Game Balls: Jason Bean (QB), Devin Neal (RB), Quentin Skinner (WR)
It probably isn’t the best look to give all three game balls to offensive players, but can you blame us? Nobody stepped up on defense, and they surrendered some big plays to a lowly FCS team. After all, this team will only go as far as the offense takes it.
Jason Bean
Bean stepped in and did exactly what was needed of him with Jalon Daniels out. He threw for 276 yards and a pair of touchdowns, making *mostly* good reads on the defense. Might it have been a different story against a team like Illinois? Without a question. He’ll need to play better if he’s given the starting nod this week, but his ability to step in last minute and still get the job done should be applauded by Kansas football fans.
Devin Neal
This one should come as no surprise. He kicked off the 2023 season with a long touchdown run, finishing with 119 scrimmage yards and an additional score through the air on a crucial fourth-down play. Neal looked as quick as ever and made some nasty cuts. He’ll be one of the few constants on the offense if he can stay healthy.
Quentin Skinner
After Luke Grimm went down, someone in the wide receiver corps needed to step up. That someone was Skinner. He caught three passes for 59 yards in the second half, including a jump ball 47-yard grab. His strong performance tied him for the team lead in receiving yards. He and Lawrence Arnold were torching Missouri State defensive backs all night long.