Despite a heartbreaking 1-4 record in one-possession games last season, the Kansas State Wildcats have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the 2023 college football landscape. With a 7-1 record and a 4-1 Big 12 standing, the 15th-ranked Wildcats have proven their resilience, rallying from fourth-quarter deficits in three of their victories this year. As they set their sights on a potential Big 12 championship, the Wildcats' unwavering focus on the present moment and their ability to finish strong have become the hallmarks of their success.

Wildcats Refuse to Fold, Embrace "One-Day-at-a-Time" Mentality

Lessons Learned from Narrow Defeats

The Wildcats' 2022 campaign was marked by a series of agonizingly close losses, with four of their defeats coming by 10 points or fewer. This experience, though painful, has fueled the team's determination to turn the tables in 2023. As offensive lineman Taylor Poitier reflected, "We lost a combination of three or four games by like 10 or 15, somewhere in that area, and that was always in our head. We're losing these close games by like one touchdown or by three, and we always talk about, we've got to finish every single time."

Embracing a Resilient Mindset

The Wildcats' resilience has been on full display this season, as they have rallied from fourth-quarter deficits in three of their seven victories. Their ability to close out tight games has been a testament to their mental toughness and their unwavering commitment to the "one-day-at-a-time" mantra preached by head coach Chris Klieman. As sophomore quarterback Avery Johnson explained, "It starts with coach Klieman, and then it's reiterated throughout the whole building. Coach Tru (strength coach Trumain Carroll) says it in all our lifts, and it's really just focus on the next game, because that's most important, and being where your feet are at and not looking too far down the road."

Staying Hungry and Humble

The Wildcats' success this season has not led to complacency, as they remain focused on the task at hand. Defensive tackle Damian Ilalio emphasized the team's commitment to staying hungry and humble, saying, "I think our team right now is doing a great job of not being satisfied, staying hungry, eating crumbs. We talk about it all the time and we try to live it as well in everything that we do." This mindset has been crucial in keeping the Wildcats grounded and focused on their ultimate goal of a Big 12 championship.

Navigating Tough Road Environments

The Wildcats' resilience has been particularly evident in their ability to win close games on the road. As Poitier noted, "That's kind of how we are right now, just being diligent with our work, especially on the road, too, like no matter what, we always want to try to finish." This road warrior mentality has been a key factor in the Wildcats' success, as they have proven their ability to thrive in hostile environments.

Staying Focused Amid Distractions

With a bye week looming after their matchup against Houston, the Wildcats must guard against the temptation to look ahead. As Ilalio emphasized, "We're not focusing on the end of the year. We're focusing on this next practice. We're focusing on the very next snap. It's really important that you go step by step, instead of looking too far ahead, because then you can get lost in the process." This laser-sharp focus on the present moment has been instrumental in the Wildcats' ability to maintain their momentum and stay on track for a potential Big 12 title.

Kicking Game Provides Clutch Moments

The Wildcats' resilience has been exemplified by the clutch performances of their kicker, Chris Tennant. In last week's Sunflower Showdown against rival Kansas, Tennant's 51-yard field goal with 1 minute and 42 seconds remaining sealed a 29-27 victory for the Wildcats. This game-winning kick was a testament to the team's ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest, a trait that will undoubtedly serve them well as they navigate the remainder of their Big 12 schedule.As the Wildcats prepare to face Houston, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to build on their impressive start to the season. With their resilient mindset, their unwavering focus on the present, and their ability to finish strong, the Wildcats are poised to make a serious push for the Big 12 title and potentially earn a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff.