Turns out, the uniforms weren’t holding the Wildcats back. Avery Johnson and Dylan Edwards led K-State to a 44-41 win that will go down as one of the biggest turnarounds in K-State bowl history. And they killed the uniform curse in the process.

Kansas State coach Chris Klieman always praises the loyalty and support from the Wildcats fanbase. But he also used Thursday night to thank the band for their dedication and devotion. “Hats off to K-State nation for coming out and watching us play,

Kansas State will try to rebound from a difficult finish to the regular season as it faces Rutgers in the Rate Bowl.

Kansas State may only be the reigning Pop-Tarts Bowl champions for a few more days, but the Wildcats can still end the season on a high note in the Rate Bowl against Rutgers at Chase Field in Phoenix on Thursday.

Nov 30, 2024; Ames, Iowa, USA; Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson (2) is pressured by Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Jacob Ellis (44) in the fourth quarter at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-Imagn Images / Reese Strickland-Imagn Images

Rutgers will look to remain undefeated against the Wildcats in what is their second-ever meeting. The Scarlet Knights previously defeated Kansas State, 37-10, in the 2006 Texas Bowl. No matter who is on the field, the Wildcats expect a fight.