Troy vs. Kansas State Short Report | Sep 9, 2023
Bill Snyder Family Stadium
Manhattan, KS
Sep 9, 2023
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Game Recap
The Kansas State Wildcats dismantled the Troy Trojans 42-13, putting an end to Troy's 12-game winning streak in front of 51,940 fans at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Quarterback Will Howard led the charge with three passing and two rushing touchdowns, amassing 250 passing yards and 33 rushing yards. The Wildcats' defense, spearheaded by Khalid Duke's two sacks and three tackles for loss, held Troy to 286 total yards and forced multiple turnovers.
Although Troy showed flashes of brilliance, including a 21-yard touchdown hookup between Gunnar Watson and Chris Lewis, Kansas State's aggressive play-calling, particularly in the closing seconds of the first half, shifted the game’s momentum. By scoring just before halftime and dominating field positions, the Wildcats took control. With standout performances by senior wide receiver Phillip Brooks and a relentless defensive front, Kansas State showcased their dominance on both ends of the field.
Key Plays:
Jadon Jackson (Kansas State Wildcats)
Will Howard connected with Jadon Jackson for a 9-yard touchdown, capitalizing on a well-executed drive to give Kansas State an early 7-0 lead, setting the tone for the game.
Phillip Brooks (Kansas State Wildcats)
Phillip Brooks rushed for a 2-yard touchdown after receiving a critical block from tight end Ben Sinnott, pushing the lead to 14-0.
Scott Taylor Renfroe (Troy Trojans)
Scott Taylor Renfroe drilled a 24-yard field goal to put Troy on the scoreboard, narrowing the deficit to 14-3.
Chris Lewis (Troy Trojans)
Chris Lewis made a stunning one-handed catch for a 21-yard touchdown, bringing Troy within four points at 14-10.
Phillip Brooks (Kansas State Wildcats)
Phillip Brooks caught a 39-yard touchdown pass from Will Howard, concluding a rapid 5-play, 66-yard drive that took just 39 seconds, giving K-State a crucial 21-10 lead at halftime.
Will Howard (Kansas State Wildcats)
Will Howard capped a methodical 8-play, 44-yard drive with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, extending Kansas State's lead to 28-10.
Scott Taylor Renfroe (Troy Trojans)
Scott Taylor Renfroe added a 37-yard field goal to Troy's tally, making it 28-13 early in the fourth quarter.
Treshaun Ward (Kansas State Wildcats)
Treshaun Ward hauled in a 1-yard touchdown pass from Will Howard, effectively sealing the victory for the Wildcats.
Will Howard (Kansas State Wildcats)
Will Howard scored his second rushing touchdown of the game from 1 yard out, putting the final exclamation point on Kansas State's 42-13 victory.
Will Lee (Kansas State Wildcats)
Defensive back Will Lee intercepted a pass, returned it 11 yards to set up Kansas State's offense at midfield, and shifted the momentum further in favor of the Wildcats.
Standout Players:
Will Howard (Kansas State Wildcats, QB)
Despite an interception, he accounted for five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing), threw for 250 yards, and rushed for 33 yards, emphasizing his leadership and play-making ability.
Phillip Brooks (Kansas State Wildcats, WR)
Delivered a standout performance by amassing 94 receiving yards on seven catches, a 39-yard touchdown, and a 2-yard rushing touchdown, showing versatility and playmaking.
Jadon Jackson (Kansas State Wildcats, WR)
Contributed significantly with a 9-yard touchdown catch and a pivotal 40-yard reception in double coverage.
Khalid Duke (Kansas State Wildcats, DE)
Disrupted Troy’s offense with two sacks, three tackles for loss, and relentless pressure throughout the game.
Chris Lewis (Troy Trojans, WR)
Highlighted Troy’s effort with a remarkable one-handed, 21-yard touchdown catch and several critical receptions.
Scott Taylor Renfroe (Troy Trojans, K)
Delivered two field goals, including a 37-yarder, contributing to Troy’s scoring under pressure.
Will Lee (Kansas State Wildcats, DB)
Secured a critical interception in the first half, setting up the Wildcats in a strong field position and further stifling Troy’s momentum.
Kimani Vidal (Troy Trojans, RB)
Rushed for 83 hard-fought yards, showcasing his resilience despite Kansas State’s dominant defensive performance.
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Troy Trojans
0
10
0
3
13
Kansas State Wildcats
7
14
7
14
42
