Although Kansas State had a strong defense the previous season, they had trouble shutting down strong offenses when it mattered most.
Kansas State is expected to have a dynamic offensive this season that opposing teams will want to contain. Defenses will exert every effort to slow down the attack and obstruct the Wildcats’ chances of winning the Big 12 this season, since they are the clear favorites to accomplish so.
What are the toughest defenses Kansas State will face in 2024? We know which positions will be the hardest on the team.
In 2024, the Big 12 will be home to many excellent defenses, and Kansas State will have to contend with them. These three defenses rank among the hardest that K-State will encounter in 2024.
3 Cowboys of Oklahoma State
Oklahoma State Cowboys emblem
Last season, Oklahoma State’s running game gained more notoriety, but its defense wasn’t to be laughed at either. In 2023, the Cowboys led the Big 12 in interceptions (20), recovering four of them for touchdowns. They also led the league in forced fumbles (12) and fumble recoveries (10).
With a sizable defensive backfield, the Cowboys should have another elite defense that can compel mistakes. The young quarterback, Avery Johnson, who is now the full-time starter, may be more likely to rush passes or get out of the pocket and flip the ball over.
Two Jayhawks from Kansas
Kansas Jayhawks emblem
This is a difficult game for Kansas State, and their defense will be difficult just because Kansas is a foe. Teams usually give it their all on the field, but when facing a competitor, they always appear to give it their all to earn the right to brag.
Last season, the Jayhawks’ defense was strong, finishing second in the Big 12 in forced fumbles (11) and fourth in interceptions (14) overall. This season, Cobee Bryant, a cornerback who made the first team all-conference in 2023, will be back, and he should be the leader of this formidable defense. Now that they have an all-star offense at their disposal, the defense can play with ease.
Iowa State Cyclones (1)
Iowa State Cyclones emblem
Kansas State will likely play against Iowa State’s toughest defense of the whole season as they close up the campaign. The Cyclones had an incredible 2023 season, finishing third in the Big 12 for scoring defense and second in the league with 16 interceptions.
The Cyclones’ defense was their bulwark throughout the previous season due to their offense’s sluggish start, and it will continue to be so in 2024. With Texas and Oklahoma departing for the SEC in 2024, the Cyclones should have one of, if not the strongest, defenses in the Big 12 in 2023.
When the Wildcats play Iowa State, Johnson will have had a full season of experience, but he still needs to be ready for a tough defense that can get below the line and immediately get after him.
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