The excitement is palpable as the Rate Bowl approaches, featuring the Rutgers Scarlet Knights taking on the Kansas State Wildcats. Scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 PM ET, this thrilling matchup will unfold at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona, with live coverage available on ESPN. Kansas State enters the game as a 7-point favorite, with the over/under set at 51.5, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.
Current Momentum and Injury Concerns
Kansas State, however, is facing challenges as they come into this game on a downward trend, having lost three of their last four contests. This losing streak could have implications for their performance in the Rate Bowl. Adding to their troubles, the Wildcats will be without their star running back, DJ Giddens, who has rushed for an impressive 1,343 yards and scored seven touchdowns this season. Giddens has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving a significant gap in the Wildcats’ offensive strategy.
On the other hand, Rutgers is looking to capitalize on Kansas State’s struggles. The Scarlet Knights have shown resilience and determination throughout the season, and they will undoubtedly aim to exploit the Wildcats’ weaknesses. With both teams eager to claim victory, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter.
Kansas State’s Projected Starting Lineup
As we delve deeper into the specifics, let’s take a closer look at Kansas State’s projected starting lineup and depth chart for the Rate Bowl.
Offensive Positions
- QB (Quarterback): Avery Johnson (Starter), Ta’Quan Roberson (2nd), Jacob Knuth (3rd)
- RB (Running Back): DJ Giddens (Doubtful), Dylan Edwards (2nd), Joe Jackson (3rd), La’James White (4th)
- WR-X (Wide Receiver X): Keagan Johnson (Questionable), Jadon Jackson (2nd), Ty Bowman (3rd)
- WR-Z (Wide Receiver Z): Dante Cephas (Starter), Tre Spivey (Doubtful)
- WR-SL (Slot Receiver): Jayce Brown (Starter)
- LT (Left Tackle): Easton Kilty (Starter)
- LG (Left Guard): Hadley Panzer (Starter)
- C (Center): Sam Hecht (Starter)
- RG (Right Guard): Taylor Poitier (Starter)
- RT (Right Tackle): Drake Bequeaith (Starter)
- TE (Tight End): Garrett Oakley (Starter), Will Swanson (2nd), Brayden Loftin (3rd), Will Anciaux (4th), Andrew Metzger (5th)
Defensive Positions
- LDE (Left Defensive End): Cody Stufflebean (Starter)
- NT (Nose Tackle): Damian Ilalio (Starter), Uso Seumalo (2nd), Asher Tomaszewski (3rd)
- DT (Defensive Tackle): Travis Bates (Starter)
- RDE (Right Defensive End): Brendan Mott (Starter), Tobi Osunsanmi (2nd), Ryan Davis (3rd)
- WLB (Weak-Side Linebacker): Austin Moore (Starter), Rex Van Wyhe (2nd), Zach Wittenberg (3rd)
- MLB (Middle Linebacker): Austin Romaine (Starter), Beau Palmer (2nd), Terry Kirksey Jr. (3rd)
- SLB (Strong-Side Linebacker): Desmond Purnell (Starter)
- LCB (Left Cornerback): Jacob Parrish (Starter)
- SS (Strong Safety): VJ Payne (Starter), Colby McCalister (2nd), Wesley Fair (3rd)
- JS (Jack Safety): Jordan Riley (Starter)
- FS (Free Safety): Marques Sigle (Starter), Nickendre Stiger (2nd), Daniel Cobbs (3rd)
- RCB (Right Cornerback): Keenan Garber (Starter), Jordan Dunbar (2nd), Donovan McIntosh (3rd)
Special Teams
- PT (Punter): Simon McClannan (Starter)
- PK (Placekicker): Chris Tennant (Starter)
- KO (Kickoff Specialist): Chris Tennant (Starter)
- LS (Long Snapper): Mason Olguin (Starter)
- H (Holder): Simon McClannan (Starter)
- PR (Punt Returner): Dylan Edwards (Starter), Sterling Lockett (2nd), Jacob Parrish (3rd)
- KR (Kick Returner): Jayce Brown (Starter), Dylan Edwards (2nd), Keagan Johnson (Questionable)
Injuries are a significant concern for Kansas State, with several key players listed as questionable or doubtful. Keagan Johnson (WR) is marked as questionable, while Tre Spivey (WR) is doubtful. Additionally, Carver Willis (RT) is out, and DJ Giddens (RB) is also doubtful. These absences could heavily influence the Wildcats’ game plan and overall execution.
What to Expect in the Rate Bowl
As the Rate Bowl approaches, fans are left wondering how these injury concerns will impact Kansas State’s performance. Will they be able to rally together and overcome the odds, or will Rutgers seize the opportunity to outshine their opponents? The anticipation is building, and both teams have much to prove on this prestigious stage.
With the stakes high and the atmosphere electric, this matchup promises to deliver thrilling moments and unforgettable plays. College football fans should prepare for an exciting showdown that could very well determine the momentum heading into the offseason for both programs.
In the world of college football, every game matters, and the Rate Bowl is no exception. Will Kansas State rise to the occasion, or will Rutgers pull off an upset? Tune in to find out!