CBS Sports analyst Danny Kanell has released his College Football Playoff projections, and the Big 12’s path runs through Kansas State.
Kanell tabbed the Wildcats as the league’s representative in his 12-team bracket, giving them the No. 7 seed in the field.
Kansas State enters 2025 viewed as one of the most stable programs in the Big 12. With Avery Johnson set to lead the offense, the Wildcats return a dynamic quarterback who has already proven himself capable of running the show at a high level. Johnson’s dual-threat ability, paired with a physical run game and an experienced offensive line, has Kansas State positioned to compete with anyone on its schedule.
Kanell’s projection reflects that stability and the identity the Wildcats have built under head coach Chris Klieman. The program has leaned on disciplined defense, a strong culture, and physical play in the trenches to remain in the Big 12 title mix year after year. In the expanded playoff era, that foundation could make K-State one of the most reliable teams in the country.
The Wildcats have plenty of challenges ahead, with Iowa State, Baylor, Texas Tech, and Utah on their schedule, all of whom are projected to be contenders. Still, being listed as a top-10 seed in Kanell’s bracket underscores the national respect the Wildcats are earning as they prepare for the 2025 season.
For a Kansas State fan base eager to see its program break through on the national stage, Kanell’s projection is another sign that the Wildcats could be in line for their biggest year yet in the College Football Playoff era.
