Kansas State’s Newly Appointed Offensive Coordinator Matt Wells Unveils Ambitious and Dynamic Strategy to Maximize Quarterback Avery Johnson’s Dual-Threat Abilities in the 2025 Season, Aiming to Propel the Wildcats to Unprecedented Offensive Heights

Introduction: A New Era for Kansas State’s Offense

Kansas State football has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, thanks to strong recruiting, disciplined coaching, and a commitment to player development. As the Wildcats gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on quarterback Avery Johnson and how he will be utilized under newly appointed offensive coordinator Matt Wells.

Wells, a seasoned coach with experience at Utah State and Texas Tech, has built a reputation for crafting explosive offenses that maximize the talents of his quarterbacks. His hiring signals a shift toward a more dynamic offensive approach, one that will revolve around the unique skill set of Avery Johnson—a quarterback with game-changing speed, a strong arm, and high football IQ.

With Kansas State aiming to contend for a Big 12 Championship and beyond, Wells’ vision for the offense is crucial. His ability to develop Johnson into an elite dual-threat quarterback could be the key to unlocking the Wildcats’ full potential.

In this in-depth analysis, we will explore how Wells plans to use Johnson in 2025, the strengths and challenges of this approach, the historical context of Kansas State’s quarterback development, and the impact this strategy could have on the team’s success.

The Rise of Avery Johnson: Kansas State’s Next Star Quarterback

Avery Johnson was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, regarded as one of the most athletic quarterbacks in his class. His ability to extend plays with his legs, combined with his improving passing skills, made him an ideal fit for Kansas State’s offense.

Johnson spent his early years learning behind veteran quarterbacks, but the 2025 season marks his time to take full control of the offense. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Wells will structure the playbook to complement Johnson’s strengths.

One thing is clear: Wells believes Johnson is a special talent, and his offensive philosophy will revolve around maximizing the young quarterback’s abilities in every possible way.

Matt Wells’ Offensive Philosophy: A Perfect Fit for Johnson?

Wells’ history as a play-caller suggests that he prefers an aggressive, up-tempo offense that can strike quickly both through the air and on the ground. At Utah State, he helped develop Jordan Love, who became an NFL first-round draft pick. At Texas Tech, he maintained the Red Raiders’ tradition of high-powered offenses, emphasizing creativity and unpredictability.

Now, at Kansas State, Wells has a quarterback with the rare ability to both throw and run at a high level. Johnson’s mobility provides an element that defenses must respect, and Wells is expected to take full advantage of that by designing an offense that:

1. Utilizes the Zone-Read to Open Up Running Lanes

   • Johnson’s ability to make quick reads in the zone-read scheme will allow Kansas State’s rushing attack to become even more potent.
   • Defenses will be forced to account for Johnson keeping the ball, which will create opportunities for running backs and limit defensive pressure.

2. Incorporates More RPOs (Run-Pass Options)

   • RPOs allow Johnson to read the defense and decide whether to hand off, run himself, or throw a quick pass.
   • Wells has historically leaned on RPO-heavy systems, and Johnson’s decision-making will be key in executing this strategy effectively.

3. Emphasizes Vertical Passing to Keep Defenses Honest

   • While Johnson is known for his running ability, Wells has made it clear that he wants to develop him into a true dual-threat quarterback, not just a runner who occasionally throws.
   • Expect the offense to feature more deep passes, play-action plays, and designed rollouts that allow Johnson to use his arm strength.

4. Moves the Pocket to Maximize Johnson’s Athleticism

   • Instead of keeping Johnson as a traditional pocket passer, Wells will design plays that allow him to throw on the move, take advantage of mismatches, and escape pressure.
   • This approach will make Kansas State’s offense less predictable and harder to defend.

Historical Context: How Does Johnson Compare to Past Kansas State QBs?

Kansas State has had success with dual-threat quarterbacks in the past, and Johnson is the next in line to carry that tradition forward.

1. Michael Bishop (1997-1998)

   • Led Kansas State to its first No. 1 ranking in school history.
   • Possessed a strong arm and elite mobility, much like Johnson.

2. Ell Roberson (2000-2003)

   • One of the best running quarterbacks in Kansas State history.
   • Helped lead the Wildcats to a Big 12 Championship in 2003.

3. Collin Klein (2009-2012)

   • Known for his toughness and ability to dominate on the ground.
   • Finished as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2012.

4. Skylar Thompson (2016-2021)

   • A more balanced passer and runner, much like what Wells envisions for Johnson.
   • Led Kansas State to multiple bowl wins.

Johnson’s potential is unique because he possesses the speed of Roberson, the playmaking ability of Bishop, and the versatility of Thompson. Under Wells, he has the chance to become one of the most complete quarterbacks in Kansas State history.

Potential Challenges in Implementing This New System

While Wells’ offensive strategy is exciting, it does come with challenges.

1. Offensive Line Play Must Improve

   • A mobile quarterback like Johnson can extend plays, but he still needs a solid offensive line to protect him.
   • If the Wildcats struggle in pass protection, Johnson may be forced to run more than Wells would prefer.

2. Injury Concerns for a Running QB

   • Quarterbacks who run frequently are at greater risk of taking hits.
   • Wells will need to find the right balance to keep Johnson healthy while still using his mobility as a weapon.

3. Developing Johnson’s Passing Consistency

   • While Johnson has a strong arm, his accuracy and decision-making need to continue improving.
   • Wells and the coaching staff must ensure he is comfortable in the passing game so defenses don’t just load the box to stop his running ability.

4. Adapting to Different Defensive Schemes

   • Big 12 defenses will adjust as they get more film on Johnson.
   • Wells must ensure the offense remains unpredictable and adaptable.

The Big Picture: What This Means for Kansas State’s Future

If Wells’ plan for Johnson is successful, Kansas State could become a legitimate Big 12 contender and even make a push for the expanded College Football Playoff in 2025.

A few key expectations for the season include:

• A More Explosive Offense

  • With Johnson leading the way, Kansas State could average more points per game than in previous seasons.

• Increased National Attention

  • A breakout season from Johnson would put him in the Heisman conversation and elevate Kansas State’s profile nationally.

• A Chance to Compete for a Big 12 Championship

  • If the offense clicks, the Wildcats could find themselves in the conference title game.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Season for Avery Johnson and Matt Wells

Kansas State’s decision to bring in Matt Wells as offensive coordinator was made with one goal in mind: to take Avery Johnson’s game to the next level. With a quarterback as talented as Johnson, Wells has a golden opportunity to craft an offense that not only wins games but also excites fans and attracts top recruits.

If everything falls into place, 2025 could be a historic season for Kansas State football. Johnson has the tools to become one of the best quarterbacks in the program’s history, and under Wells’ guidance, he may just lead the Wildcats to heights they haven’t reached in decades.

For Kansas State fans, the anticipation is building. The Wildcats have a star quarterback, a dynamic play-caller, and a team ready to make noise. Now, it’s time to see if they can turn this potential into reality.