Manhattan ? Kansas State’s players insist that there’s only one game on their schedule.

Despite the 12 schools that appear on their schedule, the Wildcats (4-0) have adopted a simple motto “One and O”. That means the players have made it a point to designate every week’s game as the season’s most important.

Although coaches frequently tell players to “take one game at a time,” the Wildcats’ insistence on focus and preparation each week is evidence that last season’s 6-6 record has left a nasty taste in their mouths.

Linebacker Josh Buhl said the Wildcats’ newfound attitude will be present when they play Colorado (2-2) today at Boulder, Colo.

“We all know that 6-6 is not acceptable for K-State,” said tight end Thomas Hill. “We all understand that we can do big things, but we have to be on the same page. There’s more fire in our eyes this year.”

Hill came up with the phrase and it quickly became a team adage.

He said so far Kansas State has displayed a focus and unity that was missing last season, when the team compiled coach Bill Snyder’s worst record since 1992.

Last year, Kansas State won its first three games and looked like it could take a shot at the Big 12 North title. But KSU lost to Oklahoma, then lost three more in a row.

The Wildcats nearly missed out on appearing in the program’s ninth straight bowl game.

“We were focused on the future and the past instead of that day,” Hill said.

Center Steve Washington said the lack of leadership and mental focus resulted in the disappointing finish.

“We haven’t forgotten what happened,” he said. “But during the summer, we’ve decided to be dedicated for every practice and every snap. It’s goes back to that 1-0 thing.”

Buhl said that was missing when the Buffaloes beat the Wildcats 16-6 at home.

The loss to the Sooners weighed heavy on the players’ minds and their play reflected it, Buhl said.

This season, Kansas State is undefeated and coming off a 27-20 win against No. 17 Southern California.

“We’re definitely playing with a lot of confidence and character right now,” Buhl said. “They scheduled us on Homecoming week.

“That’s a slap in the face. Motivation won’t be a problem this week.”