Overall, the Jayhawks had a rough season in coach Charlie Weis’ second year. But they also snapped the program’s conference losing streak and hung tough with Oklahoma and Texas.
Below is a wrap on Kansas’ 2013 season:
Offensive MVP: Even though the Jayhawks struggled to score points, running back James Sims was one of the best running backs in the league. Even with defenses geared to stop him, Sims rushed for 1,110 yards and seven touchdowns. In Kansas’ first Big 12 win in 28 tries, Sims exploded for 211 yards and three touchdowns in a 31-19 victory over West Virginia.
Defensive MVP: Ben Heeney was one of the better linebackers in the league on a defense that kept the Jayhawks in many games. He was tied for 11th in the league in tackles, and was a major reason why the Jayhawks were improved defensively.
Best moment: The Jayhawks went into their game Nov. 16 against West Virginia on a 27-game Big 12 losing streak. But riding Sims, who broke off runs of 62 and 68 yards, they jumped to a 31-7 lead, and finally won a conference game going away. Kansas fans stormed the field, then tore down the south goalpost. They had reason to celebrate. It was just the second Big 12 win in 40 games for the Jayhawks.
Worst moment: The Jayhawks had Texas Tech on the ropes in their Big 12 opener. They dominated the first quarter and held a 10-0 lead into the second. But they completely melted down, highlighted by a bizarre failed fake punt attempt from inside the Kansas 5. That allowed the Red Raiders to take a 17-10 lead, and Tech coasted to a 54-16 victory.
