Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman promptly dispels speculation regarding his retirement.
- Derik
- Nov 19, 2024
- 2 min read

For those who may be swayed by internet speculation regarding Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman's potential retirement, it is advisable to dismiss such notions. During his weekly news conference on Monday, Klieman addressed the rumors directly, stating, "I don't know where you got that from. I haven't said that to anybody." Athletics director Gene Taylor, present at the conference, interjected with a smile, emphasizing that there should be no truth to the rumors. Klieman humorously added, "Especially if I announce it here and (Taylor) is sitting here. I'd have more issues than that, plus my wife's not in town. I'd be really in trouble." The speculation likely arose following Klieman's emotional reflection on K-State's disappointing 24-14 defeat to Arizona State, a loss that marked the Wildcats' second consecutive setback, leaving them with a record of 7-3 overall and 4-3 in the Big 12 as they prepare for their home finale against Cincinnati this Saturday at 7 p.m. Additionally, Klieman has been navigating personal challenges in recent weeks that have affected him and his family. "That's been probably the biggest struggle for me right now, not having family around," Klieman remarked.
He expressed gratitude for the support from his colleagues, stating, "The guys upstairs and the guys downstairs, everybody in this building, has gone out of their way to help the situation that we're going through. All the wives have been really helpful in the situation we're going through. It sucks. I'll just be honest with you, it does. But when you're surrounded by people that care, surrounded by people that love (wife) Rhonda and I, it makes it easier. It's not easy, but it makes it easier." There are indications that improvements are being made on the home front. Positive developments are beginning to emerge for us, and we intend to reflect on this and acknowledge the progress being made, Klieman stated. He also emphasized that he has no plans to leave in the near future.