Kansas State Defense Focusing On Washington State QB Caden Pinnick This Week

Kansas State Wildcats coach Collin Klein knows all about the quarterback position. 

He played it at a high level during his years as a player for the Wildcats during the early 2010s. So when he says a player at the position is talented, it's best to take his advice. 

That's why they are preparing so much to face Washington State Cougars quarterback Caden Pinnick this Saturday at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Kickoff is at 11 a.m. 

Here's what Klein had to say about Pinnick during his weekly press conference. 

"I think he's incredibly tough," Klein said. "That was a physical game yesterday afternoon just watching it on TV. He stood in there at times and made some big-time plays throwing the ball, getting hit under duress, and how he put the offense on his back and a couple of those drives to put the game in contest there early in the second half. I think he's a really, really good football player, and we have to have a good plan for him."

Pinnick struggled in last week's loss to the rival Washington Huskies. He completed 16 of 25 passes for 142 yards but had two interceptions with no touchdowns. The Wildcats are expecting a better effort this weekend. 

Last year Pinnick threw for 3,206 yards with 32 touchdowns against just 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 437 yards and three touchdowns. He is just as talented as some of the quarterbacks the Wildcats will see once Big 12 play opens, so this will serve as a tune-up. 

LATEST INJURY UPDATES 

The Wildcats received some good news on the injury front this week. 

Klein gave the media an update on linebacker Mekhi Mason, who sustained an unknown lower body injury in Saturday's win against Nicholls. 

Klein said Mason may return to the field sooner than later. 

"I don't think it's going to be as bad as what was maybe initially thought," Klein said. "So, very, very positive on that front."

MORE KANSAS STATE NEWS 

K-State coach Collin Klein continues to show love for his predecessor, Chris Klieman

Kansas State Wildcats add late player to defensive backfield

Here's the latest injury report on K-State starting linebacker

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Shandel Richardson is the publisher of KStateRoundtable. He can be reached at [email protected]