Recap: Kansas State falls to Texas in heartbreaking fashion

Kansas State Wildcats fall short in an exciting roller coaster game against Texas, losing 33-30. This final conference matchup between the two teams was filled with twists and turns.

The Wildcats got off to a rough start, trailing 17-0 in the first half. However, a blocked punt by Shane Porter set up a six-yard touchdown pass from Will Howard to Phillip Brooks, cutting the lead to ten.

Offensive coordinator Collin Klein made predictable play calls, resulting in several punts by Jack Blumer and a stagnant offense in the first half.

The second half started similarly to the first, with Howard’s pass intercepted by a Longhorn defender after a bobbling effort by Keagan Johnson. However, a strong defensive stop prevented a touchdown, only for a Howard fumble to give Texas possession at the K-State six-yard line, leading to a Jonathan Brooks touchdown.

Despite feeling out of the game at this point, Kansas State’s offensive coordinator decided to open up the playbook, introducing a higher tempo spread offense. The change paid off as Howard connected with Brooks for another touchdown, bringing the Wildcats back into contention.

Quarterback Maalik Murphy struggled for the rest of the game, throwing an interception to Jacob Parrish. However, Howard redeemed himself by finding Johnson for a touchdown.

Kansas State’s offense and defense thrived in the second half, capitalizing on another Longhorn turnover for a Jayce Brown touchdown, tying the game at 27.

Both teams settled for field goals on their subsequent possessions, with Texas taking a three-point lead. Kansas State had the opportunity to tie or win the game with a field goal in the closing minutes, but Chris Tennant missed a chip-shot attempt.

Nevertheless, the Wildcats’ defense made a crucial stop, allowing Howard to lead them back into field goal range. Tennant made amends, connecting on a 45-yard field goal to force overtime.

In overtime, Texas settled for a field goal on their first drive, putting the pressure on Kansas State. Howard quickly connected with Ben Sinnott, bringing them close to the end zone.

Despite three unsuccessful attempts, head coach Chris Klieman opted to go for the win on fourth-and-goal instead of settling for a field goal. Unfortunately, Howard was under pressure, and his final pass fell incomplete.

This loss drops Kansas State’s record to 6-3 for the season, including two losses in Big 12 play.