Kansas State and Rutgers Prepare for Rate Bowl ClashPhoenix
The Wildcats and Scarlet Knights navigate player absences, transfer portal challenges, and bowl traditions ahead of Thursday's game.
- Kansas State (8-4) and Rutgers (7-5) will face off in the Rate Bowl on Thursday, marking the season's only Big 12 vs. Big Ten matchup.
- Kansas State enters the game without star running back DJ Giddens, who declared for the NFL Draft, while Rutgers' top rusher Kyle Monangai's participation remains uncertain.
- The Wildcats are led by quarterback Avery Johnson, who has accounted for 28 total touchdowns, while Rutgers relies on their balanced attack with QB Athan Kaliakmanis and RB Monangai.
- Kansas State is favored by 7 points, with predictions suggesting a close game; experts give the Wildcats a 66% chance of victory.
- This will be Kansas State's fifth appearance in the Rate Bowl, while Rutgers makes its second, nearly two decades after their last showing in the event.
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