By Jayson Henderson

Kansas State’s hopes of staying in the Big 12 Championship race took a hit with a 24-14 loss to Arizona State on Saturday at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Wildcats fell behind 24-0 before rallying for two second-half touchdowns but couldn’t complete the comeback.

Arizona State, now 8-2 overall and 5-2 in the Big 12, built a commanding 21-0 halftime lead behind quarterback Sam Leavitt, who threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Jordyn Tyson was a key target, finishing with 12 catches for 176 yards and two scores.

K-State’s offense struggled early, with quarterback Avery Johnson throwing two interceptions. Despite a strong second-half performance, which included rushing touchdowns by Johnson and Joe Jackson, the Wildcats couldn’t overcome their early deficit.

Running back DJ Giddens led K-State’s ground game with 133 yards on 14 carries, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards for the season.

The Wildcats, now 7-3 overall and 4-3 in the Big 12, will face Cincinnati on Senior Day in their next game.