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The last four seasons' battles between WVU and Kansas State have been nailbiters decided in the final minutes. But this time the Mountaineers totally dominated the Wildcats in coasting to a 35-6 victory.
After having an off week following the weather cancellation of the game at North Carolina State, the West Virginia offense had to shake off some rust as evident by two turnovers in Kansas State territory on its first two possessions. But on the third possession, Will Grier hit Marcus Simms in stride for an 82 yard touchdown and WVU remained in control thereafter.
The Wildcats were only down by that initial 7-0 score with about five minutes remaining in the first half when they made the curious decision not to punt in their own territory on fourth down. The short yardage running play was blown up by the West Virginia defense, giving the Mountaineer offense a short field which they quickly converted into another score. Then a three and out by Kansas State set Will Grier and his receivers up for another impressive 7 play 73 yard touchdown drive in just 55 seconds to give WVU a comfortable 21-0 halftime lead.
Mountaineer lightning struck again early in the second half with a 62 yard bomb from Grier to Tevin Bush. Then after a Kansas State fumble another short field gave WVU a second score within a three minute span and the game was far out of reach.
Special teams are an area where Kansas State has excelled over the Mountaineers in the past, but the WVU kick coverage and overall special teams play was solid.
The West Virginia defense played an exceptional game throughout, but it was apparent that the Wildcats were offensively challenged so fans remain uncertain as yet to the strength and quality of the defensive unit. Facing a high octane offense will give us more insight, and with the upcoming road trip this week we will soon find out more.
THIS SATURDAY: When WVU fans looked at the 2018 conference schedule it was apparent that the tougher games against the top of the conference were end loaded in the final four consecutive weeks. But initial appearances can be deceiving, and Texas Tech proved that to be the case with an impressive 41-17 upset at Oklahoma State, which followed a 63-point outburst against Houston the preceding week. So suddenly the battle at Lubbock this Saturday shapes up as key game for both squads.
The Mountaineers have won the last three meetings against the Red Raiders, including a 22-point fourth quarter comeback in Morgantown last season. But this first true road game of the season against a confident and prolific offense will make extending that streak difficult indeed. Hold on to your seats for this one, as it should be a roller coaster ride.
WEST VIRGINIA 45 TEXAS TECH 42.