LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks will play in front of a sold-out crowd in their season opener and first game at the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, as Kansas Athletics announced a sellout for Saturday’s matchup against Fresno State.

Kickoff between Kansas and Fresno State is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CT with the game nationally televised on FOX. Capacity for David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is set at 41,525 for the 2025 season.

Kansas, in partnership with Legends sales and service, has now sold out at least one game in each of its last four seasons, including its 10th&nbsp;sellout over that span. Kansas has eight sellouts at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium since the start of the 2022 season, and two sellouts at Children’s Mercy Park during the 2024 season.

Fans who purchased tickets for Saturday’s game are encouraged to download their mobile tickets prior to arriving to the stadium. Fans still looking to attend are encouraged to visit SeatGeek, the official secondary ticket partner of Kansas Athletics. Fans can visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth" target="_blank">David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium fan guide</a>&nbsp;for pertinent game information, including where to park and tailgate, a map of the new layout and much more.

Saturday’s game vs. Fresno State marks the first game played at the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the completion of Phase 1 of the Gateway District, a transformative, multi-phased development that redefines the campus's northern entrance.

Among the changes fans can expect on gameday include a new seating bowl on the west and north sides of the stadium with improved sightlines and increased fan proximity to the field, along with expanded concourse circulation, upgraded accessibility, all new concessions offerings, diverse new premium seating options and an overall more comfortable gameday experience.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks will play in front of a sold-out crowd in their season opener and first game at the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, as Kansas Athletics announced a sellout for Saturday’s matchup against Fresno State.Kickoff between Kansas and Fresno State is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CT with the game nationally televised on FOX. Capacity for David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is set at 41,525 for the 2025 season.Kansas, in partnership with Legends sales and service, has now sold out at least one game in each of its last four seasons, including its 10th&nbsp;sellout over that span. Kansas has eight sellouts at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium since the start of the 2022 season, and two sellouts at Children’s Mercy Park during the 2024 season.Fans who purchased tickets for Saturday’s game are encouraged to download their mobile tickets prior to arriving to the stadium. Fans still looking to attend are encouraged to visit SeatGeek, the official secondary ticket partner of Kansas Athletics. Fans can visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/feature/the-booth" target="_blank">David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium fan guide</a>&nbsp;for pertinent game information, including where to park and tailgate, a map of the new layout and much more.Saturday’s game vs. Fresno State marks the first game played at the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the completion of Phase 1 of the Gateway District, a transformative, multi-phased development that redefines the campus's northern entrance.Among the changes fans can expect on gameday include a new seating bowl on the west and north sides of the stadium with improved sightlines and increased fan proximity to the field, along with expanded concourse circulation, upgraded accessibility, all new concessions offerings, diverse new premium seating options and an overall more comfortable gameday experience.

Kansas Athletics Announces Sellout for Season Opener vs. Fresno State

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as injuries go, (Jake) Briningstool will be out, (Jack) Cochrane (will be) out, (Ethan) Driskell (will be out), Mike Edwards (will be) out, Nazeeh (Johnson), Omarr (Norman-Lott) and (Jalen) Royals (will be out). Everything went good today. Guys worked today, (we) had a good practice today. Today was like a Friday practice, (it) simulated what an in-season Friday looks like. Again, (a) good day with a little bit of heat out there. I saw a lot of you guys go inside (laughter), time is yours.”

Q: Do you have any idea on how much playing time the starters will get?

REID:&nbsp;“I’m just going to play it by ear. They’re going to start. They will start it off and then we will see how it goes from there.”

Q: How important is it for you to see Kristian Fulton play as he is working back from his injury?

REID:&nbsp;“We will see how that rolls with him (Kristian Fulton). Then we will see how he feels and go from there.”

Q: How much do you want to see from Hollywood Brown?

REID:&nbsp;“I’m just going to play that by ear. I’m going to see how he (Hollywood Brown) does through warmups and all of that and we will just kind of go from there. This is day by day right there, so I don’t want no step backwards on that (injury).”

Q: What has gone into preseason playing time with the starters and the difference between playing three games instead of four?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, there’s just a little bit of a longer wait. Here at the – in between this game and the next game. So, I’d rather give the guys a little bit more time in this game. So, the timing gets a little closer to when we get to our game – (our) in-season game.”

Q:&nbsp;What is your message to the team as they approach the third preseason game and roster cut down day?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, so everybody can’t make the team, and they know that, I tell them that day one. (I tell them to) just make our job hard. Make it hard for (General Manager Brett) Veach and his crew and the coaches to get rid of them. That’s how they’ve gone about their business. I haven’t seen guys counting numbers and lines and doing all of that stuff. They have come out and worked hard, for the first guy to the last guy and I have appreciated that. Then it’s a tough day, that’s not part of the job you like. But inevitably you got to almost cut half a team. So, that’s not an easy thing.”

Q: Is it easier or harder to do it all at once?

REID: “Yeah, I think it’s, I think it’s okay. Yeah, I think it’s okay. I think it gives guys maybe a better opportunity to go on, especially the way these practice squads are set up now. You got a lot of numbers there that you can work with. So, you get another look, potentially at the guys through practice there. So, I think it’s a good thing. See what their attitudes are, especially if they know they’re right on that border. See how they handle all of that.”

Q: Is there a little bit of the feeling that everybody is feeling drained but still trying to push through camp?

REID: “Yeah, so you know, we had two great days, and so the third day I just want to make sure they push through it. So, they end up doing it, it was a hot one out there today. And so, you know a little encouragement always helps.”

CHENAL:&nbsp;“Yeah, man. He’s (Travis Kelce) a special dude. When you talk about the greats but also being a great person – it’s an honor even being his teammate, and to call him a friend is pretty cool too. And then having that memory that I’ll share with my family for generations to come is huge and something I’ll always look back and smile on.”

Q: Even though these are preseason games, do you want to have a better showing this week than you did in Seattle?

CHENAL:&nbsp;“Oh yeah. The whole team felt it. Coaches, players, all of us are pretty upset with ourselves following that game. The best we can do is remember how we felt after that game and prepare ourselves (as) best as we can here and have some good momentum going forward.”

Q: How do you see your role expanding after training camp this year?

CHENAL:&nbsp;“I got a decent amount of opportunity last year, and maybe it’s some more situations regarding the quarterback – spying (on) the quarterback. I personally need to do a lot better job of getting to the quarterback when I’m put in those positions on the edge, or whatever.&nbsp; Because they trust me, (and) they want me to be out there, but they want to be able to say like, ‘ok, if we’re going to take out an edge rusher that we trust, is he going to do just as good or better?’ So that’s something that I’ve really pushed myself on and (have) taken that into account.”

Q:&nbsp;What has impressed you most about Tyquan Thornton and Jalen Royals?

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“This offense is not an easy offense to learn, you know coming here – especially my first time (and) especially as a young guy coming from a college playbook where the hashes are a lot wider and the plays are a lot simpler. For Jalen (Royals), him just being who he is and being able to be coachable throughout those times and seeing Tyquan (Thornton) grow. I’ve been with him when he was with the Patriots, so seeing him come there to here and seeing (him) open it up and stretch the field has helped us out a lot, so it’s pretty nice to see that and these are coming along.”

Q:&nbsp;On him mentoring the young guys on the sideline.

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“I think naturally, I’m a people’s person, so I like to help out the guys, especially learning plays (and) studying plays. For me, I remember when I was a rookie and some of the older guys took time out of their day – who had a family, who had things going on (and for me to) just spend time with them. Throughout camp, I would spend an hour after practice or after meetings with the younger guys to try and get them to get their plays down because this is their livelihood. They’ve been playing football since they were kids, so for them, the more they can get out of a veteran, it’s nice to help them out. I know it’s a long way to go not just for them, but you know for the future. It is very important to help out those guys.”

Q:&nbsp;On how he has sensed Patrick Mahomes take it to another level.

SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“I would say definitely him (Patrick Mahomes) coming into this season, you can tell he’s a lot lighter (with) mobility. You can see his next level of seeing the next play, seeing the play ahead and kind of visualizing it has helped us out a lot. We’re able to see coverages, more (and) so far ahead because we’re on the same page as him. And I think that’s just more so being around with Trav (Travis Kelce) too. When you see a guy like Trav, he’s still doing it at a high level. (With) How old he is, it’s cool to see that now all the young guys kind of rally around that, and kind of rally around Pat (Patrick Mahomes) and you just see like: ‘Cool, they’re taking it to the next level’ and it just brings everybody else to the next level. Those guys (Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce) set the bar really really high here and I think that’s awesome. I always say when you have guys like the veteran players (that are) working hard every day, showing up every day, putting in the work and putting in the effort, it just makes the younger guys kind of just follow and that becomes the expectation here so every day you got to show up and work every day, so, on the field and off the field you can see that (Patrick Mahomes’ level increase) a lot. They are definitely taking it to the next level.”

Q:&nbsp;What would you tell fans to look for in this upcoming game?

HICKS:&nbsp;“Definitely effort, I think that is one thing that we always preach on, something that we live on. So, definitely effort, and you know, just being in the right spots, we (have) got to do our job, and just align right and play our gameplan.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you see a step up this time in the coaches’ approach to this game?

HICKS:&nbsp;“Most definitely. With the running game, we know we’re going to shut that down. I feel like this week definitely. With Seattle, you know that wasn’t a pretty good performance on the defensive end, so we’re going to definitely fix that.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you enjoy moving from role to role every play?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesAugust 20, 2025OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as injuries go, (Jake) Briningstool will be out, (Jack) Cochrane (will be) out, (Ethan) Driskell (will be out), Mike Edwards (will be) out, Nazeeh (Johnson), Omarr (Norman-Lott) and (Jalen) Royals (will be out). Everything went good today. Guys worked today, (we) had a good practice today. Today was like a Friday practice, (it) simulated what an in-season Friday looks like. Again, (a) good day with a little bit of heat out there. I saw a lot of you guys go inside (laughter), time is yours.”Q: Do you have any idea on how much playing time the starters will get?REID:&nbsp;“I’m just going to play it by ear. They’re going to start. They will start it off and then we will see how it goes from there.”Q: How important is it for you to see Kristian Fulton play as he is working back from his injury?REID:&nbsp;“We will see how that rolls with him (Kristian Fulton). Then we will see how he feels and go from there.”Q: How much do you want to see from Hollywood Brown?REID:&nbsp;“I’m just going to play that by ear. I’m going to see how he (Hollywood Brown) does through warmups and all of that and we will just kind of go from there. This is day by day right there, so I don’t want no step backwards on that (injury).”Q: What has gone into preseason playing time with the starters and the difference between playing three games instead of four?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, there’s just a little bit of a longer wait. Here at the – in between this game and the next game. So, I’d rather give the guys a little bit more time in this game. So, the timing gets a little closer to when we get to our game – (our) in-season game.”Q:&nbsp;What is your message to the team as they approach the third preseason game and roster cut down day?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, so everybody can’t make the team, and they know that, I tell them that day one. (I tell them to) just make our job hard. Make it hard for (General Manager Brett) Veach and his crew and the coaches to get rid of them. That’s how they’ve gone about their business. I haven’t seen guys counting numbers and lines and doing all of that stuff. They have come out and worked hard, for the first guy to the last guy and I have appreciated that. Then it’s a tough day, that’s not part of the job you like. But inevitably you got to almost cut half a team. So, that’s not an easy thing.”Q: Is it easier or harder to do it all at once?REID: “Yeah, I think it’s, I think it’s okay. Yeah, I think it’s okay. I think it gives guys maybe a better opportunity to go on, especially the way these practice squads are set up now. You got a lot of numbers there that you can work with. So, you get another look, potentially at the guys through practice there. So, I think it’s a good thing. See what their attitudes are, especially if they know they’re right on that border. See how they handle all of that.”Q: Is there a little bit of the feeling that everybody is feeling drained but still trying to push through camp?REID: “Yeah, so you know, we had two great days, and so the third day I just want to make sure they push through it. So, they end up doing it, it was a hot one out there today. And so, you know a little encouragement always helps.”Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 20, 2025LB LEO CHENALQ: On Travis Kelce.CHENAL:&nbsp;“Yeah, man. He’s (Travis Kelce) a special dude. When you talk about the greats but also being a great person – it’s an honor even being his teammate, and to call him a friend is pretty cool too. And then having that memory that I’ll share with my family for generations to come is huge and something I’ll always look back and smile on.”Q: Even though these are preseason games, do you want to have a better showing this week than you did in Seattle?CHENAL:&nbsp;“Oh yeah. The whole team felt it. Coaches, players, all of us are pretty upset with ourselves following that game. The best we can do is remember how we felt after that game and prepare ourselves (as) best as we can here and have some good momentum going forward.”Q: How do you see your role expanding after training camp this year?CHENAL:&nbsp;“I got a decent amount of opportunity last year, and maybe it’s some more situations regarding the quarterback – spying (on) the quarterback. I personally need to do a lot better job of getting to the quarterback when I’m put in those positions on the edge, or whatever.&nbsp; Because they trust me, (and) they want me to be out there, but they want to be able to say like, ‘ok, if we’re going to take out an edge rusher that we trust, is he going to do just as good or better?’ So that’s something that I’ve really pushed myself on and (have) taken that into account.”WR JUJU SMITH-SCHUSTERQ:&nbsp;What has impressed you most about Tyquan Thornton and Jalen Royals?SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“This offense is not an easy offense to learn, you know coming here – especially my first time (and) especially as a young guy coming from a college playbook where the hashes are a lot wider and the plays are a lot simpler. For Jalen (Royals), him just being who he is and being able to be coachable throughout those times and seeing Tyquan (Thornton) grow. I’ve been with him when he was with the Patriots, so seeing him come there to here and seeing (him) open it up and stretch the field has helped us out a lot, so it’s pretty nice to see that and these are coming along.”Q:&nbsp;On him mentoring the young guys on the sideline.SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“I think naturally, I’m a people’s person, so I like to help out the guys, especially learning plays (and) studying plays. For me, I remember when I was a rookie and some of the older guys took time out of their day – who had a family, who had things going on (and for me to) just spend time with them. Throughout camp, I would spend an hour after practice or after meetings with the younger guys to try and get them to get their plays down because this is their livelihood. They’ve been playing football since they were kids, so for them, the more they can get out of a veteran, it’s nice to help them out. I know it’s a long way to go not just for them, but you know for the future. It is very important to help out those guys.”Q:&nbsp;On how he has sensed Patrick Mahomes take it to another level.SMITH-SCHUSTER:&nbsp;“I would say definitely him (Patrick Mahomes) coming into this season, you can tell he’s a lot lighter (with) mobility. You can see his next level of seeing the next play, seeing the play ahead and kind of visualizing it has helped us out a lot. We’re able to see coverages, more (and) so far ahead because we’re on the same page as him. And I think that’s just more so being around with Trav (Travis Kelce) too. When you see a guy like Trav, he’s still doing it at a high level. (With) How old he is, it’s cool to see that now all the young guys kind of rally around that, and kind of rally around Pat (Patrick Mahomes) and you just see like: ‘Cool, they’re taking it to the next level’ and it just brings everybody else to the next level. Those guys (Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce) set the bar really really high here and I think that’s awesome. I always say when you have guys like the veteran players (that are) working hard every day, showing up every day, putting in the work and putting in the effort, it just makes the younger guys kind of just follow and that becomes the expectation here so every day you got to show up and work every day, so, on the field and off the field you can see that (Patrick Mahomes’ level increase) a lot. They are definitely taking it to the next level.”DB JADEN HICKSQ:&nbsp;What would you tell fans to look for in this upcoming game?HICKS:&nbsp;“Definitely effort, I think that is one thing that we always preach on, something that we live on. So, definitely effort, and you know, just being in the right spots, we (have) got to do our job, and just align right and play our gameplan.”Q:&nbsp;Do you see a step up this time in the coaches’ approach to this game?HICKS:&nbsp;“Most definitely. With the running game, we know we’re going to shut that down. I feel like this week definitely. With Seattle, you know that wasn’t a pretty good performance on the defensive end, so we’re going to definitely fix that.”Q:&nbsp;Do you enjoy moving from role to role every play?

Chiefs Quotes: 8-20-25

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas senior center Bryce Foster was named to the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Preseason Watch List, which recognizes the nation's outstanding Division I college offensive player who was either born in Texas, graduated from a Texas high school or played at a Texas-based junior college or four-year institution.

Foster, a redshirt senior from Katy, Texas, was recently named to the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List for the most outstanding center in NCAA Division I College Football and the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List, awarded to the nation’s top interior lineman. Foster was also selected to the Preseason All-Big 12 team.

Foster started all 12 games and helped pave the way for 211.4 rushing yards per game and allowed just 10 sacks as a unit in 2024. Following the 2024 football season, Foster earned Second Team All-America honors in the shot put at the 2025 NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships, as part of the Kansas track and field team.

Foster arrived at Kansas following three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, starting 28 games and being named to the 2021 SEC All-Freshman Team, 2021 FWAA Freshman All-America Team and the 2021 The Athletic Freshman All-America First Team.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas senior center Bryce Foster was named to the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Preseason Watch List, which recognizes the nation's outstanding Division I college offensive player who was either born in Texas, graduated from a Texas high school or played at a Texas-based junior college or four-year institution.Foster, a redshirt senior from Katy, Texas, was recently named to the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List for the most outstanding center in NCAA Division I College Football and the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List, awarded to the nation’s top interior lineman. Foster was also selected to the Preseason All-Big 12 team.Foster started all 12 games and helped pave the way for 211.4 rushing yards per game and allowed just 10 sacks as a unit in 2024. Following the 2024 football season, Foster earned Second Team All-America honors in the shot put at the 2025 NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships, as part of the Kansas track and field team.Foster arrived at Kansas following three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, starting 28 games and being named to the 2021 SEC All-Freshman Team, 2021 FWAA Freshman All-America Team and the 2021 The Athletic Freshman All-America First Team.

Bryce Foster Named to Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Preseason Watch List

MIDLAND, Texas (August 19, 2025)—Ben Ross totals four RBI in a 10-4 Wichita Wind Surge win over the Midland RockHounds at Momentum Bank Ballpark. 

The Wind Surge scored six runs in the first and nine straight to start the night on the way to winning their fourth in a row.&nbsp;Wichita sent 11 men to the plate and put up a six-spot in the top of the first on five hits to open the ballgame. 

For the big blows, Ross hit his 11th home run of the year, a two-run shot, and Jake Rucker drove in a pair on a double that stayed fair inside of third and trickled toward the left field corner.&nbsp;Three more runners scored for the Wind Surge over the next two frames on a sacrifice fly by Ross, an infield single by Rubel Cespedes, and a bases-loaded walk from Ross for a 9-0 lead. Ross attained all four of his RBI over his first three plate appearances.&nbsp;

Tommy White and Clark Elliott hit consecutive RBI singles to right field to get Midland on the scoreboard in the home half of the third. 

Brayan Buelvas belted a line drive homer into the RockHounds bullpen in right field in the following frame to make the score 9-3 Wichita through four innings.&nbsp;

Maddux Houghton, who made his Wind Surge debut as a pinch runner in the top of the first, tallied his first RBI with Wichita on a knock to left center in the top of the seventh.&nbsp;

Brayan Buelvas brought a run in on a sac fly to center in the bottom of the eighth to make the score 10-4 Wichita. That would be the eventual final as Mike Paredes gave up just two hits and two walks with a strikeout over three innings to notch his third save of the year.

Jaylen Nowlin earned his fourth win of 2025 with the Wind Surge after giving up an earned run on two hits and a walk over an inning and two-thirds following Wichita starter Ricky Castro.&nbsp;

Wichita continues the series with the Midland RockHounds on August 20 at 6:30 PM at Momentum Bank Ballpark. The Wind Surge return to Equity Bank Park for their final homestand of the season, starting with a series against the Arkansas Travelers on August 26. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/" target="_blank">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/" target="_blank">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets" target="_blank">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.

MIDLAND, Texas (August 19, 2025)—Ben Ross totals four RBI in a 10-4 Wichita Wind Surge win over the Midland RockHounds at Momentum Bank Ballpark. The Wind Surge scored six runs in the first and nine straight to start the night on the way to winning their fourth in a row.&nbsp;Wichita sent 11 men to the plate and put up a six-spot in the top of the first on five hits to open the ballgame. For the big blows, Ross hit his 11th home run of the year, a two-run shot, and Jake Rucker drove in a pair on a double that stayed fair inside of third and trickled toward the left field corner.&nbsp;Three more runners scored for the Wind Surge over the next two frames on a sacrifice fly by Ross, an infield single by Rubel Cespedes, and a bases-loaded walk from Ross for a 9-0 lead. Ross attained all four of his RBI over his first three plate appearances.&nbsp;Tommy White and Clark Elliott hit consecutive RBI singles to right field to get Midland on the scoreboard in the home half of the third. Brayan Buelvas belted a line drive homer into the RockHounds bullpen in right field in the following frame to make the score 9-3 Wichita through four innings.&nbsp;Maddux Houghton, who made his Wind Surge debut as a pinch runner in the top of the first, tallied his first RBI with Wichita on a knock to left center in the top of the seventh.&nbsp;Brayan Buelvas brought a run in on a sac fly to center in the bottom of the eighth to make the score 10-4 Wichita. That would be the eventual final as Mike Paredes gave up just two hits and two walks with a strikeout over three innings to notch his third save of the year.Jaylen Nowlin earned his fourth win of 2025 with the Wind Surge after giving up an earned run on two hits and a walk over an inning and two-thirds following Wichita starter Ricky Castro.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Kala’i Rosario is up to a 16 Game On Base Streak.</li><li>Jacob Wosinski strikes out three men over two two-hit innings of relief.</li><li>Maddux Houghton wraps up his Wind Surge debut with a 4-for-5 line, along with three runs and an RBI.</li><li>Ben Ross collects four RBI for the second time this year with Wichita.</li><li>Five hitters in the Wind Surge lineup finish with multiple hits.</li>
 </ul>Wichita continues the series with the Midland RockHounds on August 20 at 6:30 PM at Momentum Bank Ballpark. The Wind Surge return to Equity Bank Park for their final homestand of the season, starting with a series against the Arkansas Travelers on August 26. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/" target="_blank">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/" target="_blank">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets" target="_blank">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.

Wichita Scores Six First Inning Runs, Wins Fourth Straight Game

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q: What are your thoughts on the rookies’ special teams performance against the Seahawks?&nbsp;

TOUB:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean, I thought (Jalen) Royals did a really nice job. I thought he showed us something, he almost broke that one (a kickoff return), I mean the kicker just tripped him up right at the end. That was good to see, young players showing up (and) making plays. I thought (Ashton) Gillotte really played great on special teams. He had three tackles on special teams, he had a knockdown block. He’s an animal out there, so I’m excited about him as another rookie. (Jeffrey) Bassa (is) still a work in progress. He keeps working at it and keeps getting better. The thing with him is not the coverage, it’s the blocking. It’s just really technical. Athletically he’s everything you want; it’s just about getting the technique down on blocking.”

TOUB:&nbsp;“His (Skyy Moore) punt-return ability and kick-return ability has really gotten better over the years, and it showed right there. I mean, he’s solid there, on that part of it. The other part is just the mental, I think, with him, and it’s just about getting over that hump. He’s definitely an NFL player, whether he’s on our team or not on our team. I think the return helped him. He’s a good football player.”

Q: Are there any more holds and blocks in the back with the new kickoff rules?

TOUB:&nbsp;“I haven’t noticed that, but there are a lot more returns. There’s going to be more returns, no question. Nobody’s just going to kick a touchback and allow them to (start at) the 35-yard line, that’s a big advantage. So, you want to take your chances with a good kick and then try to get it on the ground to try to get them tackled inside the 30 (yard line). I mean, you’re saving a big chunk of yardage right there. So, teams are going to do that, and I just think it’s going to increase the importance of the whole play, either kickoff or kick return. Will there be more penalties? Probably. A little bit, but teams are going to get better at it and figure things out as we go. The team that figures it out early is going to be the team that has success early, so hopefully that’s us.”

Q: Where are you trying to push Tyquan Thornton right now?

TOUB:&nbsp;“(I have) got to find a role for him (Tyquan Thornton). He’s definitely found a role on the offense; I don’t think there’s any question about that. He showed up there, (and) Pat (Patrick Mahomes) has a lot of confidence in him, and all (of) the offensive coaches have confidence in him. Now I’ve got to find a role for him on (special) teams, whether he’s going to play gunner, he’s going to be a kick returner, he’s going to play end on punt return. Is he going to play a two on the kickoff? He’s got to play somewhere being a third, fourth, or fifth receiver – those guys got to play on special teams because they’re taking up roster spots. But the thing about it is he’s a slight guy, so he’s got to use his speed, he’s got to use his quickness to get around people. He’s not going to run over anybody like (Ashton) Gillotte. We just got to find a role for him (Tyquan Thornton). He’s open to it, (and) he’s been great, and he’s getting better and better at gunner. He’s showing up a little bit more.”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

Q:&nbsp;What were your biggest takeaways from the Seattle game?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Yeah, I didn’t like the way we played the run. I’ll tell you what the biggest takeaway was, and I’m going to give (Seahawks Head Coach) Mike Macdonald and his staff up there a lot of credit, it just felt like they came out with the intent to prove to the Kansas City Chiefs, and they did.&nbsp; They were coming out of the huddle fast; they were running right at us. I’m just not sure we were ready for that, and shame on us. But I think our guys will be ready to play (some) good football this week.”

Q:&nbsp;On the defensive line rotation and the loss of Felix Anudike-Uzomah.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Well, it hurts to lose anybody, and certainly Felix (Anudike-Uzomah) who we were counting on in certain ways, right, and in certain roles. We’ll see who steps up and takes that role. I mean, it’ll become numbers, and (General Manager) Brett (Veach) does a great job with that. And (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, you know, some years I know we’ve kept five ends, and then it’s four, and then maybe I think sometimes we kept six. But it might be one less tackle or one less linebacker. So, when it gets down to the end there it’ll be who’s the best 53 or however that works out. But you know in Felix’s case, the next defensive end is there. Malik (Herring) got an opportunity to jump up in there. And you know, Ashton’s (Gillotte) been playing good football, so we’ll see how it pans out.”

Q:&nbsp;What do you expect out of your guys on Friday?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I’m really hoping that we come out, you know with a purpose early on. I think (Head Coach) Andy (Reid) has stated that our guys are going to play a little bit. I don’t know how far that will go, but for as long as we have the so-called guys out there, that we’re going to roll with in a couple of weeks, I think we need to step up and show that we’re better than what we were last week. I think the guys will do that. That’ll be the intent. We’ll see what happens. This could, it’s good offense we’re playing. I mean, our quarterback is really good. The offensive coordinator, the head coach does a really good job scheme wise. I’m sure, like everybody that comes in here, (it) doesn’t matter whether it’s regular season or preseason, (if) you play the Chiefs, they’re all jacked up. So, we’re going to get there. We’re going to get a good shot from them.”

Q:&nbsp;How do you feel Josh Williams fits into the back end of the defense?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you what, Josh (Williams) has played really, really well. We tried production, in training camp, pass break ups and interceptions and forced fumbles; Josh was right up there, with a group of them. So, to his credit, he has produced, he’s getting an opportunity now with NJ (Nazeeh Johnson), kind of dinged up here, and we’ll see how that transpires. But the one thing you know, Josh always gives us the speed and length on the edge, he’s always giving us that.”

Q: Do you feel like you’ve seen enough confidence in the protection from the left side on the offensive line?

NAGY:&nbsp;“I feel really good right now where it is at. I think that’s a credit to (Offensive Line) Coach (Andy) Heck and (Assistant Offensive Line) Coach (Corey) Matthaei and obviously the players on that left side, they’ve done a great job. Josh (Simmons) has done great. He’s really, I think, every day he gets a little bit better. He feels more confident, which is natural, so we want to keep that going. There is still going to be times where some things happen and that’s okay. Let’s just learn from it and then just try to eliminate those as much as we can.”

Q: How much are you trying to explain to Brashard Smith to trust the process on getting ready for the regular season?

NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s key that we make him (Brashard Smith) understand that. Because I can imagine a young guy like him coming into this offense – even a guy like Gardner (Minshew) that is here for the first time who has been in several different offenses, it can be a lot. So, you just kind of have to temper their expectations and not allow them to get frustrated, whoever it is, if it’s Brashard, if you make a mistake that’s okay, don’t make it twice. And then when you get a chance to get on the football field like he did last week, he made some good plays, and he did a good job there. But can you follow that up and continue with that is the key.”

Q: On the wide receiver depth moving forward, to the 53-man roster.

NAGY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think it is a really good situation for us when you have that (depth). One of the things that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, (General Manager) Brett Veach, (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) (Dave) Toub on special teams, they do a great job of trying to figure out okay if this guy is on the roster, how can we maximize what he does best? And vice versa, if there is a guy that is a special teams guy and we need him in a certain role, how do we get him in the offense and use him? Because you want to maximize those guys that are up for gameday and you want to try and stay away from a guy that is playing four or five, six plays a game you’d like to use those guys as much as possible, but the coaches do a good job at that.”

Q: On playbook expansion for rookies and new additions to the teams.

NAGY:&nbsp;“We try to understand that on the front end. Whether it is right when you get into training camp its nice because when you get into training camp you get to put on the pads. Now you gotta let them play. You gotta see what they can do. The one-on-one reps are too great, which a lot of people don’t see, but when they’re getting these one-on-one reps during our seven-on-seven periods, that’s valuable time. We put all that together and now they got all of these preseason games and so now that is all very real for them for timing. Now, it’s our job as coaches to make sure that we coach them the right way to help them develop.”

Q:&nbsp;Dave Toub has taken to your game. How has he expressed that to you?

GILLOTTE:&nbsp;“I think (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) (Dave) Toub has put me in a lot of positions to work and compete and that is kind of the bridge of trust there, him putting me in position just to be able to work or put my talents on display. Then just doing it from there.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you enjoy special teams?

GILLOTTE:&nbsp;“Yeah, obviously. Anything that gets you on the field is a good thing and special teams is a big part of our game. Obviously, we want to get our special teams to be number one or number two type, because it is a phase of the game. The hidden phase or lost phase. Us being good on that will help set up our offense better (and) our defense better. So, really any way we can contribute.”

Q:&nbsp;Have you felt anything different this week regarding preparation for the last preseason game versus the game against the Seattle Seahawks?

Chiefs Coordinator QuotesAugust 19, 2025ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUBQ: What are your thoughts on the rookies’ special teams performance against the Seahawks?&nbsp;TOUB:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean, I thought (Jalen) Royals did a really nice job. I thought he showed us something, he almost broke that one (a kickoff return), I mean the kicker just tripped him up right at the end. That was good to see, young players showing up (and) making plays. I thought (Ashton) Gillotte really played great on special teams. He had three tackles on special teams, he had a knockdown block. He’s an animal out there, so I’m excited about him as another rookie. (Jeffrey) Bassa (is) still a work in progress. He keeps working at it and keeps getting better. The thing with him is not the coverage, it’s the blocking. It’s just really technical. Athletically he’s everything you want; it’s just about getting the technique down on blocking.”Q: On Skyy Moore.TOUB:&nbsp;“His (Skyy Moore) punt-return ability and kick-return ability has really gotten better over the years, and it showed right there. I mean, he’s solid there, on that part of it. The other part is just the mental, I think, with him, and it’s just about getting over that hump. He’s definitely an NFL player, whether he’s on our team or not on our team. I think the return helped him. He’s a good football player.”Q: Are there any more holds and blocks in the back with the new kickoff rules?TOUB:&nbsp;“I haven’t noticed that, but there are a lot more returns. There’s going to be more returns, no question. Nobody’s just going to kick a touchback and allow them to (start at) the 35-yard line, that’s a big advantage. So, you want to take your chances with a good kick and then try to get it on the ground to try to get them tackled inside the 30 (yard line). I mean, you’re saving a big chunk of yardage right there. So, teams are going to do that, and I just think it’s going to increase the importance of the whole play, either kickoff or kick return. Will there be more penalties? Probably. A little bit, but teams are going to get better at it and figure things out as we go. The team that figures it out early is going to be the team that has success early, so hopefully that’s us.”Q: Where are you trying to push Tyquan Thornton right now?TOUB:&nbsp;“(I have) got to find a role for him (Tyquan Thornton). He’s definitely found a role on the offense; I don’t think there’s any question about that. He showed up there, (and) Pat (Patrick Mahomes) has a lot of confidence in him, and all (of) the offensive coaches have confidence in him. Now I’ve got to find a role for him on (special) teams, whether he’s going to play gunner, he’s going to be a kick returner, he’s going to play end on punt return. Is he going to play a two on the kickoff? He’s got to play somewhere being a third, fourth, or fifth receiver – those guys got to play on special teams because they’re taking up roster spots. But the thing about it is he’s a slight guy, so he’s got to use his speed, he’s got to use his quickness to get around people. He’s not going to run over anybody like (Ashton) Gillotte. We just got to find a role for him (Tyquan Thornton). He’s open to it, (and) he’s been great, and he’s getting better and better at gunner. He’s showing up a little bit more.”DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLOQ:&nbsp;What were your biggest takeaways from the Seattle game?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Yeah, I didn’t like the way we played the run. I’ll tell you what the biggest takeaway was, and I’m going to give (Seahawks Head Coach) Mike Macdonald and his staff up there a lot of credit, it just felt like they came out with the intent to prove to the Kansas City Chiefs, and they did.&nbsp; They were coming out of the huddle fast; they were running right at us. I’m just not sure we were ready for that, and shame on us. But I think our guys will be ready to play (some) good football this week.”Q:&nbsp;On the defensive line rotation and the loss of Felix Anudike-Uzomah.SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Well, it hurts to lose anybody, and certainly Felix (Anudike-Uzomah) who we were counting on in certain ways, right, and in certain roles. We’ll see who steps up and takes that role. I mean, it’ll become numbers, and (General Manager) Brett (Veach) does a great job with that. And (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, you know, some years I know we’ve kept five ends, and then it’s four, and then maybe I think sometimes we kept six. But it might be one less tackle or one less linebacker. So, when it gets down to the end there it’ll be who’s the best 53 or however that works out. But you know in Felix’s case, the next defensive end is there. Malik (Herring) got an opportunity to jump up in there. And you know, Ashton’s (Gillotte) been playing good football, so we’ll see how it pans out.”Q:&nbsp;What do you expect out of your guys on Friday?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I’m really hoping that we come out, you know with a purpose early on. I think (Head Coach) Andy (Reid) has stated that our guys are going to play a little bit. I don’t know how far that will go, but for as long as we have the so-called guys out there, that we’re going to roll with in a couple of weeks, I think we need to step up and show that we’re better than what we were last week. I think the guys will do that. That’ll be the intent. We’ll see what happens. This could, it’s good offense we’re playing. I mean, our quarterback is really good. The offensive coordinator, the head coach does a really good job scheme wise. I’m sure, like everybody that comes in here, (it) doesn’t matter whether it’s regular season or preseason, (if) you play the Chiefs, they’re all jacked up. So, we’re going to get there. We’re going to get a good shot from them.”Q:&nbsp;How do you feel Josh Williams fits into the back end of the defense?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you what, Josh (Williams) has played really, really well. We tried production, in training camp, pass break ups and interceptions and forced fumbles; Josh was right up there, with a group of them. So, to his credit, he has produced, he’s getting an opportunity now with NJ (Nazeeh Johnson), kind of dinged up here, and we’ll see how that transpires. But the one thing you know, Josh always gives us the speed and length on the edge, he’s always giving us that.”OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR MATT NAGYQ: Do you feel like you’ve seen enough confidence in the protection from the left side on the offensive line?NAGY:&nbsp;“I feel really good right now where it is at. I think that’s a credit to (Offensive Line) Coach (Andy) Heck and (Assistant Offensive Line) Coach (Corey) Matthaei and obviously the players on that left side, they’ve done a great job. Josh (Simmons) has done great. He’s really, I think, every day he gets a little bit better. He feels more confident, which is natural, so we want to keep that going. There is still going to be times where some things happen and that’s okay. Let’s just learn from it and then just try to eliminate those as much as we can.”Q: How much are you trying to explain to Brashard Smith to trust the process on getting ready for the regular season?NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s key that we make him (Brashard Smith) understand that. Because I can imagine a young guy like him coming into this offense – even a guy like Gardner (Minshew) that is here for the first time who has been in several different offenses, it can be a lot. So, you just kind of have to temper their expectations and not allow them to get frustrated, whoever it is, if it’s Brashard, if you make a mistake that’s okay, don’t make it twice. And then when you get a chance to get on the football field like he did last week, he made some good plays, and he did a good job there. But can you follow that up and continue with that is the key.”Q: On the wide receiver depth moving forward, to the 53-man roster.NAGY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think it is a really good situation for us when you have that (depth). One of the things that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, (General Manager) Brett Veach, (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) (Dave) Toub on special teams, they do a great job of trying to figure out okay if this guy is on the roster, how can we maximize what he does best? And vice versa, if there is a guy that is a special teams guy and we need him in a certain role, how do we get him in the offense and use him? Because you want to maximize those guys that are up for gameday and you want to try and stay away from a guy that is playing four or five, six plays a game you’d like to use those guys as much as possible, but the coaches do a good job at that.”Q: On playbook expansion for rookies and new additions to the teams.NAGY:&nbsp;“We try to understand that on the front end. Whether it is right when you get into training camp its nice because when you get into training camp you get to put on the pads. Now you gotta let them play. You gotta see what they can do. The one-on-one reps are too great, which a lot of people don’t see, but when they’re getting these one-on-one reps during our seven-on-seven periods, that’s valuable time. We put all that together and now they got all of these preseason games and so now that is all very real for them for timing. Now, it’s our job as coaches to make sure that we coach them the right way to help them develop.”Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 19, 2025DE ASHTON GILLOTTEQ:&nbsp;Dave Toub has taken to your game. How has he expressed that to you?GILLOTTE:&nbsp;“I think (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) (Dave) Toub has put me in a lot of positions to work and compete and that is kind of the bridge of trust there, him putting me in position just to be able to work or put my talents on display. Then just doing it from there.”Q:&nbsp;Do you enjoy special teams?GILLOTTE:&nbsp;“Yeah, obviously. Anything that gets you on the field is a good thing and special teams is a big part of our game. Obviously, we want to get our special teams to be number one or number two type, because it is a phase of the game. The hidden phase or lost phase. Us being good on that will help set up our offense better (and) our defense better. So, really any way we can contribute.”Q:&nbsp;Have you felt anything different this week regarding preparation for the last preseason game versus the game against the Seattle Seahawks?

Chiefs Quotes: 8-19-25

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first inning and then scored the go-ahead run in the seventh when Jonathan India was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, helping the Kansas City Royals to a 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.

Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run shot in the eighth for his 100th career homer, and Mike Yastrzemski went deep for the Royals, who have won five straight and improved to 7-1 on their season-high 10-game homestand.

Rangers reliever Hoby Milner (1-3) allowed three consecutive hits to start the seventh, including Pasquantino's double. Cole Winn then entered the game and hit India with his first pitch, giving Kansas City its first lead of the game.

Angel Zerpa (4-1) got five outs for the Royals before John Schreiber took care of the ninth for his first save.

Royals starter Seth Lugo and Rangers counterpart Merrill Kelly had matched each other pitch-for-pitch for most of the night.

Lugo surrendered a homer to Corey Seager with two outs in the first, then allowed one more hit before Joc Pederson’s homer in the fourth. Those were the only three hits that Lugo allowed, and he walked two while striking out five.

Kelly gave up the homer to Pasquantino, which just scraped over the right-field wall, with two outs in the first. He did not allow another hit until Yastrzemski's shot into the right-field bullpen with two outs in the sixth.

Those were the only two hits Kelly allowed over six innings. He struck out three without a walk.

Jonah Heim led off the eighth for Texas with a single, but Zerpa got pinch-hitter Cody Freeman to ground into a double play.

Kansas City is 5-0 against the Rangers this season.

The Rangers have not announced their starter for Wednesday after disclosing pregame that RHP Jacob deGrom would skip a turn due to shoulder fatigue. LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.47 ERA) is due on the mound for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755685030105.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. hits a two-run home run for his 100th career home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. hits a two-run home run for his 100th career home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered in the first inning and then scored the go-ahead run in the seventh when Jonathan India was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, helping the Kansas City Royals to a 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run shot in the eighth for his 100th career homer, and Mike Yastrzemski went deep for the Royals, who have won five straight and improved to 7-1 on their season-high 10-game homestand.Rangers reliever Hoby Milner (1-3) allowed three consecutive hits to start the seventh, including Pasquantino's double. Cole Winn then entered the game and hit India with his first pitch, giving Kansas City its first lead of the game.Angel Zerpa (4-1) got five outs for the Royals before John Schreiber took care of the ninth for his first save.Royals starter Seth Lugo and Rangers counterpart Merrill Kelly had matched each other pitch-for-pitch for most of the night.Lugo surrendered a homer to Corey Seager with two outs in the first, then allowed one more hit before Joc Pederson’s homer in the fourth. Those were the only three hits that Lugo allowed, and he walked two while striking out five.Kelly gave up the homer to Pasquantino, which just scraped over the right-field wall, with two outs in the first. He did not allow another hit until Yastrzemski's shot into the right-field bullpen with two outs in the sixth.Those were the only two hits Kelly allowed over six innings. He struck out three without a walk.<h2>Key moment</h2>Jonah Heim led off the eighth for Texas with a single, but Zerpa got pinch-hitter Cody Freeman to ground into a double play.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City is 5-0 against the Rangers this season.<h2>Up next</h2>The Rangers have not announced their starter for Wednesday after disclosing pregame that RHP Jacob deGrom would skip a turn due to shoulder fatigue. LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.47 ERA) is due on the mound for Kansas City.

⚾ Pasquantino and Witt power Royals to win over the Rangers

This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan University and Credit Union of America.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oCo1Wtts_aU"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan University and Credit Union of America.

Chiefs Training Camp Report: 8-18-25

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels was one of 58 quarterbacks named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List, the organization announced on Tuesday, presented annually to the top senior or upperclassman quarterback who is on track to graduate with their class.

This marks the second-straight season that Daniels was named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Preseason Watch List. Daniels has been named to several preseason watch lists entering the 2025 season, including the Walter Camp Player of the Year Watch List and Shrine Bowl 1000 Preseason Watch List. Daniels is one of nine Big 12 quarterbacks named to the Johnny Unitas Gold Arm Award Watch List.

Over his career, Daniels has completed 536-of-875 passing for 6,751 yards and 45 touchdowns. His 6,751 passing yards and 45 passing touchdowns rank second in program history. Daniels has also rushed for 1,043 career yards on 303 carries and 19 touchdowns.

In 2024, Daniels completed 171-of-300 passing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. Daniels served as a team captain and led the Jayhawks to three-straight ranked wins for the first time in program history. At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Daniels was named the Big 12 Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year, Kansas' first in program history.

Now in its 39th year, the Golden Arm Award continues to honor excellence both on and off the field. The award is presented by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation in partnership with A. O. Smith Corporation, whose mission aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to advancing the game of football while promoting character, leadership, and academic achievement among young athletes.

As the 2025 college football season unfolds, the watch list will be narrowed to semifinalists, finalists and one standout quarterback will take home the Golden Arm Award in December. The winner will be celebrated at our annual Golden Arm Award ceremony at the Four Seasons Hotel in Johnny Unitas’ hometown of Baltimore—an unforgettable night honoring leadership, legacy, and the best in college football.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels was one of 58 quarterbacks named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List, the organization announced on Tuesday, presented annually to the top senior or upperclassman quarterback who is on track to graduate with their class.This marks the second-straight season that Daniels was named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Preseason Watch List. Daniels has been named to several preseason watch lists entering the 2025 season, including the Walter Camp Player of the Year Watch List and Shrine Bowl 1000 Preseason Watch List. Daniels is one of nine Big 12 quarterbacks named to the Johnny Unitas Gold Arm Award Watch List.Over his career, Daniels has completed 536-of-875 passing for 6,751 yards and 45 touchdowns. His 6,751 passing yards and 45 passing touchdowns rank second in program history. Daniels has also rushed for 1,043 career yards on 303 carries and 19 touchdowns.In 2024, Daniels completed 171-of-300 passing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. Daniels served as a team captain and led the Jayhawks to three-straight ranked wins for the first time in program history. At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Daniels was named the Big 12 Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year, Kansas' first in program history.Now in its 39th year, the Golden Arm Award continues to honor excellence both on and off the field. The award is presented by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation in partnership with A. O. Smith Corporation, whose mission aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to advancing the game of football while promoting character, leadership, and academic achievement among young athletes.As the 2025 college football season unfolds, the watch list will be narrowed to semifinalists, finalists and one standout quarterback will take home the Golden Arm Award in December. The winner will be celebrated at our annual Golden Arm Award ceremony at the Four Seasons Hotel in Johnny Unitas’ hometown of Baltimore—an unforgettable night honoring leadership, legacy, and the best in college football.

Jalon Daniels Named to Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go, Felix (Anudike-Uzomah) strained that hamstring, most likely is going to go on IR here, this evening or this afternoon. Jack Cochrane has a knee bone bruise; he won’t practice today. (Ethan) Driskell won’t practice. Mike Edwards with a hamstring strain, he won’t practice. Nazeeh Johnson had a shoulder strain, he won’t go today. Omarr (Norman-Lott) had the ankle sprain and kind of re-hurt it or something of that sort, and then Jalen Royals has knee tendonitis, and he will be out. Other than that, everyone is going, and we’ll – this will be very similar to an in-season Wednesday practice, now that we’re back here (it) gives you guys a dry run to see how the media schedule goes for an in-season game and also (how) practice goes. Anyways, with that time is yours.”

Q: Do you anticipate the starters playing more in the upcoming preseason game against the Bears?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, they’ll start it off for sure and then we will see how it goes from there.”

Q: Have you seen enough from the young guys in the left tackle position?

REID:&nbsp;“I like how physical they are (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) playing for sure. The more reps they get, I mean, the better, I think for them. But I think they are doing a good job over there.”

Q: What went into playing the starters from game two and three?

REID:&nbsp;“I wanted to give the best look we could to these guys. They’re trying to make the team. We’ve got some guys that are right on the border of making it. Give them a shot. I wanted to see the quarterback work the one offensive line.”

Q: If Felix Anudike-Uzomah is placed on IR how disappointing is that for him entering his third year?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, that’s a tough thing. He’s worked hard so we’ll see where it goes. I can’t tell you how long it’s going to be, but any time for that (injury), is disappointing for him, I know, because he works so stinking hard.”

Q:&nbsp;What is your evaluation of Josh Simmons after two preseason games and preparation for the regular season?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, no, listen, I like the way he’s (Josh Simmons) approached it – Herbie (Teope). He’s worked at it. He hasn’t missed a beat here as far as missing a day or any of that. He’s been available and he’s working with (Offensive Line) Coach (Andy) Heck and getting better every day. I like where we’re at right now but we gotta keep going. He’s a young guy, but he’s been working his tail off.”

Q<a>:</a>&nbsp;On&nbsp;Kingsley Suamataia after the past two preseason games.

REID:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you the same thing. Kingsley (Suamataia) has moved into a new position, and those two (Kingsley Suamataia and Josh Simmons), they got a little something going there that you can see it more in the run game right now, where they’re really working well together and then the pass game, both of them are kind of feeling that part out. They’re doing a good job with it. We’ve been able to get some games in there against them. I thought they handled that well last week – some of the blitz stuff. Kingsley had a couple trip ups, where the back stepped up and he tripped over somebody’s foot there, (the) back’s foot. Other than that, he did a pretty good job there.”

Q:&nbsp;Are the challenges on the offensive line going to be more technical or is it the communication piece?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, they’ve (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) been working double time on that, so we’ll see how it goes with the game part of it and that. But then, talking through everything. They’re going to see some new things from both of them and how they handle that we’ll see. We’ll see how it goes when we get there with it.”

Q: When you get into a season with a rookie left tackle, with a guy who has never played in the NFL, was this just part of the process you knew was going to be part of the process?

REID: “Yeah, so you’re in this thing long enough, you’re going to have changeover, and you’re going to have you’re going to have young guys that have got to step up and they got to play. So, he’s (Josh Simmons) a talented kid and wants to be good and is working at it – both (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) of them are that way. Both of them are high draft picks, so you got to get in and you got to go, and you’re going to live with a few things, but you expect to see constant growth as you go, and similar to what we did with the secondary a few years ago. A lot of young guys and early it wasn’t quite as pretty as it was at the end.”

Q: What are you seeing from Kingsley Suamataia in meetings and attitude wise for this challenge at the left tackle position?

REID: “Kingsley (Suamataia) is a sharp guy, he’s quiet, but a sharp guy. He’s welcomed in this left tackle (position) and they’re trying to work that thing together and at the same time, him doing his job, moving from tackle to guard, but I like the way he handles himself in meetings. He’s grown up in that area, just attention to detail, all those things. I think it was good for him last year to get in there and play a little bit and so we’ll see how it goes here.”

Q: Have you heard from the league on Rashee Rice’s suspension? How do you prepare for this unknown information?

REID: “Well we know, we’ve heard about the hearing part of it, other than that, they’ve got to work all that out. I don’t know the details of it. I don’t think anyone does right at this minute. We’ll see where it all goes. We just, when we hear, we’ll do what we have to do.”

Q: What would you like to see from Hollywood Brown this week? Will he be able to play in this final preseason game?

REID: “Hollywood (Brown) did a little work yesterday, which is good. He’ll get a little bit more today. And then we’ll just see. We’ll see how he progresses through this thing. But he wants – it’s not a matter of wanting to be out there, he wants to do it, its just taking it slow because we don’t want any setbacks with this thing (injury) going forward here.”

Q:&nbsp;What did you do during the offseason to improve your hangtime and pooch punts?

ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Both of them were understanding different contact points, trying different things, finding what works, finding what adjustments I can make. Kind of tinkering if that makes sense.”

Q:&nbsp;How did you feel about having an additional punter and how did that challenge you?

ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Yeah it was good. Competition always pushes me, that’s how I’ve always been; and now it’s (been) three times that I’ve had competition in the NFL and all three have gone my way, I do think that it pushes me and elevates me.”

Q:&nbsp;Is calling for the different holds similar to calling for different pitches? Like do you have to hold number one, hold number two, etc.?

ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Kind of yeah. We have a little language going and yeah, it’s good. It’s been good to, obviously my first year, get that experience down and now (having) a ton of confidence in it. Holding is definitely something I take pride in. Coming out, coming from the draft it was something that, you know, was a big downside because I never did it in college. So, it was a big question mark, people thought I couldn’t do it. It’s definitely something I take pride in and work at a lot.”

Q: How do you feel after your first two preseason games, and does the NFL feel different now than what you were thinking a couple of weeks ago?

SIMMONS:&nbsp;“Yeah, for sure. It’s a great piece that you can take to practice every week and kind of build off of. I think it’s great for a rookie because you don’t know what the speed of the NFL is, like the preseason is still different from Week 1. So, if I could just take the little baby nuggets that I’m getting in the preseason and work on it for Week 1, we’ll be good.”

Q: Are there any specific things you want to work on and improve going forward?

SIMMONS:&nbsp;“Absolutely, I think just really right now, (with) me being as fresh as I am in here, I’m just working on everything. No matter if it’s like, something (like) athleticism, hand striking, (I) just work on everything.”

Q: How important is communication between the offensive line and Patrick Mahomes?

SIMMONS:&nbsp;“I’m doing more of my communication usually with Kingsley (Suamataia) or Creed (Humphrey) and stuff like that, but usually it’s vital. It’s like you need that. Without that, you won’t win any games or move any d-lineman if you can’t communicate cause then you’re not going in the right direction.”

Q:&nbsp;On what it was like playing through all the injuries last season.

WATSON:&nbsp;“It’s pretty challenging. Like I said last time, (I’m) just trying to get out there and fight for my teammates. (We) had one shot to make history, came (up) short but I wouldn’t change it.”

Q:&nbsp;What differences have you noticed from WR Xavier Worthy going from year one to year two?

WATSON:&nbsp;“He’s super twitchy, on top of his speed, which is hard to guard. His intermediate and short routes have grown a lot. That’s big.”

Q:&nbsp;On what the additions of Nohl Williams and Kristian Fulton bring to the defensive back room.

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesAugust 18, 2025HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go, Felix (Anudike-Uzomah) strained that hamstring, most likely is going to go on IR here, this evening or this afternoon. Jack Cochrane has a knee bone bruise; he won’t practice today. (Ethan) Driskell won’t practice. Mike Edwards with a hamstring strain, he won’t practice. Nazeeh Johnson had a shoulder strain, he won’t go today. Omarr (Norman-Lott) had the ankle sprain and kind of re-hurt it or something of that sort, and then Jalen Royals has knee tendonitis, and he will be out. Other than that, everyone is going, and we’ll – this will be very similar to an in-season Wednesday practice, now that we’re back here (it) gives you guys a dry run to see how the media schedule goes for an in-season game and also (how) practice goes. Anyways, with that time is yours.”Q: Do you anticipate the starters playing more in the upcoming preseason game against the Bears?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, they’ll start it off for sure and then we will see how it goes from there.”Q: Have you seen enough from the young guys in the left tackle position?REID:&nbsp;“I like how physical they are (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) playing for sure. The more reps they get, I mean, the better, I think for them. But I think they are doing a good job over there.”Q: What went into playing the starters from game two and three?REID:&nbsp;“I wanted to give the best look we could to these guys. They’re trying to make the team. We’ve got some guys that are right on the border of making it. Give them a shot. I wanted to see the quarterback work the one offensive line.”Q: If Felix Anudike-Uzomah is placed on IR how disappointing is that for him entering his third year?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, that’s a tough thing. He’s worked hard so we’ll see where it goes. I can’t tell you how long it’s going to be, but any time for that (injury), is disappointing for him, I know, because he works so stinking hard.”Q:&nbsp;What is your evaluation of Josh Simmons after two preseason games and preparation for the regular season?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, no, listen, I like the way he’s (Josh Simmons) approached it – Herbie (Teope). He’s worked at it. He hasn’t missed a beat here as far as missing a day or any of that. He’s been available and he’s working with (Offensive Line) Coach (Andy) Heck and getting better every day. I like where we’re at right now but we gotta keep going. He’s a young guy, but he’s been working his tail off.”Q<a>:</a>&nbsp;On&nbsp;Kingsley Suamataia after the past two preseason games.REID:&nbsp;“I’ll tell you the same thing. Kingsley (Suamataia) has moved into a new position, and those two (Kingsley Suamataia and Josh Simmons), they got a little something going there that you can see it more in the run game right now, where they’re really working well together and then the pass game, both of them are kind of feeling that part out. They’re doing a good job with it. We’ve been able to get some games in there against them. I thought they handled that well last week – some of the blitz stuff. Kingsley had a couple trip ups, where the back stepped up and he tripped over somebody’s foot there, (the) back’s foot. Other than that, he did a pretty good job there.”Q:&nbsp;Are the challenges on the offensive line going to be more technical or is it the communication piece?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, they’ve (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) been working double time on that, so we’ll see how it goes with the game part of it and that. But then, talking through everything. They’re going to see some new things from both of them and how they handle that we’ll see. We’ll see how it goes when we get there with it.”Q: When you get into a season with a rookie left tackle, with a guy who has never played in the NFL, was this just part of the process you knew was going to be part of the process?REID: “Yeah, so you’re in this thing long enough, you’re going to have changeover, and you’re going to have you’re going to have young guys that have got to step up and they got to play. So, he’s (Josh Simmons) a talented kid and wants to be good and is working at it – both (Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia) of them are that way. Both of them are high draft picks, so you got to get in and you got to go, and you’re going to live with a few things, but you expect to see constant growth as you go, and similar to what we did with the secondary a few years ago. A lot of young guys and early it wasn’t quite as pretty as it was at the end.”Q: What are you seeing from Kingsley Suamataia in meetings and attitude wise for this challenge at the left tackle position?REID: “Kingsley (Suamataia) is a sharp guy, he’s quiet, but a sharp guy. He’s welcomed in this left tackle (position) and they’re trying to work that thing together and at the same time, him doing his job, moving from tackle to guard, but I like the way he handles himself in meetings. He’s grown up in that area, just attention to detail, all those things. I think it was good for him last year to get in there and play a little bit and so we’ll see how it goes here.”Q: Have you heard from the league on Rashee Rice’s suspension? How do you prepare for this unknown information?REID: “Well we know, we’ve heard about the hearing part of it, other than that, they’ve got to work all that out. I don’t know the details of it. I don’t think anyone does right at this minute. We’ll see where it all goes. We just, when we hear, we’ll do what we have to do.”Q: What would you like to see from Hollywood Brown this week? Will he be able to play in this final preseason game?REID: “Hollywood (Brown) did a little work yesterday, which is good. He’ll get a little bit more today. And then we’ll just see. We’ll see how he progresses through this thing. But he wants – it’s not a matter of wanting to be out there, he wants to do it, its just taking it slow because we don’t want any setbacks with this thing (injury) going forward here.”Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 18, 2025P MATT ARAZIAQ:&nbsp;What did you do during the offseason to improve your hangtime and pooch punts?ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Both of them were understanding different contact points, trying different things, finding what works, finding what adjustments I can make. Kind of tinkering if that makes sense.”Q:&nbsp;How did you feel about having an additional punter and how did that challenge you?ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Yeah it was good. Competition always pushes me, that’s how I’ve always been; and now it’s (been) three times that I’ve had competition in the NFL and all three have gone my way, I do think that it pushes me and elevates me.”Q:&nbsp;Is calling for the different holds similar to calling for different pitches? Like do you have to hold number one, hold number two, etc.?ARAZIA:&nbsp;“Kind of yeah. We have a little language going and yeah, it’s good. It’s been good to, obviously my first year, get that experience down and now (having) a ton of confidence in it. Holding is definitely something I take pride in. Coming out, coming from the draft it was something that, you know, was a big downside because I never did it in college. So, it was a big question mark, people thought I couldn’t do it. It’s definitely something I take pride in and work at a lot.”T JOSH SIMMONSQ: How do you feel after your first two preseason games, and does the NFL feel different now than what you were thinking a couple of weeks ago?SIMMONS:&nbsp;“Yeah, for sure. It’s a great piece that you can take to practice every week and kind of build off of. I think it’s great for a rookie because you don’t know what the speed of the NFL is, like the preseason is still different from Week 1. So, if I could just take the little baby nuggets that I’m getting in the preseason and work on it for Week 1, we’ll be good.”Q: Are there any specific things you want to work on and improve going forward?SIMMONS:&nbsp;“Absolutely, I think just really right now, (with) me being as fresh as I am in here, I’m just working on everything. No matter if it’s like, something (like) athleticism, hand striking, (I) just work on everything.”Q: How important is communication between the offensive line and Patrick Mahomes?SIMMONS:&nbsp;“I’m doing more of my communication usually with Kingsley (Suamataia) or Creed (Humphrey) and stuff like that, but usually it’s vital. It’s like you need that. Without that, you won’t win any games or move any d-lineman if you can’t communicate cause then you’re not going in the right direction.”CB JAYLEN WATSONQ:&nbsp;On what it was like playing through all the injuries last season.WATSON:&nbsp;“It’s pretty challenging. Like I said last time, (I’m) just trying to get out there and fight for my teammates. (We) had one shot to make history, came (up) short but I wouldn’t change it.”Q:&nbsp;What differences have you noticed from WR Xavier Worthy going from year one to year two?WATSON:&nbsp;“He’s super twitchy, on top of his speed, which is hard to guard. His intermediate and short routes have grown a lot. That’s big.”Q:&nbsp;On what the additions of Nohl Williams and Kristian Fulton bring to the defensive back room.

Chiefs Quotes: 8-18-25

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/132c8dc1-6cb3-4915-9ec0-a121a6c1d803?elinkdata=27708">Jessica Biegert</a> fondly remembers the last time she had seven seniors on her Kansas Wesleyan volleyball roster.

It was 2022 and the Coyotes finished 28-7 (second in the Kansas Conference at 10-2), won the conference postseason tournament and played in the NAIA's National Tournament Opening Round.

Four years later Biegert has a similar roster and hopes for similar results.

"It reminds me a lot of (former standout) Maddy Beckett's class where they played all four years and it finally paid off for them in their senior year," said Biegert who enters her seventh season at KWU this fall. "We're hoping to see a repeat in the cycle because this group were freshmen that year."

With seven returning seniors and a productive offseason Biegert is confident the Coyotes will be in the hunt for the KCAC title. Just two senior starters departed from last year's team - longtime setter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cd0a4752-69e8-4821-87c7-322a2a16401f?elinkdata=27708">Josie Deckinger</a> and middle blocker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd056f06-8a05-4edd-9773-9ab99d234426?elinkdata=27708">Kyla Moore</a>.

"I think this senior class really wants to hold the standard high," Biegert said. "We worked on accountability all spring which was very productive. I think they set the stance in the spring and now it's just getting the freshmen acclimated to our standards and our system."

After going 17-13 a year ago Biegert wants this year's team to be better in one key aspect.

"Mental toughness is going to be the big thing," she said. "We had the talent last year; we just mentally clinched at the wrong moment that were big momentum changers and it kind of took games from us."

KWU is led by three senior all-conference players - opposite hitter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f5d6498b-0573-466f-82c5-2e151e2ad507?elinkdata=27708">Rylee Serpan</a> and outside hitters Kylie Harris and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ded8c1b4-799b-4f40-b9c4-2e8e06ee4076?elinkdata=27708">Gianna Adriaanse</a>. Serpan ranked seventh in the KCAC with 3.18 kills per set, Harris was 10th (3.00) and Adriaanse 13th (2.78). Serpan had 289 total kills, Harris 288 and Adriaanse 275.

Serpan and Harris were named to the 2025 KCAC Preseason Team.

"Serpan made All-American her freshman year so hopefully we can reach that bar again her senior year," Biegert said. "They've all been all-conference players the last two years, so we have our strong core."

Finding a replacement for Deckinger after a 5½-year career is the challenge.

"Josie was big in leadership," Biegert said. "She's just one of those players you play for because she's such a great human being."

Three Coyotes are competing for the setter job. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a3692c2d-84a0-43ab-8e4c-82ed88da8d8a?elinkdata=27708">Sara Bebout</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c155d119-97c1-4acc-ba95-cce5c06e9535?elinkdata=27708">Blair Pennington</a> are back from 2024 and are joined by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7b850654-2d00-4e7d-9c37-f29a50f4081c?elinkdata=27708">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a> who redshirted last season after transferring from Hutchinson Community College.

"Bebout was our backup setter last year," Biegert said. "She's a setter-hitter combo so we'll see if she can fill both roles. Pennington was a freshman last year and is a strong setter with a competitor mindset. Stuhlsatz got hurt early in the year so she's hungry after sitting out the whole year. We have three options and we'll let them battle it out."

Biegert is joined by assistant coaches <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fafd7cbb-02f5-4d9c-9859-1a6bd515eebc?elinkdata=27708">Skylar Lane</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/46e98c4e-eb76-4ef8-bc78-b6e95c5cd023?elinkdata=27708">Viet Nguyen</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e141380e-2fa9-4cdd-8a1b-9af25dc3d034?elinkdata=27708">Natalie Foster</a>. Foster is a newcomer to the staff after playing for the Orlando Valkyries in the Pro Volleyball Federation.

Biegert expects the KCAC to be balanced and competitive once again but isn't focused on it right now.

"We just worry about ourselves and that's enough," she said. "I don't want to waste my energy digging into them when I've got plenty on my own plate."

The Coyotes open the season August 23 with matches against College of Saint Mary and Hastings in the Hastings Classic and play Northwestern and Park on September 19 in Parkville, Mo. The first home match is against Benedictine at 11 a.m. September 27 inside Mabee Arena.

"We've got Northwestern and Park, who's always top 25," she said. "Benedictine is always really good, College of Saint Mary is a top 25 program and Hastings is good too, so the schedule is tough. We play (Division II) Fort Hays (September 6 in Hays). I always like to play a higher-level team, and I love playing them."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/132c8dc1-6cb3-4915-9ec0-a121a6c1d803?elinkdata=27708">Jessica Biegert</a> fondly remembers the last time she had seven seniors on her Kansas Wesleyan volleyball roster.It was 2022 and the Coyotes finished 28-7 (second in the Kansas Conference at 10-2), won the conference postseason tournament and played in the NAIA's National Tournament Opening Round.Four years later Biegert has a similar roster and hopes for similar results."It reminds me a lot of (former standout) Maddy Beckett's class where they played all four years and it finally paid off for them in their senior year," said Biegert who enters her seventh season at KWU this fall. "We're hoping to see a repeat in the cycle because this group were freshmen that year."With seven returning seniors and a productive offseason Biegert is confident the Coyotes will be in the hunt for the KCAC title. Just two senior starters departed from last year's team - longtime setter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cd0a4752-69e8-4821-87c7-322a2a16401f?elinkdata=27708">Josie Deckinger</a> and middle blocker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd056f06-8a05-4edd-9773-9ab99d234426?elinkdata=27708">Kyla Moore</a>."I think this senior class really wants to hold the standard high," Biegert said. "We worked on accountability all spring which was very productive. I think they set the stance in the spring and now it's just getting the freshmen acclimated to our standards and our system."After going 17-13 a year ago Biegert wants this year's team to be better in one key aspect."Mental toughness is going to be the big thing," she said. "We had the talent last year; we just mentally clinched at the wrong moment that were big momentum changers and it kind of took games from us."KWU is led by three senior all-conference players - opposite hitter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f5d6498b-0573-466f-82c5-2e151e2ad507?elinkdata=27708">Rylee Serpan</a> and outside hitters Kylie Harris and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ded8c1b4-799b-4f40-b9c4-2e8e06ee4076?elinkdata=27708">Gianna Adriaanse</a>. Serpan ranked seventh in the KCAC with 3.18 kills per set, Harris was 10th (3.00) and Adriaanse 13th (2.78). Serpan had 289 total kills, Harris 288 and Adriaanse 275.Serpan and Harris were named to the 2025 KCAC Preseason Team."Serpan made All-American her freshman year so hopefully we can reach that bar again her senior year," Biegert said. "They've all been all-conference players the last two years, so we have our strong core."Finding a replacement for Deckinger after a 5½-year career is the challenge."Josie was big in leadership," Biegert said. "She's just one of those players you play for because she's such a great human being."Three Coyotes are competing for the setter job. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a3692c2d-84a0-43ab-8e4c-82ed88da8d8a?elinkdata=27708">Sara Bebout</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c155d119-97c1-4acc-ba95-cce5c06e9535?elinkdata=27708">Blair Pennington</a> are back from 2024 and are joined by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7b850654-2d00-4e7d-9c37-f29a50f4081c?elinkdata=27708">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a> who redshirted last season after transferring from Hutchinson Community College."Bebout was our backup setter last year," Biegert said. "She's a setter-hitter combo so we'll see if she can fill both roles. Pennington was a freshman last year and is a strong setter with a competitor mindset. Stuhlsatz got hurt early in the year so she's hungry after sitting out the whole year. We have three options and we'll let them battle it out."Biegert is joined by assistant coaches <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fafd7cbb-02f5-4d9c-9859-1a6bd515eebc?elinkdata=27708">Skylar Lane</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/46e98c4e-eb76-4ef8-bc78-b6e95c5cd023?elinkdata=27708">Viet Nguyen</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e141380e-2fa9-4cdd-8a1b-9af25dc3d034?elinkdata=27708">Natalie Foster</a>. Foster is a newcomer to the staff after playing for the Orlando Valkyries in the Pro Volleyball Federation.Biegert expects the KCAC to be balanced and competitive once again but isn't focused on it right now."We just worry about ourselves and that's enough," she said. "I don't want to waste my energy digging into them when I've got plenty on my own plate."The Coyotes open the season August 23 with matches against College of Saint Mary and Hastings in the Hastings Classic and play Northwestern and Park on September 19 in Parkville, Mo. The first home match is against Benedictine at 11 a.m. September 27 inside Mabee Arena."We've got Northwestern and Park, who's always top 25," she said. "Benedictine is always really good, College of Saint Mary is a top 25 program and Hastings is good too, so the schedule is tough. We play (Division II) Fort Hays (September 6 in Hays). I always like to play a higher-level team, and I love playing them."Biegert is ready to get started.

🏐 Experienced Coyotes optimistic for success in 2025

The Kentucky Barrels are set to bring the high-octane action of Arena Football back to Greater Cincinnati with their inaugural season kicking off in 2026. As a proud expansion team in Arena Football One (AF1), the Barrels will make their home at Truist Arena on the campus of Northern Kentucky University.

“We are excited to welcome arena football to Truist Arena through this exciting partnership,” said Cady Short-Thompson, President of NKU. “This collaboration brings a new level of energy and entertainment to our campus and community, while showcasing Truist Arena as a premier venue in the region. We look forward to cheering on the team and seeing fans fill the stands.”

Owned by local entrepreneur and proud NKU alum Corey Cunningham, the Barrels aim to deliver an unforgettable game-day experience while making a meaningful impact in the community. With a passion for both football and the region, Cunningham is committed to building a team that fans can rally behind, on and off the field.

“The Barrels are going to be affordable, fast-paced, and family-friendly fun,” said Barrels Owner Corey Cunningham. “Once you see a game in person, you will see how exciting and exhilarating these games are. You can come watch championship-level football, support local charities, all while connecting with our team and community.”

"We are excited for the Barrels to join AF1 for the 2026 season," said Commissioner Jeff Fisher. "Corey and Coach Walker are hard at work building this team the right way for 2026 and beyond. Kentucky is a great market, and we are incredibly honored to bring them professional football in 2026."

Leading the charge on the sidelines is Head Coach Cedric Walker, who joins the Barrels after a successful run with the Billings Outlaws. Walker helped guide the Outlaws to a Championship in 2024 and brings a winning mindset and deep knowledge of the game to Kentucky.

The 2026 season will kick off in early spring. The Kentucky Barrels are ready to make some noise in their quest for the Arena Crown.

Founded in September 2024, Arena Football One (AF1) wrapped up its first season in 2025 with eight founding teams.&nbsp; Led by Commissioner Jeff Fisher, the league delivers the fast-paced, high-energy action fans expect from arena football – launching with a national TV deal on VICE TV and a debut season full of competitive games and memorable moments.&nbsp;

With legacy teams like the Albany Firebirds and Nashville Kats and emerging brands like the Washington Wolfpack and Southwest Kansas Storm, AF1 is building a coast-to-coast brand that delivers up close and personal Arena Football action to fans nationwide.

ASM Global managed Truist Arena at Northern Kentucky University features first class concerts, sporting events, family shows, and a wide variety of other events. Truist Arena is also home to the Northern Kentucky University Norse men's and women's basketball teams.

NKU is an entrepreneurial state university of more than 15,000 students on a thriving suburban campus nestled between Highland Heights, Kentucky, and bustling downtown Cincinnati. Ranked in the top 30 out of 500 universities nationwide by The Wall Street Journal for exceptional value, we are a regionally engaged university committed to delivering an innovative, student-centered education. We empower our graduates to have fulfilling careers and meaningful lives, while contributing to the economic, civil and social vitality of the region. Learn more at <a href="http://nku.edu/">nku.edu</a>.

The Kentucky Barrels are set to bring the high-octane action of Arena Football back to Greater Cincinnati with their inaugural season kicking off in 2026. As a proud expansion team in Arena Football One (AF1), the Barrels will make their home at Truist Arena on the campus of Northern Kentucky University.“We are excited to welcome arena football to Truist Arena through this exciting partnership,” said Cady Short-Thompson, President of NKU. “This collaboration brings a new level of energy and entertainment to our campus and community, while showcasing Truist Arena as a premier venue in the region. We look forward to cheering on the team and seeing fans fill the stands.”Owned by local entrepreneur and proud NKU alum Corey Cunningham, the Barrels aim to deliver an unforgettable game-day experience while making a meaningful impact in the community. With a passion for both football and the region, Cunningham is committed to building a team that fans can rally behind, on and off the field.“The Barrels are going to be affordable, fast-paced, and family-friendly fun,” said Barrels Owner Corey Cunningham. “Once you see a game in person, you will see how exciting and exhilarating these games are. You can come watch championship-level football, support local charities, all while connecting with our team and community.”"We are excited for the Barrels to join AF1 for the 2026 season," said Commissioner Jeff Fisher. "Corey and Coach Walker are hard at work building this team the right way for 2026 and beyond. Kentucky is a great market, and we are incredibly honored to bring them professional football in 2026."Leading the charge on the sidelines is Head Coach Cedric Walker, who joins the Barrels after a successful run with the Billings Outlaws. Walker helped guide the Outlaws to a Championship in 2024 and brings a winning mindset and deep knowledge of the game to Kentucky.The 2026 season will kick off in early spring. The Kentucky Barrels are ready to make some noise in their quest for the Arena Crown.ABOUT ARENA FOOTBALL ONEFounded in September 2024, Arena Football One (AF1) wrapped up its first season in 2025 with eight founding teams.&nbsp; Led by Commissioner Jeff Fisher, the league delivers the fast-paced, high-energy action fans expect from arena football – launching with a national TV deal on VICE TV and a debut season full of competitive games and memorable moments.&nbsp;With legacy teams like the Albany Firebirds and Nashville Kats and emerging brands like the Washington Wolfpack and Southwest Kansas Storm, AF1 is building a coast-to-coast brand that delivers up close and personal Arena Football action to fans nationwide.ABOUT TRUIST ARENAASM Global managed Truist Arena at Northern Kentucky University features first class concerts, sporting events, family shows, and a wide variety of other events. Truist Arena is also home to the Northern Kentucky University Norse men's and women's basketball teams.ABOUT NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITYNKU is an entrepreneurial state university of more than 15,000 students on a thriving suburban campus nestled between Highland Heights, Kentucky, and bustling downtown Cincinnati. Ranked in the top 30 out of 500 universities nationwide by The Wall Street Journal for exceptional value, we are a regionally engaged university committed to delivering an innovative, student-centered education. We empower our graduates to have fulfilling careers and meaningful lives, while contributing to the economic, civil and social vitality of the region. Learn more at <a href="http://nku.edu/">nku.edu</a>.ABOUT ASM GLOBAL

Arena Football Returns to Greater Cincy With Kentucky Barrels Joining Arena Football One

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.

Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.

Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.

Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.

Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.

Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.

The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.

Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.

Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755571505480.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski, Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to power the Kansas City Royals past the Texas Rangers 4-3 on Monday night.Michael Wacha (8-9) allowed two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings for the win. He struck out three, walked none and permitted two earned runs or fewer for the seventh straight start.Carlos Estévez set a career high with his American League-leading 32nd save.Yastrzemski's shot to right-center was the 10th leadoff homer of his career and third with the Royals, matching a franchise record for any month. Kansas City acquired Yastrzemski from San Francisco at the July 31 trade deadline.Pasquantino hit a two-run drive over the right-field wall to give the Royals a 3-1 lead in the third. Bobby Witt Jr. was aboard on a leadoff walk.Garcia's homer in the fifth went over the left-field wall, just inside the foul pole. Kansas City has homered in eight consecutive games, tying a season high.The Rangers scored on RBI singles by Jonah Heim in the second and Evan Carter in the sixth. Rowdy Tellez had an RBI groundout in the eighth.Jack Leiter (7-7) gave up three runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked three.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals catcher Luke Maile tagged out Joc Pederson at home plate as part of a double play off a throw from right fielder John Rave. The Rangers challenged the call and lost, keeping the score tied 1-all in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Texas went 2 for 8 with runners in scoring position and finished with 11 hits — 10 singles.<h2>Up next</h2>The teams play the second game of their series Tuesday night. Texas will start Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.36 ERA) against Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.77).___