BREAKING: Kansas State Football Head Coach Chris Klieman Makes History with Major Wins at NCAA Coaches’ Conference, Taking Home Awards for ‘Coaching Staff of the Year,’ ‘Innovative Offense,’ and ‘Outstanding Recruiting Efforts’
In a landmark moment for Kansas State University football, Head Coach Chris Klieman has made history at the NCAA Coaches’ Conference by sweeping three of the most prestigious awards presented during the annual event. Klieman and his staff were honored with ‘Coaching Staff of the Year,’ ‘Innovative Offense,’ and ‘Outstanding Recruiting Efforts,’ cementing his status as one of the top minds in college football today.
The awards are a testament to the Wildcats’ continued evolution under Klieman’s leadership. Since taking the reins in 2019, he has steadily built a program rooted in discipline, resilience, and smart football. But 2024 marked a true turning point. Not only did the Wildcats post one of their best records in over a decade, but they also showcased a high-powered, unpredictable offense that left opponents scrambling.
Klieman’s recognition for ‘Innovative Offense’ came as no surprise to insiders. The Wildcats ran a balanced but creatively aggressive scheme that blended spread concepts with power run elements. The use of motion, misdirection, and versatile personnel packages kept defenses guessing all season long. Much of the credit goes to offensive coordinator Collin Klein, a former Wildcat quarterback, whose play-calling earned widespread praise. The offense averaged over 35 points per game, breaking several program records in the process.
Meanwhile, the ‘Outstanding Recruiting Efforts’ award highlights one of the most underrated aspects of Klieman’s tenure. Kansas State may not always compete with blue-blood programs in recruiting rankings, but Klieman and his staff have built a reputation for identifying under-the-radar talent and developing it into elite-level college players. The 2024 class, in particular, was praised for its depth, athleticism, and versatility, drawing national attention after flipping several high-profile recruits previously committed to Power Five rivals.
The ‘Coaching Staff of the Year’ honor is perhaps the most significant. It reflects the collaborative effort behind Kansas State’s resurgence. From the coordinators to position coaches, strength and conditioning staff, and support personnel, the Wildcats have cultivated a culture of accountability, innovation, and unity. Under Klieman, the team culture emphasizes player development, mental toughness, and a “family-first” mindset — values that have translated into consistent on-field success and growing national respect.
In his acceptance speech at the conference, Klieman remained humble, crediting his staff, players, and university community for the program’s achievements. “This isn’t about me,” he said. “It’s about a team that believes in each other, a coaching staff that works tirelessly, and a university that supports football the right way.”
As Kansas State looks ahead to the 2025 season, expectations have never been higher. With award-winning leadership, a dynamic roster, and a proven culture, the Wildcats are poised to make even more noise on the national stage. And with Chris Klieman at the helm, the sky may be the limit.