New Kansas State Wildcats football head coach Collin Klein is drawing on strong relationships with past mentors as he settles into his leadership role in Manhattan.
During a recent spring practice, Klein was joined on the field by former head coach Chris Klieman, whom he succeeded five months ago at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The two shared a lighthearted conversation that quickly made its way across social media, symbolizing a bridge between the program’s past and present.
However, Klein emphasized that the interaction went beyond optics. As he transitions into his new role, he has been actively seeking advice from both Klieman and legendary former coach Bill Snyder. He credits them along with Mike Elko for shaping his coaching philosophy through different lessons and experiences.
Klein’s ties to Snyder run deep, dating back to his playing days as a standout quarterback. Under Snyder’s leadership, he helped guide the Wildcats to a 10-win season and a Cotton Bowl appearance in 2011, followed by an 11-win campaign and a Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012. His performance during that stretch earned him recognition as a Heisman Trophy finalist, while Snyder led the team to a Big 12 title.
Years later, Klein returned to contribute as an assistant and played a key role in helping Klieman secure a conference championship as offensive coordinator. Even after Klieman’s retirement in December, Klein continues to rely on him as a mentor, frequently seeking guidance on various aspects of the job. The program is also exploring a formal advisory role for Klieman within the athletic department.
Klein’s coaching approach already reflects influences from both of his mentors. Like Snyder, he values physical practices—planning to hold most spring sessions in full pads and takes a detail-oriented approach, often observing and evaluating from a distance. At the same time, elements of Klieman’s style remain evident in the team’s structure and preparation.
While Klein is not trying to replicate either coach, he is blending what he has learned from both to shape his own identity—using their guidance to lead Kansas State into its next chapter.
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