K-State drops Big 12 opener at Cincinnati after run-defense breakdown

Kansas State fell 31-26 at Cincinnati on Sept. 26 despite 447 total yards and 292 passing yards from Avery Johnson. Postgame analysis continues to emphasize 271 rushing yards allowed, explosive-play failures, a third-quarter turnover, uneven scoring and Johnson's workload; the bye is focused on determining whether the loss reflected correctable execution or a broader defensive problem before Houston.