When the Kansas Jayhawks take take to Ames, Iowa this weekend, not only will Kansas be taking on one of the game’s best program builders in Matt Campbell. The Jayhawks will also be squaring off against an elite quarterback in Rocco Becht.
Earlier Monday, head coach Lance Leipold sat down with the media and spoke about the ability of the Cyclone quarterback.
“Rocco Becht’s an excellent quarterback. I've always enjoyed watching him play. I just think as far as a guy who's very consistent, operates the way they want him to operate that offense. It's been impressive.”
This season, Becht’s form has seen a drop-off from his stellar two seasons prior. During Becht’s 2023 and 24 season, the class of 2022 prospect had taken the nation by storm. Becht amassed 48 touchdowns to just 17 interceptions. This season, his numbers have plateaued and seen Becht toss 12 touchdowns to nine interceptions, but Becht has shown an ability to still be able to compete with the best quarterbacks in the nation, as the entire Cyclone team has taken a step back.
Iowa State’s passing offense ranks 74th in the nation with just 221.9 passing yards per game. However, Becht has also shown an innate ability to make plays on the ground when needed. This season, Becht has totaled eight rushing touchdowns, placing him 77th in the nation in total touchdowns on the ground alone.
This season, D.K. McDonald’s passing defense can best be described as middle of the pack. The defense allows 220.3 yards per game through the air, which sits smack at 63rd in the nation. It is very much worth noting that Kansas has seen some of this season’s elite quarterbacks in Beau Pribula, Brendan Sorsby, Behren Morton, and Avery Johnson, which shows that this squad is battle-tested. The question is, just how ready will this team be in a packed Jack Trice Stadium?
Kickoff is set for 11 AM CT, with streaming available on Fox Sports One.
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