Collin Klein: Avery Johnson is growing as unbeaten Kansas State opens Big 12 play at Cincinnati

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Collin Klein: Avery Johnson is growing as unbeaten Kansas State opens Big 12 play at Cincinnati

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Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson demonstrated resilience after overcoming a costly first-half interception against Washington State during the team's ongoing season. Head coach Collin Klein intervened during a weather delay, offering strategic reassurance that helped turn the game around. Klein drew upon his own extensive playing experience as a former Kansas State quarterback and Heisman finalist to mentor the young player. Re-focused following the locker-room conversation, Johnson executed a near-flawless second half to secure a dominant thirty-four to seven victory. The win propelled the Wildcats to an undefeated three-and-zero start, reinforcing early expectations of becoming a dark-horse contender for the College Football Playoff. As Big 12 conference play opens against Cincinnati, coaching staff leadership and player composure remain central to the team's competitive trajectory.

Published 2026-09-23 16:43:49 UTC · Published by JQJO

Prepared by Noormahi M. · AI assisted

More context

Timeline

On September 1, 2012, Collin Klein started as Kansas State star quarterback.
On January 1, 2013, Collin Klein played in the Fiesta Bowl game.
On December 1, 2023, Collin Klein was named offensive coordinator elsewhere.
On December 15, 2023, Collin Klein returned to Kansas State as coach.
On September 1, 2025, Avery Johnson began his starting quarterback season campaign.
On September 12, 2026, Avery Johnson threw an interception against Washington State.
On September 12, 2026, weather delayed halftime during the Washington State game.
On September 12, 2026, Collin Klein mentored Avery Johnson during halftime delay.
On September 12, 2026, Kansas State defeated Washington State thirty-four to seven.
On September 26, 2026, Kansas State opens Big 12 play at Cincinnati.

Why it matters

Immediate US impact: College football rankings and Big 12 championship race shift. Possible long-term US impact: Kansas State establishes viability for expanded College Football Playoff. Most affected groups: Kansas State Wildcats players, coaching staff, and college fans. Reader priority: Official athletic department statements and verified game statistics.

Coverage notes

Left: Evidence was insufficient. Center: Focuses strictly on athletic performance and coaching mentorship dynamics neutrally. Right: Evidence was insufficient.