On Saturday, following the Jayhawks’ third and final bye week of the season, head coach Lance Leipold and his team are still in the position to finish off the 2025 season on a very positive note. As it stands, Kansas must win one of its final two games in order to qualify for a bowl game this season. If Leipold can do so, it would be his third bowl appearance in four years with the Jayhawks.
The two opportunities that remain: an away trip to Ames, Iowa, for a matchup against the Iowa State Cyclones, and a homestand against the No. 13 Utah Utes.
Prior to Leipold’s arrival at KU, the last time Kansas saw the postseason was in 2008. Perhaps Leipold has slightly become a victim of his own success. After three years with the program, fans had seen year-on-year improvements. While a 10-12 record over the last two seasons has seen a slight plateau, it is important to remember where the Jayhawks were prior to the former Buffalo coach’s arrival.
Kansas vs Iowa State Full Guide: When, where, TV, streaming, odds, weather, more
Heading into this weekend’s potentially bowl-securing matchup, defensive coordinator D.K. McDonald spoke about the multiple tight ends that the Cyclones take on any given play, while also giving a nod that should make Kansas fans slightly worry.
”...That's very uncommon in college football nowadays, and the tight ends that they put out there are really good. I think number 18's the best tight end in the conference. And so he's a tough matchup.”
McDonald went on to describe Iowa State’s offense as “old school” and “smash mouth,” calling it a stray away from the Big 12, which has moved into a more spread setup.
McDonald is referring to Cyclone Benjamin Brahmer. Brahmer has become one of the nation’s best receiving tight ends, having ranked fifth in the Big 12 in reception yardage for the position. Brahmer has totaled 388 yards, for 11.7 yards per catch and a bruising five touchdowns.
Brahmer’s strong hands and solid speed for his size make him a valuable asset in any passing attack. The Nebraska native is listed at 6-foot-7 and 255 pounds, which makes him hard to bring down on first attempt.
This season, Kansas’ passing attack has shown both highs and lows, making their 63rd rank in the nation with 220.6 passing yards allowed per game confirm that status.
Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT with streaming available on Fox Sports One.
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