Going into the December 17, 1973 Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Ten., the Jayhawks were modest favorites over the North Carolina State Wolfpack. NC State’s 31-18 upset victory came despite the Jayhawks holding onto a 10-10 tie score in the third quarter.
On fourth and six, NC State punted from their own 44 yard-line. KU’s Bruce Adams was apparently tripped while calling for a fair catch but no call was made. NC State recovered the ball and scored two plays later.
With momentum and emotion on their side, the Wolfpack scored twice more before Kansas regrouped for a fourth quarter scoring drive but it was too late to turn the tide.
The game was All-American quarterback, David Jaynes’ last appearance as a Jayhawk. He was named the game’s outstanding offensive player, completing 24 of 38 passes for 218 yards.