Avery Johnson lit up the scoreboard and turned heads across the Big 12 in his highly anticipated spring game debut, throwing for 256 yards and 3 touchdowns while rushing for another score, declaring boldly afterward, “This is the new era of Kansas State football.” The redshirt freshman quarterback stepped into the spotlight after Will Howard’s departure and didn’t flinch, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities with electrifying runs and pinpoint passing.
Head coach Chris Klieman praised Johnson’s poise and command of the offense. “Avery’s got that ‘it’ factor. He’s not just the future—he’s the now,” said Klieman. Johnson found wide receiver Jayce Brown on a 34-yard touchdown strike early in the first quarter, then stunned the crowd with a 62-yard sprint on a read-option keeper that showcased his game-breaking speed.
The Wildcats’ defense, led by veteran linebacker Austin Moore, held firm during the scrimmage, but all eyes were on Johnson, whose energy and confidence have already started shifting the culture in Manhattan. Fans left Bill Snyder Family Stadium buzzing, with many already comparing him to Collin Klein. If this performance is a sign of things to come, the Big 12 may have a new quarterback king in Avery Johnson.
