By Jayson Hendrson

In front of a sellout crowd at Bill Snyder Family Stadium, No. 18 Kansas State opened its season with a 41-6 victory over UT Martin. Running back D.J. Giddens led the way with 124 rushing yards on 13 carries, while quarterback Avery Johnson threw for 153 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

K-State led 17-3 at halftime but found its rhythm in the second half. Johnson connected with tight end Brayden Loftin for a 23-yard touchdown to open the scoring. Johnson also targeted roommate Jayce Brown, who caught five passes for 71 yards, including a 44-yard reception that set up a touchdown by sophomore transfer Dylan Edwards. Edwards added a second touchdown later, helping to extend the Wildcats’ lead.

K-State’s defense and special teams played a key role. Colby McCalister scored on a blocked punt by Ty Bowman, marking Bowman’s second career blocked punt returned for a touchdown. Chris Tennant also added a 43-yard field goal to round out the first-half scoring.

The Wildcats outgained the Skyhawks 449-134, with a dominant 283-36 advantage in rushing yards. K-State’s defense held UT Martin to just six points, both of which came off offensive turnovers.

K-State head coach Chris Klieman acknowledged the team’s need for improvement but was pleased with the win. “We needed a game like this. We were challenged, and our starters went into the fourth quarter,” Klieman said. “We have some work to do, but we’ll learn and grow from this.”

K-State will look to build on this victory as they prepare for a tough road game next week.