Kansas ends road losing streak, mauls CMU

Kansas' record breaking road losing streak ended at 46 games Saturday, as they went to Mount Pleasant and took down a Central Michigan team that beat them 45-27 last year in Lawrence.

Things were ugly through the first half, with just over 200 total yards gained between the two teams. A 31 yard touchdown pass to Kerr Johnson, Jr was the only thing standing between Kansas and 0-0 tie. The Jayhawks took a 7-0 lead into the locker room, putting an incredibly sloppy half of play behind them.

Things turned around quickly after the break. CMU fumbled on the first play from scrimmage, giving Kansas the ball just outside the red zone. Unfortunately, they would only lose yards, and Gabe Rui, who made a 54 yarder just last week, pulled a 39 yard attempt wide left.

Fortunately, CMU didn't fare any better, and Kansas marched the ball down the field, capping the drive with a 20 yard touchdown run by true freshman Pooka Williams in his college debut.

Williams quickly endeared himself to the Kansas fanbase, putting together a second half he won't forget any time soon. After a Joe Dineen interception, Williams took it 41 yards down the sideline for a second score. Central Michigan put seven points on the board afterward, but that would be their only contribution to the scoreboard.

Cornerback Shakial Taylor ran back a pick six to make it 28-7, and Rui connected on a field goal to cap things off. The Jayhawks travel back to Kansas as 31-7 victors.

Kansas picked off four passes and recovered two fumbles, hopefully putting last year's horrible turnover luck to rest. Peyton Bender was 17-36 for 137 yards and a score in an uninspiring performance. Pooka Williams went for 125 yards on 14 carries for a memorable debut, while Dom Williams and Khalil Herbert combined for just 61 yards on 19 carries.

The defense was very solid, but the offensive line still has serious issues. Pooka Williams was able to run circles around a bad MAC team, but he likely won't be able to do that to Big 12 competition.

Anyway, this isn't the time to dwell on the team's concerns. Celebrate a victory for your Jayhawks tonight, and the end of a losing streak that we've all had to hear way too much about.