No. 17 Kansas State Seeks Maiden Win Over Tulane, Which Aims for Statement Upset
MANHATTAN, Kan. — No. 17 Kansas State is set to host Tulane this weekend in what could be a compelling non-conference clash, as the Wildcats aim for their first-ever win over the Green Wave, while Tulane looks to make a statement on the national stage.
The two programs have met only once before, with Tulane claiming the victory. That game, a 17-10 upset in 2022 in Manhattan, still stings for Kansas State — a team that went on to win the Big 12 Championship that season. Now, the Wildcats are not only looking for revenge but also to stay perfect in the early stages of their 2025 campaign.
Kansas State enters the matchup ranked No. 17 in the AP Top 25 with a 2-0 record, including a decisive 38-14 win over Colorado State last week. Quarterback Avery Johnson has shown early poise, throwing for 482 yards and five touchdowns through two games. Meanwhile, the Wildcats’ defense, led by linebacker Austin Moore, has allowed just 17 points per game, a testament to their physical front seven and disciplined secondary.
“We remember what happened last time,” said head coach Chris Klieman during Tuesday’s media availability. “Tulane is a tough, well-coached team. We’re not taking anything for granted.”
On the other sideline, Tulane (1-1) is coming off a hard-fought 27-24 victory over Southern Miss, bouncing back from a narrow season-opening loss to Ole Miss. Quarterback Kai Horton has filled in admirably for the injured Michael Pratt, showcasing composure and accuracy. Head coach Willie Fritz, in his ninth season, believes his team is capable of pulling off another upset.
“We know we can compete with teams at the Power Five level,” Fritz said. “We did it here before, and we believe we can do it again.”
The game will likely hinge on Tulane’s ability to contain Kansas State’s multi-dimensional offense and generate big plays against a stingy defense. Special teams could also play a crucial role; both squads have dynamic returners and accurate kickers.
For Kansas State, the matchup offers a chance to exorcise a recent ghost and continue climbing the rankings. For Tulane, it’s an opportunity to reassert itself as one of the nation’s top Group of Five programs and disrupt the College Football Playoff conversation.
Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT at Bill Snyder Family Stadium, with coverage on ESPN2.
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