In this week's Big 12 roundtable, we break down the storylines to watch for in the final spring games in the conference at West Virginia and Kansas State.
What is the most compelling storyline in K-State's spring game?
Brandon Chatmon: There should be plenty to watch during K-State’s spring showing, but I’ll be looking at the Wildcats running game. That’s been the missing link for the Wildcats during the past two seasons, so finding a primary ball carrier is critical after averaging 146 rushing yards and 3.77 yards per carry during the past two seasons, which ranked in the bottom third of the Big 12 in both categories during that span. Charles Jones, Justin Silmon, Alex Barnes and Dalvin Warmack could provide plenty of options, but K-State would love to see someone step up and run away with the job.
Jake Trotter: The quarterbacks. Even though they've been in Manhattan for awhile now, we really haven't seen Jesse Ertz or Alex Delton, save for last year's spring game and a few plays last season. They have emerged as the co-favorites for the job. If one of them can deliver a breakout season next year, K-State could be a dangerous team, given what's coming back on defense.
What about West Virginia's spring game?
Chatmon: First and foremost, the defense. The Mountaineers lost a bunch of talent and experience on that side of the ball, but count me among the people who think there are some talented defenders remaining on campus. Safeties Dravon Askew-Henry and Jeremy Tyler are impact players, while defensive end Noble Nwachukwu is one of the Big 12’s more overlooked talents. And the linebacker spot has several players with upside, including Al-Rasheed Benton. I think the Mountaineers will be solid on offense, but it won’t matter much if the defense can’t win its share of battles.
Trotter: With so many new names, the defense will definitely be something to follow, but I'm going to be focused most on Shelton Gibson. After emerging last year, Gibson has a chance to be one of the top receivers in the Big 12 last year. I'm sure many of you saw the video of this ridiculous catch from Gibson this spring. If he starts making those types of plays next season, West Virginia, once again, will feature a big-time wideout.