Rapid recap: Key to the Kansas State red zone offense

Kansas State red zone offense

Kansas State has been one of the best teams in the country in scoring touchdowns in the red zone. K-State has scored 33 touchdowns in 40 red zone chances this season. Getting seven points has been an emphasis from the coaching staff.

The same goes for the defense who is No. 3 in touchdown rate allowed.

However, it was the offensive side of the ball that was very disappointed with how many field goals that they were settling for the past few years. And offensive coordinator Collin Klein gives credit to the players for embracing the mind-set to improve that element.

It takes a certain level of focus and is something they worked hard on in the offseason to get to where they are now. Klein was also quick to point out that it is something that Kansas State will need to continue to do this season. Finishing drives will be especially critical this week.

Running game

Texas has one of the best rush defenses in the country. The Longhorns are allowing just over three yards per carry on the season. K-State is one of the best teams in the country at being able to run the ball, so it is a case of strength versus strength.

That will be a phase to watch for on Saturday. Texas is long and physical up front, great at block destruction and has the pieces and tools to be very disruptive along the line of scrimmage. Kansas State has a tall task in front of them.

Being able to run the ball has also helped set up the passing game. In particular, Klein said the run game helps open throws to the tight end. Kansas State has been able to scheme up throws and opportunities for that position based on some of the schematics and formations they’re using.

Defensive uncertainty

It is another week and another game where K-State is facing a back-up quarterback. Quinn Ewers will not play on Saturday, meaning Maalik Murphy will be making his second career start for Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns.

Like head coach Chris Klieman on Tuesday, Kansas State defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman wishes the Wildcats had more tape on Murphy to know what Texas wants to do with him at the helm. Because of the small sample size, it is hard to tell what the plan is for the Longhorns.

Texas will still do what they do on offense, and Murphy is capable of running the offense, but there is an uncertainty in terms of the complexity that will be utilized by the Longhorn staff.

Praise for a K-State cornerback

K-State cornerback Keenan Garber took the most snaps last week among all the players at that position. Remember, Garber still has not played the position for a full season. Klanderman has been very pleased with the Lawrence native and said he is doing a great job.

The senior has been part of the improvement in the pass defense, along with Jacob Parrish and Will Lee. The more experience Garber gets, the better he continues to be.