Kansas vs Kansas State head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 7, Saturday, October 17, 2026.
The Breakdown
Kansas State's 64 composite edges Kansas' 60, and Avery Johnson's 4★ arm is the difference.
When Kansas has the ball: The 3.2★ O-line faces Kansas State's 3.5★ D-line — Wendell Gregory and Jordan Allen headline at 4★.
When Kansas State has the ball: 3.3★ receivers, led by 4★ Josh Manning, against Kansas' 3.0★ secondary. Slim but real edge.
Swing factor: QB duel: Johnson at 4★ and three years, Isaiah Marshall 3★ with two. Biggest gap on the field.
X-factor: Sunflower Showdown in Manhattan, Saturday in October, with Kansas State laying 8.5 at home.