The Collin Klein era at Kansas State started with a roar, ripping off a 71-3 win over Nicholls to get the season going. Everything clicked, both sides of the ball were great, and now the team is about as tuned up as it can be going into a dangerous game against Washington State.
Call the Cougar opener under new head coach Kirby Moore a successful loss. It’s never okay to lose the Apple Cup, but that’s a loaded Washington team his Wazzu squad faced, and with a slew of new players filling in the gaps, it was a good 24-10 battle.
Kansas State vs Washington State: Quick Hits
It’s the first time these two have played. They’re scheduled to play in early September of 2029 in Pullman – good seats still available.
Kansas State hasn’t lost a Week 2 game since dropping the home date to Mississippi State in 2018. Taking out the four-game 2020 season, Washington State hasn’t lost in Week 2 since 2016.
Washington State opens the home season next week against Duquesne before starting the Big 12 campaign against Arizona. Kansas State hosts Tulane next before starting the Big 12 season at Cincinnati.
How To Watch Kansas State vs Washington State
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026Game Time: 12:00 PM ETTV: TNTLocation: Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan, KS – Week 2 Schedule, Picks– CFN Expert Picks: Week 2
Why Washington State Will Win
The defense stepped up right away against Washington. Granted, the Huskies weren’t sharp, and there were too many missed moments that could’ve gone the other way, but it was tight until the end, with the Cougars bending without a lot of breaking.
Kansas State might have looked great in the opener, but it’s about to go against a solid run defense and an offense that will be stronger once quarterback Caden Pinnick is more comfortable.
Why Kansas State Will Win
Washington State didn’t have a running game when Pinnick wasn’t taking off. That’s his style, and the offense is designed around his dynamic style, but the running backs accounted for just 39 yards against Washington.
Obviously Nicholls was overmatched, but Kansas State was still impressive. The offensive line was solid from the start, the ground game rolled at will, and the defense was outstanding at getting behind the line.
Kansas State vs Washington State Prediction, Betting Lines
Washington State will be more than just plucky. The defense will force field goals early on, and it’ll keep Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson from finding a groove. It’ll take a little bit, and it’ll be frustrating at times, but the Wildcats won’t deal with too much drama – Washington State will struggle to score.
Kansas State 31, Washington State 16Latest Consensus Line: Kansas State -17.5, o/u: 48.5ATS Confidence (out of 5): 2Must See Rating (out of 5): 3.5
Consensus line based on BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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