Kansas · Big 12Kansas Quarterback Competition Reaches Season’s Edge Without a Named Starter
Cole Ballard says the Jayhawks’ quarterbacks are preparing one another instead of letting the battle split the room, while Andy Kotelnicki’s familiar offense gives Ballard another layer to learn as Kansas moves toward its opener.
AUG 26, 2026
01 · The NewsWhat Happened
Cole Ballard discussed Kansas’ quarterback competition at media day and said the quarterbacks have kept their attention on preparing the team rather than treating the battle as a distraction. Ballard said every quarterback wants to play, but the group also understands that each player must help the others get ready. He added that no team knows how many quarterbacks it may need during a season. Ballard is also working again with offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, whose system he played in as a freshman. He said Kotelnicki has used different methods to help the quarterbacks learn the playbook. Ballard described the offense as diverse and multiple, with players moving around to create different opportunities. Kansas has not named its starter.