Kansas Jayhawks vs. Kansas State Wildcats: Home Advantage Is the Key in A Rivalry Match
The Kansas Jayhawks are slated at home at Allen Fieldhouse after a difficult road defeat in preparation to their match against the Kansas State Wildcats. In spite of the reversal in Ames, the Jayhawks are heavy favoured to return for victory, especially when playing on their own territory. But rivalry games are the exceptions to the average outings, and Kansas will need to rise above all that and give a good performance.
Key Storylines to Watch
1. Kansas’s Bounce-Back Factor
The Jayhawks are coming off a defeat at the hands of Iowa State and the team’s reliability against such a staunch defence was questionable. But, they are at Allen Fieldhouse and they have Bill Self to bring them back. The two will be Hunter Dickinson, who missed in the previous game. If he can still play at that level and with K-State having no real center, the Jayhawks should have the edge.
2. Kansas State’s Struggles
Kansas State had a really bad year so far, the team is incredibly shallow and they don’t have a strong point when it comes to scoring. The Wildcats may come into this rivalry game with more urgency, but the difference between these two teams and programs is night and day. Should the above arguments be anything to go by, Kansas State will have to shoot a near perfect game to cover the odds.
3. Chances for youngster
Some problems include; Injuries, specifically the loss of KJ Adams will likely see the bench being used more by Kansas. This could be a golden opportunity for other players like AJ Storr and Rylen Griffen to come off the bench and put good minutes into play. Besides, there is Flory Bidunga, the Gambian player, who could be very useful with more playing time especially upon the leave of Adams.
Predictions from the Team
Kyle Davis Despite the fact that the two teams are from the same state and the Wildcats are badly off, this match is well suited for the Kansas team to find the game rhythm. Prediction: Kansas 81, Kansas State 69
Brendan Dzwierzynski Kansas will benefit from more talent and better coaching in this contest. Dickinson should turn in a performance better than that and the Jayhawks should sail past it easily. Prediction: Kansas 81, Kansas State 69
All part of a home game at Allen Fieldhouse, where Kansas looks to gain some traction in a crucial conference season. If Hunter Dickinson and the bench perform well, they should shut up the Jayhawks . Prediction: Kansas 88, Kansas State 68
Andy Mitts Despite injuries, Kansas has what it takes to thwart Kansas State in specific – defense. Flory Bidunga is to come to the fore with more involvement. Prediction: Kansas 87, Kansas State 59
Conclusion In summary, the Jayhawks enjoy a much stronger home court advantage but often the rivalry match ups are very hard to call. As long as Kansas can refind the form in the attack line and make their defense stronger, they should be able to win easily. For Kansas State, this game is a chance to show that they can match up with the best in the Big 12 but to beat Kansas at home is a tall order.