Prior to the 2002 season, the artificial turf was updated to a more cushioned FieldTurf surface at a cost of $800,000.

The Wildcats finished the 2002 season leading NCAA Division I-A in scoring defense (11.8 points per game) and also tied a school record by posting three shut outs.

[4] Junior quarterback Ell Roberson came off the bench early in the 2nd quarter to give the Wildcats a spark.

Kansas State built a 27–6 lead before USC scored two 4th quarter touchdowns to make it a one-possession game.

Eventual Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer completed only 18 of 47 passes for 186 yards.