Kansas State Aims for Bowl Eligibility Against Struggling Colorado

Kansas State University (K-State) faces a crucial matchup against the University of Colorado on November 29, 2025, as the Wildcats seek to secure bowl eligibility. With a current record of 5-6 and 4-4 in the Big 12, K-State is heavily favored to win, boasting a 17.5-point advantage. The stakes are high for the Wildcats, who aim to achieve a winning conference record for the first time since the 2011-2014 seasons.

The Wildcats are motivated by significant milestones. A victory over Colorado would not only mark their chance to become bowl eligible but also set the stage for a potential third consecutive bowl win, a feat K-State has never accomplished. Head Coach Chris Klieman emphasized the emotional weight of this game, particularly for the senior players, stating, “I’ve been a part of it and have seen it where you don’t win your Senior Day game, and that’s a tough locker room.”

K-State is coming off a narrowly contested loss against No. 13 ranked Utah, where they fell 51-47 despite a record-setting performance from sophomore running back T.J. Jackson. He rushed for 293 yards on 24 carries, setting a new school record that previously belonged to Darren Sproles. K-State’s offense was particularly notable, amassing a school-record 472 rushing yards, although it occurred during a loss, the most significant by a Division I team in such circumstances since 2017.

The Wildcats have faced challenges this season, as evidenced by their participation in seven one-score games, winning only two. Last season’s matchup against Colorado ended with K-State clinching a thrilling 31-28 victory, a memory that could provide an emotional boost as they step onto the field this Saturday.

In contrast, Colorado enters the game with a disheartening record of 3-8 and 1-7 in the Big 12. The Buffaloes have struggled significantly after a promising 2024 season, where they finished 9-4. This year, they have lost six of their last seven games, with their only recent victory coming against No. 22 Iowa State. The Buffaloes will start quarterback Kaidon Salter, who has had a mixed season, throwing for 1,242 yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions.

Salter returns to the starting position after Julian Lewis, the previous starter, opted to redshirt. This change could complicate Colorado’s offensive strategy, particularly against a formidable K-State defense. Salter also contributes as a runner, ranking second on the team with 293 rushing yards and leading with five rushing touchdowns.

Despite their struggles, Colorado’s head coach, Deion Sanders, is known for his motivational skills. With this being the Buffaloes’ final game of a challenging season, Sanders will likely employ every tactic at his disposal to inspire his players. As the Buffaloes aim to finish the season strong, the game presents a chance for redemption, albeit against a team with much to prove.

Kansas State is expected to leverage its superior talent and momentum from previous encounters. Given the Wildcats’ recent performance and the stakes of the game, predictions favor K-State, with a projected score of 34-17. Fans can expect an exciting showdown as both teams strive to conclude the season on a high note.