<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/44d82000-4ac4-4550-a35f-00825c776bf7?elinkdata=31366">D'Heaven Domena</a> finally got his chance and taken full advantage of it.

Thrust into duty when Kansas Wesleyan's NAIA First Team All-American running back <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a28c77a0-7380-4b1f-b2b6-4524bd26f313?elinkdata=31366">Luke Armstrong</a> suffered a season-ending injury in the second game Domena had been superb in five consecutive games. His effort Saturday night against Sterling, though, was otherworldly.

Domena rushed for 259 yards on a whopping 40 carries, caught two passes for 51 yards and scored three touchdowns in leading KWU to a 35-0 rout of Sterling on a rainy and chilly Homecoming night on Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.

The Coyotes improved to 6-2 overall and 2-0 in the Bissell Division.

Domena, a senior from Charlotte, N.C., has 776 yards rushing on 127 carries in the last six games and has scored seven touchdowns in the last two after scoring four times against Saint Mary.

On the season he has 868 yards on 151 attempts (5.7 per carry) and 10 touchdowns.

"He was just waiting his turn and now he's had an opportunity," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d9898d7e-592e-425f-bfd3-e92b1db61e89?elinkdata=31366">Matt Middleton</a> said on the postgame radio show. "He's a physical back that makes some things happen and I do believe he is getting better and better each and every week."

Domena was dominant against Sterling. By halftime he had 129 yards on 18 carries that included a 32-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. He also caught a screen pass that went for 50 yards.

Domena added 130 yards rushing in the second half and scored twice in the third quarter on runs of five and four yards.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3557b4ba-ce3b-4f7a-8c3d-26452bb66563?elinkdata=31366">Henry Austad</a>, still hobbled by a leg injury, completed 17 of 30 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown and scored on a 1-yard one. KWU outgained Sterling 481-215 in total yards and had 33 first downs to the Warriors' 13.

The Coyotes lost two fumbles deep in Sterling territory in the first quarter but scored three touchdowns in the second on Austad's sneak from the 1, Domena's long run and Austad's one-yard pass to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d81ddde1-dc5d-4427-bad5-0a56b96effdc?elinkdata=31366">Callum Armstrong</a> who typically plays defensive end.

"In junior college he played receiver and tight end and then transitioned to defensive end," Middleton said. "He's been on me a little about letting him catch a ball, so I let him run around this week and said, 'if I get a chance, we'll go one on one and throw it up' and that's what we did. One catch, one target, one touchdown."

Wesleyan's defense was suffocating from start to finish. Sterling had minus-33 yards rushing at halftime and ended with 25 on 24 carries. The Coyotes notched five sacks and intercepted five passes, giving them nine in the last two games. Safety <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6d55c840-186a-489c-b597-68ea255582f8?elinkdata=31366">Taylor Collins</a> picked off two passes Saturday and had two against Saint Mary.

"I think they've been more aggressive," Middleton said. "The bottom line is they're breaking to the ball more and we're catching them versus bouncing off our chest like before. I'm super proud of them, the defensive staff and what they've done."

Sterling quarterback Rocklin Baptista was 12 of 29 for 143 yards and four interceptions. Backup quarterback Zachary Isaak also had a pass intercepted.

"Coach (David) Leonard (defensive coordinator) will tell you our number one goal going into the season was to stop the run," Middleton said. "Somebody beats us throwing it then that's what happens. It was a huge night for us."

The Coyotes embark on a brutal three-game stretch over the next three weeks starting with unbeaten and fourth-ranked Friends at 1 p.m. Saturday at Equity Bank Park in Wichita. The Falcons (8-0) defeated Southwestern 42-28 Saturday in Winfield.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/44d82000-4ac4-4550-a35f-00825c776bf7?elinkdata=31366">D'Heaven Domena</a> finally got his chance and taken full advantage of it.Thrust into duty when Kansas Wesleyan's NAIA First Team All-American running back <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a28c77a0-7380-4b1f-b2b6-4524bd26f313?elinkdata=31366">Luke Armstrong</a> suffered a season-ending injury in the second game Domena had been superb in five consecutive games. His effort Saturday night against Sterling, though, was otherworldly.Domena rushed for 259 yards on a whopping 40 carries, caught two passes for 51 yards and scored three touchdowns in leading KWU to a 35-0 rout of Sterling on a rainy and chilly Homecoming night on Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.The Coyotes improved to 6-2 overall and 2-0 in the Bissell Division.Domena, a senior from Charlotte, N.C., has 776 yards rushing on 127 carries in the last six games and has scored seven touchdowns in the last two after scoring four times against Saint Mary.On the season he has 868 yards on 151 attempts (5.7 per carry) and 10 touchdowns."He was just waiting his turn and now he's had an opportunity," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d9898d7e-592e-425f-bfd3-e92b1db61e89?elinkdata=31366">Matt Middleton</a> said on the postgame radio show. "He's a physical back that makes some things happen and I do believe he is getting better and better each and every week."Domena was dominant against Sterling. By halftime he had 129 yards on 18 carries that included a 32-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. He also caught a screen pass that went for 50 yards.Wesleyan led 21-0 at halftime.Domena added 130 yards rushing in the second half and scored twice in the third quarter on runs of five and four yards.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3557b4ba-ce3b-4f7a-8c3d-26452bb66563?elinkdata=31366">Henry Austad</a>, still hobbled by a leg injury, completed 17 of 30 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown and scored on a 1-yard one. KWU outgained Sterling 481-215 in total yards and had 33 first downs to the Warriors' 13.The Coyotes lost two fumbles deep in Sterling territory in the first quarter but scored three touchdowns in the second on Austad's sneak from the 1, Domena's long run and Austad's one-yard pass to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d81ddde1-dc5d-4427-bad5-0a56b96effdc?elinkdata=31366">Callum Armstrong</a> who typically plays defensive end."In junior college he played receiver and tight end and then transitioned to defensive end," Middleton said. "He's been on me a little about letting him catch a ball, so I let him run around this week and said, 'if I get a chance, we'll go one on one and throw it up' and that's what we did. One catch, one target, one touchdown."Wesleyan's defense was suffocating from start to finish. Sterling had minus-33 yards rushing at halftime and ended with 25 on 24 carries. The Coyotes notched five sacks and intercepted five passes, giving them nine in the last two games. Safety <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6d55c840-186a-489c-b597-68ea255582f8?elinkdata=31366">Taylor Collins</a> picked off two passes Saturday and had two against Saint Mary."I think they've been more aggressive," Middleton said. "The bottom line is they're breaking to the ball more and we're catching them versus bouncing off our chest like before. I'm super proud of them, the defensive staff and what they've done."Sterling quarterback Rocklin Baptista was 12 of 29 for 143 yards and four interceptions. Backup quarterback Zachary Isaak also had a pass intercepted."Coach (David) Leonard (defensive coordinator) will tell you our number one goal going into the season was to stop the run," Middleton said. "Somebody beats us throwing it then that's what happens. It was a huge night for us."The Coyotes embark on a brutal three-game stretch over the next three weeks starting with unbeaten and fourth-ranked Friends at 1 p.m. Saturday at Equity Bank Park in Wichita. The Falcons (8-0) defeated Southwestern 42-28 Saturday in Winfield.

🏈 Domena, Defense lead Coyotes to 35-0 Homecoming win over Sterling Warriors

WINFIELD - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer picked up an important 2-1 win over the Southwestern College Moundbuilders on Saturday at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.

The victory boosts the Coyotes' record to 10-3-3 overall and 7-2-2 in the KCAC. KWU had 23 points in the conference table, just a point out of third place, behind York. The win also gives KWU more space ahead of fifth place Southwestern with 18 points.

Next week is the final week of the KCAC regular season before the conference tournament starts in two weeks.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2c52aac9-22e2-4354-85f6-2f1eb1d847b3?elinkdata=31465">Noel Zimbeva</a> got the Coyotes on the board in the 29th minute taking a one-time pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6fcb8a08-8b58-4f1d-bf34-92e6547874b7?elinkdata=31465">Quatama Massaquoi</a> and moved through traffic unchallenged, unleashing a rocket-speed shot that hit off the far post and in for the goal.

Southwestern got the equalizer in the 34th and the match went to intermission tied.

The Coyotes got the match winner in the 60th minute from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ad0c54a1-c38d-413c-b5dc-2617b1bae421?elinkdata=31465">Brennen Lamont</a>. He took a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a1e9a997-fa06-48ea-902a-ef772518ce24?elinkdata=31465">Gonzalo Gaubeka</a> and sent it home.

The Coyotes outshot Southwestern 13-4 in the match led byy three from ZImbeva.

WINFIELD - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Soccer picked up an important 2-1 win over the Southwestern College Moundbuilders on Saturday at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.The victory boosts the Coyotes' record to 10-3-3 overall and 7-2-2 in the KCAC. KWU had 23 points in the conference table, just a point out of third place, behind York. The win also gives KWU more space ahead of fifth place Southwestern with 18 points.Next week is the final week of the KCAC regular season before the conference tournament starts in two weeks.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2c52aac9-22e2-4354-85f6-2f1eb1d847b3?elinkdata=31465">Noel Zimbeva</a> got the Coyotes on the board in the 29th minute taking a one-time pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6fcb8a08-8b58-4f1d-bf34-92e6547874b7?elinkdata=31465">Quatama Massaquoi</a> and moved through traffic unchallenged, unleashing a rocket-speed shot that hit off the far post and in for the goal.Southwestern got the equalizer in the 34th and the match went to intermission tied.The Coyotes got the match winner in the 60th minute from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ad0c54a1-c38d-413c-b5dc-2617b1bae421?elinkdata=31465">Brennen Lamont</a>. He took a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a1e9a997-fa06-48ea-902a-ef772518ce24?elinkdata=31465">Gonzalo Gaubeka</a> and sent it home.The Coyotes outshot Southwestern 13-4 in the match led byy three from ZImbeva.

⚽️ KW Men’s Soccer picks up pivotal 2-1 win over Southwestern

WINFIELD - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer got a 1-0 win over Southwestern College on Saturday night at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.

The lone goal of the match came moments after the start of the second half in the 47th minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e1e595fb-9b77-4306-893e-381c02521b19?elinkdata=31498">Rylie Moreno-Rojas</a>.

She took a corner from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/926e4959-be76-43ed-b427-3c3d1f696738?elinkdata=31498">Minaya Winchester</a> that went over the gathered players in front of goal to Moreno-Rojas at the right post and she one-timed it in for the goal.

Wesleyan was on the offensive early, racking up several early shot tries but couldn't find a goal.

A shot by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8b8ed671-2eaf-4ec1-81c2-c67a0f04731f?elinkdata=31498">Emma Gervy</a> that was saved over the touch line set up the corner by Winchester that led to the goal.

Gervy had six shots to lead the Coyotes. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2e2a9014-d045-463d-ba3b-27165fbde916?elinkdata=31498">Isabella Galvan</a> had five saves in the shutout win.

WINFIELD - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer got a 1-0 win over Southwestern College on Saturday night at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.The lone goal of the match came moments after the start of the second half in the 47th minute by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e1e595fb-9b77-4306-893e-381c02521b19?elinkdata=31498">Rylie Moreno-Rojas</a>.She took a corner from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/926e4959-be76-43ed-b427-3c3d1f696738?elinkdata=31498">Minaya Winchester</a> that went over the gathered players in front of goal to Moreno-Rojas at the right post and she one-timed it in for the goal.Wesleyan was on the offensive early, racking up several early shot tries but couldn't find a goal.A shot by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8b8ed671-2eaf-4ec1-81c2-c67a0f04731f?elinkdata=31498">Emma Gervy</a> that was saved over the touch line set up the corner by Winchester that led to the goal.Gervy had six shots to lead the Coyotes. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2e2a9014-d045-463d-ba3b-27165fbde916?elinkdata=31498">Isabella Galvan</a> had five saves in the shutout win.

⚽️ Coyote Women’s Soccer gets 1-0 win over Southwestern

ASHLAND, Neb. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Cross Country finished in third place at the Doane Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic on Saturday at Mahoney State Park.

The field was loaded with some of the top teams in the NAIA as 27 teams scored in the race.

The Coyotes were third only behind meet winner College of Idaho with 42 points and Saint Mary with 75 points. KWU had 100 points and was well ahead of Benedictine with 115. Mount Mercy was fifth with 230.

The field was large with 279 toeing the line to start and 275 cross the finish of the 6000m course.

Leading the way for the Coyotes was <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4593e1b5-7a03-426c-bc4a-b1660146a890?elinkdata=31399">Kirstin Hackney</a> in ninth with a time of 22:08.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6f3f1209-aede-44a8-ae6a-dd0c1ab115e3?elinkdata=31399">Kierra Jensen</a> was 11th with a time of 22:15.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fcb6d60f-f5c9-4885-8845-ca9e8e811d05?elinkdata=31399">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> was 25th in 22:53.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/898d3391-75fd-4882-b492-d28947119bce?elinkdata=31399">Charlee Lind</a> was 26th in 22:54.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/de6bd4eb-5c47-4c03-aa8d-d112bb4a1f7e?elinkdata=31399">Josie Koppes</a> was 29th in 22:58.4, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0b26ccb0-283e-484c-a66a-93111428cee5?elinkdata=31399">Micah Dickens</a> was 42nd in 23:11.5 to round out the Coyote Top 7.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/86457aa9-8a5e-4f57-92fe-08d74f5c238a?elinkdata=31399">Makayla Little</a> was 70th in 23:47, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/10444198-13a8-4518-ac85-23574a74dc26?elinkdata=31399">Hailey Nordhus</a> was 104th in 24:26.7, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4d40888f-01d4-4bb2-b261-159a805c1cc4?elinkdata=31399">Mya Schweitzer</a> was 125th in 24:49.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d2d69bfd-201a-4883-b733-1b5173b7cd76?elinkdata=31399">Emma McAlister</a> was 128th in 24:54.1 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/978a0799-32d7-4d1a-a10e-7e5c565307d8?elinkdata=31399">Joni Schroeder</a> was 145th in 25:08 to round out the finishers for the Coyotes.

Grace Steinmetz of Bellevue (Neb.) was the meet individual winner in a time of 20:48.1.

The Coyotes now prepare for the KCAC Cross Country Championships on November 8 in Leavenworth.

ASHLAND, Neb. - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Cross Country finished in fourth place at the Doane Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic on Saturday at Mahoney State Park.

KWU finished fourth in the team standings with 148 points. Saint Mary was the meet winner with 59 points, College of Idaho was second with 100, Doane was third with 109, KWU was fourth, and Columbia (Mo.) was fifth rounding out the Top 5 teams.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/088fc0b7-194e-4ebb-a945-a848edaff2fb?elinkdata=31432">Damion Jackson</a> paced the Coyote finishers, with a ninth place finish, covering the 8000m course in 25:03.5. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ea2479bb-88ba-4c81-9113-c7b84b81f433?elinkdata=31432">Jake Cruz</a> was 19th in 25:17.4, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b2140e57-4584-4385-97e4-f2e18e04a076?elinkdata=31432">Ty Davidson</a> was 31st in 25:35.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/44c13f82-8fe7-4e28-a2e7-0f955bdcaa0e?elinkdata=31432">Ethan Ochana</a> was 41st in 25:43.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/800179e7-c3e7-48bf-981e-fc64688ba291?elinkdata=31432">Evan Pearce</a> was 56th in 26:02.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/56414196-183b-4d19-b8e1-e0a305b591e4?elinkdata=31432">Tytus Reed</a> was 65th in 26:09 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79eab9d2-4ee1-4352-90a3-3176fd7e2466?elinkdata=31432">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 71st in 26:13.5 rounding out the top seven for the Coyotes.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0c26df5b-298b-49ed-8ed6-b7717792eafa?elinkdata=31432">Luke Adams</a> was 77th in 26:20.8, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5ddd018a-305c-4bc5-be17-1d2cc817f2e0?elinkdata=31432">Braulio Torres</a> was 85th in 26:30.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cf6d3e1a-4024-4cbd-b147-08be17417550?elinkdata=31432">Austin Schaeffer</a> was 94th in 26:42.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2fe24839-1bb9-46ee-97a8-2f3dd63c15a6?elinkdata=31432">Triston Cottone</a> was 112th in 26:55.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cb881c34-f5d4-4e4d-b4cc-d0dbbf273dc2?elinkdata=31432">Ian Doss</a> was 138th in 27:10.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/15608bed-dce8-4a55-9a11-84cb0e0f0b41?elinkdata=31432">Nicolas Martinez</a> was 145th in 27:17.2, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0f0c18ac-7fa8-4386-a2b1-21034fc02c4f?elinkdata=31432">Mauricio Mendez</a> was 155th in 27:23.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/66538847-991a-486b-861f-f66dbb1cc597?elinkdata=31432">Cohen Greve</a> was 156th in 27:24.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4df1bab3-c3ff-4777-ab14-b2fc22fab577?elinkdata=31432">Jude Nelson</a> was 177th in 27:44.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/84da1623-8e66-423d-8e28-66eecda42fb5?elinkdata=31432">Barka Bapeng, Jr.</a>, was 198th in 28:06.4, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6c99ac8f-9b87-4aa0-8427-b0d5db5d1f33?elinkdata=31432">Brodie Bradshaw</a> was 200th in 28:11.2, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/363307d3-2efb-4d15-b304-be05b92f4838?elinkdata=31432">Connor Olsen</a> was 227th in 28:40.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ddd594c1-242f-46b0-a3dc-da6493cdb186?elinkdata=31432">Will Childers</a> was 257th in 29:17.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8071f098-7648-4377-bbbc-0e117d21c39b?elinkdata=31432">Logan Topp</a> was 271st in 29:44.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2705fa6d-dfda-49ea-aedf-51cd7cea19eb?elinkdata=31432">Roman Mai</a> was 288th in 30:12.9, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79611755-7a1a-4920-8751-b4494cabc5b9?elinkdata=31432">Efrain Santibanez</a> was 309th in 31:11.7.

Kalieb Redda of Columbia was the individual meet champion with a time of 24:19.4, leading the field of 345 runners.

ASHLAND, Neb. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Cross Country finished in third place at the Doane Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic on Saturday at Mahoney State Park.The field was loaded with some of the top teams in the NAIA as 27 teams scored in the race.The Coyotes were third only behind meet winner College of Idaho with 42 points and Saint Mary with 75 points. KWU had 100 points and was well ahead of Benedictine with 115. Mount Mercy was fifth with 230.The field was large with 279 toeing the line to start and 275 cross the finish of the 6000m course.Leading the way for the Coyotes was <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4593e1b5-7a03-426c-bc4a-b1660146a890?elinkdata=31399">Kirstin Hackney</a> in ninth with a time of 22:08.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6f3f1209-aede-44a8-ae6a-dd0c1ab115e3?elinkdata=31399">Kierra Jensen</a> was 11th with a time of 22:15.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fcb6d60f-f5c9-4885-8845-ca9e8e811d05?elinkdata=31399">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> was 25th in 22:53.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/898d3391-75fd-4882-b492-d28947119bce?elinkdata=31399">Charlee Lind</a> was 26th in 22:54.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/de6bd4eb-5c47-4c03-aa8d-d112bb4a1f7e?elinkdata=31399">Josie Koppes</a> was 29th in 22:58.4, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0b26ccb0-283e-484c-a66a-93111428cee5?elinkdata=31399">Micah Dickens</a> was 42nd in 23:11.5 to round out the Coyote Top 7.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/86457aa9-8a5e-4f57-92fe-08d74f5c238a?elinkdata=31399">Makayla Little</a> was 70th in 23:47, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/10444198-13a8-4518-ac85-23574a74dc26?elinkdata=31399">Hailey Nordhus</a> was 104th in 24:26.7, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4d40888f-01d4-4bb2-b261-159a805c1cc4?elinkdata=31399">Mya Schweitzer</a> was 125th in 24:49.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d2d69bfd-201a-4883-b733-1b5173b7cd76?elinkdata=31399">Emma McAlister</a> was 128th in 24:54.1 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/978a0799-32d7-4d1a-a10e-7e5c565307d8?elinkdata=31399">Joni Schroeder</a> was 145th in 25:08 to round out the finishers for the Coyotes.Grace Steinmetz of Bellevue (Neb.) was the meet individual winner in a time of 20:48.1.The Coyotes now prepare for the KCAC Cross Country Championships on November 8 in Leavenworth.ASHLAND, Neb. - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Cross Country finished in fourth place at the Doane Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic on Saturday at Mahoney State Park.KWU finished fourth in the team standings with 148 points. Saint Mary was the meet winner with 59 points, College of Idaho was second with 100, Doane was third with 109, KWU was fourth, and Columbia (Mo.) was fifth rounding out the Top 5 teams.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/088fc0b7-194e-4ebb-a945-a848edaff2fb?elinkdata=31432">Damion Jackson</a> paced the Coyote finishers, with a ninth place finish, covering the 8000m course in 25:03.5. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ea2479bb-88ba-4c81-9113-c7b84b81f433?elinkdata=31432">Jake Cruz</a> was 19th in 25:17.4, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b2140e57-4584-4385-97e4-f2e18e04a076?elinkdata=31432">Ty Davidson</a> was 31st in 25:35.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/44c13f82-8fe7-4e28-a2e7-0f955bdcaa0e?elinkdata=31432">Ethan Ochana</a> was 41st in 25:43.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/800179e7-c3e7-48bf-981e-fc64688ba291?elinkdata=31432">Evan Pearce</a> was 56th in 26:02.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/56414196-183b-4d19-b8e1-e0a305b591e4?elinkdata=31432">Tytus Reed</a> was 65th in 26:09 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79eab9d2-4ee1-4352-90a3-3176fd7e2466?elinkdata=31432">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 71st in 26:13.5 rounding out the top seven for the Coyotes.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0c26df5b-298b-49ed-8ed6-b7717792eafa?elinkdata=31432">Luke Adams</a> was 77th in 26:20.8, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5ddd018a-305c-4bc5-be17-1d2cc817f2e0?elinkdata=31432">Braulio Torres</a> was 85th in 26:30.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cf6d3e1a-4024-4cbd-b147-08be17417550?elinkdata=31432">Austin Schaeffer</a> was 94th in 26:42.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2fe24839-1bb9-46ee-97a8-2f3dd63c15a6?elinkdata=31432">Triston Cottone</a> was 112th in 26:55.6, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cb881c34-f5d4-4e4d-b4cc-d0dbbf273dc2?elinkdata=31432">Ian Doss</a> was 138th in 27:10.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/15608bed-dce8-4a55-9a11-84cb0e0f0b41?elinkdata=31432">Nicolas Martinez</a> was 145th in 27:17.2, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0f0c18ac-7fa8-4386-a2b1-21034fc02c4f?elinkdata=31432">Mauricio Mendez</a> was 155th in 27:23.5, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/66538847-991a-486b-861f-f66dbb1cc597?elinkdata=31432">Cohen Greve</a> was 156th in 27:24.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4df1bab3-c3ff-4777-ab14-b2fc22fab577?elinkdata=31432">Jude Nelson</a> was 177th in 27:44.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/84da1623-8e66-423d-8e28-66eecda42fb5?elinkdata=31432">Barka Bapeng, Jr.</a>, was 198th in 28:06.4, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6c99ac8f-9b87-4aa0-8427-b0d5db5d1f33?elinkdata=31432">Brodie Bradshaw</a> was 200th in 28:11.2, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/363307d3-2efb-4d15-b304-be05b92f4838?elinkdata=31432">Connor Olsen</a> was 227th in 28:40.3, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ddd594c1-242f-46b0-a3dc-da6493cdb186?elinkdata=31432">Will Childers</a> was 257th in 29:17.9, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8071f098-7648-4377-bbbc-0e117d21c39b?elinkdata=31432">Logan Topp</a> was 271st in 29:44.1, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2705fa6d-dfda-49ea-aedf-51cd7cea19eb?elinkdata=31432">Roman Mai</a> was 288th in 30:12.9, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/79611755-7a1a-4920-8751-b4494cabc5b9?elinkdata=31432">Efrain Santibanez</a> was 309th in 31:11.7.Kalieb Redda of Columbia was the individual meet champion with a time of 24:19.4, leading the field of 345 runners.

👟 KWU Cross Country teams post 3-4 finish at Blazing Tiger

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw for 231 yards while accounting for four touchdowns, Kansas State returned a fumble 20 yards for another score, and the Wildcats routed Kansas 42-17 on Saturday for their 17th consecutive victory in the Sunflower Showdown.

Johnson ran for two TDs and threw for two more, including a 78-yard strike to Jayce Brown, who finished with four catches for 160 yards. Joe Jackson added 69 yards on the ground, helping the Wildcats (4-4, 3-2 Big 12) to run out the clock late.

Kansas State made life especially miserable on a cold, wet day for Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels, who was 17 of 35 for 129 yards with an interception. Daniels did have a touchdown run, while Daniel Hishaw Jr. ran for 67 yards and a score.

The Jayhawks (4-4, 2-3) still have not beaten their rival down Interstate 70 since Nov. 1, 2008 — seven head coaches ago.

The opening half Saturday was an exercise in polar-opposite quarters.

The first was downright crazy: Kansas State fumbled the opening kickoff, leading to a quick touchdown by Kansas. Then the Wildcats answered with a long touchdown drive, held the Jayhawks, then scooped up a poor snap on the punt and returned it for another score, giving coach Chris Klieman's bunch a 21-7 advantage.

The second quarter was downright boring: Kansas took over midway through it and embarked on an 18-play, 85-yard drive in which it converted four third downs and soaked up more than 8 1/2 minutes. By the time Daniel Hishaw barreled into the end zone to make it 21-14, the Wildcats had enough time to run just one play before the break.

As so often happens in this rivalry, the good feelings for Kansas didn't last.

The Jayhawks went three-and-out on their opening two series of the second half, and Kansas State capitalized on an interception of Daniels to extend the lead on DeVon Rice's touchdown plunge midway through the third quarter.

The decisive blow came moments later, after Kansas had settled for a field goal to make it 28-17. On the Wildcats' next play from scrimmage, Johnson found Brown in stride down the sideline for a 78-yard touchdown reception.

Kansas turned over on downs on its next two possessions, allowing the Wildcats to begin their celebration early.

Kansas State showed remarkable poise after fumbling the game's opening kickoff. That hasn't always been the case this season, especially when games have been tight. Each of its four losses has been by six points or fewer.

Kansas had been averaging 418.3 yards and 32.4 points per game. It finished with 247 yards of offense against the Wildcats.

Kansas State plays No. 14 Texas Tech next Saturday.

Kansas plays Oklahoma State the same day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761422147672.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw for 231 yards while accounting for four touchdowns, Kansas State returned a fumble 20 yards for another score, and the Wildcats routed Kansas 42-17 on Saturday for their 17th consecutive victory in the Sunflower Showdown.Johnson ran for two TDs and threw for two more, including a 78-yard strike to Jayce Brown, who finished with four catches for 160 yards. Joe Jackson added 69 yards on the ground, helping the Wildcats (4-4, 3-2 Big 12) to run out the clock late.Kansas State made life especially miserable on a cold, wet day for Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels, who was 17 of 35 for 129 yards with an interception. Daniels did have a touchdown run, while Daniel Hishaw Jr. ran for 67 yards and a score.The Jayhawks (4-4, 2-3) still have not beaten their rival down Interstate 70 since Nov. 1, 2008 — seven head coaches ago.The opening half Saturday was an exercise in polar-opposite quarters.The first was downright crazy: Kansas State fumbled the opening kickoff, leading to a quick touchdown by Kansas. Then the Wildcats answered with a long touchdown drive, held the Jayhawks, then scooped up a poor snap on the punt and returned it for another score, giving coach Chris Klieman's bunch a 21-7 advantage.The second quarter was downright boring: Kansas took over midway through it and embarked on an 18-play, 85-yard drive in which it converted four third downs and soaked up more than 8 1/2 minutes. By the time Daniel Hishaw barreled into the end zone to make it 21-14, the Wildcats had enough time to run just one play before the break.As so often happens in this rivalry, the good feelings for Kansas didn't last.The Jayhawks went three-and-out on their opening two series of the second half, and Kansas State capitalized on an interception of Daniels to extend the lead on DeVon Rice's touchdown plunge midway through the third quarter.The decisive blow came moments later, after Kansas had settled for a field goal to make it 28-17. On the Wildcats' next play from scrimmage, Johnson found Brown in stride down the sideline for a 78-yard touchdown reception.Kansas turned over on downs on its next two possessions, allowing the Wildcats to begin their celebration early.<h2>The takeaway</h2>Kansas State showed remarkable poise after fumbling the game's opening kickoff. That hasn't always been the case this season, especially when games have been tight. Each of its four losses has been by six points or fewer.Kansas had been averaging 418.3 yards and 32.4 points per game. It finished with 247 yards of offense against the Wildcats.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State plays No. 14 Texas Tech next Saturday.Kansas plays Oklahoma State the same day.

🏈 K-State beats KU for 17th straight Sunflower Showdown win

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball coasted to a straight set win over the Southwestern College Moundbuilders on Friday night at Mabee Arena as part of Homecoming 2025. The Coyotes won 25-18, 25-21, 25-19 to complete the sweep.

KWU got back over .500 improving its record to 12-11 overall and 6-3 in the KCAC, meanwhile Southwestern fell to 8-16 overall, 2-8 in the KCAC.

The Coyotes raced out to a 7-2 lead in the first set, but Southwestern came back within a point at 8-7. Four straight by the Coyotes made it 12-7, and the lead later extended to 20-14. KWU led 23-16 before Southwestern got two points, but the Coyotes got kills by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a1893b0c-1dee-4a22-b1dd-87b4d3212013?elinkdata=31333">Kylee Harris</a> and a setter dump kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/806636b9-73b9-4925-b6e3-6c9488d8c36c?elinkdata=31333">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a> to close out the first set.

Southwestern led 3-1 to start the second set, but the Coyotes, resilient in nature came back to lead 6-5. It was tied 8-8 when the Coyotes rattled off three in a row to take an 11-8 lead. Southwestern came back and took the lead again and led 14-12 when the Coyotes put together a 4-0 run to take a 16-14 lead. A service ace by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/98df6950-35b7-4240-a140-c838d9957563?elinkdata=31333">Malia Smith</a> extended the lead to 19-15 and the Coyotes had set point at 24-17 before the Moundbuilders strung together four in a row. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/36391128-3499-4dc3-92ad-49ac937f5cc0?elinkdata=31333">Camryn Lewis</a> ended the set with a kill.

In the third, Southwestern again led early with the Coyotes coming back. Southwestern tied things at 14 when the Coyotes got the room they needed, scoring four straight to take an 18-14 lead. The Coyotes extended the lead to 22-16 before Southwestern scored three to make it 22-19. The Coyotes closed it out with three points to win the match.

Wesleyan hit a solid .260 as a team as <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d0de6b6e-62f2-4602-a245-c552297fe0a6?elinkdata=31333">Kylee Harris'</a> nine kills led the way. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ce466120-7029-4e35-b190-db8d0afdaf7f?elinkdata=31333">Joey Pennington</a> had eight kills while hitting .467 for the match. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6c5b2f44-c190-4dca-9480-336016a1f354?elinkdata=31333">Blair Pennington</a> had 16 assists and Stuhlsatz had 15. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0f735a3-0327-4b6f-bea7-ff2639ff11b9?elinkdata=31333">Tristyn Hedman</a> had 16 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d3e27d18-e403-4509-9037-edf6ba23f0b3?elinkdata=31333">Kate Bebout</a> had three blocks.

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball coasted to a straight set win over the Southwestern College Moundbuilders on Friday night at Mabee Arena as part of Homecoming 2025. The Coyotes won 25-18, 25-21, 25-19 to complete the sweep.KWU got back over .500 improving its record to 12-11 overall and 6-3 in the KCAC, meanwhile Southwestern fell to 8-16 overall, 2-8 in the KCAC.The Coyotes raced out to a 7-2 lead in the first set, but Southwestern came back within a point at 8-7. Four straight by the Coyotes made it 12-7, and the lead later extended to 20-14. KWU led 23-16 before Southwestern got two points, but the Coyotes got kills by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a1893b0c-1dee-4a22-b1dd-87b4d3212013?elinkdata=31333">Kylee Harris</a> and a setter dump kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/806636b9-73b9-4925-b6e3-6c9488d8c36c?elinkdata=31333">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a> to close out the first set.Southwestern led 3-1 to start the second set, but the Coyotes, resilient in nature came back to lead 6-5. It was tied 8-8 when the Coyotes rattled off three in a row to take an 11-8 lead. Southwestern came back and took the lead again and led 14-12 when the Coyotes put together a 4-0 run to take a 16-14 lead. A service ace by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/98df6950-35b7-4240-a140-c838d9957563?elinkdata=31333">Malia Smith</a> extended the lead to 19-15 and the Coyotes had set point at 24-17 before the Moundbuilders strung together four in a row. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/36391128-3499-4dc3-92ad-49ac937f5cc0?elinkdata=31333">Camryn Lewis</a> ended the set with a kill.In the third, Southwestern again led early with the Coyotes coming back. Southwestern tied things at 14 when the Coyotes got the room they needed, scoring four straight to take an 18-14 lead. The Coyotes extended the lead to 22-16 before Southwestern scored three to make it 22-19. The Coyotes closed it out with three points to win the match.Wesleyan hit a solid .260 as a team as <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d0de6b6e-62f2-4602-a245-c552297fe0a6?elinkdata=31333">Kylee Harris'</a> nine kills led the way. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ce466120-7029-4e35-b190-db8d0afdaf7f?elinkdata=31333">Joey Pennington</a> had eight kills while hitting .467 for the match. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6c5b2f44-c190-4dca-9480-336016a1f354?elinkdata=31333">Blair Pennington</a> had 16 assists and Stuhlsatz had 15. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0f735a3-0327-4b6f-bea7-ff2639ff11b9?elinkdata=31333">Tristyn Hedman</a> had 16 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d3e27d18-e403-4509-9037-edf6ba23f0b3?elinkdata=31333">Kate Bebout</a> had three blocks.

🏐 KWU Volleyball dominates Moundbuilders

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

It’s hard to put into words just how dominant the Southeast of Saline football program has been over the last six seasons, but a few numbers do help put things in perspective.

Following a 53-12 beatdown of the Ellsworth Bearcats on Friday night, the Trojans have now won six-straight outright league titles and six-straight district titles.

Perhaps more impressively, within that six-season span, Southeast has never suffered a regular-season defeat, extending that win streak to 48 games, a streak that will stand for a minimum of 2,513 days.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing for the Trojans on Friday. A slow start kept the Bearcats in it early, but 37 unanswered points to close the contest put things firmly out of reach down the stretch.

“We didn’t do a good job of executing in the first half and we didn’t make any changes in the second half,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We just did a better job of doing the things that we wanted to do.”

One player that didn’t get off to a slow start was senior tailback Grady Gebhardt, who took the opening handoff 55 yards to the house to put the Trojans on top 8-0.

Another Gebhardt score on the ensuing drive made it 16-0, but Ellsworth would tighten up on both sides of the ball to make it 16-6 at halftime.

Before the Trojans could implement their halftime adjustments, a fumble on their first drive of the third quarter gave Ellsworth the football with a short field, and the Bearcats capitalized, scoring to cut the lead to four.

That would be the last positive play of the night for Ellsworth.

Two more Gebhardt rushing touchdowns, a pair of scores for Amarion Holub, a touchdown connection from Tiernan Ptacek to Bryson Lippold, and two critical turnovers turned a tight game into a Trojan rout as Southeast cruised to a 53-12 victory.

The veterans shone brightly on senior night, led by Grady Gebhardt, who turned 20 carries into 234 yards and four touchdowns.

Not to be outdone, Amarion Holub converted four opportunities into 109 yards and two scores, adding a defensive interception to his big day.

Seemingly every single one of Southeast’s 16 seniors contributed to this win in a meaningful way, and will be needed down the stretch as the Trojans enter the postseason.

“Time is what’s helped to build this,” Gebhardt said. “It’s great people at Southeast of Saline, it’s great teachers, it’s great administration, it’s great families. All of those things help us grow our program. To have 16 seniors is a big deal, these kids have been in our program for four years and they’ve done so many great things for us.”

The Trojans, now 8-0 will host Southwestern Heights (2-6) in the playoff opener.

Ellsworth, now 5-3 will have to travel to Hillsboro (5-3) for a rematch against another Trojan foe.

You can watch the full broadcast of this game on demand any time below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostIt’s hard to put into words just how dominant the Southeast of Saline football program has been over the last six seasons, but a few numbers do help put things in perspective.Following a 53-12 beatdown of the Ellsworth Bearcats on Friday night, the Trojans have now won six-straight outright league titles and six-straight district titles.Perhaps more impressively, within that six-season span, Southeast has never suffered a regular-season defeat, extending that win streak to 48 games, a streak that will stand for a minimum of 2,513 days.<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>It wasn’t always smooth sailing for the Trojans on Friday. A slow start kept the Bearcats in it early, but 37 unanswered points to close the contest put things firmly out of reach down the stretch.“We didn’t do a good job of executing in the first half and we didn’t make any changes in the second half,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We just did a better job of doing the things that we wanted to do.”One player that didn’t get off to a slow start was senior tailback Grady Gebhardt, who took the opening handoff 55 yards to the house to put the Trojans on top 8-0.Another Gebhardt score on the ensuing drive made it 16-0, but Ellsworth would tighten up on both sides of the ball to make it 16-6 at halftime.Before the Trojans could implement their halftime adjustments, a fumble on their first drive of the third quarter gave Ellsworth the football with a short field, and the Bearcats capitalized, scoring to cut the lead to four.That would be the last positive play of the night for Ellsworth.Two more Gebhardt rushing touchdowns, a pair of scores for Amarion Holub, a touchdown connection from Tiernan Ptacek to Bryson Lippold, and two critical turnovers turned a tight game into a Trojan rout as Southeast cruised to a 53-12 victory.The veterans shone brightly on senior night, led by Grady Gebhardt, who turned 20 carries into 234 yards and four touchdowns.Not to be outdone, Amarion Holub converted four opportunities into 109 yards and two scores, adding a defensive interception to his big day.Seemingly every single one of Southeast’s 16 seniors contributed to this win in a meaningful way, and will be needed down the stretch as the Trojans enter the postseason.“Time is what’s helped to build this,” Gebhardt said. “It’s great people at Southeast of Saline, it’s great teachers, it’s great administration, it’s great families. All of those things help us grow our program. To have 16 seniors is a big deal, these kids have been in our program for four years and they’ve done so many great things for us.”The Trojans, now 8-0 will host Southwestern Heights (2-6) in the playoff opener.Ellsworth, now 5-3 will have to travel to Hillsboro (5-3) for a rematch against another Trojan foe.You can watch the full broadcast of this game on demand any time below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_Gayju6uAGI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Southeast scores 37 unanswered to secure sixth-straight district title

The Sacred Heart Knights battled, but fell short to a talented Republic County Buffaloes team in an overtime thriller for the district title.

On Friday in Belleville, the Buffaloes hosted the Knights for the final regular season and district title game for the 2025 Kansas High School football season.

Both teams, win or lose came into this game making history as the Buffaloes would end the season with a winning record since 1999 and the Knights since 2013.

However, the district title was up for grabs as defense from both teams shined throughout this game.

No score between both teams after the 1st quarter, yet the Buffaloes defense forced 3 sacks. The Knights also looked strong on defense stopping the Buffaloes from scoring.

Throughout the 2nd quarter, the Buffaloes defense picked up another sack and an interception by Conner Martin. However, the Knights responded by stopping the Buffaloes from scoring after a strong defensive performance before the end of the 1st half.

At the start of the 3rd quarter, the Buffaloes were forced to punt and Dom Matteucci soared down the field to block the attempted punt. The Buffaloes were able to stop the Knights, taking it over on downs.

The Knights did not let up, as the defense picked up their 2nd sack and taking it over on downs.&nbsp;

The Buffaloes then responded with a defensive stop of their own, as Grady Siemsen picked off Maddox Wells. The Knights defense were able to stop the Buffaloes once again and ended the 3rd quarter, with a score still at 0 a piece.

The Knights started the 4th quarter with the ball and after moving it down the field to Buffaloes territory, the Buffaloes defense picked up their 5th sack and forcing a punt.

It was all defense to the end of regulation as the Knights and the Buffaloes go into overtime, tied at 0-0.

- Each team gets a chance to score on offense with the ball spotted on the 10-yard line. If one team scores and the other team does not, the team who scored wins.

The Buffaloes received the ball first and scored on their very first play, as Nick Kendall put 6 on the board with a 10-yard rushing TD. Two-point conversion was good, bringing the score 8-0.

The Knights then started strong on their first drive, as Elias Gordon ran for 7-yards, bringing the Knights closer to the 3-yard line.

However, the Buffaloes became district champs as they were able to stop the Knights 3 times straight times, only forcing the Knights to gain 1-yard.

Final score: Republic County 8 , Sacred Heart 0

The Knights finished the regular season with a 5-3 record. Sacred Heart will host a playoff game next week at JRI Stadium. Those details will be updated in the coming week.

Nick Kendall: 1 rushing TD, 47 rushing yards

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725636000149.png" alt="Sacred Heart Knights" />
 <figcaption>Sacred Heart Knights</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostThe Sacred Heart Knights battled, but fell short to a talented Republic County Buffaloes team in an overtime thriller for the district title.On Friday in Belleville, the Buffaloes hosted the Knights for the final regular season and district title game for the 2025 Kansas High School football season.Both teams, win or lose came into this game making history as the Buffaloes would end the season with a winning record since 1999 and the Knights since 2013.However, the district title was up for grabs as defense from both teams shined throughout this game.<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>No score between both teams after the 1st quarter, yet the Buffaloes defense forced 3 sacks. The Knights also looked strong on defense stopping the Buffaloes from scoring.Throughout the 2nd quarter, the Buffaloes defense picked up another sack and an interception by Conner Martin. However, the Knights responded by stopping the Buffaloes from scoring after a strong defensive performance before the end of the 1st half.Score entering at the half, 0-0.At the start of the 3rd quarter, the Buffaloes were forced to punt and Dom Matteucci soared down the field to block the attempted punt. The Buffaloes were able to stop the Knights, taking it over on downs.The Knights did not let up, as the defense picked up their 2nd sack and taking it over on downs.&nbsp;The Buffaloes then responded with a defensive stop of their own, as Grady Siemsen picked off Maddox Wells. The Knights defense were able to stop the Buffaloes once again and ended the 3rd quarter, with a score still at 0 a piece.The Knights started the 4th quarter with the ball and after moving it down the field to Buffaloes territory, the Buffaloes defense picked up their 5th sack and forcing a punt.It was all defense to the end of regulation as the Knights and the Buffaloes go into overtime, tied at 0-0.Overtime rules:- Each team gets a chance to score on offense with the ball spotted on the 10-yard line. If one team scores and the other team does not, the team who scored wins.- No first downs.- No game clock.The Buffaloes received the ball first and scored on their very first play, as Nick Kendall put 6 on the board with a 10-yard rushing TD. Two-point conversion was good, bringing the score 8-0.The Knights then started strong on their first drive, as Elias Gordon ran for 7-yards, bringing the Knights closer to the 3-yard line.However, the Buffaloes became district champs as they were able to stop the Knights 3 times straight times, only forcing the Knights to gain 1-yard.Final score: Republic County 8 , Sacred Heart 0The Knights finished the regular season with a 5-3 record. Sacred Heart will host a playoff game next week at JRI Stadium. Those details will be updated in the coming week.<h2>Sacred Heart stats and key players</h2>Maddox Wells: 87 all-purpose yardsElias Gordon: 56 rushing yardsDom Matteucci: 22 all-purpose yardsNoah Hines: 27 receiving yards<h2>Republic County stats and key players</h2>Kash Henke: 122 all-purpose yardsNick Kendall: 1 rushing TD, 47 rushing yardsGrady Siemsen: 22 rushing yards, 1 INTConner Martin: 1 INTWatch the full game below:&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wZHHwEJlLMM"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Knights fall short in overtime thriller to Rep Co. for district title

🏈 Saline County Scoreboard Week Eight

The Coyotes play Gene Bissell Division opponent Sterling in their Homecoming game.GAME INFORMATION

THE SERIESThe Coyotes have won the last four games against Sterling and have had a 13-11 advantage since 2003. They defeated the Warriors 23-3 a year ago in Sterling.KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE

"We've been hit with an injury bug throughout the year, but we've had some guys step up, make plays. I think the biggest thing for me (vs. Saint Mary) was a full 60-minute game where I felt like we played from whistle to whistle and put a complete game together. We got some turnovers; we finally forced some guys into some scenarios to throw some picks.

"We haven't had explosives, and in this offense it's something that I'm accustomed to having. So, we were going to do our very best to try to create some matchups and create some of those and we finally did that. The biggest thing is (Domena) has become a system guy and knows what we want and how to attack certain things. He's become the feature back and I think it comes with confidence and having the opportunity to go do that.

"(Austad) is a tough dude for him to go through the knee injury he has sustained. This being his senior year and wanting to compete, bracing up, standing in there on one leg and being able to do some of the stuff he's done says a lot about who he is and says a lot about how he was raised.

"(Sterling is) going to be sound; they're going to be really good at what they do. We've got to create explosive (plays). The key for us is getting after the quarterback, pressure the heck out of him and try to make him make some errant throws."

"Obviously, we have mess ups, but throughout the week our coaches do a good job of getting us prepared for what's coming to us. We game plan accordingly but one big thing is just how we play defense. We understand our responsibilities depending on whatever the offense is heating up for us. We trust each other to be there. Everybody's trying to get to the ball every single play, everybody's filling your gap and trusting that everybody's going to do a job and it's going to work out for us.

"I play linebacker and is probably one of the hardest positions to play. I have to be in the run game, and I have to be in the pass game too. As the (middle linebacker) I'm calling plays and getting play calls in and making checks. There's a lot of responsibility that goes into it and you've got to make a lot of high-speed decisions really fast. It's a tough position to play.

"Sterling is definitely not somebody to sleep on. They do some good stuff over there and they can definitely move the ball."

The Coyotes play Gene Bissell Division opponent Sterling in their Homecoming game.GAME INFORMATION<ul>
 <li>Kickoff: 5 p.m.</li><li>Day:&nbsp;Saturday</li><li>Location: Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and the Graves Family Sport Complex</li><li>Records: Kansas Wesleyan 5-2 (1-0 Bissell Division); Sterling 1-6 (0-1)</li>
 </ul>LIVE COVERAGE<ul>
 <li>LIVE COVERAGE</li><li>The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network on&nbsp;the Urban Edge Network (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/41abbd28-85bb-48a5-a2ea-887945dd8fc7?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">https://urbanedgenetwork.net/watch/2871</a>).&nbsp;The game will also be available on the&nbsp;KCAC Network at&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bce80e3c-3da4-4be6-8dbe-53e945ef162e?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>.</li><li>Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/00380eb0-8184-4e54-993a-7f4efab2901a?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a></li><li>Radio coverage will be on KINA starting at 4 p.m. with Tyler Henry and Brooks Garretson. The&nbsp;online radio stream&nbsp;is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6aa2f2c4-330b-4ec9-9ae5-9af979ee2f18?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2</a>.</li>
 </ul>THE SERIESThe Coyotes have won the last four games against Sterling and have had a 13-11 advantage since 2003. They defeated the Warriors 23-3 a year ago in Sterling.KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Coyotes routed Saint Mary 42-21 last Saturday in Leavenworth. Their victory in the Bissell Division opener halted a two-game skid. KWU trailed 14-7 after one quarter but took a 28-14 into the locker room at halftime and led 42-14 in the fourth quarter before the Spires scored a late touchdown.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b9968e4d-a7f6-4e57-a74b-1abe7503d87d?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">Henry Austad</a>&nbsp;returned after missing one game with an injury and threw for 303 yards and a touchdown and had a rushing touchdown.&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/222a960c-2ae7-4fed-b09d-70dbdc2fc815?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">D'Heaven Domena</a>&nbsp;rushed for 90 yards and three touchdowns and caught a touchdown pass.&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d08a016d-b050-4193-b5d8-606ca104e8c1?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey</a>&nbsp;had eight receptions for 153 yards and a touchdown.</li><li>Defensively KWU intercepted four passes, two by&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/aec65efe-6803-43ca-8dc8-4230d2e7de8d?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">Taylor Collins</a>.&nbsp;<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/20cdf9fd-7a06-4f7c-937c-5673fe970bf7?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">Jamison Price</a>&nbsp;had 10 tackles, two for loss, and an interception while Brennan Allen had eight stops and an interception.</li><li>Domena has 609 yards rushing and averages 5.5 per carry. He has scored seven touchdowns on the ground along with Austad. Austad has 1,303 yards passing on a 66.2 percentage with seven touchdowns and one interception. Lomax-Spivey has 35 receptions for 418 yards and three TDs.</li><li><a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2937591e-5303-41f7-b39b-555c45972bbf?elinkdata=31300" target="_blank">Luke Armstrong</a>&nbsp;had 174 yards rushing and two touchdowns and the defense limited Sterling to 51 yards rushing on 49 attempts a year ago. The Coyotes led 7-0 at halftime and 23-0 after three quarters.</li>
 </ul>STERLING AT A GLANCE<ul>
 <li>The Warriors lost to Southwestern 74-28 last Saturday in Sterling. It was their second consecutive loss following a 29-17 victory over Avila on Sept. 27 in Sterling. They lost to Bethel 34-26 on Oct. 4 in North Newton.</li><li>Offensively, Sterling relies on its passing attack. The Warriors average 304.6 total yards that includes 259 passing but only 45 rushing. They score 21.7 points per game.</li><li>Senior Rocklin Baptista has completed 49 percent of his passes for 937 yards passing, nine touchdowns and five interceptions while freshman Jayden Briscoe has completed 57 percent for 805 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. Briscoe also has a team-best 117 yards rushing. Four wide receivers have 23, 23, 22 and 21 catches on the season.</li><li>Sterling's opponents average 42 points and 462 total yards - 245 passing and 217 rushing. Southwestern had 510 total yards (309 passing) last week.</li><li>Reggie Langford Jr. is in his second season as head coach after serving as offensive coordinator for one year. He is a 2015 Sterling graduate and played quarterback for the Warriors for three seasons.</li>
 </ul>KWU HEAD COACH MATT MIDDLETON"We've been hit with an injury bug throughout the year, but we've had some guys step up, make plays. I think the biggest thing for me (vs. Saint Mary) was a full 60-minute game where I felt like we played from whistle to whistle and put a complete game together. We got some turnovers; we finally forced some guys into some scenarios to throw some picks."We haven't had explosives, and in this offense it's something that I'm accustomed to having. So, we were going to do our very best to try to create some matchups and create some of those and we finally did that. The biggest thing is (Domena) has become a system guy and knows what we want and how to attack certain things. He's become the feature back and I think it comes with confidence and having the opportunity to go do that."(Austad) is a tough dude for him to go through the knee injury he has sustained. This being his senior year and wanting to compete, bracing up, standing in there on one leg and being able to do some of the stuff he's done says a lot about who he is and says a lot about how he was raised."(Sterling is) going to be sound; they're going to be really good at what they do. We've got to create explosive (plays). The key for us is getting after the quarterback, pressure the heck out of him and try to make him make some errant throws."LINEBACKER JAMISON PRICE"Obviously, we have mess ups, but throughout the week our coaches do a good job of getting us prepared for what's coming to us. We game plan accordingly but one big thing is just how we play defense. We understand our responsibilities depending on whatever the offense is heating up for us. We trust each other to be there. Everybody's trying to get to the ball every single play, everybody's filling your gap and trusting that everybody's going to do a job and it's going to work out for us."I play linebacker and is probably one of the hardest positions to play. I have to be in the run game, and I have to be in the pass game too. As the (middle linebacker) I'm calling plays and getting play calls in and making checks. There's a lot of responsibility that goes into it and you've got to make a lot of high-speed decisions really fast. It's a tough position to play."Sterling is definitely not somebody to sleep on. They do some good stuff over there and they can definitely move the ball."NEXT WEEK

🏈 KWU FB welcomes Sterling to Gene Bissell Field for Homecoming tilt on Saturday

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH AND SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q:&nbsp;Are communications with your son (Commanders Offensive Quality Control Coach Shane Toub) on a different level this week?

TOUB:&nbsp;“This is the only week we don’t talk. We’ve talked about this before. He (Commanders Offensive Quality Control Coach Shane Toub) has been in the league now for seven years, and we went against him when he was in Chicago. This is kind of cool, I mean it’s always cool. My parents came into town last week, on Saturday to see the last game and they stayed all week to see this one too to see Shane (Toub). It’s fun. It’s a cool thing. My son coaches for the Commanders, for those who didn’t know (laughter).”

Q:&nbsp;On the Commanders special teams unit.

TOUB:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you, we do a ranking system that we use for motivation with the guys and stuff and they’re second in the league. They got unbelievable numbers. They score touchdowns, they cover great, and they’re very well coached. I mean (Commanders Special Teams Coordinator) Larry Izzo does a great job. He was a good player, and he’s even a better coach and I’m very impressed watching the tape (and) watching these guys. What you see on tape is what you see in the numbers, too. They’re good.”

Q:&nbsp;How important was it for Harrison Butker to have a clean game?

TOUB:&nbsp;“It was real important. We get one and now we try to get another one. He (Harrison Butker) had a really good practice this week. We’re still going but he’s good so far and he’s at a good place.”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

Q: On the shutout against the Raiders.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That was special. I mean we enjoyed it for an hour (and) moved on (laughs). I think what gets lost a little bit in that is credit to the special teams, (they) didn’t give up any points, and the offense didn’t turn it over or have one of those. That’s part of it, and then a lot of credit to our guys (the defense). Then the other guys that I don’t want to get lost in all of that is somewhere in the fourth where we changed a lot of – those guys went in and did a nice job too. The Jack Cochrane’s and the Jeffrey Bassa’s and all the guys that went in there (and) Cooper McDonald. They were on point. We all remembered what happened in the Baltimore game where they had that long run. So, I think everybody was thinking about that. It’s a special thing. I’ll think more about it when the season is over. What I did tell the guys was, I hope that’s not the best game we play this year. That would be kind of nice, right?”

Q: What’s the difference between preparing for this Washington team without Jayden Daniels?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That’s a great question and I’ll be perfectly frank; it didn’t change at all, and I’ll tell you why, I think they (Commanders) did a really good job for their team by getting a backup quarterback who I think fits exactly what their – it doesn’t feel like, sometimes we play a drop back quarterback and the backup is an athlete. We always got to talk about and maybe have a couple of reps in practice in case this happens. I don’t think they skip a beat in terms of what they’re doing offensively. I think (Offensive Coordinator) Kliff (Kingsbury) just runs the offense because he just knows the next guy in there and I got a lot of respect for (Commanders QB) Marcus (Mariota). I think he’s – 11 seasons in this league. (I) put a highlight tape on yesterday morning, first thing we started off with of just plays he’s had with his feet and with his arm. I think he fits this offense really really well.”

Q: What have you seen from Leo Chenal over the last three years?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Leo (Chenal) is a key guy to what we do and what we’ve become because of how many things he can do. You guys have all seen it. He’s played linebacker then we put him at end, he’s gone in there and played tackle. Eventually probably have him out at corner or playing safety or something. The versatility of Leo, especially, and Drue (Tranquill) with the things that they can do have really helped us to kind of put things out there that are maybe a little bit unconventional at times. Leo has been terrific. He’s as valuable as anybody getting in there in key situations, we use him for a lot of different things.”

Q:&nbsp;On the offensive line’s performance.

NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s been good. It’s been really well. The guys are prepared. That’s part of the deal there is make sure that you’re prepared and make sure you understand your role and then a guy like (Mike) Caliendo comes in and does a great job stepping in last week. These guys are ready. They practice the right way and then when you have – really being good in the red zone last week, being great situationally (on) third and fourth down and then protecting the football you got to take advantage of that. We want to keep that going. We want to show – you also have to be careful, in my opinion of when you win, some of the stuff that you’re not doing right getting deodorized by winning. You got to make sure that you stay on top of that and on Monday when they come back in, you show them what we didn’t do right and how we need to make sure that just because we won, that’s not okay. We need to stay on top of that.”

Q:&nbsp;What’s the challenge that you give the offense to keep raising the team’s floor and ceiling?

NAGY:&nbsp;“To keep the execution at a high, right now, which it is. The execution by these players has been great. Protect the football. That has been a key element is making sure that with our defense that we have, if we protect the football and we score touchdowns, we’re always going to be in good shape. And then never get relaxed with the details. This is a detailed offense, and so just when you think you’re doing everything the right way, all of a sudden one little detail can hurt you. I think our coaching staff, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, all the guys (and) the players, they’re professionals.”

Q:&nbsp;On Commanders Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s influence on Patrick Mahomes during their time at Texas Tech.

NAGY:&nbsp;“Really really good stuff. I think that when you go back and you look at the amount of time that we invested in looking at Pat (Mahomes), you automatically right away go to who his coach is and what he did with him. I have so much respect for (Commanders Offensive Coordinator) Kliff Kingsbury as a person, as a coach, what he has done on the college level (and) professionally in the NFL also with (Commanders Head Coach) Dan Quinn. Coach Quinn has been great. From the head coaching side too, what he has done – that’s a separate deal from me I just really have a ton of respect for both of them (Dan Quinn and Kliff Kingsbury). What Kliff has done with Pat is really he used his strengths and just gave him confidence to be able to just be himself is what I saw the most. Just go cut it loose and it’s okay if you make a mistake, we’ll reel it in a little bit. He’s doing that now with his quarterback (Jayden Daniels) in Washington and I think that that’s a credit to Kliff.”

Q:&nbsp;On Mike Caliendo and Jaylon Moore subbing in and being just as effective.

HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“These guys, they work really hard in this building. You know, (I’m) proud of the guys in the room. They do a great job (and) everybody stays prepared. They both (Mike Calideno and Jaylon Moore) have done great jobs.”

Q:&nbsp;On the running game right now and if the momentum is going in the right direction.

HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“Yeah, definitely. It feels like we’re moving in the right direction. Obviously, there’s still things to clean up. Continuing to come in every week, improve on our technique, fundamentals all those things and execute on gameday. It feels like things are moving in the right direction. Feels like things are looking good, and just got to keep that up and be consistent with it.”

Q:&nbsp;What challenges do the Commanders defensive line bring?

HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“Really talented front. (Commanders DT Javon) Kinlaw (and) (Commanders DT Daron) Payne inside are really good players. They got really good edge rushers too so the whole front seven, it’s a really good front seven. We got our work cut out for us this week but everybody’s excited (and) everybody’s taking the right approach right now.”

Q:&nbsp;How does your body feel after the lower number of snaps against the Raiders?

JONES:&nbsp;“Life is good man, I can’t complain. Mentally staying sharp (and) the body feels really really good. Knock on wood. But I feel really really good heading into this week. We got a few guys banged up, got to get those guys healthy, but overall, I think we’re in good shape.”

Q:&nbsp;How have you been so successful against the run game?

JONES:&nbsp;“We’ve got a heck of a run game coordinator in (Defensive Line Coach) Joe Cullen who gives us books throughout the week to prepare us (and) keep us proactive in the run game. Whatever looks we’ve been seeing in the game we have been so familiar with it and we’ve done so many reps of it at practice to where it comes easy for us.”

Q:&nbsp;What are the keys against the Commanders?

Chiefs Coordinator QuotesOctober 24, 2025ASSISTANT HEAD COACH AND SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUBQ:&nbsp;Are communications with your son (Commanders Offensive Quality Control Coach Shane Toub) on a different level this week?TOUB:&nbsp;“This is the only week we don’t talk. We’ve talked about this before. He (Commanders Offensive Quality Control Coach Shane Toub) has been in the league now for seven years, and we went against him when he was in Chicago. This is kind of cool, I mean it’s always cool. My parents came into town last week, on Saturday to see the last game and they stayed all week to see this one too to see Shane (Toub). It’s fun. It’s a cool thing. My son coaches for the Commanders, for those who didn’t know (laughter).”Q:&nbsp;On the Commanders special teams unit.TOUB:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you, we do a ranking system that we use for motivation with the guys and stuff and they’re second in the league. They got unbelievable numbers. They score touchdowns, they cover great, and they’re very well coached. I mean (Commanders Special Teams Coordinator) Larry Izzo does a great job. He was a good player, and he’s even a better coach and I’m very impressed watching the tape (and) watching these guys. What you see on tape is what you see in the numbers, too. They’re good.”Q:&nbsp;How important was it for Harrison Butker to have a clean game?TOUB:&nbsp;“It was real important. We get one and now we try to get another one. He (Harrison Butker) had a really good practice this week. We’re still going but he’s good so far and he’s at a good place.”DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLOQ: On the shutout against the Raiders.SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That was special. I mean we enjoyed it for an hour (and) moved on (laughs). I think what gets lost a little bit in that is credit to the special teams, (they) didn’t give up any points, and the offense didn’t turn it over or have one of those. That’s part of it, and then a lot of credit to our guys (the defense). Then the other guys that I don’t want to get lost in all of that is somewhere in the fourth where we changed a lot of – those guys went in and did a nice job too. The Jack Cochrane’s and the Jeffrey Bassa’s and all the guys that went in there (and) Cooper McDonald. They were on point. We all remembered what happened in the Baltimore game where they had that long run. So, I think everybody was thinking about that. It’s a special thing. I’ll think more about it when the season is over. What I did tell the guys was, I hope that’s not the best game we play this year. That would be kind of nice, right?”Q: What’s the difference between preparing for this Washington team without Jayden Daniels?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That’s a great question and I’ll be perfectly frank; it didn’t change at all, and I’ll tell you why, I think they (Commanders) did a really good job for their team by getting a backup quarterback who I think fits exactly what their – it doesn’t feel like, sometimes we play a drop back quarterback and the backup is an athlete. We always got to talk about and maybe have a couple of reps in practice in case this happens. I don’t think they skip a beat in terms of what they’re doing offensively. I think (Offensive Coordinator) Kliff (Kingsbury) just runs the offense because he just knows the next guy in there and I got a lot of respect for (Commanders QB) Marcus (Mariota). I think he’s – 11 seasons in this league. (I) put a highlight tape on yesterday morning, first thing we started off with of just plays he’s had with his feet and with his arm. I think he fits this offense really really well.”Q: What have you seen from Leo Chenal over the last three years?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Leo (Chenal) is a key guy to what we do and what we’ve become because of how many things he can do. You guys have all seen it. He’s played linebacker then we put him at end, he’s gone in there and played tackle. Eventually probably have him out at corner or playing safety or something. The versatility of Leo, especially, and Drue (Tranquill) with the things that they can do have really helped us to kind of put things out there that are maybe a little bit unconventional at times. Leo has been terrific. He’s as valuable as anybody getting in there in key situations, we use him for a lot of different things.”OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR MATT NAGYQ:&nbsp;On the offensive line’s performance.NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s been good. It’s been really well. The guys are prepared. That’s part of the deal there is make sure that you’re prepared and make sure you understand your role and then a guy like (Mike) Caliendo comes in and does a great job stepping in last week. These guys are ready. They practice the right way and then when you have – really being good in the red zone last week, being great situationally (on) third and fourth down and then protecting the football you got to take advantage of that. We want to keep that going. We want to show – you also have to be careful, in my opinion of when you win, some of the stuff that you’re not doing right getting deodorized by winning. You got to make sure that you stay on top of that and on Monday when they come back in, you show them what we didn’t do right and how we need to make sure that just because we won, that’s not okay. We need to stay on top of that.”Q:&nbsp;What’s the challenge that you give the offense to keep raising the team’s floor and ceiling?NAGY:&nbsp;“To keep the execution at a high, right now, which it is. The execution by these players has been great. Protect the football. That has been a key element is making sure that with our defense that we have, if we protect the football and we score touchdowns, we’re always going to be in good shape. And then never get relaxed with the details. This is a detailed offense, and so just when you think you’re doing everything the right way, all of a sudden one little detail can hurt you. I think our coaching staff, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, all the guys (and) the players, they’re professionals.”Q:&nbsp;On Commanders Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s influence on Patrick Mahomes during their time at Texas Tech.NAGY:&nbsp;“Really really good stuff. I think that when you go back and you look at the amount of time that we invested in looking at Pat (Mahomes), you automatically right away go to who his coach is and what he did with him. I have so much respect for (Commanders Offensive Coordinator) Kliff Kingsbury as a person, as a coach, what he has done on the college level (and) professionally in the NFL also with (Commanders Head Coach) Dan Quinn. Coach Quinn has been great. From the head coaching side too, what he has done – that’s a separate deal from me I just really have a ton of respect for both of them (Dan Quinn and Kliff Kingsbury). What Kliff has done with Pat is really he used his strengths and just gave him confidence to be able to just be himself is what I saw the most. Just go cut it loose and it’s okay if you make a mistake, we’ll reel it in a little bit. He’s doing that now with his quarterback (Jayden Daniels) in Washington and I think that that’s a credit to Kliff.”Chiefs Player QuotesOctober 24, 2025C CREED HUMPHREYQ:&nbsp;On Mike Caliendo and Jaylon Moore subbing in and being just as effective.HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“These guys, they work really hard in this building. You know, (I’m) proud of the guys in the room. They do a great job (and) everybody stays prepared. They both (Mike Calideno and Jaylon Moore) have done great jobs.”Q:&nbsp;On the running game right now and if the momentum is going in the right direction.HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“Yeah, definitely. It feels like we’re moving in the right direction. Obviously, there’s still things to clean up. Continuing to come in every week, improve on our technique, fundamentals all those things and execute on gameday. It feels like things are moving in the right direction. Feels like things are looking good, and just got to keep that up and be consistent with it.”Q:&nbsp;What challenges do the Commanders defensive line bring?HUMPHREY:&nbsp;“Really talented front. (Commanders DT Javon) Kinlaw (and) (Commanders DT Daron) Payne inside are really good players. They got really good edge rushers too so the whole front seven, it’s a really good front seven. We got our work cut out for us this week but everybody’s excited (and) everybody’s taking the right approach right now.”DT CHRIS JONESQ:&nbsp;How does your body feel after the lower number of snaps against the Raiders?JONES:&nbsp;“Life is good man, I can’t complain. Mentally staying sharp (and) the body feels really really good. Knock on wood. But I feel really really good heading into this week. We got a few guys banged up, got to get those guys healthy, but overall, I think we’re in good shape.”Q:&nbsp;How have you been so successful against the run game?JONES:&nbsp;“We’ve got a heck of a run game coordinator in (Defensive Line Coach) Joe Cullen who gives us books throughout the week to prepare us (and) keep us proactive in the run game. Whatever looks we’ve been seeing in the game we have been so familiar with it and we’ve done so many reps of it at practice to where it comes easy for us.”Q:&nbsp;What are the keys against the Commanders?

Chiefs Quotes: 10-24-25

The week eight showdown between Southeast of Saline and Ellsworth has become a staple over the last four years, settling not only the league, but the district and home field for the playoffs.

This year’s meeting between the two is no exception, as the winner will be crowned king of the NCAA and of District 6.

Southeast has dominated this series, having won ten straight against the Bearcats, including a 44-8 rout in the most recent meeting.

If the Trojans can pull out one more regular-season victory, they can also extend their unreal run to an unprecedented six-straight years with a perfect regular season.

Ellsworth has put together another impressive campaign in their own right, and comes into this contest 5-2 with losses to Beloit and Hillsboro.

“Ellsworth plays physical, they run downhill to the football on defense, and they arrive angry,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We have to make sure we do a good job of blocking. Offensively, they do a nice job of running the football and sprinkle in enough pass to keep you on your toes, and they’re always coached well.”

Southeast will also have to overcome the loss of starting quarterback Gannon Jacobson, who will be sidelined for the rest of the year with a season-ending injury.

Despite that loss, Tiernan Ptacek has done an excellent job at quarterback all year, completing 28-40 passes for 552 yards, 7 touchdowns and just two picks, while adding 146 yards and four more scores on the ground.

“Tiernan has done a great job and he’s prepared as well as anyone has,” Gebhardt said. “He’s gotten half the reps in practice all season long and he’s gotten a lot of varsity snaps throughout his career. I feel very comfortable with what he can do.”

On the other side of the matchup, the Trojans will have to find an answer for star running back Tucker Goss, who has been a monster at running back this season, toting the rock 179 times for 1,424 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns.

“You have to get a lot of hats to the football, [Goss] is a tough kid to bring down so we need to play team defense and make sure he doesn’t get a head of steam going. We’re not going to completely stop him but we have to slow him down.”

This matchup will feature two of the best backs in the state, as on the other side, Grady Gebhardt has 1,436 scrimmage yards and 27 total touchdowns through seven weeks.

As always, this game will be streamed with live video on Salina Post, and can be heard on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM).

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe week eight showdown between Southeast of Saline and Ellsworth has become a staple over the last four years, settling not only the league, but the district and home field for the playoffs.This year’s meeting between the two is no exception, as the winner will be crowned king of the NCAA and of District 6.<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 has dominated this series, having won ten straight against the Bearcats, including a 44-8 rout in the most recent meeting.If the Trojans can pull out one more regular-season victory, they can also extend their unreal run to an unprecedented six-straight years with a perfect regular season.Ellsworth has put together another impressive campaign in their own right, and comes into this contest 5-2 with losses to Beloit and Hillsboro.“Ellsworth plays physical, they run downhill to the football on defense, and they arrive angry,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We have to make sure we do a good job of blocking. Offensively, they do a nice job of running the football and sprinkle in enough pass to keep you on your toes, and they’re always coached well.”Southeast will also have to overcome the loss of starting quarterback Gannon Jacobson, who will be sidelined for the rest of the year with a season-ending injury.Despite that loss, Tiernan Ptacek has done an excellent job at quarterback all year, completing 28-40 passes for 552 yards, 7 touchdowns and just two picks, while adding 146 yards and four more scores on the ground.“Tiernan has done a great job and he’s prepared as well as anyone has,” Gebhardt said. “He’s gotten half the reps in practice all season long and he’s gotten a lot of varsity snaps throughout his career. I feel very comfortable with what he can do.”On the other side of the matchup, the Trojans will have to find an answer for star running back Tucker Goss, who has been a monster at running back this season, toting the rock 179 times for 1,424 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns.“You have to get a lot of hats to the football, [Goss] is a tough kid to bring down so we need to play team defense and make sure he doesn’t get a head of steam going. We’re not going to completely stop him but we have to slow him down.”This matchup will feature two of the best backs in the state, as on the other side, Grady Gebhardt has 1,436 scrimmage yards and 27 total touchdowns through seven weeks.As always, this game will be streamed with live video on Salina Post, and can be heard on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM).You can watch the full broadcast of this game on demand any time below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_Gayju6uAGI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Trojans host Bearcats in district championship game

In week seven, the Sacred Heart football team solidified its first winning season in over a decade. In week eight, they’ll have an opportunity to add a district title to an unprecedented campaign.

The Knights quickly erased the damage of an 0-2 start, rattling off five-straight victories to enter the final week of the regular season 5-2.

To achieve this feat, they’ll have to take down another program on a similar run in Belleville.

Republic County comes into this contest at 6-1, having locked up their first winning season since 2016.

With six wins, this is already the best season in Republic County’s brief history, and the Buffaloes will be eager to add to it on Friday night.

The Knights have dominated this series historically, and are 16-3 in games against the Buffs, including wins in the last three contests.

Both teams feature a similar schedule this season, with a loss to Ellsworth, and wins over Bennington, Herington, and Valley Heights.&nbsp;

Slowing the trio of quarterback Kash Henke, tailback Nick Kendall, and star wideout Aden Morris will be a focal point for the Knights tonight, but if they can play their new brand of defense they should have an excellent change to ride a six-game win streak into the playoffs.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostIn week seven, the Sacred Heart football team solidified its first winning season in over a decade. In week eight, they’ll have an opportunity to add a district title to an unprecedented campaign.The Knights quickly erased the damage of an 0-2 start, rattling off five-straight victories to enter the final week of the regular season 5-2.<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>To achieve this feat, they’ll have to take down another program on a similar run in Belleville.Republic County comes into this contest at 6-1, having locked up their first winning season since 2016.With six wins, this is already the best season in Republic County’s brief history, and the Buffaloes will be eager to add to it on Friday night.The Knights have dominated this series historically, and are 16-3 in games against the Buffs, including wins in the last three contests.Both teams feature a similar schedule this season, with a loss to Ellsworth, and wins over Bennington, Herington, and Valley Heights.&nbsp;Slowing the trio of quarterback Kash Henke, tailback Nick Kendall, and star wideout Aden Morris will be a focal point for the Knights tonight, but if they can play their new brand of defense they should have an excellent change to ride a six-game win streak into the playoffs.You can watch the full broadcast of this game on demand any time below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wZHHwEJlLMM"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Knights travel to Republic County to decide district title

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels&nbsp;was named to the Manning Award Watch List, the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced on Thursday.

The Manning Award was created by the Allstate Sugar Bowl in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. It is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting.

Daniels has had an outstanding 2025 season, completing 130-of-186 passing for 1,752 yards and 18 touchdowns. Through seven games, Daniels' 18 passing touchdowns rank tied for sixth in college football and are tied for a career-high in a single season. Daniels’ passing efficiency of 178.8 leads the Big 12 Conference and is 4th in the nation this season.

Over his career, Daniels ranks among the best quarterbacks in program history, completing 666-of-1,060 passing for 8,503 yards and 63 touchdowns, all of which rank second in school history. Daniels has also rushed for 1,240 career rushing yards and 20 career rushing touchdowns.

Prior to the 2025 season, Daniels was named to the Walter Camp Award Preseason Watch List and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Watch List.

Not only has Daniels been impressive on the field, Daniels was recently announced as 1-of-16 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, recognizing the nation's best football scholar-athlete – all divisions and the NAIA – based on combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.

Daniels was added to the Manning Award Watch List on Thursday, after releasing their initial preseason watch list on August 14. Finalists will be selected prior to the postseason and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels&nbsp;was named to the Manning Award Watch List, the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced on Thursday.The Manning Award was created by the Allstate Sugar Bowl in honor of the college football accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning. It is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting.Daniels has had an outstanding 2025 season, completing 130-of-186 passing for 1,752 yards and 18 touchdowns. Through seven games, Daniels' 18 passing touchdowns rank tied for sixth in college football and are tied for a career-high in a single season. Daniels’ passing efficiency of 178.8 leads the Big 12 Conference and is 4th in the nation this season.Over his career, Daniels ranks among the best quarterbacks in program history, completing 666-of-1,060 passing for 8,503 yards and 63 touchdowns, all of which rank second in school history. Daniels has also rushed for 1,240 career rushing yards and 20 career rushing touchdowns.Prior to the 2025 season, Daniels was named to the Walter Camp Award Preseason Watch List and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Watch List.Not only has Daniels been impressive on the field, Daniels was recently announced as 1-of-16 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, recognizing the nation's best football scholar-athlete – all divisions and the NAIA – based on combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.Daniels was added to the Manning Award Watch List on Thursday, after releasing their initial preseason watch list on August 14. Finalists will be selected prior to the postseason and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Jalon Daniels Named to Manning Award Watch List

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Louisville Slugger&nbsp;this morning announced American League finalists for the 2025 Silver Slugger Awards, including four Royals: catcher&nbsp;Salvador Perez, first baseman&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino, shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Maikel Garcia, who is a finalist for the Silver Slugger Utility Award.

The Royals are one of three American League teams with four finalists, along with the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays. The winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 7.

Finalists and winners are determined by a vote of American League Managers and coaches who cast ballots for players at each position in their league. Each AL team receives four votes; the Manager and three coaches of the team’s choice. Votes are based on a combination of offensive statistics including OPS, OPS+, home runs, RBI, batting average, total bases and runs, as well as the Managers’ and coaches’ general impressions of a player’s overall offensive value.

Perez is one of three finalists among American League catchers, joining Seattle’s&nbsp;Cal Raleigh&nbsp;and the Athletics&nbsp;Shea Langeliers. Pasquantino joins Toronto’s&nbsp;Vladimir Guerrero Jr.&nbsp;and the Athletics&nbsp;Nick Kurtz&nbsp;as finalists among AL first basemen. Witt Jr. is one of three finalists among AL shortstops, along with Toronto’s&nbsp;Bo Bichette&nbsp;and Houston’s&nbsp;Jeremy Peña. Garcia is one of three AL players up for the Utility Award, along with Detroit’s&nbsp;Zach McKinstry&nbsp;and New York’s&nbsp;Ben Rice.

Perez, 35, recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games in 2025. The 30 home runs were the 2nd-highest total of his career, and it marked his second straight season with at least 100 RBI. He was the second catcher (min. 50% games at the position) to record 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), joining&nbsp;Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI at age 37 in 1985.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Louisville Slugger&nbsp;this morning announced American League finalists for the 2025 Silver Slugger Awards, including four Royals: catcher&nbsp;Salvador Perez, first baseman&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino, shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Maikel Garcia, who is a finalist for the Silver Slugger Utility Award.The Royals are one of three American League teams with four finalists, along with the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays. The winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 7.Finalists and winners are determined by a vote of American League Managers and coaches who cast ballots for players at each position in their league. Each AL team receives four votes; the Manager and three coaches of the team’s choice. Votes are based on a combination of offensive statistics including OPS, OPS+, home runs, RBI, batting average, total bases and runs, as well as the Managers’ and coaches’ general impressions of a player’s overall offensive value.Perez is one of three finalists among American League catchers, joining Seattle’s&nbsp;Cal Raleigh&nbsp;and the Athletics&nbsp;Shea Langeliers. Pasquantino joins Toronto’s&nbsp;Vladimir Guerrero Jr.&nbsp;and the Athletics&nbsp;Nick Kurtz&nbsp;as finalists among AL first basemen. Witt Jr. is one of three finalists among AL shortstops, along with Toronto’s&nbsp;Bo Bichette&nbsp;and Houston’s&nbsp;Jeremy Peña. Garcia is one of three AL players up for the Utility Award, along with Detroit’s&nbsp;Zach McKinstry&nbsp;and New York’s&nbsp;Ben Rice.Perez, 35, recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games in 2025. The 30 home runs were the 2nd-highest total of his career, and it marked his second straight season with at least 100 RBI. He was the second catcher (min. 50% games at the position) to record 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), joining&nbsp;Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI at age 37 in 1985.Among AL catchers in 2025 (min. 50% games played at the position), he ranked 1st in doubles (35), 2nd in hits (141), extra-base hits (65) and RBI and 3rd in HR.Salvy has been a finalist for a Silver Slugger Award in 11 of the last 12 seasons since 2014, with the only exception being 2019, when he missed the entire season due to injury. He’s a five-time Silver Slugger winner, the most in Royals history, and is one of nine catchers to win at least five Silver Slugger Awards.Pasquantino is a Silver Slugger finalist for the first time after setting career highs across the board in 2025, while ranking among the AL leaders at first base in extra-base hits (66, 1st), RBI (113, 1st), hits (164, 2nd), doubles (33, 2nd) and HR (32, 2nd).His 113 RBI ranked 3rd among all AL players, trailing only Raleigh (125) and&nbsp;Aaron Judge&nbsp;(114). In 64 games after the All-Star break, Pasquantino had 57 RBI, most in the American League. For the season, he led Major League Baseball with 32 go-ahead RBI, ahead of Judge (31).Witt Jr. is a finalist for the third straight season and won his first Silver Slugger Award last year. In 2025, he led the Majors in hits (184) for the second consecutive season, becoming the first player to accomplish that feat (excluding 2020) since&nbsp;Whit Merrifield&nbsp;did it for the Royals from 2018-19. Witt Jr. also led the Majors with 47 doubles this season.Witt Jr. recorded at least 1 hit in 127 games, 10 more than&nbsp;Shohei Ohtani&nbsp;and&nbsp;Elly De La Cruz&nbsp;(117) for the most in the Majors. He had the longest hit streak in the Majors in 2025 (22 games) and had hit streaks of 18 and 14 games.Among AL shortstops, Witt Jr. ranked 1st in hits, doubles, extra-base hits (76), triples (6), runs (99), stolen bases (38), slugging percentage (.501) and OPS (.852), and he ranked 3rd in HR (23) and RBI (88).Witt Jr. was one of two players in the Majors in 2025 to record at least 75 extra-base hits and 30 stolen bases, along with&nbsp;Corbin Carroll. He became the first player in Major League history this season to record at least 20 HR and 30 stolen bases in each of his first four seasons.Garcia, 25, is a finalist for the Utility Award, which recognizes the top offensive performer who plays multiple positions, a category that was created in 2022.