Chris Klieman of Kansas State was overcome with emotion following a significant disappointment in the game against Utah.

Jeff Hauser

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Kansas State's Chris Klieman emotionally defeated after historic let down against Utah image

TL;DR

  • Kansas State lost to No. 12 Utah 51-47, bringing their record to 5-6.
  • Coach Chris Klieman defended his players and staff amidst criticism, citing a school-record 472 rushing yards.
  • Joe Jackson set a new Wildcats' single-game rushing record with 293 yards and three touchdowns.
  • Kansas State needs to beat Colorado on Nov. 29 to become bowl eligible.

Following a 51-47 defeat against No. 12 Utah, which brought the Wildcats' record to 5-6, Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman held an emotional press conference on Saturday.

Klieman stood by his players and staff following a week of criticism, pointing out that his team achieved a school-record 472 rushing yards and maintained a 12-point advantage with seven minutes left on the clock. Despite this, they ultimately lost the game. 

"We're down so many players, and I know a lot of people thought we'd come over here and lay down and that maybe the kids had cashed it in," Klieman said via ESPN.

I've heard the sentiment repeatedly. People say I've cashed it in, that the players have cashed it in, and that we require new leadership, new players, and new coaches. Frankly, I'm weary of it all. To be truthful, I'm tired of it.

"I've given my friggin'... Life for this place for seven years. I've given everything for seven years. And I think I deserve a little bit of respect. I'm frustrated like everybody else is, but I love those kids. And I'll go to friggin' battle with those kids any day."

K-State running back Joe Jackson set the Wildcats’ single-game rushing mark with 293 yards and three touchdowns. First FBS player with that stat line in a losing effort since 2018. The team piled up 574 total yards.

Utah scored 14 points in the final three minutes after returning an interception on a 2-point try to spark the comeback. Kansas State must beat Colorado on Nov. 29 to become bowl eligible.

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