<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and FOX Sports announced Sunday morning that Kansas State’s Senior Day game against Colorado this Saturday will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on FS1.

This is the first time the Buffaloes are visiting Manhattan since 2009. K-State is 15-17-1 all-time against CU in Manhattan, including wins in each of the last two meetings in 2007 (47-20) and 2009 (20-6).

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and FOX Sports announced Sunday morning that Kansas State’s Senior Day game against Colorado this Saturday will kick at 11 a.m. and be shown on FS1.This is the first time the Buffaloes are visiting Manhattan since 2009. K-State is 15-17-1 all-time against CU in Manhattan, including wins in each of the last two meetings in 2007 (47-20) and 2009 (20-6).

🏈 K-State’s Senior Day Contest Set for Morning Kick

WICHITA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan University had 10 football student-athletes named to the 2025 All-KCAC Football teams, as selected by the conference coaches.

This season, conference coaches decided to select the All-KCAC teams for the entire conference combined instead of in the two divisions. Last season's teams were selected by division, and in 2023 coaches selected the All-KCAC teams by combining the divisions.

Unless otherwise stated, statistical rankings listed below will be within the Bissell Division only, since only divisional statistics are available not full conference statistics on the Presto Sports statistics website for the NAIA.

Defensive lineman <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/75335c86-3fcf-410e-8f38-240f39499d16?elinkdata=33734">CJ Buckhalter</a> was one of five KCAC student-athletes to be earn the Dr. Ted Kessinger Champion of Character Award. The award was started in 2004 following Kessinger's retirement from the sidelines at Bethany College, where he spent 28 seasons leading the Swedes, winning 16 conference championships, and coached with a character-driven approach, recognizes the football student-athlete that best demonstrates the NAIA core values of Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship, Servant Leadership and Integrity.

KWU had two First Team All-KCAC picks in running back <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fc7d19dc-d1bb-473b-888f-722d5c670fba?elinkdata=33734">D'Heaven Domena</a> and linebacker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/975aeaf0-69e8-4736-bfdd-f304869a80bc?elinkdata=33734">Jamison Price</a>.

Domena stepped up when his number was called when <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/493c5d8f-4173-49e3-ab65-fd971c069153?elinkdata=33734">Luke Armstrong</a> went out with an injury in the Bethany game. Domena was a workhorse for the Coyotes carrying the ball 262 times on the season for 1388 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. His total number of rushes led the entire KCAC and ranks second in the NAIA. His rushing yards total is best in the entire KCAC and ranks third in the NAIA. His per game average of 126.2 was tops in the KCAC and ranks fourth best in the NAIA.

Price ranked second in the Bissell Division in total tackles with 81 on the season. He added 8 tackles for loss and had two interceptions as well. He ranked No. 38 in the NAIA in total tackles. He ranked sixth in the KCAC in total tackles.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6e332ac6-e643-48bb-bef9-85aa2cc47cc7?elinkdata=33734">Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/75e4b4aa-c94d-42bb-83da-fcb07b5ec7c8?elinkdata=33734">Juan Luna</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d81672f8-084c-48c0-a63d-263d8568c1fe?elinkdata=33734">Samuel Lanza Ruffino</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/08d1581d-4a87-4994-abfc-129fda222c12?elinkdata=33734">Gavin Skerik</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/869dd46c-3033-4bc6-9b0e-703b2a07ec54?elinkdata=33734">Taylor Collins</a> were named to the All-KCAC second-team.

Lomax-Spivey ranked third in the Bissell Division in receiving yards with 701 yards. He ranked fifth in the division in yards per game at 63.7. His receiving yards total is the most for a KWU receiver since Stevie Williams had 1065 and Eren Jenkins had 932 yards receiving in 2021.

Luna and Lanza Ruffino were part of KWU's offensive line that helped the Coyotes average 397.9 yards per game this season, and they were instrumental in blocking for the top running back in the KCAC. The duo were also key in helping the Coyotes allow only 13 sacks on the season.

Skerik had 44 tackles on the season for the Coyotes, which ranked 27th in the Bissell Division. His six sacks on the season ranked second best in the Division and his 8.5 tackles for loss ranked ninth in the Division. His sack total ranked 27th in the entire NAIA and was sixth best in the entire KCAC conference.

Collins had four interceptions on the season, the second highest total in the Bissell Division. He had 54 tackles which ranked 13th in the Division. He ranks 20th in the entire NAIA in interceptions.

Tight End <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f0ea356b-6082-499c-8ed0-f64ce36a2df6?elinkdata=33734">Mason Ross</a> and linebacker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f4fada4-842a-442c-b8bb-192f4c1261a6?elinkdata=33734">Myles Elam</a> were named to the All-KCAC third-team.

Ross had 19 receptions for the Coyotes on the season for 115 yards and two touchdowns. He ranked No. 22 in the Division in total receptions.

Elam had 66 tackles for the Coyotes this season, which included 2.5 sacks and five tackles for loss. His 66 tackles ranked fifth in the Division.

WICHITA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan University had 10 football student-athletes named to the 2025 All-KCAC Football teams, as selected by the conference coaches.This season, conference coaches decided to select the All-KCAC teams for the entire conference combined instead of in the two divisions. Last season's teams were selected by division, and in 2023 coaches selected the All-KCAC teams by combining the divisions.Unless otherwise stated, statistical rankings listed below will be within the Bissell Division only, since only divisional statistics are available not full conference statistics on the Presto Sports statistics website for the NAIA.Defensive lineman <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/75335c86-3fcf-410e-8f38-240f39499d16?elinkdata=33734">CJ Buckhalter</a> was one of five KCAC student-athletes to be earn the Dr. Ted Kessinger Champion of Character Award. The award was started in 2004 following Kessinger's retirement from the sidelines at Bethany College, where he spent 28 seasons leading the Swedes, winning 16 conference championships, and coached with a character-driven approach, recognizes the football student-athlete that best demonstrates the NAIA core values of Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship, Servant Leadership and Integrity.KWU had two First Team All-KCAC picks in running back <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fc7d19dc-d1bb-473b-888f-722d5c670fba?elinkdata=33734">D'Heaven Domena</a> and linebacker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/975aeaf0-69e8-4736-bfdd-f304869a80bc?elinkdata=33734">Jamison Price</a>.Domena stepped up when his number was called when <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/493c5d8f-4173-49e3-ab65-fd971c069153?elinkdata=33734">Luke Armstrong</a> went out with an injury in the Bethany game. Domena was a workhorse for the Coyotes carrying the ball 262 times on the season for 1388 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. His total number of rushes led the entire KCAC and ranks second in the NAIA. His rushing yards total is best in the entire KCAC and ranks third in the NAIA. His per game average of 126.2 was tops in the KCAC and ranks fourth best in the NAIA.Price ranked second in the Bissell Division in total tackles with 81 on the season. He added 8 tackles for loss and had two interceptions as well. He ranked No. 38 in the NAIA in total tackles. He ranked sixth in the KCAC in total tackles.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6e332ac6-e643-48bb-bef9-85aa2cc47cc7?elinkdata=33734">Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/75e4b4aa-c94d-42bb-83da-fcb07b5ec7c8?elinkdata=33734">Juan Luna</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d81672f8-084c-48c0-a63d-263d8568c1fe?elinkdata=33734">Samuel Lanza Ruffino</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/08d1581d-4a87-4994-abfc-129fda222c12?elinkdata=33734">Gavin Skerik</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/869dd46c-3033-4bc6-9b0e-703b2a07ec54?elinkdata=33734">Taylor Collins</a> were named to the All-KCAC second-team.Lomax-Spivey ranked third in the Bissell Division in receiving yards with 701 yards. He ranked fifth in the division in yards per game at 63.7. His receiving yards total is the most for a KWU receiver since Stevie Williams had 1065 and Eren Jenkins had 932 yards receiving in 2021.Luna and Lanza Ruffino were part of KWU's offensive line that helped the Coyotes average 397.9 yards per game this season, and they were instrumental in blocking for the top running back in the KCAC. The duo were also key in helping the Coyotes allow only 13 sacks on the season.Skerik had 44 tackles on the season for the Coyotes, which ranked 27th in the Bissell Division. His six sacks on the season ranked second best in the Division and his 8.5 tackles for loss ranked ninth in the Division. His sack total ranked 27th in the entire NAIA and was sixth best in the entire KCAC conference.Collins had four interceptions on the season, the second highest total in the Bissell Division. He had 54 tackles which ranked 13th in the Division. He ranks 20th in the entire NAIA in interceptions.Tight End <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f0ea356b-6082-499c-8ed0-f64ce36a2df6?elinkdata=33734">Mason Ross</a> and linebacker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f4fada4-842a-442c-b8bb-192f4c1261a6?elinkdata=33734">Myles Elam</a> were named to the All-KCAC third-team.Ross had 19 receptions for the Coyotes on the season for 115 yards and two touchdowns. He ranked No. 22 in the Division in total receptions.Elam had 66 tackles for the Coyotes this season, which included 2.5 sacks and five tackles for loss. His 66 tackles ranked fifth in the Division.

🏈 Ten Coyotes named to All-KCAC Football teams

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Basketball dropped a 77-64 decision to the No. 13 ranked Oklahoma Wesleyan Eagles on Saturday night at Mueller Sports Complex.

A 14-3 by Oklahoma Wesleyan after the Coyotes had cut the difference to two points to start the second half was enough cushion for the Eagles in the game.

The run made it 50-37 in favor of the Eagles with 15:12 left in the game.

The Coyotes pushed back, cutting the lead to seven at 53-46 with 12:32 left on a bucket by Gabriel Phillips, but KWU got no closer the rest of the night.

KWU fell behind 11-3 to start the game with 16:32 left in the first half.

OKWU led 25-17 with 5:43 left in the first half but the Coyotes would use a 9-1 run to tie things up at 26 on a bucket by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d37ae420-5265-4c83-a4e9-e545851b6556?elinkdata=33699">Caiden Punt</a> with 3:28 to go.

The Coyotes could not grab the lead, and trailed by four at the half at 36-32.

Punt led the Coyotes with 19 points and 12 rebounds. KWU shot 25 of 64 from the field for 39.1 percent, but were just 3 of 24 from 3-point range for 12.5 percent. The Coyotes did outrebound the Eagles 40-38.

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. - Kansas Wesleyan Men's Basketball dropped a 77-64 decision to the No. 13 ranked Oklahoma Wesleyan Eagles on Saturday night at Mueller Sports Complex.A 14-3 by Oklahoma Wesleyan after the Coyotes had cut the difference to two points to start the second half was enough cushion for the Eagles in the game.The run made it 50-37 in favor of the Eagles with 15:12 left in the game.The Coyotes pushed back, cutting the lead to seven at 53-46 with 12:32 left on a bucket by Gabriel Phillips, but KWU got no closer the rest of the night.KWU fell behind 11-3 to start the game with 16:32 left in the first half.OKWU led 25-17 with 5:43 left in the first half but the Coyotes would use a 9-1 run to tie things up at 26 on a bucket by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d37ae420-5265-4c83-a4e9-e545851b6556?elinkdata=33699">Caiden Punt</a> with 3:28 to go.The Coyotes could not grab the lead, and trailed by four at the half at 36-32.Punt led the Coyotes with 19 points and 12 rebounds. KWU shot 25 of 64 from the field for 39.1 percent, but were just 3 of 24 from 3-point range for 12.5 percent. The Coyotes did outrebound the Eagles 40-38.

🏀 Coyote MBB comes up short against No. 13 Oklahoma Wesleyan

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fa95edbc-fe3f-4d35-beac-ef1c36f9b7c9?elinkdata=33664">Paige Chauncey</a> scored 18 points, and the Kansas Wesleyan women ended the game on a 6-1 run enroute to a 62-58 Kansas Conference victory Saturday night.

It was the Coyotes' third consecutive victory and their fifth in the last six games (5-2, 3-0).

Chauncey, a junior forward and the team's lone returning starter, was 7 of 10 from the field, 4 of 5 at the free throw line and had four rebounds and four assists.

"I've been really excited about her progression and just how she's been able to contribute with our team," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4a8db5c3-4b48-4b64-a29c-1c46563637e7?elinkdata=33664">Harper Taylor</a> said on the postgame radio show. "And I feel like her confidence is really helping some of our other players gain that confidence as well. When she goes in it's a dominating force to be reckoned with and I'm really proud of that."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7a8b88cc-37fa-4257-9a15-64f209e87927?elinkdata=33664">Odessa Ozuna</a> added 11 points and five rebounds and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/afbacd9f-0115-4375-8a04-849a5fe530f7?elinkdata=33664">Izzy McCool</a> had 10 points and four rebounds.

A 13-2 OKWU run that bridged the first and second quarters gave the Eagles a 23-12 lead with 6:21 left in the first half.

The Coyotes promptly answered with a 13-0 burst of their own and trailed 28-26 at halftime.

A 7-0 Eagles' run gave them a 37-30 lead with six minutes remaining in the third quarter, but Wesleyan responded with a 16-6 spurt and led 46-43 with 8:02 remaining - the last three points on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/20adf1fc-b759-4617-a030-eb5affab11d9?elinkdata=33664">Adriana DiPrima's</a> 3-pointer.

The game remained close until the final 2½ minutes. Trailing 57-56 <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0584948-0a13-4701-b6f0-0a329a9836f6?elinkdata=33664">Emma Gertken's</a> 3-pointer gave the Coyotes a 59-57 lead and ignited the pivotal last run. Two Ozuna free throws with 10.2 seconds left made it 61-58 and OKWU missed a shot and two free throws in the waning seconds. DiPrima clinched it with a free throw with 1.2 seconds left.

"We're trying to find the open person at the right time," she said. "Some of our timing and pacing is there but I just think as a young team we are still trying to work through a lot of those X's and O's."

The Coyotes shot 47 percent (23 of 49) including 6 of 14 from 3-point range. They were outrebounded 27-25 but had just 10 turnovers and got 28 bench points compared to OKWU's 10.

Gracie Alexander led OKWU (3-3, 0-3) with 16 points. The Eagles shot 45.5 percent (24 of 54), were 5 of 19 from deep and had 12 turnovers.

"Excited about it, ecstatic about it, but I know that we've got a lot to work on," Taylor said. "I am happy with how much fight our team had. I feel like we kind of came out a little bit flat in some different areas but I'm just proud of how they were able to finish."

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fa95edbc-fe3f-4d35-beac-ef1c36f9b7c9?elinkdata=33664">Paige Chauncey</a> scored 18 points, and the Kansas Wesleyan women ended the game on a 6-1 run enroute to a 62-58 Kansas Conference victory Saturday night.It was the Coyotes' third consecutive victory and their fifth in the last six games (5-2, 3-0).Chauncey, a junior forward and the team's lone returning starter, was 7 of 10 from the field, 4 of 5 at the free throw line and had four rebounds and four assists."I've been really excited about her progression and just how she's been able to contribute with our team," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4a8db5c3-4b48-4b64-a29c-1c46563637e7?elinkdata=33664">Harper Taylor</a> said on the postgame radio show. "And I feel like her confidence is really helping some of our other players gain that confidence as well. When she goes in it's a dominating force to be reckoned with and I'm really proud of that."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7a8b88cc-37fa-4257-9a15-64f209e87927?elinkdata=33664">Odessa Ozuna</a> added 11 points and five rebounds and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/afbacd9f-0115-4375-8a04-849a5fe530f7?elinkdata=33664">Izzy McCool</a> had 10 points and four rebounds.A 13-2 OKWU run that bridged the first and second quarters gave the Eagles a 23-12 lead with 6:21 left in the first half.The Coyotes promptly answered with a 13-0 burst of their own and trailed 28-26 at halftime.A 7-0 Eagles' run gave them a 37-30 lead with six minutes remaining in the third quarter, but Wesleyan responded with a 16-6 spurt and led 46-43 with 8:02 remaining - the last three points on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/20adf1fc-b759-4617-a030-eb5affab11d9?elinkdata=33664">Adriana DiPrima's</a> 3-pointer.The game remained close until the final 2½ minutes. Trailing 57-56 <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e0584948-0a13-4701-b6f0-0a329a9836f6?elinkdata=33664">Emma Gertken's</a> 3-pointer gave the Coyotes a 59-57 lead and ignited the pivotal last run. Two Ozuna free throws with 10.2 seconds left made it 61-58 and OKWU missed a shot and two free throws in the waning seconds. DiPrima clinched it with a free throw with 1.2 seconds left.Taylor said her team is still learning."We're trying to find the open person at the right time," she said. "Some of our timing and pacing is there but I just think as a young team we are still trying to work through a lot of those X's and O's."The Coyotes shot 47 percent (23 of 49) including 6 of 14 from 3-point range. They were outrebounded 27-25 but had just 10 turnovers and got 28 bench points compared to OKWU's 10.Gracie Alexander led OKWU (3-3, 0-3) with 16 points. The Eagles shot 45.5 percent (24 of 54), were 5 of 19 from deep and had 12 turnovers."Excited about it, ecstatic about it, but I know that we've got a lot to work on," Taylor said. "I am happy with how much fight our team had. I feel like we kind of came out a little bit flat in some different areas but I'm just proud of how they were able to finish."

🏀 KWU WBB rallies late to get by Oklahoma Wesleyan 62-58, Chauncey scores 18 in win

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for a season-high 352 yards, Kareem Hunt ran for 104 yards and a touchdown, and Harrison Butker's fifth field goal of the game gave the Kansas City Chiefs a come-from-behind 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

Rashee Rice had eight catches for 141 yards, including two crucial ones on the Chiefs' tying touchdown drive in regulation and another in overtime, after Kansas City (6-5) had forced the high-powered Colts (8-3) to punt on a fourth consecutive three-and-out.

Butker ended the game with a 27-yard field goal with just under two minutes left in overtime, potentially keeping the Chiefs' playoff hopes alive. The reigning AFC champions had lost their previous two games, and another defeat against one of the hottest teams in the NFL on Sunday would have left Andy Reid's team needing a whole lot of help to make it back to the postseason.

The Colts blew a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to some questionable play-calling — and some worse execution.

They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in Daniel Jones' hands.

He wound up with 181 yards passing and two touchdowns, but most of that production came in the first half. Jones was just 8 of 18 for 83 yards in the second half, which allowed Mahomes and Co. to mount a comeback that injected some life in a dim season.

Taylor, meanwhile, only carried 16 times for 58 yards in his first game since a record-setting performance against the Falcons, when the Colts' star ran for 244 yards, piled up 286 from scrimmage and reached the end zone three times in an overtime win.

The Chiefs have struggled all season with turnovers at inopportune times, and another set the tone for the first half. Mahomes had a pass from his 4-yard line batted by Laiatu Latu, who brought it in himself for the defensive end's third pick of the season.

Two players later, Jones hit Michael Pittman to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.

The Chiefs answered with the first of two grinding, eight-plus minute first-half drives, but each netted just a field goal. And when the Colts moved briskly downfield again, and Jones found Drew Ogletree in the back of the end zone, they had built a 14-3 advantage.

The Colts were still clinging to 20-9 lead as the game headed to the fourth quarter.

Just as he's done so many times in his career, though, Mahomes mounted another comeback. He marched Kansas City 56 yards before Hunt's touchdown dive, then Mahomes found Rice for a 2-point conversion to close within a field goal with 8 1/2 minutes to go.

The Chiefs defense proceeded to step up, forcing a series of three-and-outs by the league's No. 1 offense.

Kansas City took over after the second one with 4:43 left at its 6. Mahomes hit Rice for 47 yards, then he found him again on fourth-and-3 near midfield for a 19-yard gain. Hunt's dive on third-and-1 gave the Chiefs first down at the Colts 2 with a minute to go, but he was stuffed on the next play, Mahomes threw incomplete on the next, and he was sacked on third down.

Butker banged through his fourth field goal, a 25-yard chip-shot as time expired, to send the game to overtime.

Turned out the Chiefs would give Butker another chance a few minutes later, this time to win the game.

Colts: WR Ashton Dulin left in the second half with a hamstring injury.

Chiefs: LG Trey Smith left in the second half with an ankle injury. TE Noah Gray finished the game in the concussion protocol.

The Chiefs visit the Cowboys on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763990472045.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) kicks a game-winning field goal against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (7) kicks a game-winning field goal against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for a season-high 352 yards, Kareem Hunt ran for 104 yards and a touchdown, and Harrison Butker's fifth field goal of the game gave the Kansas City Chiefs a come-from-behind 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.Rashee Rice had eight catches for 141 yards, including two crucial ones on the Chiefs' tying touchdown drive in regulation and another in overtime, after Kansas City (6-5) had forced the high-powered Colts (8-3) to punt on a fourth consecutive three-and-out.Butker ended the game with a 27-yard field goal with just under two minutes left in overtime, potentially keeping the Chiefs' playoff hopes alive. The reigning AFC champions had lost their previous two games, and another defeat against one of the hottest teams in the NFL on Sunday would have left Andy Reid's team needing a whole lot of help to make it back to the postseason.The Colts blew a 20-9 fourth-quarter lead thanks in part to some questionable play-calling — and some worse execution.They went almost entirely away from running back Jonathan Taylor down the stretch, putting the game instead in Daniel Jones' hands.He wound up with 181 yards passing and two touchdowns, but most of that production came in the first half. Jones was just 8 of 18 for 83 yards in the second half, which allowed Mahomes and Co. to mount a comeback that injected some life in a dim season.Taylor, meanwhile, only carried 16 times for 58 yards in his first game since a record-setting performance against the Falcons, when the Colts' star ran for 244 yards, piled up 286 from scrimmage and reached the end zone three times in an overtime win.The Chiefs have struggled all season with turnovers at inopportune times, and another set the tone for the first half. Mahomes had a pass from his 4-yard line batted by Laiatu Latu, who brought it in himself for the defensive end's third pick of the season.Two players later, Jones hit Michael Pittman to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.The Chiefs answered with the first of two grinding, eight-plus minute first-half drives, but each netted just a field goal. And when the Colts moved briskly downfield again, and Jones found Drew Ogletree in the back of the end zone, they had built a 14-3 advantage.The Colts were still clinging to 20-9 lead as the game headed to the fourth quarter.Just as he's done so many times in his career, though, Mahomes mounted another comeback. He marched Kansas City 56 yards before Hunt's touchdown dive, then Mahomes found Rice for a 2-point conversion to close within a field goal with 8 1/2 minutes to go.The Chiefs defense proceeded to step up, forcing a series of three-and-outs by the league's No. 1 offense.Kansas City took over after the second one with 4:43 left at its 6. Mahomes hit Rice for 47 yards, then he found him again on fourth-and-3 near midfield for a 19-yard gain. Hunt's dive on third-and-1 gave the Chiefs first down at the Colts 2 with a minute to go, but he was stuffed on the next play, Mahomes threw incomplete on the next, and he was sacked on third down.Butker banged through his fourth field goal, a 25-yard chip-shot as time expired, to send the game to overtime.Turned out the Chiefs would give Butker another chance a few minutes later, this time to win the game.<h2>Injuries</h2>Colts: WR Ashton Dulin left in the second half with a hamstring injury.Chiefs: LG Trey Smith left in the second half with an ankle injury. TE Noah Gray finished the game in the concussion protocol.<h2>Up next</h2>The Colts play the Texans next Sunday.The Chiefs visit the Cowboys on Thursday.

🏈 Chiefs rally from 11-point deficit to beat Colts in OT

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Kansas State coach Chris Klieman broke down in tears while reflecting on criticism of his job performance after the Wildcats allowed No. 13 Utah to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-kansas-state-football-score-1f3fbe558f7dad783831ac1926011ce2">rally for a 51-47 win</a>&nbsp;on Saturday.

Klieman, who led the Wildcats to the Big 12 title in 2022, became choked up near the end of his postgame opening statement. Kansas State, considered a contender to win the league this season, fell to 5-6 and needs a win over Colorado next Saturday to become bowl eligible.

Athletic director Gene Taylor walked to the lectern and put his arm around the embattled coach.

“I’ve given my ... life for this place for seven years,” Klieman said. “I’ve given everything for seven years and I think I deserve a little bit of respect.”

Utah scored two touchdowns in the final 2:47 to complete its rally after Kansas State gashed the Utes on the ground all day.

Kansas State ran for a program-record 472 yards and five touchdowns — also a record for an opponent in Rice-Eccles Stadium — while averaging 11.2 yards per carry. Joe Jackson led the way with a school-record 293 yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries.

The last time a Division I team ran for more yards in a loss was on Nov. 18, 2017, when Army had 534 yards rushing in a 52-49 loss to North Texas.

“One of the greatest efforts I’ve been a part of as a coach and it’s hard to say this because we lost the game,” Klieman said. “We’re down so many players and I know a lot of people thought we’d come over here and lay down and that maybe the kids have cast it in because I’ve heard it enough. I’ve heard I’ve cast it in. I’ve heard the players have cast it in. (They say) we need new leadership here. We need to get new players, new coaches. I’m tired of it.”

Jackson broke Darren Sproles' Wildcats single-game rushing record by 1 yard.

By JOHN COON&nbsp; Associated PressSALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Kansas State coach Chris Klieman broke down in tears while reflecting on criticism of his job performance after the Wildcats allowed No. 13 Utah to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-kansas-state-football-score-1f3fbe558f7dad783831ac1926011ce2">rally for a 51-47 win</a>&nbsp;on Saturday.Klieman, who led the Wildcats to the Big 12 title in 2022, became choked up near the end of his postgame opening statement. Kansas State, considered a contender to win the league this season, fell to 5-6 and needs a win over Colorado next Saturday to become bowl eligible.Athletic director Gene Taylor walked to the lectern and put his arm around the embattled coach.“I’ve given my ... life for this place for seven years,” Klieman said. “I’ve given everything for seven years and I think I deserve a little bit of respect.”Utah scored two touchdowns in the final 2:47 to complete its rally after Kansas State gashed the Utes on the ground all day.Kansas State ran for a program-record 472 yards and five touchdowns — also a record for an opponent in Rice-Eccles Stadium — while averaging 11.2 yards per carry. Joe Jackson led the way with a school-record 293 yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries.The last time a Division I team ran for more yards in a loss was on Nov. 18, 2017, when Army had 534 yards rushing in a 52-49 loss to North Texas.“One of the greatest efforts I’ve been a part of as a coach and it’s hard to say this because we lost the game,” Klieman said. “We’re down so many players and I know a lot of people thought we’d come over here and lay down and that maybe the kids have cast it in because I’ve heard it enough. I’ve heard I’ve cast it in. I’ve heard the players have cast it in. (They say) we need new leadership here. We need to get new players, new coaches. I’m tired of it.”Jackson broke Darren Sproles' Wildcats single-game rushing record by 1 yard.

K-State coach Klieman chokes up as he defends job performance after loss 

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Devon Dampier threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more, including&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Utah_Football/status/1992395003990319611">a go-ahead 1-yard score</a>&nbsp;with 56 seconds left, and No. 13 Utah rallied from a 12-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter for a wild 51-47 victory over Kansas State on Saturday.

The game turned on an unusual play. After KSU took a 47-35 lead on Joe Jackson’s third rushing touchdown of the game, the Wildcats went for 2, but Utah’s Tao Johnson intercepted a tipped ball and returned it to the Kansas State end zone for 2 points to make it 47-37.

Dampier’s 20-yard TD toss to Larry Simmons got Utah within 47-44 with 2:47 left. After the Utes forced a punt, Dampier led the winning drive, setting up his go-ahead score with a 59-yard run to the 1 on fourth down.

<a href="https://x.com/Utah_Football/status/1992396075463004167">Lander Barton intercepted Avery Johnson's pass</a>&nbsp;with 49 seconds remaining to seal it for Utah (9-2, 6-2 Big 12, No. 12 CFP), which kept alive its hopes for a league title and a College Football Playoff berth.

Jackson rushed for a school-record 293 yards for Kansas State (5-6, 4-4), topping Darren Sproles' mark of 292 yards set in 2004. The Wildcats finished with a program-record 472 yards rushing, the most by a Division I team in a loss since Army ran for 534 in a 52-49 loss to North Texas on Nov. 18, 2017.

Dampier threw for 259 yards and rushed for 94. Byrd Ficklin rushed for three touchdowns and Wayshawn Parker had 100 yards on 19 carries for Utah, which had 551 yards of offense to 574 for Kansas State.

VJ Payne knocked the ball out of Dampier's hand and Cody Stufflebean recovered the fumble at the Utah 26-yard line to set up Jackson's 24-yard TD rush midway through the fourth.

Dampier found Dallen Bentley for a 38-yard TD reception and Ficklin ran for his third TD to put Utah up 35-31 early in the third quarter. But Johnson threw to Garrett Oakley for a TD on fourth down and Luis Rodriguez added a 36-yard field goal to put KSU ahead 41-35 with 8:51 to play.

Utah’s defensive leader, John Henry Daley,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a8a7711d680f7a0a7ba6a93b304bad70">left the game with a leg injury</a>&nbsp;late in the first quarter, when the defensive end already had two sacks and 3 1/2 tackles for loss. Daley grabbed his leg on a non-contact play and was helped to the locker room.

Accepting coach Chris Klieman’s challenge to play “big boy, physical football,” Kansas State had 348 yards rushing in the first half, including 225 in the second quarter as the Wildcats led 31-21.

Kansas State gashed the Utah defense on its way to five consecutive scoring drives — four TDs and a 22-yard field goal. Jackson gained 236 yards in the first half with TD runs of 66 and 80 yards. Antonio Martin Jr. and Johnson also rushed for scores.

Kansas State: Late in a disappointing season that began with Big 12 title hopes, the Wildcats put together an unforgettable display of power and speed on the ground but let Utah make all the big plays in the final three minutes.

Utah: The Utes' defense was overwhelmed by the Wildcats’ physicality on the line of scrimmage, but they found a way to salvage an unfathomable win, largely thanks to Dampier.

Kansas State hosts Colorado next Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763860049605.png" alt="Photo courtesy Utah Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Utah Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Devon Dampier threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more, including&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Utah_Football/status/1992395003990319611">a go-ahead 1-yard score</a>&nbsp;with 56 seconds left, and No. 13 Utah rallied from a 12-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter for a wild 51-47 victory over Kansas State on Saturday.The game turned on an unusual play. After KSU took a 47-35 lead on Joe Jackson’s third rushing touchdown of the game, the Wildcats went for 2, but Utah’s Tao Johnson intercepted a tipped ball and returned it to the Kansas State end zone for 2 points to make it 47-37.Dampier’s 20-yard TD toss to Larry Simmons got Utah within 47-44 with 2:47 left. After the Utes forced a punt, Dampier led the winning drive, setting up his go-ahead score with a 59-yard run to the 1 on fourth down.<a href="https://x.com/Utah_Football/status/1992396075463004167">Lander Barton intercepted Avery Johnson's pass</a>&nbsp;with 49 seconds remaining to seal it for Utah (9-2, 6-2 Big 12, No. 12 CFP), which kept alive its hopes for a league title and a College Football Playoff berth.Jackson rushed for a school-record 293 yards for Kansas State (5-6, 4-4), topping Darren Sproles' mark of 292 yards set in 2004. The Wildcats finished with a program-record 472 yards rushing, the most by a Division I team in a loss since Army ran for 534 in a 52-49 loss to North Texas on Nov. 18, 2017.Dampier threw for 259 yards and rushed for 94. Byrd Ficklin rushed for three touchdowns and Wayshawn Parker had 100 yards on 19 carries for Utah, which had 551 yards of offense to 574 for Kansas State.VJ Payne knocked the ball out of Dampier's hand and Cody Stufflebean recovered the fumble at the Utah 26-yard line to set up Jackson's 24-yard TD rush midway through the fourth.Dampier found Dallen Bentley for a 38-yard TD reception and Ficklin ran for his third TD to put Utah up 35-31 early in the third quarter. But Johnson threw to Garrett Oakley for a TD on fourth down and Luis Rodriguez added a 36-yard field goal to put KSU ahead 41-35 with 8:51 to play.Utah’s defensive leader, John Henry Daley,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a8a7711d680f7a0a7ba6a93b304bad70">left the game with a leg injury</a>&nbsp;late in the first quarter, when the defensive end already had two sacks and 3 1/2 tackles for loss. Daley grabbed his leg on a non-contact play and was helped to the locker room.Accepting coach Chris Klieman’s challenge to play “big boy, physical football,” Kansas State had 348 yards rushing in the first half, including 225 in the second quarter as the Wildcats led 31-21.Kansas State gashed the Utah defense on its way to five consecutive scoring drives — four TDs and a 22-yard field goal. Jackson gained 236 yards in the first half with TD runs of 66 and 80 yards. Antonio Martin Jr. and Johnson also rushed for scores.<h2>The takeaway</h2>Kansas State: Late in a disappointing season that began with Big 12 title hopes, the Wildcats put together an unforgettable display of power and speed on the ground but let Utah make all the big plays in the final three minutes.Utah: The Utes' defense was overwhelmed by the Wildcats’ physicality on the line of scrimmage, but they found a way to salvage an unfathomable win, largely thanks to Dampier.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State hosts Colorado next Saturday.

🏈 Utah scores late for wild win over Kansas State

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Rocco Becht threw for 241 yards and three touchdowns, with two scores and 73 yards going to Brett Eskildsen, and Iowa State defeated Kansas 38-14 on Saturday.

The Cyclones (7-4, 4-4 Big 12) earned their first win against the Jayhawks (5-6, 3-5) since 2021 and came away with their first home victory since Sept. 27 against Arizona.

Carsen Hansen rushed for 99 of his 120 yards in the first half, including a 4-yard score to put Iowa State ahead 14-0 early in the second quarter. Kyle Konrardy added the second-longest field goal of his career from 55-yards out to extend the lead 17-0 with 10:32 remaining before the break.

“(Hansen) has that physical ability to fall forward every time he runs the football," Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “He plays like that, and keeps that consistency all the time.”

The teams combined for four straight touchdown drives in the third quarter, with Iowa State leading 31-14 entering the fourth.

“Getting into a rhythm is beautiful,” Eskildsen said. “It’s huge momentum, you get the crowd into it and it’s just (big) having things like that.”

Aiden Flora capped the scoring with 1:07 left in the fourth with his first rushing touchdown of the season for the Cyclones.

“Execution today is the biggest word,” Becht said. “We had a confidence in one another knowing that everything was clicking and everyone was doing their jobs.”

Jalon Daniels was 13-of-23 passing for 154 yards and an interception for Kansas. Boden Groen had five catches for 76 yards, including a 21-yard touchdown from backup quarterback Cole Ballard.

“We've got to coach it better,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We've got to continue to find ways to execute.”

Becht looked much more confident in the first half against Kansas after completing his first 10 passes. He finished 18 of 23.

Kansas is in danger of missing out on bowl eligibility for the second straight season under Leipold.

Iowa State takes on Oklahoma State in Stillwater on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763840605884.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>AMES, Iowa (AP) — Rocco Becht threw for 241 yards and three touchdowns, with two scores and 73 yards going to Brett Eskildsen, and Iowa State defeated Kansas 38-14 on Saturday.The Cyclones (7-4, 4-4 Big 12) earned their first win against the Jayhawks (5-6, 3-5) since 2021 and came away with their first home victory since Sept. 27 against Arizona.Carsen Hansen rushed for 99 of his 120 yards in the first half, including a 4-yard score to put Iowa State ahead 14-0 early in the second quarter. Kyle Konrardy added the second-longest field goal of his career from 55-yards out to extend the lead 17-0 with 10:32 remaining before the break.“(Hansen) has that physical ability to fall forward every time he runs the football," Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “He plays like that, and keeps that consistency all the time.”The teams combined for four straight touchdown drives in the third quarter, with Iowa State leading 31-14 entering the fourth.“Getting into a rhythm is beautiful,” Eskildsen said. “It’s huge momentum, you get the crowd into it and it’s just (big) having things like that.”Aiden Flora capped the scoring with 1:07 left in the fourth with his first rushing touchdown of the season for the Cyclones.“Execution today is the biggest word,” Becht said. “We had a confidence in one another knowing that everything was clicking and everyone was doing their jobs.”Jalon Daniels was 13-of-23 passing for 154 yards and an interception for Kansas. Boden Groen had five catches for 76 yards, including a 21-yard touchdown from backup quarterback Cole Ballard.“We've got to coach it better,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We've got to continue to find ways to execute.”<h2>The takeaway</h2>Becht looked much more confident in the first half against Kansas after completing his first 10 passes. He finished 18 of 23.Kansas is in danger of missing out on bowl eligibility for the second straight season under Leipold.<h2>Up next</h2>Iowa State takes on Oklahoma State in Stillwater on Saturday.

🏈 Iowa State snaps 3-game skid with victory over Kansas 

TALLAHASSEE, Florida - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7e3d4435-7cae-4840-b504-71d21bf4605d?elinkdata=33594">Kirstin Hackney's</a> final race of the cross country season wasn't much different than her previous endeavors this fall for the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes.

Hackney earned All-America honors by placing 40th at the NAIA Women's National Championship on Friday morning at Apalachee Regional Park. She ran the 6,000-meter course in 22:00.5 becoming the third All-American in the history of the program and the first since 2009.

"She ran the way that she has been most of the season - with a lot of determination," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5c8c2620-8958-475a-aace-6def8407e18e?elinkdata=33594">Garrett Young</a> said. "I think today was more about her doing what she's done all season on the big stage, having that faith or that trust and that confidence. Moreso than it was about physical ability."

The Coyotes placed 15th in the 30-team field.

Hackney, who was third in the Kansas Conference Championship on Nov. 8 in Leavenworth, ran a strong race from start to finish, according to Young. The event featured 331 runners.

"She got out in like 35th, climbed up to 25th by 3,000 meters, had a streak where she fell back to 35th or so and then finished 40th," he said.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/be7fc4d3-8081-4286-aa8a-e707af517213?elinkdata=33594">Kierra Jensen</a> finished 52nd (22:17.9) for the Coyotes followed by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/566c3804-1b28-40d5-aa1f-4c1e28485ffe?elinkdata=33594">Micah Dickens</a> in 136th (23.13.5), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/31eeeba3-4096-4bc3-b2b7-f50fc3a12293?elinkdata=33594">Josie Koppes</a> 156th (23.25.0), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/92be1e03-8102-4dcb-8ad7-03e66680acfb?elinkdata=33594">Charlee Lind</a> 160th (23.25.9), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/feee9355-0eb9-4b69-9b65-763778bbf5ad?elinkdata=33594">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> 187th (23.46.5) and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7e677da6-2119-4f8f-ac55-3ae703b3540a?elinkdata=33594">Shelby Lingle</a> 188th (23.46.7).

"We wanted to come out and take a really big swing today," Young said. "I think we were as high as fifth place as a team at 1,000 meters so I really liked the effort. I really liked the execution we saw early in the race.

"We needed things to tilt a little bit differently in our way, but I don't think anyone walks away from 15th place feeling bad or holding their head down or anything."

TALLAHASSEE, Florida - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7e3d4435-7cae-4840-b504-71d21bf4605d?elinkdata=33594">Kirstin Hackney's</a> final race of the cross country season wasn't much different than her previous endeavors this fall for the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes.Hackney earned All-America honors by placing 40th at the NAIA Women's National Championship on Friday morning at Apalachee Regional Park. She ran the 6,000-meter course in 22:00.5 becoming the third All-American in the history of the program and the first since 2009."She ran the way that she has been most of the season - with a lot of determination," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5c8c2620-8958-475a-aace-6def8407e18e?elinkdata=33594">Garrett Young</a> said. "I think today was more about her doing what she's done all season on the big stage, having that faith or that trust and that confidence. Moreso than it was about physical ability."The Coyotes placed 15th in the 30-team field.Hackney, who was third in the Kansas Conference Championship on Nov. 8 in Leavenworth, ran a strong race from start to finish, according to Young. The event featured 331 runners."She got out in like 35th, climbed up to 25th by 3,000 meters, had a streak where she fell back to 35th or so and then finished 40th," he said.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/be7fc4d3-8081-4286-aa8a-e707af517213?elinkdata=33594">Kierra Jensen</a> finished 52nd (22:17.9) for the Coyotes followed by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/566c3804-1b28-40d5-aa1f-4c1e28485ffe?elinkdata=33594">Micah Dickens</a> in 136th (23.13.5), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/31eeeba3-4096-4bc3-b2b7-f50fc3a12293?elinkdata=33594">Josie Koppes</a> 156th (23.25.0), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/92be1e03-8102-4dcb-8ad7-03e66680acfb?elinkdata=33594">Charlee Lind</a> 160th (23.25.9), <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/feee9355-0eb9-4b69-9b65-763778bbf5ad?elinkdata=33594">Madisyn Ehrlich</a> 187th (23.46.5) and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7e677da6-2119-4f8f-ac55-3ae703b3540a?elinkdata=33594">Shelby Lingle</a> 188th (23.46.7)."We wanted to come out and take a really big swing today," Young said. "I think we were as high as fifth place as a team at 1,000 meters so I really liked the effort. I really liked the execution we saw early in the race."We needed things to tilt a little bit differently in our way, but I don't think anyone walks away from 15th place feeling bad or holding their head down or anything."

Hackney places 40th to earn NAIA All-America honors, lead Coyotes to 15th place finish at NAIA Nationals

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/damion-jackson/10918">Damion Jackson</a> ended a strong cross country season on a high note by finishing 57th in the NAIA Men's Championship on Friday.

Jackson, a junior, posted a time of 25:31.7 and was among a tightly bunched group at the finish line. A total of 323 runners completed the 8,000-meter race.

Jackson won the Kansas Conference Championship on Nov. 8 at Leavenworth.

"We needed him out a little bit harder today," coach <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/coaches/garrett-young/967">Garrett Young</a> said. "He moved up every single kilometer of the race and got past a lot of guys but definitely one that I would say we wish we had back."

KWU placed 27th in the 37-team field with 579 points. Indiana Wesleyan was the champion with 117 points. Jack Anderson of The Master's was the individual champion in 24:15.4.

<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ty-davidson/11316">Ty Davidson</a> finished 100th (25:58.4) for the Coyotes, <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/wyatt-johnson/10919">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 179th (26:30.4), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/evan-pearce/10923">Evan Pearce</a> 191st (26:33.9), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-ochana/11322">Ethan Ochana</a> 198th (26:38.6), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jake-cruz/10914">Jake Cruz</a> (26:41.2) and <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/austin-schaeffer/10925">Austin Schaeffer</a> 251st (27:15.0).

"Not really the day that we were hoping for," Young said. "Maybe some lack of execution on some things, just kind of misfiring in places. We needed to see things out early in the race that we didn't and it kind of come back and punished us on the back half."

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/damion-jackson/10918">Damion Jackson</a> ended a strong cross country season on a high note by finishing 57th in the NAIA Men's Championship on Friday.Jackson, a junior, posted a time of 25:31.7 and was among a tightly bunched group at the finish line. A total of 323 runners completed the 8,000-meter race.Jackson won the Kansas Conference Championship on Nov. 8 at Leavenworth."We needed him out a little bit harder today," coach <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/coaches/garrett-young/967">Garrett Young</a> said. "He moved up every single kilometer of the race and got past a lot of guys but definitely one that I would say we wish we had back."KWU placed 27th in the 37-team field with 579 points. Indiana Wesleyan was the champion with 117 points. Jack Anderson of The Master's was the individual champion in 24:15.4.<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ty-davidson/11316">Ty Davidson</a> finished 100th (25:58.4) for the Coyotes, <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/wyatt-johnson/10919">Wyatt Johnson</a> was 179th (26:30.4), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/evan-pearce/10923">Evan Pearce</a> 191st (26:33.9), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-ochana/11322">Ethan Ochana</a> 198th (26:38.6), <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jake-cruz/10914">Jake Cruz</a> (26:41.2) and <a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/austin-schaeffer/10925">Austin Schaeffer</a> 251st (27:15.0)."Not really the day that we were hoping for," Young said. "Maybe some lack of execution on some things, just kind of misfiring in places. We needed to see things out early in the race that we didn't and it kind of come back and punished us on the back half."Young said the future is bright though.

KWU Men's Cross Country finishes 27th at NAIA National Championships

By ANTHONY GORGES Salina Post Contributor

The top two seeds in 5A West faced off on Friday night in Great Bend to decide who would be playing for a State Championship next week. As everyone expected, this one came down to the wire. Central pulled the upset and won 30-28 over the previously unbeaten Great Bend Panthers.

Salina Central won the toss and deferred to the second half. Great Bend received the opening kickoff and brought its high-powered offense onto the field. Central was ready to play, forcing a quick three-and-out and starting their first offensive drive of the game at the Panther 44. Similar to last week’s game, the Mustangs rode senior running back Cooper Reves in this substate game. Reves scored the opening touchdown of the game on a four-yard rushing touchdown behind the left side of the offensive line. The extra point was no good, and quickly, the Mustangs led 6-0.

Great Bend quickly responded with their own rushing touchdown by running back Connor Holladay. Similar to Central, the extra point was not good, as the Mustangs blocked it. At the end of the first quarter, the game was tied at 6-6.

In the second quarter, the tricks came alive for the Mustangs. Junior quarterback Griffin Hall is also the punter for the team. He dropped back to punt deep in their own territory, but instead of punting on fourth down, he completed a pass to wide receiver Keaton Smith to keep the drive alive and move the chains. Central ended up scoring on the drive on a 16-yard rushing touchdown by Reves, his second of the evening and 29th total touchdown on the season. The Mustangs led 13-6 midway through the second quarter. Central’s defense continued to hold Great Bend’s high-powered offense in check, turning them over on downs. Before halftime, Central had a chance to double up by scoring before halftime and getting the ball out of halftime. They faced fourth down and five at their own 30-yard line. Backup quarterback and punter Eli Kreighbaum came into the game out of a timeout. Kreighbaum pretended to run to the right for a rugby-style punt. Instead of punting it, he threw the ball to wide receiver Bodie Rodriguez for a first down to again keep the drive alive. The Mustangs connected on a 32-yard field goal to end the half by kicker Elijah Duxler. Salina Central led 16-6 at the break.

In the second half, Reves picked up right where he left off. He continued to gain four, five, six, and eight yards on carries as he helped chew up the clock and drive the Mustangs down the field. On fourth and goal from the eight-yard line, it appeared Salina Central would try a 25-yard field goal. Instead, more trickery. This time, quarterback and holder Griffin Hall took the snap, tossed it to Abram Owings, who hit Bodie Rodriguez in the end zone for a huge special teams touchdown to extend the lead to 23-6 with under five minutes to go in the third quarter.

As any good football team does, the Panthers responded with a quick strike on a 56-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Daxton Minton to senior receiver Cooper Ohnmacht, their first of two long touchdowns on the night. Following the touchdown, Great Bend went for two and got it, now trailing 23-14. On the ensuing possession, Central went three and out, and the Panthers again scored quickly on a 23-yard touchdown run by Minton to cut the lead down to two points at 23-21 at the end of the third quarter.

In fourth-quarter action, things got wild. Both defenses stepped up in a big way. Great Bend forced two turnovers, both fumbles, one on Hall and the other by Reves. The Mustangs’ defense held firm and turned the Panthers over on downs both times. Then, Salina Central had a chance to put the game away, and they did. They methodically moved down the field and faced a fourth down and three from the Great Bend 23-yard line with 40 seconds to go in the game. Hall connected on a 23-yard touchdown pass to put the game out of reach for the Panthers. The PAT was good, and Salina Central led 30-21 with 33 seconds to go.

Great Bend scored just two plays later on another long connection between Minton and Ohnmacht. Twenty seconds remained, neither team had any timeouts, and it all came down to the onside kick. Salina Central’s Abram Owings recovered the onside kick, the Mustangs took a knee in victory formation, and stunned #1 and previously unbeaten Great Bend by a final score of 30-28.

With the win, the Salina Central Mustangs will play for a State Championship next Friday in Emporia at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University. Salina Central will play Basehor-Linwood, who beat St. James Academy 28-20 on Friday night. It is the Mustangs’ first state appearance since 2005, when they won the State Title.

For Great Bend, the loss ends their season at 11-1, one of the best seasons in program history. Great Bend senior tight end and five-star recruit Ian Premer will now head to Notre Dame to play college football next season.

You can watch this game for free any time on-demand in the window below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763826074148.jpeg" alt="Salina Central huddles up around the coaching staff after beating Great Bend. Photo by Kaiden Comeau" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central huddles up around the coaching staff after beating Great Bend. Photo by Kaiden Comeau</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANTHONY GORGES Salina Post ContributorThe top two seeds in 5A West faced off on Friday night in Great Bend to decide who would be playing for a State Championship next week. As everyone expected, this one came down to the wire. Central pulled the upset and won 30-28 over the previously unbeaten Great Bend Panthers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Central won the toss and deferred to the second half. Great Bend received the opening kickoff and brought its high-powered offense onto the field. Central was ready to play, forcing a quick three-and-out and starting their first offensive drive of the game at the Panther 44. Similar to last week’s game, the Mustangs rode senior running back Cooper Reves in this substate game. Reves scored the opening touchdown of the game on a four-yard rushing touchdown behind the left side of the offensive line. The extra point was no good, and quickly, the Mustangs led 6-0.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763826157173.jpeg" alt="Griffin Hall scampers through the line for a first down. Photo by Kaiden Comeau." />
 <figcaption>Griffin Hall scampers through the line for a first down. Photo by Kaiden Comeau.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend quickly responded with their own rushing touchdown by running back Connor Holladay. Similar to Central, the extra point was not good, as the Mustangs blocked it. At the end of the first quarter, the game was tied at 6-6.In the second quarter, the tricks came alive for the Mustangs. Junior quarterback Griffin Hall is also the punter for the team. He dropped back to punt deep in their own territory, but instead of punting on fourth down, he completed a pass to wide receiver Keaton Smith to keep the drive alive and move the chains. Central ended up scoring on the drive on a 16-yard rushing touchdown by Reves, his second of the evening and 29th total touchdown on the season. The Mustangs led 13-6 midway through the second quarter. Central’s defense continued to hold Great Bend’s high-powered offense in check, turning them over on downs. Before halftime, Central had a chance to double up by scoring before halftime and getting the ball out of halftime. They faced fourth down and five at their own 30-yard line. Backup quarterback and punter Eli Kreighbaum came into the game out of a timeout. Kreighbaum pretended to run to the right for a rugby-style punt. Instead of punting it, he threw the ball to wide receiver Bodie Rodriguez for a first down to again keep the drive alive. The Mustangs connected on a 32-yard field goal to end the half by kicker Elijah Duxler. Salina Central led 16-6 at the break.In the second half, Reves picked up right where he left off. He continued to gain four, five, six, and eight yards on carries as he helped chew up the clock and drive the Mustangs down the field. On fourth and goal from the eight-yard line, it appeared Salina Central would try a 25-yard field goal. Instead, more trickery. This time, quarterback and holder Griffin Hall took the snap, tossed it to Abram Owings, who hit Bodie Rodriguez in the end zone for a huge special teams touchdown to extend the lead to 23-6 with under five minutes to go in the third quarter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763826237758.jpeg" alt="The Mustang defense brings down a Great Bend runner for a stop. Photo by Kaiden Comeau." />
 <figcaption>The Mustang defense brings down a Great Bend runner for a stop. Photo by Kaiden Comeau.</figcaption>
 </figure>As any good football team does, the Panthers responded with a quick strike on a 56-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Daxton Minton to senior receiver Cooper Ohnmacht, their first of two long touchdowns on the night. Following the touchdown, Great Bend went for two and got it, now trailing 23-14. On the ensuing possession, Central went three and out, and the Panthers again scored quickly on a 23-yard touchdown run by Minton to cut the lead down to two points at 23-21 at the end of the third quarter.In fourth-quarter action, things got wild. Both defenses stepped up in a big way. Great Bend forced two turnovers, both fumbles, one on Hall and the other by Reves. The Mustangs’ defense held firm and turned the Panthers over on downs both times. Then, Salina Central had a chance to put the game away, and they did. They methodically moved down the field and faced a fourth down and three from the Great Bend 23-yard line with 40 seconds to go in the game. Hall connected on a 23-yard touchdown pass to put the game out of reach for the Panthers. The PAT was good, and Salina Central led 30-21 with 33 seconds to go.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763826280489.jpeg" alt="Central celebrates a huge stop late in the game that helped them to the win. Photo by Kaiden Comeau." />
 <figcaption>Central celebrates a huge stop late in the game that helped them to the win. Photo by Kaiden Comeau.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend scored just two plays later on another long connection between Minton and Ohnmacht. Twenty seconds remained, neither team had any timeouts, and it all came down to the onside kick. Salina Central’s Abram Owings recovered the onside kick, the Mustangs took a knee in victory formation, and stunned #1 and previously unbeaten Great Bend by a final score of 30-28.With the win, the Salina Central Mustangs will play for a State Championship next Friday in Emporia at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University. Salina Central will play Basehor-Linwood, who beat St. James Academy 28-20 on Friday night. It is the Mustangs’ first state appearance since 2005, when they won the State Title.For Great Bend, the loss ends their season at 11-1, one of the best seasons in program history. Great Bend senior tight end and five-star recruit Ian Premer will now head to Notre Dame to play college football next season.You can watch this game for free any time on-demand in the window below.<figure>
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🏈 Central upsets Great Bend to return to 5A state title match for first time since 2005

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

For the first time all season, the Southeast of Saline football team found itself in a real battle on Friday night.

In a game that required everyone to step up and perform on the biggest stage, the Trojans prevailed, eliminating Hoisington 22-12 to punch their ticket back to the 2A state championship game.

“We knew Hoisington had a good football team and we knew we were going to have to work the whole night,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Our kids did a good job of making plays when we needed to especially defensively to slow down their run game. They did an outstanding job playing good team defense.”

Hoisington was a worthy opponent, and they proved it on the opening drive, punching in a four-yard touchdown run by Mason Martin to take a 6-0 lead.

The Cardinal defense stood tall on Southeast’s first drive of the night, but a muffed punt found its way back to the Trojans, and Grady Gebhardt made Hoisington pay, running in his lone touchdown of the day from 17 yards out.

Hoisington threatened to reclaim the lead late in the first, but with their backs to the wall as they so often do, the Trojan defense stood its ground, forcing a turnover on downs inside the five.

Critics of Southeast have asked when the Trojans would begin to really miss star QB/DB Gannon Jacobson, who has been out since the Hillsboro game with a Lisfranc injury.

Tiernan Ptacek the quarterback responded to the noise by throwing an absolute dot down the sideline, which Malachi Hopkins swiftly caught and took 56 yards to the house to extend the Trojan lead.

Hoisington answered back with what appeared to be the final score of the first half, but on the ensuing kickoff Kanyon Douglas turned a potential disaster into a masterpiece, recovering the ball at the two, and taking it the distance for an electric 98-yard touchdown return.

That return put the Trojans ahead 22-12 at halftime, a score that would remain unchanged until the final whistle.

“Our kids did a really good job of playing team defense and getting a lot of people to the ball; that’s something we did a better job of in the second half,” Gebhardt said. “Their kids run hard, and sometimes you need more than one guy to bring them down.”

In the second half, Southeast again turned the Cardinals over on downs inside the 10, and in the closing minute Tiernan Ptacek the DB got up for the game-sealing interception to officially punch a Trojan ticket to the state title match.

“Tiernan is outstanding,” he said. “We knew he was going to be good but he hadn’t had to go out and do some of these things because we had Gannon but for him to go out and play at this level, he’s been outstanding and it’s been great for our football program.”

For Hoisington, another incredible season comes to a close at the hands of Southeast, this time with a final record of 10-1.

For Southeast, it’ll be a rematch of last year’s state title match against Nemaha Central, who defeated Osage City 22-19 tonight to advance back to the final.

“It’s a great situation for us to get to play in the state championship game again,” Gebhardt said. “That was one of our goals at the beginning of the season and we really do try to stick to that 1-0 mantra, that’s what we’ll focus on again next week against a really good Nemaha Central team.”

You can watch our full broadcast of this game any time on-demand in the window below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostFor the first time all season, the Southeast of Saline football team found itself in a real battle on Friday night.The Trojans stuck to Plan A.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>In a game that required everyone to step up and perform on the biggest stage, the Trojans prevailed, eliminating Hoisington 22-12 to punch their ticket back to the 2A state championship game.“We knew Hoisington had a good football team and we knew we were going to have to work the whole night,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Our kids did a good job of making plays when we needed to especially defensively to slow down their run game. They did an outstanding job playing good team defense.”Hoisington was a worthy opponent, and they proved it on the opening drive, punching in a four-yard touchdown run by Mason Martin to take a 6-0 lead.The Cardinal defense stood tall on Southeast’s first drive of the night, but a muffed punt found its way back to the Trojans, and Grady Gebhardt made Hoisington pay, running in his lone touchdown of the day from 17 yards out.8-6 Trojans, game on.Hoisington threatened to reclaim the lead late in the first, but with their backs to the wall as they so often do, the Trojan defense stood its ground, forcing a turnover on downs inside the five.Critics of Southeast have asked when the Trojans would begin to really miss star QB/DB Gannon Jacobson, who has been out since the Hillsboro game with a Lisfranc injury.The answer – not tonight.Tiernan Ptacek the quarterback responded to the noise by throwing an absolute dot down the sideline, which Malachi Hopkins swiftly caught and took 56 yards to the house to extend the Trojan lead.Hoisington answered back with what appeared to be the final score of the first half, but on the ensuing kickoff Kanyon Douglas turned a potential disaster into a masterpiece, recovering the ball at the two, and taking it the distance for an electric 98-yard touchdown return.That return put the Trojans ahead 22-12 at halftime, a score that would remain unchanged until the final whistle.“Our kids did a really good job of playing team defense and getting a lot of people to the ball; that’s something we did a better job of in the second half,” Gebhardt said. “Their kids run hard, and sometimes you need more than one guy to bring them down.”In the second half, Southeast again turned the Cardinals over on downs inside the 10, and in the closing minute Tiernan Ptacek the DB got up for the game-sealing interception to officially punch a Trojan ticket to the state title match.“Tiernan is outstanding,” he said. “We knew he was going to be good but he hadn’t had to go out and do some of these things because we had Gannon but for him to go out and play at this level, he’s been outstanding and it’s been great for our football program.”For Hoisington, another incredible season comes to a close at the hands of Southeast, this time with a final record of 10-1.For Southeast, it’ll be a rematch of last year’s state title match against Nemaha Central, who defeated Osage City 22-19 tonight to advance back to the final.“It’s a great situation for us to get to play in the state championship game again,” Gebhardt said. “That was one of our goals at the beginning of the season and we really do try to stick to that 1-0 mantra, that’s what we’ll focus on again next week against a really good Nemaha Central team.”You can watch our full broadcast of this game any time on-demand in the window 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/TNESM5qh0cw"></iframe>
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🏈 Trojans pitch second-half shutout of Hoisington to return to 2A state title match

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —Pryce Sandfort scored 21 points and Reink Mast added 20 for Nebraska in an 86-85 victory over Kansas State on Friday night, winning the Hall of Fame Classic for the first time in program history.

Nebraska (6-0) went on a 15-0 run in the first half to lead 19-7. Kansas State (5-1) clawed its way back to close the gap to 45-35 at halftime.

The Wildcats took the lead with 7:51 to go in the second half, and Nebraska responded every time Kansas State tried to push in front.

With 2:28 to go Sandfort sank a 3-pointer to put the Cornhuskers up 81-80. PJ Haggerty hit a jumper and a free throw for the Wildcats, but Sam Hoiberg and Mast scored layups to put Nebraska up two. Haggerty's layup tied it at 85-all with 27 seconds left.

Sandfort missed a 3-pointer, Hoiberg corralled the rebound and was fouled in the process, sending him to the line in the final second. He made the first of two foul shots for the win.

Haggerty led the Wildcats with 27 points. Abdi Bashir Jr. added 26 and Nate Johnson had 12.

Nebraska now has the nation’s longest win streak with 10 straight victories dating back to Mar. 31, 2025, with an 86-78 win over Arizona State in the College Basketball Crown tournament, which the Huskers won. This was the 224th meeting between the two programs, with the first game occurring on Feb. 19, 1905, a 50-14 victory for Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763799769198.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —Pryce Sandfort scored 21 points and Reink Mast added 20 for Nebraska in an 86-85 victory over Kansas State on Friday night, winning the Hall of Fame Classic for the first time in program history.Nebraska (6-0) went on a 15-0 run in the first half to lead 19-7. Kansas State (5-1) clawed its way back to close the gap to 45-35 at halftime.The Wildcats took the lead with 7:51 to go in the second half, and Nebraska responded every time Kansas State tried to push in front.With 2:28 to go Sandfort sank a 3-pointer to put the Cornhuskers up 81-80. PJ Haggerty hit a jumper and a free throw for the Wildcats, but Sam Hoiberg and Mast scored layups to put Nebraska up two. Haggerty's layup tied it at 85-all with 27 seconds left.Sandfort missed a 3-pointer, Hoiberg corralled the rebound and was fouled in the process, sending him to the line in the final second. He made the first of two foul shots for the win.Haggerty led the Wildcats with 27 points. Abdi Bashir Jr. added 26 and Nate Johnson had 12.Hoiberg scored 12 for the Cornhuskers.Nebraska now has the nation’s longest win streak with 10 straight victories dating back to Mar. 31, 2025, with an 86-78 win over Arizona State in the College Basketball Crown tournament, which the Huskers won. This was the 224th meeting between the two programs, with the first game occurring on Feb. 19, 1905, a 50-14 victory for Nebraska.

🏀 Sandfort scores 21 for Nebraska in Hall of Fame Classic win over K-State

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763782254634.png" alt="Salina Central defeats Great Bend to advance to the 5A state title game" />
 <figcaption>Salina Central defeats Great Bend to advance to the 5A state title game</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763782280739.png" alt="Southeast of Saline shuts out Hoisington in the second half to return to the 2A state title game" />
 <figcaption>Southeast of Saline shuts out Hoisington in the second half to return to the 2A state title game</figcaption>
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🏈 Area High School State Semifinal Scoreboard

After rolling through the first three rounds of the playoffs, the Southeast of Saline football team finds itself on the doorstep of a state title berth for the fourth time in six years, with a familiar foe looking to play the bouncer.

For the fourth time in as many seasons, Southeast of Saline and Hoisington will meet deep in the playoffs, in a matchup that’s developed into a fun playoff rivalry over the years.

The last team to beat the Hoisington Cardinals (10-0) was Southeast of Saline in the 2024 playoffs on the way to their second state title in school history.

The last team to beat Southeast of Saline (11-0) was Hoisington in the 2023 playoffs, on their way to their second-ever state final appearance.

A win today would give the Trojans an opportunity to cement themselves as a modern high school football dynasty, but would deny the Cardinals an opportunity to chase what could be the first championship in the history of their program.

Neither side has experienced much resistance this season, with Hoisington winning their games by an average of 42 points and Southeast winning by an average of 47 points.

That domination extended to the playoffs as the Cardinals defeated Halstead, Hillsboro, and Garden Plain by a combined 119 points, and the Trojans eliminated Southwestern Heights, Russell, and Phillipsburg by a combined 148.

The closest win for Southeast of Saline was a 32-point win over Russell; for Hoisington, it was a 16-point win over Hesston.

All of that is to say this: for the first time this season, Southeast of Saline and Hoisington will face a real challenge in the form of the other, and it should make for absolute cinema in Gypsum.

“When you talk about 2A football in the state of Kansas, Hoisington is always mentioned and has been for decades,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They have a strong football tradition and great support from their fans. Their coaching staff does an outstanding job and their kids believe in what they’re doing.”

Like SES, Hoisington has dominated opponents on the ground this season, imposing their will up front on both sides of the ball and prohibiting their opponents from finding much in the way of consistent offense.

The battle in the trenches alone should be the perfect marriage of a classical ballet and a 12-car pile-up, where every inch could make the difference in what should be a tight game.

“Offensively, they want to be physical and establish the run,” Gebhardt said. “They have athletes all over the field and they can throw the ball a lot more than they have in the past. You can do everything you need to do and they’re still going to gain yards in a game like this. You just have to accept that.

Kickoff for this game is set for 7:00 on the campus of Southeast of Saline, the winner will advance to the state championship game to meet either Nemaha Central or Osage City.

As always you can listen to this game on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) or stream it for free with live video and audio commentary on Salina Post in the window below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostAfter rolling through the first three rounds of the playoffs, the Southeast of Saline football team finds itself on the doorstep of a state title berth for the fourth time in six years, with a familiar foe looking to play the bouncer.For the fourth time in as many seasons, Southeast of Saline and Hoisington will meet deep in the playoffs, in a matchup that’s developed into a fun playoff rivalry over the years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>The last team to beat the Hoisington Cardinals (10-0) was Southeast of Saline in the 2024 playoffs on the way to their second state title in school history.The last team to beat Southeast of Saline (11-0) was Hoisington in the 2023 playoffs, on their way to their second-ever state final appearance.A win today would give the Trojans an opportunity to cement themselves as a modern high school football dynasty, but would deny the Cardinals an opportunity to chase what could be the first championship in the history of their program.Either way, someone has to lose.Neither side has experienced much resistance this season, with Hoisington winning their games by an average of 42 points and Southeast winning by an average of 47 points.That domination extended to the playoffs as the Cardinals defeated Halstead, Hillsboro, and Garden Plain by a combined 119 points, and the Trojans eliminated Southwestern Heights, Russell, and Phillipsburg by a combined 148.The closest win for Southeast of Saline was a 32-point win over Russell; for Hoisington, it was a 16-point win over Hesston.All of that is to say this: for the first time this season, Southeast of Saline and Hoisington will face a real challenge in the form of the other, and it should make for absolute cinema in Gypsum.“When you talk about 2A football in the state of Kansas, Hoisington is always mentioned and has been for decades,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They have a strong football tradition and great support from their fans. Their coaching staff does an outstanding job and their kids believe in what they’re doing.”Like SES, Hoisington has dominated opponents on the ground this season, imposing their will up front on both sides of the ball and prohibiting their opponents from finding much in the way of consistent offense.The battle in the trenches alone should be the perfect marriage of a classical ballet and a 12-car pile-up, where every inch could make the difference in what should be a tight game.“Offensively, they want to be physical and establish the run,” Gebhardt said. “They have athletes all over the field and they can throw the ball a lot more than they have in the past. You can do everything you need to do and they’re still going to gain yards in a game like this. You just have to accept that.Kickoff for this game is set for 7:00 on the campus of Southeast of Saline, the winner will advance to the state championship game to meet either Nemaha Central or Osage City.As always you can listen to this game on KINA (910 AM/107.5 FM) or stream it for free with live video and audio commentary on Salina Post in the window below.<figure>
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🏈 SES and Hoisington square off in state semis in fourth-straight playoff meeting

There’s a lot on the line in any semifinal game, but on Friday night, both Salina Central and Great Bend will each have an opportunity to return to the state title match for the first time in over 20 years.

For Central, a program with six state titles and nine finals appearances, this is an opportunity to take the next step on a long path to restoring the program to its former glory.

For Great Bend, it’s a chance to reach new heights for a team that has never won a state title on the gridiron.

In either case, Friday’s game is shaping up to be one of the best in the state in front of what should be a ruckus home crowd for Great Bend.

The Panthers enter this contest ranked as the #1 team in Class 5A, undefeated at 11-0, and boasting arguably the best athlete on either side in Ian Premer, who has committed to play tight end for Notre Dame after graduation.

Great Bend has destroyed each of its opponents in short order, playing in their first one-score game of the campaign last week in a 29-22 quarterfinal victory over Hays.

On the visiting sideline, the Mustangs have enjoyed a revival this season after a disappointing 4-5 finish to 2024, and come into this game 10-1 with a lone loss to Andover on their resume.

Central has beaten Topeka West, Goddard, and Salina South by a combined 101 points to reach its first semifinal since 2007.

Despite all the noise and jubilation surrounding a colossal win over Salina South last week, the focus in the Mustang locker room hasn’t wavered one bit ahead of a new biggest game of the season.

“Our guys have handled this really well mentally,” Central head coach Mark Sandbo said. “You would expect that out of a group with 18 seniors. There’s an emotional high when you beat your rival in a game like that in front of a crowd like that but come Monday there was a regrouping and our eyes were on a different opponent. That takes maturity and leadership and we understand what’s in front of us.”

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThere’s a lot on the line in any semifinal game, but on Friday night, both Salina Central and Great Bend will each have an opportunity to return to the state title match for the first time in over 20 years.For Central, a program with six state titles and nine finals appearances, this is an opportunity to take the next step on a long path to restoring the program to its former glory.For Great Bend, it’s a chance to reach new heights for a team that has never won a state title on the gridiron.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>In either case, Friday’s game is shaping up to be one of the best in the state in front of what should be a ruckus home crowd for Great Bend.The Panthers enter this contest ranked as the #1 team in Class 5A, undefeated at 11-0, and boasting arguably the best athlete on either side in Ian Premer, who has committed to play tight end for Notre Dame after graduation.Great Bend has destroyed each of its opponents in short order, playing in their first one-score game of the campaign last week in a 29-22 quarterfinal victory over Hays.On the visiting sideline, the Mustangs have enjoyed a revival this season after a disappointing 4-5 finish to 2024, and come into this game 10-1 with a lone loss to Andover on their resume.Central has beaten Topeka West, Goddard, and Salina South by a combined 101 points to reach its first semifinal since 2007.Despite all the noise and jubilation surrounding a colossal win over Salina South last week, the focus in the Mustang locker room hasn’t wavered one bit ahead of a new biggest game of the season.“Our guys have handled this really well mentally,” Central head coach Mark Sandbo said. “You would expect that out of a group with 18 seniors. There’s an emotional high when you beat your rival in a game like that in front of a crowd like that but come Monday there was a regrouping and our eyes were on a different opponent. That takes maturity and leadership and we understand what’s in front of us.”For as good as Central has been on both sides of the ball, the Mustangs will have their hands full with a Great Bend team that ended their most recent playoff run, and that looks as good on film as they do on paper.“Great Bend has some electric players,” Sandbo said. “The Premer kid is huge and on film he doesn’t look like he’s moving but 6-6 looks different on tape, you can say the same of the Ohnmacht kid, the Kern kids, Minton at quarterback, they have pieces that make them really special and for us to get a win in a hostile environment like that we’ll have to take care of the football, capitalize on our opportunities and play really sound physical football.”While Premer gets a lot of attention, senior quarterback Daxton Minton has run the show for Great Bend, completing 67% of his passes for 1,660 yards, 26 touchdowns and just three picks.Premer and Ohnmact have been real problems in space, combining to catch 84 passes, tally 1,908 scrimmage yards, and score 35 touchdowns on the year.Defensively, Kale and Trenton Karn have been stoppers in every sense of the word, combining for 230 tackles on the year, and shifting their attention this week to finding an answer for Cooper Reves, who scored five touchdowns in the win over South last week.Reves has put up video game numbers this season, rushing for over 2,400 yards and 26 touchdowns.Junior quarterback Griffin Hall has complemented Reves nicely, adding 114 more carries, 826 rushing yards, and 8 rushing touchdowns to a revived aerial assault.All of these pieces will need to be in full effect on Friday if Salina Central is to eliminate a team many see as favorites in this game, and advance to state for the first time since 2005.“We have to limit the explosive plays from guys like Premer and Ohnmacht, and we have to capitalize on our opportunities,” Sandbo said. “They really bow up inside the red zone and when we get into those opportunities, we have to score. We also need to find a way to force a few turnovers and continue to take care of the football.”Tonight’s game will be streamed with live video and audio commentary on Salina Post 100% free courtesy of the Bennington State Bank. You can tune in for this broadcast in the window below.<figure>
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