Kansas State found its offensive groove and delivered a critical fourth-quarter stop to secure a 34-20 win over previously unbeaten UCF on Saturday, notching the Wildcats’ first Big 12 victory of the season.

Quarterback Avery Johnson led the charge with 168 passing yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 75 yards. Running back Dylan Edwards exploded for 166 rushing yards and a touchdown on just 20 carries, including a game-breaking 75-yard score that helped put the game out of reach in the second half.

The Wildcats (2-3, 1-1 Big 12) piled up 270 yards on the ground and leaned on a defense that bent at times but came through with a key fourth-down stop late in the fourth quarter. The defensive stand helped preserve a win that coach Chris Klieman said almost felt like another close call.

READ MORE: Virginia Shocks No. 8 Florida State in Instant Classic at Scott Stadium

“I’m like, ‘Here we go again,’” Klieman admitted. “Proud of the guys to get some stops on defense after we gave up some explosive plays.”

UCF (3-1, 0-1 Big 12), playing their first game since the unexpected passing of offensive line coach Shawn Clark, struggled to find rhythm early, particularly after starting QB Tayven Jackson exited with an injury midway through the first half. Backup Jacurri Brown immediately threw a pick that led to a Kansas State touchdown, and the Knights trailed 17-7 at halftime.

Brown briefly electrified the game with an 82-yard touchdown pass to DJ Black – UCF’s longest since 2001 – but Kansas State quickly responded with another long scoring drive. Jackson returned later in the game and tried to mount a comeback, but a fourth-down fumble deep in KSU territory ended the momentum.

READ MORE: Baker Mayfield Injury Update: Will He Play Sunday vs. Eagles? Teddy Bridgewater Waiting in the Wings

The Wildcats played much of the game without top receiver Jayce Brown, who was ruled out due to an undisclosed issue after attempting to play. His absence didn’t slow the offense thanks to Johnson’s dual-threat play and Edwards’ breakout performance.

UCF, which had dominated North Carolina A&T in a 68-point outburst the week before, couldn’t find the same consistency on the road.

“We just weren’t consistent enough,” said head coach Scott Frost. “That’s what we have to keep working on—eliminating mistakes that hurt us.”

Up Next, UCF returns home to face Kansas in a Saturday night showdown.

Bookmark Fan Stream Sports – Tampa Bay for NFL & college football news, commentary & opinion all season.

Follow Timm Hamm on X for all the college football & NFL news, updates & analysis throughout the season.