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Updated: August 18, 5:58 PM ET K-State loaded on both sides of ball By Mark Wangrin Special to ESPN.com |
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Kansas State Wildcats
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Coach: Bill Snyder (116-51-1, 15th season) 2002 overall record: 11-2 Conference record: 6-2 Returning starters Offense: 7, Defense: 5, Kicker/Punter: 1 2002 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Darren Sproles* (1,465 yds) Passing: Ell Roberson* (1,580 yds) Receiving: Taco Wallace (704 yds) Tackles: Josh Buhl* (135) Sacks: Andrew Shull* (10) Interceptions: Bobby Walker (6) Outlook: Bill Snyder has never been a big fan of the media. Especially now. "I think it's sort of a kiss of death,'' the veteran KSU coach said of the media's selection of his Wildcats as the overwhelming favorite to win the North Division. "I was told the media has been correct in one of the last six selections for division champs. If that's true, we're in serious trouble." It's not true -- the media is actually a respectable 4-2 -- and the Wildcats are far from trouble, though they do have concerns. Replacing three offensive linemen and top defensive playmakers in tackle Tank Reese, linebacker Terry Pierce and cornerback Terence Newman won't be easy. Quarterback Ell Roberson and halfback Darren Sproles return to give KSU two of the most explosive offensive players in the league. End Andrew Shull is the returner in the defensive line, and Justin Montgomery and Andrew Bulman will be counted on to fill the void at tackle. Keep an eye on: KSU's extra points. Joe Rheem and Jared Brite return to handle the place kicking chores after a 2002 season that had KSU fans more excited about successful PATs than the touchdowns that preceded them. The Wildcats went 65 for 74 on PATs and a blocked 36-yard field goal in the final seconds against Texas cost the Wildcats a shot at overtime. Key game: KSU figures to be unbeaten when it visits Texas on Oct. 4 in what shapes up as being the Wildcats' toughest Big 12 game. A win over the Longhorns -- who face rival Oklahoma the following week -- would virtually assure the Wildcats of a North Division title. It's a good year if. . .: Roberson plays like he did last year and not like he did in 2001. Aside from his expected running threat last year, Roberson provided the Wildcats with efficient passing, throwing only four interceptions all season and completing 52 percent of his passes. Splitting time with Marc Dunn in 2001 Roberson completed only 39.7 percent of his passes and threw eight interceptions. Mark Wangrin covers the Big 12 for the San Antonio Express-News.
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