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Ron Prince Takes the Reins at Kansas State University

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

At 37, Ron Prince became Kansas State's 33rd head football coach on Dec. 5, 2005, bringing with him a youthful staff and roster. Prince's arrival was met with excitement, as evident from a school-record crowd of nearly 32,000 attending the Wildcats' spring game in April. With a backfield featuring 18-year-old quarterback Josh Freeman and running back Leon Patton, the team's performance has been impressive, with Patton averaging 152.8 all-purpose yards in Big 12 action. Prince's first team has faced challenges, including a four-game losing streak, but the coach remains optimistic, urging fans to be patient and trusting that his young players will improve with time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ron Prince, 37, became Kansas State's 33rd head football coach on Dec. 5, 2005, surrounded by an eight-assistant coaching staff with an average age of 36.9.
  • The team features a young roster, with 10 starters under the age of 21, including quarterback Josh Freeman and running back Leon Patton, both 18-year-old true freshmen.
  • Prince's players have shown promise, with Patton averaging 152.8 all-purpose yards in Big 12 action and Freeman leading the backfield to 262 yards against Missouri.
  • The team has faced challenges, including a four-game losing streak, but Prince remains hopeful, citing a growing pains for his players.
  • Kansas State athletics director Tim Weiser stated that the mission is to find an individual committed to excellence, noting that Ron Prince is the right person for the job.

Statistics:

  • The Wildcats' spring game drew a school-record crowd of nearly 32,000.
  • Leon Patton averages 152.8 all-purpose yards in Big 12 action.
  • The team's backfield has rushed for 262 yards against Missouri.
  • Kansas State fans have been requesting patience with Prince through an open letter from former Wildcat coach Bill Snyder.
  • The team's defense is allowing 35.2 points per game in Big 12 play.

Sources:

  • Beaton, K. (Oct. 27). Ron Prince Gets Kansas State Off to Fast Start. WCFCourier.
  • McClatchy-Tribune Business News. (2006). Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Business News.

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