Army vs Kansas State Picks and Predictions — September 6, 2025
The Kansas State Wildcats narrowly avoided disaster in Week 2, sneaking past FCS North Dakota with a last-minute touchdown. Now, they’ll look sharper against the visiting Army Black Knights on Saturday night in Manhattan, Kan.
Army is coming off a stunning double-overtime loss to Tarleton State, where missed field goals cost them dearly. Both programs have plenty to clean up heading into this matchup.
Want informed college football picks from the sharpest minds? Check the latest leaderboard →
Kansas State Can Win If…
Quarterback Avery Johnson kept the Wildcats afloat with 318 passing yards and three touchdowns against North Dakota, including the game-winning strike with less than a minute to play. Kansas State’s biggest issue was defensive inconsistency, allowing 35 points to an FCS opponent.
Head coach Chris Klieman acknowledged the mixed performance but praised his team’s grit:
“I was pleased with the way we finished the game … but I was disappointed. I was happy that the guys found the resolve to find a way to win.”
If the Wildcats clean up defensive lapses and Johnson continues to shine, they should handle Army.
Army Can Win If…
The Black Knights let a 14-point second-half lead slip away last week, losing in double overtime to Tarleton State. Missed kicks hurt, but the offense behind Dewayne Coleman showed potential — he rushed 24 times for 100 yards and a score while adding 129 passing yards.
Head coach Jeff Monken knows execution will be the difference:
“They completely outplayed us. Unfortunately, we didn’t do the things it takes to win a football game.”
If Army’s option attack can control the tempo and keep Johnson off the field, they’ll have a chance to spring the upset.
Key College Football Betting Trends
Category | Kansas State Wildcats | Army Black Knights |
---|---|---|
Record | 1-1 (beat North Dakota 38-35) | 0-1 (lost to Tarleton State 30-27, 2OT) |
QB Outlook | Avery Johnson: 318 pass yds, 3 TD | Dewayne Coleman: 100 rush yds, 129 pass yds |
Offensive Identity | Pass-first with Johnson’s arm | Run-heavy option offense |
Defensive Outlook | Allowed 35 to FCS opponent | Allowed late comeback, special teams struggles |
Series History | KSU leads, rare matchup | Seeking first win vs Wildcats |
The Lean
Model Projection: Kansas State 34, Army 20
Pick: Kansas State – Spread
Total Lean: Over 51
Kansas State was shaky against North Dakota but still has the superior roster and quarterback. Army’s option offense may chew clock and frustrate the Wildcats early, but Kansas State’s balance should prove too much over four quarters. For more insights, check our NCAAF Betting Predictions hub.
College football Saturdays bring big opportunities—don’t miss out. Explore more expert picks here →