Kansas State Wildcats Eye Bowl Eligibility Against Colorado Buffs

The Kansas State Wildcats are set to host the Colorado Buffaloes on November 29, 2025, as they strive for bowl eligibility. With a record of 5-6 and a conference standing of 4-4 in the Big 12, Kansas State is heavily favored in this matchup, boasting a 17.5-point advantage over Colorado, which currently holds a record of 3-8 and 1-7 in conference play.

Achieving bowl eligibility is a significant motivation for the Wildcats, who are seeking not only a win but also the opportunity to secure their first three consecutive bowl victories in program history. A victory would mark an important milestone, as Kansas State has not achieved four straight seasons with a winning record in the Big 12 since 2014.

K-State’s head coach, Chris Klieman, reflected on the emotional weight of Senior Day games, highlighting the importance of a win for the players. “It’s a tough locker room when you don’t win your Senior Day game. The euphoria of winning is something special,” Klieman noted, underscoring the significance of the upcoming game for the team and its seniors.

The Wildcats faced a tough loss against the 13th-ranked Utah last weekend, where they were outscored 30-16 in the second half, ultimately ending the game at 51-47 in favor of Utah. Despite this setback, Kansas State is determined to rebound against Colorado.

Sophomore running back DJ Giddens showcased an exceptional performance against Utah, rushing for a school-record 293 yards on 24 carries, including touchdown runs of 66, 80, and 24 yards. His outstanding performance earned him the title of Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week. Klieman praised Giddens, stating, “It was next level. It was something that hadn’t been done to that group at Utah for a long, long time.” The Wildcats’ offensive line also received accolades, being named the Big 12’s Offensive Line of the Week.

Kansas State’s rushing attack was remarkable, accumulating 472 yards—the most by a Division I team in a losing effort since Army’s 534 yards against North Texas in a 2017 game. Despite struggling in close contests, with only two wins in seven one-score games this season, Kansas State is optimistic about leveraging their recent history against Colorado. Last season, they secured a 31-28 victory over the Buffaloes, which serves as a motivational memory for the team.

On the other hand, Colorado’s season has been challenging, particularly following the departure of star players like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter to the NFL. The Buffaloes have lost six of their last seven games, with their only recent victory coming against No. 22 Iowa State. This hard reality has put significant pressure on the team as they prepare for their final game of the season.

Colorado will return to starting quarterback Kaidon Salter, who has thrown for 1,242 yards along with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions this season. Salter also adds a dual-threat element to the offense, ranking as the team’s second-leading rusher with 293 yards and five rushing touchdowns. The switch back to Salter, following Julian Lewis’s brief stint as the starter, may provide some stability, though it comes with the risks associated with less experience.

Head coach Deion Sanders is known for his motivational skills, and he will undoubtedly employ every strategy to inspire his team to perform at their best in what is a challenging season. The Buffaloes are looking to end their campaign on a positive note, and the final game against Kansas State offers them a chance to salvage some pride.

As the Wildcats prepare to take the field, they remain focused on the goal of clinching bowl eligibility. With ample motivation, a strong performance from Giddens, and a supportive home crowd, Kansas State is poised to secure a significant victory against Colorado. Predictions suggest a favorable outcome for the Wildcats, with many anticipating a scoreline of Kansas State 34, Colorado 17.

As the excitement builds for this crucial matchup, fans and players alike are eager to witness how the season will conclude for both teams.