On3’s Brett McMurphy Lists Kansas State as Big 12’s Best Squad

Kansas State leads the Big 12 in Brett McMurphy’s latest preseason Top 25 ballot, coming in at No. 13 on his Associated Press submission.

That ranking puts the Wildcats ahead of every other team from the conference on his list.

McMurphy, a longtime AP poll voter and national college football insider for On3, released his ballot as part of his preseason preview. His rankings mix national contenders like Oregon and Georgia with teams he sees as poised to make a run in 2025.

Kansas State’s spot in the poll reflects both its recent success and the optimism surrounding Chris Klieman’s program this offseason. The Wildcats finished 9–4 in 2024, won the Pop-Tarts Bowl, and return key contributors. Quarterback Avery Johnson enters his second year as a starter, and the team brings back a strong offensive line along with experienced defensive leaders.

McMurphy’s projection matches much of the preseason buzz. Other media polls have also placed Kansas State at or near the top of the Big 12, and the Wildcats have drawn consistent attention as a legitimate contender. Their combination of stability, talent, and proven coaching has made them one of the more trusted picks in the league.

With the official AP preseason poll set to be released in mid-August, McMurphy’s ballot serves as an early indicator of national perception. A top-15 ranking gives Kansas State a platform to push for both a Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff bid.

If the Wildcats can match their preseason billing on the field, they will have the chance to define the Big 12 race and establish themselves firmly in the national conversation.