffaloes left the Big 12 back in 2011. On top of that, the Wildcats will have to travel to Colorado on their homecoming weekend and take on the Buffaloes high-powered offense.
The history of these two teams alone is what makes this game so important, but this will also be K-State's first conference game against a newcomer. Johnson will play in a very hostile environment and Deion Sanders will throw everything he has at the young quarterback and it will be a true test on how Johnson will react to a hostile environment.
This will be the most important road game for K-State in 2024, especially with it being the final game of the season. These teams faced off in the final game of the 2023 season as well with a Big 12 Championship appearance on the line. Iowa State spoiled the Wildcats' chance in 2023 and either team could play that role for the other in 2024.
Kansas State always seems to struggle against the Cyclones, especially late in the season. With the game in Ames, K-State can get their revenge on Iowa State in front of their own home crowd. This game could decide the Big 12 Championship, making it the most important one, both home or away for the Wildcats.