Game 7 17/17&nbsp;K-State at West Virginia Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024 Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. (CT) Location: Morgantown, W.Va. Stadium: Milan Puskar Stadium (60,000) Series: K-State Leads, 7-6 TV: FOX (<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/kansas-state-wildcats-vs-west-virginia-mountaineers-oct-19-2024-game-boxscore-40358" target="_blank">watch</a>) Connor Onion (Play-by-Play) Mark Helfrich (Analyst) Josh Sims (Sidelines) Radio: K-State Sports Network;&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/watch" target="_blank">Listen</a>) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wyatt Thompson (Play-by-Play)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Stan Weber (Analyst) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Matt Walters (Sidelines) SiriusXM Satellite Radio Ch. 139 or 198, and on the SiriusXM App <a href="https://tunein.com/radio/Big-12-Radio-s329464/" target="_blank">Big 12 Radio on TuneIn</a> X Updates: @KStateFB and @KStateStatsInfo

1)&nbsp;Following a dramatic 31-28 win at Colorado, No. 17 Kansas State heads back out on the Big 12 road for the second-straight week as the Wildcats face the West Virginia Mountaineers in Morgantown, W.Va. The game, which starts at 6:30 p.m. (CT), will be shown nationally on FOX with Connor Onion (play-by-play), Mark Helfrich (analyst) and Josh Sims (sidelines) on the call.

2)&nbsp;Quarterback Avery Johnson is set to make his eighth career start under center and has thrown for 1,103 yards and 11 touchdowns on 92-of-149 aim while adding 306 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He is one of only 11 quarterbacks in the country and the only Big 12 signal caller with at least 1,100 passing yards and 300 rushing yards this season, while he has accounted for 14 touchdowns.

3)&nbsp;Junior running back DJ Giddens has rushed for a Big 12-best 786 yards and two touchdowns on 108 carries to go along with 10 receptions for 129 yards and another score. Giddens ranks fourth nationally by averaging 131.0 rushing yards per game, while he is fifth in the nation in scrimmage yards per game (152.5). Giddens has averaged 7.28 yards per rush this season, which ranks fourth in the country.

4)&nbsp;Kansas State has seven players with 20 or more tackles this season, led by linebacker Austin Romaine's 39. He ranks second on the team in both tackles for loss (4.0) and sacks (2.0) behind senior defensive end Brendan Mott, who has 8.0 TFLs and 6.5 sacks. Four Wildcats have carded an interception this season in VJ Payne (2), Jacob Parrish, Marques Sigle and Keenan Garber.

5)&nbsp;Chris Tennant has been true on 9-of-11 field goals with his only misses coming from distances of 48 and 53 yards. Simon McClannan has averaged 42.3 yards per punt this season to rank fourth in the Big 12, while his eight punts that have ended inside the opponent 20-yard line are tied for third in the league. Dylan Edwards enters the game ranked sixth nationally with a 16.6-yard punt return average.

STATISTICAL SPOTLIGHTS241.0&nbsp;– Rushing yards per game this year by Kansas State, which ranks eighth in the nation and second in the Big 12.

141&nbsp;– Big 12 victories by K-State since the conference's inception in 1996, the most among active programs.

74&nbsp;– Sack yardage by K-State at Colorado, the most in the nation this year and fourth most ever in a Big 12 game.

6.43&nbsp;– Rushing yards per carry by K-State, which ranks third in the nation and is tops in the Big 12.

-29&nbsp;– Rushing yards allowed by K-State at Colorado, the fewest in the nation this season and third-fewest in school history.

• Kansas State bounced back from a setback at BYU with two big wins – a 42-20 victory over No. 20 Oklahoma State on September 28 and a 31-28 triumph at Colorado last week.

• Against the Buffs, Avery Johnson threw for two touchdowns and ran for another, while running back DJ Giddens ran for 182 yards on 25 carries and added two catches for 38 yards.

• On defense, the Wildcats recorded 6.0 sacks – their most since 2022 – and were led by senior Brendan Mott with 2.5 sacks.

• K-State held the Buffs to -29 yards rushing in the game, the third-fewest rushing yards allowed by the Wildcats in school history.

• The game prior against Oklahoma State, K-State accumulated 559 yards of total offense, which included 300 rushing yards on just 34 carries – good for an 8.8-yard average.

• Johnson became the first K-State quarterback since Collin Klein in 2012 (at West Virginia) to tally at least three passing touchdowns and two rushing scores in a Big 12 game.

• After surrendering a field goal on a short field early in the second quarter, the K-State defense did not allow a score over the next 10 Cowboy possessions, which included a fumble recovery and pair of interceptions.

• The Cowboys recorded 72 rushing yards in the first quarter, but the Wildcat defense limited OSU to just 54 rushing yards the remainder of the game.

• K-State is looking to continue its winning ways on the road in the Big 12 as the Wildcats held a 4-1 conference road record in 2022 on their way to a Big 12 Championship, and the Wildcats are 1-1 thus far in 2024.

• Last season, Kansas State was 2-2 in Big 12 road games.

• Although winning on the road in the Big 12 has proven difficult for every program, Kansas State leads active conference teams with 58 Big 12 road wins since the league's inception in 1996. Oklahoma State is second on the list with 55 wins.

• K-State has a total of 227 victories since 1996, which is tied for 21st nationally.

• Among active Big 12 teams, the Wildcats rank fourth behind BYU (234), Utah (232) and TCU (232).

• Over the last 14 seasons, the Wildcats have won at least seven games on 12 occasions.

• K-State is riding a streak of three-straight years of at least eight wins, its longest since 2011 (10), 2012 (11), 2013 (8) and 2014 (9).

• The Wildcats are the only returning Big 12 team with at least eight wins in each of the last three seasons and one of 13 Power 4 programs to claim that feat.

• K-State has 32 wins since 2021, which is tied for 13th nationally and tied for first among active Big 12 teams with Oklahoma State and Utah.

• Kansas State has totaled 141 Big 12 victories since the conference’s formation in 1996, which stands as the most among active Big 12 programs.

• The Cats are also second among active Big 12 members in winning percentage since non-divisional play began in 2011. They sit at 60.0% (72-48), trailing only Oklahoma State (64.2%; 77-43).

• During that stretch, the Wildcats are 40-20 (66.7%) at home in Big 12 play and 32-28 (53.3%) on the road.

• Kansas State checks in at No. 17 in this week's Associated Press Top 25 as the Wildcats have been ranked in all eight AP polls this year.

• It is the first time K-State has been ranked in the first eight AP polls of a season since appearing in all 17 polls in 2014.

• K-State has been ranked in the AP Top 25 on 239 occasions since 1993, the most among active Big 12 teams and ranked 22nd nationally.

• Kansas State was ranked No. 25 in the final College Football Playoff Top 25 of 2023, marking the 12th-straight time the Cats were ranked in the CFP Top 25. That figure is tied for the sixth-longest active streak.

• K-State is only playing four opponents from last year’s schedule – Houston, Iowa State, Kansas and Oklahoma State – in 2024.

• It is the fewest amount of carryover opponents from one year to the next since only three rematches from 1918 to 1919.

• Additionally, half of the Wildcats’ schedule is against teams in which they have not faced in at least 10 years, if ever. Those are UT Martin (First Meeting), Arizona (1978), BYU (1997), Colorado (2010), Arizona State (2002) and Cincinnati (1996).

• A proven winner with a championship history, Chris Klieman holds a 116-38 career record, as his 75.3% career winning percentage ranks fourth among current FBS coaches that have led programs for at least 10 seasons. He is also one of just 17 current Power 4 head coaches with at least 100 victories.

• Klieman, who is 44-25 (63.5%) since arriving at K-State, has led the Cats to five victories over teams ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press Top 25, which is the most of any active Big 12 program since 2019. Next on the list is Utah with four, followed by Baylor, Oklahoma State and TCU with three apiece.

• Kansas State ranked in the top 10 nationally in turnover margin each of the last two years as the Wildcats finished eighth in 2022 and fifth in 2023, which marked the first time in the top 10 in consecutive seasons since 2011 (9th) and 2012 (3rd).

• After sitting at minus-2 in turnover margin entering the Oklahoma State game, the Wildcats are now even on the year.

• Kansas State enters the week ranked seventh nationally with only 33.83 penalty yards per game.

• The Wildcats are looking for their fourth-straight season under 50.0 penalty yards per game, which would be their longest since staying under that mark from 2010 through 2015.

• K-State is the nation’s best in non-offensive touchdowns over the last 25-plus seasons as it has 134 since 1999, nine more than the next closest team (Alabama – 125).

• K-State has recorded three non-offensive scores this season with a Ty Bowman blocked punt against UT Martin that was returned one yard for a score by Colby McCalister in addition to a Jack Fabris 60-yard fumble return at Tulane. Dylan Edwards then added a 71-yard punt return against Arizona.

• It was the longest streak of games with a non-offensive touchdown since the final three games of the 2019 season, while it was the first time K-State had a non-offensive touchdown in each of the first three games of a season since 2002.

• Kansas State rallied from a 20-10 halftime deficit at Tulane to take a 34-27 win in New Orleans.

• The win was the first since last year’s KU game when trailing at halftime and also marked the first time since the 2021 Texas Tech game that the Wildcats rallied from a double-digit halftime deficit to win as they trailed 24-10 at half in that contest.

• With the entire six-game 2024 home slate trending toward being sold out, K-State is currently riding a streak of 17-consecutive sellouts dating back to the beginning of 2022.

• Kansas State is one of only three schools in the nation to rank in the top 20 of percentage of capacity filled each of the last 10 seasons, joining Ohio State and Oklahoma.

• So far this year, K-State ranks 10th nationally by filling its stadium to 102.85% capacity.

• K-State enters this week's matchup at West Virginia ranking eighth nationally and second in the Big 12 by averaging 241.0 rushing yards per game, while the Cats are third in the country and tops in the Big 12 by averaging 6.43 rushing yards per carry.

• K-State's school record for rushing yards per game is 264.1 yards in 2002, while its record for average yards per rush is 5.27 yards in 2016.

• The average is driven by 52 rushes of at least 10 yards to rank fourth in the nation, while K-State's eight rushing plays of 30 or more yards this season are tied for fifth in the country.

• The Cats have rushed for at least 200 yards in five games this year, one of only six teams in the nation (joining Army, Boise State, Iowa, Navy and Oregon State) to accomplish the feat.

ONE OF ONLY THREE• Four K-State players have had at least 10 rushing attempts and each average at least 5.0 yards per carry.

• Headlining that group is DJ Giddens and Avery Johnson with 7.3 yards per rush and 6.0 yards per rush, respectively. K-State is one of just three programs to have a quarterback/running back duo each have a rushing average of at least 6.0 on at least 40 attempts, joining Army (Kanye Udoh and Bryson Daily) and Notre Dame (Jeremiyah Love and Riley Leonard).TOTAL OFFENSE• K-State has totaled at least 375 yards of offense in 27 of the last 33 games dating back to the beginning of the 2022 season.

• During that stretch, the Cats held a 10-game streak against Big 12 foes with 375 or more yards, the longest in school history.TWENTY-EIGHT IS GREAT• K-State has scored at least 28 or more points in 13 of its last 14 games, its most over a 14-game stretch since doing so over a 16-game streak that spanned the final eight games of 1998 and first eight games of 1999.RED ZONE SUCCESS• The 2024 season is a continuation of red-zone success under Chris Klieman, as the Wildcats rank first among active Big 12 programs by scoring on 90.8% (247-of-272) of their overall red-zone trips since 2019 with 184 touchdowns (67.6%).

• Last season, the Cats ranked second nationally by finding paydirt on 78.5% percent of their red-zone possessions (51-of-65), and they narrowly finished behind Oregon State by 0.11%. K-State would have led the nation last year had the Cats not been in the red zone when taking a knee to close out the Pop-Tarts Bowl win.

• K-State enters play this week ranked 16th nationally and third in the Big 12 in red zone scoring at 95.24% (20-of-21).RED ZONE THREATS• Kansas State's tight end unit has combined for six touchdown receptions this year, which is tied for the second most in the nation.

• Four different K-State tight ends have touchdowns as Brayden Loftin and Will Swanson lead the way with two apiece, while Will Anciaux and Garrett Oakley each have one.OFFENSIVE LINE STEPPING UP• Although the offensive line lost four starters from a year, the current group is stepping up. In addition to its rushing rankings, K-State is also ninth nationally and leads the Big 12 with fewest tackles for loss allowed (3.50 per game).

• Despite limited starts at K-State entering the season, the current starting unit is experienced overall with a combined 103 starts and 6,984 career offensive snaps. The leaders in those departments are on the left side in tackle Easton Kilty (43 starts, 2,676 snaps) and guard Hadley Panzer (32 starts, 2,096 snaps).BY AIR AND GROUND• Quarterback Avery Johnson was the top dual-threat quarterback in the Class of 2023, and he's putting that on display during his true sophomore season as he is one of only 11 quarterbacks nationally and the only Big 12 player with at least 1,100 rushing yards and 300 passing yards.

• If he were to stay at his current averages, Johnson would become just the 21st quarterback in Big 12 history with at least 2,200 passing yards and 600 rushing yards in a season. Three other Wildcats have hit those marks – Michael Bishop (1998), Ell Roberson (2003) and Collin Klein (2012).MULTIPLE TDs• Avery Johnson threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two others in K-State's 42-20 victory over No. 20 Oklahoma State en route to Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week honors.

• He was the first K-State signal caller to have at least three passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns in a conference game since Collin Klein at West Virginia in 2012.

• A product of Wichita, Kansas, Johnson produced just the 30th such game against a ranked opponent since 1996, including just the ninth by a Big 12 player. Johnson and TCU quarterback Max Duggan (2022 vs. Oklahoma) are the only two Big 12 signal callers to accomplish the feat since 2018.

GIDDENS GETTING IT DONE• Running back DJ Giddens has averaged 131.0 rushing yards per game this season to rank fourth nationally and second in the Big 12, while he is fifth in the country with 152.5 scrimmage yards per game.

• Giddens' current rushing average per game ranks second in school history, and that figure is buoyed by 10 rushes of at least 20 yards to tie for third in the nation.

• Additionally, Giddens is one of only two players in the country (Dean Conners, Rice) with two runs 50 or more yards and a reception of at least 40 yards.

UP THE CAREER CHARTS• DJ Giddens enters this week's game with 2,530 career rushing yards, which ranks eighth in school history, while his 6.02 career yards per rush ranks second at K-State only behind Darren Sproles (6.11; 2001-04).

• A native of nearby Junction City, Kansas, Giddens also ranks in the top 10 in program history for a career in rushing yards per game (5th; 76.7), receiving yards by a running back (5th; 5500 and 100-yard rushing games (T6th; 10).

• Giddens enters the week ranked seventh among active players in career rushing yards per carry and 10th in career scrimmage yards per game (96.3).

DEFENSIVE NOTESLIMITED POINTS PER GAME• Since the K-State defense switched from a four-man front to a 3-3-5 alignment at the beginning of the 2021 season (45 games), the Cats are allowing just 21.3 points per game, which ranks 22nd nationally and is third among active Big 12 teams.

• Additionally, the Wildcats have only allowed 109 offensive touchdowns over that time, which ranks 23rd in the nation.

• The Wildcats have finished each of the three previous seasons by allowing less than 22.0 points per game, their longest streak since going 13-straight year from 1991 through 2003.

• Since head coach Chris Klieman’s first year of 2019, the Wildcats have held 37 of their 47 Big 12 opponents under their season average at the time it faces the Wildcats.

BEHIND THE LINE• K-State enters this week's game ranked 15th nationally and tops in the Big 12 with 3.00 sacks per game, while they are third in the conference with 6.5 tackles for loss per game.

• The Wildcats have tallied at least 4.0 tackles for loss in five games this year – including 11 TFLs in each of the first two contests – while they have at least two sacks in four contests – including a season-high six at Colorado.

HIGH SACK YARDAGE• Kansas State's six sacks at Colorado resulted in 74 yards of loss, the fourth-most ever in a Big 12 game and second most by any Big 12 team in any game since 2012.

• It was the most sack yardage accumulated by the Wildcats since at least 1995. Their previous best over that timeframe was 72 yards against Baylor in 2002.

STINGY AGAINST THE RUN• K-State enters this week ranking second in the country by allowing only 71.7 rushing yards per game.

• The Wildcats have not surrendered more than 149 rushing yards in a game this season, while they have limited opponents to under 100 rushing yards on four occasions, including -29 last week at Colorado. It was the fewest rushing yards allowed by an FBS team this season, the fewest allowed in a Big 12 game since 2006 and the third-fewest allowed by any team in the nation over the last seven seasons.

CREATING TURNOVERS• K-State has totaled 71 forced turnovers since the beginning of the 2021 season, which is tied for the second most among active Big 12 teams and tied for 11th among Power 4 teams.

• Of the 71 turnovers, 45 have been via interceptions to rank second among active Big 12 programs and tie for 15th among Power 4 teams.

🏈 Cats Travel to WVU for Primetime Matchup

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks return to action as they host the Houston Cougars to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, October 19 at 2:30 p.m. The week eight matchup serves as Kansas’ 119th Homecoming and will air on ESPN+ with Mark Neely (Play-by-Play), Todd Doxzon (Analyst) and Kelly Crull (Sideline) on the call.

Following an open week, the Kansas Jayhawks (1-5, 0-3 Big 12) look to get back on track following a 35-31 loss at Arizona State on Saturday, Oct. 5. The Jayhawks forced two Arizona State turnovers and found success on offense but were unable to overcome a late fourth quarter surge from the Sun Devils.

Kansas enters week eight among the best rushing offenses in the country, averaging 212.2 rushing yards per game behind the duo of Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr. Neal enters Saturday’s game just 180 yards away from the Kansas all-time rushing record of 3,841 yards set by June Henley from 1993-96.

The Houston Cougars (2-4, 1-2 Big 12) also enter Saturday’s contest fresh off a bye week. In their last game vs. TCU on Friday, Oct. 4, the Cougars totaled 361 yards of offense and 207 yards on the ground to take down TCU, 30-19. Houston was led by sophomore quarterback Zeon Chriss, who made his first-career start, throwing for 141 yards and a touchdown on 15-of-18 passing, to go along with 97 rushing yards and a touchdown. Defensive back A.J. Haulcy hauled in two interceptions coupled with seven tackles to lead the Cougars’ defense and earn Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors. Houston’s defense has allowed 20.5 points per game, which is the fifth fewest in the Big 12 Conference entering Saturday’s game, while averaging 13.7 points per game offensively.

Saturday’s matchup between Kansas and Houston will be the fifth in the series history, with Kansas winning all four prior matchups. The two teams last met in 2022, when Kansas defeated Houston 48-30, in a game that Daniels threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two. Prior to their meeting in 2022, Kansas and Houston played in the 2005 Fort Worth Bowl (W, 42-13) and in a home-and-home series in Houston in 1994 (W, 35-13) and in Lawrence in 1995 (W, 20-13).

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks return to action as they host the Houston Cougars to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, October 19 at 2:30 p.m. The week eight matchup serves as Kansas’ 119th Homecoming and will air on ESPN+ with Mark Neely (Play-by-Play), Todd Doxzon (Analyst) and Kelly Crull (Sideline) on the call.Following an open week, the Kansas Jayhawks (1-5, 0-3 Big 12) look to get back on track following a 35-31 loss at Arizona State on Saturday, Oct. 5. The Jayhawks forced two Arizona State turnovers and found success on offense but were unable to overcome a late fourth quarter surge from the Sun Devils.Kansas enters week eight among the best rushing offenses in the country, averaging 212.2 rushing yards per game behind the duo of Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr. Neal enters Saturday’s game just 180 yards away from the Kansas all-time rushing record of 3,841 yards set by June Henley from 1993-96.The Houston Cougars (2-4, 1-2 Big 12) also enter Saturday’s contest fresh off a bye week. In their last game vs. TCU on Friday, Oct. 4, the Cougars totaled 361 yards of offense and 207 yards on the ground to take down TCU, 30-19. Houston was led by sophomore quarterback Zeon Chriss, who made his first-career start, throwing for 141 yards and a touchdown on 15-of-18 passing, to go along with 97 rushing yards and a touchdown. Defensive back A.J. Haulcy hauled in two interceptions coupled with seven tackles to lead the Cougars’ defense and earn Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors. Houston’s defense has allowed 20.5 points per game, which is the fifth fewest in the Big 12 Conference entering Saturday’s game, while averaging 13.7 points per game offensively.Saturday’s matchup between Kansas and Houston will be the fifth in the series history, with Kansas winning all four prior matchups. The two teams last met in 2022, when Kansas defeated Houston 48-30, in a game that Daniels threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two. Prior to their meeting in 2022, Kansas and Houston played in the 2005 Fort Worth Bowl (W, 42-13) and in a home-and-home series in Houston in 1994 (W, 35-13) and in Lawrence in 1995 (W, 20-13).

Kansas Set to Host Houston for Homecoming on Saturday

Kansas Wesleyan's men's and women's basketball teams will face off in a 'Battle of the Sexes' skills competition during Homecoming Weekend on Friday inside Mabee Arena.

"We have great athletes on our men's and women's basketball teams and this will be a fun atmosphere for them to showcase their tremendous talent," KWU Athletic Director Miguel Paredes said. "We put this exhibition together all with the spirit of competition in mind. We hope all those we return to campus for Homecoming will use this opportunity to check out both teams at the same time."

The competition begins at 1 p.m., Friday, October 18, and is free to the public.

Kansas Wesleyan's men's and women's basketball teams will face off in a 'Battle of the Sexes' skills competition during Homecoming Weekend on Friday inside Mabee Arena."We have great athletes on our men's and women's basketball teams and this will be a fun atmosphere for them to showcase their tremendous talent," KWU Athletic Director Miguel Paredes said. "We put this exhibition together all with the spirit of competition in mind. We hope all those we return to campus for Homecoming will use this opportunity to check out both teams at the same time."The competition begins at 1 p.m., Friday, October 18, and is free to the public.

KWU teams to have skills competition during Homecoming

A goal just 40 seconds into the match set the tone as the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes put forth a dominating performance for a 6-1 win over the Avila Eagles on Saturday at JRI Hospitality Stadium at Graves Family Sports Complex.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c3a3a49d-c7ac-43bb-bdb5-4946232d08d2?elinkdata=13508">Gerardo Garcia</a> scored the first goal off a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d190d46c-d081-4a8f-b74d-83058c57f0e0?elinkdata=13508">Cayden Andersen</a> as Garcia got possession in front of the goal and shot it in from point blank range.

The Coyotes got another in the eighth minute, from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f4e020a8-e7f1-472d-9c73-5721d1707e98?elinkdata=13508">Kamille Kum</a>, again assisted by Andersen.

Avila got a goal in the 19th minute to get on the board, but the Coyotes were quick to respond. Noel ZImbeva scored it for the Coyotes in the 20th minute off an assist by Garcia making it 3-1 Coyotes.

KWU netted two goals less than 90 seconds apart in the second half, the first by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5d862ff4-03f5-4fe9-890d-07d4a81d7d15?elinkdata=13508">Pierre Gueguen</a> assisted by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fce70d0f-ae13-4b5b-83d4-dadccf50d4e1?elinkdata=13508">Jakob Treitl</a> and the second by Kum, his second of the match, assisted by Gueguen.

Kum nearly made it a hat trick in the 58th minute, sending a hard hit shot into the goal area from the left side, but hit the far post and it bounced out.

Wesleyan's final goal came in the 70th minute by Mike Wernicke assisted by Kum. After a long throw-in from deep in the corner, Kum went for an initial shot that was blocked and bounced right to Wernicke for the score.

KWU dominated the match with a 22-7 advantage in shots. Kum led the way with six shots. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d84d971e-0a47-4a92-8f11-f990b4546253?elinkdata=13508">Seth Flores</a> and Gueguen had three each. The Coyotes also had 17 corner kicks in the match, 10 in the second half.

A goal just 40 seconds into the match set the tone as the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes put forth a dominating performance for a 6-1 win over the Avila Eagles on Saturday at JRI Hospitality Stadium at Graves Family Sports Complex.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c3a3a49d-c7ac-43bb-bdb5-4946232d08d2?elinkdata=13508">Gerardo Garcia</a> scored the first goal off a pass from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d190d46c-d081-4a8f-b74d-83058c57f0e0?elinkdata=13508">Cayden Andersen</a> as Garcia got possession in front of the goal and shot it in from point blank range.The Coyotes got another in the eighth minute, from <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f4e020a8-e7f1-472d-9c73-5721d1707e98?elinkdata=13508">Kamille Kum</a>, again assisted by Andersen.Avila got a goal in the 19th minute to get on the board, but the Coyotes were quick to respond. Noel ZImbeva scored it for the Coyotes in the 20th minute off an assist by Garcia making it 3-1 Coyotes.KWU led 3-1 at the half.KWU netted two goals less than 90 seconds apart in the second half, the first by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5d862ff4-03f5-4fe9-890d-07d4a81d7d15?elinkdata=13508">Pierre Gueguen</a> assisted by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fce70d0f-ae13-4b5b-83d4-dadccf50d4e1?elinkdata=13508">Jakob Treitl</a> and the second by Kum, his second of the match, assisted by Gueguen.Kum nearly made it a hat trick in the 58th minute, sending a hard hit shot into the goal area from the left side, but hit the far post and it bounced out.Wesleyan's final goal came in the 70th minute by Mike Wernicke assisted by Kum. After a long throw-in from deep in the corner, Kum went for an initial shot that was blocked and bounced right to Wernicke for the score.KWU dominated the match with a 22-7 advantage in shots. Kum led the way with six shots. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d84d971e-0a47-4a92-8f11-f990b4546253?elinkdata=13508">Seth Flores</a> and Gueguen had three each. The Coyotes also had 17 corner kicks in the match, 10 in the second half.

Coyote Men's Soccer dominates Avila in 6-1 victory

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer scored two first half goals and made the difference stand as the Coyotes remained unbeaten in KCAC play, stopping the Avila Eagles on Saturday afternoon at JRI Hospitality Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.

The Coyotes improved to 7-0 in the KCAC and recorded the fifth shutout of the season in the victory, that also propelled KWU into the lead in the KCAC standings after Oklahoma Wesleyan played York University to a scoreless tie Saturday.

Wesleyan's first goal came early on, in the second minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bb4a6854-bf0d-454d-a7a0-c63d9e3d7a1d?elinkdata=13485">Valeria Hernandez</a> sent a ball into open space to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3cc1d029-eb26-4fb8-95df-9b91b9b27756?elinkdata=13485">Precious Nwosu</a> who gained possession, and eluded several Avila defenders before creating enough space to send a shot in for the goal.

The Coyotes had more chances at goals in the first half, another by Nwosu in the 14th minute, but was saved and another in the 24th by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8ab25cc7-be8c-48f6-9ac2-0de72ad13448?elinkdata=13485">Yissel Navarro</a> that was again saved.

In the 39th minute, the Coyotes found the net again. A foul gave the Coyotes a direct kick from 33 yards out just outside the near post. Navarro took the shot and slid it in just underneath the crossbar, center goal, for the score.

The Coyotes had another great chance in the 80th minute by Nwosu, but her shot was again saved.

KWU outshot Avila 14-8 in the match, led by Nwosu's four shots. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4c3d2e8b-3afd-41f4-a70f-a614c8115e3a?elinkdata=13485">Isabella Galvan</a> had two saves in goal preserving the clean sheet.

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Soccer scored two first half goals and made the difference stand as the Coyotes remained unbeaten in KCAC play, stopping the Avila Eagles on Saturday afternoon at JRI Hospitality Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.The Coyotes improved to 7-0 in the KCAC and recorded the fifth shutout of the season in the victory, that also propelled KWU into the lead in the KCAC standings after Oklahoma Wesleyan played York University to a scoreless tie Saturday.Wesleyan's first goal came early on, in the second minute. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bb4a6854-bf0d-454d-a7a0-c63d9e3d7a1d?elinkdata=13485">Valeria Hernandez</a> sent a ball into open space to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3cc1d029-eb26-4fb8-95df-9b91b9b27756?elinkdata=13485">Precious Nwosu</a> who gained possession, and eluded several Avila defenders before creating enough space to send a shot in for the goal.It put the Coyotes up 1-0.The Coyotes had more chances at goals in the first half, another by Nwosu in the 14th minute, but was saved and another in the 24th by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8ab25cc7-be8c-48f6-9ac2-0de72ad13448?elinkdata=13485">Yissel Navarro</a> that was again saved.In the 39th minute, the Coyotes found the net again. A foul gave the Coyotes a direct kick from 33 yards out just outside the near post. Navarro took the shot and slid it in just underneath the crossbar, center goal, for the score.The Coyotes had another great chance in the 80th minute by Nwosu, but her shot was again saved.KWU outshot Avila 14-8 in the match, led by Nwosu's four shots. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4c3d2e8b-3afd-41f4-a70f-a614c8115e3a?elinkdata=13485">Isabella Galvan</a> had two saves in goal preserving the clean sheet.

KWU WSOC makes two first half goals stand, grounding Eagles 2-0

COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes, ranked No. 16 in the NAIA, headed to the Gans Creek Cross Country course on Saturday to run in the Brian T. Simpson Invitational hosted by the University of Missouri - St. Louis.

The Coyotes posted a third place finish in the final standing, trailing only University of Saint Mary and NCAA Division II Drury University in the team standings. The Coyotes finished with 97 points overall.

Gans Creek will play host to the 2024 NAIA National Championships in November, and the Simpson Invitational gave the Coyotes a chance to preview the course before the National Championships.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ec80dabe-3589-41b1-b1f5-248b2f23f904?elinkdata=13462">Austin Hess</a> paced the Coyote finishers with a sixth place finish covering the 8K course in 25:12.14. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a5bd88d2-6c37-458d-b5a0-a020183d7a1c?elinkdata=13462">Julian Avila</a> was 16th for the Coyotes in 25:32.16, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ff87581d-c47b-4c35-b5fc-eba01665921b?elinkdata=13462">Damion Jackson</a> was 23rd in 25:50.58, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/65d24f6e-c1be-4651-9d5d-bda60b9442de?elinkdata=13462">Jake Cruz</a> was 24th in 25:50.80, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cfac7b06-683a-45eb-b3c6-f67246259129?elinkdata=13462">Ty Davidson</a> was 40th in 26:18.37, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d4e63d13-d35f-42d6-b7e8-4911acd2a975?elinkdata=13462">Tytus Reed</a> was 44th in 26:26.04, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2c523ddb-358f-4e3a-8611-fef144018b76?elinkdata=13462">Tim Parish</a> was 49th in 26:29.03, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c2c56f1-718d-402c-901d-647fa5c6b853?elinkdata=13462">Austin Schaeffer</a> was 51st in 26:33.32, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/88d425eb-4095-496e-b959-a1daf74eb601?elinkdata=13462">Brenden Ellis</a> was 55th in 26:36.66, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c0a84ae7-3646-4023-b0c8-d0369f1f1d9b?elinkdata=13462">Nicolas Martinez</a> was 59th in 26:47.33, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/239fab66-eefa-4da1-9d34-766dc695962c?elinkdata=13462">Triston Cottone</a> was 90th in 27:38.98, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/081a05d6-4ce8-49a3-980c-6552e61bff7d?elinkdata=13462">Evan Pearce</a> was 107th in 27:53.77, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4971d480-e4d3-4953-a116-427ee93ccc36?elinkdata=13462">Ian Doss</a> was 115th in 27:59.21, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7d6ba5d3-23e2-41bc-b621-36448f33ad9b?elinkdata=13462">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 131st in 28:19.24, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d33511aa-20d3-4c86-8f86-5b0e569cbb46?elinkdata=13462">Landon Steeger</a> was 134th in 28:34.48, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0911c494-8b69-4b54-8511-0f96b8e1ad17?elinkdata=13462">Nate Chavez</a> was 138th in 28:38.26, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bef2950b-1c4c-4dbe-a4f4-35deac69682c?elinkdata=13462">Brodie Bradshaw</a> was 141st in 28:51.18, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f4e3af9-8f64-4742-a6af-518dd3d2e3f5?elinkdata=13462">Jack Horacek</a> was 158th in 29:39.62, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6a7eace6-4938-410c-b58e-0a7a3715ea64?elinkdata=13462">Will Childers</a> was 178th in 31:20.38, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/78c5dd95-a588-4f36-aefc-cb62a030f846?elinkdata=13462">Roman Mai</a> was 186th in 33:39.61.

Saint Mary was the team champion with 39 points, Drury was second with 59, followed by KWU with 100, University of Missouri-St. Louis with 116 and Columbia (Mo.) in fifth with 133 to round out the Top 5 teams.

Saint Mary's Dominick Beine was the individual champion with a time of 24:54.37.

COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes, ranked No. 16 in the NAIA, headed to the Gans Creek Cross Country course on Saturday to run in the Brian T. Simpson Invitational hosted by the University of Missouri - St. Louis.The Coyotes posted a third place finish in the final standing, trailing only University of Saint Mary and NCAA Division II Drury University in the team standings. The Coyotes finished with 97 points overall.Gans Creek will play host to the 2024 NAIA National Championships in November, and the Simpson Invitational gave the Coyotes a chance to preview the course before the National Championships.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ec80dabe-3589-41b1-b1f5-248b2f23f904?elinkdata=13462">Austin Hess</a> paced the Coyote finishers with a sixth place finish covering the 8K course in 25:12.14. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a5bd88d2-6c37-458d-b5a0-a020183d7a1c?elinkdata=13462">Julian Avila</a> was 16th for the Coyotes in 25:32.16, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ff87581d-c47b-4c35-b5fc-eba01665921b?elinkdata=13462">Damion Jackson</a> was 23rd in 25:50.58, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/65d24f6e-c1be-4651-9d5d-bda60b9442de?elinkdata=13462">Jake Cruz</a> was 24th in 25:50.80, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cfac7b06-683a-45eb-b3c6-f67246259129?elinkdata=13462">Ty Davidson</a> was 40th in 26:18.37, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d4e63d13-d35f-42d6-b7e8-4911acd2a975?elinkdata=13462">Tytus Reed</a> was 44th in 26:26.04, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2c523ddb-358f-4e3a-8611-fef144018b76?elinkdata=13462">Tim Parish</a> was 49th in 26:29.03, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1c2c56f1-718d-402c-901d-647fa5c6b853?elinkdata=13462">Austin Schaeffer</a> was 51st in 26:33.32, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/88d425eb-4095-496e-b959-a1daf74eb601?elinkdata=13462">Brenden Ellis</a> was 55th in 26:36.66, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c0a84ae7-3646-4023-b0c8-d0369f1f1d9b?elinkdata=13462">Nicolas Martinez</a> was 59th in 26:47.33, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/239fab66-eefa-4da1-9d34-766dc695962c?elinkdata=13462">Triston Cottone</a> was 90th in 27:38.98, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/081a05d6-4ce8-49a3-980c-6552e61bff7d?elinkdata=13462">Evan Pearce</a> was 107th in 27:53.77, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4971d480-e4d3-4953-a116-427ee93ccc36?elinkdata=13462">Ian Doss</a> was 115th in 27:59.21, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7d6ba5d3-23e2-41bc-b621-36448f33ad9b?elinkdata=13462">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 131st in 28:19.24, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d33511aa-20d3-4c86-8f86-5b0e569cbb46?elinkdata=13462">Landon Steeger</a> was 134th in 28:34.48, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0911c494-8b69-4b54-8511-0f96b8e1ad17?elinkdata=13462">Nate Chavez</a> was 138th in 28:38.26, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/bef2950b-1c4c-4dbe-a4f4-35deac69682c?elinkdata=13462">Brodie Bradshaw</a> was 141st in 28:51.18, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f4e3af9-8f64-4742-a6af-518dd3d2e3f5?elinkdata=13462">Jack Horacek</a> was 158th in 29:39.62, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6a7eace6-4938-410c-b58e-0a7a3715ea64?elinkdata=13462">Will Childers</a> was 178th in 31:20.38, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/78c5dd95-a588-4f36-aefc-cb62a030f846?elinkdata=13462">Roman Mai</a> was 186th in 33:39.61.Saint Mary was the team champion with 39 points, Drury was second with 59, followed by KWU with 100, University of Missouri-St. Louis with 116 and Columbia (Mo.) in fifth with 133 to round out the Top 5 teams.Saint Mary's Dominick Beine was the individual champion with a time of 24:54.37.

No. 16 ranked Coyotes finish third at Brian T. Simpson

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Cross Country finished in third place on Saturday at the Brian T. Simpson Invitational, hosted by University of Missouri Saint Louis at Gans Creek Cross Country Course.

The meet was held at the same course that will host the 2024 NAIA Cross Country National Championships in November, giving the Coyote runners a preview of the course.

Wesleyan finished with 84 points in third place by a wide margin over Evangel in the standings. The Valor were fourth with 156 points. William Woods was fifth with 165 points.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/254ee8ed-3b74-4dc2-9ab0-5b695cc33371?elinkdata=13439">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> led the Coyote finishers with an 11th place finish covering the course in 18:45.23. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b97c65ec-1ef6-421f-a3cd-59a8b26a4d80?elinkdata=13439">Josie Koppes</a> was 13th in 18:50.71, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/592fde96-d096-4704-b05b-7de7a5c7d088?elinkdata=13439">Kierra Jensen</a> was 15th in 18:52.29, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c188a369-64a5-4a81-8236-935482e02e73?elinkdata=13439">Kirstin Hackney</a> was 24th in 19:15.61, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1002f580-7ed0-4873-8319-f29fe682734b?elinkdata=13439">Charlee Lind</a> was 28th in 19:24.04, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3cde807b-b5fc-4d46-9c22-bac7a69ff2d6?elinkdata=13439">Alayna Behrman</a> was 32nd in 19:35.67, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e840455b-f0d5-43fb-814e-1c9eda34f3ed?elinkdata=13439">Shelby Lingle</a> was 48th in 20:03.77, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/95f02071-8850-4036-9fbd-2794dd62742f?elinkdata=13439">Hailey Nordhus</a> was 55th in 20:25.48, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a6be9f7e-d627-4e2e-bc30-4491ccd8d796?elinkdata=13439">Micah Dickens</a> was 60th in 20:36.86, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/af957ae0-dcae-4277-beed-d443a2d8e02c?elinkdata=13439">Mya Schweitzer</a> was 66th in 20:47.35, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c263ed10-6fa1-4597-9aae-a9d213050ba7?elinkdata=13439">Makayla Little</a> was 92nd in 21:24.73, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fa810fad-b20b-4448-ab3a-4d601d3b9691?elinkdata=13439">Emma McAlister</a> was 101st in 21:48.41.

Saint Mary's Reagan Hiebert was the individual champion with a time of 17:33.50 for the race.

The Coyotes only trailed Saint Mary who was the winner with 22 points and NCAA Division II Southwest Baptist with 67 points.

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Cross Country finished in third place on Saturday at the Brian T. Simpson Invitational, hosted by University of Missouri Saint Louis at Gans Creek Cross Country Course.The meet was held at the same course that will host the 2024 NAIA Cross Country National Championships in November, giving the Coyote runners a preview of the course.Wesleyan finished with 84 points in third place by a wide margin over Evangel in the standings. The Valor were fourth with 156 points. William Woods was fifth with 165 points.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/254ee8ed-3b74-4dc2-9ab0-5b695cc33371?elinkdata=13439">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> led the Coyote finishers with an 11th place finish covering the course in 18:45.23. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b97c65ec-1ef6-421f-a3cd-59a8b26a4d80?elinkdata=13439">Josie Koppes</a> was 13th in 18:50.71, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/592fde96-d096-4704-b05b-7de7a5c7d088?elinkdata=13439">Kierra Jensen</a> was 15th in 18:52.29, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c188a369-64a5-4a81-8236-935482e02e73?elinkdata=13439">Kirstin Hackney</a> was 24th in 19:15.61, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1002f580-7ed0-4873-8319-f29fe682734b?elinkdata=13439">Charlee Lind</a> was 28th in 19:24.04, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3cde807b-b5fc-4d46-9c22-bac7a69ff2d6?elinkdata=13439">Alayna Behrman</a> was 32nd in 19:35.67, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e840455b-f0d5-43fb-814e-1c9eda34f3ed?elinkdata=13439">Shelby Lingle</a> was 48th in 20:03.77, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/95f02071-8850-4036-9fbd-2794dd62742f?elinkdata=13439">Hailey Nordhus</a> was 55th in 20:25.48, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/a6be9f7e-d627-4e2e-bc30-4491ccd8d796?elinkdata=13439">Micah Dickens</a> was 60th in 20:36.86, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/af957ae0-dcae-4277-beed-d443a2d8e02c?elinkdata=13439">Mya Schweitzer</a> was 66th in 20:47.35, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c263ed10-6fa1-4597-9aae-a9d213050ba7?elinkdata=13439">Makayla Little</a> was 92nd in 21:24.73, and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fa810fad-b20b-4448-ab3a-4d601d3b9691?elinkdata=13439">Emma McAlister</a> was 101st in 21:48.41.Saint Mary's Reagan Hiebert was the individual champion with a time of 17:33.50 for the race.The Coyotes only trailed Saint Mary who was the winner with 22 points and NCAA Division II Southwest Baptist with 67 points.

KWU Women's Cross Country finishes third at Brian T. Simpson

🏈 Area High School Football Scores: Week Six

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Avery Johnson rebounded from throwing a late interception by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RGIII/status/1845343431058420074">finding Jayce Brown</a>&nbsp;for a 50-yard touchdown with 2:14 remaining as&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/KStateFB/status/1845352115549471225">No. 18 Kansas State</a>&nbsp;escaped with a 31-28 win over Colorado on Saturday night.

The dual-threat quarterback for the Wildcats (5-1, 2-1 Big 12) finished with a rushing score and two passing TDs, both to Brown.

Leading 21-7 in the third quarter, the Wildcats saw the Buffaloes (4-2, 2-1) steadily chip away. Colorado took the lead when Shedeur Sanders threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester with 3:12 left.

The score was set up when Johnson’s tipped pass resulted in a 59-yard interception return by cornerback Colton Hood, who was filling in after two-way star&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travis-hunter-colorado-buffaloes-2b1dccbb45f5b415191c8672729d1389">Travis Hunter</a>&nbsp;left the game in the first half with an apparent shoulder injury.

Johnson needed only three plays to help Kansas State retake the lead. The Wildcats defense stopped the Buffaloes on downs to cement the win.

“Ultimately you’ve just got to make plays in big moments,” Johnson said. “Ultimately, that’s what our guys did.”

It was nearly the second straight magical comeback at Folsom Field for the Buffaloes. They beat Baylor on Sept. 21 in overtime after tying it up on a Hail Mary pass with no time left in regulation.

“Sometimes when you lose in life, you get your butt kicked and you've just got to take. Sometimes you lose, you say, ‘Dang, we should’ve won that. We should've had that,'” Colorado coach Deion Sanders said. “That was one of those types of games. That's not taking anything away from our opponents because they played their butts off.”

<a href="https://x.com/KStateFB/status/1845353222946341164">DJ Giddens</a>&nbsp;finished with 182 yards to become the first tailback this season to break 100 against the Buffaloes. Kansas State outgained Colorado 185 to minus-29 on the ground.

<a href="https://x.com/ESPNWichita/status/1845310769484775745">For Wildcats tailback Dylan Edwards,</a>&nbsp;it was a successful return to Folsom Field with a 1-yard TD run. He was a true freshman with the Buffaloes last season before transferring to Kansas State.

The Buffaloes' three-game winning streak came to a halt. More concerning, the health of Hunter, who appeared to hurt his shoulder catching a Shedeur Sanders pass and running full speed into safety Daniel Cobbs in the second quarter. The team also lost receivers Jimmy Horn Jr., Omarion Miller and Terrell Timmons Jr. to injuries.

Hunter is a Heisman hopeful for his play as a cornerback and receiver. Before leaving, he showed off his blocking skills by picking a defender and allowing Wester to score on a 25-yard pass.

Prior to the interception and the comeback, Johnson was having all sorts of fun on the field. He broke out the “Deion Shuffle” after a score. The cameras also caught Johnson taking a selfie with a fan in the stands who handed him their phone as he rode a stationary bike.

Johnson briefly went to the locker room in the third quarter holding his left side but returned to throw a TD pass to make it 21-7.

Shedeur Sanders finished 34 of 40 for 388 yards and three scores. He completed a school-best 16 straight passes and nearly had a 17th in a row but Will Sheppard dropped a pass in his hands. Soon after,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CUBuffsFootball/status/1845326551191060763">Sheppard made up for it</a>&nbsp;with a difficult 7-yard TD reception to make it 21-14.

“Yeah, we made a statement — that we lost,” the Colorado QB said.

Kansas State: Johnson and the Wildcats didn't panic after losing the lead and found a way to respond. “Some of the things that happened will help us down the road,” coach Chris Klieman said.

Colorado: Safety Shilo Sanders made his return after missing three games with a forearm injury. “I thought he was rusty," his father/coach said.

Longtime NBA standout Carmelo Anthony was on the sideline wearing a Colorado Avalanche jersey.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CUBuffsFootball/status/1845300543486402843">Kevin Durant showed</a>&nbsp;up near Colorado's bench, too. The Phoenix Suns play the Denver Nuggets in a preseason game Sunday night.

Also on hand was Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook.

Kansas State: At West Virginia next Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728805522456.jpeg" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson rushed for a touchdown and threw for two more, including one with 2:14 to play, in Saturday's 31-28 win over Colorado. (photo by Mike Courson/Great Bend Post)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson rushed for a touchdown and threw for two more, including one with 2:14 to play, in Saturday's 31-28 win over Colorado. (photo by Mike Courson/Great Bend Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Avery Johnson rebounded from throwing a late interception by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RGIII/status/1845343431058420074">finding Jayce Brown</a>&nbsp;for a 50-yard touchdown with 2:14 remaining as&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/KStateFB/status/1845352115549471225">No. 18 Kansas State</a>&nbsp;escaped with a 31-28 win over Colorado on Saturday night.The dual-threat quarterback for the Wildcats (5-1, 2-1 Big 12) finished with a rushing score and two passing TDs, both to Brown.Leading 21-7 in the third quarter, the Wildcats saw the Buffaloes (4-2, 2-1) steadily chip away. Colorado took the lead when Shedeur Sanders threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester with 3:12 left.The score was set up when Johnson’s tipped pass resulted in a 59-yard interception return by cornerback Colton Hood, who was filling in after two-way star&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travis-hunter-colorado-buffaloes-2b1dccbb45f5b415191c8672729d1389">Travis Hunter</a>&nbsp;left the game in the first half with an apparent shoulder injury.Johnson needed only three plays to help Kansas State retake the lead. The Wildcats defense stopped the Buffaloes on downs to cement the win.“Ultimately you’ve just got to make plays in big moments,” Johnson said. “Ultimately, that’s what our guys did.”It was nearly the second straight magical comeback at Folsom Field for the Buffaloes. They beat Baylor on Sept. 21 in overtime after tying it up on a Hail Mary pass with no time left in regulation.“Sometimes when you lose in life, you get your butt kicked and you've just got to take. Sometimes you lose, you say, ‘Dang, we should’ve won that. We should've had that,'” Colorado coach Deion Sanders said. “That was one of those types of games. That's not taking anything away from our opponents because they played their butts off.”<a href="https://x.com/KStateFB/status/1845353222946341164">DJ Giddens</a>&nbsp;finished with 182 yards to become the first tailback this season to break 100 against the Buffaloes. Kansas State outgained Colorado 185 to minus-29 on the ground.<a href="https://x.com/ESPNWichita/status/1845310769484775745">For Wildcats tailback Dylan Edwards,</a>&nbsp;it was a successful return to Folsom Field with a 1-yard TD run. He was a true freshman with the Buffaloes last season before transferring to Kansas State.The Buffaloes' three-game winning streak came to a halt. More concerning, the health of Hunter, who appeared to hurt his shoulder catching a Shedeur Sanders pass and running full speed into safety Daniel Cobbs in the second quarter. The team also lost receivers Jimmy Horn Jr., Omarion Miller and Terrell Timmons Jr. to injuries.Deion Sanders had no immediate updates.Hunter is a Heisman hopeful for his play as a cornerback and receiver. Before leaving, he showed off his blocking skills by picking a defender and allowing Wester to score on a 25-yard pass.Prior to the interception and the comeback, Johnson was having all sorts of fun on the field. He broke out the “Deion Shuffle” after a score. The cameras also caught Johnson taking a selfie with a fan in the stands who handed him their phone as he rode a stationary bike.Johnson briefly went to the locker room in the third quarter holding his left side but returned to throw a TD pass to make it 21-7.Shedeur Sanders finished 34 of 40 for 388 yards and three scores. He completed a school-best 16 straight passes and nearly had a 17th in a row but Will Sheppard dropped a pass in his hands. Soon after,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CUBuffsFootball/status/1845326551191060763">Sheppard made up for it</a>&nbsp;with a difficult 7-yard TD reception to make it 21-14.“Yeah, we made a statement — that we lost,” the Colorado QB said.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas State: Johnson and the Wildcats didn't panic after losing the lead and found a way to respond. “Some of the things that happened will help us down the road,” coach Chris Klieman said.Colorado: Safety Shilo Sanders made his return after missing three games with a forearm injury. “I thought he was rusty," his father/coach said.<h2>Celebrity sightings</h2>Longtime NBA standout Carmelo Anthony was on the sideline wearing a Colorado Avalanche jersey.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CUBuffsFootball/status/1845300543486402843">Kevin Durant showed</a>&nbsp;up near Colorado's bench, too. The Phoenix Suns play the Denver Nuggets in a preseason game Sunday night.Also on hand was Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State: At West Virginia next Saturday.

🏈Johnson throws for winning TD as No. 18 K-State beats Colorado

BY JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post Contributor

The high-powered Southeast of Saline offense may have put up their usual numbers on Friday night with 448 yards of total and scoring in the mid 30s, but the defense truly shined, as the Trojans ousted Hillsboro by a score of 36-8.&nbsp;

With this result, Southeast remains perfect at 6-0 while Hillsboro falls to 2-4.

The stingy, purple unit held Hillsboro to just 116 yards of total offense, holding them 3-13 on third-down conversions, while Drew Weller claimed two fumble recoveries and Tucker Thaxton grabbed an interception.

Things weren’t always pretty for the SES offense, with three turnovers of their own, but Amarion Holub had another stellar night as he completed the hat trick, scoring three rushing touchdowns, gaining 107 yards on 18 carries, and hauling in a reception for 15 yards.

“I’m going to give hats off to Hillsboro,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Their kids played their butts off. I thought we were better in the second half. Our&nbsp;kids played physically on the defensive side.”

Gannon Jacobson led the SES offense with 124 rushing yards on 15 carries, while Kanyon Douglas hauled in 4 receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown,&nbsp;

On defense, Douglas and Watkins led the tackle chart with 10 tackles each.

Southeast will host Halstead next Friday as they remain unbeaten on the season&nbsp;and advance to 6-0 overall, and 2-0 in district play, while Hillsboro drops to 2-4 overall and will travel to Lyons.

You can watch the broadcast of last night's game any time on-demand below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728748516980.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post ContributorThe high-powered Southeast of Saline offense may have put up their usual numbers on Friday night with 448 yards of total and scoring in the mid 30s, but the defense truly shined, as the Trojans ousted Hillsboro by a score of 36-8.&nbsp;With this result, Southeast remains perfect at 6-0 while Hillsboro falls to 2-4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The stingy, purple unit held Hillsboro to just 116 yards of total offense, holding them 3-13 on third-down conversions, while Drew Weller claimed two fumble recoveries and Tucker Thaxton grabbed an interception.Things weren’t always pretty for the SES offense, with three turnovers of their own, but Amarion Holub had another stellar night as he completed the hat trick, scoring three rushing touchdowns, gaining 107 yards on 18 carries, and hauling in a reception for 15 yards.“I’m going to give hats off to Hillsboro,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Their kids played their butts off. I thought we were better in the second half. Our&nbsp;kids played physically on the defensive side.”Gannon Jacobson led the SES offense with 124 rushing yards on 15 carries, while Kanyon Douglas hauled in 4 receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown,&nbsp;On defense, Douglas and Watkins led the tackle chart with 10 tackles each.Southeast will host Halstead next Friday as they remain unbeaten on the season&nbsp;and advance to 6-0 overall, and 2-0 in district play, while Hillsboro drops to 2-4 overall and will travel to Lyons.You can watch the broadcast of last night's game any time on-demand below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vq96W1C440Q?start=4287s"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Southeast defense comes up big in victory over Hillsboro

By ADAM COULTER Salina Post Contributor

Sacred Heart scored a pair of early touchdowns and never looked back in a 31-12 win over Bennington on Friday night.&nbsp;

A 47-yard touchdown pass from Maddox Wells to Noah Hines gave the Knights an early 6-0 lead with 6:15 to go in the opening quarter. Carson Lehman tacked on a 2-point conversation to make the score 8-0.

Less than three minutes of gametime later, Sacred Heart struck again. A pitch from Wells to Bryson Gotti followed by a 55-yard strike to Lehman extended the lead to 14-0 with 3:28 remaining in the first quarter. Hines added another 2-point conversation as the Knights went on top 16-0.

That would be the last scoring play until midway through the third quarter. Bennington closed the gap to 16-6 as Logan Gillett caught a 5-yard touchdown pass from Payge Rodenbeek. The 2-point conversation was unsuccessful and Sacred Heart held a 10-point lead with 5:51 to go.

The Knights scored their first of two fourth quarter touchdowns with 10:50 remaining in the game. Dominic Matteucci rushed for an 8-yard score and added a 2-point conversation making the score 24-6.

The Bulldogs then found the end zone once more as Isaiah Garrett caught a 4-yard touchdown pass to make the score 24-12 with 9:31 left on the clock. Again, the 2-point conversation was no good.

Finally, a 1-yard carry by Matteucci and PAT with 1:12 to go made the final score 31-12.

Sacred Heart improves to 1-4 overall and 1-1 in district play. Bennington falls to 0-6 and 0-3 in the district.

The Knights return to the road next Friday night at Herington with a 7pm kickoff. As always, the game can be seen and heard at <a href="http://salinapost.com/">salinapost.com</a>.

You can watch the full broadcast of last night's game below.

By ADAM COULTER Salina Post ContributorSacred Heart scored a pair of early touchdowns and never looked back in a 31-12 win over Bennington on Friday night.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>A 47-yard touchdown pass from Maddox Wells to Noah Hines gave the Knights an early 6-0 lead with 6:15 to go in the opening quarter. Carson Lehman tacked on a 2-point conversation to make the score 8-0.Less than three minutes of gametime later, Sacred Heart struck again. A pitch from Wells to Bryson Gotti followed by a 55-yard strike to Lehman extended the lead to 14-0 with 3:28 remaining in the first quarter. Hines added another 2-point conversation as the Knights went on top 16-0.That would be the last scoring play until midway through the third quarter. Bennington closed the gap to 16-6 as Logan Gillett caught a 5-yard touchdown pass from Payge Rodenbeek. The 2-point conversation was unsuccessful and Sacred Heart held a 10-point lead with 5:51 to go.The Knights scored their first of two fourth quarter touchdowns with 10:50 remaining in the game. Dominic Matteucci rushed for an 8-yard score and added a 2-point conversation making the score 24-6.The Bulldogs then found the end zone once more as Isaiah Garrett caught a 4-yard touchdown pass to make the score 24-12 with 9:31 left on the clock. Again, the 2-point conversation was no good.Finally, a 1-yard carry by Matteucci and PAT with 1:12 to go made the final score 31-12.Sacred Heart improves to 1-4 overall and 1-1 in district play. Bennington falls to 0-6 and 0-3 in the district.The Knights return to the road next Friday night at Herington with a 7pm kickoff. As always, the game can be seen and heard at <a href="http://salinapost.com/">salinapost.com</a>.You can watch the full broadcast of last night's game below.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SSjrct-fXTE?start=1210s"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Sacred Heart returns home and notches first win against Bennington

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball visited the other athletic facility named after the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation in the Kansas Conference on Friday night and came away happy.

The Coyotes dominated the Avila Eagles in straight sets 25-10, 25-15, 25-13 inside Avila's Mabee Fieldhouse on Friday night.

The Mabee Foundation has played a prominent role in fundraising for many organizations by providing 'challenge' grants to help these organizations complete projects in a timely fashion.

It was a dominating performance by the Coyotes. KWU hit .386 for the match, while Avila hit negative at -.010; KWU had 55 offensive points, Avila had 28; KWU had 41 kills, Avila had 24; KWU had eight blocks, Avila had zero; KWU had 41 digs, Avila had 27.

The Coyotes opened the match with a 4-1 lead, but Avila was back within two points at 6-4. Then it was all Coyotes. Five straight points from KWU capped by a <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4dec8b45-568c-49e8-bea3-b27d15e3317e?elinkdata=13416">Gianna Adriaanse</a> kill made it 11-4, and after the teams traded points to make it 12-6, KWU rolled off another six straight to make it 18-6. Avila got three in a row, but KWU finished the set on a 7-1 run to take the set 25-10.

Avila scored the first point of the second set, but before anyone could take a breath, Wesleyan sprinted out to an 8-2 lead. The teams traded 2-point runs back and forth until the Coyotes scored six of seven points to take a 16-6 lead. KWU led 21-14 before closing the set scoring four of the last five points to win 25-15.

Avila jumped out to a 4-1 lead in the third set, but the Coyotes quickly climbed back into it, tying things at 6-6 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/16289766-220e-459f-8bb3-fd324bca3cdb?elinkdata=13416">Tristyn Hedman's</a> service ace. Avila took a 7-6 lead, but then here came the Coyotes. KWU scored 12 straight points to take total control of the set at 18-7. The Eagles scored three of the next four, but then the Coyotes were at it again, scoring five of the next six to take a 24-11 lead. After two Avila points, the Coyotes closed it out with a kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8ac0e064-5515-4a68-8836-c8dd8ff4b16a?elinkdata=13416">Rylee Serpan</a>.

Serpan led a balanced attack for the Coyotes with nine kills, while <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/78ac115a-201f-48d6-82f1-eb5b44489391?elinkdata=13416">Kylee Harris</a> had eight, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/938236d6-cb28-4246-bc9f-e48da2a50ffb?elinkdata=13416">Kyla Moore</a> six, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2be76837-60c3-48d2-9154-f9c1e2d75620?elinkdata=13416">Sara Bebout</a> five and Adriaanse four. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6264ed44-73eb-4a6d-b4b9-55e5381a31f6?elinkdata=13416">Josie Deckinger</a> had 13 assists as the Coyotes used three different setters in the match and ran different offensive sets in the match as well. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/09c4cbb1-e945-4f6d-80f5-c2ca91e514d2?elinkdata=13416">Kate Bebout</a> had three blocks and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1b5ba444-d1ba-4c63-a866-3eb8bcf21268?elinkdata=13416">Savannah Koga</a> had four assist blocks. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1b431a5-5232-42a0-933c-4f47a2731cd3?elinkdata=13416">Kori Arnold</a> had 13 digs.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball visited the other athletic facility named after the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation in the Kansas Conference on Friday night and came away happy.The Coyotes dominated the Avila Eagles in straight sets 25-10, 25-15, 25-13 inside Avila's Mabee Fieldhouse on Friday night.The Mabee Foundation has played a prominent role in fundraising for many organizations by providing 'challenge' grants to help these organizations complete projects in a timely fashion.It was a dominating performance by the Coyotes. KWU hit .386 for the match, while Avila hit negative at -.010; KWU had 55 offensive points, Avila had 28; KWU had 41 kills, Avila had 24; KWU had eight blocks, Avila had zero; KWU had 41 digs, Avila had 27.The Coyotes opened the match with a 4-1 lead, but Avila was back within two points at 6-4. Then it was all Coyotes. Five straight points from KWU capped by a <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4dec8b45-568c-49e8-bea3-b27d15e3317e?elinkdata=13416">Gianna Adriaanse</a> kill made it 11-4, and after the teams traded points to make it 12-6, KWU rolled off another six straight to make it 18-6. Avila got three in a row, but KWU finished the set on a 7-1 run to take the set 25-10.Avila scored the first point of the second set, but before anyone could take a breath, Wesleyan sprinted out to an 8-2 lead. The teams traded 2-point runs back and forth until the Coyotes scored six of seven points to take a 16-6 lead. KWU led 21-14 before closing the set scoring four of the last five points to win 25-15.Avila jumped out to a 4-1 lead in the third set, but the Coyotes quickly climbed back into it, tying things at 6-6 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/16289766-220e-459f-8bb3-fd324bca3cdb?elinkdata=13416">Tristyn Hedman's</a> service ace. Avila took a 7-6 lead, but then here came the Coyotes. KWU scored 12 straight points to take total control of the set at 18-7. The Eagles scored three of the next four, but then the Coyotes were at it again, scoring five of the next six to take a 24-11 lead. After two Avila points, the Coyotes closed it out with a kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8ac0e064-5515-4a68-8836-c8dd8ff4b16a?elinkdata=13416">Rylee Serpan</a>.Serpan led a balanced attack for the Coyotes with nine kills, while <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/78ac115a-201f-48d6-82f1-eb5b44489391?elinkdata=13416">Kylee Harris</a> had eight, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/938236d6-cb28-4246-bc9f-e48da2a50ffb?elinkdata=13416">Kyla Moore</a> six, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2be76837-60c3-48d2-9154-f9c1e2d75620?elinkdata=13416">Sara Bebout</a> five and Adriaanse four. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6264ed44-73eb-4a6d-b4b9-55e5381a31f6?elinkdata=13416">Josie Deckinger</a> had 13 assists as the Coyotes used three different setters in the match and ran different offensive sets in the match as well. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/09c4cbb1-e945-4f6d-80f5-c2ca91e514d2?elinkdata=13416">Kate Bebout</a> had three blocks and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1b5ba444-d1ba-4c63-a866-3eb8bcf21268?elinkdata=13416">Savannah Koga</a> had four assist blocks. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1b431a5-5232-42a0-933c-4f47a2731cd3?elinkdata=13416">Kori Arnold</a> had 13 digs.

Coyotes dominate Eagles in straight sets

For the first time, both Kansas Wesleyan Women's and Men's Cross Country teams are ranked in the NAIA Top 25 polls at the same time.

"This group has really pushed the program forward and it's pleasing to see the raters take notice," KWU head coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1efc37b0-4b9e-4093-9227-7edb1f93a3c6?elinkdata=13393">Garrett Young</a> said. "We have had incredible support from the administration and it's put our program in a really great position to be successful."

The women held steady at No. 18 in the second rating of the season that was released on October 3 after being ranked in the first rating of the season on September 26. KWU received votes in the preseason rating, sitting at the No. 28 position if the rating extended beyond the Top 25.

The rating marks the first time the Coyotes have appeared in the NAIA Top 25 since the 2010 season when KWU was ranked as high as No. 9 in the country.

The Coyotes are led by local talent <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2d2d4bb3-f235-408c-a6b3-d1793ac6709d?elinkdata=13393">Madisyn Ehrlich</a>, who has been the top finisher at both meets this season. Along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91e16737-e2cc-4bf0-b15d-20b4a8b0fabf?elinkdata=13393">Kierra Jensen</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/483111f9-cce8-4229-9972-2f8b0cd4e249?elinkdata=13393">Charlee Lind</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1d45c224-651f-4be4-a7b9-1c50e673871e?elinkdata=13393">Alayna Behrman</a> who have all been in the top five for the Coyotes this season.

"We have four different All-Americans on our roster, but only one graduating senior in the bunch. It's a young group but they've made some really incredible strides and should surprise some people in November," Young said.

On the men's side, after receiving votes in last season's preseason rating, KWU jumped into the rankings for the entire regular season, debuting at No. 24 and reaching as high as No. 20 in the next to last rating of the season.

The Coyotes went on to finish second at the KCAC Championships and earn the team's first NAIA Nationals bid since 2016. KWU went on to finish 14th at the NAIA National Championships, setting a new high-water mark for a team finish at the National Championships.

Fast forward a year and the Coyotes are right there amongst the nation's best again. KWU opened the year ranked No. 14 in the NAIA Preseason Rating, and are currently No. 16 in the latest rating, which was released October 3.

For the first time, both Kansas Wesleyan Women's and Men's Cross Country teams are ranked in the NAIA Top 25 polls at the same time."This group has really pushed the program forward and it's pleasing to see the raters take notice," KWU head coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1efc37b0-4b9e-4093-9227-7edb1f93a3c6?elinkdata=13393">Garrett Young</a> said. "We have had incredible support from the administration and it's put our program in a really great position to be successful."The women held steady at No. 18 in the second rating of the season that was released on October 3 after being ranked in the first rating of the season on September 26. KWU received votes in the preseason rating, sitting at the No. 28 position if the rating extended beyond the Top 25.The rating marks the first time the Coyotes have appeared in the NAIA Top 25 since the 2010 season when KWU was ranked as high as No. 9 in the country.The Coyotes are led by local talent <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2d2d4bb3-f235-408c-a6b3-d1793ac6709d?elinkdata=13393">Madisyn Ehrlich</a>, who has been the top finisher at both meets this season. Along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/91e16737-e2cc-4bf0-b15d-20b4a8b0fabf?elinkdata=13393">Kierra Jensen</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/483111f9-cce8-4229-9972-2f8b0cd4e249?elinkdata=13393">Charlee Lind</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1d45c224-651f-4be4-a7b9-1c50e673871e?elinkdata=13393">Alayna Behrman</a> who have all been in the top five for the Coyotes this season."We have four different All-Americans on our roster, but only one graduating senior in the bunch. It's a young group but they've made some really incredible strides and should surprise some people in November," Young said.On the men's side, after receiving votes in last season's preseason rating, KWU jumped into the rankings for the entire regular season, debuting at No. 24 and reaching as high as No. 20 in the next to last rating of the season.The Coyotes went on to finish second at the KCAC Championships and earn the team's first NAIA Nationals bid since 2016. KWU went on to finish 14th at the NAIA National Championships, setting a new high-water mark for a team finish at the National Championships.Fast forward a year and the Coyotes are right there amongst the nation's best again. KWU opened the year ranked No. 14 in the NAIA Preseason Rating, and are currently No. 16 in the latest rating, which was released October 3.Wesleyan's top 5 has been consistent through both competitions this season with fifth-year athlete <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fac78e3f-915b-4a62-a7e3-b9602d05f366?elinkdata=13393">Austin Hess</a> leading the way, followed by returning All-American <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/381d7bbe-4028-4156-bbf0-dde113d5382c?elinkdata=13393">Damion Jackson</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fe035bb2-0561-4aa3-ab16-75549149813f?elinkdata=13393">Julian Avila</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2392cd57-9260-4a99-8d97-1022f871812c?elinkdata=13393">Giovanni Rios</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/56a391c9-18ef-4741-8fc8-378de139e777?elinkdata=13393">Jake Cruz</a>."We have a really experienced group for the first time in my tenure," Young said. "Like the women, we have four different NAIA All-Americans between cross country and track. I think this group really wants to prove that last year wasn't a fluke and that this is a Top 10 program."Wesleyan is back on the course this weekend, heading to Columbia, Missouri to run in the Brian T. Simpson Invitational, hosted by the University of Missouri-St. Louis.