Sunflower Showdown just got interesting thanks to former Wildcats departure

Kansas State’s Dillon’s Sunflower Showdown matchup is already one of the season’s most anticipated games, but a transfer portal twist might make it even more unpredictable.

Mark your calendars for Oct. 17, because this kind of history doesn’t usually repeat itself.

Former Kansas State RB Dylan Edwards brings new threat to Wildcats on opposite sideline

Former Kansas State running back Dylan Edwards was expected to be the best thing to happen to the Wildcats when he committed in 2024, but that didn’t last long.

After playing his first season with the Colorado Buffaloes, Edwards entered the transfer portal with his sights set on returning to Kansas State — and the vision of former head coach Chris Klieman. Needless to say, neither Klieman nor Edwards stayed in that original plan.

Klieman retired following the 2025 season, and Edwards… Well, he became somewhat of a traitor to the locals in Manhattan, Kansas. Back in January, he was spotted in the stands at Allen Fieldhouse. Days later, he announced his commitment to the Jayhawks.

Dylan Edwards could make history in 2026 Sunflower Showdown

If he stays healthy, Edwards could make history as the first player in the transfer portal era to suit up for both Kansas State and Kansas since the transfer rules changed in 2020. Same position, same job, same everything – just on the opposite side of the rivalry.

If Edwards is poised to replicate his 2025 performance for Kansas State, there’s little cause for concern. In the latter half of last season, former backup running back turned starter Joe Jackson handled most of the carries, even setting a record during the Wildcats’ 51-47 loss to Utah.

Jackson’s numbers weren’t modest, either. Against the Utes, he rushed for 293 yards, breaking a single-game record set by Darren Sproles in 2003. After Edwards went down against the Iowa State Cyclones in Dubin, Jackson carried the bulk of the responsibilities.

Even better, he’s on pace to repeat those numbers. If Jackson takes over as starter, he won’t just have a shot at surpassing his 911-yard 2025 season – he could even double it.

Wildcats looking to extend 17-game win streak over Jayhawks

Another win for Kansas State in the Sunflower Showdown may not scream front-page news. The Wildcats have won the last 17 straight, and they’re looking to make it 18 consecutive games, dating back to the 2008 season.

No other rivalry in the Big 12, or even the country between in-state foes, comes close. Depending on how the Jayhawks fare in the polls, it could be a resume-boosting victory — but not much more.

The game falls late enough in Collin Klein’s first season as Kansas State's head coach that the pressure won’t be overwhelming.

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