The Arizona Wildcats get their first taste of the Big 12 in Week 3 against the Kansas State Wildcats.

It doesn’t count as a conference game because it was scheduled before the realignment, but it’s still hugely important for the new Big 12 member.

After an explosive win over the New Mexico Lobos in Week 1, Arizona struggled a bit in Week 2 against Northern Arizona. They still earned a win, but trailed the Lumberjacks at halftime.

That tougher than expected match saw them drop a few places in Chris Vannini’s rankings The Athletics.

He ranked all 134 college football teams and put the Wildcats at No. 25, down from No. 22. Northern Illinois, Nebraska, Boston College and Clemson all stood out with great or shocking performances in Week 2.

Arizona’s opponent this week is ranked No. 16 on his rankings.

They are also 2-0 this season and came from behind to pick up a come-from-behind win over the Tulane Green Wave in Week 2 at Yulman Stadium.

This is a big game for the Wildcats for a number of reasons.

Their defense has shown some holes in the first two weeks, but have they patched them up enough to handle the top-level competition they face in the league?

Offensively, quarterback Noah Fifita and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan have been one of the most productive duos in the country. McMillan had a record-setting performance against the Lobos with 10 receptions for 304 yards and four touchdowns.

Northern Arizona, however, managed to erase him from the game, allowing just two receptions for 11 yards. Without their star heavily involved, it was a grind for parts of the game offensively.

Running back Quali Conley answered the bell to lead the team with 112 rushing yards, adding five receptions for 38 yards. Kedrick Reescano added 71 yards on six rushes as the Wildcats got the job done on the ground.

That’s one of the ingredients for a successful trip to Manhattan.

If they can set the pace and get the production done by someone other than McMillan, they greatly increase their chances of winning.

But the coaching staff has to find ways to keep their talented pass catcher involved. He’s the team’s best playmaker and one of the most productive in the country, so getting the ball in his hands as often as possible can only lead to positive results.