Three Keys: Kansas Jayhawks at Cincinnati Bearcats
The Kansas Jayhawks head into their regular season finale with one last chance to impress the bowl representatives as they head on the road to take on the Cincinnati Bearcats. While they are no longer in the conference race, the Jayhawks still have a chance to hit some high marks with a win today.
Standing in the way is a Bearcats team that has struggled as much as expected in their first Big 12 season, although fans can be forgiven for getting their hopes up after two early non-conference wins and then a good defensive showing against Oklahoma. Like much of the Big 12, Cincinnati is capable of putting together a surprise performance, so Kansas can't take this game lightly. So what are the keys to making sure that they avoid a three-game losing streak and finish above .500 in the Big 12 for the first time since 2008?
Pound The Rock
The Jayhawks have two running backs who are capable of putting together All-Big 12 worthy performances. And Cincinnati has had issues stopping the run all year, as Kyle pointed out in his preview. You can be sure the Kansas coaches thoroughly enjoyed watching what West Virginia did last week, especially since the Jayhawks average more yards per carry than the Mountaineers.
Kansas already has one rushing performance of nearly 400 yards against UCF, and even Dylan McDuffie got heavily involved there. There are some concerns about the health of the offensive line since Bryce Cabeldue went out with an injury last week. But the depth has been a pretty big asset this season, and Kansas should be able to compensate pretty well with so many talented rushers.
Make Them Throw
Cincinnati is a run heavy team, with 3 runs for every 2 pass attempts. That doesn't mean that they can't pass, but they are much more effective in the running game, and they tend to go there first. But a clear indicator in their success has been having a 100-yard rusher, which doesn't guarantee a win but does allow them to stay competitive in the game. The Bearcats tend to take some time to get going, so it will be important to establish some resistance early. Making life difficult in the backfield will get the secondary for the Jayhawks involved.
Mistake Management
This isn't just a "get turnovers" point. This is more about making sure that the Jayhawks capitalized on the mistakes that the Bearcats make. Kansas has multiple dropped pick-sixes on the year, including a brutal one against Kansas State last week that might have sealed the game. Yes, the Jayhawks need to avoid turning the ball over themselves. But they can weather a few mistakes from a returning Jason Bean or less experienced Cole Ballard if the defense can take advantage of those opportunities that are certain to come.
And whatever they do, Kansas cannot afford to turn it over on special teams.
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