Looking past non-power 5 opponents has troubled Kansas State in recent seasons. That was not happening today. Troy came in riding a 12-game winning streak. The Wildcats fully planned on closing that chapter for the Trojans. “The Bill” was filled, and the scene was set with a backdrop of purple.
A close first half had K-State backers wondering if losses to the non-power 5 would be a new part of the culture in Manhattan. But, quarterback Will Howard’s performance put five touchdowns on the board and sworded the Trojans 42-13. Overall, it was a dominant performance for K-State, one in which the Wildcat faithful would like to grow accustomed.
The blazing heat didn’t suppress the passion from the stands. “Wildcat Victory” played often and spirited dancing to “Wabash Cannonball” never waned. Coming off a Big 12 championship, there has been much to celebrate in Manhattan and much to anticipate this season.
As Willie the Wildcat flexed through his last set of point scoring push-ups and as fans filed out to celebrate in Aggieville, expectations rose for another championship season. A challenging road lies ahead, but as Howard said, “this was a game where we learned a lot.” Early struggles struck some concern, but the lesson came without a loss.
