The K-State Quarterback Room: Avery Johnson’s Potential and the Battle for QB2

As the K-State Wildcats gear up for the upcoming football season, all eyes are on the quarterback room, particularly the rising star, Avery Johnson. The hype surrounding Johnson is palpable, and for good reason—his potential is sky-high, and he’s already shown glimpses of brilliance that have fans and analysts buzzing. But with Johnson firmly established as the starter, the question remains: who will emerge as QB2 in the battle to back up the golden boy?

The Avery Johnson Hype Train: Potential and Ceiling

Avery Johnson isn’t just the starting quarterback; he’s the centerpiece of K-State’s offense under Conor Riley and Matt Wells, and a player with the potential to rewrite the record books. Johnson burst onto the scene last season with electrifying performances, including a five-touchdown rushing game against Texas Tech and an impressive showing in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, his first career start at quarterback. His dual-threat ability, combined with a live arm and exceptional mobility, makes him a nightmare for defenses.

But as exciting as Johnson’s talent is, there’s always room for improvement. Despite his impressive stats last season—zero interceptions, aside from a few fumbles—there’s a desire to see him take more risks, particularly with his deep passing game. Johnson’s arm strength is undeniable, and fans are eager to see him unleash more deep shots, adding a new dimension to the Wildcats’ offense.

Another area of focus for Johnson this season will be his physical development. Listed at 180 pounds last year, there’s hope that an offseason under the guidance of K-State’s strength and conditioning program will add some bulk to his frame. This added weight could not only enhance his durability—critical in the physically demanding Big 12—but also improve his overall play.

Records on the Horizon

Johnson’s potential isn’t just about individual games; it’s about the possibility of setting new benchmarks for K-State quarterbacks. While breaking records in his sophomore season might seem ambitious, it’s not out of the question. The single-game total offense record of 501 yards, set by Josh Freeman, and the season total touchdowns responsible for (40), set by Colin Klein, are both within reach if Johnson can stay healthy and consistently deliver on the field.

However, some records might prove more elusive. The season passing yards record (3,501) held by Jake Waters and the season rushing yards record (1,141) set by Colin Klein are steep challenges, especially given K-State’s traditionally balanced offensive approach. Still, if Johnson can combine his passing and rushing abilities effectively, he could come close to these milestones.

The Battle for QB2: Who Will Step Up?

While Johnson is the undisputed starter, the battle for the backup quarterback position is heating up. With the transfer portal and the ever-evolving college football landscape, depth at quarterback is more critical than ever. K-State needs a reliable QB2 who can step in and keep the offense humming if Johnson is sidelined for any reason.

The competition for QB2 is fierce, and several candidates are vying for the role. The outcome of this battle will not only determine the immediate backup but could also shape the future of the Wildcats’ quarterback room. With Johnson’s potential to attract national attention—possibly even a Heisman campaign—the pressure is on for the next man up to be ready at a moment’s notice.

Conclusion: High Expectations, High Stakes

Avery Johnson’s sophomore season is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent K-State history. With sky-high expectations and the potential to break records, Johnson is under the spotlight like never before. But as the Wildcats prepare for the season, the importance of depth at quarterback cannot be overstated. The battle for QB2 will be crucial, ensuring that K-State’s offense remains potent no matter who’s under center.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Avery Johnson and his quest to lead the Wildcats to new heights. Whether he breaks records or simply solidifies his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the Big 12, one thing is certain: the future of K-State football is in very capable hands.

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Bob Trollsby

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