Marshall's Late Run Lifts Kansas Past Baylor 25-24

A Dramatic Finish in Lawrence

The Kansas Jayhawks secured their first Big 12 win of the season on Saturday, October 24, 2026, defeating the visiting Baylor Bears 25-24 at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The outcome was decided in the final moments when quarterback Isaiah Marshall sprinted for a 15-yard touchdown, capping a furious fourth-quarter rally that overturned a Baylor lead.

A Game of Momentum Shifts

Kansas took an early 7-0 lead on Carson Bruhn’s 22-yard catch from Marshall. Baylor responded before the quarter ended with Dawson Pendergrass’ one-yard run to tie the game at 7. The second quarter passed without scoring, setting the stage for a defensive battle that quickly turned into a shootout in the third period.

Baylor seized control early in the third when Devon Jordan returned an interception 42 yards for a touchdown, pushing the Bears ahead 14-7. Kansas answered with Martin Connington’s 40-yard field goal to make it 14-10. However, Baylor struck again when DJ Lagway connected with Jayden McGowan on an eight-yard pass, extending their lead to 21-10.

Marshall and Edwards Lead the Charge

Kansas refused to fold. Marshall found Nik McMillan for a 34-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the gap to 21-16 after a failed two-point conversion. Connington kicked another field goal, making it 21-19. Baylor then added a 42-yard field goal by Rhett Armstrong to take a 24-19 lead with just minutes remaining.

The Jayhawks’ offense, fueled by Dylan Edwards’ ground game, marched down the field. Edwards rushed 30 times for 156 yards, providing the necessary push for Marshall’s critical score. With the clock winding down, Marshall broke free for a 15-yard run to put Kansas ahead 25-24. A subsequent two-point pass attempt failed, but it was enough to hold off Baylor.

Statistical Highlights and Final Record

Marshall finished with 212 passing yards on 17-of-29 passing, throwing for two touchdowns while also contributing significantly on the ground. He threw two interceptions, which included the one returned by Jordan for a score. Nik McMillan was efficient in his limited opportunities, hauling in two receptions for 66 yards and the decisive touchdown.

On the other side, Lagway completed 20 of 31 passes for 236 yards and a touchdown, also rushing 11 times for 47 yards. Gavin Freeman led Baylor’s receiving corps with nine catches for 123 yards.

The victory improved Kansas’ record to 3-4, while the loss dropped Baylor to 4-3. The game drew an attendance of 32,000 spectators to Lawrence.

Sources

ESPN