Phoenix, AZ—-Kansas State faced a significant challenge heading into the Rate Bowl as standout running back DJ Giddens, one of the premier rushers in the Big 12, opted out to prepare for the NFL draft. But freshman Dylan Edwards stepped up in spectacular fashion, proving the Wildcats were in capable hands.
Edwards delivered a stellar performance, rushing for 196 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including a pivotal 36-yard run in the fourth quarter. His heroics propelled Kansas State to a thrilling 44-41 comeback win over Rutgers on Thursday night.
“Dylan and the younger guys really showed their talent tonight,” said Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman. “They just needed the confidence and belief, and they found it.”
Early Struggles Turned Comeback
The Wildcats (9-4) overcame a shaky start against the Scarlet Knights (7-6). Rutgers built a 10-point halftime lead and extended it to 34-17 early in the second half with Ja’shon Benjamin’s 7-yard touchdown reception. However, Kansas State found its rhythm and mounted a determined rally.
Edwards ignited the comeback with a 65-yard touchdown run, followed by an interception by Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis. Kansas State capitalized with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Avery Johnson to Garrett Oakley, narrowing the deficit to five. Failed two-point conversions kept the Wildcats trailing but within striking distance.
Rutgers temporarily regained control, extending their lead to 41-29 on Antwan Raymond’s 1-yard touchdown run, a clever play off a fake quarterback sneak. But Kansas State refused to back down.
Johnson connected with Jadon Jackson for a 9-yard touchdown pass before Edwards sealed the game with his electrifying 36-yard scoring run, capping an unforgettable night for the freshman.
“We practiced those plays over the past two weeks,” Edwards said. “I just focused on doing my job, and it paid off.”
Rutgers’ Late Push Falls Short
Despite Kansas State’s surge, Rutgers had a final chance to rally. The Scarlet Knights advanced to the Wildcats’ 44-yard line but faltered, gaining only three more yards before turning the ball over on downs with under two minutes to play.
“I tell the players: If you give your all, you can hold your head high, even in disappointment,” said Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano. “This team gave everything they had but fell just short.”
Rutgers also missed its star running back, Kyle Monangai, who opted out to prepare for the NFL draft. In his absence, Antwan Raymond stepped up, rushing for 113 yards and three touchdowns. Kaliakmanis threw for 237 yards and a touchdown but struggled with accuracy, completing just 14 of 32 passes and tossing a critical interception.
After a dominant first half with 319 yards of offense, Rutgers managed only 82 yards in the second half as Kansas State’s defense tightened.
“They controlled the second half with their adjustments on both sides of the ball,” Schiano said.
Johnson’s Record-Breaking Night
Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson silenced critics with a standout performance. The sophomore threw for 195 yards and three touchdowns, completing 15 of 30 passes, and added 57 rushing yards and a touchdown. His fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Jackson was his 25th of the season, setting a new school record.
“He’s got the talent and work ethic to match,” said Kansas State linebacker Austin Moore. “He’s only going to get better.”
Key Takeaways
Kansas State: The Wildcats’ defense struggled early but delivered when it mattered, shutting down Rutgers in the second half. Dylan Edwards shined in place of Giddens, amassing 223 total yards, including the game-winning touchdown.
Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights had victory within reach but were undone by defensive lapses in the second half. Despite the loss, Raymond impressed in Monangai’s absence, and the team showed flashes of promise.
Kansas State’s resilience and Edwards’ breakout performance will leave fans optimistic as the team looks to build on this thrilling victory.
