The Kansas football program bounced back in a 31-7 victory over Fresno State in Week 0 and will have the chance to improve to 2-0 Friday, Aug. 29, at home against Wagner. Following the program’s best finish in over a decade in 2023 (9-4), the Jayhawks took a step back last season at 5-7. Quarterback Jalon Daniels was electric in the opener, throwing three touchdowns and completing 90% of his passes. Wagner, meanwhile, comes into the matchup off a disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2024.
Daniels will look to continue his hot start in his sixth season with the program Friday at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN+. The Jayhawks enter Week 1 as 45.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 56.5 total points. Here are two key players to watch in this game, followed by the top storylines for each team, and a prediction from Heartland College Sports.
Two Key Players to Watch
Jalon Daniels (QB, Kansas)
All eyes will be on Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels following his strong showing against Fresno State. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Daniels remains one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. Facing a Wagner defense that ranked in the bottom half of the Northeast Conference last season, he’s in a prime position for another multi-touchdown performance. This game also presents an opportunity for Daniels to build his chemistry with KU’s deep receiver room ahead of tougher non-conference tests. If Kansas jumps out to an early lead, look for Daniels to get his work in early before giving way to the backups.
Sam Martin (WR/DB, Wagner)
Sam Martin stands out as a key playmaker for Wagner in this Week 1 showdown. The senior defensive back brings versatility and leadership to the Seahawks’ secondary, returning 51 tackles, recording an interception, and forcing a fumble last season, all while serving as the primary kick returner. He appeared in all 12 games last season and will be a key factor if Wagner hopes to keep things competitive.
Two Key Storylines
Cam Pickett Emerging as Jalon Daniels’ Go-To Target After Breakout Debut
After playing last season with Ball State, wide receiver Cam Pickett joined the Jayhawks this offseason, and his presence was immediately visible. He recorded a game-high six catches for 77 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to separate and win contested catches gives Kansas a reliable playmaker on the outside. If his Week 0 performance was any indication, Pickett is on track to become a major factor in KU’s passing attack this fall.
Wagner’s Defense Must Contain Jalon Daniels Early
While Daniels was sharp through the air in Week 0, he was also dangerous on the ground, rushing for 47 yards, including a 23-yard burst. If Wagner hopes to stay competitive, its defense, led by Martin, will need to keep Daniels contained and prevent him from extending plays out of the pocket. That’s easier said than done, as Daniels thrives when plays break down and has the arm talent to punish defenses that overcommit to the run. If Wagner can’t generate pressure while keeping him in the pocket, this game could get out of hand quickly.
Prediction: Kansas 56, Wagner 7
Kansas enters this matchup with a clear advantage in talent, depth, and experience, and the Jayhawks should control the game from start to finish. Daniels and the KU offense are expected to move the ball efficiently through either the passing or running attack, while the defense should be able to dictate the line of scrimmage against an overmatched Wagner unit. The key for Kansas will be maintaining focus and execution, using this game to fine-tune details before a much-anticipated Week 2 showdown with Missouri. Despite several new additions to the roster, Kansas should leave this game with an easy victory.
