BY JACKSON SCHNEIDER
MANHATTAN, Kan. - Saturday, Kansas State squeezed past its FCS-level opponent Southern Illinois, 31-23. In the first quarter, K-State starting quarterback Skylar Thompson left with an apparent knee injury, leaving sophomore Will Howard to fill the void.
Following the game, K-State Head Coach Chris Klieman said he didn't know the specifics of the injury, or how long it could sideline his star player.
“No I can't say right now, I visited with him at the time and was pretty emotional," said Klieman. "I saw it happen last year in the second game, and had some deja vu kinda going through my mind. I’m sick for the kid. We’ll pray for the best and see what happens.”
However, Sunday night, the Wichita Eagle's Kellis Robinett reported there is growing optimism that Thompson could return under center for the Wildcats this season.
In Robinett's article HERE, he reports that two sources believe Thompson could even return in just a few weeks. The time table for his return ultimately would depend on how Thompson's body responds to treatment, and heals, but nonetheless, the report is a positive one for K-State fans.
Will Howard took Thompson's place last season after a season-ending shoulder injury; however, K-State lost its final five games en route to a 4-6 season.
Saturday, Howard completed just eight of his 17 pass attempts, with one interception, leaving several questions about where K-State's season may be headed.
For now, the Wildcats will focus on the development of its young quarterback and look ahead to a challenging Nevada opponent who comes to Manhattan on Saturday.