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Annual Rivalry · Big 12
Sunflower Showdown Odds & Betting
The Sunflower Showdown — Kansas Jayhawks vs Kansas State Wildcats football — is the most-bet single college football game in the Kansas market every year. The rivalry dates back to 1902 and has produced 120+ meetings, with K-State leading the all-time series. Every Kansas sportsbook offers enhanced markets in the days leading up to the matchup.
Sunflower Showdown Bet Types
Spread: typically -7 to -14 in favor of K-State in recent years. Total: typically 50.5-58.5. Moneyline: wide pricing depending on KU\'s rebuild progress. Player props: QB pass yards, RB rush yards, anytime TD scorers, longest TD. Same-game parlays: heavily promoted at DraftKings and FanDuel.
Best Bets for the Rivalry
Historical data favors home underdogs in the Sunflower Showdown — emotion and travel matter more than power-ranking gaps in this rivalry. Live betting offers consistent value when one team starts fast and the line overcorrects.
Where to Bet the Sunflower Showdown
theScore Bet has the strongest Big 12 prop coverage. DraftKings and FanDuel offer the deepest same-game parlay options. BetMGM consistently runs first-bet insurance promos on rivalry games. Compare all Kansas welcome bonuses.
Top Kansas Sportsbooks for College Football
Sunflower Showdown FAQ
When is the Sunflower Showdown?
The KU vs K-State football matchup typically takes place in late October or early November as a Big 12 conference game. Exact date varies year by year based on Big 12 scheduling.
Can I bet on the Sunflower Showdown in Kansas?
Yes. All seven Kansas sportsbooks offer full markets on KU vs K-State games including spread, total, moneyline, player props, and same-game parlays.
Who has won more Sunflower Showdowns?
K-State leads the all-time series. The rivalry dates to 1902, and K-State has dominated since 1992. KU's recent rebuilds under Lance Leipold have made the matchup more competitive.