A recent story from Bookies.com reveals just how grueling Big 12 travel will be in 2025.
According to data compiled via Google Earth, Kansas State will cover a staggering 13,389.5 miles and cross 18 time zones, more than any other team in the conference.
The workload begins in Ireland, where Kansas State and Iowa State kick off the season on August 23. That transatlantic trip already racks up 8,254 miles and spans 12 time zones alone. After returning stateside, Wildcats face long hauls across the country, including a late-season trip to Utah, stacking miles and jet lag week after week.
BYU tops the miles-traveled list overall, crossing 14 time zones and covering 13,528.6 miles, but Kansas State’s 18-zone trek stands out as the most drastic strain. Even the shortest trips are notable, as Kansas State’s shortest road game still covers nearly 85 miles.
This kind of travel isn’t just inconvenient; it can create competitive disadvantages. Cross-country and international flights disrupt game preparation, recovery, and body adjustments. Coaches and trainers often cite travel as a hidden factor in late-season fatigue. For Kansas State, that means every week on the road is a marathon, not just a game.
In an era where conference realignment has expanded league footprints, travel is becoming a defining challenge. Big 12 leaders have voiced concerns about scheduling quirks, but for teams like Kansas State, foot-to-the-floor travel may determine midseason stamina and playoff positioning.
With a schedule that pushes the boundaries of travel, Kansas State’s resilience and preparation will be tested long before the conference title game. If the Wildcats can endure those 18 time zones without losing focus, they might convert travel toughness into a competitive edge.
