The tension was real before the final whistle blew in Dublin, but it wasn’t the score or stats people talked about as the Kansas State Wildcats boarded the bus. Rain poured, emotions flared, and after 60 gritty minutes on the field, it was a post-game scuffle involving Avery Johnson’s brother and father that stole all the attention from the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. For Johnson, a strong outing wasn’t enough; his family’s actions became the headline that followed Kansas State home from Ireland.
Why Did Shannon Sharpe Address Avery Johnson’s Family Fight After Kansas State’s Loss?
The Wildcats dropped a close one to the Iowa State Cyclones, 24-21, as No. 17 Kansas State couldn’t hold off No. 22 Iowa State in a messy, rain-filled game. Johnson put up good numbers, going 21-of-30 with 273 passing yards, two touchdown passes, and rushing eight times for 21 yards with another score. Johnson was responsible for all three Kansas State touchdowns. Still, by the end, the focus was on a post-game fight that cast a shadow over the team’s mood.
Former three-time Super Bowl-winning tight end Shannon Sharpe didn’t hold back when asked about the viral video. “If you can’t have any alcohol don’t drink. This is an awful look,” Sharpe said. “The starting QB of a D1 school, his dad and his brother are fighting.”
That fight went viral after fans spotted two men brawling just outside Aviva Stadium, where 47,221 packed in to watch the “Farmageddon” rivalry. Sharpe was clear that Johnson’s performance was buried by the headlines afterward.
“We’re not saying it doesn’t happen, but just because it happens doesn’t make it right,” Sharpe added. “It’s just tough to see. Without us fighting ourselves, we got enough to fight. We have enough issues that don’t involve us.”
Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson co-hosts with Sharpe on “Nightcap.” Both were far from happy about the incident and discussed how moments like these put athletes in tough spots. Ochocinco pointed out that, while things like this happen, it’s a challenging situation for a star QB’s family.
Johnson’s family did offer an apology on social media. Both dad, Mark, and brother, Anthony, took responsibility for their actions.
NEW: Kansas State QB Avery Johnson’s father (Mark) and his brother (Anthony) have released a joint statement following yesterday’s fight⬇️
(via @PeteNakos_) https://t.co/4xFWh6uVE4 pic.twitter.com/G9AHjyAYIf
— On3 (@On3sports) August 24, 2025
“We sincerely apologize for our actions following yesterday’s football game in Ireland. Senseless bickering escalated into an unnecessary fight. We have resolved our differences and take full responsibility for our actions. We have apologized to our immediate and extended family, and now extend our apologies to Kansas State University, its alumni, and fans.
“We regret this incident, have learned from it, and are committed to ensuring it doesn’t happen again,” said Mark and Anthony Johnson. “Please accept our deepest apologies.”
What Does Avery Johnson’s Aer Lingus Classic Performance Mean for Kansas State in 2025-26?
The Big 12 Conference shared three minutes of highlights showing Johnson’s day in Ireland. Even though he started slow, just 1-for-4 and minus three yards in the first quarter, he bounced back strong. This Week 0 game showed that teams use these early matchups to find their rhythm for the season.
Last season, the junior quarterback threw for 2,712 yards, finished with a 25-to-10 touchdown-to-interception ratio, and completed 58.3% of his passes. Against Iowa State, Johnson’s 70% completion rate was a positive shift. He’s also dangerous on the run, and his rushing touchdown against the Cyclones marked the 15th of his college career. In 2025-26, Johnson needs only 99 more rushing yards to reach 1,000 for his college career. He got off to a strong start with 21 yards against Iowa State.
