As the Arizona Wildcats prepare to host the Kansas State Wildcats in Week 3 of the 2025 regular season, both teams look to make a strong impression. Arizona, coming off an impressive 48-3 victory over Weber State, remains undefeated with a 2-0 record. The game is scheduled to be played at Arizona Stadium in Tucson, Arizona, a setting where the home team has yet to falter this season. Kansas State enters this game with a 1-2 record, having faced tough competition in the early weeks. Despite a recent 24-21 loss to Army at home, Kansas State showed resilience in their previous games, including a narrow win against North Dakota. The Wildcats from Kansas will aim to secure their first road victory of the season under the Friday night lights. Broadcasting on FOX, this game offers Arizona a chance to extend their home winning streak, while Kansas State seeks redemption on the road. With the spread slightly favoring Arizona at -1.5, fans can expect a competitive encounter between these Big 12 conference foes. The game also presents an interesting over/under line set at 54.5, hinting at potential high-scoring action.
Arizona vs Kansas State At a Glance
- Game Date & Time: Friday, September 12, 2025, at 9:00 PM
- Venue: Arizona Stadium in Tucson, AZ
- TV Channel: FOX
- Game Odds: Arizona is slightly favored with a moneyline of -114
- Current Records: Kansas State 1-2, Arizona 2-0
- Total Points Over/Under: Set at 54.5 points
Arizona Wildcats: A Glimpse into the 2025 Football Season
Offensive Performance
The Arizona Wildcats have shown a significant improvement in their offensive game compared to the previous season. With 88 points scored so far, they rank 14th, a considerable jump from the 89th position last season.
Passing yards have reached a total of 567, ranking them 30th, indicating a more dynamic passing strategy. This is bolstered by their strong performance in first downs, where they stand 17th with 47.
Defensive Strengths
On the defensive front, the Wildcats have been formidable, allowing just 9 points, placing them 3rd in this category. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks is reflected in their 7 sacks, ranking 4th overall.
The Wildcats’ secondary has been equally effective, registering 5 interceptions, the 6th best in the nation. Their aggressive defense is further highlighted by 2 fumble recoveries, placing them 4th in this category.
Quarterback Leadership
Noah Fifita has been instrumental in leading the Wildcats’ offense, with 534 passing yards ranking him 26th nationally. He has thrown 6 touchdowns without any interceptions, showcasing his efficiency and precision.
In terms of fantasy points, Fifita has accumulated 50.3 points, positioning him as the top quarterback on the team. His performance will be crucial as the Wildcats advance through the season.
Running Backs and Receivers
Quincy Craig is making a significant impact in the running game with 156 rushing yards, ranking 65th. His contributions include 1 rushing touchdown, and he has also been involved in the passing game with 1 reception.
Javin Whatley leads the receiving corps with 8 receptions and 206 receiving yards, ranking 27th nationally. His 2 receiving touchdowns highlight his role as a key target in the Wildcats’ passing attack.
Team Betting Trends
- The Wildcats have covered the spread in their last two games.
- They have hit the over in their last two games.
- The Wildcats have a winning record at home this season.
Kansas State Wildcats Set for a Tough Challenge on the Road
Offensive Overview
The Kansas State Wildcats have demonstrated a strong passing game so far this season, ranking 5th with 763 passing yards. Avery Johnson has been a key contributor, showing impressive passing stats and maintaining a high level of performance.
The ground game, however, has been less effective, with the Wildcats ranked 63rd in rushing yards. DeVon Rice and Joe Jackson are leading the efforts, but there’s room for improvement to complement their passing attack.
Defensive Insights
Defensively, Kansas State has struggled, allowing 83 points, placing them at 67th in points against. Despite this, their ability to pressure the quarterback is notable, as they are ranked 3rd in sacks with eight already this season.
The defense has yet to record an interception, which is an area needing attention if they aim to disrupt opponents’ passing games more effectively. The Wildcats have been efficient in recovering fumbles, sitting at 3rd with three recoveries, showing a knack for capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.
Recent Performances
Kansas State had a challenging start to the season with a narrow victory over North Dakota but suffered close losses against Army and Iowa State. In their win against North Dakota, their passing game shined, but the defense allowed 35 points, highlighting areas to tighten up.
The Wildcats’ performance against Army was a defensive struggle, giving up 237 rushing yards. They need to find a balance between their offensive output and defensive stability to enhance their chances of success.
Key Players
Avery Johnson leads the offensive charge with his standout passing abilities, ranking 1st on the team and showing his potential to change games. Jayce Brown has been a reliable target in the receiving corps, contributing significantly with 19 receptions and 216 receiving yards.
On the defensive side, consistent sack production will be vital, and players like Ryan Davis and Asher Tomaszewski, if available, could be pivotal in sustaining pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- ATS Last 3: 3-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- SU in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS in Away Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
Arizona vs Kansas State Prediction: Arizona -1.5
Arizona has started the season strong with a 2-0 record, showcasing a solid home performance. Their defense has been exceptional, allowing only 9 points across two games, which ranks third nationally. This defensive prowess gives them a significant edge over Kansas State, who has struggled with a 1-2 record and an 0-1 road record.
Kansas State has a high-powered passing offense, ranked 5th with 763 yards, but their defensive struggles are evident as they’ve allowed 83 points, ranking 67th. Arizona’s balanced offense, with 88 points scored and a top-30 passing attack, can exploit Kansas State’s defensive weaknesses. This combination of strong home defense and balanced offense makes Arizona -1.5 an appealing pick.
The line of Arizona -1.5 suggests a close game, but Arizona’s defensive efficiency at home and Kansas State’s road struggles tip the scales in favor of the home team. Arizona’s ability to maintain control on both sides of the ball could prove decisive in this contest. Expect Arizona to continue their strong start with a win in front of their home crowd.
Projecting a final score, Arizona’s defense should contain Kansas State’s offense enough to secure a victory. The prediction is that Arizona will win with a final score of 28-24, covering the spread comfortably.
- Arizona vs Kansas State Prediction: Arizona -1.5
- Arizona vs Kansas State Score: Arizona 28 – Kansas State 24
