MANHATTAN — Kansas State put together one big drive late in the fourth quarter to hang on for a 28-19 Pop-Tarts Bowl victory over North Carolina State at Camping World Stadium.

Here is how the Wildcats (9-4) graded out against the Wolfpack (9-4).

Offense: Wildcats save their best for last

Kansas State struggled offensively in the second half until it mattered most. The Wildcats' 7 1/2-minute drive in the fourth quarter proved to be the difference.

Grade: B+

Defense: K-State does enough to hold Wolfpack in check

The Wildcats gave up 399 yards, but came up with some huge stops, including a fourth-and-1 in the first half in the red zone. And they sealed it with an interception in the fourth quarter.

Grade: A

Special teams: Fake punt a huge play for Wildcats

Jack Blumer's 30-yard gain on a fourth down set up the Wildcats' second touchdowns. The only flaw was a penalty that took Seth Porter's punt return touchdown off the board.

Grade: A-

Coaching: Staff comes through under tough circumstances

More than 15 players in the transfer portal and two more opt-outs made this a challenge for K-State's coaches. But with interim offensive coordinator Conor Riley calling the plays, the Wildcats came through.

Grade: A

Overall grade: A

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Arne Green is based in Salina and covers Kansas State University sports for the Gannett network. He can be reached at agreen@gannett.com or on Twitter at @arnegreen.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas State football's report card against NC State in Pop-Tarts Bowl