Tonight’s game pits a pair of squads that have lost a lot of pieces coming in. With players leaving for the transfer portal or opting out to prepare for the NFL Draft, it’s a night of opportunity. In K-State’s case a large part of that change comes at wide receiver and, yes, even at punt returner. North Carolina State also faces a lot of changes, including Bednarik Award winner Peyton Wilson, who opted out of the game.
All eyes are on Avery Johnson starting at quarterback and Chris Klieman said he was impressed with what he saw from the freshman during workouts ahead of the game.
Connor Riley takes over as offensive coordinator tonight, working closely with Johnson.
Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren says his team is focused on doing something the program hasn’t done but once in the past: win 10 games.
Doeren is familiar with K-State’s program having coached at Kansas under Mark Mangino.
Kickoff is at 4:45 this afternoon and the weather should be nice. Skies are expected to clear off after morning rain, though it will be cool. It’s expected that the temperature will be 65 at game time.
Pop-Tarts Bowl Updates are sponsored by Commerce Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services Agent Joe Wilson in Manhattan and WholeHealth MHK.
