As it turns out, the early warning signs for No. 20 Arizona were legitimate concerns, as they didn’t appear to be in the same league as No. 14 Kansas State, which lost 31-7.

Though Arizona was a touchdown underdog, it was expected to contend for the Big 12’s top seed alongside its opponent, and other teams like No. 13 Oklahoma State and No. 12 Utah. This game didn’t inspire much confidence that first-year head coach Brent Brennan has his Wildcats ready to do that.

Arizona’s lack of discipline was a major problem, as they committed nine penalties for 74 yards. A 14-7 halftime deficit felt like it could have been a lot worse, and that seven-point lead that Kansas State tripled to 28-7 after three quarters pretty much sealed the fate of the game.

Missed opportunities in the first half defined the offense’s day. Quarterback Noah Fifita on a third down early in the second quarter had star wideout Tetairoa McMillan in the slot running a multi-option route. But an unexpected mix-up for the duo lauded for their chemistry led to an incomplete pass instead of what could have been a long gain that McMillan could have converted into a touchdown.

On the next play, a bad punt from substitute kicker Tyler Loop helped Kansas State’s Dylan Edwards run the ball back 71 yards for a touchdown. It was a two-touchdown swing in just two plays.

On the next drive, Fifita had an open receiver in the slot heading for the end zone, but his slightly late read and the ball sailing a bit gave Kansas State defensive back Keenan Garber enough time to get to the ball and intercept.

In terms of style, the matchup was an Arizona team that primarily ran through the air against a fearsome Kansas State rushing attack, and it wasn’t close as to which force was, uh, stronger. Kansas State was +179 in rushing yards while Arizona was +112 in passing yards, thanks in large part to the fourth quarter. Kansas State averaged 5.7 yards per carry.

McMillan was a key factor again in the game after a confusing two-catch outing the week before, catching 11 passes for 138 yards, the only successful element of Arizona’s offense.

Arizona will take a week off before playing another road game, this time against the Utah Utes on September 28.

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