In Collin Klein's opening press conference, he talked about "living in physicality" and being the "new old school."
Well, he doubled down on those words in his latest interview.
"We’re gonna be a blue-collar outfit," Klein said in an interview with Big 12 Today. "We’re gonna work extremely hard, we’re gonna have a very high level of preparation, and we’re gonna be a disciplined, tough physical ball club. I think I’ve kind of said it a couple of times, but we’re gonna be the new old school. From a conditioning work winter program, summer program, fall camp, we’re gonna embody the values that have made this place successful for a very long time."
As Klein returned to the top position, he likely wants to re-establish the smash-mouth run style that's shaped Kansas State's identity. With a loaded backfield, Klein has the potential of a three-headed monster to complement quarterback Avery Johnson. A more respected rushing attack will not only emphasize the play-action passing but also give the Wildcats a plethora of looks for Klein to work with.
Kansas State wants to re-establish this after a disappointing 2025 season. Beyond just falling below the conference championship expectations, it was one of the most miserable seasons in recent memory from an identity standpoint. The usual staple of consistency and grit was trampled defensively and through the rushing disparity. As someone all too familiar with the Wildcats' culture, Klein wants to bring back that old-school feel that has shaped the program.
“We’re gonna be the new old school," Klein said in his opening press conference. "We’re gonna stay true to a value system that’s been in place for a long time. We’re gonna move our program forward and take the steps necessary to chase excellence in everything we do. We’re gonna love our players. We’re gonna be elite relationship builders that strive and scratch and claw to make sure that we know that we, myself, and our staff have their backs no matter what. And make sure to help them become the best they can possibly be, on and off the field.”
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