Kansas State football faces a significant hurdle ahead of its October 24 matchup at Arizona State, as starting tight end Garrett Oakley remains sidelined by a viral illness. Head coach Collin Klein confirmed that Oakley is “probably unlikely” to suit up, marking the second consecutive game the veteran will miss after sitting out the Wildcats’ 35-24 victory over Kansas. This absence compounds an already thin roster depth, as the team is also without Will Anciaux for the season, leaving limited options in the tight end position.
Viral illness sidelines key Wildcat receiver, forcing creative personnel shifts
With Oakley out, the Wildcats’ offensive staff has been forced to improvise with personnel groupings to maintain competitive balance. Freshman offensive tackle Oliver Miller, who made his college debut on October 10 after missing the first four games with an injury, has stepped into a hybrid tight end role. Miller played 29 snaps against the Jayhawks, providing an extra blocker alongside Linkon Cure, the only tight end with meaningful snaps entering the game. This tactical adjustment proved effective, as Kansas State rushed for a season-high 359 yards in the win over Kansas.
The loss of Oakley represents a tangible drop in offensive production, as he was the team’s second-leading receiver prior to his illness. Oakley had accumulated 16 catches for 196 yards and a touchdown, serving as a crucial target in the passing game. While the Wildcats found success through creative blocking schemes and Miller’s versatility, the absence of Oakley’s receiving threat limits the offense’s ability to stretch the field. Kansas State will look to replicate this ground-heavy approach against Arizona State, but the long-term impact of Oakley’s viral illness on the season’s offensive ceiling remains a concern for the coaching staff.
Source: Yahoo Sports
