Overview
- Collin Klein returned to Kansas State and, according to Friday preseason reports, is in fall camp and will retain in-game play-calling despite Sean Gleeson being listed as offensive coordinator.
- Klein has built a largely new 2026 staff that includes several assistants who followed him from Texas A&M and reported salaries that show program investment, with Klein listed at $4.1 million and Jordan Peterson as defensive coordinator at $900,000.
- Analysts say Klein’s offenses consistently win time of possession and rank among the nation’s top rushers, averaging more than 31 minutes of possession and at least about 185 rushing yards per game in recent seasons.
- Klein’s system emphasizes play-action and red-zone efficiency, and reporters note he has adjusted run-pass splits to fit personnel, which could give dual-threat QB Avery Johnson more freedom to run and create explosive plays.
- Klein’s past work includes Kansas State’s 2022 Big 12 title and helping Texas A&M reach the 2025 College Football Playoff, so observers say key things to watch this season are run-pass balance, turnover rates in the red zone, and how the offensive line executes run schemes.