The Kansas State program appears to be in turmoil.

After losing the last four games of 2007 by a combined total of 86 points, the Wildcats lost 11 starters and three assistant coaches while signing 19 junior-college transfers in an act of desperation.

Attempting to get a read on what Kansas State wants to accomplish during spring practice is difficult, since the majority of the junior-college transfers have not yet arrived and new assistants are learning their responsibilities.

It appears third-year coach Ron Prince is in over his head, which a few astute observers wondered when the little-known assistant from Virginia was plucked to replace Bill Snyder, despite no ties to Kansas State.

Although the Wildcats get up for some games, their inconsistency was marred even more by the dismal finish last season, which kept Kansas State from qualifying for a bowl after it went 5-7 overall and 3-5 in the Big 12.

Offensively, the Wildcats return quarterback Josh Freeman, who threw for a school-record 3,353 yards last season. But his main target, All-America receiver Jordy Nelson, is gone. That could require more diversity in the Kansas State attack.

Defensively, Ian Campbell will move back to end after a dreadful move to outside linebacker left him schemed out of plays by opponents last season.

Judgment concerning any newcomers, and what impact they provide, must be reserved for fall camp, when Kansas State begins anew with several additional transfers. There will be little time to develop those players, and the turnover on the coaching staff only complicates matters.

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