K-State Wildcats football vs. Tulane Green Wave: Prediction, betting line, TV, time
THE DETAILS
Kickoff: 2 p.m. Saturday
Where: Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan
TV: ESPN+ (streaming service, subscription required)
Radio: KCSP (610 AM) in Kansas City, KKGQ (92.3 FM) in WIchita
The line: Kansas State by 13 1/2 with an O/U of 48.5
Prediction
The betting line on this game has bounced around like a ping pong ball inside the game room of a K-State dorm.
Chris Klieman’s team was initially favored by 20 when odds came out last weekend. Now the Wildcats are only favored by 13.5. The over/under points total has also dropped from 54.5 to 48.5.
Why the change?
It’s hard to figure. K-State dismantled South Dakota 34-0 and then Missouri 40-12. But Tulane is going to give it a game?
I suppose it’s possible. It’s not a stretch to describe Tulane as the best opponent on the Wildcats’ nonconference schedule. The Green Wave check in at No. 64 this week in ESPN’s SP+ analytical ratings, a mere six spots behind the Tigers.
Tulane certainly has the best offense K-State has seen thus far. Quarterback Michael Pratt has guided his team to 927 total yards and a 2-0 start. There is also no rain in the forecast for Saturday afternoon.
And K-State is coming off an emotional victory over Missouri. The Wildcats are rarely ones to troll an opposing team after a game, but they had some fun with the Tigers on social media last week. With another big game up next at Oklahoma, it’s possible bettors are expecting a let down from K-State here. This has the feel of a trap game.
But when have the Wildcats ever fell victim to looking past a team?
I don’t buy it. Adrian Martinez is itching to prove he can throw the ball efficiently in a purple uniform and K-State’s defense has only allowed 12 points all season. Good as Tulane may be on offense, it has played a pair of dismal opponents (Massachusetts and Alcorn State) and hasn’t played a road game yet. The step up in competition combined with the road environment will be too much for the Green Wave to handle.
Tulane allowed UMass to run for 200 yards and a touchdown in its first game. Deuce Vaughn will have no problems rushing for 100 yards and finding the end zone against this defense.
K-State should win again comfortably.
Kansas State 42, Tulane 14.
Last game prediction: K-State 31, Missouri 24
2022 record on picks: 2-0
2022 record vs. spread: 1-1
2022 record vs. O/U points total: 2-0
This story was originally published September 17, 2022 at 5:00 AM with the headline "K-State Wildcats football vs. Tulane Green Wave: Prediction, betting line, TV, time."