Kansas State Quarterback Avery Johnson Shares Why Facing Alabama Would Be His Ultimate Dream Matchup on College Football’s Grandest Stage

Kansas State Quarterback Avery Johnson Shares Why Facing Alabama Would Be His Ultimate Dream Matchup on College Football’s Grandest Stage

Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson has already made headlines with his on-field ability, dual-threat explosiveness, and leadership qualities since arriving in Manhattan. But now, he’s drawing attention with words rather than passes — specifically, by revealing the team he would most love to play against: the Alabama Crimson Tide. In a recent interview, Johnson was asked what his dream matchup would be if he could face any program in the country. Without hesitation, he responded, “Alabama. Playing them would be the dream.”

While this may seem like a simple answer — after all, who wouldn’t want to face the most iconic program in college football? — Johnson’s statement speaks volumes about his mindset, aspirations, and the trajectory of both his career and the Kansas State program. The desire to face Alabama isn’t about attention or clout. It’s about competition, legacy, and proving that the Wildcats belong on the biggest stage with the game’s blue bloods.

For a rising quarterback like Johnson, Alabama represents the standard. Decades of dominance, national championships, NFL-level talent, and a culture of winning make the Crimson Tide the gold standard in college football. Even as Alabama transitions into the post-Nick Saban era under Kalen DeBoer, the mystique remains. The jerseys, the atmosphere at Bryant-Denny Stadium, the national spotlight — it’s all part of what makes Alabama the dream opponent for so many college football players.

But Johnson isn’t just dreaming — he’s preparing. As a former four-star recruit and one of the most highly touted quarterbacks to ever sign with Kansas State, he came to Manhattan with expectations and ambition. In limited action during the 2023 season, Johnson flashed his potential as both a runner and a passer. His ability to improvise, extend plays, and threaten defenses with his legs makes him one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the Big 12.

Now stepping into a full-time starting role, Johnson is set to become the face of the Wildcats in 2025. The team’s success will largely hinge on his growth, poise, and playmaking. But if his offseason comments are any indication, he’s not shying away from the spotlight — he’s embracing it.

What makes Johnson’s statement even more compelling is the broader context of Kansas State football. Under head coach Chris Klieman, the Wildcats have consistently punched above their weight. They captured the Big 12 Championship in 2022, have remained competitive in conference play, and are establishing themselves as a program built on toughness, discipline, and development. The addition of a dynamic quarterback like Johnson could be the catalyst that takes them from respected to feared.

Facing Alabama, of course, would be more than just a personal goal for Johnson — it would be a statement for the entire Kansas State program. It would mean national relevance, major bowl implications, and a chance to stand toe-to-toe with one of the sport’s greatest dynasties. Whether it happens in a playoff, a New Year’s Six bowl, or a marquee non-conference game in the future, Johnson clearly wants that test.

It also highlights a shift in mindset for Kansas State athletes. In past decades, Wildcats players might have been content to compete regionally or hope for a respectable bowl finish. But this new generation, led by confident, talented players like Johnson, is aiming higher. They’re not just looking to play — they’re looking to compete with the best.

“I grew up watching Alabama win everything,” Johnson said during the interview. “If you want to be the best, you’ve got to beat the best. I want that shot.”

That kind of quote resonates deeply in today’s college football environment, where parity is increasing and the playoff is expanding. With the 12-team College Football Playoff now in place, a program like Kansas State has a legitimate path to compete for a national title. No longer do they need to go undefeated to reach the postseason. If Johnson can lead the Wildcats to a strong season and a top-12 finish, that dream matchup against Alabama might not be so far-fetched after all.

And while Alabama remains one of the most feared names in college football, they too are undergoing transition. Nick Saban’s retirement marked the end of an era, and new head coach Kalen DeBoer is tasked with maintaining a legacy that few can replicate. While DeBoer is respected for his work at Washington and is expected to keep Alabama nationally competitive, the program is no longer invincible. That presents a real opportunity for teams like Kansas State to close the gap.

Johnson seems to understand that dynamic perfectly. His dream is not just rooted in nostalgia or admiration — it’s built on belief. He believes in himself, in his team, and in their ability to compete with anyone, even the sport’s most dominant force.

From a skillset standpoint, Johnson has the tools to give a team like Alabama trouble. His elusiveness, quick decision-making, and ability to throw on the run could frustrate even the most athletic defenses. And with the Wildcats’ emphasis on offensive line development and physical play up front, Kansas State would not be easily overmatched in the trenches — a prerequisite for success against a team like the Tide.

Johnson’s growth as a passer will be key. While he’s already dangerous on the ground, continued development in reading defenses, throwing into tight windows, and handling pressure will determine just how high his ceiling can go. Reports from spring practice and offseason workouts suggest he’s made significant strides, earning praise from coaches and teammates alike for his maturity and work ethic.

Kansas State’s 2025 schedule sets up favorably, with opportunities to climb the rankings and build momentum. If Johnson delivers the breakout season many are expecting, he’ll not only elevate the Wildcats in the national conversation — he could also position himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

There’s also an intangible quality to Johnson that makes him special. Confidence without arrogance. Vision without complacency. His Alabama comments weren’t boastful — they were aspirational. That’s the mark of a leader who doesn’t fear competition but craves it. And in a sport where confidence can often be the difference in close games, that edge could carry Kansas State far.

Fans have responded enthusiastically to Johnson’s statement. Many see it as a rallying cry, a symbol that Kansas State is no longer content to be a dark horse or an underdog. They want to be contenders — and they believe Johnson is the quarterback who can take them there.

The college football world has changed dramatically in the past few years. NIL, conference realignment, and playoff expansion have reshaped the landscape. But one constant remains: the road to greatness runs through teams like Alabama. Avery Johnson knows it. And now he’s daring to dream — not just of playing them, but of beating them.

That mindset, more than anything, could be the key to unlocking Kansas State’s next great era. And if the day comes when Johnson and the Wildcats do face Alabama under the brightest lights, rest assured: it won’t be just a dream anymore. It’ll be the moment he’s been preparing for his entire career.