K-State players and coaches confident with experienced defense

MANHATTAN (KSNT) - There's less than three weeks until K-State football kicks of its 2025 season in Ireland against Big 12 foe Iowa State, and both players and coaches feel confident going into the matchup.

The 'Cats linebackers coach, Steve Stanard, is excited about the competition amongst his unit, with players looking to shake up their rankings on the depth chart.

"We've got two good linebackers, I think two of the better ones in the Big 12," Stanard said. "But, it's going to be the third and the fourth and the fifth guy, and right now we have some really good competition, and we've got some guys really competing right now to be that third and that fourth and that fifth."

Kansas State has plenty of experience on its defense, with seniors Damian Ilalio and Uso Seumalo leading the way.

Defensive tackles coach Mike Tuaisosopo is optimistic and hopes the veterans can pass their skills to the younger players.

"There is no substitution for that [experience]," Tuiasosopo said. "You know, you're talking about experience with Damian and Uso and now, bringing Mack (Malcolm Alcorn-Crowder) along and some of the younger guys. You want a guy like Asher Tomaszewski to take the next step."

Ilalio, a defensive tackle, is looking forward to fans seeing how much junior defensive tackle Malcolm Alcorn-Crowder has improved.

"I know Mack has gone a long way. When he got here, he was like a baby, pretty much," Ilalio said through laughter. "We've had a lot of fun getting him better, introducing him to some new concepts that might not have known before. Just his growth is really good to see."