By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Minneapolis Lions started Friday’s contest against Ellsworth with a bang, but the Bearcats got the last laugh, turning another tight halftime score into a full-on 47-14 rout.

Ellsworth remains undefeated at 3-0 while Minneapolis slides to 1-2.

The Lions took the opening kickoff and wasted no time getting on the board when Owen Just found Brayden Johnson for a 75-yard touchdown.

Ellsworth would respond, but early in the second quarter, Minneapolis was at it again, this time on a one-play Bryson Lonberger 70-yard touchdown run.

That score would give Minneapolis a 14-7 lead, but it would be their last, as Ellsworth rattled off 40 unanswered points down the stretch to dominate the showdown.

Tucker Goss was the star of the show, snapping off twelve different runs of ten or more yards for over 170 total rushing yards on the night.

Those Goss carries included four rushing touchdowns of 35, 10, 5, and 11 yards.

Bearcat QB Carson Jacobs was also instrumental in the win, throwing the first touchdown pass of his career to Jackson Minear and rushing for over 100 yards on the night.

Ellsworth returns home to host Lyons in week four while Minneapolis stays home to entertain Norton.

You can watch the full broadcast of this game below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Minneapolis Lions started Friday’s contest against Ellsworth with a bang, but the Bearcats got the last laugh, turning another tight halftime score into a full-on 47-14 rout.Ellsworth remains undefeated at 3-0 while Minneapolis slides to 1-2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.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 Lions took the opening kickoff and wasted no time getting on the board when Owen Just found Brayden Johnson for a 75-yard touchdown.Ellsworth would respond, but early in the second quarter, Minneapolis was at it again, this time on a one-play Bryson Lonberger 70-yard touchdown run.That score would give Minneapolis a 14-7 lead, but it would be their last, as Ellsworth rattled off 40 unanswered points down the stretch to dominate the showdown.Tucker Goss was the star of the show, snapping off twelve different runs of ten or more yards for over 170 total rushing yards on the night.Those Goss carries included four rushing touchdowns of 35, 10, 5, and 11 yards.Bearcat QB Carson Jacobs was also instrumental in the win, throwing the first touchdown pass of his career to Jackson Minear and rushing for over 100 yards on the night.Ellsworth returns home to host Lyons in week four while Minneapolis stays home to entertain Norton.You can watch the full broadcast of this game below.<figure>
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🏈 Bearcats rattle off 40 unanswered in rout of Minneapolis

By JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post Contributor

Southeast of Saline traveled to Beloit on Friday night for a clash against their NCAA league rival in the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Trojan War, and a rematch of last year’s state semifinal.&nbsp;

That playoff matchup was an instant classic, but this was anything but, as SES routed their rival 50-0.

Southeast set the tone early as their defense held Beloit to just four yards and a three-and-out on Beloit’s first possession.

The Trojan offense then steamrolled their way for 67 yards on 6 plays, and finished the drive with a 23-yard touchdown pass from Gannon Jacobson to Kanyon Douglas.

Defensively, SES dominated this game, holding Beloit to minimal yardage all night.

Offensively, Southeast racked up yards and put points on the board in bunches.

Senior standout Grady Gebhardt scored the next four Trojan touchdowns to take a 36-0 lead at halftime.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jacobson added another touchdown in the third quarter on a 14-yard run, and LaVone Hopkins completed the finale with a 3-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

Gebhardt finished the game with 183 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, plus 149 yards and 3 touchdowns on 7 receptions.

Jacobson completed 14 of 24 passes for 259 yards and 4 touchdowns, with just 1 interception, and ran for another 60 yards and a score on 7 carries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Southeast defense held Beloit to just 123 yards and didn’t allow a single third or fourth down conversion all night.

“I felt like the defensive line controlled that line all night long,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We rotated three or four guys, or five, and I felt that all of them played really well.”

Southeast advances to 3-0 on the season and will host Kingman next week.

Beloit, now 1-2, will return home to entertain Phillipsburg.

By JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post ContributorSoutheast of Saline traveled to Beloit on Friday night for a clash against their NCAA league rival in the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Trojan War, and a rematch of last year’s state semifinal.&nbsp;That playoff matchup was an instant classic, but this was anything but, as SES routed their rival 50-0.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.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>Southeast set the tone early as their defense held Beloit to just four yards and a three-and-out on Beloit’s first possession.The Trojan offense then steamrolled their way for 67 yards on 6 plays, and finished the drive with a 23-yard touchdown pass from Gannon Jacobson to Kanyon Douglas.Defensively, SES dominated this game, holding Beloit to minimal yardage all night.Offensively, Southeast racked up yards and put points on the board in bunches.Senior standout Grady Gebhardt scored the next four Trojan touchdowns to take a 36-0 lead at halftime.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jacobson added another touchdown in the third quarter on a 14-yard run, and LaVone Hopkins completed the finale with a 3-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;Gebhardt finished the game with 183 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, plus 149 yards and 3 touchdowns on 7 receptions.Jacobson completed 14 of 24 passes for 259 yards and 4 touchdowns, with just 1 interception, and ran for another 60 yards and a score on 7 carries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Southeast defense held Beloit to just 123 yards and didn’t allow a single third or fourth down conversion all night.“I felt like the defensive line controlled that line all night long,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We rotated three or four guys, or five, and I felt that all of them played really well.”Southeast advances to 3-0 on the season and will host Kingman next week.Beloit, now 1-2, will return home to entertain Phillipsburg.<figure>
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🏈 Southeast blanks Beloit in Trojan War

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758344891799.png" alt="11-man area scores" />
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🏈 Saline County Scoreboard Week Three

Looking for their first 4-0 start since 2021, the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes head down I-135 once again for a Kansas Conference cross-divisional game against Bethel on Saturday.

KWU has won the last two games and 13 of the previous 14. The Coyotes won 21-6 last season on Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex and won 24-14 at JRI Stadium in 2023. They're 20-3 against Bethel since 2001.

"We have got to get the run game going. I would say it has been a little bit of a struggle. Obviously, we miss (injured running back) <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b700f92a-08d0-4a17-9dc1-451e61b27622?elinkdata=29128">Luke Armstrong</a>, his big-play capabilities. We kind of take that for granted. He might have two negative plays in row then break one for 50 (yards) so we missed that.

"The thing I was the most proud of was we didn't have a single penalty, and I don't think people realize how difficult that is. We talked about being a disciplined football team and doing all those things and I thought that was a perfect example of how far we have come just in that category. That's probably one of the biggest thing.

"I think the (defensive) system keeps it simple where they don't overthink and they're able to go play with their hair on fire. At the end of the day, it's about what gives the defensive side of the ball a chance to go make plays. That is to not have a ton of checks and not be thinking a lot. I think (defensive coordinator David) Leonard and his staff have done a great job by allowing them to play fast so kudos to those guys.

"We're 3-0 and I'm happy for that, that's a big deal and I want to make sure the kids know how proud I was of them. But we're always going to chase to be better. I know that you can coach much harder after a win than you do after a loss and I think these guys are starting to understand I'm never satisfied. I don't mean that in a negative way, but there's so many things that we can get better at each and every day. That's life, that's football.

"They've got a true freshman at quarterback which is a lot but he's a heck of a competitor. I love watching the dude because he has set in there and taken punishment over the weeks. He's been sacked 10 times, and he just keeps getting back up and competing. We've got to put pressure on him and make him make those perfect throws and make those perfect plays. Hopefully we do that enough to where he feels uncomfortable and has to try and get outside the pocket."

"I would say we are playing about maybe 50 percent of what we can do better. You could tell that. There's another gear we can get to; I think you saw that in the first half of the Bethany game and the second half of the Avila game. Those two halves are a glimpse of what we can do, and I think we're going to be very, very good overall.

"The D-line coach at Harding and I were having some disagreements and at the same time coach Middleton was looking to become the head coach here. At that time, I was trying to get my body ready for the transfer portal to see what I could have. Coach Middleton happened to see me working on my craft alone, doing my thing, and he said, 'I want you to come with me to the school I'm going to.' Knowing coach, I said 'heck yeah why not?' Then another person (offensive lineman) Sam Lanza Ruffino came at the same time. He had more looks (from other schools), but he followed coach Middleton because of the kind of guy he is. We love Coach Middleton.

"I started playing in pee wee football, but I never really liked the sport. I was a little fat kid, didn't like running. I was like 'mom, get me out of here' and my dad is like 'no, this is good for you.' And it was. Then I finally had my chance to show my stuff in middle school and that was an eye opener. The physicality to take out your frustrations in a good way, in a productive way, working towards a common goal with different people, working with teammates. That really tickled my fancy and I've just loved it ever since."

Looking for their first 4-0 start since 2021, the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes head down I-135 once again for a Kansas Conference cross-divisional game against Bethel on Saturday.GAME INFORMATION<ul>
 <li>Kickoff: 6 p.m.</li><li>Day: Saturday</li><li>Location: Thresher Stadium, North Newton</li><li>Records: Kansas Wesleyan 3-0; Bethel 0-3</li>
 </ul>LIVE COVERAGE<ul>
 <li>The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network on the Urban Edge Network (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ee3cdf4f-9139-46cd-840a-dc7a4ffbc64e?elinkdata=29128">https://urbanedgenetwork.net/watch/3405</a>). The game will also be available on the KCAC Network at <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/39c78a04-ad89-48ad-a455-6f6216d16467?elinkdata=29128">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>.</li><li>Live Stats will be available at <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/59a9038d-6935-4d1b-9216-d482b07d1159?elinkdata=29128">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a></li><li>Radio coverage will be on KINA starting at 5 p.m. with Tyler Henry and Brooks Garretson. The online radio stream is available at <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/749d12e3-2ab2-42b3-9cb0-edd2ffbb018e?elinkdata=29128">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>.</li>
 </ul>THE SERIESKWU has won the last two games and 13 of the previous 14. The Coyotes won 21-6 last season on Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex and won 24-14 at JRI Stadium in 2023. They're 20-3 against Bethel since 2001.KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Coyotes remained unbeaten with a 30-6 victory over Avila last Saturday at JRI Hospitality Stadium. They led 17-0 at halftime, 24-0 after three quarters and had a 30-0 lead before Avila scored with 8:47 left in the game.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7e1d477f-30e2-444d-946e-769104215259?elinkdata=29128">Henry Austad</a> was magnificent once again completing 23 of 36 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown and ran for two scores on a pair of two-yard runs. On the season Austad has completed 69.6 percent of his passes for 641 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/65fde389-899a-45ef-aa20-28e7f9cac0d7?elinkdata=29128">Will Wilcox</a> caught nine passes for 102 yards against Avila while <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/75192d2f-591b-4d00-8f4a-edfdcd22552b?elinkdata=29128">D'Heaven Domena</a> led the ground attack with 66 yards on 10 carries. Perhaps the most impressive statistic was KWU did not commit a penalty in the game.</li><li>The Coyotes made a pivotal special teams play in the second quarter when <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a46d4cfd-6b5e-4c72-9ad1-973f4339bbfd?elinkdata=29128">Diego Davis</a> blocked a 35-yard field goal attempt. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/9e789842-9bc1-4831-888f-54cf19c78fee?elinkdata=29128">Brennon Allen</a> scooped up the loose ball and dashed 72 yards for a touchdown that gave them a 14-0 lead.</li><li>KWU's defense has been stellar thus far, surrendering just 23 points - 7.7 per contest. Opponents are averaging 228.7 yards per game which ranks 10th in the NAIA. They're 23rd against the rush (187.0) and 22nd in passing yards allowed (166.3).</li><li>The Coyotes limited Bethel to 213 total yards including 46 rushing on 34 attempts (1.4 per carry) in last year's game. They sacked quarterback DJ Ciers three times, intercepted a pass and gave up just two field goals.</li>
 </ul>BETHEL AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Threshers lost to No. 8 Friends 62-0 last Saturday in Wichita. They've been outscored 156-14 through their first three games against Southwestern (61-7), McPherson (33-7) and Friends.</li><li>Opponents are averaging 381.3 yards rushing per game (9.1 per carry) and have scored 19 touchdowns on the ground. Bethel is also allowing 193 passing yards per game.</li><li>Offensively, the Threshers average 52.7 yards rushing and 154.7 passing. They've allowed 10 sacks and committed eight turnovers - five fumbles, three interceptions.</li><li>Freshman quarterback Byron Reese has completed 50.7 percent of his passes for 460 yards, two touchdowns and five interceptions. Josiah Buller has a team-best eight receptions for 113 yards and two TDs; freshman Triston Leblanc is the top rusher with 71 yards on 17 carries.</li><li>Bethel is led by first-year head coach Josh Lawson. He came to North Newton after serving as defensive coordinator at Division III Calvin for two seasons. He also was defensive coordinator at Arkansas Tech, Stephen F. Austin and Southern Arkansas.</li>
 </ul>HEAD COACH MATT MIDDLETON"We have got to get the run game going. I would say it has been a little bit of a struggle. Obviously, we miss (injured running back) <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b700f92a-08d0-4a17-9dc1-451e61b27622?elinkdata=29128">Luke Armstrong</a>, his big-play capabilities. We kind of take that for granted. He might have two negative plays in row then break one for 50 (yards) so we missed that."The thing I was the most proud of was we didn't have a single penalty, and I don't think people realize how difficult that is. We talked about being a disciplined football team and doing all those things and I thought that was a perfect example of how far we have come just in that category. That's probably one of the biggest thing."I think the (defensive) system keeps it simple where they don't overthink and they're able to go play with their hair on fire. At the end of the day, it's about what gives the defensive side of the ball a chance to go make plays. That is to not have a ton of checks and not be thinking a lot. I think (defensive coordinator David) Leonard and his staff have done a great job by allowing them to play fast so kudos to those guys."We're 3-0 and I'm happy for that, that's a big deal and I want to make sure the kids know how proud I was of them. But we're always going to chase to be better. I know that you can coach much harder after a win than you do after a loss and I think these guys are starting to understand I'm never satisfied. I don't mean that in a negative way, but there's so many things that we can get better at each and every day. That's life, that's football."They've got a true freshman at quarterback which is a lot but he's a heck of a competitor. I love watching the dude because he has set in there and taken punishment over the weeks. He's been sacked 10 times, and he just keeps getting back up and competing. We've got to put pressure on him and make him make those perfect throws and make those perfect plays. Hopefully we do that enough to where he feels uncomfortable and has to try and get outside the pocket."DEFENSIVE LINEMAN DIEGO DAVIS"I would say we are playing about maybe 50 percent of what we can do better. You could tell that. There's another gear we can get to; I think you saw that in the first half of the Bethany game and the second half of the Avila game. Those two halves are a glimpse of what we can do, and I think we're going to be very, very good overall."The D-line coach at Harding and I were having some disagreements and at the same time coach Middleton was looking to become the head coach here. At that time, I was trying to get my body ready for the transfer portal to see what I could have. Coach Middleton happened to see me working on my craft alone, doing my thing, and he said, 'I want you to come with me to the school I'm going to.' Knowing coach, I said 'heck yeah why not?' Then another person (offensive lineman) Sam Lanza Ruffino came at the same time. He had more looks (from other schools), but he followed coach Middleton because of the kind of guy he is. We love Coach Middleton."I started playing in pee wee football, but I never really liked the sport. I was a little fat kid, didn't like running. I was like 'mom, get me out of here' and my dad is like 'no, this is good for you.' And it was. Then I finally had my chance to show my stuff in middle school and that was an eye opener. The physicality to take out your frustrations in a good way, in a productive way, working towards a common goal with different people, working with teammates. That really tickled my fancy and I've just loved it ever since."NEXT WEEK

🏈 KWU heads to Bethel on Saturday looking for first 4-0 start since 2021

On Friday afternoon, the Salina Liberty announced in a public press conference that the team would be leaving AF1 to join the National Arena League for 2026.

This ends a two-year tenure for Salina in AF1 (formerly the Arena Football League) that saw the Liberty post a record of 12-7 in regular seasons, with a playoff win in 2024.

“We were proud of our accomplishments in the relaunch of AFL and AF1, competing in the semi-final in 2024 &amp; 2025,” team President Dan Mendicina said in a statement. “We now turn our attention to the 2026 season, where expectations remain the same, to compete for a championship.”

In their new league, the Liberty will have an opportunity to rekindle two old rivalries as they rejoin the Omaha Beef, Sioux City Bandits, and Amarillo Warbirds, all formerly of the Champions Indoor Football League.

According to the NAL website, the Liberty will be the ninth team to join its ranks, but more could be added before the start of the 2025 season.

We take great pride in representing Central Kansas and more importantly, Liberty Nation, the statement continued. “Every Team that comes into our house knows they’d better bring their lunch box and be ready to go to work. In meeting the Teams and great Ownership groups in the NAL, we feel that this is where Salina Liberty needs to post our flag.

On Friday evening, another former CIF squad in the Southwest Kansas Storm, formerly the Dodge City Law, became the next defector to the NAL.

In a statement issued by AF1, commissioner Jerry Kurz praised the Liberty and the Storm, thanking both for their contributions to the rebuild and rebrand.

"We're proud of what the AF1 has already achieved and thank the Salina Liberty and Southwest Kansas Storm for the roles they played in our growth," Kurz said. "We wish them well."

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostOn Friday afternoon, the Salina Liberty announced in a public press conference that the team would be leaving AF1 to join the National Arena League for 2026.This ends a two-year tenure for Salina in AF1 (formerly the Arena Football League) that saw the Liberty post a record of 12-7 in regular seasons, with a playoff win in 2024.“We were proud of our accomplishments in the relaunch of AFL and AF1, competing in the semi-final in 2024 &amp; 2025,” team President Dan Mendicina said in a statement. “We now turn our attention to the 2026 season, where expectations remain the same, to compete for a championship.”In their new league, the Liberty will have an opportunity to rekindle two old rivalries as they rejoin the Omaha Beef, Sioux City Bandits, and Amarillo Warbirds, all formerly of the Champions Indoor Football League.According to the NAL website, the Liberty will be the ninth team to join its ranks, but more could be added before the start of the 2025 season.We take great pride in representing Central Kansas and more importantly, Liberty Nation, the statement continued. “Every Team that comes into our house knows they’d better bring their lunch box and be ready to go to work. In meeting the Teams and great Ownership groups in the NAL, we feel that this is where Salina Liberty needs to post our flag.On Friday evening, another former CIF squad in the Southwest Kansas Storm, formerly the Dodge City Law, became the next defector to the NAL.In a statement issued by AF1, commissioner Jerry Kurz praised the Liberty and the Storm, thanking both for their contributions to the rebuild and rebrand."We're proud of what the AF1 has already achieved and thank the Salina Liberty and Southwest Kansas Storm for the roles they played in our growth," Kurz said. "We wish them well."

🏈 Liberty leave AF1 for National Arena League

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer in Kansas City's seven-run first inning and the Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 20-1 on Friday night.

The Royals sent 10 batters to the plate against Max Scherzer (5-4), who exited after recording just two outs and allowing seven hits in the shortest non-injury start of his career. It was Scherzer’s shortest outing since facing just one batter while pitching for Washington on June 11, 2021, before leaving with an injury.

Following a homer by George Springer in the top of the first inning, the Royals quickly tied it in the bottom of the inning on Carter Jensen’s leadoff double and Bobby Witt Jr.’s RBI single. Witt scored on Vinnie Pasquantino’s double into the left field corner to give Kansas City the lead for good.

After a walk to Maikel Garcia – and Toronto pitching coach Pete Walker’s ejection – Perez connected for his 30th home run. Michael Massey’s two-run homer gave Kansas City a 7-1 lead.

Batting leadoff for the first time, Jensen hit three doubles – two against Scherzer in the first and a two-run double in the third. Jensen became the first Royals player with multiple doubles in the same inning.

Jac Caglianone hit a three-run homer in the seventh as the Royals had 10 runs and 13 hits in 1 1/3 innings against catcher Tyler Heineman. Infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa got the last two outs in the eighth inning.

Pasquantino had four of Kansas City’s franchise-record 27 hits, doubling twice as the Royals had with eight extra-base hits in the first three innings.

Royals starter Michael Lorenzen (6-11) gave up a run and three hits with three walks while striking out four in 7 2/3 innings for his first win since July 6.

Perez’s 30th home run matched Pasquantino for the club lead as the pair became the second Royals teammates to reach the mark, following Steve Balboni and George Brett in 1985.

Springer, celebrating his 36th birthday, hit his 63rd leadoff home run — second-most in major league history — and reached 30 homers for the first time since 2019.

Blue Jays RHP Shane Bieber (3-1, 3.72 ERA) goes against Royals LHP Noah Cameron (8-7, 2.98) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758337684881.png" alt="Photo KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer in Kansas City's seven-run first inning and the Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 20-1 on Friday night.The Royals sent 10 batters to the plate against Max Scherzer (5-4), who exited after recording just two outs and allowing seven hits in the shortest non-injury start of his career. It was Scherzer’s shortest outing since facing just one batter while pitching for Washington on June 11, 2021, before leaving with an injury.Following a homer by George Springer in the top of the first inning, the Royals quickly tied it in the bottom of the inning on Carter Jensen’s leadoff double and Bobby Witt Jr.’s RBI single. Witt scored on Vinnie Pasquantino’s double into the left field corner to give Kansas City the lead for good.After a walk to Maikel Garcia – and Toronto pitching coach Pete Walker’s ejection – Perez connected for his 30th home run. Michael Massey’s two-run homer gave Kansas City a 7-1 lead.Batting leadoff for the first time, Jensen hit three doubles – two against Scherzer in the first and a two-run double in the third. Jensen became the first Royals player with multiple doubles in the same inning.Jac Caglianone hit a three-run homer in the seventh as the Royals had 10 runs and 13 hits in 1 1/3 innings against catcher Tyler Heineman. Infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa got the last two outs in the eighth inning.Pasquantino had four of Kansas City’s franchise-record 27 hits, doubling twice as the Royals had with eight extra-base hits in the first three innings.Royals starter Michael Lorenzen (6-11) gave up a run and three hits with three walks while striking out four in 7 2/3 innings for his first win since July 6.<h2>Key moment</h2>Perez’s 30th home run matched Pasquantino for the club lead as the pair became the second Royals teammates to reach the mark, following Steve Balboni and George Brett in 1985.<h2>Key stat</h2>Springer, celebrating his 36th birthday, hit his 63rd leadoff home run — second-most in major league history — and reached 30 homers for the first time since 2019.<h2>Up next</h2>Blue Jays RHP Shane Bieber (3-1, 3.72 ERA) goes against Royals LHP Noah Cameron (8-7, 2.98) on Saturday.___

⚾️ Royals score 7 in the 1st inning to beat the Blue Jays

The Minneapolis Lions and Ellsworth Bearcats will square off tonight in an all-NCAA matchup on our Salina Post Game of the Week.

Ellsworth has flown out of the gates to a 2-0 record by way of a 49-8 win over Sacred Heart and a 40-16 victory over Republic County.

Minneapolis, meanwhile, fell 60-21 to the defending 2A state champs in Southeast of Saline, but bounced back in a 16-6 win over Lyons last week.

The two teams have split their last six matchups right down the middle, with the Bearcats getting the better of the Lions in Ellsworth last season in a 26-21 squeaker.

For the Lions, everything revolves around quarterback/free safety Owen Just, whose play on both sides of the ball has left a mark in several battles between the two already.

Just has gotten off to an unassuming start in 2025, with just three touchdowns to one interception in two games, but is always one big play away from turning the tables in a game like this.

On the other side of the matchup, Ellsworth will continue to lean on the run game, anchored by Senior Tucker Goss, who currently ranks fifth in the state of Kansas in rushing yards with 377 in his first two games.

The Bearcats are also led by sophomore quarterback Carson Jacobs, who while still settling into the passing game, has already figured things out on the ground with 207 yards and three scores.

Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 at Minneapolis high school. Our pregame coverage will begin at 6:30.

This game is 100% free to stream and will be available live and on-demand at the link below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Minneapolis Lions and Ellsworth Bearcats will square off tonight in an all-NCAA matchup on our Salina Post Game of the Week.Ellsworth has flown out of the gates to a 2-0 record by way of a 49-8 win over Sacred Heart and a 40-16 victory over Republic County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.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>Minneapolis, meanwhile, fell 60-21 to the defending 2A state champs in Southeast of Saline, but bounced back in a 16-6 win over Lyons last week.The two teams have split their last six matchups right down the middle, with the Bearcats getting the better of the Lions in Ellsworth last season in a 26-21 squeaker.For the Lions, everything revolves around quarterback/free safety Owen Just, whose play on both sides of the ball has left a mark in several battles between the two already.Just has gotten off to an unassuming start in 2025, with just three touchdowns to one interception in two games, but is always one big play away from turning the tables in a game like this.On the other side of the matchup, Ellsworth will continue to lean on the run game, anchored by Senior Tucker Goss, who currently ranks fifth in the state of Kansas in rushing yards with 377 in his first two games.The Bearcats are also led by sophomore quarterback Carson Jacobs, who while still settling into the passing game, has already figured things out on the ground with 207 yards and three scores.Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 at Minneapolis high school. Our pregame coverage will begin at 6:30.This game is 100% free to stream and will be available live and on-demand at the link below.<figure>
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🏈 Minneapolis hosts Ellsworth for Salina Post Game of the Week

While Southeast of Saline does hold the state of Kansas’ longest active regular-season winning streak, their most impressive win may have come last week, in a 46-7 thumping of a historically strong 3A opponent in Clay Center.

“I thought our kids did a good job of being patient with what Clay Center does,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “It was 16-0 at halftime but I thought our kids did a great job of taking care of business in the second half.”

This win moves the Trojan title defense to 2-0, and to go 1-0 again this week, they’ll have to tangle with an opponent that almost took their place in the state championship game.

The Trojan War between Southeast and Beloit has produced some instant classics over the years, but none better than a thrilling back-and-forth 2A state semifinal last season that resulted in a narrow 34-30 victory for the purple and white.

“Beloit is always big, physical and well coached,” Gebhardt said. “They’re massive up front and they have some pretty talented kids in a lot of spots. We’ll have to play a good game to go up there and do what we need to do.”

While Southeast returns the lion's share of key players from last year’s squad, Beloit graduated a small army of stars, bringing back just two total starters on both sides of the ball.

That inexperience was on display last week as Concordia, a team that finished 1-8, including a 28-0 loss to Beloit last season, rattled off a landslide of unanswered points, coming back to beat Beloit 27-26.

That loss may have set off alarm bells around Class 2A, but Southeast knows better than to look past a program of Beloit’s caliber and will be eager to maintain their dominance over the rival Trojans tonight.

“We need to make sure we take care of the football tonight,” he said. “They’re a good football team, and we can’t give them free opportunities tonight. They’re doing some things differently and we need to be able to adapt to what they’re doing and get a lot of hats to the football defensively.”

Kickoff in Beloit is scheduled for 7:00, with pregame coverage on KINA beginning at 6:30. This game will also be streamed for free on Salina Post, and available live and on-demand at the link below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostWhile Southeast of Saline does hold the state of Kansas’ longest active regular-season winning streak, their most impressive win may have come last week, in a 46-7 thumping of a historically strong 3A opponent in Clay Center.“I thought our kids did a good job of being patient with what Clay Center does,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “It was 16-0 at halftime but I thought our kids did a great job of taking care of business in the second half.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.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>This win moves the Trojan title defense to 2-0, and to go 1-0 again this week, they’ll have to tangle with an opponent that almost took their place in the state championship game.The Trojan War between Southeast and Beloit has produced some instant classics over the years, but none better than a thrilling back-and-forth 2A state semifinal last season that resulted in a narrow 34-30 victory for the purple and white.“Beloit is always big, physical and well coached,” Gebhardt said. “They’re massive up front and they have some pretty talented kids in a lot of spots. We’ll have to play a good game to go up there and do what we need to do.”While Southeast returns the lion's share of key players from last year’s squad, Beloit graduated a small army of stars, bringing back just two total starters on both sides of the ball.That inexperience was on display last week as Concordia, a team that finished 1-8, including a 28-0 loss to Beloit last season, rattled off a landslide of unanswered points, coming back to beat Beloit 27-26.That loss may have set off alarm bells around Class 2A, but Southeast knows better than to look past a program of Beloit’s caliber and will be eager to maintain their dominance over the rival Trojans tonight.“We need to make sure we take care of the football tonight,” he said. “They’re a good football team, and we can’t give them free opportunities tonight. They’re doing some things differently and we need to be able to adapt to what they’re doing and get a lot of hats to the football defensively.”Kickoff in Beloit is scheduled for 7:00, with pregame coverage on KINA beginning at 6:30. This game will also be streamed for free on Salina Post, and available live and on-demand at the link below.<figure>
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🏈 Southeast looks to maintain dominance over Beloit in Trojan War

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH AND SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR

Q:&nbsp;On the New York Giants special teams unit.

TOUB:&nbsp;“(New York Giants Special Teams Coordinator) Mike (Ghobrial) does a really good job. They fly around. I always tell the guys to check out the field goal block. See how they play on field goal block, that always tells you how hard (a) special teams unit plays. They fly around. They get after you. That’s just one phase, but they’re on everything. They do it all. Right now, in our ranking system they’re in the top 10. They’re a good unit, they’re solid.”

Q:&nbsp;On how the new kickoff rule is going.

TOUB: “Yeah, I thought it would be in the 80th&nbsp;percentile as far as how many returns, and that’s right where it is at. I like it; I love it. I love the fact that every kickoff and every return is important, and it’s good for me, it’s good for us.”

Q:&nbsp;On Matt Araiza’s performance.

TOUB: “He (Matt Araiza) had three punts, and he averaged 54.7 net. I mean that’s pretty darn good. He was banging the ball, but he was hanging them enough to where we can get our coverage down there at the same time. He had three excellent punts, and if we only punt three times and he has three excellent ones like that, I’m good. Great game for him.”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“I don’t have really anything. We’re excited to play the next team. Looking, trying to find our first win (laughs), so we’re working toward all that this week but with that I’ll just open it up.”

Q: What have you seen from Ashton Gillotte as his snap count goes up?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I mean, they’re up for a reason. He’s (Ashton Gillotte) played pretty good football for us. Now, the first game, he got the elbow (injury), and I think he only got nine plays. He would’ve had more there. I just see him continuing to do that (gestures to elevating). I think the guys are getting a lot of confidence in him. I think I mentioned this last week, every time I turn the one-on-ones on against our guys, I think he’s doing a really good job. He’ll keep ticking upward.”

Q: On the high blitz rate last week.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Well I’m hoping that we can do it well all the time. They’re always there. They’re always on the list. It’s whether we get to him (the quarterback) or not. That’s the key, and I’m trying to pick the right situations to do it because they don’t always work, I’d like to think – if they did, then everybody would be running them every down but hopefully, we can get ourselves in situations where we can use those as much as we can. We’ll see what happens this week.”

Q: What challenges do you have with the Giants’ skill players?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Like all these teams that have good (running) backs and skill on the edges, if you let them be two dimensional, everyone knows what I’m talking about right? They (skill players) dictate whether they are going to run, that becomes a tough day. So, hopefully we can get it one dimensional and the only way we can do that is to stop the run or make that a focus. That’ll be the intent and that’s what we’ll hope to do early.”

NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s hit and miss per play. There are some runs where I think we all see that, and the RB’s see it. I think that’s every game. It’s our job as coaches to make sure that they understand where that is at, and then when to hit it is a big part of it. The correction part of any game when you go through it, win, lose or draw you want to make sure we’re teaching the right stuff to them. Then they got to execute it. Just understanding with our RB’s and knowing in our run game we want to really get that going (and) it hasn’t been there yet, but that’s something we want to emphasize.”

Q:&nbsp;How much has the absence of wide receivers affected the team offensively?

NAGY:&nbsp;“Probably one of the first things that – what I love about (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid is what he instills in his players and coaches is we stay away from the excuses of the personnel part of it, or you don’t have this or don’t have that. So, we’re all engraved that way. What’s real is that you go through training camp and go through OTA’s, timing is important. At the same point in time, the next guy up mentality for when there are issues or a suspension or whatever when you don’t have guys, we got to roll. That’s who we have. That’s what I think for us as coaches is how do we put the players in the best position to (do) what they do best to succeed. And you look at the last two games – really three games against three really good – two defenses with the Chargers and the Eagles. It’s not easy, but we’re there and it’s not good enough for us but we know we are close. The next part that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid does and (General Manager Brett) Veach they bring in people that are really good at handling adversity and I think more than anything when you go through obstacles like we’re going through right now trying to figure out what is the identity, how do we put more points up with where we are at right now. It’s easy to do when you have good people (and) some places don’t have that. And what I really like is we have that so that’s what we’re going to do.”

NAGY:&nbsp;“It was spectacular. It just goes to show that it can be anybody at any time that can make a big-time play. I also say this, everyone saw that tackle which he (Josh Simmons) was going with his miles per hour and making a great hit (and) saved a big-time play. But we also – you go back and look, and number five (Hollywood Brown) was going to get him too. You look at Hollywood and what he was doing from that angle, he was going to be next. One thing that we try to do is really make sure that we are holding each other accountable and get together and show that kind of stuff and let them see – not just the bad stuff or what we can do better or what we can call better or execute. But also too, the good stuff of what’s there and what we’re going to get to because we will get there.”

Q:&nbsp;Is there more urgency when you’re 0-2?

JONES:&nbsp;“I think it’s always a sense of urgency in this building. Urgency kind of picks up when you’re not winning. The energy is good. I think you gotta keep the energy high. (It’s) Still (the) first quarter of the season (we) can’t get down on ourselves, we gotta continue to push each other and get the best out of each other (and) tighten up on the details.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like the defense brought more energy out of the gate in Week 2 and anything you want to see from Week 2 into Week 3?

JONES:&nbsp;“Of course. I think it was a step toward progression. And one step a day, that’s what I tell the guys: “One step a day.” We don’t have to take huge strides. If we continue to take one step a day and by the time we get to December we can look back at this moment of adversity and we can learn a lot from it and we can continue to build from it. We’re all in this together, we’re all leaning on each other (and) pushing the best out of each other and we’re taking one step a day. Progress compounds and we continue to take a step a day. We’ll still get better, and we’ll get this thing turned around soon, very soon.”

Q:&nbsp;What did you make of the backend adjusting in Week 2?

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH AND SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATORQ:&nbsp;On the New York Giants special teams unit.TOUB:&nbsp;“(New York Giants Special Teams Coordinator) Mike (Ghobrial) does a really good job. They fly around. I always tell the guys to check out the field goal block. See how they play on field goal block, that always tells you how hard (a) special teams unit plays. They fly around. They get after you. That’s just one phase, but they’re on everything. They do it all. Right now, in our ranking system they’re in the top 10. They’re a good unit, they’re solid.”Q:&nbsp;On how the new kickoff rule is going.TOUB: “Yeah, I thought it would be in the 80th&nbsp;percentile as far as how many returns, and that’s right where it is at. I like it; I love it. I love the fact that every kickoff and every return is important, and it’s good for me, it’s good for us.”Q:&nbsp;On Matt Araiza’s performance.TOUB: “He (Matt Araiza) had three punts, and he averaged 54.7 net. I mean that’s pretty darn good. He was banging the ball, but he was hanging them enough to where we can get our coverage down there at the same time. He had three excellent punts, and if we only punt three times and he has three excellent ones like that, I’m good. Great game for him.”DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLOOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“I don’t have really anything. We’re excited to play the next team. Looking, trying to find our first win (laughs), so we’re working toward all that this week but with that I’ll just open it up.”Q: What have you seen from Ashton Gillotte as his snap count goes up?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I mean, they’re up for a reason. He’s (Ashton Gillotte) played pretty good football for us. Now, the first game, he got the elbow (injury), and I think he only got nine plays. He would’ve had more there. I just see him continuing to do that (gestures to elevating). I think the guys are getting a lot of confidence in him. I think I mentioned this last week, every time I turn the one-on-ones on against our guys, I think he’s doing a really good job. He’ll keep ticking upward.”Q: On the high blitz rate last week.SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Well I’m hoping that we can do it well all the time. They’re always there. They’re always on the list. It’s whether we get to him (the quarterback) or not. That’s the key, and I’m trying to pick the right situations to do it because they don’t always work, I’d like to think – if they did, then everybody would be running them every down but hopefully, we can get ourselves in situations where we can use those as much as we can. We’ll see what happens this week.”Q: What challenges do you have with the Giants’ skill players?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Like all these teams that have good (running) backs and skill on the edges, if you let them be two dimensional, everyone knows what I’m talking about right? They (skill players) dictate whether they are going to run, that becomes a tough day. So, hopefully we can get it one dimensional and the only way we can do that is to stop the run or make that a focus. That’ll be the intent and that’s what we’ll hope to do early.”OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR MATT NAGYQ:&nbsp;On the running game.NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s hit and miss per play. There are some runs where I think we all see that, and the RB’s see it. I think that’s every game. It’s our job as coaches to make sure that they understand where that is at, and then when to hit it is a big part of it. The correction part of any game when you go through it, win, lose or draw you want to make sure we’re teaching the right stuff to them. Then they got to execute it. Just understanding with our RB’s and knowing in our run game we want to really get that going (and) it hasn’t been there yet, but that’s something we want to emphasize.”Q:&nbsp;How much has the absence of wide receivers affected the team offensively?NAGY:&nbsp;“Probably one of the first things that – what I love about (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid is what he instills in his players and coaches is we stay away from the excuses of the personnel part of it, or you don’t have this or don’t have that. So, we’re all engraved that way. What’s real is that you go through training camp and go through OTA’s, timing is important. At the same point in time, the next guy up mentality for when there are issues or a suspension or whatever when you don’t have guys, we got to roll. That’s who we have. That’s what I think for us as coaches is how do we put the players in the best position to (do) what they do best to succeed. And you look at the last two games – really three games against three really good – two defenses with the Chargers and the Eagles. It’s not easy, but we’re there and it’s not good enough for us but we know we are close. The next part that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid does and (General Manager Brett) Veach they bring in people that are really good at handling adversity and I think more than anything when you go through obstacles like we’re going through right now trying to figure out what is the identity, how do we put more points up with where we are at right now. It’s easy to do when you have good people (and) some places don’t have that. And what I really like is we have that so that’s what we’re going to do.”Q:&nbsp;On Josh Simmons tackle.NAGY:&nbsp;“It was spectacular. It just goes to show that it can be anybody at any time that can make a big-time play. I also say this, everyone saw that tackle which he (Josh Simmons) was going with his miles per hour and making a great hit (and) saved a big-time play. But we also – you go back and look, and number five (Hollywood Brown) was going to get him too. You look at Hollywood and what he was doing from that angle, he was going to be next. One thing that we try to do is really make sure that we are holding each other accountable and get together and show that kind of stuff and let them see – not just the bad stuff or what we can do better or what we can call better or execute. But also too, the good stuff of what’s there and what we’re going to get to because we will get there.”Chiefs Player QuotesSeptember 18, 2025<a>DT CHRIS JONES</a>Q:&nbsp;Is there more urgency when you’re 0-2?JONES:&nbsp;“I think it’s always a sense of urgency in this building. Urgency kind of picks up when you’re not winning. The energy is good. I think you gotta keep the energy high. (It’s) Still (the) first quarter of the season (we) can’t get down on ourselves, we gotta continue to push each other and get the best out of each other (and) tighten up on the details.”Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like the defense brought more energy out of the gate in Week 2 and anything you want to see from Week 2 into Week 3?JONES:&nbsp;“Of course. I think it was a step toward progression. And one step a day, that’s what I tell the guys: “One step a day.” We don’t have to take huge strides. If we continue to take one step a day and by the time we get to December we can look back at this moment of adversity and we can learn a lot from it and we can continue to build from it. We’re all in this together, we’re all leaning on each other (and) pushing the best out of each other and we’re taking one step a day. Progress compounds and we continue to take a step a day. We’ll still get better, and we’ll get this thing turned around soon, very soon.”Q:&nbsp;What did you make of the backend adjusting in Week 2?

Chiefs Quotes: 9-18-25

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Castillo pitched six innings of three-hit ball, Jorge Polanco and J.P. Crawford drove in runs, and the Seattle Mariners beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 on Thursday to climb back into a first-place tie with the Houston Astros in the AL West.

The Mariners are headed to Houston for a three-game series beginning Friday night.

Eduard Bazardo and Gabe Speier tossed an inning apiece for Seattle. Andres Muñoz stranded two in the ninth by striking out Adam Frazier on three pitches for his 36th save.

Castillo (10-8) dueled with Kansas City counterpart Stephen Kolek, who allowed two runs — one earned — while pitching into the eighth inning. One run came on Polanco's double and the other after an astute move by manager Dan Wilson in the eighth.

Kolek appeared to have retired the first two batters of the inning when Wilson challenged that second baseman Michael Massey set up on the grass ahead of Polanco’s groundout. The challenge was successful and Polanco was awarded first base, and reliever Daniel Lynch IV eventually gave up Crawford's run-scoring double to make it 2-0.

Castillo and Kolek (5-6) were so stingy that each allowed just a pair of runners over the first four innings, and both times they were on back-to-back hits. The difference was the Royals paired together singles and stranded both runners while the Mariners got Josh Naylor's single and an RBI double by Polanco for a 1-0 lead.

Castillo only allowed one other runner, a single by Royals rookie Carter Jensen in the fifth. Kolek similarly breezed through the Seattle lineup until a two-out walk to Naylor in the seventh; he promptly struck out Polanco to end the inning.

Key moment The Mariners were leading 1-0 when Wilson made a rare but successful challenge. They wound up doubling their lead.

Key stats Castillo has allowed two earned runs total over his last three starts.

Up next The Mariners begin their pivotal series in Houston with RHP Bryan Woo (14-7, 3.02 ERA) on the mound Friday night. Kansas City has RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-11, 4.91) up against Toronto on Friday night in their final home series of the regular season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758232830765.jpeg" alt="Seattle Mariners' Jorge Polanco, left, is caught off base at second by Kansas City Royals second baseman Michael Massey to get the second out of a double play hit into by Dominic Canzone during the second inning of a baseball game, Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Seattle Mariners' Jorge Polanco, left, is caught off base at second by Kansas City Royals second baseman Michael Massey to get the second out of a double play hit into by Dominic Canzone during the second inning of a baseball game, Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Castillo pitched six innings of three-hit ball, Jorge Polanco and J.P. Crawford drove in runs, and the Seattle Mariners beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 on Thursday to climb back into a first-place tie with the Houston Astros in the AL West.The Mariners are headed to Houston for a three-game series beginning Friday night.Eduard Bazardo and Gabe Speier tossed an inning apiece for Seattle. Andres Muñoz stranded two in the ninth by striking out Adam Frazier on three pitches for his 36th save.Castillo (10-8) dueled with Kansas City counterpart Stephen Kolek, who allowed two runs — one earned — while pitching into the eighth inning. One run came on Polanco's double and the other after an astute move by manager Dan Wilson in the eighth.Kolek appeared to have retired the first two batters of the inning when Wilson challenged that second baseman Michael Massey set up on the grass ahead of Polanco’s groundout. The challenge was successful and Polanco was awarded first base, and reliever Daniel Lynch IV eventually gave up Crawford's run-scoring double to make it 2-0.Castillo and Kolek (5-6) were so stingy that each allowed just a pair of runners over the first four innings, and both times they were on back-to-back hits. The difference was the Royals paired together singles and stranded both runners while the Mariners got Josh Naylor's single and an RBI double by Polanco for a 1-0 lead.Castillo only allowed one other runner, a single by Royals rookie Carter Jensen in the fifth. Kolek similarly breezed through the Seattle lineup until a two-out walk to Naylor in the seventh; he promptly struck out Polanco to end the inning.Key moment The Mariners were leading 1-0 when Wilson made a rare but successful challenge. They wound up doubling their lead.Key stats Castillo has allowed two earned runs total over his last three starts.Up next The Mariners begin their pivotal series in Houston with RHP Bryan Woo (14-7, 3.02 ERA) on the mound Friday night. Kansas City has RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-11, 4.91) up against Toronto on Friday night in their final home series of the regular season.

⚾ Mariners' rare challenge helps secure win over Royals, tie Astros for first place in AL West

NORTH NEWTON - The Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer team recorded its third consecutive shutout as the Coyotes opened the KCAC portion of the season with a 2-0 win over the Bethel College Threshers on Wednesday night at Thresher Stadium.

The Coyotes have not allowed a goal in nearly 298 minutes of match time marking back to a 62nd minute goal in the September 3 match against Central Christian.

The first half was controlled by the Coyotes even though no goals were scored by either side. The Coyotes outshot Bethel 5-1 in the first 45 minutes.

Wesleyan got things going in the 52nd minute as Bethel committed a foul inside the penalty area drawing a try from the spot. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2487fa6d-20f6-487f-8860-b7b85e679f8f?elinkdata=29096">Noel Zimbeva</a> took the penalty and converted putting KWU up 1-0.

The Coyotes extended the lead in the 62nd minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a34e6222-77c8-489e-9cd7-d0d986eb5ea9?elinkdata=29096">Brennen Lamont</a> sent one in right in front of goal off a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dc253155-660f-49a7-82ab-e5a7d2d6ba96?elinkdata=29096">Seth Flores</a>.

KWU outshot Bethel 15-4 for the match and 10-3 in the second half. Five shots by ZImbeva led the way for the Coyotes.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/53060a70-acc0-41e0-950b-42d56d01581c?elinkdata=29096">Shae Wirt</a> had two saves in goal while recording the shutout.

NORTH NEWTON - The Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer team recorded its third consecutive shutout as the Coyotes opened the KCAC portion of the season with a 2-0 win over the Bethel College Threshers on Wednesday night at Thresher Stadium.The Coyotes have not allowed a goal in nearly 298 minutes of match time marking back to a 62nd minute goal in the September 3 match against Central Christian.The first half was controlled by the Coyotes even though no goals were scored by either side. The Coyotes outshot Bethel 5-1 in the first 45 minutes.Wesleyan got things going in the 52nd minute as Bethel committed a foul inside the penalty area drawing a try from the spot. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2487fa6d-20f6-487f-8860-b7b85e679f8f?elinkdata=29096">Noel Zimbeva</a> took the penalty and converted putting KWU up 1-0.The Coyotes extended the lead in the 62nd minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a34e6222-77c8-489e-9cd7-d0d986eb5ea9?elinkdata=29096">Brennen Lamont</a> sent one in right in front of goal off a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dc253155-660f-49a7-82ab-e5a7d2d6ba96?elinkdata=29096">Seth Flores</a>.KWU outshot Bethel 15-4 for the match and 10-3 in the second half. Five shots by ZImbeva led the way for the Coyotes.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/53060a70-acc0-41e0-950b-42d56d01581c?elinkdata=29096">Shae Wirt</a> had two saves in goal while recording the shutout.

⚽️ Coyote MSOC earns third straight shutout in 2-0 win over Bethel to open KCAC play

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer opened the Kansas Conference portion of its schedule on Wednesday with a 2-1 win over the Bethel Threshers at Thresher Stadium.

The Coyotes were able to make two first half goals stand despite giving up early second half score to the Threshers.

Wesleyan's first goal came in the 18th minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3740c9a2-ddfa-44b3-a603-fa6d6eb510b7?elinkdata=29064">Adriyanna Botello</a>. A ball was sent into the box from the left side by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e04b7589-0788-4c24-b2db-ed7c0fe74d33?elinkdata=29064">Emma Gervy</a> after a throw-in. Bethel's keeper attempted to make a save on the play but the ball reportedly got away and to Botello who scored it top shelf.

The Coyotes got another goal just before the half as an initial shot by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79ed603e-74ca-4e4d-98fe-33902f31ef60?elinkdata=29064">Teigan Nielsen</a> hit the post and bounced right to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/338820f2-f1cd-466f-b140-0e812bc6e8fb?elinkdata=29064">Minaya Winchester</a> who one-timed it in for the goal.

Bethel got its goal in the 54th minute by Malayasia Larque.

The Coyotes had several other chances to open up the lead but just missed on several tries.

KWU outshot Bethel 15-9 for the match. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/658c1316-49d2-4121-8454-2a690a6deb28?elinkdata=29064">Isabella Galvan</a> had three saves for the Coyotes.

NORTH NEWTON - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer opened the Kansas Conference portion of its schedule on Wednesday with a 2-1 win over the Bethel Threshers at Thresher Stadium.The Coyotes were able to make two first half goals stand despite giving up early second half score to the Threshers.Wesleyan's first goal came in the 18th minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3740c9a2-ddfa-44b3-a603-fa6d6eb510b7?elinkdata=29064">Adriyanna Botello</a>. A ball was sent into the box from the left side by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e04b7589-0788-4c24-b2db-ed7c0fe74d33?elinkdata=29064">Emma Gervy</a> after a throw-in. Bethel's keeper attempted to make a save on the play but the ball reportedly got away and to Botello who scored it top shelf.The Coyotes got another goal just before the half as an initial shot by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79ed603e-74ca-4e4d-98fe-33902f31ef60?elinkdata=29064">Teigan Nielsen</a> hit the post and bounced right to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/338820f2-f1cd-466f-b140-0e812bc6e8fb?elinkdata=29064">Minaya Winchester</a> who one-timed it in for the goal.Bethel got its goal in the 54th minute by Malayasia Larque.The Coyotes had several other chances to open up the lead but just missed on several tries.KWU outshot Bethel 15-9 for the match. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/658c1316-49d2-4121-8454-2a690a6deb28?elinkdata=29064">Isabella Galvan</a> had three saves for the Coyotes.

⚽️ KWU WSOC opens KCAC play with 2-1 win over Bethel

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Adam Frazier hit a go-ahead, two-run home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat Seattle 7-5 on Wednesday night and snap the Mariners' 10-game winning streak.

Eugenio Suárez snapped an 0-for-32 skid with four hits, two RBIs and two runs for Seattle, which, with Houston's win, dropped a half-game back of the Astros in the AL West.

Lucas Erceg (8-4) earned the win despite giving up the lead on J.P. Crawford's homer in eighth. Carlos Estévez allowed a ninth-inning run, but picked up his MLB-best 40th save.

Seattle's Matt Brash (1-3) gave up four runs and four hits in two-thirds of an inning.

Cole Ragans, making his first start for Kansas City since June 5, allowed two runs on one hit through 3 2/3 innings. He struck out four and walked two. He had been on the IL with a strained left rotator cuff. He threw his first six pitches for strikes and struck out the side on 10 pitches in the first inning.

Seattle's Bryce Miller allowed three runs on eight hits in five innings.

Salvador Perez opened the scoring in the first with a 435-foot, three-run home run to center field.

Suárez answered with a 416-foot, two-run home run in the second inning to cut the deficit to 3-2. Suárez led off the seventh with a double and scored the tying run on a sacrifice fly by Mitch Garver.

Frazier’s home run put the Royals back in front after surrendering the lead in the top of the eighth.

The Royals were 5 of 13 with runners in scoring position. The Mariners were 0 for 4.

The teams compete their three-game series on Thursday. Seattle will start RHP Luis Castillo (9-8, 3.76 ERA) while Kansas City will send RHP Stephen Kolek (5-5, 3.71 ERA) to the mound.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758189408956.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Adam Frazier hit a go-ahead, two-run home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals went on to beat Seattle 7-5 on Wednesday night and snap the Mariners' 10-game winning streak.Eugenio Suárez snapped an 0-for-32 skid with four hits, two RBIs and two runs for Seattle, which, with Houston's win, dropped a half-game back of the Astros in the AL West.Lucas Erceg (8-4) earned the win despite giving up the lead on J.P. Crawford's homer in eighth. Carlos Estévez allowed a ninth-inning run, but picked up his MLB-best 40th save.Seattle's Matt Brash (1-3) gave up four runs and four hits in two-thirds of an inning.Cole Ragans, making his first start for Kansas City since June 5, allowed two runs on one hit through 3 2/3 innings. He struck out four and walked two. He had been on the IL with a strained left rotator cuff. He threw his first six pitches for strikes and struck out the side on 10 pitches in the first inning.Seattle's Bryce Miller allowed three runs on eight hits in five innings.Salvador Perez opened the scoring in the first with a 435-foot, three-run home run to center field.Suárez answered with a 416-foot, two-run home run in the second inning to cut the deficit to 3-2. Suárez led off the seventh with a double and scored the tying run on a sacrifice fly by Mitch Garver.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Frazier’s home run put the Royals back in front after surrendering the lead in the top of the eighth.<h2>Key Stat</h2>The Royals were 5 of 13 with runners in scoring position. The Mariners were 0 for 4.<h2>Up Next</h2>The teams compete their three-game series on Thursday. Seattle will start RHP Luis Castillo (9-8, 3.76 ERA) while Kansas City will send RHP Stephen Kolek (5-5, 3.71 ERA) to the mound.___

⚾️ Royals score 4 in the 8th to snap Seattle's 10-game winning streak

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go, Mike Danna won’t practice today and (Kristian) Fulton won’t practice today. Other than that, we look forward to the challenge of getting ready to play a good Giants football team. You can really see that they have a tremendous defense and a lot of skill on the offensive side. Their quarterback (QB Russel Wilson) is playing well right now. And (Giants Head Coach) Brian (Daboll) does – who you guys are familiar with, Brian does a good job, creative guy offensively, plus he’s got (Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator) Mike Kafka there on top of that, Mike’s a sharp kid. Defensively they have got a good scheme, one that we have played against a couple of different times when (Defensive Coordinator) Shane (Bowen) was at (the) Tennessee (Titans). It’s a good bunch there. Anyways with that, time is yours.”

Q: On Xavier Worthy and Jalen Royals practicing this week.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah. They’ll (Xavier Worthy and Jalen Royals) practice today.”

Q: How is Jalen Royals coming along?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, he’s coming pretty good. We’ll just see how he does here. He’s been out for a while, I’d like to see how he moves around.”

Q: Are there any limitations on Xavier Worthy for practice today?

REID:&nbsp;“No, neither of them (Xavier Worthy or Jalen Royals).”

Q: Travis Kelce said there’s a lot on his plate. Do you think that Travis Kelce might have too much on his plate?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, no listen, I mean Travis (Kelce) made so many of those catches right there. I don’t think it is an age thing or anything, at that point. He’s fine. We try to keep an eye on him the best we can.”

Q: What are you seeing from the pass offense?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, probably the same thing you guys see. I mean it’s – we’re on at times, and we’re not on at times. So, it’ll be the same thing you guys are seeing. We just got to keep working.”

Q: What issues are you seeing on third down?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, we’ve been throwing the ball in those situations. You want to keep them manageable first of all, and then we’ve got to hook up on them when called. We can do a better job as coaches of putting them in a better position. So that’s kind of the basics of it, and what we’ve got to go through to do that.”

Q:&nbsp;On Patrick Mahomes input on game plans and how comfortable he is in different formations, specifically center.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, he’s (Patrick Mahomes) actually grown into liking getting under there (center) and doing that part of it. We’ve worked a little bit more in there this year than we have in the past.”

Q:&nbsp;The script at the beginning of the year hasn’t gone your way, can you put your finger on any reason why it might not be working?

REID:&nbsp;“I’ve got to do a better job there. I can’t stand here and tell you we’re going to try this or that, we are playing somebody here. To answer that question I’d have to give you the plays (laughter).”

Q:&nbsp;How comfortable are you with Patrick Mahomes running?

REID:&nbsp;“I am okay with it. As long as he (Patrick Mahomes) can come back upright, we’re okay. I don’t like him taking big hits, but he’s a competitive kid.”

Q:&nbsp;On the run game with Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt.

REID:&nbsp;“We can do a better job there. We’ll get that thing going better.”

Q:&nbsp;You had Mike Kafka here as an assistant. What makes him capable of calling plays?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, absolutely. I felt like he (Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator Mike Kafka) can do it, (he’s a) smart guy. Had played the position in the league (and) had a good feel for defenses. Had a great grasp for the offense, so no reason he wouldn’t be able to.”

Q:&nbsp;How often do you and Mike Kafka communicate?

REID:&nbsp;“We talk a couple of times during the offseason.”

Q:&nbsp;As fans are we overreacting to the 0-2 start?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, we haven’t won the game. So, I understand, I get it. We keep pushing, and we’ll keep pushing and working forward and seeing what we can do going down the road here.”

Q:&nbsp;Is the start to the season, being 0-2 something you address to the team?

REID:&nbsp;“No, I just try to the fix the problems we might have. And all there is, including myself. That’s what you have time to do. Be real with the guys, I’m not going to not tell them what I think. (Communicate with them, and try to work it out. Get it right.”

Q:&nbsp;On Tom Brady being the co-owner of the Las Vegas Raider and participating in broadcasting.

REID:&nbsp;“I don’t know what he’s (Tom Brady) doing for them, so I can’t answer that. He’s done a good job as an announcer, I think. I don’t know that either because I really don’t listen to it (laughter). I haven’t really gotten into all of that.”

Q:&nbsp;Did you approach the production meeting with Tom Brady any differently?

REID:&nbsp;“No, we’re not telling secrets in the production meetings. So, we’re not giving them the plays and stuff in the production meeting.”

Q:&nbsp;What was your reaction to Josh Simmons against the Eagles?

REID:&nbsp;“I thought that was pretty impressive. I mean a 300-pound man running like that and making the tackle like he (Josh Simmons) did. Sure, we talked about it. That was one of the positives. There’s a lot of things we’ve got to work on but that was one of the positives of the game.”

Q:&nbsp;Patrick Mahomes’ 30th&nbsp;birthday is today. Can you put into perspective what he has done in his 20’s?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, he’s (Patrick Mahomes) done quite a bit to 30. It’s hard to believe he’s 30 years old; I mean time flies. I asked him if he felt old. Sometimes when you’re in your 20’s you look at 30 and that looks like an old man. He said he feels the same. I told him that’s a good thing because when you get to my age you want to make sure you feel the same, doggonit (laughter).”

Q:&nbsp;What are you evaluating on what you guys can do better?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah I think for myself, just being better at executing in some of those earlier moments in the game, especially I mean, there were guys open – obviously Noah (Gray) early, but even more than that if I sit in that pocket a little bit longer and trust those guys, get the ball to guys down the field I feel like we can make some more explosive plays. That was stuff I scouted on myself but knowing we are going up against a good defensive team this week, especially that d-line so finding the right moments to take those shots downfield but not taking the negative plays as well.”