Kansas State uses rushing attack to beat Nevada 38-17

Updated Sep. 18, 2021 7:17 p.m. ET

Associated Press

MANHATTAN, Ks. (AP) — Will Howard pushed into the end zone on a 1-yard touchdown run to cap a 21-point fourth quarter, which sealed a 38-17 victory for Kansas State over Nevada on Saturday.

Deuce Vaughn led the rushing attack for the Wildcats with 127 yards and a touchdown en route to the win. Vaughn has eclipsed 1,000 career yards rushing in only 13 games as a Wildcat. The sophomore running back reached the 1,000 milestone a game faster than Kansas State legend Darren Sproles.

"It's a humbling stat," Vaughn said. “It's crazy to think that a year after coming to Kansas State and already over 1,000 yards. I am so thankful for this program."

Howard rushed for 56 yards and two touchdowns. The sophomore quarterback went 7 of 10 in the air for 123 yards and threw a 68-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Imatorbhebhe on the second play of the game.

The opening drive was crucial in creating some early momentum. “That is a look that I was hoping to get,” Howard said. “... That was a huge play because it really got our fans going and gave us some momentum early.”

Carson Strong was 27-of-40 passing for 262 yards with a touchdown and interception for Nevada.

“I think Carson did some good things," Nevada coach Jay Norvell said. “He had the one turnover and we just didn’t take advantage of our opportunities. We have to run the ball more effectively and play some complementary football.”

Devonte Lee led the Wolf Pack in rushing with 24 yards and a touchdown. The Wolf Pack finished with 331 yards of offense but only 25 yards on the ground.

The Wildcats finished with 390 yards, 269 yards on the ground.

“For us to be able to rush the football like we did is a credit to our offensive line and tight ends," Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said.

Joe Ervin found the end zone for the Wildcats with a 22-yard touchdown run.

THE TAKEAWAY

Nevada: Strong saw pressure most of the afternoon, but when he had time in the pocket, he was able to complete tight window passes including a 14-yard touchdown throw to Elijah Cooks. The Wolf Pack defense struggled to stop the persistent ground attack by the Wildcats.

Kansas State: The ground game has been the staple of the Wildcat offense. Led by Vaughn, it was the dominant source of offensive production. Kansas State ran the football 48 times, opting to throw on 13 attempts. The Kansas State defense forced Strong into errant throws.

UP NEXT

Nevada will face Boise State on the road Oct. 2.

Kansas State will travel to face Oklahoma State on Saturday.

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