Dan Manucci was a quarterback for the K-State Wildcats for the 1977 and 1978 seasons.

Currently residing in Phoenix, Ariz., he now hosts a radio show called “Calling All Sports with Roc and Manuch” for The Fan 1060 AM.

Manucci sat down with the Collegian for a Q&A; session to break down the Fiesta Bowl game, as well as talk about what it means to see his alma mater in a BCS Bowl.

Q: You were the quarterback at K-State from 1977 to 1978. What is it like to see your school in the Fiesta Bowl?

A: It is truly a miracle. Snyder brought them from where we were before he got there, and took it to another level was just incredible. However, to me, it is even more impressive the second time, the fact that he did it is even more impressive. Coach Snyder has the team in the top 15-25 in the country and competing for the big 12 and national prominence.

Q: As a former quarterback who was more of a drop-back style passer, what do you think of Collin Klein and his improvements?

A: His technique has gotten a lot better when it comes to throwing the ball. He looks so much more comfortable throwing the ball downfield. He now can make the reads deep down the field. He isn’t hoping the ball gets to the receiver, he is knowing that he is getting it to the receiver.

Q: As a co-host of Calling All Sports with Roc and Manuch on the Fan 1060 AM, you see Oregon on a pretty consistent basis. What sticks out to you, and what makes them so impressive?

A: I think it is Marcus Mariota. The way he gets the offense is so impressive. For a freshman, he shows so much poise and has that offense clicking on such a high-level. He does not get quite as much hype as many other quarterbacks, but he is a big-time player who is capable of being a star.

Q: For the Wildcats to get the win, what is the number one key?

A: They have to tackle. Oregon is going to get yards and get points, there is no way around that. However, to have any chance to beat the Ducks, you have to wrap up, because if they break tackles, look out. Also, as good as they have been this season, the Wildcats need to force a couple turnovers, and take advantage of them with touchdowns.

Q: When looking at the two teams, Oregon is very similar to Baylor, while K-State is similar to Stanford. How do you think this could effect the game?

A: K-State can’t play to lose the game. When Stanford beat Oregon, they controlled the whole tempo of the game. The were the more physical team, and had a chip on the shoulder to where you could tell they wanted the game. If there is a big play down field for K-State, take it. You have to let it all out in this game, and if they do, the Wildcats can get the victory.

Football