By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The high school football playoffs are officially upon us, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans (8-0), will begin their postseason push on Friday when they play host to the Chaparral Roadrunners (1-6).

The winner of this game will advance to the second round of this year’s 2A playoff to face either Kingman (6-2) or Hillsboro (5-3).

Due to inclement weather and field concerns, tonight’s game has been moved to Bissell Field on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University.

This will be the second all-time meeting between these two schools, but their second in as many years, as the Trojans got the better of the Roadrunners 50-14 in the second round of the 2022 playoffs.

While this will mark the first true postseason action for a number of Trojans, this year’s team has been thoroughly tested and should be more than up to the challenge this evening.

“We played quite a few younger guys early in the season but our guys have really grown up and they now understand the ins and outs of a high school football game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They know that every play isn’t going to be perfect but you need to line up and play the next one the best you can.”

While last year’s Chaparral team rode a confident 6-1 record into the postseason, this year’s Roadrunners limp into bracket play at 1-6, and have struggled mightily amidst a tough schedule.

Regardless of their recent struggles, Chaparral remains the most important team on Southeast’s schedule, and the next obstacle in their eternal quest for 1-0.

“Every week is all about going 1-0 and this week is no different,” Gebhardt said. “Chaparral has only won one game this year but they were solid when we saw them last year and their coaches do a good job. This time of year you have to play at your highest level or you’re going to get sent home.”

Part of the Roadrunner's struggles have come from their inability to run the football, averaging just 39 yards per game on the ground.

While Chaparral’s passing numbers look better from a yardage standpoint, a touchdown to interception rate of 9-12 has crippled their offense, delivering opportunities in bunches to their opponents.

Nonetheless, Southeast must remain vigilant against the pass-happy Roadrunners on Friday night.

“They throw the ball well and they do a good job of getting the ball downfield,” Gebhardt said. “They have a kid that runs the ball hard and Chaparral always has big guys on that line.”

Kickoff between the Trojans and Roadrunners is set for 7:00 at Bissell Field and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjLMsIsVMU4">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The high school football playoffs are officially upon us, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans (8-0), will begin their postseason push on Friday when they play host to the Chaparral Roadrunners (1-6).The winner of this game will advance to the second round of this year’s 2A playoff to face either Kingman (6-2) or Hillsboro (5-3).Due to inclement weather and field concerns, tonight’s game has been moved to Bissell Field on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University.This will be the second all-time meeting between these two schools, but their second in as many years, as the Trojans got the better of the Roadrunners 50-14 in the second round of the 2022 playoffs.While this will mark the first true postseason action for a number of Trojans, this year’s team has been thoroughly tested and should be more than up to the challenge this evening.“We played quite a few younger guys early in the season but our guys have really grown up and they now understand the ins and outs of a high school football game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They know that every play isn’t going to be perfect but you need to line up and play the next one the best you can.”While last year’s Chaparral team rode a confident 6-1 record into the postseason, this year’s Roadrunners limp into bracket play at 1-6, and have struggled mightily amidst a tough schedule.Regardless of their recent struggles, Chaparral remains the most important team on Southeast’s schedule, and the next obstacle in their eternal quest for 1-0.“Every week is all about going 1-0 and this week is no different,” Gebhardt said. “Chaparral has only won one game this year but they were solid when we saw them last year and their coaches do a good job. This time of year you have to play at your highest level or you’re going to get sent home.”Part of the Roadrunner's struggles have come from their inability to run the football, averaging just 39 yards per game on the ground.While Chaparral’s passing numbers look better from a yardage standpoint, a touchdown to interception rate of 9-12 has crippled their offense, delivering opportunities in bunches to their opponents.Nonetheless, Southeast must remain vigilant against the pass-happy Roadrunners on Friday night.“They throw the ball well and they do a good job of getting the ball downfield,” Gebhardt said. “They have a kid that runs the ball hard and Chaparral always has big guys on that line.”Kickoff between the Trojans and Roadrunners is set for 7:00 at Bissell Field and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjLMsIsVMU4">HERE</a>.

Trojans Host Chaparral to Open Postseason Play

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter- Salina Post

The Ellsworth Bearcats (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Haven Wildcats (5-3).

This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.

“We are really excited for playoff football," Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. "To be able to host a playoff game at Shanelec Field with a quality opponent in Haven is really exciting.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Garden Plain (7-1), or Halstead (3-5).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Shanelec Field in Ellsworth.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter- Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ellsworth Bearcats (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Haven Wildcats (5-3).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“We are really excited for playoff football," Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. "To be able to host a playoff game at Shanelec Field with a quality opponent in Haven is really exciting.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Garden Plain (7-1), or Halstead (3-5).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Shanelec Field in Ellsworth.

Snapshot Preview: Ellsworth vs. Haven

The Abilene Cowboys (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Ark City Bulldogs (1-7).

This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides, as the Bulldogs make their transition from 5A.

“We are excited to be hosting a playoff game again this year at Cowboy Stadium," Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. "Our players are focused, ready for the postseason, and can't wait to play on Friday. One of our pre-season goals was to win a playoff game and host the second round, that's our focus right now and the only thing we care about.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 4A playoff to face either Andover Central (5-3) or Independence (3-5).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Cowboy Stadium in Abilene.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Abilene Cowboys (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Ark City Bulldogs (1-7).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides, as the Bulldogs make their transition from 5A.“We are excited to be hosting a playoff game again this year at Cowboy Stadium," Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. "Our players are focused, ready for the postseason, and can't wait to play on Friday. One of our pre-season goals was to win a playoff game and host the second round, that's our focus right now and the only thing we care about.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 4A playoff to face either Andover Central (5-3) or Independence (3-5).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Cowboy Stadium in Abilene.

Snapshot Preview: Abilene vs. Ark City

The Minneapolis Lions (4-4), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to Silver Lake (7-1).

“My guys are looking forward to the challenges that Silver Lake poses," Lions head coach Tom Flax said. "Silver Lake is a great team that is very athletic. We have some athleticism that we feel can match up well. If we are able to control the line of scrimmage that will help pave our way to victory.&nbsp;”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Sabetha (7-1) or Atchison Co. (4-4).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Silver Lake High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Minneapolis Lions (4-4), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to Silver Lake (7-1).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“My guys are looking forward to the challenges that Silver Lake poses," Lions head coach Tom Flax said. "Silver Lake is a great team that is very athletic. We have some athleticism that we feel can match up well. If we are able to control the line of scrimmage that will help pave our way to victory.&nbsp;”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Sabetha (7-1) or Atchison Co. (4-4).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Silver Lake High School.

Snapshot Preview: Minneapolis at Silver Lake

The Salina South Cougars (0-8), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to take on Kapaun Mt. Carmel (7-1).

This will be the first meeting between the two since a week nine playoff matchup back in 2020 that went the way of the Crusaders 74-0.

“Obviously this season hasn't gone the way we wanted from a win-loss standpoint, but our guys are looking forward to an opportunity to spoil the party," South head coach Sam Sellers said. "Kapaun is an old-school, physical offense with an aggressive defense, we'll have to match their physicality to have a shot to pull off the upset.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either Salina Central (6-2), or Great Bend (5-3).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Kapaun High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina South Cougars (0-8), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to take on Kapaun Mt. Carmel (7-1).This will be the first meeting between the two since a week nine playoff matchup back in 2020 that went the way of the Crusaders 74-0.“Obviously this season hasn't gone the way we wanted from a win-loss standpoint, but our guys are looking forward to an opportunity to spoil the party," South head coach Sam Sellers said. "Kapaun is an old-school, physical offense with an aggressive defense, we'll have to match their physicality to have a shot to pull off the upset.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either Salina Central (6-2), or Great Bend (5-3).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Kapaun High School.

Snapshot Preview: Salina South at Kapaun Mt. Carmel

The Salina Central Mustangs (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Great Bend Panthers (5-3).

This will be a rematch of last year's round of 16 battle that saw Central emerge victorious 40-35.

“It’s that time of year when you either play well or you go home," Mustang head coach Mark Sandbo said. "We embrace that pressure; good teams and good programs play good football in these types of opportunities. Our seniors are excited about the opportunity to play in our stadium at least one more time. We will have to play clean football this Friday against a very good Great Bend team.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either 7-1 Kapaun Mt. Carmel or 0-8 Salina South.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Salina Stadium.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Central Mustangs (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Great Bend Panthers (5-3).This will be a rematch of last year's round of 16 battle that saw Central emerge victorious 40-35.“It’s that time of year when you either play well or you go home," Mustang head coach Mark Sandbo said. "We embrace that pressure; good teams and good programs play good football in these types of opportunities. Our seniors are excited about the opportunity to play in our stadium at least one more time. We will have to play clean football this Friday against a very good Great Bend team.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either 7-1 Kapaun Mt. Carmel or 0-8 Salina South.Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Salina Stadium.

Snapshot Preview: Salina Central vs. Great Bend

BY Adam Coulter Salina Post Contributor

Despite an inspired effort and a tough, physical game, the Sacred Heart Knights ended their season Thursday night with a 35-7 loss against the Sedgwick Cardinals. 

Wednesday's rain throughout much of the state forced a change of venue as the Class 1A playoff game was contested at Valley Center.

Sacred Heart won the opening coin toss and deferred possession until the start of the second half. Sedgwick began the game with the ball and wasted no time in scoring on its initial drive. 

The Cardinals marched down the field and led 7-0 at the 7:51 mark of the opening quarter. Offensively, following a long run from Evan Bogart, the Knights were gifted 30 additional yards in field position from two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties called against the Cardinal bench. 

That moved the ball all the way into the red zone, but Sacred Heart couldn't convert the short field into points and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Sedgwick tacked on an additional score at the 1:10 mark of the first quarter and led 14-0. 

The Knights struggled to contain the Cardinals' offense both on the ground and through the air as second-quarter touchdowns with 8:57, 6:05, and 0:16 respectively remaining until halftime extended the deficit to 35-0.

Although down by five scores, Sacred Heart came out in the second half playing inspired football. 

At the 5:24 mark of the third quarter, a Noah Hines 15-yard touchdown catch and Cam Yohe PAT put the Knights on the scoreboard with a 35-7 score. That turned out to be the lone scoring play by either team heading into the final quarter.

In the final minutes of regulation, a similar sequence as to what had happened early in the game repeated itself. A long run by the Knights, this time a Michael Matteucci 62-yard rush, was followed by two more unsportsmanlike conduct penalties against the Cardinals. This ultimately resulted in Sedgwick head coach Jeff Werner being ejected from the game. 

Unfortunately, the Knights were again unable to take advantage of the excellent field position and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Despite the 28-point loss and the Sedgwick starting offense playing the entire game, the Knights didn't surrender a single second-half point. Sacred Heart ends its season with a 2-7 record.&nbsp;

BY Adam Coulter Salina Post Contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite an inspired effort and a tough, physical game, the Sacred Heart Knights ended their season Thursday night with a 35-7 loss against the Sedgwick Cardinals. Wednesday's rain throughout much of the state forced a change of venue as the Class 1A playoff game was contested at Valley Center.Sacred Heart won the opening coin toss and deferred possession until the start of the second half. Sedgwick began the game with the ball and wasted no time in scoring on its initial drive. The Cardinals marched down the field and led 7-0 at the 7:51 mark of the opening quarter. Offensively, following a long run from Evan Bogart, the Knights were gifted 30 additional yards in field position from two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties called against the Cardinal bench. That moved the ball all the way into the red zone, but Sacred Heart couldn't convert the short field into points and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Sedgwick tacked on an additional score at the 1:10 mark of the first quarter and led 14-0. The Knights struggled to contain the Cardinals' offense both on the ground and through the air as second-quarter touchdowns with 8:57, 6:05, and 0:16 respectively remaining until halftime extended the deficit to 35-0.Although down by five scores, Sacred Heart came out in the second half playing inspired football. At the 5:24 mark of the third quarter, a Noah Hines 15-yard touchdown catch and Cam Yohe PAT put the Knights on the scoreboard with a 35-7 score. That turned out to be the lone scoring play by either team heading into the final quarter.In the final minutes of regulation, a similar sequence as to what had happened early in the game repeated itself. A long run by the Knights, this time a Michael Matteucci 62-yard rush, was followed by two more unsportsmanlike conduct penalties against the Cardinals. This ultimately resulted in Sedgwick head coach Jeff Werner being ejected from the game. Unfortunately, the Knights were again unable to take advantage of the excellent field position and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Despite the 28-point loss and the Sedgwick starting offense playing the entire game, the Knights didn't surrender a single second-half point. Sacred Heart ends its season with a 2-7 record.&nbsp;

Sacred Heart Holds Sedgwick Scoreless in Second Half, but Falls 35-7

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas City Royals right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Zack Greinke&nbsp;today was named the 2023 Fielding Bible Award winner at the pitcher position, as announced by Sports Info Solutions.

This marks the 18th&nbsp;season that Sports Info Solutions has honored the best defensive players in Major League Baseball with the Fielding Bible Awards, which are voted on by a panel of experts who consider statistical analysis and the eye test.

Greinke received 9 of the 16 1st-place votes and was voted No. 1 or 2 on all but one ballot.

Greinke finished the 2023 season 2nd&nbsp;among pitchers with 6 Defensive Runs Saved, trailing only&nbsp;Jesús Luzardo&nbsp;(7). Greinke is now the all-time leader among pitchers with 93 Defensive Runs Saved – which has been tracked since 2003 – ahead of&nbsp;Mark Buehrle&nbsp;(87) and&nbsp;Jake Westbrook&nbsp;(63).

Zack allowed only 2 stolen bases over 142.1 innings in 2023. Just two pitchers had more innings with 2 steals or fewer:&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen&nbsp;(2 SB in 153.0 IP) and&nbsp;Ryne Nelson&nbsp;(2 SB in 144.0 IP). Greinke also had 5 pickoffs in 2023, matching his career high set in 2012, while tying teammate&nbsp;Taylor Clarke&nbsp;for the American League lead among pitchers this season.

Greinke completed his 20th&nbsp;Major League season in 2023. He is the active leader among pitchers (min. 300 total chances) with a .989 fielding percentage and 62 double plays. He has not made an error in his last 145 total chances, which is the longest active streak among pitchers, according to&nbsp;Elias.

This marks Greinke's third Fielding Bible Award, following 2018 with the Arizona Diamondbacks and 2019, when he split time with the Diamondbacks and Houston Astros. Greinke's three Fielding Bible Awards rank 3rd&nbsp;among pitchers since the award was first established in 2006, trailing only&nbsp;Dallas Keuchel&nbsp;(5) and Buehrle (4).

Greinke is the first Royals pitcher to win the Fielding Bible Award and fifth different Royals player (8th&nbsp;instance) to earn the honor at any position. Previous Royals to be named a Fielding Bible Award winner include left fielder&nbsp;Alex Gordon&nbsp;(2012-14, 2018),&nbsp;Lorenzo Cain&nbsp;(multi-position winner in 2014), second baseman&nbsp;Whit Merrifield&nbsp;(2021) and center fielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;(2021).

For more information about the Fielding Bible Awards, please visit&nbsp;<a href="fieldingbible.com">fieldingbible.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686864909496.jpeg" alt="Kauffman Stadium" />
 <figcaption>Kauffman Stadium</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas City Royals right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Zack Greinke&nbsp;today was named the 2023 Fielding Bible Award winner at the pitcher position, as announced by Sports Info Solutions.This marks the 18th&nbsp;season that Sports Info Solutions has honored the best defensive players in Major League Baseball with the Fielding Bible Awards, which are voted on by a panel of experts who consider statistical analysis and the eye test.Greinke received 9 of the 16 1st-place votes and was voted No. 1 or 2 on all but one ballot.Greinke finished the 2023 season 2nd&nbsp;among pitchers with 6 Defensive Runs Saved, trailing only&nbsp;Jesús Luzardo&nbsp;(7). Greinke is now the all-time leader among pitchers with 93 Defensive Runs Saved – which has been tracked since 2003 – ahead of&nbsp;Mark Buehrle&nbsp;(87) and&nbsp;Jake Westbrook&nbsp;(63).Zack allowed only 2 stolen bases over 142.1 innings in 2023. Just two pitchers had more innings with 2 steals or fewer:&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen&nbsp;(2 SB in 153.0 IP) and&nbsp;Ryne Nelson&nbsp;(2 SB in 144.0 IP). Greinke also had 5 pickoffs in 2023, matching his career high set in 2012, while tying teammate&nbsp;Taylor Clarke&nbsp;for the American League lead among pitchers this season.Greinke completed his 20th&nbsp;Major League season in 2023. He is the active leader among pitchers (min. 300 total chances) with a .989 fielding percentage and 62 double plays. He has not made an error in his last 145 total chances, which is the longest active streak among pitchers, according to&nbsp;Elias.This marks Greinke's third Fielding Bible Award, following 2018 with the Arizona Diamondbacks and 2019, when he split time with the Diamondbacks and Houston Astros. Greinke's three Fielding Bible Awards rank 3rd&nbsp;among pitchers since the award was first established in 2006, trailing only&nbsp;Dallas Keuchel&nbsp;(5) and Buehrle (4).Greinke is the first Royals pitcher to win the Fielding Bible Award and fifth different Royals player (8th&nbsp;instance) to earn the honor at any position. Previous Royals to be named a Fielding Bible Award winner include left fielder&nbsp;Alex Gordon&nbsp;(2012-14, 2018),&nbsp;Lorenzo Cain&nbsp;(multi-position winner in 2014), second baseman&nbsp;Whit Merrifield&nbsp;(2021) and center fielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;(2021).For more information about the Fielding Bible Awards, please visit&nbsp;<a href="fieldingbible.com">fieldingbible.com</a>.

Zack Greinke named 2023 Fielding Bible Award Winner

LAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;R. Todd Slawson, a 1984 graduate of the School of Engineering, Trustee of the KU Endowment Association and a fourth-generation Jayhawk, recently continued his family’s legacy of support to KU with a gift commitment of $25 million to KU Endowment, in support of Kansas Athletics.

In the spirit of maintaining momentum for Kansas Athletics, Slawson has ensured that a significant portion of his gift will support the Gateway District.&nbsp; First announced last October by Chancellor Douglas Girod and Director of Athletics Travis Goff, the Gateway District will forever alter David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the intersection at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets with a re-imagined football stadium paired with a state-of-the-art conference center and additional mixed-use development opportunities. Construction on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will begin shortly after the current football season.

The remainder of Slawson’s generous gift will establish the Todd Slawson Athletic Fund, which will provide perpetual support for the top priorities of the Athletics department.

“Todd’s ongoing commitment to KU and Kansas Athletics will have an immeasurable impact,” said Goff. “We are all humbled by his generosity and his eagerness to be at the forefront of a project that will forever transform the University of Kansas. The Slawson family’s generosity and Todd’s latest commitment will have far-reaching effects for decades to come.”

In addition to this most recent gift, Slawson has provided nearly $10 million to the university in his lifetime. The Slawson family contributed the lead gift of $16 million for the construction of Slawson Hall, part of the Earth, Energy and Environment Center, to honor their late father, Donald Slawson of Wichita, who was a 1955 graduate of KU and founder of the oil and gas exploration company Todd leads today.

“The Slawson Family name is synonymous with support of many university priorities,” said Girod. “Their multi-generational giving is a testament to their relationship with KU and their desire to create a legacy that will benefit all Jayhawks well into the future.”

Don also served two terms on the Kansas Board of Regents and was President of both the KU Alumni Association and KU Athletics boards. Todd’s grandfather, Charles Slawson, was also a proud Jayhawk. He was the captain and a pitcher on the 1920 Kansas Baseball team. His great grandfather, Marion, graduated with a law degree in 1899.

“I am pleased to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather,” said Todd. “I feel that the new football stadium is important to the university in many ways. My father once said that making a difference is your birthright. I hope my contributions make a difference and kickstart giving by others to complete this project so that Kansas athletics and academics continue to be great for generations to come.”

About Kansas AthleticsKansas Athletics is a not-for-profit corporation that was organized in 1925 to foster the development of intercollegiate athletics in conjunction with the educational activities of the University of Kansas. Kansas Athletics operates the varsity intercollegiate athletic programs (18 men's and women's intercollegiate teams) of the University of Kansas in facilities owned by the State of Kansas. A major comprehensive research and teaching university with an enrollment of approximately 27,000, the University provides outstanding excellence in education and research. Kansas Athletics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

About KU EndowmentKU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696624349951.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;R. Todd Slawson, a 1984 graduate of the School of Engineering, Trustee of the KU Endowment Association and a fourth-generation Jayhawk, recently continued his family’s legacy of support to KU with a gift commitment of $25 million to KU Endowment, in support of Kansas Athletics.In the spirit of maintaining momentum for Kansas Athletics, Slawson has ensured that a significant portion of his gift will support the Gateway District.&nbsp; First announced last October by Chancellor Douglas Girod and Director of Athletics Travis Goff, the Gateway District will forever alter David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the intersection at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets with a re-imagined football stadium paired with a state-of-the-art conference center and additional mixed-use development opportunities. Construction on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will begin shortly after the current football season.The remainder of Slawson’s generous gift will establish the Todd Slawson Athletic Fund, which will provide perpetual support for the top priorities of the Athletics department.“Todd’s ongoing commitment to KU and Kansas Athletics will have an immeasurable impact,” said Goff. “We are all humbled by his generosity and his eagerness to be at the forefront of a project that will forever transform the University of Kansas. The Slawson family’s generosity and Todd’s latest commitment will have far-reaching effects for decades to come.”In addition to this most recent gift, Slawson has provided nearly $10 million to the university in his lifetime. The Slawson family contributed the lead gift of $16 million for the construction of Slawson Hall, part of the Earth, Energy and Environment Center, to honor their late father, Donald Slawson of Wichita, who was a 1955 graduate of KU and founder of the oil and gas exploration company Todd leads today.“The Slawson Family name is synonymous with support of many university priorities,” said Girod. “Their multi-generational giving is a testament to their relationship with KU and their desire to create a legacy that will benefit all Jayhawks well into the future.”Don also served two terms on the Kansas Board of Regents and was President of both the KU Alumni Association and KU Athletics boards. Todd’s grandfather, Charles Slawson, was also a proud Jayhawk. He was the captain and a pitcher on the 1920 Kansas Baseball team. His great grandfather, Marion, graduated with a law degree in 1899.“I am pleased to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather,” said Todd. “I feel that the new football stadium is important to the university in many ways. My father once said that making a difference is your birthright. I hope my contributions make a difference and kickstart giving by others to complete this project so that Kansas athletics and academics continue to be great for generations to come.”About Kansas AthleticsKansas Athletics is a not-for-profit corporation that was organized in 1925 to foster the development of intercollegiate athletics in conjunction with the educational activities of the University of Kansas. Kansas Athletics operates the varsity intercollegiate athletic programs (18 men's and women's intercollegiate teams) of the University of Kansas in facilities owned by the State of Kansas. A major comprehensive research and teaching university with an enrollment of approximately 27,000, the University provides outstanding excellence in education and research. Kansas Athletics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.About KU EndowmentKU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.&nbsp;

$25 Million Gift Designated for Kansas Athletics

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coach Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Sacred Heart Knights VS Sedgwick Cardinals Football at Valley Center Stadium,&nbsp;800 N. Meridian Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147 6 p.m. (<a href="http://www.salinapost.com">Watch and Listen on Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Dickinson State Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 2 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Bellevue Lady Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 5 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post</a>)

Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>

Southeast of Saline Trojans VS Chaparral Road Runners Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, Ks 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>

Chapman Irish VS Rock Creek Mustangs Football at Rock Creek Jr/Sr High School, St George, Ks  7 p.m. (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)

KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

MRN Nascar Live 8am. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 12pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Tabor College Blue Jays at Hillsboro, Ks 1pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Dickinson State Lady Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 1 p.m. <a href="http://910KINA.com">(Listen live on Prime FM 94.5 and Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Bellevue Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen live on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas City Chiefs VS Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Co  2pm.  (Listen on KINA and 99.9FM KSKG)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625885773462.jpeg" alt="KINA logo sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KINA logo sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Monday</h2>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coach Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)<h2>Thursday (UPDATED 10/26/2023)</h2>Sacred Heart Knights VS Sedgwick Cardinals Football at Valley Center Stadium,&nbsp;800 N. Meridian Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147 6 p.m. (<a href="http://www.salinapost.com">Watch and Listen on Salina Post)</a><h2>Friday</h2>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Dickinson State Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 2 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Bellevue Lady Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 5 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post</a>)Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>Southeast of Saline Trojans VS Chaparral Road Runners Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, Ks 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>Chapman Irish VS Rock Creek Mustangs Football at Rock Creek Jr/Sr High School, St George, Ks 7 p.m. (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a><h2>Saturday </h2>MRN Nascar Live 8am. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 12pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Tabor College Blue Jays at Hillsboro, Ks 1pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Dickinson State Lady Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 1 p.m. <a href="http://910KINA.com">(Listen live on Prime FM 94.5 and Salina Post)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Bellevue Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen live on KINA and 910kina.com)</a><h2>Sunday</h2>PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas City Chiefs VS Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Co 2pm. (Listen on KINA and 99.9FM KSKG)

UPDATED: 910KINA Weekly Sports Schedule

The Ell-Saline Cardinals (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Quinter Bulldogs (5-3).

“I think our team is in a good place right now," Cardinal head coach Joe Roche said. "We know we deserve to be in this position but we know we have to beat really good teams to reach our goal. Quinter is one of those really good teams, and we will need to execute our offense with passion and play rugged and disciplined defense."

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either Meade (7-1) or Pratt-Skyline (4-4).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Ell-Saline High School in Brookville.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ell-Saline Cardinals (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Quinter Bulldogs (5-3).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“I think our team is in a good place right now," Cardinal head coach Joe Roche said. "We know we deserve to be in this position but we know we have to beat really good teams to reach our goal. Quinter is one of those really good teams, and we will need to execute our offense with passion and play rugged and disciplined defense."The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either Meade (7-1) or Pratt-Skyline (4-4).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Ell-Saline High School in Brookville.

Snapshot Preview: Ell-Saline vs. Quinter

The Bennington Bulldogs (3-5), will open postseason play on the road this Thursday when they travel to Hoxie (7-1).

“We have a great amount of gratitude for where we are compared to last year,” Bulldog head coach Bryan Shamburg said. "At this point last year our season was over at 0-8. This year we're 3-5, and while that's far from perfect, we have a chance to extend our season with a win over Hoxie."

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either LaCrosse (5-3) or Sublette (5-3).

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Thursday at Hoxie High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Bennington Bulldogs (3-5), will open postseason play on the road this Thursday when they travel to Hoxie (7-1).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“We have a great amount of gratitude for where we are compared to last year,” Bulldog head coach Bryan Shamburg said. "At this point last year our season was over at 0-8. This year we're 3-5, and while that's far from perfect, we have a chance to extend our season with a win over Hoxie."The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either LaCrosse (5-3) or Sublette (5-3).Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Thursday at Hoxie High School.

Snapshot Preview: Bennington at Hoxie

Due to inclement weather and field conditions, a number of area playoff games have seen a change in kickoff time or venue, we will continue to update those changes here as we receive new information.

Sacred Heart vs. Sedgwick Game moved to Valley Center HS, Thursday at 6:00

Southeast of Saline vs. Chaparral Game moved to Bissell Field (at KWU), Friday at 7:00

Due to inclement weather and field conditions, a number of area playoff games have seen a change in kickoff time or venue, we will continue to update those changes here as we receive new information.Sacred Heart vs. Sedgwick Game moved to Valley Center HS, Thursday at 6:00Southeast of Saline vs. Chaparral Game moved to Bissell Field (at KWU), Friday at 7:00

Area HS Football Weather Changes

The Sacred Heart Knights (2-6) will kick off the early slate of area playoff games this Thursday at 6:00 when they travel to Valley Center to take on the Sedgwick Cardinals (7-1).

The winner of this game will advance to the round of 16 next week to play either Valley Heights (6-2), or Whitewater-Remington (2-6).

Sacred Heart enters this contest fresh off a convincing 51-20 beatdown of Republic County, which has put some pep back in the step of the Knights.

“After last week all of these boys believe in themselves and now they see how much of a threat they are,” Knights head coach Norm Jennings said. “These boys want to be the most dangerous 4-seed to ever go out there and do it and now it’s time to go be that.”

While Sacred Heart has faced stiff competition this season, Sedgwick will present a daunting task, as the 5th-ranked Cardinals have ransacked a majority of their opponents this season, winning five of their games by two scores or more.

“Sedgwick is consistently Sedgwick,” Jennings said. “They have a good 2-dimensional offense but they have a lot of athletic kids and they can be deadly in that passing game.”

That passing attack has been led by junior quarterback Corey Crumrine, who has put up video game-like numbers in 2023, completing 65% of his passes for 2,309 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions.&nbsp;

Fortunately for the Knights, they’ve faced a team like this before, and will lean on the experience they gained in week one of this season.

“Wichita Trinity had one of the best quarterback-receiver tandems in the state and we’ll see another phenomenal passer tonight,” he said. “We’ve seen an air raid team like this before and we know how to cover it. That doesn’t minimize the threat but our guys won’t be shell-shocked.”

While the Sedgwick offense has looked like an unstoppable juggernaut, their defense has left opportunities on the table, surrendering 20 or more in a majority of their games.

“Sedgwick has had some difficulties stopping the run,” Jennings said. “We saw that on film in their one loss to Sterling which is another team that runs flexbone. A lot of the teams that have had success against them have had success on the ground and we will make them show us that they have stepped up their ability to stop the run.”

Due to field conditions, Thursday’s game between the Knights and Cardinals has been moved to Valley Center High School, but will still kick off at 6:00.

As always, the game can be streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk1ELROVGCM">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sacred Heart Knights (2-6) will kick off the early slate of area playoff games this Thursday at 6:00 when they travel to Valley Center to take on the Sedgwick Cardinals (7-1).The winner of this game will advance to the round of 16 next week to play either Valley Heights (6-2), or Whitewater-Remington (2-6).Sacred Heart enters this contest fresh off a convincing 51-20 beatdown of Republic County, which has put some pep back in the step of the Knights.“After last week all of these boys believe in themselves and now they see how much of a threat they are,” Knights head coach Norm Jennings said. “These boys want to be the most dangerous 4-seed to ever go out there and do it and now it’s time to go be that.”While Sacred Heart has faced stiff competition this season, Sedgwick will present a daunting task, as the 5th-ranked Cardinals have ransacked a majority of their opponents this season, winning five of their games by two scores or more.“Sedgwick is consistently Sedgwick,” Jennings said. “They have a good 2-dimensional offense but they have a lot of athletic kids and they can be deadly in that passing game.”That passing attack has been led by junior quarterback Corey Crumrine, who has put up video game-like numbers in 2023, completing 65% of his passes for 2,309 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions.&nbsp;Fortunately for the Knights, they’ve faced a team like this before, and will lean on the experience they gained in week one of this season.“Wichita Trinity had one of the best quarterback-receiver tandems in the state and we’ll see another phenomenal passer tonight,” he said. “We’ve seen an air raid team like this before and we know how to cover it. That doesn’t minimize the threat but our guys won’t be shell-shocked.”While the Sedgwick offense has looked like an unstoppable juggernaut, their defense has left opportunities on the table, surrendering 20 or more in a majority of their games.“Sedgwick has had some difficulties stopping the run,” Jennings said. “We saw that on film in their one loss to Sterling which is another team that runs flexbone. A lot of the teams that have had success against them have had success on the ground and we will make them show us that they have stepped up their ability to stop the run.”Due to field conditions, Thursday’s game between the Knights and Cardinals has been moved to Valley Center High School, but will still kick off at 6:00.As always, the game can be streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk1ELROVGCM">HERE</a>.

Knights Open Postseason Play in Search of Upset Over Sedgwick

Kansas State senior offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;earned one of the most prestigious honors in major college football on Wednesday as he was selected as a member of the 2023 National Football Foundation (NFF) National Scholar-Athlete Class and is a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy.

Beebe is one of 16 finalists – including one of nine FBS players – that were trimmed from a record-number 201 semifinalists. The 16 finalists are now in contention for the 2023 William V. Campbell Trophy, college football’s premier scholar-athlete award that annually recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.

A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe is the ninth Wildcat all-time to be named an NFF National Scholar-Athlete and finalist for the Campbell Trophy, including the sixth in the last 13 years and the second straight. Previously honored during the 13-year stretch are Tysyn Hartman (2011), Tyler Lockett (2014), Dalton Risner (2018), Adam Holtorf (2019) and Adrian Martinez (2022).

With the inclusion by Beebe, K-State has the most NFF National Scholar-Athletes among all FBS programs since 2011, one more than second-place Duke.

By being named an NFF Scholar-Athlete, Beebe will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship and will travel to Bellagio Resort &amp; Casino in Las Vegas for the 65th&nbsp;NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 5, where his accomplishments will be highlighted in front of one of the most powerful audiences in all of sports.

“We are extremely proud to announce the finalists for this year’s Campbell Trophy,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, whose sons Peyton (Campbell Trophy recipient) and Eli were NFF National Scholar-Athletes in 1997 and 2003, respectively. “These young men have an unrelenting commitment to excellence in all aspects of their lives, and they represent all that is right in college football. As strong leaders in the vein of the trophy’s namesake Bill Campbell, they all serve as living examples that the ‘Future For Football’ is bright. We are excited to honor their hard work and outstanding leadership with postgraduate scholarships.”

A 2023 K-State graduate with a degree in social studies education, Beebe held a 3.84 GPA and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. He is a 2022 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honoree and a three-time First Team Academic All-Big 12 performer.

A catalyst in the middle of the offensive line, Beebe has helped the Wildcats rush for 232.7 yards per game and 474.7 total yards per game to rank third and 13th&nbsp;in the nation, respectively. K-State is also averaging 36.9 points per game to also rank 13th&nbsp;in the country. Its 6.49 offensive yards per play and 5.62 rushing yards per carry are also the current top marks in school history.

Helping the K-State offensive line be named to the Joe Moore Award Midseason Honor Roll, Beebe was named a Midseason All-American by the Associated Press, CBS Sports, ESPN, Sporting News and&nbsp;The Athletic. Following K-State’s 41-3 victory over TCU in which the Wildcats produced 587 yards of total offense – the sixth most in program history – Beebe was honored as the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week.

Kansas State hosts Houston on Homecoming this Saturday in an 11 a.m., contest inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game will be shown nationally on ESPN2.

Standing-room only tickets are available for the game against the Cougars, as those can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner. Fraudulent tickets are often seen on gamedays, and K-State Athletics can only verify secondary market tickets and assist fans with issues on gamedays with tickets that are purchased directly from SeatGeek.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698252191191.png" alt="Cooper Beebe William V. Campbell Trophy Finalist" />
 <figcaption>Cooper Beebe William V. Campbell Trophy Finalist</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State senior offensive lineman&nbsp;Cooper Beebe&nbsp;earned one of the most prestigious honors in major college football on Wednesday as he was selected as a member of the 2023 National Football Foundation (NFF) National Scholar-Athlete Class and is a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy.Beebe is one of 16 finalists – including one of nine FBS players – that were trimmed from a record-number 201 semifinalists. The 16 finalists are now in contention for the 2023 William V. Campbell Trophy, college football’s premier scholar-athlete award that annually recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.A product of Kansas City, Kansas, Beebe is the ninth Wildcat all-time to be named an NFF National Scholar-Athlete and finalist for the Campbell Trophy, including the sixth in the last 13 years and the second straight. Previously honored during the 13-year stretch are Tysyn Hartman (2011), Tyler Lockett (2014), Dalton Risner (2018), Adam Holtorf (2019) and Adrian Martinez (2022).With the inclusion by Beebe, K-State has the most NFF National Scholar-Athletes among all FBS programs since 2011, one more than second-place Duke.By being named an NFF Scholar-Athlete, Beebe will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship and will travel to Bellagio Resort &amp; Casino in Las Vegas for the 65th&nbsp;NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 5, where his accomplishments will be highlighted in front of one of the most powerful audiences in all of sports.“We are extremely proud to announce the finalists for this year’s Campbell Trophy,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, whose sons Peyton (Campbell Trophy recipient) and Eli were NFF National Scholar-Athletes in 1997 and 2003, respectively. “These young men have an unrelenting commitment to excellence in all aspects of their lives, and they represent all that is right in college football. As strong leaders in the vein of the trophy’s namesake Bill Campbell, they all serve as living examples that the ‘Future For Football’ is bright. We are excited to honor their hard work and outstanding leadership with postgraduate scholarships.”A 2023 K-State graduate with a degree in social studies education, Beebe held a 3.84 GPA and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. He is a 2022 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honoree and a three-time First Team Academic All-Big 12 performer.A catalyst in the middle of the offensive line, Beebe has helped the Wildcats rush for 232.7 yards per game and 474.7 total yards per game to rank third and 13th&nbsp;in the nation, respectively. K-State is also averaging 36.9 points per game to also rank 13th&nbsp;in the country. Its 6.49 offensive yards per play and 5.62 rushing yards per carry are also the current top marks in school history.Helping the K-State offensive line be named to the Joe Moore Award Midseason Honor Roll, Beebe was named a Midseason All-American by the Associated Press, CBS Sports, ESPN, Sporting News and&nbsp;The Athletic. Following K-State’s 41-3 victory over TCU in which the Wildcats produced 587 yards of total offense – the sixth most in program history – Beebe was honored as the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week.Kansas State hosts Houston on Homecoming this Saturday in an 11 a.m., contest inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The game will be shown nationally on ESPN2.Standing-room only tickets are available for the game against the Cougars, as those can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>. Fans looking to purchase tickets through the secondary market are encouraged to do so through SeatGeek, K-State’s official secondary ticket partner. Fraudulent tickets are often seen on gamedays, and K-State Athletics can only verify secondary market tickets and assist fans with issues on gamedays with tickets that are purchased directly from SeatGeek.

K-State’s Beebe Named Finalist for Prestigious Campbell Trophy

In 2022, the Ell-Saline Cardinals made the decision to drop from Class 1A to 8-Man Division-I.

The choice was difficult to be sure, but one Ell-Saline believed was necessary to provide the best student-athlete experience possible for it’s players.

“When you go back and look at those schedules, our guys were battling but we were so worn down playing an 11-man schedule with a 22-man roster,” Cardinals head coach Joe Roche said. “We made the decision that helped protect the kids physically and mentally, and we really feel that we’re in the right spot now.”

While the fundamentals of the game are the same in theory, 8-man football differs drastically from its 11-man counterpart in many ways.

On most offensive downs, the quarterback is completely unaccounted for, with six fewer players on the field, athletes are given more space to make big plays, and with less help over the top, each player's defensive assignment becomes all the more important.

The adjustment period led to some interesting games for Ell-Saline, but the Cardinals were able to weather the storm, and at the end of that 2022 campaign, many saw the season as a success, as the Cardinals finished 6-3, even hosting a playoff game in week nine.

In their three losses, Ell-Saline was humiliated, falling at the hands of Little River, Clifton-Clyde, and Hoxie by a combined score of 140-26.

“We learned really quick that no matter how many people you have on the field football is football,” Roche said. “When we got beat it wasn’t because we ran into a more athletic team in the passing game, we got beat up and bullied inside in those games.”

Rather than seeking out a crafty solution to this problem, Ell-Saline chose to close the gap to those 8-Man blue bloods in the weight room, where an all-new Cardinal team was born.

“We knew after our first year that we needed to get stronger,” he said. “I can’t understate how much experience has brought us to where we are right now and now, and with our size, we’re really able to move the ball with authority.”

Armed with the knowledge of the season prior and newfound strength from an offseason in the weight room, Ell-Saline looked to begin their season with a bang, but were decimated 32-6 at the hands of a Moundridge team they had defeated the year before.

“We were really disappointed in the way we played week one,” Roche said. “As a coach you can yell at those guys if you want, but to me that’s the easy way out. We chose instead to build our guys back up. We had to help them realize how good we could be if we eliminated mistakes and what we see today is a mindset of Moundridge never happening again.”

In the seven weeks that followed, Ell-Saline not only tightened up their miscues, they dominated the competition, outscoring the rest of their opponents 321-104.

That stretch included a hard-fought 24-14 win over Little River that gave the Cardinals the confidence needed to decimate Clifton-Clyde 40-26 just two weeks later.&nbsp;

“Clifton-Clyde was absolutely a revenge game for us,” Roche said. “They beat us 50-0 and the kids we put on the field this year were the same kids that got their tails whipped in that game. Part of our summer may have been lifting weights and thinking about Clifton-Clyde, and everyone needs that kind of rival that makes you aspire to be better than yourself.”

Before the year began, the Cardinal's mission was simply to close the gap to those top teams, but with definitive wins in hand over both, there was no more denying it, Ell-Saline had built a contender.

While the road ahead will be a difficult one wrought with more challenges for sure, the ceiling for the Cardinals remains higher than anyone watching this second-year 8-man program could have imagined, and with the wind of a seven-game win streak in their sails, confidence in Brookville is at an all-time high.

“This team truly believes that we can compete with the best teams in the state throughout these playoffs,” Roche said. “We know we can outhit teams that are just as big as us defensively, and that we can cause problems for people through the air and on the ground offensively. We think we can adapt to our opponents and we like our chances.”

The Cardinals will begin their playoff run in Brookville this Friday when they play host to the 5-3 Quinter Bulldogs.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2022, the Ell-Saline Cardinals made the decision to drop from Class 1A to 8-Man Division-I.The choice was difficult to be sure, but one Ell-Saline believed was necessary to provide the best student-athlete experience possible for it’s players.“When you go back and look at those schedules, our guys were battling but we were so worn down playing an 11-man schedule with a 22-man roster,” Cardinals head coach Joe Roche said. “We made the decision that helped protect the kids physically and mentally, and we really feel that we’re in the right spot now.”While the fundamentals of the game are the same in theory, 8-man football differs drastically from its 11-man counterpart in many ways.On most offensive downs, the quarterback is completely unaccounted for, with six fewer players on the field, athletes are given more space to make big plays, and with less help over the top, each player's defensive assignment becomes all the more important.The adjustment period led to some interesting games for Ell-Saline, but the Cardinals were able to weather the storm, and at the end of that 2022 campaign, many saw the season as a success, as the Cardinals finished 6-3, even hosting a playoff game in week nine.There was just one problem.In their three losses, Ell-Saline was humiliated, falling at the hands of Little River, Clifton-Clyde, and Hoxie by a combined score of 140-26.“We learned really quick that no matter how many people you have on the field football is football,” Roche said. “When we got beat it wasn’t because we ran into a more athletic team in the passing game, we got beat up and bullied inside in those games.”Rather than seeking out a crafty solution to this problem, Ell-Saline chose to close the gap to those 8-Man blue bloods in the weight room, where an all-new Cardinal team was born.“We knew after our first year that we needed to get stronger,” he said. “I can’t understate how much experience has brought us to where we are right now and now, and with our size, we’re really able to move the ball with authority.”Armed with the knowledge of the season prior and newfound strength from an offseason in the weight room, Ell-Saline looked to begin their season with a bang, but were decimated 32-6 at the hands of a Moundridge team they had defeated the year before.“We were really disappointed in the way we played week one,” Roche said. “As a coach you can yell at those guys if you want, but to me that’s the easy way out. We chose instead to build our guys back up. We had to help them realize how good we could be if we eliminated mistakes and what we see today is a mindset of Moundridge never happening again.”In the seven weeks that followed, Ell-Saline not only tightened up their miscues, they dominated the competition, outscoring the rest of their opponents 321-104.That stretch included a hard-fought 24-14 win over Little River that gave the Cardinals the confidence needed to decimate Clifton-Clyde 40-26 just two weeks later.&nbsp;“Clifton-Clyde was absolutely a revenge game for us,” Roche said. “They beat us 50-0 and the kids we put on the field this year were the same kids that got their tails whipped in that game. Part of our summer may have been lifting weights and thinking about Clifton-Clyde, and everyone needs that kind of rival that makes you aspire to be better than yourself.”Before the year began, the Cardinal's mission was simply to close the gap to those top teams, but with definitive wins in hand over both, there was no more denying it, Ell-Saline had built a contender.While the road ahead will be a difficult one wrought with more challenges for sure, the ceiling for the Cardinals remains higher than anyone watching this second-year 8-man program could have imagined, and with the wind of a seven-game win streak in their sails, confidence in Brookville is at an all-time high.“This team truly believes that we can compete with the best teams in the state throughout these playoffs,” Roche said. “We know we can outhit teams that are just as big as us defensively, and that we can cause problems for people through the air and on the ground offensively. We think we can adapt to our opponents and we like our chances.”The Cardinals will begin their playoff run in Brookville this Friday when they play host to the 5-3 Quinter Bulldogs.

Ell-Saline Looking Like the Real Deal Just Two Years Into 8-Man Journey

The Southeast of Saline cross-country dynasty began the championship portion of their campaign with a bang on Saturday, breezing past the competition to earn two tickets to this year's state meet.

For the Lady Trojans, their victory came with 41 points, doubling up the next closest team from West Franklin (84), and securing three places inside the top ten.

The victory for the Trojans was even more dominant, as Southeast swept the whole top four and five of the top ten, finishing with an unreal 19 points, more than 100 clear of the next closest competition.

Final results from this year's regional can be found below.

Girls Team Results 1. SE of Saline- 41 2. W. Franklin- 84 3. Osage City- 102 4. Prairie View- 103 5. Olathe Heritage- 117 6. Smoky Valley- 120 7. Halstead- 143 8. Burlington- 197 9. Santa Fe Trail- 209 SES Girls Individual Results 7 Anna Jackson (20:43.84) 8 Piper Brown (20:44.35) 9 Abby Commerford (20:47.62) 11 Regan Duran (20:55.88) 16 Cali Augustine (21:20.62)

Boys Team Results 1. SE of Saline- 19 2. W. Franklin- 122 3. Santa Fe Trail- 126 4. Smoky Valley- 159 5. Anderson Co- 161 6. Hesston- 173 7. Osage City- 211 8. Council Grove- 221 9. Haven- 243 10. Iola- 246 11. Wellsville- 249 12. Osawatomie- 250 13. Halstead- 269 14. Prairie View- 372 15. Burlington- 376

SES Boys Individual Results 1. Brayden Walker (16:30.60) 2. Levi Allen (16:43.03) 3. Cayden Walker (16:44.53) 4. Jacob Bircher (16:50.46) 9. Ben Grauerholz (17:17.77)

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>The Southeast of Saline cross-country dynasty began the championship portion of their campaign with a bang on Saturday, breezing past the competition to earn two tickets to this year's state meet.For the Lady Trojans, their victory came with 41 points, doubling up the next closest team from West Franklin (84), and securing three places inside the top ten.The victory for the Trojans was even more dominant, as Southeast swept the whole top four and five of the top ten, finishing with an unreal 19 points, more than 100 clear of the next closest competition.Final results from this year's regional can be found below.Girls Team Results 1. SE of Saline- 41 2. W. Franklin- 84 3. Osage City- 102 4. Prairie View- 103 5. Olathe Heritage- 117 6. Smoky Valley- 120 7. Halstead- 143 8. Burlington- 197 9. Santa Fe Trail- 209 SES Girls Individual Results 7 Anna Jackson (20:43.84) 8 Piper Brown (20:44.35) 9 Abby Commerford (20:47.62) 11 Regan Duran (20:55.88) 16 Cali Augustine (21:20.62)Boys Team Results 1. SE of Saline- 19 2. W. Franklin- 122 3. Santa Fe Trail- 126 4. Smoky Valley- 159 5. Anderson Co- 161 6. Hesston- 173 7. Osage City- 211 8. Council Grove- 221 9. Haven- 243 10. Iola- 246 11. Wellsville- 249 12. Osawatomie- 250 13. Halstead- 269 14. Prairie View- 372 15. Burlington- 376SES Boys Individual Results 1. Brayden Walker (16:30.60) 2. Levi Allen (16:43.03) 3. Cayden Walker (16:44.53) 4. Jacob Bircher (16:50.46) 9. Ben Grauerholz (17:17.77)

SES Dominates Cross Country Regional in Clean Sweep

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — This season of the Kansas City Chiefs might someday be remembered for two distinct eras: pre-Taylor and post-Taylor.

Whether coincidence or fate or a function of true love, the Chiefs tight end has been on a tear since his overtures toward pop superstar Taylor Swift resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-kelce-e97f370dc8931de37cc0875dd53cf46d">a newfound relationship</a>. Kelce was out with a hyperextended knee in Week 1, when the Chiefs lost to the Lions, and had four catches for 26 yards in his return against the Jaguars. But in the six games since Swift first watched Kelce play, he's caught 48 passes for 499 yards and four touchdowns.

That includes a 12-catch performance for 179 yards and a score in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chargers-chiefs-kansas-city-los-angeles-nfl-9de04ec31e8987fdb2d0522ae158d8cc">a 31-17 win over the Chargers</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, when Swift was back in an Arrowhead Stadium suite and chest-bumping Brittany Mahomes, wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

In the four games Swift has attended, Kelce has averaged 108 yards receiving. He averaged 46.5 in the two games she did not.

That led Chiefs coach Andy Reid to say: “Taylor can stay around as long as she want.”

He wasn't joking, either. She might be Kelce's good-luck charm.

Or maybe he's just defying logic by getting better with age.

Even though he turned 34 earlier this month, the same age as retired tight end Rob Gronkowski, Kelce continues to make plays that leave everyone wondering just how he did that. Take his game against the Chargers, a division rival that has seen him plenty of times yet was powerless to prevent him from finding open nooks and crannies in their defense.

In one case, Kelce found a yawning chasm and ran 54 yards before he was finally brought down by the Chargers.

“The younger Trav would have scored on that one,” Mahomes said with a smile, “I'll say that.”

He might not have been that open, though. Mahomes said the biggest difference in the 34-year-old Kelce from the one who broke into the league a decade ago is his ability to diagnose what the defense is doing, then quickly find a way to counteract it.

“He's played every single team and every single coverage,” Mahomes said, “and knows every way to make them pay.”

That much is true regardless of whether Swift is in the house.

The Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-chargers-chiefs-nfl-herbert-48b3f6993df37cc4ef89e9f2687e58e2">sacked Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert five times</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, and each came from a different player — and none from Chris Jones, whose streak of eight straight regular-season games with a sack came to an end. That production from across the board is a good sign for the Chiefs' pass rush, which has been relying heavily on their All-Pro defensive tackle for years.

“All of us are versatile, we’re all playing inside or out. Getting us all on the field is huge — every single one of us can rush,” said Mike Danna, who had one of the sacks Sunday. "Keep on stacking the reps and getting better with the guys.”

The Chiefs were penalized six times for 43 yards, but a few of them were particularly painful. One was a questionable block in the back on left guard Joe Thuney well downfield that took away Jerick McKinnon's 48-yard touchdown reception; the Chiefs wound up getting a field goal on the drive instead.

Second-round draft pick Rashee Rice is quickly developing into an impact wide receiver. He had five catches for 60 yards and a score against Los Angeles, and he's had at least four catches in each of his last three games.

“He’s doing a really good job of just doing what he’s supposed to do and making the plays that he’s supposed to make, not trying to be anything that he’s not,” wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling said. “You see a lot of rookies come in and try to do too much and can’t figure out the right thing to do and the wrong thing to do. He’s just been doing his job and it’s been paying off for him. He’s a quiet kid who listens to what he’s told to do. He always wants to learn. He’s always taking notes, and it shows.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698142671796.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, center left, and singer Taylor Swift leave Arrowhead stadium after an NFL football game between the Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, center left, and singer Taylor Swift leave Arrowhead stadium after an NFL football game between the Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — This season of the Kansas City Chiefs might someday be remembered for two distinct eras: pre-Taylor and post-Taylor.Travis Kelce's season certainly will be.Whether coincidence or fate or a function of true love, the Chiefs tight end has been on a tear since his overtures toward pop superstar Taylor Swift resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-kelce-e97f370dc8931de37cc0875dd53cf46d">a newfound relationship</a>. Kelce was out with a hyperextended knee in Week 1, when the Chiefs lost to the Lions, and had four catches for 26 yards in his return against the Jaguars. But in the six games since Swift first watched Kelce play, he's caught 48 passes for 499 yards and four touchdowns.That includes a 12-catch performance for 179 yards and a score in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chargers-chiefs-kansas-city-los-angeles-nfl-9de04ec31e8987fdb2d0522ae158d8cc">a 31-17 win over the Chargers</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, when Swift was back in an Arrowhead Stadium suite and chest-bumping Brittany Mahomes, wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.In the four games Swift has attended, Kelce has averaged 108 yards receiving. He averaged 46.5 in the two games she did not.That led Chiefs coach Andy Reid to say: “Taylor can stay around as long as she want.”He wasn't joking, either. She might be Kelce's good-luck charm.Or maybe he's just defying logic by getting better with age.Even though he turned 34 earlier this month, the same age as retired tight end Rob Gronkowski, Kelce continues to make plays that leave everyone wondering just how he did that. Take his game against the Chargers, a division rival that has seen him plenty of times yet was powerless to prevent him from finding open nooks and crannies in their defense.In one case, Kelce found a yawning chasm and ran 54 yards before he was finally brought down by the Chargers.“The younger Trav would have scored on that one,” Mahomes said with a smile, “I'll say that.”He might not have been that open, though. Mahomes said the biggest difference in the 34-year-old Kelce from the one who broke into the league a decade ago is his ability to diagnose what the defense is doing, then quickly find a way to counteract it.“He's played every single team and every single coverage,” Mahomes said, “and knows every way to make them pay.”That much is true regardless of whether Swift is in the house.WHAT’S WORKINGThe Chiefs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-chargers-chiefs-nfl-herbert-48b3f6993df37cc4ef89e9f2687e58e2">sacked Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert five times</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, and each came from a different player — and none from Chris Jones, whose streak of eight straight regular-season games with a sack came to an end. That production from across the board is a good sign for the Chiefs' pass rush, which has been relying heavily on their All-Pro defensive tackle for years.“All of us are versatile, we’re all playing inside or out. Getting us all on the field is huge — every single one of us can rush,” said Mike Danna, who had one of the sacks Sunday. "Keep on stacking the reps and getting better with the guys.”WHAT NEEDS HELPThe Chiefs were penalized six times for 43 yards, but a few of them were particularly painful. One was a questionable block in the back on left guard Joe Thuney well downfield that took away Jerick McKinnon's 48-yard touchdown reception; the Chiefs wound up getting a field goal on the drive instead.STOCK UPSecond-round draft pick Rashee Rice is quickly developing into an impact wide receiver. He had five catches for 60 yards and a score against Los Angeles, and he's had at least four catches in each of his last three games.“He’s doing a really good job of just doing what he’s supposed to do and making the plays that he’s supposed to make, not trying to be anything that he’s not,” wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling said. “You see a lot of rookies come in and try to do too much and can’t figure out the right thing to do and the wrong thing to do. He’s just been doing his job and it’s been paying off for him. He’s a quiet kid who listens to what he’s told to do. He always wants to learn. He’s always taking notes, and it shows.”STOCK DOWNFormer first-round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire's time in Kansas City is coming to a lackluster end. He had just two carries for five yards against the Chargers and has 32 for 105 yards through seven games in the final season of his rookie contract.INJURIESPlaymaking linebacker Nick Bolton fractured his wrist while tackling the Chargers' Keenan Allen. Bolton was only in his second game back after missing the previous three with an ankle injury.KEY NUMBER29 and 3 — Mahomes has 29 wins and three losses in his career against the AFC West. And with the victory over the Chargers, the Chiefs have a three-game lead in the division just seven weeks into the season.NEXT STEPSThe Chiefs can do more damage in the AFC West race when they visit the Broncos on Sunday. The two will be playing for the second time in three weeks after Kansas City scraped its way to a 19-8 win on Oct. 12 at Arrowhead Stadium.