Kansas football must improve offensively to keep up with Cyclones

Iowa State had some misfortune last week in a 24-21 loss to Oklahoma State, now Kansas football will host the Cyclones in an effort to capture a top 25  upset.

It’s highly likely that Kansas football will finish this season winless, despite having five remaining games on the schedule. The Jayhawks have suffered numerous injuries, the departure of their key rushing weapon, uncertainty at quarterback, and now a home test against the No. 23 Iowa State Cyclones.

As dark as this season has been, it’s important to look at what Kansas may have at their disposal coming into only their third home game of the year. The Jayhawks have seen slight increases in efficiency on defense, yet still lead the Big 12 in points allowed. If this change can sustain itself, at least early on enough to keep us in the game, the Jayhawks should see some opportunities to score.

We should expect Jalon Daniels to be starting this weekend, I don’t see any reason why he wouldn’t be, other than an injury. I haven’t seen any real chemistry between Daniels and our upperclassmen receivers though. It would be extremely beneficial if we could dial in both Lassiter and Daniels and see some big plays. Hopefully, Daniels gets more aquatinted to his receiving arsenal, even if most of our substantial weapons will be gone by next season.

For too long we have watched this offense go silent in games. This leads to Daniels making scramble plays that most of the time put him in a dangerous position, or more recently the end zone. The freshman scored two touchdowns in the Sunflower Showdown. This simply can’t be the go-to for the Jayhawks, it’s not reliable for our offense and it doesn’t work every time.

Iowa State’s defense is fifth in the Big 12 so far this season, with shortcomings falling into pocket pressure and passing coverage. If Kansas football’s offensive line can increase their stamina, we might find Daniels more time to move around and find a play. Our line is going to have to show up, however, especially if we expect to run the ball. Gardner has had a solid amount of touches and has posted some decent numbers this season. He has been given a substantial role on offense in Pooka’s absence.

Hopefully, the Jayhawks can channel some momentum early on, otherwise the Cyclones and Brock Purdy will be having a heyday at Kansas Memorial Stadium. The game is scheduled for 11:00 am, as ‘The Booth’ will be welcoming fans again vs. Iowa State. It might not be “farmageddon,” but you’ll see head coach Les Miles trying his best this Saturday.