Rapid Recap: Kansas State defensive standouts through two games
Looking to improve
It is no secret the Kansas State secondary did not have a strong performance Saturday versus Tulane. The Green Wave threw for for 342 yards and K-State had some coverage busts along the way. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman explained the issues were not communication-related.
Rather, it was eye discipline, and he needs to do a better job of making sure everyone knows where to line up and what they should be doing.
The Kansas State secondary has really attacked the week this week in practice. They have lots of confidence and pride. They know they can be better than they were versus Tulane, and Klanderman admitted he knows he can be better as well.
Challenges with Arizona’s offense
A unique twist with Arizona’s offense is the Wildcats like to run more plays under center. It is more pro style in the sense that under center is primarily how they operate.
What is also rare about the Arizona system is most teams that play under center have a tell on what the play will be based on alignment, but Arizona does not. Noah Fifita is not the most dangerous running quarterback, so they use the bootleg game to get him on the move.
K-State must control the line of scrimmage and take away the big play. Short passes can’t become long catch-and-runs.
Three Kansas State standouts
Three players came to mind for Klanderman when asked about which players have been excellent across both games thus far. He called Marques Sigle, Brendan Mott and Jacob Parrish all exceptional for their performance against UT-Martin and Tulane.
Klanderman, like Chris Klieman immediately after the game Saturday and again on Monday, credited Sigle with his leadership. The Kansas State defensive coordinator even went as far as to say he does not believe K-State beats Tulane without him stepping up and taking command of the team when adversity struck.
