With both Baylor and Kansas State looking to make a statement in the Big 12 this Saturday, the outside voices are watching closely to see if the Bears can keep building momentum or if the Wildcats’ physical style will dictate the night.
The Gold Out Energy
Baylor Athletics set the tone early in the week, announcing that Saturday will be a “Gold Out” in McLane Stadium. That kind of move isn’t just about the fans in the stands — it’s about branding this game as special.
Health Is a Factor
As always in the Big 12 grind, injuries matter. SicEm365 posted the Baylor injury report earlier this week, highlighting just how thin certain spots have become. That could be a major factor against a Kansas State team known for depth and physicality.
The Wildcats aren’t at full strength either. Local reports out of Manhattan noted that multiple K-State receivers and defensive linemen remain out, meaning both sidelines will have to adapt on the fly. It isn’t often that this matchup feels like a battle of attrition, but Saturday has that edge.
Kansas State’s Toughness
If there’s one theme you hear from analysts, it’s toughness. Kansas State’s program is built on it, and they aren’t shying away from that identity. Avery Johnson has started to use his legs more at quarterback, Dylan Edwards gives them real explosiveness at running back, and the offensive line — even with a few injuries — still sets the tone.
Baylor’s defense, which has shown flashes of progress this season, will be asked to prove it against a unit that loves to lean on the run and test physicality at the line of scrimmage.
The Matchup Everyone’s Watching
From an X’s and O’s standpoint, Kansas State has evolved since last year. Analysts note the Wildcats are using more empty sets and disguise in the passing game, giving Johnson easier reads while keeping defenses on their heels. Baylor’s secondary has been improving, but this is a different kind of challenge.
On the flip side, Baylor’s offense will have chances to attack a K-State secondary that isn’t at full strength. The question from the outside world is simple: Will Sawyer Robertson and this Baylor receiving corps take advantage?
The Stakes
The spread sits in Baylor’s favor (-6.5), and if the Bears can take care of business against the Wildcats, they push themselves higher in the Big 12 conversation. Slip, and the questions about consistency, home struggles and identity will grow louder, as Dave Aranda’s seat heats up again.
Either way, the Web agrees: Saturday is an opportunity for Baylor to show everyone exactly who they are.
