The No. 14 Kansas State Wildcats are set to face a strong challenge as they host the No. 20 Arizona Wildcats on Friday night. While both schools are members of the Big 12 Conference, this game won’t affect the conference standings, as it was scheduled prior to Arizona's move to the Big 12. Both teams are undefeated at 2-0. Kansas State is coming off a thrilling 34-27 comeback victory over Tulane, while Arizona secured a 22-10 win against FCS opponent Northern Arizona in Week 2. The last meeting between these two teams dates back to 1978, when Arizona claimed a 31-0 victory in Tucson.
Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Kansas State is currently favored by 6.5 points according to the latest odds from SportsLine consensus, with the over/under set at 60.5, up from its opening line of 54.5. Before locking in your bets for Kansas State vs. Arizona, check out the college football predictions and expert picks from the SportsLine Projection Model.
The SportsLine model simulates every FBS game 10,000 times. Since its launch, it has generated over $2,000 in profit for $100 bettors on its top-rated college football picks against the spread. Coming off a successful 13-9 season in spread picks, the model is also 4-0 on over/under predictions this year. Those who have followed the model have consistently seen strong returns.
Now, the model has turned its attention to Arizona vs. Kansas State and locked in its predictions. You can visit SportsLine to get the full breakdown, but here are the latest odds and betting lines for the matchup:
- Spread: Kansas State -6.5
- Over/Under: 60.5 points
- Moneyline: Kansas State -250, Arizona +203
Why Arizona Can Cover
Arizona's 2-0 start under new head coach Brent Brennan hasn't been without its challenges. In their Week 1 win over New Mexico, the Wildcats posted an impressive 627 yards and 61 points but allowed 39 points and over 400 yards to the Lobos. In Week 2, Arizona's defense stepped up, limiting Northern Arizona to 198 yards, but the offense struggled to find its rhythm, scoring only two touchdowns. Arizona will need to put together a complete performance in its first road test of the 2024 season.
The Wildcats' offense is spearheaded by former high school teammates quarterback Noah Fifita and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. McMillan was dominant in Week 1, hauling in 10 catches for 305 yards and four touchdowns. However, he was held to just two catches for 11 yards in Week 2. For Arizona to extend its current nine-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the nation, the Fifita-McMillan duo will need to have a big day against Kansas State’s defense.
Why Kansas State Can Cover
Kansas State boasts a potent backfield duo in quarterback Avery Johnson and running back DJ Giddens. The pair played a crucial role in the Wildcats’ 24-point second-half rally against Tulane last week, with Johnson connecting on a 45-yard touchdown pass to Giddens to tie the game. A key defensive play—a 60-yard fumble return for a touchdown by safety Jack Fabris—ultimately sealed the win for K-State.
So far this season, Johnson has thrown for 334 yards and four touchdowns while adding 77 rushing yards. Giddens has been equally impressive, racking up 238 rushing yards on 32 carries and contributing in the passing game with seven receptions for 69 yards and a score. Kansas State will aim to control the tempo on the ground and keep Arizona’s explosive offense off the field. If the Wildcats succeed, it could be a long night for Arizona.
How to Make Kansas State vs. Arizona Picks
SportsLine’s model is predicting a high-scoring affair, projecting 72 total points. The model also shows one side of the spread hitting in over 60% of simulations. You can get the model’s complete pick and analysis by visiting SportsLine now.
So, who wins Kansas State vs. Arizona, and which side of the spread hits in over 60% of simulations? Visit SportsLine to find out, all from a model that has returned more than $2,000 in profit on its top-rated college football picks.
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