{
  "id": 10359416,
  "title": "Four takeaways from Cincinnati’s statement 31-26 win over Kansas State",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/four-takeaways-from-cincinnatis-statement-31-26-win-over-kansas-state",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-28T04:01:11.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/four-takeaways-cincinnati-statement-31-040111261.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Here are four key takeaways from the Cincinnati Bearcats' 31-26 victory over Kansas State:\n\n1. Cincinnati's run blocking has improved greatly this season. The Bearcats' offensive line, featuring returning starters Evan Tengesdahl, Joe Cotton, and Taran Tyo, has allowed the second-fewest sacks in the FBS and ranks seventh in rushing offense at 270 yards per game. This dominant run blocking significantly contributed to the Bearcats' success, as they only needed eight completions on 13 attempts against Kansas State.\n\n2. The Bearcats' running backs have been instrumental in the offensive success. Gi'Bran Payne totaled 126 rushing yards, while Cole Tabb added 124 yards and three touchdowns. Tabb, averaging 11.1 yards per carry, is currently the FBS leader among ball carriers with at least 10 attempts. The Bearcats' backs have shown impressive abilities to read the blocks and make cuts before hitting the hole, making them a potent offensive force.\n\n3. Cincinnati's defense has shown promise in closing out games. Although the Bearcats have started games slow and trailed in first halves 45-27 this season, they have made strong comebacks in the second halves of all four games they've played. Cincinnati's second-half scores have been impressive, totaling 107 points compared to the Wildcats' 27. The defense appears to turn things up in second halves, often fueled by Cole Tabb's strong running game and the offensive line's blocking.\n\n4. The Bearcats need to improve their coverage to contend with top teams in the Big 12. Cincinnati's passing defense is currently ranked 117th in the nation, allowing 254 yards per game. Only 13 FBS teams have allowed more completions over 10 yards, while 13 have allowed more completions over 30 yards. Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson threw for 292 yards and three touchdowns in the game against Cincinnati, highlighting the need for improved coverage. While the Bearcats have picked off three passes this season, with a 1-of-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio, there is still room for improvement, particularly in facing the potent offense of Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita in their upcoming matchup.",
  "summary": "The Bearcats finish strong (again) to record their first 4-0 start since 2021.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}