Hello and happy Monday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

Despite one of the most pedestrian performances of Patrick Mahomes career, the Kansas City Chiefs managed to squeak out a victory on Sunday, as Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal with time expiring to deliver the Chiefs a 26-25 victory.

On the final drive, Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony was called for pass interference, delivering the Chiefs new life on a fourth and 15.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 151 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, while Isaiah Pacheco, who left Arrowhead on crutches and in a walking boot, added over 100 yards of total offense.

The Chiefs hit the road to take on the Falcons in primetime next week on Sunday Night Football.

It was a less fortunate outcome for the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes, who suffered their worst regular season loss since 2016 on Saturday in a 44-14 rout.

To add insult to injury, quarterback Byron McNair suffered an injury on a second-half sack and did not return to the game. His status remains up in the air ahead of a matchup with Friends this Saturday

And finally, the Kansas City Royals were able to take two out of three from the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend as the Pirates avoided the sweep on Sunday.

Bobby Witt Jr. crossed the 100 RBI threshold on Friday, and the Royals maintain their 2.5 game lead for the ALs second Wild Card spot.

That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

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 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wHv8fTs_7LA"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Monday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________Despite one of the most pedestrian performances of Patrick Mahomes career, the Kansas City Chiefs managed to squeak out a victory on Sunday, as Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal with time expiring to deliver the Chiefs a 26-25 victory.On the final drive, Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony was called for pass interference, delivering the Chiefs new life on a fourth and 15.Patrick Mahomes threw for 151 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, while Isaiah Pacheco, who left Arrowhead on crutches and in a walking boot, added over 100 yards of total offense.The Chiefs hit the road to take on the Falcons in primetime next week on Sunday Night Football._________It was a less fortunate outcome for the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes, who suffered their worst regular season loss since 2016 on Saturday in a 44-14 rout.To add insult to injury, quarterback Byron McNair suffered an injury on a second-half sack and did not return to the game. His status remains up in the air ahead of a matchup with Friends this Saturday_________And finally, the Kansas City Royals were able to take two out of three from the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend as the Pirates avoided the sweep on Sunday.Bobby Witt Jr. crossed the 100 RBI threshold on Friday, and the Royals maintain their 2.5 game lead for the ALs second Wild Card spot._________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

910 KINA Sports Headlines — September 16

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal as time expired and the Kansas City Chiefs, kept alive by a pass interference call on Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony on fourth down in the final minute, rallied to beat Cincinnati 26-25 on Sunday.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 151 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, but it was his incomplete pass to Rashee Rice on fourth-and-16 from the Kansas City 35 that turned out to be decisive. Anthony arrived a split-second early and hit Rice from behind with his body, and flags flew with 38 seconds remaining as the crowd in Arrowhead Stadium erupted.

The penalty came just after the Chiefs had a long gain on fourth down wiped out by a penalty of their own.

The pass interference call moved the Chiefs to the Cincinnati 36, and the Chiefs ran a couple of plays to bleed the clock for the big-legged Butker, who turned around and started walking off the field even before his kick went through the uprights.

Joe Burrow threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, both to Andrei Iosivas, as the Bengals (0-2) came up empty against one of their biggest nemeses for the third straight time. That includes a loss to Kansas City in the AFC championship game.

Chamarri Conner returned a fumble 37 yards for a touchdown for the Chiefs, and big offensive tackle Wanya Morris — who had the penalty that nearly cost them in the final minute — had a touchdown reception on a day full of bizarre plays.

It was the second win for Kansas City decided on the final play after its 27-20 victory over Baltimore on opening night.

The Chiefs struggled in their first game with Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, who had nine catches for 111 yards and a score. And with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins absent with an ailing hamstring, Burrow leaned heavily on his own tight ends — Drew Sample, Mike Gesicki and rookie Erick All Jr. — to move an offense that never got going last weekend against New England.

Sample and Gesicki accounted for most of the yardage on an opening drive that produced a field goal. A few minutes later, after Mahomes was picked by Akeem Davis-Gaither, All's catch helped set up Iosivas' touchdown reception.

Mahomes eventually atoned for the interception when he found Rice over the outstretched fingers of Cam Taylor-Britt for a tying 44-yard touchdown pass. But otherwise, Andy Reid's potent offense was stuck in neutral and trailed 16-10 at the half.

All that and the hijinks were just beginning.

The Chiefs pulled ahead early in the second half, when Mahomes popped a pass to his 310-pound tackle-eligible Morris for a touchdown. The Bengals answered on fourth-and-goal when Burrow connected with Iosivas for a second time, only to see Burrow get stripped a few minutes later and Conner return the fumble 37 yards for another touchdown.

Evan McPherson's fourth field goal gave the Bengals a 25-23 lead with 5:12 to go, and their defense gave them the ball back. But the Chiefs forced a punt with 2:59 remaining, giving Mahomes and Co. the opportunity to decide the game.

Bengals: DT B.J. Hill (hamstring) left in the second quarter. DT Sheldon Rankins (hamstring) left in the fourth.

Cincinnati returns home to play Washington on Sept. 23.

Kansas City heads to Atlanta on Sunday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726444020143.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) scrambles as Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) and cornerback Dax Hill (23) defend during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) scrambles as Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) and cornerback Dax Hill (23) defend during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Harrison Butker kicked a 51-yard field goal as time expired and the Kansas City Chiefs, kept alive by a pass interference call on Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony on fourth down in the final minute, rallied to beat Cincinnati 26-25 on Sunday.Patrick Mahomes threw for 151 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, but it was his incomplete pass to Rashee Rice on fourth-and-16 from the Kansas City 35 that turned out to be decisive. Anthony arrived a split-second early and hit Rice from behind with his body, and flags flew with 38 seconds remaining as the crowd in Arrowhead Stadium erupted.The penalty came just after the Chiefs had a long gain on fourth down wiped out by a penalty of their own.The pass interference call moved the Chiefs to the Cincinnati 36, and the Chiefs ran a couple of plays to bleed the clock for the big-legged Butker, who turned around and started walking off the field even before his kick went through the uprights.Joe Burrow threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, both to Andrei Iosivas, as the Bengals (0-2) came up empty against one of their biggest nemeses for the third straight time. That includes a loss to Kansas City in the AFC championship game.Chamarri Conner returned a fumble 37 yards for a touchdown for the Chiefs, and big offensive tackle Wanya Morris — who had the penalty that nearly cost them in the final minute — had a touchdown reception on a day full of bizarre plays.It was the second win for Kansas City decided on the final play after its 27-20 victory over Baltimore on opening night.The Chiefs struggled in their first game with Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, who had nine catches for 111 yards and a score. And with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins absent with an ailing hamstring, Burrow leaned heavily on his own tight ends — Drew Sample, Mike Gesicki and rookie Erick All Jr. — to move an offense that never got going last weekend against New England.Sample and Gesicki accounted for most of the yardage on an opening drive that produced a field goal. A few minutes later, after Mahomes was picked by Akeem Davis-Gaither, All's catch helped set up Iosivas' touchdown reception.Mahomes eventually atoned for the interception when he found Rice over the outstretched fingers of Cam Taylor-Britt for a tying 44-yard touchdown pass. But otherwise, Andy Reid's potent offense was stuck in neutral and trailed 16-10 at the half.All that and the hijinks were just beginning.The Chiefs pulled ahead early in the second half, when Mahomes popped a pass to his 310-pound tackle-eligible Morris for a touchdown. The Bengals answered on fourth-and-goal when Burrow connected with Iosivas for a second time, only to see Burrow get stripped a few minutes later and Conner return the fumble 37 yards for another touchdown.Evan McPherson's fourth field goal gave the Bengals a 25-23 lead with 5:12 to go, and their defense gave them the ball back. But the Chiefs forced a punt with 2:59 remaining, giving Mahomes and Co. the opportunity to decide the game.<h2>Injuries</h2>Bengals: DT B.J. Hill (hamstring) left in the second quarter. DT Sheldon Rankins (hamstring) left in the fourth.<h2>Up next</h2>Cincinnati returns home to play Washington on Sept. 23.Kansas City heads to Atlanta on Sunday night.

🏈 Butker hits 51-yard winner after penalty on Bengals safety keeps Chiefs alive

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Isiah Kiner-Falefa had three hits, including a go-ahead single in the fifth inning, as the Pittsburgh Pirates avoided a three-game sweep with a 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Billy Cook lined a single to left to start the fifth and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AlexJStumpf/status/1835395599278948756">scored from first on a hit and run</a>&nbsp;when Kiner-Falefa shot one to center past a diving Bobby Witt Jr. at short to put the Pirates ahead 3-2. Kiner-Falefa also singled in the first and sixth innings.

“Billy never hesitates. He never breaks stride,” Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton said. “We get a run on a groundball to center field just because of the fact of his awareness. Outstanding.”

Kansas City's Brady Singer (9-11), who gave up four runs on six hits and four walks with six strikeouts in five innings, later walked Rowdy Tellez with the bases loaded to bring the Pittsburgh lead to 4-2.

“In the fifth, (Singer) just kind of lost command a little bit there,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Unlike him. But overall, I thought his stuff was fine, just his command was a little bit off.”

Carmen Mlodzinski (3-5) pitched a perfect fifth inning in relief of Pirates starter Jared Jones, who allowed two runs and six hits in the first four. Aroldis Chapman struck out one in a perfect ninth for his ninth save.

The Royals, four games back of first-place Cleveland in the AL Central, had the bases loaded with two outs in the sixth. Colin Holderman walked Witt Jr. to bring in a run but Dennis Santana entered to get Salvador Perez to fly out and limit the damage.

“We needed to capitalize more,” Quatraro said. “We put a lot of pressure on them. We drove up the pitch count early. We had baserunners in several innings and just couldn't come up with the big hit to really take the lead or break it open.”

Bryan Reynolds gave the Pirates an initial lead on a double into the left-field corner after Kiner-Falefa led off the first with a base hit.

Yuli Gurriel tied it 1-1 on a sacrifice fly in the second after Kansas City started the inning with a Paul DeJong single between two walks.

Tommy Pham opened the third with a triple off the top of the Clemente Wall in right.

Witt Jr. then flew out to Cook,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Pirates/status/1835384264319275295">whose throw home from right field beat Pham to preserve the tie</a>. It came from near the line to the right of a No. 21 etched into the outfield grass on Roberto Clemente Day, observed across the majors.

“It was great seeing the 21 and, I think, even more special because it was just out in right field,” said Cook, who wore Clemente's No. 21 along with his Pirates teammates. “He played an amazing right field. To just be able to play the game the right way out there as a tribute to him while wearing the number, really special.”

Gurriel and Maikel Garcia hit consecutive one-out doubles to put the Royals ahead 2-1 the next inning.

Oneil Cruz led off the Pirates’ half of the fourth with a single and scored the tying run when Nick Gonzales grounded to third with the bases loaded.

Royals: RHP Seth Lugo (16-8, 2.94 ERA) will start Monday to open a three-game home series against the Tigers. Detroit has not announced a starter.

Pirates: Rookie RHP Paul Skenes (10-2, 2.10) will take the mound Monday to start a four-game series in St. Louis, opposite Cardinals RHP Andre Pallante (6-8, 4.13).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726442056981.jpeg" alt="Pittsburgh Pirates' Isiah Kiner-Falefa, lower right, scores on a double by Bryan Reynolds past Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez, left, with umpire Ryan Wills, upper right, watching the play during the first inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)" />
 <figcaption>Pittsburgh Pirates' Isiah Kiner-Falefa, lower right, scores on a double by Bryan Reynolds past Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez, left, with umpire Ryan Wills, upper right, watching the play during the first inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)</figcaption>
 </figure>PITTSBURGH (AP) — Isiah Kiner-Falefa had three hits, including a go-ahead single in the fifth inning, as the Pittsburgh Pirates avoided a three-game sweep with a 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.Billy Cook lined a single to left to start the fifth and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AlexJStumpf/status/1835395599278948756">scored from first on a hit and run</a>&nbsp;when Kiner-Falefa shot one to center past a diving Bobby Witt Jr. at short to put the Pirates ahead 3-2. Kiner-Falefa also singled in the first and sixth innings.“Billy never hesitates. He never breaks stride,” Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton said. “We get a run on a groundball to center field just because of the fact of his awareness. Outstanding.”Kansas City's Brady Singer (9-11), who gave up four runs on six hits and four walks with six strikeouts in five innings, later walked Rowdy Tellez with the bases loaded to bring the Pittsburgh lead to 4-2.“In the fifth, (Singer) just kind of lost command a little bit there,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Unlike him. But overall, I thought his stuff was fine, just his command was a little bit off.”Carmen Mlodzinski (3-5) pitched a perfect fifth inning in relief of Pirates starter Jared Jones, who allowed two runs and six hits in the first four. Aroldis Chapman struck out one in a perfect ninth for his ninth save.The Royals, four games back of first-place Cleveland in the AL Central, had the bases loaded with two outs in the sixth. Colin Holderman walked Witt Jr. to bring in a run but Dennis Santana entered to get Salvador Perez to fly out and limit the damage.“We needed to capitalize more,” Quatraro said. “We put a lot of pressure on them. We drove up the pitch count early. We had baserunners in several innings and just couldn't come up with the big hit to really take the lead or break it open.”Bryan Reynolds gave the Pirates an initial lead on a double into the left-field corner after Kiner-Falefa led off the first with a base hit.Yuli Gurriel tied it 1-1 on a sacrifice fly in the second after Kansas City started the inning with a Paul DeJong single between two walks.Tommy Pham opened the third with a triple off the top of the Clemente Wall in right.Witt Jr. then flew out to Cook,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Pirates/status/1835384264319275295">whose throw home from right field beat Pham to preserve the tie</a>. It came from near the line to the right of a No. 21 etched into the outfield grass on Roberto Clemente Day, observed across the majors.“It was great seeing the 21 and, I think, even more special because it was just out in right field,” said Cook, who wore Clemente's No. 21 along with his Pirates teammates. “He played an amazing right field. To just be able to play the game the right way out there as a tribute to him while wearing the number, really special.”Gurriel and Maikel Garcia hit consecutive one-out doubles to put the Royals ahead 2-1 the next inning.Oneil Cruz led off the Pirates’ half of the fourth with a single and scored the tying run when Nick Gonzales grounded to third with the bases loaded.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Seth Lugo (16-8, 2.94 ERA) will start Monday to open a three-game home series against the Tigers. Detroit has not announced a starter.Pirates: Rookie RHP Paul Skenes (10-2, 2.10) will take the mound Monday to start a four-game series in St. Louis, opposite Cardinals RHP Andre Pallante (6-8, 4.13).

⚾ Kiner-Falefa has 3 hits to lead Pirates past Royals, avoid series sweep

Southwestern quarterback Braden Howell threw for three touchdowns, ran for two more and Southwestern took advantage of Kansas Wesleyan's mistakes enroute to a 44-14 Kansas Conference victory Saturday night at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.

KWU fell to 1-2 with the loss while Southwestern improved to 3-0 and won the Bishop's Cup for the fifth consecutive year.

Southwestern led 17-7 at halftime and pulled away in the second half, outscoring the Coyotes 27-7. The Moundbuilders finished with 436 total yards (236 passing, 200 rushing) on 74 plays while KWU 228 yards (120 rushing, 108 passing) on 49 plays.

"It's embarrassing, I'm embarrassed for sure when we get beat like this," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b35c3b81-94c2-4da0-826d-01a2811436bc?elinkdata=12197">Matt Myers</a> said on his postgame radio show. "We kind of unraveled, we need to look in the mirror and get better. That's the only thing we can do, just go back to practice this week and get better."

Trailing 10-0 early in the second quarter the Coyotes scored quickly following <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3d74d035-fb5f-475a-9f7e-40eaaaae4407?elinkdata=12197">Zarek Fewell's</a> 54-yard kickoff return. KWU drove 45 yards on four plays, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d398e1dd-0205-4748-a531-5d0d0ac55cf6?elinkdata=12197">Luke Armstrong</a> scoring from the 6-yard line with 11:47 left in the half.

Disaster arrived soon after, though. A bad snap from center sailed over punter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c1f4514c-a92a-49b5-9e4d-657fa1c3a6a3?elinkdata=12197">Griffin Wiltse's</a> head to the goal line. Wiltse retrieved it but his desperation kick went out of bounds at the KWU 14 and Southwestern scored five plays later for a 17-7 lead with 6:17 left in the half.

The Coyotes drove to the Southwestern 20-yard line on their first drive of the second half, but Armstrong fumbled after a six-yard gain and the Moundbuilders recovered at the 9.

A short Wiltse punt on KWU's next possession gave Southwestern the ball at the Coyotes' 39 and the Moundbuilders scored four plays later on Christian Steward's 14-yard run making it 24-7 with 5:02 left in the third quarter.

Armstrong broke loose for a 21-yard run on Wesleyan's next drive but fumbled at the Southwestern 27 and the Moundbuilders recovered at the 31. They scored 10 plays later Howell's 24-yard pass to Jaydon Sundgren increasing the lead to 31-17 with 12:10 left in the game.

A miscommunication on the ensuing kickoff allowed Southwestern to pounce on the loose ball at the KWU 18-yard line. Howell threw a touchdown pass to Matthew Holthusen on the first play from scrimmage making it 37-7 with 12:04 left.

KWU was forced to punt on its next possession and Howell hit Holthusen with a 59-yard touchdown pass on the first play with 10:24 left for the Moundbuilders' final points.

The Coyotes scored their second touchdown on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5e1b1312-46d9-4d2d-a919-5e9269dfcbd2?elinkdata=12197">Junior Akintunde's</a> 1-yard run with 3:54 remaining. It capped a 58-yard drive that consisted of 11 running plays and one pass - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d233198a-f273-44d6-a7b0-bcab90f7f628?elinkdata=12197">Richard Lara's</a> 16-yard strike to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/318d3f3f-6877-4e53-afdf-496cee51b4f3?elinkdata=12197">Alexander Elam</a> to the 2-yard line.

Armstrong led the offense with 67 yards rushing on 10 carries (6.7 yards per carry). Starting quarterback <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8849c95f-316a-4a4b-8a19-e51d18f253ff?elinkdata=12197">Byron McNair</a> was 4 of 11 passing for 86 yards before exiting with an injury in the third quarter. Lara was 2 of 3 for 22 yards.

"We need to be able to rely on the run game and make sure that we win the ground game," Myers said, "but we have to be better in the pass game too. We've got to be able to throw the ball down the field and protect and that wasn't quite there tonight."

Howell, a senior, was 18 of 26 for 213 yards and the three TDs. J.B. Burnett had 114 yards rushing on 21 carries and Holthusen six receptions for 114 yards.

"They got 436 yards on 74 plays - they weren't killing us with big plays until late," Myers said. "We can't be out there getting the life sucked out of us for too many of those drives."

The Coyotes play No. 21-ranked Friends at 6 p.m. next Saturday at Adair-Austin Stadium in Wichita. The Falcons (3-0) defeated Avila 56-10 Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri.

Southwestern quarterback Braden Howell threw for three touchdowns, ran for two more and Southwestern took advantage of Kansas Wesleyan's mistakes enroute to a 44-14 Kansas Conference victory Saturday night at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.KWU fell to 1-2 with the loss while Southwestern improved to 3-0 and won the Bishop's Cup for the fifth consecutive year.Southwestern led 17-7 at halftime and pulled away in the second half, outscoring the Coyotes 27-7. The Moundbuilders finished with 436 total yards (236 passing, 200 rushing) on 74 plays while KWU 228 yards (120 rushing, 108 passing) on 49 plays."It's embarrassing, I'm embarrassed for sure when we get beat like this," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b35c3b81-94c2-4da0-826d-01a2811436bc?elinkdata=12197">Matt Myers</a> said on his postgame radio show. "We kind of unraveled, we need to look in the mirror and get better. That's the only thing we can do, just go back to practice this week and get better."Trailing 10-0 early in the second quarter the Coyotes scored quickly following <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3d74d035-fb5f-475a-9f7e-40eaaaae4407?elinkdata=12197">Zarek Fewell's</a> 54-yard kickoff return. KWU drove 45 yards on four plays, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d398e1dd-0205-4748-a531-5d0d0ac55cf6?elinkdata=12197">Luke Armstrong</a> scoring from the 6-yard line with 11:47 left in the half.Disaster arrived soon after, though. A bad snap from center sailed over punter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c1f4514c-a92a-49b5-9e4d-657fa1c3a6a3?elinkdata=12197">Griffin Wiltse's</a> head to the goal line. Wiltse retrieved it but his desperation kick went out of bounds at the KWU 14 and Southwestern scored five plays later for a 17-7 lead with 6:17 left in the half.The Coyotes drove to the Southwestern 20-yard line on their first drive of the second half, but Armstrong fumbled after a six-yard gain and the Moundbuilders recovered at the 9.A short Wiltse punt on KWU's next possession gave Southwestern the ball at the Coyotes' 39 and the Moundbuilders scored four plays later on Christian Steward's 14-yard run making it 24-7 with 5:02 left in the third quarter.Armstrong broke loose for a 21-yard run on Wesleyan's next drive but fumbled at the Southwestern 27 and the Moundbuilders recovered at the 31. They scored 10 plays later Howell's 24-yard pass to Jaydon Sundgren increasing the lead to 31-17 with 12:10 left in the game.A miscommunication on the ensuing kickoff allowed Southwestern to pounce on the loose ball at the KWU 18-yard line. Howell threw a touchdown pass to Matthew Holthusen on the first play from scrimmage making it 37-7 with 12:04 left.KWU was forced to punt on its next possession and Howell hit Holthusen with a 59-yard touchdown pass on the first play with 10:24 left for the Moundbuilders' final points.The Coyotes scored their second touchdown on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5e1b1312-46d9-4d2d-a919-5e9269dfcbd2?elinkdata=12197">Junior Akintunde's</a> 1-yard run with 3:54 remaining. It capped a 58-yard drive that consisted of 11 running plays and one pass - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d233198a-f273-44d6-a7b0-bcab90f7f628?elinkdata=12197">Richard Lara's</a> 16-yard strike to <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/318d3f3f-6877-4e53-afdf-496cee51b4f3?elinkdata=12197">Alexander Elam</a> to the 2-yard line.Armstrong led the offense with 67 yards rushing on 10 carries (6.7 yards per carry). Starting quarterback <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8849c95f-316a-4a4b-8a19-e51d18f253ff?elinkdata=12197">Byron McNair</a> was 4 of 11 passing for 86 yards before exiting with an injury in the third quarter. Lara was 2 of 3 for 22 yards."We need to be able to rely on the run game and make sure that we win the ground game," Myers said, "but we have to be better in the pass game too. We've got to be able to throw the ball down the field and protect and that wasn't quite there tonight."Howell, a senior, was 18 of 26 for 213 yards and the three TDs. J.B. Burnett had 114 yards rushing on 21 carries and Holthusen six receptions for 114 yards."They got 436 yards on 74 plays - they weren't killing us with big plays until late," Myers said. "We can't be out there getting the life sucked out of us for too many of those drives."The Coyotes play No. 21-ranked Friends at 6 p.m. next Saturday at Adair-Austin Stadium in Wichita. The Falcons (3-0) defeated Avila 56-10 Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri.

Football falls to Southwestern 44-14 in Bishop's Cup Game

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. drove in his 100th run of the season with a solo homer in the first inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-1 on Saturday.

Witt also hit a sacrifice fly in the fifth and a run-scoring double in the sixth. He went 2 for 3 to raise his MLB-leading batting average to .333. He also has 31 homers and 102 RBIs.

“It’s hard to set personal goals because you never know what might happen during the season,” Witt said. “So, I just take it day by day, play the game and let things happen on their own. But 100 RBIs does mean a lot. I’m happy to be able to do that.”

Michael Wacha (13-7) gave up one run in five innings to improve to 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA in 13 starts since the beginning of July. He allowed four hits, walked three and struck out eight.

“The first two innings were really efficient then in the third inning they started working some walks and long counts, working some good ABs and really made me work,” Wacha said. “I wish I could have gone a little deeper, but the bullpen came in and did a great job.”

John Schreiber, Sam Long, James McArthur, Kris Bubic and Lucas Erceg combined for four innings of five-hit ball for Kansas City.

The Royals won for the seventh time in nine games since a seven-game losing streak as they try to reach the postseason for the first time since winning the World Series in 2015. The Royals also assured themselves of their first winning season since 2015 by raising their record to 82-67.

“It really doesn’t mean that much to me,” manager Matt Quatraro said of having a winning record after going 56-106 last season. “Our guys have set the bar much higher than that. They’ve wanted to win the division since the first day of spring training and we might need 90-some wins to do that.”

Kansas City began the day with a 2½-game lead over Minnesota for the second AL wild card. The Royals trailed first-place Cleveland by three games in the AL Central.

The Royals had five stolen bases, three by Maikol Garcia and two by Kyle Isbel.

Mitch Keller (11-10) lost for the fifth time in his last six decisions, allowing four runs — three earned — and four hits with six strikeouts and one walk. The Pirates made three errors behind Keller.

“We gave up a couple runs that were situations he couldn’t control,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said. “I didn’t think he had his best stuff, but I thought he was able to grind through it and continue to get outs.”

After Witt staked the Royals to the early 1-0 lead, the Royals scored twice in the fifth. Adam Frazier tripled past diving center field Oneil Cruz and scored on Garcia’s double before Witt hit a sacrifice fly.

The Pirates scored their lone run in the fifth on an RBI single by Cruz. They are 14-24 since Aug. 4.

Kansas City’s Michael Massey doubled and scored on third baseman Jared Triolo’s error in the fifth. Witt’s RBI double in the sixth that was misplayed by Cruz made it 5-1.

Bryan Reynolds and Triolo each had two hits for the Pirates.

Royals: RHP Chris Stratton (right forearm flexor strain) was placed on the 15-day injured list and LHP Angel Zerpa was recalled from Triple-A Omaha. Stratton will undergo imaging Monday when the Royals return home from their road trip.

The series concludes Sunday with Royals RHP Brady Singer (9-10, 3.42 ERA) facing rookie RHP Jared Jones (6-7, 3.82 ERA). Singer is 1-4 with a 5.17 ERA in his last seven starts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726355257593.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>PITTSBURGH (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. drove in his 100th run of the season with a solo homer in the first inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-1 on Saturday.Witt also hit a sacrifice fly in the fifth and a run-scoring double in the sixth. He went 2 for 3 to raise his MLB-leading batting average to .333. He also has 31 homers and 102 RBIs.“It’s hard to set personal goals because you never know what might happen during the season,” Witt said. “So, I just take it day by day, play the game and let things happen on their own. But 100 RBIs does mean a lot. I’m happy to be able to do that.”Michael Wacha (13-7) gave up one run in five innings to improve to 9-1 with a 2.68 ERA in 13 starts since the beginning of July. He allowed four hits, walked three and struck out eight.“The first two innings were really efficient then in the third inning they started working some walks and long counts, working some good ABs and really made me work,” Wacha said. “I wish I could have gone a little deeper, but the bullpen came in and did a great job.”John Schreiber, Sam Long, James McArthur, Kris Bubic and Lucas Erceg combined for four innings of five-hit ball for Kansas City.The Royals won for the seventh time in nine games since a seven-game losing streak as they try to reach the postseason for the first time since winning the World Series in 2015. The Royals also assured themselves of their first winning season since 2015 by raising their record to 82-67.“It really doesn’t mean that much to me,” manager Matt Quatraro said of having a winning record after going 56-106 last season. “Our guys have set the bar much higher than that. They’ve wanted to win the division since the first day of spring training and we might need 90-some wins to do that.”Kansas City began the day with a 2½-game lead over Minnesota for the second AL wild card. The Royals trailed first-place Cleveland by three games in the AL Central.The Royals had five stolen bases, three by Maikol Garcia and two by Kyle Isbel.Mitch Keller (11-10) lost for the fifth time in his last six decisions, allowing four runs — three earned — and four hits with six strikeouts and one walk. The Pirates made three errors behind Keller.“We gave up a couple runs that were situations he couldn’t control,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said. “I didn’t think he had his best stuff, but I thought he was able to grind through it and continue to get outs.”After Witt staked the Royals to the early 1-0 lead, the Royals scored twice in the fifth. Adam Frazier tripled past diving center field Oneil Cruz and scored on Garcia’s double before Witt hit a sacrifice fly.The Pirates scored their lone run in the fifth on an RBI single by Cruz. They are 14-24 since Aug. 4.Kansas City’s Michael Massey doubled and scored on third baseman Jared Triolo’s error in the fifth. Witt’s RBI double in the sixth that was misplayed by Cruz made it 5-1.Bryan Reynolds and Triolo each had two hits for the Pirates.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Chris Stratton (right forearm flexor strain) was placed on the 15-day injured list and LHP Angel Zerpa was recalled from Triple-A Omaha. Stratton will undergo imaging Monday when the Royals return home from their road trip.UP NEXTThe series concludes Sunday with Royals RHP Brady Singer (9-10, 3.42 ERA) facing rookie RHP Jared Jones (6-7, 3.82 ERA). Singer is 1-4 with a 5.17 ERA in his last seven starts.

⚾ Bobby Witt Jr. passes 100 RBIs for the season; Royals beat the Pirates

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

The Abilene Cowboys were back with a vengeance on Friday night, dominating their biggest rival to win the Battle of Dickinson County in a 42-8 rout.

With this win, Abilene improves to 1-1 while Chapman falls to 1-1.

The Cowboys wasted no time setting the tone, scoring on their opening drive thanks to a 73-yard Taygen Funston touchdown run.

Funston’s debut as Abilene’s starting quarterback would be a rousing success, as the junior tallied four total touchdowns, including three on the ground by the end of the day.

An Abilene fumble at their own 15 set Chapman up in great field position, but the Cowboy defense stood tall, forcing a turnover on downs to reclaim the ball.

That stop would lead to Abilene’s longest drive of the day, capped off by Funston’s second rushing score, this time from 24 yards out.

Lane Hoekman got in on the fun in the second quarter, housing a 45-yard carry up the gut to put the Cowboys in front 21-0.

While most of Funston’s damage came on the ground, the junior also proved his deadliness through the air, delivering a perfect 43-yard touchdown strike to Weston Rock despite throwing on the run and absorbing contact on his release.

Funston and Heath Hoekman would add one more rushing touchdown each before all was said and done, capping off a stretch of seven scores on eight drives for 42 unanswered points.

The Irish would prevent the shutout as Audiel Becker capped off a long drive from the 2, but the damage was done as Abilene rolled to their third-straight win over Chapman in as many years.

The Cowboys will return home next week to face Concordia (0-2), while Chapman remains on the road in Riley County (2-0).

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Abilene Cowboys were back with a vengeance on Friday night, dominating their biggest rival to win the Battle of Dickinson County in a 42-8 rout.With this win, Abilene improves to 1-1 while Chapman falls to 1-1.<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 Cowboys wasted no time setting the tone, scoring on their opening drive thanks to a 73-yard Taygen Funston touchdown run.Funston’s debut as Abilene’s starting quarterback would be a rousing success, as the junior tallied four total touchdowns, including three on the ground by the end of the day.An Abilene fumble at their own 15 set Chapman up in great field position, but the Cowboy defense stood tall, forcing a turnover on downs to reclaim the ball.That stop would lead to Abilene’s longest drive of the day, capped off by Funston’s second rushing score, this time from 24 yards out.Lane Hoekman got in on the fun in the second quarter, housing a 45-yard carry up the gut to put the Cowboys in front 21-0.While most of Funston’s damage came on the ground, the junior also proved his deadliness through the air, delivering a perfect 43-yard touchdown strike to Weston Rock despite throwing on the run and absorbing contact on his release.Funston and Heath Hoekman would add one more rushing touchdown each before all was said and done, capping off a stretch of seven scores on eight drives for 42 unanswered points.The Irish would prevent the shutout as Audiel Becker capped off a long drive from the 2, but the damage was done as Abilene rolled to their third-straight win over Chapman in as many years.The Cowboys will return home next week to face Concordia (0-2), while Chapman remains on the road in Riley County (2-0).

Four scores from Funston push Abilene past Irish

By JEREMY OBERMYER Salina Post Contributor

Southeast of Saline, ranked #1 in Class 2A by the KFBCA, traveled to Clay Center to take on the Tigers (3A) in an early season matchup between two heavyweights.&nbsp;

With both teams 1-0, coming off lopsided week one victories, many billed this as a high-caliber match up, and from the opening kick to the final horn, this game did not disappoint.

When all was said and done, the Trojans would hold on to win a 22-20 thriller.

Clay Center struck first on a 4-yard pass from Cole Pladson to Jace Welle to claim the game’s first lead at 7-0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Trojans answered right back on a 13 play 58-yard drive capped off by a 10-yard touchdown pass from Gannon Jacobson to Tucker Thaxton, but failed the 2-point try.

Not to be outdone, Clay Center took their next drive to paydirt, scoring on a 1-yard Weston Hammond run to take the 14-6 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Southeast followed up with an 18-yard Jacobson to Thaxton touchdown pass, this time converting the 2-point try to tie the game at 14 a piece.&nbsp;

After that it was time for the defenses to shine as neither team scored again until the 1:06 mark of the third quarter when Jacobson and Thaxton connected for a third time on a 9 yard pass.&nbsp;

On their third two-point attempt, Jacobson ran to the right pylon to give the Trojans first lead at 22-14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With 2:40 left in the game, the Tigers answered on a 2-yard run from Cole Pladson to make the score 24-22, but the Trojan defense came up big and stopped the 2-point attempt to secure the Southeast victory.

Southeast had a total of 383 yards with Grady Gebhardt leading the rushing attack with 161 yards on 33 carries. Meanwhile, Thaxton led all receivers with 11 catches for 119 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Jacobson completed 19 of 26 passes for 185 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception.

Next week, Southeast will host 2-0 Beloit while Clay Center will travel to Louisburg to take on the 2-0 Wildcats.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726324585278.jpeg" alt="Gannon Jacobson fires a pass to Evan Watkins against Clay Center. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Obermyer." />
 <figcaption>Gannon Jacobson fires a pass to Evan Watkins against Clay Center. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Obermyer.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JEREMY OBERMYER Salina Post ContributorSoutheast of Saline, ranked #1 in Class 2A by the KFBCA, traveled to Clay Center to take on the Tigers (3A) in an early season matchup between two heavyweights.&nbsp;With both teams 1-0, coming off lopsided week one victories, many billed this as a high-caliber match up, and from the opening kick to the final horn, this game did not disappoint.When all was said and done, the Trojans would hold on to win a 22-20 thriller.<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>Clay Center struck first on a 4-yard pass from Cole Pladson to Jace Welle to claim the game’s first lead at 7-0.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Trojans answered right back on a 13 play 58-yard drive capped off by a 10-yard touchdown pass from Gannon Jacobson to Tucker Thaxton, but failed the 2-point try.Not to be outdone, Clay Center took their next drive to paydirt, scoring on a 1-yard Weston Hammond run to take the 14-6 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;Southeast followed up with an 18-yard Jacobson to Thaxton touchdown pass, this time converting the 2-point try to tie the game at 14 a piece.&nbsp;After that it was time for the defenses to shine as neither team scored again until the 1:06 mark of the third quarter when Jacobson and Thaxton connected for a third time on a 9 yard pass.&nbsp;On their third two-point attempt, Jacobson ran to the right pylon to give the Trojans first lead at 22-14.&nbsp;&nbsp;With 2:40 left in the game, the Tigers answered on a 2-yard run from Cole Pladson to make the score 24-22, but the Trojan defense came up big and stopped the 2-point attempt to secure the Southeast victory.Southeast had a total of 383 yards with Grady Gebhardt leading the rushing attack with 161 yards on 33 carries. Meanwhile, Thaxton led all receivers with 11 catches for 119 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Jacobson completed 19 of 26 passes for 185 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception.Next week, Southeast will host 2-0 Beloit while Clay Center will travel to Louisburg to take on the 2-0 Wildcats.

Trojans outlast Tigers in epic battle

Area HS Football Scores: Week Two

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, really Hollywood (Brown) is the only injured player that I mentioned, everybody else practiced today and did a nice job with it. Listen, our thoughts and prayers are with Hollywood. He is a great kid, boy I’ll tell you, and nobody wanted to do this more than he did so our hearts go out to him. He’ll get himself back and ready to go down the road here whenever that time is. We don’t know exactly how long that will be, but it does take a pretty extended amount of time to take place. Other than that, listen, we look forward to playing the Bengals. Just that challenge of playing a good football team. Just like we felt with the Ravens, we know you have to play four quarters against these guys. They’re very well coached. Every game we’ve had has come right down to the end. Our guys have prepared themselves that way and so that’s what – we look forward obviously to bringing them in here to GEHA Field at Arrowhead (Stadium) one more time. Anyways, with that, time’s yours.”

Q: Do you think Hollywood Brown can come back and play later in the season?

REID:&nbsp;“You know Adam (Teicher), the reason we say it is everybody is a little different and this thing, there are not a lot of these that we have information on. We just have to ride it out and see how long it takes. It’s not going to be weeks, (it will be) more like months and so we’ll see where that takes us in this process. That’s the information we have but we’re just going to have to hold tight on that.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like you have help at wide receiver without Hollywood Brown or do you feel like you’ll have to look around for someone?

REID:&nbsp;“We’d love to have him. I think you know that, but on the other hand, I think we’ve got some good guys, yeah. That’s probably where we’re – we’ve got some depth there and feel good about that.”

Q:&nbsp;What were you seeing out of Hollywood Brown before this injury occurred?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (Hollywood Brown) did – he had a tremendous training camp, and he was as excited as we were to get him in there. Listen, things happen in this sport. It’s kind of a freak thing. It’s almost ridiculous that it happened to (Miami Dolphins WR) Tyreek (Hill) – and him, same place, they had the same docs (doctors). Next time we play down there, I’m not going to use any receivers.”

Q: What does it mean to you that the franchise has invested in you and recognized all the work you’ve done?

GRAY: “I’m extremely grateful. I can’t thank God enough, I can’t thank (Chiefs Chairman &amp; CEO) Clark Hunt and the Hunt family enough, this organization, (the) front office, coaches (and) teammates. Just really everybody that I’ve been fortunate enough to be in contact with these past three years (and) play with. It’s just an absolute blessing and I’m just super grateful that I’m back here for the foreseeable future.”

Q: I understand you’ve done a lot of community service work this offseason. Can you elaborate on all that you’ve done?

GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, we do a lot with the local churches that I am apart of (like) the New Life CityChurch downtown (Kansas City and) St. John Paul (II Catholic Church) – my wife (Mary Elise Gray) is Catholic, so we got out there and (are) just doing work within that community. I’m a type-1 diabetic, so making sure I’m doing work for the great type-1 diabetes community that we have here in Kansas City. It always warms my heart seeing type-1’s at the games and supporting me and my teammates. Then my wife actually helps work with (the) Mo-Kan Border Collie Rescue where they help raise awareness for Border Collies that need homes – need foster homes (and) transporting dogs so, I love that aspect that she is working with too. So, just trying to stay involved in an absolutely phenomenal community in Kansas City is super important and I’m just grateful to be a part of such an amazing community.”

Q: Do the Bengals offer anything different this year and does this upcoming game get you hyped up due to seeing them a lot over the last few years?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesSeptember 13, 2024HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, really Hollywood (Brown) is the only injured player that I mentioned, everybody else practiced today and did a nice job with it. Listen, our thoughts and prayers are with Hollywood. He is a great kid, boy I’ll tell you, and nobody wanted to do this more than he did so our hearts go out to him. He’ll get himself back and ready to go down the road here whenever that time is. We don’t know exactly how long that will be, but it does take a pretty extended amount of time to take place. Other than that, listen, we look forward to playing the Bengals. Just that challenge of playing a good football team. Just like we felt with the Ravens, we know you have to play four quarters against these guys. They’re very well coached. Every game we’ve had has come right down to the end. Our guys have prepared themselves that way and so that’s what – we look forward obviously to bringing them in here to GEHA Field at Arrowhead (Stadium) one more time. Anyways, with that, time’s yours.”Q: Do you think Hollywood Brown can come back and play later in the season?REID:&nbsp;“You know Adam (Teicher), the reason we say it is everybody is a little different and this thing, there are not a lot of these that we have information on. We just have to ride it out and see how long it takes. It’s not going to be weeks, (it will be) more like months and so we’ll see where that takes us in this process. That’s the information we have but we’re just going to have to hold tight on that.”Q:&nbsp;Do you feel like you have help at wide receiver without Hollywood Brown or do you feel like you’ll have to look around for someone?REID:&nbsp;“We’d love to have him. I think you know that, but on the other hand, I think we’ve got some good guys, yeah. That’s probably where we’re – we’ve got some depth there and feel good about that.”Q:&nbsp;What were you seeing out of Hollywood Brown before this injury occurred?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (Hollywood Brown) did – he had a tremendous training camp, and he was as excited as we were to get him in there. Listen, things happen in this sport. It’s kind of a freak thing. It’s almost ridiculous that it happened to (Miami Dolphins WR) Tyreek (Hill) – and him, same place, they had the same docs (doctors). Next time we play down there, I’m not going to use any receivers.”Chiefs Player QuotesSeptember 13, 2024TE NOAH GRAYQ: What does it mean to you that the franchise has invested in you and recognized all the work you’ve done?GRAY: “I’m extremely grateful. I can’t thank God enough, I can’t thank (Chiefs Chairman &amp; CEO) Clark Hunt and the Hunt family enough, this organization, (the) front office, coaches (and) teammates. Just really everybody that I’ve been fortunate enough to be in contact with these past three years (and) play with. It’s just an absolute blessing and I’m just super grateful that I’m back here for the foreseeable future.”Q: I understand you’ve done a lot of community service work this offseason. Can you elaborate on all that you’ve done?GRAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, we do a lot with the local churches that I am apart of (like) the New Life CityChurch downtown (Kansas City and) St. John Paul (II Catholic Church) – my wife (Mary Elise Gray) is Catholic, so we got out there and (are) just doing work within that community. I’m a type-1 diabetic, so making sure I’m doing work for the great type-1 diabetes community that we have here in Kansas City. It always warms my heart seeing type-1’s at the games and supporting me and my teammates. Then my wife actually helps work with (the) Mo-Kan Border Collie Rescue where they help raise awareness for Border Collies that need homes – need foster homes (and) transporting dogs so, I love that aspect that she is working with too. So, just trying to stay involved in an absolutely phenomenal community in Kansas City is super important and I’m just grateful to be a part of such an amazing community.”Q: Do the Bengals offer anything different this year and does this upcoming game get you hyped up due to seeing them a lot over the last few years?

Chiefs Quotes: 9-14-24

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State delivered Arizona a rude welcome to the Big 12 on Friday night.

Even if it won't count in the conference standings.

Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes, Dylan Edwards returned a punt 71 yards for a score, and No. 14 Kansas State shut out No. 20 Arizona in the second half of a 31-7 victory in a rare nonconference matchup of new Big 12 rivals rivals.

The loss ended Arizona’s nine-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

“I don't know what we're trying to prove to everyone else. We're trying to prove to ourselves that we can sustain this and play at a high level,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “That was a great week of preparation. Now we have to do it again.”

The schools had agreed to the matchup before Arizona left the Pac-12 for the Big 12. With neither able to secure a replacement opponent, Kansas State and Arizona kept the game but without it counting in the race for the league title game.

Johnson finished with 156 yards passing and 110 yards rushing, and D.J. Giddens added 86 yards rushing and a score, as Kansas State (3-0) rebounded from a lackluster road with over Tulane with an emphatic victory over the desert Wildcats.

“Everybody wanted to get back on the field,” said Jayce Brown, who had three catches for 60 yards. “We wanted to show everybody what we could do.”

Noah Fifita had 268 yards passing for Arizona (2-1) with an interception. Tetairoa McMillan had 11 catches for 138 yards, but the potential first-round NFL draft pick was unable to turn any of those grabs into a big play or touchdown.

“Those guys just play good football,” Arizona coach Brent Brennan said. “They tackle well. They're in coverage, they do a good job. I give that staff a lot of credit. They have a well-coached football team, their kids play really hard. They're impressive.”

The teams traded grinding, time-consuming touchdown drives to start the game, but otherwise the first 30 minutes was plagued by penalties, mental mistakes and dumbfounding miscues from two teams trying to make a statement.

Arizona failed to cover a poor punt that Edwards returned untouched for a touchdown. On the next drive, Fifita lazily threw over the middle into double coverage and was picked off by Kansas State's Keenan Garber in the end zone.

Johnson made perhaps the most embarrassing gaffe. He was sacked at the Arizona 19 with 24 seconds left in the first half. On the next play, the freshman needed only to step out of bounds to stop the clock and bring on the field-goal team, but he instead reversed field and ran the other way, allowing the clock to expire without the chance for an attempt.

“It is all on me at the end of the first half,” Klieman said. “I should have called timeout. That isn't on the kid."

Kansas State still led 14-7 at the break, and the mistake didn't matter in the end.

The fleet-footed Johnson began to sling it in the second half, leading his team on back-to-back TD drives. The first featured a 48-yard pass to Jayce Brown on third-and-12, setting up Johnson's scoring toss to Brayden Loftin. The next included a 21-yard throw to Loftin before Giddens plowed into the end zone to give Kansas State a 28-7 lead.

Kansas State stuffed Arizona on fourth down a few minutes later, and merely had to run out the fourth quarter.

“(Johnson) is a pretty good player, and he rose up tonight when we needed him,” Klieman said. “He played really good football and was really calm, and made some plays with his feet. Made some plays with his legs. That was a fun performance to watch.”

Arizona might have fared better had it not repeatedly hurt itself with flags. It committed 30 yards worth of penalties on a single drive in the first half, and finished with nine penalties for 74 yards in the game.

Kansas State had something to prove after allowing Tulane to throw for 342 yards and pile up 491 total in last week's 34-27 comeback win. The Wildcats held Arizona to 324 yards of total offense Friday night.

Arizona: At No. 12 Utah on Sept. 28 in the Wildcats' first true Big 12 game.

Kansas State: At BYU next Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726284868191.png" alt="Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arizona Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arizona Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State delivered Arizona a rude welcome to the Big 12 on Friday night.Even if it won't count in the conference standings.Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes, Dylan Edwards returned a punt 71 yards for a score, and No. 14 Kansas State shut out No. 20 Arizona in the second half of a 31-7 victory in a rare nonconference matchup of new Big 12 rivals rivals.The loss ended Arizona’s nine-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the Football Bowl Subdivision.“I don't know what we're trying to prove to everyone else. We're trying to prove to ourselves that we can sustain this and play at a high level,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “That was a great week of preparation. Now we have to do it again.”The schools had agreed to the matchup before Arizona left the Pac-12 for the Big 12. With neither able to secure a replacement opponent, Kansas State and Arizona kept the game but without it counting in the race for the league title game.Good thing for Arizona.Johnson finished with 156 yards passing and 110 yards rushing, and D.J. Giddens added 86 yards rushing and a score, as Kansas State (3-0) rebounded from a lackluster road with over Tulane with an emphatic victory over the desert Wildcats.“Everybody wanted to get back on the field,” said Jayce Brown, who had three catches for 60 yards. “We wanted to show everybody what we could do.”Noah Fifita had 268 yards passing for Arizona (2-1) with an interception. Tetairoa McMillan had 11 catches for 138 yards, but the potential first-round NFL draft pick was unable to turn any of those grabs into a big play or touchdown.“Those guys just play good football,” Arizona coach Brent Brennan said. “They tackle well. They're in coverage, they do a good job. I give that staff a lot of credit. They have a well-coached football team, their kids play really hard. They're impressive.”The teams traded grinding, time-consuming touchdown drives to start the game, but otherwise the first 30 minutes was plagued by penalties, mental mistakes and dumbfounding miscues from two teams trying to make a statement.Arizona failed to cover a poor punt that Edwards returned untouched for a touchdown. On the next drive, Fifita lazily threw over the middle into double coverage and was picked off by Kansas State's Keenan Garber in the end zone.Johnson made perhaps the most embarrassing gaffe. He was sacked at the Arizona 19 with 24 seconds left in the first half. On the next play, the freshman needed only to step out of bounds to stop the clock and bring on the field-goal team, but he instead reversed field and ran the other way, allowing the clock to expire without the chance for an attempt.“It is all on me at the end of the first half,” Klieman said. “I should have called timeout. That isn't on the kid."Kansas State still led 14-7 at the break, and the mistake didn't matter in the end.The fleet-footed Johnson began to sling it in the second half, leading his team on back-to-back TD drives. The first featured a 48-yard pass to Jayce Brown on third-and-12, setting up Johnson's scoring toss to Brayden Loftin. The next included a 21-yard throw to Loftin before Giddens plowed into the end zone to give Kansas State a 28-7 lead.Kansas State stuffed Arizona on fourth down a few minutes later, and merely had to run out the fourth quarter.“(Johnson) is a pretty good player, and he rose up tonight when we needed him,” Klieman said. “He played really good football and was really calm, and made some plays with his feet. Made some plays with his legs. That was a fun performance to watch.”<h2>The takeaway</h2>Arizona might have fared better had it not repeatedly hurt itself with flags. It committed 30 yards worth of penalties on a single drive in the first half, and finished with nine penalties for 74 yards in the game.Kansas State had something to prove after allowing Tulane to throw for 342 yards and pile up 491 total in last week's 34-27 comeback win. The Wildcats held Arizona to 324 yards of total offense Friday night.<h2>Up next</h2>Arizona: At No. 12 Utah on Sept. 28 in the Wildcats' first true Big 12 game.Kansas State: At BYU next Saturday night.

🏈 Avery Johnson helps No. 14 K-State dump Arizona

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Salvador Perez and Kyle Isbel hit home runs and drove in two runs each, Alec Marsh struck out 11 in 5 1/3 innings, and the Kansas City Royals snapped Pittsburgh's four-game winning streak with an 8-3 victory over the Pirates on Friday night.

Perez’s two-run shot to the bullpens in left-center capped a six-run second inning when the Royals broke a scoreless tie. Isbel’s solo homer in the fourth pushed the lead to 7-0. Adam Frazier added a solo home run in the eighth.

Marsh (8-8) allowed only one run and the 11 strikeouts matched a career high. It was the second-year right-hander's first win since July 10.

The Royals had lost two of three games to the Yankees earlier in the week in New York but had a 1 1/2-game lead over Minnesota for the second American League wild card entering the game. With Cleveland's loss on Friday, the second-place Royals pulled within three games of the Guardians on the AL Central.

The Pirates fell to 14-23 since Aug. 4, when their record was 56-54 and they were 2 1/2 games out of the National League’s third wild card.

Luis Ortiz (6-6) was tagged for seven runs – four earned – on five hits in four innings. His throwing error on Frazier’s chopper helped set up the Royals’ big second-inning.

Yuli Gurriel hit an RBI single, and Isbel drove in a run with a double before Tommy Pham’s two-run single made it 4-0. After Bobby Witt Jr. struck out, Perez hit his 27th home run of the season while raising his RBI total to 103.

Witt went 1 for 5, dropping his major league leading batting average one point to .332.

The Pirates scored in the sixth when Oneil Cruz doubled and scored on Joey Bart’s single. Bryan Reynolds hit a sacrifice fly and Cruz added an RBI single in the ninth.

Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen (strained left hamstring) allowed one run in 3 1/3 innings on Friday for Triple-A Omaha in his second minor-league outing since going on the injured list on Aug. 28. Lorenzen will likely be activated next week. … RHP Hunter Harvey (tightness in mid-back) has resumed throwing but there is no timetable for his return.

Pirates: LHP Marco Gonzales (strained left forearm) had left flexor tendon repair surgery, and an internal brace placed in his left ulnar collateral ligament. Eligible for free agency after the World Series, Gonzales is expected to miss most of next season. … 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes (lower back inflammation) could begin playing catch next week but the Pirates are unsure if he will return this season.

Royals RHP Michael Wacha (12-7, 3.34 ERA) faces RHP Mitch Keller (11-9, 3.85) on Saturday. Wacha is 11-3 with a 2.62 ERA in his last 19 starts since May 9. Keller has lost four of his last five decisions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726278944155.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>PITTSBURGH (AP) — Salvador Perez and Kyle Isbel hit home runs and drove in two runs each, Alec Marsh struck out 11 in 5 1/3 innings, and the Kansas City Royals snapped Pittsburgh's four-game winning streak with an 8-3 victory over the Pirates on Friday night.Perez’s two-run shot to the bullpens in left-center capped a six-run second inning when the Royals broke a scoreless tie. Isbel’s solo homer in the fourth pushed the lead to 7-0. Adam Frazier added a solo home run in the eighth.Marsh (8-8) allowed only one run and the 11 strikeouts matched a career high. It was the second-year right-hander's first win since July 10.The Royals had lost two of three games to the Yankees earlier in the week in New York but had a 1 1/2-game lead over Minnesota for the second American League wild card entering the game. With Cleveland's loss on Friday, the second-place Royals pulled within three games of the Guardians on the AL Central.The Pirates fell to 14-23 since Aug. 4, when their record was 56-54 and they were 2 1/2 games out of the National League’s third wild card.Luis Ortiz (6-6) was tagged for seven runs – four earned – on five hits in four innings. His throwing error on Frazier’s chopper helped set up the Royals’ big second-inning.Yuli Gurriel hit an RBI single, and Isbel drove in a run with a double before Tommy Pham’s two-run single made it 4-0. After Bobby Witt Jr. struck out, Perez hit his 27th home run of the season while raising his RBI total to 103.Witt went 1 for 5, dropping his major league leading batting average one point to .332.The Pirates scored in the sixth when Oneil Cruz doubled and scored on Joey Bart’s single. Bryan Reynolds hit a sacrifice fly and Cruz added an RBI single in the ninth.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Michael Lorenzen (strained left hamstring) allowed one run in 3 1/3 innings on Friday for Triple-A Omaha in his second minor-league outing since going on the injured list on Aug. 28. Lorenzen will likely be activated next week. … RHP Hunter Harvey (tightness in mid-back) has resumed throwing but there is no timetable for his return.Pirates: LHP Marco Gonzales (strained left forearm) had left flexor tendon repair surgery, and an internal brace placed in his left ulnar collateral ligament. Eligible for free agency after the World Series, Gonzales is expected to miss most of next season. … 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes (lower back inflammation) could begin playing catch next week but the Pirates are unsure if he will return this season.UP NEXTRoyals RHP Michael Wacha (12-7, 3.34 ERA) faces RHP Mitch Keller (11-9, 3.85) on Saturday. Wacha is 11-3 with a 2.62 ERA in his last 19 starts since May 9. Keller has lost four of his last five decisions.___

⚾Perez homers, Marsh strikes out 11 as Royals beat the Pirates 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kylin James scored on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line with 1:51 left to lift UNLV past Kansas 23-20 Friday night at Children's Mercy Park.

The Jayhawks are playing all their games away from Lawrence, Kan., this season because of construction on their stadium.

UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka was just 7-for-18 passing for 86 yards, but he rushed for 113 yards.

Jalon Daniels was 12-for-23 passing for 153 yards, with two interceptions for Kansas (1-2). He had two rushing touchdowns.

Daniels' second interception of the game gave UNLV the ball at the KU 4-yard line, but the Rebels only got a 23-yard field goal from Caden Chittenden.

Kansas answered with a 41-yard field goal by Tabor Allen to stretch the lead to 20-16 in the fourth quarter.

But UNLV (3-0) used a 14-play, 75-yard drive that took 9:31 off the clock to take the late lead.

After forcing an opening three-and-out, Kansas responded with a 12-play, 81-yard touchdown drive, capped by Daniels' 11-yard run. The Rebels responded with an 11-play drive but had to settle for a Chittenden 38-yard field goal.

Daniels then scampered 33 yards, untouched off the right tackle, to cap a 94-yard drive to give Kansas a 14-3 lead early in the second quarter.

Kansas' defense stiffened again, stopping UNLV on third-and-7, forcing a 27-yard field goal by Chittenden. Allen then extended the lead to 17-6 with a 35-yard field goal with 3:17 left in the first half.

Kansas was driving for another score when Daniels threw his fifth interception of the season. It was returned 46 yards to the Kansas 33. With the first-half clock running down, Sluka found Jai'Den Thomas in the flat and Thomas turned it into a 27-yard touchdown with no time left on the clock to pull within 17-13 at halftime.

UNLV: The Rebels need to work on the long passing game. Sluka attempted seven passes of at least 20 yards — several significantly longer — and missed on all seven.

Kansas: Daniels has the talent to be a star, but he has to cut down on the turnovers. He threw one interception in the season opener and had three picks in the loss at Illinois. His first-half pick Friday kept UNLV in the game and his second-half interception set up the Rebels for a chip-shot field goal.

UNLV: The Rebels will open the Mountain West Conference season with a home contest against Fresno State on Sept. 21.

Kansas: The Jayhawks will open Big 12 Conference play with a road contest at West Virginia on Sept. 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726282858713.png" alt="Photo Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kylin James scored on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line with 1:51 left to lift UNLV past Kansas 23-20 Friday night at Children's Mercy Park.The Jayhawks are playing all their games away from Lawrence, Kan., this season because of construction on their stadium.UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka was just 7-for-18 passing for 86 yards, but he rushed for 113 yards.Jalon Daniels was 12-for-23 passing for 153 yards, with two interceptions for Kansas (1-2). He had two rushing touchdowns.Daniels' second interception of the game gave UNLV the ball at the KU 4-yard line, but the Rebels only got a 23-yard field goal from Caden Chittenden.Kansas answered with a 41-yard field goal by Tabor Allen to stretch the lead to 20-16 in the fourth quarter.But UNLV (3-0) used a 14-play, 75-yard drive that took 9:31 off the clock to take the late lead.After forcing an opening three-and-out, Kansas responded with a 12-play, 81-yard touchdown drive, capped by Daniels' 11-yard run. The Rebels responded with an 11-play drive but had to settle for a Chittenden 38-yard field goal.Daniels then scampered 33 yards, untouched off the right tackle, to cap a 94-yard drive to give Kansas a 14-3 lead early in the second quarter.Kansas' defense stiffened again, stopping UNLV on third-and-7, forcing a 27-yard field goal by Chittenden. Allen then extended the lead to 17-6 with a 35-yard field goal with 3:17 left in the first half.Kansas was driving for another score when Daniels threw his fifth interception of the season. It was returned 46 yards to the Kansas 33. With the first-half clock running down, Sluka found Jai'Den Thomas in the flat and Thomas turned it into a 27-yard touchdown with no time left on the clock to pull within 17-13 at halftime.THE TAKEAWAYUNLV: The Rebels need to work on the long passing game. Sluka attempted seven passes of at least 20 yards — several significantly longer — and missed on all seven.Kansas: Daniels has the talent to be a star, but he has to cut down on the turnovers. He threw one interception in the season opener and had three picks in the loss at Illinois. His first-half pick Friday kept UNLV in the game and his second-half interception set up the Rebels for a chip-shot field goal.UP NEXTUNLV: The Rebels will open the Mountain West Conference season with a home contest against Fresno State on Sept. 21.Kansas: The Jayhawks will open Big 12 Conference play with a road contest at West Virginia on Sept. 21.

🏈  Kylin James' late touchdown run lifts UNLV over Kansas 

Following a resounding week one victory, the Southeast of Saline football team will look to keep the good times rolling as they travel to Clay Center to face the Tigers.

Both teams enter this contest at 1-0 after the Tigers dispatched Abilene 34-7 at home last Friday.

For their part in a week one win, the Trojans dominated Minneapolis, handing the Lions a 64-14 walloping to extend head coach Mitch Gebhardt's perfect run of season-opening victories.

“We’ve got some things to work on, but I felt like our kids were ready for the first game,” Gebhardt said. “We struggled offensively to start out but once we got things going we did a good job, and our defense did a great job in that game.”

Now, the Trojans will turn their attention to a stout Tiger team dead-set on revenge after suffering two of its only six losses over the last two seasons to SES.

“Coach Henry and his staff do a great job and that was a knock-down drag-out game last time,” Gebhardt said. “It’s always a great football game when we play them and it’s a great place to play. They’re going to be physical, they’re going to run the ball hard and their defense is stingy.”

While the Trojan offense got all it needed and more from a 355-yard rushing performance last week, it will likely require more than 88 passing yards to beat a defense of Clay Center’s caliber.

“I know we can but we still need to take a step forward in the passing game,” he said. “We may have to throw the ball more throughout the season but there’s more we can do with the players that we have.”

To keep their absurd streak of over 1,800 days without a regular season loss intact, SES will need a total team effort on the road.

“You have to control the football and continue to get first downs in a game like this,” Gebhardt said. “Turnovers also play a big role but ultimately we have to play sound, make tackles and run to the football on every play.”

Kickoff is set for 7 P.M. with pregame coverage on Salina Post and KINA at 6:40.

You can tune in for live stream video and audio commentary at the link below 100% free on Salina Post.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostFollowing a resounding week one victory, the Southeast of Saline football team will look to keep the good times rolling as they travel to Clay Center to face the Tigers.Both teams enter this contest at 1-0 after the Tigers dispatched Abilene 34-7 at home last Friday.<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>For their part in a week one win, the Trojans dominated Minneapolis, handing the Lions a 64-14 walloping to extend head coach Mitch Gebhardt's perfect run of season-opening victories.“We’ve got some things to work on, but I felt like our kids were ready for the first game,” Gebhardt said. “We struggled offensively to start out but once we got things going we did a good job, and our defense did a great job in that game.”Now, the Trojans will turn their attention to a stout Tiger team dead-set on revenge after suffering two of its only six losses over the last two seasons to SES.“Coach Henry and his staff do a great job and that was a knock-down drag-out game last time,” Gebhardt said. “It’s always a great football game when we play them and it’s a great place to play. They’re going to be physical, they’re going to run the ball hard and their defense is stingy.”While the Trojan offense got all it needed and more from a 355-yard rushing performance last week, it will likely require more than 88 passing yards to beat a defense of Clay Center’s caliber.“I know we can but we still need to take a step forward in the passing game,” he said. “We may have to throw the ball more throughout the season but there’s more we can do with the players that we have.”To keep their absurd streak of over 1,800 days without a regular season loss intact, SES will need a total team effort on the road.“You have to control the football and continue to get first downs in a game like this,” Gebhardt said. “Turnovers also play a big role but ultimately we have to play sound, make tackles and run to the football on every play.”Kickoff is set for 7 P.M. with pregame coverage on Salina Post and KINA at 6:40.You can tune in for live stream video and audio commentary at the link below 100% free on Salina Post.<figure>
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