Will Howard knows Texas game is 'huge' for Kansas State

Kansas State quarterback Will Howard is aware of what the upcoming game against Texas means for the Wildcats’ season. KSU and the Longhorns are two of five teams tied at the top of the Big 12 with a 4-1 conference record and this could have a big impact on reaching the Big 12 title game.

Howard led the Wildcats to the conference championship in 2022 and knew heading into the season what this game could potentially mean on their quest to repeat. Now that it’s finally here, he’s excited to see how it plays out.

“It’s a huge game,” Howard said. “Like you said, at the time you can’t just sit there and say, ‘this is the biggest game of our season’ and what not. But now that it’s here it’s like, ‘man, this is a huge point in our season for us.’ Playing meaningful games in November is where you want to be. This is a really good Texas team and it’s gonna be a heck of a challenge playing down there, but I’m looking forward to it.”

Kansas State has found some momentum of late to win its past three games in dominant fashion. Running a two-quarterback system with Howard and Avery Johnson, the Wildcats have outscored their previous two opponents by a combined 82-3. Howard has thrown for a combined five touchdowns with no interceptions in each of those games.

Still, the game against Texas is significant for both him and coach Chris Klieman even outside of the Big 12 title implications. The Wildcats have not beaten the Longhorns since Klieman arrived in 2019 and have lost six straight games dating back to 2017.

That included a 34-27 loss last season in Manhattan. Although Howard was not yet the starter at that point, he’s still got revenge on his mind.

“It’s definitely one that we’ve had circled,” he said. “We know that they’re one of the most talented teams in the country. All across the board they’ve got dudes. There’s no doubt about that. So we’re gonna have to play our best game and expect that they’re gonna come out and give us everything they’ve got. It’s gonna be a heavyweight battle and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

This year’s matchup will take place in Austin, giving Kansas State a chance to return the favor against Texas. The Longhorns will be without starting quarterback Quinn Ewers, potentially giving the Wildcats an advantage.

Howard knows the atmosphere will be difficult to overcome, with Texas fans sure to be loud all game long. However, he’s ready for that challenge that lies ahead.

“Last time we were there, it wasn’t totally packed,” he said. “It wasn’t their best year. But still, the stadium, the town, the environment, it’s really cool to go down there and play in that. It’s challenging. We know it’s gonna be loud. We know it’s gonna be rowdy. We know what kind of test we’ve got ahead of us.

“We’re not taking it lightly. These guys are really, really good. So we know we’ve gotta play really well to win this game.”

Kickoff between Kansas State and Texas is set for noon ET on Saturday in Austin.