Crossing the Goal Line: Predicting the TCU vs Kansas State Football Game

Nathan Cross gives his prediction for the game, and whether or whether not the frogs cover the spread.

Editor's Note: "Crossing the Goal Line" is a weekly column by Nathan Cross in which he predicts the upcoming TCU game. He looks at the point spread, the over/under, and makes a prediction. This is his opinion and should not be taken as betting advice.

TCU is a 6.5-point underdog against Kansas State. The over/under on the game is currently at 58.5. Despite the underdog status, I am picking TCU to win this game outright. 

With Josh Hoover as quarterback, TCU has an opportunity to improve their season.  / Tony Beblowski KillerFrogs

Many people will disagree with my opinion. However, I have faith that this team has finally figured it out. If the team can continue to stand behind Josh Hoover, they could turn this season into a solid one. 

Here are some reasons to back up my opinion.

Why TCU Will Beat The Spread Over Kansas State

Kansas State Has Struggled this Season Finding a Rhythm

The Wildcats have been so hit or miss this season. They have talent on their roster but haven't figured out how to put it all together. Kansas State quarterback Will Howard has not had the exact season he would have liked thus far. He has not taken care of the ball, which has led to turnovers.

The K-State Defense Has Struggled with Stopping the Pass

K-State has done a fairly good job stopping the run game and has held teams pretty well. However, they have not been able to slow down the passing game as much as they would have liked. With Hoover now starting, the Frogs seem to be throwing the ball more. This will help them push them over Kansas State in the end.

Josh Hoover Looked Excellent

Hoover played an excellent game. He absolutely let the ball fly all over the field. He targeted almost every receiver, and the offense finally seemed to click. Hoover has the potential to be the next great TCU quarterback. He gave me some flashbacks of TCU great Max Duggan throughout the game against BYU. I am fired up to see what this guy can do!

The TCU Defense Looked to Have Figured Something Out

TCU's defense was electric, and BYU had no answer for them. They seemed to be moving faster and playing smarter. They were able to get to the quarterback quite a few times. If the defense continues with what they did against BYU,  they will stop Kansas State with no problem.

The Horned Frogs' Play Calling Looked Much Better

Overall, TCU's play-calling was better on both ends of the ball. For offense, they seemed to draw up plays that fit Hoover very well, and defensively, they found a rhythm and stuck with it. Both sides of the ball looked more polished and are ready for the rest of the season.

TCU will win this game 38-21 because of all the factors mentioned. TCU needs this win to keep up the momentum. Again, this is just my opinion; I admit I have been wrong this season, but anything could happen, including TCU turning this season around. Check out fellow KillerFrogs writer Brett Gibbons' Opponent Preview article for more information on Kansas State.

TCU Football: Tori's Thoughts - TCU Took A Step Forward, Kansas State Has Quarterback Depth

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