What's Collin Klein's Projected Win Total In First Year Coaching Kansas State?

Most of the hype around Kansas State football the past few months has been due to one name: coach Collin Klein.

The program legend's return to Manhattan, KS, brings optimism about possibly bringing another Big 12 championship to the team. He's won two already, both as a coach and a player. CBS Sports published a prediction article on the win totals for the newest Power Four coaches. It projected Klein winning seven games, including four against conference opponents.

"Klein returns to Kansas State with immediate expectations and a quarterback he knows better than most. Avery Johnson, whom Klein originally recruited, is the linchpin for everything the Wildcats hope to accomplish in Year 1. His athleticism and experience give Kansas State a chance to contend, but his consistency as a passer will determine the team's ceiling," the article wrote.

With Klein's return, quarterback Avery Johnson is expected to have a career season. He had arguably his most impressive year as a freshman under Klein. Granted, it was Year 1. But still, his standout performances gave the fanbase hope for years.

Johnson hasn't really had that type of year yet, though. A lack of accolades and personal development has produced some pretty disappointing seasons. Nothing bad, but far below what people expected for him.

Especially in Year 3. What was anticipated to be a potentially generational year was a dip from an already underwhelming 2025 season. Johnson dropped in nearly every statistical category, failing to elevate his game.

That's where Klein comes in in 2026. The veteran play-caller will tailor a game plan to Johnson's strengths, likely integrating a more fast-paced style with more designed runs and downfield looks. Former offensive coordinator Matt Wells was detested in Manhattan, KS, for his conservative play-calling last season. The hope is that Klein opens up the playbook and gets Johnson to replicate his 2023 production.

He spent the last season developing Marcel Reed into a top signal-caller, illustrating his ability to coach outside his familiarity. So there's little reason to believe Klein can't do it in a program he's spent most of his life at, especially with Johnson.

Then again, we'll have to see. The Wildcats have been projected as a conference juggernaut for years and have fallen short. Wildcats fans will get their answer in a month, when they kick off the season against Nicholls State.

MORE KANSAS STATE STORIES

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!

It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.

Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!