“Man, I’m as excited as you guys are.”

That was K-State head coach Chris Klieman’s reply to a reporter who asked about quarterback Avery Johnson during Monday’s press conference. The Avery Johnson era is upon us, and even K-State’s head coach cannot wait to watch him on the field against UT Martin on Saturday. While UT Martin is no slouch (they have won three conference championships in a row) I expect K-State to take care of business against this FCS opponent. Here is what I will be looking for in the game that will give me confidence that K-State is ready to go out and win the Big 12 this season…

1) K-State starters build an early lead and can sit the starters by early in the third quarter.

Chris Klieman’s teams have sometimes struggled in the non-conference portion of their schedule. In 2020, the Wildcats lost the first game of the season to Arkansas State. In 2021, they beat FCS Southern Illinois by only eight points in their second game. In 2022, they lost to Tulane in the third game, and in 2023, they lost to Missouri in the third game. This K-State team must leave no doubt about who the better team is, especially since this may be their easiest game of the season.

2) Avery Johnson looks good.

I will be watching to see that Johnson has a good command of the offense, moves the team down the field, and scores touchdowns. Since this is the first game, a couple of field goals will be acceptable, but I expect the offense to “matriculate the ball down the field” with him under center. Throwing the ball accurately with no interceptions will also be a good sign.

3) DJ Giddens dominates.

This week, Avery Johnson referred to Giddens as “one of the best, if not the best, running back in college football.” I’m sure he was being hyperbolic and sticking up for his teammate. However, I do expect a big year from Giddens. Give me a hundred yards rushing and a benching by the third quarter.

4) A strong return game

Phillip Brooks has graduated, but there is a Lockett returning punts this season. Sophomore Sterling Lockett made the depth chart, along with Dylan Edwards, as the punt returner. Do I expect Lockett to take one to the house? No. Would I put it past him to do it? Also, no. On a side note, I watched games as a student when their Dads, Kevin and Leon, were out there playing for the Wildcats. It is neat to see their sons continue the tradition of great K-State football.

5) A shutdown defense

If K-State wants to win the Big 12 this season, the defense will have to play at the level where they left off last season, as the number two ranked defense in the league. There are enough returners on defense that they should be solid again. A dominating performance against UT Martin will give me confidence that the Wildcats are a contender to win the Big 12.

Prediction: K-State 48 UT Martin 16. See you there!