<begin chat>
Prompt: Can the State of Kansas Support Two Championship-Caliber D1 Football Programs?
There’s been some talk lately about whether a state like Kansas could ever support two championship-caliber football programs in KU and K-State. Here’s a look at the history of similar-sized states and the unique challenges we face with two D1 teams.
The Challenge of Small States with Two D1 Teams:
• Population and Recruiting: Kansas has about 3 million people, which limits our in-state talent pool. While states like Texas, Florida, and California are loaded with football talent, Kansas doesn’t have that luxury. Other small states like Nebraska, Iowa, and Arkansas have managed to build strong programs despite small populations, but they don’t have to divide resources between two major schools.
• Smaller States with Championship Success: Nebraska (with about 2 million people) has won multiple national titles, though their last was in 1997. Mississippi, with a similar population size to Kansas, has had competitive teams like Ole Miss, but no modern national titles. Oklahoma, slightly larger than Kansas at 4 million, has had significant success, with national titles and multiple College Football Playoff (CFP) appearances.
• Financial Resources: Schools in smaller states that have won championships (like Clemson and Oregon) have one thing in common—big financial backing. Oregon is heavily supported by Nike, and Clemson’s facilities and coaching salaries are top-notch. In Kansas, both KU and K-State face limitations when it comes to financial resources compared to those national powerhouses.
K-State’s Outlook:
• Current Situation: K-State is more competitive right now, having won the Big 12 in 2022. They’ve had periods of success under Bill Snyder and now Chris Klieman. However, their recruiting mostly pulls in 3- and 4-star players, which makes it tough to compete nationally against teams with 5-star talent.
• Challenges: To win a national championship, K-State would need to go undefeated or close to it, win the Big 12, and land some key recruits or transfers to build the depth needed to compete with programs like Alabama or Ohio State.
• Realistic Chance: K-State could make the CFP with a strong season, but winning a national title remains a long shot given their resources and recruiting challenges.
KU’s Outlook:
• Current Situation: KU is still in rebuild mode but has made strides under Lance Leipold. We’ve seen some improvement, but there’s still a long road ahead before we’re competitive in the Big 12.
• Challenges: We need better recruiting, improved facilities, and more investment in football to even think about competing for a national title. KU’s historical focus has been basketball, and football hasn’t had the same level of support.
• Realistic Chance: A national championship for KU is far off. First, we need to become a consistent bowl team and compete for the Big 12 before looking at the national stage.
Conclusion:
Living in a smaller state with two D1 football programs is tough. Our population limits the local talent pool, and financial resources aren’t at the level of major national programs. While smaller states like Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Clemson (South Carolina) have had success, they typically have just one big football program to focus their efforts on, unlike Kansas, where both KU and K-State share the spotlight. For now, K-State is closer to contending, but a national championship is unlikely for either team in the near future.
Rock Chalk, and here’s to hoping KU keeps building!
<end chat>
