Tulane vs. Kansas State 2026
Tulane carried momentum from its comeback win over South Alabama into a week three matchup with Kansas State, taking an early 7-0 lead after a defensive stop.
However, momentum couldn't carry Tulane to victory as the Kansas State defense wore down the Green Wave's offensive line with six sacks on the way to a 31-20 win.
The odds favored Kansas State, a team with more money and higher-rated recruits, but Tulane did not expect to lose, which was evident even after the clock hit zero.
On the final offensive possession, Tulane marched down the field for a final touchdown; although it took too much time off the board, it gave the team a necessary test.
The successful drive to end the game showcased an ability to stay calm and operate under pressure in situations that can easily cause panic.
Responding positively to a difficult end-game situation such as the one at Kansas State will be necessary as Tulane heads into American conference play with post-season aspirations on the line.
Running Backs Must Continue to Step Up
Sacks hurt the Green Wave, but the biggest crutch came from Jaylin Lucas' inability to impact the game as he did in a win over South Alabama.
Tulane could not fill that hole, but running backs Johnnie Daniels and Maurice Turner stepped up, each netting more than 60 yards.
A loss is not the outcome Tulane hoped for, but the team could learn from the more balanced rushing approach they took against Kansas State.
After two extremes in the rushing game in the first two weeks, a struggle at Duke, and an all-time performance from Lucas against South Alabama, Tulane needs to be more consistent on the ground, and a rushing game by committee may be the answer.
Tulane
returns home for a matchup with Southern Miss in week four. Kickoff is
scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
