Manhattan ? Bill Snyder, who took Kansas State from perpetual futility to national prominence in his 17 seasons as the Wildcats’ coach, issued a plea Thursday for fans to cut first-year coach Ron Prince some slack.

Snyder sent an open letter to the state’s newspapers and broadcast outlets, asking for it to be published or read on air before Saturday’s home game against Iowa State.

In the letter, Snyder praised Kansas State fans for their support of his coaching career.

“I have stated so very often that I came to Kansas State because of the people and I’ve stayed because of the people,” he wrote. “You are truly wonderful. I am now asking that you please afford that same caring and loyal support to Ron Prince, his staff and players.

Kansas State is 4-4 overall and 1-3 in Big 12 play under Prince, the former offensive coordinator at Virginia.