Big 12 Football Power Rankings, Week 4: Kansas State takes a big leap

Record in last 5 games: 3-2
Total offense conference rank: No. 8
Total defense conference rank: No. 3
Best win: vs. Stanford

Carson Strong came into this game against Kansas State with legitimate NFL Draft buzz. Kansas State did a great job in subduing the buzz and running away with a victory against Nevada.

This game was closer than the score shows, as Nevada had tied this game up at 17 in the third quarter. After this point, Kansas State’s offense rushed for 117 yards and three touchdowns on 21 carries.

Will Howard managed the game well in his first start back but did not make a huge impact as a passer. Howard did connect with Daniel Imatorbhebhe for a 68-yard touchdown pass. Outside of that Howard was 6-for-9 with 55 yards through the air.

Kansas State features a strong running game but will need Howard to stretch the field more. There are some very good rush defenses in this conference, which will mitigate the impact of Deuce Vaughn and Co.

Next Game: at Oklahoma State

Record in last 5 games: 3-2
Total offense conference rank: No. 7
Total defense conference rank: No. 1
Best win: vs. Northern Iowa

The Big 12 features three teams that rank in the top 10 for rushing yards allowed per game. Iowa State features the strongest rushing defense out of the group allowing just 50.7 rushing yards a game.

Going up against UNLV, Iowa State would finally get their offense back on track. Breece Hall had nine games last year with multiple touchdowns. He had his first such performance of 2021 against UNLV while also adding 100 rushing yards.

The biggest sigh of relief for Iowa State fans came after Brock Purdy’s performance. Purdy finished Saturday with as many touchdown passes as incompletions (3).

If the offense can get back to the same level they were at in 2020, the Cyclones will find themselves back in the playoff discussion sooner rather than later.

Next Game: at Baylor