Craig's Dual-Threat Performance Leads TCU Past Kansas 22-16

Decisive Performance

Jaden Craig orchestrated the TCU Horned Frogs' victory against the Kansas Jayhawks with a versatile two-way performance on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Craig’s ability to impact the game in multiple phases proved critical as TCU secured a 22-16 win at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth before a crowd of 32,549.

Craig finished with 141 passing yards on 13-of-29 efficiency while also contributing significantly on the ground. He carried the ball 15 times for 87 yards and scored one rushing touchdown. His dual-threat capability kept the Jayhawks' defense off balance throughout the contest, culminating in a decisive late scoring drive that sealed the outcome.

First Half Struggles

Kansas controlled the early momentum, building a 13-0 lead by halftime on the strength of its offensive execution and special teams. The Jayhawks opened the scoring in the first quarter when Martin Connington connected on a 34-yard field goal. Kansas extended its advantage in the second quarter with another Connington kick, this one from 42 yards out.

Cole Ballard directed Kansas’s offense effectively, completing 20 of 35 passes for 285 yards and one touchdown while throwing one interception. Ballard found Cam Pickett for a 29-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter to push the lead to 13-0. Despite Ballard’s passing success, Kansas struggled to generate ground momentum, with Keaton Kubecka leading the rushing attack with just 58 yards on three carries.

Nahzae Cox was the primary target for Kansas, hauling in five receptions for 145 yards, but the Jayhawks could not maintain their early dominance as the game progressed into the second half.

Third Quarter Shift

TCU began its comeback in the third quarter, sparked by a defensive turnover. Max Carroll intercepted a pass and returned it 60 yards for a touchdown, with Kyle Lemmermann adding the extra point to make the score 13-7.

The Horned Frogs quickly followed up with an offensive drive of their own, as Ace Theus powered in from 28 yards out for another touchdown, giving TCU its first lead of the game at 14-13.

Fourth Quarter Finish

Kansas responded early in the fourth quarter with a 27-yard field goal by Connington to regain the lead, 16-14. However, TCU’s offense remained persistent. Craig took control down the stretch, capping the game-winning drive with a 17-yard rushing touchdown. The Horned Frogs successfully converted a two-point play, sending Jaden Craig’s pass to Jordan Dwyer for the extra point.

The final score of 22-16 gave TCU its second consecutive win, improving its record to 4-4. Kansas fell to 3-5 on the season. Kari Ashley was a key contributor for TCU, recording three receptions for 50 yards in support of Craig’s effort.

Sources

ESPN