🎧 Supreme Court hears case on gender-affirming care for minors

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, I don’t have any injuries necessarily for you. I meet with the doctors here later, but I think we came out fairly healthy of this game, so I don’t think there’s going to be a whole lot to talk about, even so. With that, I’m going to leave it up to you guys (the media). Go ahead and fire away.”

Q: You said after the game that the Raiders were bringing an extra guy to stop the run. What was your overall evaluation of your run game against the Raiders?

REID:&nbsp;“We can do better in that area (the run game) and so I have to make sure that I give the guys the right things to run against that defense. Then, the guys have to do their job on top of that. It’s kind of a package deal there but I didn’t feel like I was necessarily putting them in the best position against that.”

Q: What part of the Hallmark movie experience are you going to remember most?

REID:&nbsp;“(Laughs) I didn’t have a real big part in it, thank goodness, or the movie probably wouldn’t have been as good as it was so that’s a good thing, but I enjoyed the people with Hallmark. They sure do a nice job with things and it’s a local group here, so they’re Kansas City grown, and I appreciate their support. I think we have a unique relationship between the two organizations, which is something. I mean, Hallmark is one of those (businesses) we all grew up with. If you needed a Christmas card, you knew where to go. You go to Hallmark, and you knew you were in good hands there. Anyways – it was fun. It was fun for what I did there. They (Hallmark) made it painless.”

Q: What will D.J. Humphries’ practice week look like this week?

REID:&nbsp;“We’ll work him (D.J. Humphries) in and see what he can – see how he feels. You know, that’s the main thing. He hasn’t played in a while, so I just want to make sure he’s in good position. He did a nice job last week working in there and we’ll do a little bit more with him this week.”

Q: What’s gone wrong at left tackle this season?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, we’ve got young guys working in there and so the growth – they’re going against good players and the good ones have gotten probably the better of us. It’s things that these guys will learn from, and they can bank for the future and get themselves better and I think that will help us down the road. So, that’s what I would tell you.”

Q:&nbsp;How did you feel like Joshua Williams did defensively after coming in for Nazeeh Johnson?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, I’m glad we have both of them (Nazeeh Johnson and Joshua Williams). I think both of them can still work in there and do some things. We haven’t given up on Nazeeh (Johnson) or anything of that sort. I mean, he’s coming off a pretty major knee surgery and so we’ve kind of kept an eye on him with that. I think as we go forward we can use both of them, I’m sure.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you think it’s a possibility for D.J. Humphries to start at left tackle this week?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, the last week was a short week, so we didn’t have a whole lot of time to – you know, for the fast part of the game practices. This week he’ll (D.J. Humphries) have a – I’ll have a better idea as we go, and he’ll have a better idea (of) how he feels. Then, we just go from there. We’ll just see how it all works out.”

Q:&nbsp;Have you determined who will start at left tackle this week?

REID:&nbsp;“No, I – listen, I don’t think that’s probably fair to D.J. (Humphries) right now just (with) him coming off this offseason. I think we just play it by year, Sam (McDowell), as we go. If he feels okay, then we give him an opportunity. If it’s not where it needs to be then you don’t. We’ll see how it goes.”

Q:&nbsp;If D.J. Humphries isn’t ready, would you roll with Joe Thuney at left tackle?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, that’s another one of the options that we’ve got. We finished the game that way. I’d rather have Joe (Thuney) playing in at guard because he’s very good there, but (Mike) Caliendo isn’t bad either, so that’s a good problem to have. We’ve got some flexibility there as needed.”

Q:&nbsp;Could the game against the Raiders be a turning point for Xavier Worthy?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, Matt (Derrick). I mean, he’s (Xavier Worthy) getting better. I think that’s what we all can see. It’s not a secret, he’s putting that out there for everybody to see. I would – my main concern is that he just keeps doing that. That’s what you want to do – keep working to better yourself and let’s just see where it all ends up at the end. He’s doing a nice job, he’s got the trust of the quarterback (Patrick Mahomes), he’s got the trust of the coaches, he’s playing fast, looks like he’s got his legs back from training camp and the early part of (the) season so all of that’s positive stuff. You have to keep putting the product out there.”

Q: After watching film and looking at Wanya Morris, are his struggles mental or physical? Which one is easier to fix?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, sometimes things snowball on you, Todd (Leabo). I mean, it’s a little bit of everything (that’ll) get you. He (Wanya Morris) started off pretty good and then it kind of went from there (and) that happens with young guys. Nobody wants that to happen that way but sometimes it happens and then you kind of get frozen in your own feet there and don’t know what to do exactly. It’s a great learning experience for him, I would expect him to do that – whatever direction this thing goes, I would expect him to do that. He’s a good kid and he works hard. I’d tell you the same thing with Kingsley (Suamataia). Both of them are – have got some valuable experience this year and we’ll continue to hope that they would learn from all of that.”

Q: Was Travis Kelce’s lateral in the game an indication that he’s earned the right to do that?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Travis Kelce) been doing it for a few years. We do it in practice every day – you guys see that, so you know this isn’t just something that we throw out there on game day. It’s something we do and so everything is ok with that just as long as you complete them.”

Q: On Jaden Hicks’ increased playing time.

HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, I don’t have any injuries necessarily for you. I meet with the doctors here later, but I think we came out fairly healthy of this game, so I don’t think there’s going to be a whole lot to talk about, even so. With that, I’m going to leave it up to you guys (the media). Go ahead and fire away.”Q: You said after the game that the Raiders were bringing an extra guy to stop the run. What was your overall evaluation of your run game against the Raiders?REID:&nbsp;“We can do better in that area (the run game) and so I have to make sure that I give the guys the right things to run against that defense. Then, the guys have to do their job on top of that. It’s kind of a package deal there but I didn’t feel like I was necessarily putting them in the best position against that.”Q: What part of the Hallmark movie experience are you going to remember most?REID:&nbsp;“(Laughs) I didn’t have a real big part in it, thank goodness, or the movie probably wouldn’t have been as good as it was so that’s a good thing, but I enjoyed the people with Hallmark. They sure do a nice job with things and it’s a local group here, so they’re Kansas City grown, and I appreciate their support. I think we have a unique relationship between the two organizations, which is something. I mean, Hallmark is one of those (businesses) we all grew up with. If you needed a Christmas card, you knew where to go. You go to Hallmark, and you knew you were in good hands there. Anyways – it was fun. It was fun for what I did there. They (Hallmark) made it painless.”Q: What will D.J. Humphries’ practice week look like this week?REID:&nbsp;“We’ll work him (D.J. Humphries) in and see what he can – see how he feels. You know, that’s the main thing. He hasn’t played in a while, so I just want to make sure he’s in good position. He did a nice job last week working in there and we’ll do a little bit more with him this week.”Q: What’s gone wrong at left tackle this season?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, we’ve got young guys working in there and so the growth – they’re going against good players and the good ones have gotten probably the better of us. It’s things that these guys will learn from, and they can bank for the future and get themselves better and I think that will help us down the road. So, that’s what I would tell you.”Q:&nbsp;How did you feel like Joshua Williams did defensively after coming in for Nazeeh Johnson?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, I’m glad we have both of them (Nazeeh Johnson and Joshua Williams). I think both of them can still work in there and do some things. We haven’t given up on Nazeeh (Johnson) or anything of that sort. I mean, he’s coming off a pretty major knee surgery and so we’ve kind of kept an eye on him with that. I think as we go forward we can use both of them, I’m sure.”Q:&nbsp;Do you think it’s a possibility for D.J. Humphries to start at left tackle this week?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, the last week was a short week, so we didn’t have a whole lot of time to – you know, for the fast part of the game practices. This week he’ll (D.J. Humphries) have a – I’ll have a better idea as we go, and he’ll have a better idea (of) how he feels. Then, we just go from there. We’ll just see how it all works out.”Q:&nbsp;Have you determined who will start at left tackle this week?REID:&nbsp;“No, I – listen, I don’t think that’s probably fair to D.J. (Humphries) right now just (with) him coming off this offseason. I think we just play it by year, Sam (McDowell), as we go. If he feels okay, then we give him an opportunity. If it’s not where it needs to be then you don’t. We’ll see how it goes.”Q:&nbsp;If D.J. Humphries isn’t ready, would you roll with Joe Thuney at left tackle?REID:&nbsp;“Well, that’s another one of the options that we’ve got. We finished the game that way. I’d rather have Joe (Thuney) playing in at guard because he’s very good there, but (Mike) Caliendo isn’t bad either, so that’s a good problem to have. We’ve got some flexibility there as needed.”Q:&nbsp;Could the game against the Raiders be a turning point for Xavier Worthy?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, Matt (Derrick). I mean, he’s (Xavier Worthy) getting better. I think that’s what we all can see. It’s not a secret, he’s putting that out there for everybody to see. I would – my main concern is that he just keeps doing that. That’s what you want to do – keep working to better yourself and let’s just see where it all ends up at the end. He’s doing a nice job, he’s got the trust of the quarterback (Patrick Mahomes), he’s got the trust of the coaches, he’s playing fast, looks like he’s got his legs back from training camp and the early part of (the) season so all of that’s positive stuff. You have to keep putting the product out there.”Q: After watching film and looking at Wanya Morris, are his struggles mental or physical? Which one is easier to fix?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, sometimes things snowball on you, Todd (Leabo). I mean, it’s a little bit of everything (that’ll) get you. He (Wanya Morris) started off pretty good and then it kind of went from there (and) that happens with young guys. Nobody wants that to happen that way but sometimes it happens and then you kind of get frozen in your own feet there and don’t know what to do exactly. It’s a great learning experience for him, I would expect him to do that – whatever direction this thing goes, I would expect him to do that. He’s a good kid and he works hard. I’d tell you the same thing with Kingsley (Suamataia). Both of them are – have got some valuable experience this year and we’ll continue to hope that they would learn from all of that.”Q: Was Travis Kelce’s lateral in the game an indication that he’s earned the right to do that?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Travis Kelce) been doing it for a few years. We do it in practice every day – you guys see that, so you know this isn’t just something that we throw out there on game day. It’s something we do and so everything is ok with that just as long as you complete them.”Q: On Jaden Hicks’ increased playing time.

Chiefs Quotes: 11-3-24

By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The holidays, while a time of celebration for many, can bring feelings of isolation and grief for others. For those who are alone or mourning the loss of a loved one, the season’s focus on togetherness and joy may deepen their sense of loneliness. 

Understanding the Challenges &nbsp;The holidays often serve as a reminder of those who are no longer with us. Traditions, once filled with warmth and laughter, may now feel hollow.

For others, being far from family or experiencing strained relationships can lead to loneliness. These feelings can be amplified by societal expectations to be cheerful, creating an emotional disconnect that is difficult to navigate.&nbsp;

Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in supporting those who might be struggling. Letting someone know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or distant during the holidays can help validate their experience.&nbsp; Small Acts of Kindness, Big Impacts&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kindness has the power to transform not only those who receive it but also those who give it. Here are meaningful ways to support friends, neighbors, or community members who might feel alone this holiday season:&nbsp;

A simple phone call, text, or handwritten note can make someone’s day. Let them know they are on your mind and that you care.&nbsp;

If possible, invite them to join your holiday celebrations. Even if they decline, the gesture itself can make a significant difference.&nbsp;

Create New Traditions Together&nbsp;

Offering to create new, low-pressure traditions can help fill the void left by absent loved ones or memories. For example, baking cookies, taking a walk to look at holiday lights, or watching a favorite movie together can offer comfort.&nbsp;

Grieving individuals often struggle with everyday tasks. Offering help with decorating, shopping, or cooking can ease their burden.&nbsp;

Sometimes, what people need most is someone to sit with them and listen. Let them share memories of their loved one or talk about their feelings without judgment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Encouraging Self-Compassion&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are someone experiencing loneliness or grief this season, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions and seek out activities that bring you peace, whether that’s journaling, spending time in nature, or connecting with supportive friends.&nbsp;

Remember, it’s okay to adjust or skip traditions that feel overwhelming this year. New memories and joys can coexist with the pain of loss, even if they take time to emerge.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The holidays are ultimately about love, compassion, and connection. By extending a hand to those who feel alone or grieving, we embody the true spirit of the season. This year, let’s pledge to make the season a little brighter for everyone, creating a ripple of kindness that extends far beyond the twinkling lights.

&nbsp;To learn more about resources made available by K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website here <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729864143137.jpeg" alt="Lisa Newman" />
 <figcaption>Lisa Newman</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The holidays, while a time of celebration for many, can bring feelings of isolation and grief for others. For those who are alone or mourning the loss of a loved one, the season’s focus on togetherness and joy may deepen their sense of loneliness. Understanding the Challenges &nbsp;The holidays often serve as a reminder of those who are no longer with us. Traditions, once filled with warmth and laughter, may now feel hollow. For others, being far from family or experiencing strained relationships can lead to loneliness. These feelings can be amplified by societal expectations to be cheerful, creating an emotional disconnect that is difficult to navigate.&nbsp;Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in supporting those who might be struggling. Letting someone know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or distant during the holidays can help validate their experience.&nbsp; Small Acts of Kindness, Big Impacts&nbsp;&nbsp; Kindness has the power to transform not only those who receive it but also those who give it. Here are meaningful ways to support friends, neighbors, or community members who might feel alone this holiday season:&nbsp;Reach Out&nbsp;A simple phone call, text, or handwritten note can make someone’s day. Let them know they are on your mind and that you care.&nbsp;Extend Invitations&nbsp;If possible, invite them to join your holiday celebrations. Even if they decline, the gesture itself can make a significant difference.&nbsp;Create New Traditions Together&nbsp;Offering to create new, low-pressure traditions can help fill the void left by absent loved ones or memories. For example, baking cookies, taking a walk to look at holiday lights, or watching a favorite movie together can offer comfort.&nbsp;Provide Practical Help&nbsp;Grieving individuals often struggle with everyday tasks. Offering help with decorating, shopping, or cooking can ease their burden.&nbsp;Be a Listening Ear&nbsp;Sometimes, what people need most is someone to sit with them and listen. Let them share memories of their loved one or talk about their feelings without judgment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Encouraging Self-Compassion&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are someone experiencing loneliness or grief this season, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions and seek out activities that bring you peace, whether that’s journaling, spending time in nature, or connecting with supportive friends.&nbsp;Remember, it’s okay to adjust or skip traditions that feel overwhelming this year. New memories and joys can coexist with the pain of loss, even if they take time to emerge.&nbsp;&nbsp;A Holiday of Hope&nbsp;&nbsp;The holidays are ultimately about love, compassion, and connection. By extending a hand to those who feel alone or grieving, we embody the true spirit of the season. This year, let’s pledge to make the season a little brighter for everyone, creating a ripple of kindness that extends far beyond the twinkling lights.&nbsp;To learn more about resources made available by K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website here <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu</a>

NEWMAN: Supporting the grieving and alone this holiday season, a season of compassion

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565281188574.png" alt="Salina Post Logo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Post Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTExciting news, Salina Post readers!We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.Thanks for reading and listening!-The Salina Post Newsroom

Salina Post news tip email address

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go, Leo Chenal’s out with personal issues – I mean, he missed today. He’ll be back in. Then, Cam Jones was sick and missed today. Spencer (Shrader) is the only one really to report. (He) strained his hamstring, (he) did it Monday when training and so he will be listed as out today. Other than that, we sure look forward to the challenge of playing the Raiders, (they’re a) good football team. (They’re) playing confident football on really both sides of the ball. Now, they’ve had a couple changes in there (and) we’ll have to adjust to that but again, our guys had a good week of practice, and we know when the Raiders and the Chiefs get together, it’s always one of those kinds of games. Anyways, with that, the time’s yours.”

Q: Will Leo Chenal be back Friday?

Q: What’s your expectation for Isiah Pacheco and Charles Omenihu returning for this game?

REID:&nbsp;“I mean, as long as they’re (Isiah Pacheco and Charles Omenihu) okay. We’ll check on it again today, I’ve been trying to take it day-by-day. If they’re good after today then we’ll play them, yep.”

Q: Does Raider Week have any particular importance to you just looking at NFL history?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, there have been a lot of great games. I know both teams kind of understand that there’s been a rivalry for a lot of years, a lot of great players (on) both sides, (on) both teams. That’s really where the – I’d tell you the history started, back in the AFL (American Football League) with it and both teams have good players, and so they battled each other – violently they battled each other (laughs). Again, great competition against each other.”

Q: Is there anything that you noticed from D.J. Humphries?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (D.J. Humphries) looked healthy moving around, (he) felt good. It’s just a matter of him getting back in the swing and then also compounding with just the offense and making sure that he has the terminology down and he’ll go from there.”

Q: What’s a reasonable timeframe for D.J. Humphries?

REID:&nbsp;“Eh. We’ll just play it by ear. I told him (D.J. Humphries) let’s just keep the communication open and we’ll figure it out. That’s kind of what we’ve done with the other guys that have come in and we’ll just keep open communication. He seems like a guy that’ll shoot you straight so that’s what I’d expect.”

Q:&nbsp;What do you guys like about Matthew Wright?

REID:&nbsp;“I think we all have trust in him (Matthew Wright) from having been around him, so we look forward to welcoming him into the mix. I know guys know him and have made him, I think, feel that way coming back here – (we have) full trust in him, yeah.”

Q:&nbsp;What sense do you get from your defense based on how the last few games have gone?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, there have been some real good things but there (are) some things we have to clean up. The guys are taking accountability for that – and coaches and that’s what’s it all about (and) you work through those things and make sure that you can get yourself where you want to be.”

Q:&nbsp;How are you guys handling Thanksgiving tomorrow and how much family time will you get yourself?

REID:&nbsp;“There are some unique weeks, but we’re making them consistent with what we do and working around it – make sure the guys get enough recovery time. They always have tomorrow off after the walk through and then before they get to the hotel, so they have time to visit with their families (and) do what they need to do there.”

Q:&nbsp;What do the Giving Machines mean to you and your wife?

REID:&nbsp;“I think it’s fantastic because it does good for people – all over the world. It’s an amazing thing to look at and watch and see how it’s grown throughout the country. Then, how it’s giving people a chance to have maybe an easier life that don’t have that.”

Q:&nbsp;How does the tight end position shake out for you and is Anthony Firkser a guy that you might need this week?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, that would – he (Anthony Firkser) would be one that we could use in there. Again, he’s another one that’s coming back to us, so we’re familiar with him and kind of what he can do. Obviously, (he’s) a brilliant guy and we’ve worked him in there, so he’s been getting some reps. Yes, he’s one that we could work with, yeah.”

Q:&nbsp;On two-minute drill situations.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, we hit it heavy at least once a week, so it’s important. I think most teams probably do something of that sort. I think it’s important – all the details (and) situational football I think is important and that’s one of the situations and we’ve been there a few times, and we needed it, yeah.”

Q:&nbsp;How beneficial is it to have a guy like Patrick Mahomes who seems to constantly be thinking about those things?

HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go, Leo Chenal’s out with personal issues – I mean, he missed today. He’ll be back in. Then, Cam Jones was sick and missed today. Spencer (Shrader) is the only one really to report. (He) strained his hamstring, (he) did it Monday when training and so he will be listed as out today. Other than that, we sure look forward to the challenge of playing the Raiders, (they’re a) good football team. (They’re) playing confident football on really both sides of the ball. Now, they’ve had a couple changes in there (and) we’ll have to adjust to that but again, our guys had a good week of practice, and we know when the Raiders and the Chiefs get together, it’s always one of those kinds of games. Anyways, with that, the time’s yours.”Q: Will Leo Chenal be back Friday?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah. Yeah.”Q: What’s your expectation for Isiah Pacheco and Charles Omenihu returning for this game?REID:&nbsp;“I mean, as long as they’re (Isiah Pacheco and Charles Omenihu) okay. We’ll check on it again today, I’ve been trying to take it day-by-day. If they’re good after today then we’ll play them, yep.”Q: Does Raider Week have any particular importance to you just looking at NFL history?REID:&nbsp;“Well, there have been a lot of great games. I know both teams kind of understand that there’s been a rivalry for a lot of years, a lot of great players (on) both sides, (on) both teams. That’s really where the – I’d tell you the history started, back in the AFL (American Football League) with it and both teams have good players, and so they battled each other – violently they battled each other (laughs). Again, great competition against each other.”Q: Is there anything that you noticed from D.J. Humphries?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (D.J. Humphries) looked healthy moving around, (he) felt good. It’s just a matter of him getting back in the swing and then also compounding with just the offense and making sure that he has the terminology down and he’ll go from there.”Q: What’s a reasonable timeframe for D.J. Humphries?REID:&nbsp;“Eh. We’ll just play it by ear. I told him (D.J. Humphries) let’s just keep the communication open and we’ll figure it out. That’s kind of what we’ve done with the other guys that have come in and we’ll just keep open communication. He seems like a guy that’ll shoot you straight so that’s what I’d expect.”Q:&nbsp;What do you guys like about Matthew Wright?REID:&nbsp;“I think we all have trust in him (Matthew Wright) from having been around him, so we look forward to welcoming him into the mix. I know guys know him and have made him, I think, feel that way coming back here – (we have) full trust in him, yeah.”Q:&nbsp;What sense do you get from your defense based on how the last few games have gone?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, there have been some real good things but there (are) some things we have to clean up. The guys are taking accountability for that – and coaches and that’s what’s it all about (and) you work through those things and make sure that you can get yourself where you want to be.”Q:&nbsp;How are you guys handling Thanksgiving tomorrow and how much family time will you get yourself?REID:&nbsp;“There are some unique weeks, but we’re making them consistent with what we do and working around it – make sure the guys get enough recovery time. They always have tomorrow off after the walk through and then before they get to the hotel, so they have time to visit with their families (and) do what they need to do there.”Q:&nbsp;What do the Giving Machines mean to you and your wife?REID:&nbsp;“I think it’s fantastic because it does good for people – all over the world. It’s an amazing thing to look at and watch and see how it’s grown throughout the country. Then, how it’s giving people a chance to have maybe an easier life that don’t have that.”Q:&nbsp;How does the tight end position shake out for you and is Anthony Firkser a guy that you might need this week?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, that would – he (Anthony Firkser) would be one that we could use in there. Again, he’s another one that’s coming back to us, so we’re familiar with him and kind of what he can do. Obviously, (he’s) a brilliant guy and we’ve worked him in there, so he’s been getting some reps. Yes, he’s one that we could work with, yeah.”Q:&nbsp;On two-minute drill situations.REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, we hit it heavy at least once a week, so it’s important. I think most teams probably do something of that sort. I think it’s important – all the details (and) situational football I think is important and that’s one of the situations and we’ve been there a few times, and we needed it, yeah.”Q:&nbsp;How beneficial is it to have a guy like Patrick Mahomes who seems to constantly be thinking about those things?

Chiefs Quotes: 11-27-24

By&nbsp;JEREMY BOHN K-State Salina &nbsp;

Imagine this: A student is immersed in cutting-edge technology, learning from industry experts who bring years of research and real-world experience into the classroom. They sit at a desk in a traditional setting, and they can see their fellow students sitting beside them, intently listening as an instructor writes on a board or discusses the lesson of the day.

What unfolds next is anything but ordinary.

At the end of class, the student slides off their virtual reality, or VR, headset, and opens their eyes not to a classroom, but to their living room, a work office or even a coffee shop.

This isn’t a vision for the future – it’s a reality today for many students at Kansas State University Salina.

Through the integration of virtual environments, K-State Salina is redefining the educational experience, connecting learners across the globe in real time.

“ Through these VR headsets, we have a virtual classroom that we can step into with a whiteboard that we can draw on," said Henry Kerschen, senior in computer systems technology, Olathe. “This campus has done a great job of preparing all of us to have that real, thoughtful development as we’ve worked," Kerschen continued. "What has been that for me is a fully comprehensive experience and it’s given me a good base foundation of information that I can really take with me anywhere.”

K-AIRES will be hub for cutting-edge education, Pure Imagination Studios

As Kansas State University’s College of Aviation and Technology, the Salina campus is setting the standard for technical education, especially in the aerospace and technology industries. Through its expertise in pioneering technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and cyber-physical systems, K-State Salina is shaping the future of education and advancing the mission of Kansas State University as the next-generation land-grant university.

“The instructors at K-State Salina have done a great job of introducing us to new technology,” Kerschen said. “As students, we have this unique opportunity to play with VR headsets and engage in that immersive experience, and we have a lot of tools that allow us to get hands-on with our own educational experiments.”

In August, K-State Salina broke ground on facilities for its new, one-of-a-kind partnership with Pure Imagination Studios, a global leader in immersive entertainment.

This collaboration led to the creation of the K-AIRES center, a $41 million, 47,500-square-foot facility that will be a hub for cutting-edge education and innovation. K-AIRES will house a production lab for Pure Imagination Studios, which has worked on high-profile projects for Netflix, DreamWorks, FOX, The LEGO Group, Marvel Entertainment and others.

“Our students will be working alongside Pure Imagination employees and creatives learning how the industry works,” said Michael Oetken, assistant professor in immersive systems design and director of K-AIRES. “They’ll get to work on projects with Pure Imagination Labs as well as engage in experiential learning with K-State Salina faculty. It’s an exciting new chapter in applied learning on our campus and a great way to gain an education.”

K-State is not waiting for construction to be complete. Students are already learning how to apply advanced technologies daily, from cyber-physical systems to how software and data components interact with the world.

Students are already learning how to autonomously navigate drones through programming, control systems, computer vision and image processing.

“At K-State Salina, we are changing the landscape of education,” said Balaji Balasubramaniam, assistant professor in computer systems technology and graduate program coordinator for the machine learning and autonomous systems certificate. “We are giving the students the experience of using these advanced technologies in the classroom. Students are provided opportunities to immerse themselves through work-study, hands-on projects in class and assisting in research.”

K-State Salina students learn real-world skills to build the future

K-State Salina is not only transforming higher education, but also preparing students for careers in industries that are rapidly evolving.

One area seeing massive technological growth is agriculture, where K-State Salina’s expertise in AI, VR and machine learning is making an impact.

Agriculture companies are embracing AI and digital technologies to enhance precision farming. From tractor mapping software to AI-driven agricultural spray aircraft, these innovations are making farming more efficient and cost-effective.

Austin Chart, a graduate student in integrated systems design and dynamics, Salina, is using K-State Salina’s advanced technologies to improve agricultural practices.

“Farming in general has been a lot more systematic, it’s become much more precision-based, and that level of precision is becoming more and more accurate by the day, especially with this type of technology,” Chart said. “Innovations like machine learning, autonomous systems and AI help producers save money because farmers, using the tools and machines at their disposal, understand their land best and know where to properly apply products.”

Students at K-State Salina have access to industry-standard tools like VR headsets, robots, three-dimensional modeling software and programming software like Unreal Engine — all of which allow them to experiment and build their own projects.

The combination of hands-on learning, industry partnerships and cutting-edge technology sets K-State Salina apart.

Chart credits the hands-on nature of K-State Salina’s courses and the faculty’s connections to industry in helping him prepare to affect the agriculture industry with new technologies.

“Getting your education at K-State Salina feels a little bit like you’re at Hogwarts," Chart said. "We’re not just reading a book — we’re learning the spells. Students are creating programs, creating games and doing these things hands-on and in real-time. I think it’s something that distinguishes K-State from a lot of others around country.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720637314.jpeg" alt="A K-State Salina student uses a virtual reality headset to participate in a virtual classroom." />
 <figcaption>A K-State Salina student uses a virtual reality headset to participate in a virtual classroom.</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;JEREMY BOHN K-State Salina &nbsp;Imagine this: A student is immersed in cutting-edge technology, learning from industry experts who bring years of research and real-world experience into the classroom. They sit at a desk in a traditional setting, and they can see their fellow students sitting beside them, intently listening as an instructor writes on a board or discusses the lesson of the day.What unfolds next is anything but ordinary.At the end of class, the student slides off their virtual reality, or VR, headset, and opens their eyes not to a classroom, but to their living room, a work office or even a coffee shop.This isn’t a vision for the future – it’s a reality today for many students at Kansas State University Salina.Through the integration of virtual environments, K-State Salina is redefining the educational experience, connecting learners across the globe in real time.“ Through these VR headsets, we have a virtual classroom that we can step into with a whiteboard that we can draw on," said Henry Kerschen, senior in computer systems technology, Olathe. “This campus has done a great job of preparing all of us to have that real, thoughtful development as we’ve worked," Kerschen continued. "What has been that for me is a fully comprehensive experience and it’s given me a good base foundation of information that I can really take with me anywhere.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720788495.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-AIRES will be hub for cutting-edge education, Pure Imagination Studios</h2>As Kansas State University’s College of Aviation and Technology, the Salina campus is setting the standard for technical education, especially in the aerospace and technology industries. Through its expertise in pioneering technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and cyber-physical systems, K-State Salina is shaping the future of education and advancing the mission of Kansas State University as the next-generation land-grant university.“The instructors at K-State Salina have done a great job of introducing us to new technology,” Kerschen said. “As students, we have this unique opportunity to play with VR headsets and engage in that immersive experience, and we have a lot of tools that allow us to get hands-on with our own educational experiments.”In August, K-State Salina broke ground on facilities for its new, one-of-a-kind partnership with Pure Imagination Studios, a global leader in immersive entertainment.This collaboration led to the creation of the K-AIRES center, a $41 million, 47,500-square-foot facility that will be a hub for cutting-edge education and innovation. K-AIRES will house a production lab for Pure Imagination Studios, which has worked on high-profile projects for Netflix, DreamWorks, FOX, The LEGO Group, Marvel Entertainment and others.“Our students will be working alongside Pure Imagination employees and creatives learning how the industry works,” said Michael Oetken, assistant professor in immersive systems design and director of K-AIRES. “They’ll get to work on projects with Pure Imagination Labs as well as engage in experiential learning with K-State Salina faculty. It’s an exciting new chapter in applied learning on our campus and a great way to gain an education.”K-State is not waiting for construction to be complete. Students are already learning how to apply advanced technologies daily, from cyber-physical systems to how software and data components interact with the world.Students are already learning how to autonomously navigate drones through programming, control systems, computer vision and image processing.“At K-State Salina, we are changing the landscape of education,” said Balaji Balasubramaniam, assistant professor in computer systems technology and graduate program coordinator for the machine learning and autonomous systems certificate. “We are giving the students the experience of using these advanced technologies in the classroom. Students are provided opportunities to immerse themselves through work-study, hands-on projects in class and assisting in research.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732720689531.jpeg" alt="Balaju Balasubramaniam, assistant professor, instructs students on website terminology during class" />
 <figcaption>Balaju Balasubramaniam, assistant professor, instructs students on website terminology during class</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State Salina students learn real-world skills to build the future</h2>K-State Salina is not only transforming higher education, but also preparing students for careers in industries that are rapidly evolving.One area seeing massive technological growth is agriculture, where K-State Salina’s expertise in AI, VR and machine learning is making an impact.Agriculture companies are embracing AI and digital technologies to enhance precision farming. From tractor mapping software to AI-driven agricultural spray aircraft, these innovations are making farming more efficient and cost-effective.Austin Chart, a graduate student in integrated systems design and dynamics, Salina, is using K-State Salina’s advanced technologies to improve agricultural practices.“Farming in general has been a lot more systematic, it’s become much more precision-based, and that level of precision is becoming more and more accurate by the day, especially with this type of technology,” Chart said. “Innovations like machine learning, autonomous systems and AI help producers save money because farmers, using the tools and machines at their disposal, understand their land best and know where to properly apply products.”Students at K-State Salina have access to industry-standard tools like VR headsets, robots, three-dimensional modeling software and programming software like Unreal Engine — all of which allow them to experiment and build their own projects.The combination of hands-on learning, industry partnerships and cutting-edge technology sets K-State Salina apart.Chart credits the hands-on nature of K-State Salina’s courses and the faculty’s connections to industry in helping him prepare to affect the agriculture industry with new technologies.“Getting your education at K-State Salina feels a little bit like you’re at Hogwarts," Chart said. "We’re not just reading a book — we’re learning the spells. Students are creating programs, creating games and doing these things hands-on and in real-time. I think it’s something that distinguishes K-State from a lot of others around country.”

K-State Salina's virtual reality education is like ‘learning the spells’ at Hogwarts

Q:&nbsp;What is your mindset going into a two-minute drill? Is it really just like any other drive?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think more than anything you just know that you need to go out there and execute at a high level. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid puts us in those high-pressure scenarios all throughout training camp, OTAs, all stuff like that, and you just go out there and just do what’s necessary to win the game. If that’s running the ball, throwing the ball or whatever it takes and you know what situations (to) get out of bounds, get up the field (and) everything like that so you just prepare yourself to go out there and execute.”

Q: It seemed like last game you guys found a rhythm, what contributed to that? Do you feel like that as well?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I mean I think we’re getting healthier as an offense and then just getting more and more reps with guys. I think as the season goes on you figure out what guys are best at, and the new guys are really showing what they’re great at. Getting D-Hop (DeAndre Hopkins) in one-on-one matchups, getting Xavier (Worthy) – letting him stretch the field but also work underneath as well. To add with the guys that I’ve gotten a lot of reps with, we had a good day offensively and now it’s about building and trying to continue to build throughout the rest of the season.”

Q: After watching film on your long run, is there anything you missed in real-time?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think I didn’t see – I saw the one block that Justin Watson had but I didn’t see him get a piece of the other guy as well. That made the play and was able to let me through the gap there. That just speaks to the effort that he’s playing with, doing whatever it takes to win, and you want those guys on the team. The only thing I would say is probably try not to fumble (trying to) switch the ball to the other hand at the end of the play. Even though I told (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) I was fumbling so that the clock would run so if he asks, that’s why I did it.”

Q: What is it about the urgency in late game situations that allows the offense to efficiently move the ball down the field?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just a little bit of just being ourselves, being prepared for the moment. Obviously, you want to do it throughout the entire game but when it’s kind of – the best way to say it is do or die time and you have to make it happen, it seems like guys just go out there and make it happen. We’re prepared for those moments and (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid prepares us, all of the coaches prepare us, and the guys go out there and do what needs to be done.”

Q: How do you guys prepare for those late game situations?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“We go through those situations every single week throughout the entire year just so we’re ready for the moment, whatever moment arises in the game. If that’s certain checks that we can get to, if that’s ways that you get out of bounds and the rules. All the different rules of when the clock stops, when it doesn’t stop. When is first down more important than getting out of bounds, stuff like that. The coaches prepare us and so like when I had the run there at the end, knowing that we have three timeouts and knowing that even if I get tackled and get the first down, that’s probably more important than getting out of bounds in that certain situation. You have to be prepared for those moments and be able to go out there and execute whenever you get the opportunity to.”

Q: Do you think defenders are weary of hitting quarterbacks in those sideline situations?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean of course. There’s – you get flags for hitting guys where they’re out of bounds. Like I said in the San Francisco game, if I’m running up field, I feel like you can tell that I’m running down the field versus running out of bounds. I don’t want to put those guys in bad situations. I want to play the game the way the game is supposed to be played. I didn’t feel like I was too close to out of bounds this time but I’m just trying find a way to win the game at the end of the game.”

Q: What was the vibe after the Panthers game?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think we just hold ourselves to an extremely high standard and so unless we feel like we play our best, guys are itching to get back out there and go for more. I felt there was times (where) we played some good football and credit to the Panthers, they played some great football (and) they made a lot of big time plays. We were able to find a way to get a win at the end of the game and I think it’s not something that we were disappointed as much as we expect greatness from each other and from ourselves. Unless we play like we expect we should play, we’re going to strive to be better every time we step on that football field.”

Q: What do you anticipate in the return from Isiah Pacheco?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“He’s (Isiah Pacheco) going to be Pop, man. I mean, obviously, we’re going to have to work him back to when he’s ready and then get him when he gets on the field and not try to overdo it. He’s going to have energy; he’s going to want to be on the football field but I think it’s good that we have a good room of running backs that we can kind of not make him go out there and take 30 carries or whatever it is. We can just kind of let him be who he is and make those big plays happen and then bring him along as the season goes.”

Q: Head Coach Andy Reid has always said that he appreciates the locker room leadership. Given all the injuries and the amount of changes this season, do you think this has been a more unique challenge?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just having a standard every single day. You would think it would be a different challenge, but I think with the guys that the coaches have brought in the guys understand that this is how we work, this is how we practice, this how we get after it on a day-to-day basis. We’re probably in the building more than a lot of teams, we’re probably on the practice field more than a lot of teams but it’s the standard that we’ve kind of upheld and that starts at the top and it goes throughout the entire team. Whenever you get in these tough times, you know that we’ve been through this together (and) we’ve held ourselves to these standards that we’re going to go out there and win. I’m one of those leaders but there’s many of them. It’s not just me. I don’t have to – I don’t have to talk a lot, honestly, because we have a lot of leaders throughout the entire team that kind of hold themselves accountable.”

Q: On the revolving door of the receivers throughout the season.

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, 100 percent. I think just us being able to utilize their (the receivers) strengths in the offense and then me being on that same page with them. The more reps you get of that, the better it is. Obviously, you want to get those reps in training camp, but we had injuries and stuff like that (where) we’ve kind of had to move through that and work through that throughout the entire season. I feel like we’re getting better and better each and every week and that’s all you can ask for. You want to be playing your best football at the end of the year and we’re getting there so I think we’re getting better throughout the year.”

Q: What makes Raiders DE Maxx Crosby so effective?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“The way he (Raiders DE Maxx Crosby) plays every single snap, no matter the score, no matter if it’s a run or a pass (or) whatever it is, he’s going to give you everything he’s got. Obviously, (he’s) physically gifted. He can make all of the different pass rush moves (and) everything like that, but the way he plays I think inspires his team to play that hard and that’s what you need to be great in this league.”

Q: What would you start, bench and cut out of turkey, yams and macaroni and cheese?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’m cutting turkey – probably – the other two I love. I’ll probably start macaroni and cheese if it’s made the right way and then bench yams, but I love those too.”

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s just like – I don’t want to get too much into it, but the right way. Everybody knows what I’m saying (laughter).”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Quick week – we’re onto the Raiders. I’m still burning a little bit from the last one. It was a win so we’re happy about that but other than that, I’ll think I’ll just open it up (to questions) and let you guys fire away.”

Q:&nbsp;On the last few minutes of the Panthers game.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I never like to finish a game like that and put Patrick (Mahomes) and the offense in that kind of situation. It would’ve been nice to win the fourth down or somewhere along the way get (to) a stop there where – we’ve been through this – we’ve actually practiced this a couple of times on purpose. I’ve put the guys in situations in a walk through where I’ve said, ‘Okay, they just scored. If we stop the two-point play, we win the game,’ because when people score on you, you tend to – now, I think our guys were ready to play the play. It didn’t work out that way, but that’s what kind of got me upset.”

Q:&nbsp;What is the concern with not being able to generate a lot of pressure on the quarterback without blitzing?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I don’t know. I mean, it’s a lot of different things. We have to find some one-on-ones, maybe we can call something a little bit differently. There’s a lot of different reasons for it. They (opposing offenses) block – they tend to block us pass rush-wise a little differently mainly because of Chris (Jones), so we have to figure out those things in the middle of the game. We just haven’t – it hasn’t been quite where we want it yet. We have a little way to go (and) hopefully it shows up this week.”

Q:&nbsp;On the quick turnaround during a short week.

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That’s a good point, it is. We’re right back into it and away we go. Normally, it takes Maria (Spagnuolo) 48 hours to snap me out of it somehow, but she said, ‘You better get going because you have a game right around the corner,’ so I guess that is a good thing. Listen, they’re - the guys - that go through it physically – I’m talking about our guys, right? They might feel a little bit differently, but we’re ready to go.”

Q: Can you take us through the preparation for the two-minute drill and the scenarios?

NAGY:&nbsp;“There’s a lot of them and we try to do some of that during OTAs (and) talk through scenarios. I think (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) does a phenomenal job in training camp of trying to play those out as much as you can. There are some different situations that arise and there’s so many elements that go into it with the situational football part, but I think the other part that’s pretty cool is (that) Pat (Patrick Mahomes) is so good with all that stuff as well. He understands it so he’s always going to give his input in certain situations and just that combination of Coach and – Coach Reid, Coach (Pass Game Coordinator Joe) Bleymaier, myself, the other assistant coaches and Pat try to just be as best as you can.”

Q: Is it a challenge in some of those two-minute meetings to get the guys engaged?

NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s actually not (hard) at all because they all have opinions but it’s good. I think it initiates conversation and what I find that’s really neat about it – and I don’t want to leave out (Statistical Analysis Coordinator) Mike Frazier either. Mike Frazier does a phenomenal job with situational football. I think everyone knows and remembers last year in the overtime with the rules and stuff, but he does way more than that (with) helping us with situations, so when the players become involved, it just opens discussion. I think it’s fascinating when you get into it as to what’s right (or) what’s wrong and maybe there is no correct answer, per se, until after the play happens and everybody is quick to judge.”

Q: What is the feeling when you come off the field after winning on the last play of the game?

QB PATRICK MAHOMESQ:&nbsp;What is your mindset going into a two-minute drill? Is it really just like any other drive?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think more than anything you just know that you need to go out there and execute at a high level. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid puts us in those high-pressure scenarios all throughout training camp, OTAs, all stuff like that, and you just go out there and just do what’s necessary to win the game. If that’s running the ball, throwing the ball or whatever it takes and you know what situations (to) get out of bounds, get up the field (and) everything like that so you just prepare yourself to go out there and execute.”Q: It seemed like last game you guys found a rhythm, what contributed to that? Do you feel like that as well?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I mean I think we’re getting healthier as an offense and then just getting more and more reps with guys. I think as the season goes on you figure out what guys are best at, and the new guys are really showing what they’re great at. Getting D-Hop (DeAndre Hopkins) in one-on-one matchups, getting Xavier (Worthy) – letting him stretch the field but also work underneath as well. To add with the guys that I’ve gotten a lot of reps with, we had a good day offensively and now it’s about building and trying to continue to build throughout the rest of the season.”Q: After watching film on your long run, is there anything you missed in real-time?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think I didn’t see – I saw the one block that Justin Watson had but I didn’t see him get a piece of the other guy as well. That made the play and was able to let me through the gap there. That just speaks to the effort that he’s playing with, doing whatever it takes to win, and you want those guys on the team. The only thing I would say is probably try not to fumble (trying to) switch the ball to the other hand at the end of the play. Even though I told (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) I was fumbling so that the clock would run so if he asks, that’s why I did it.”Q: What is it about the urgency in late game situations that allows the offense to efficiently move the ball down the field?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just a little bit of just being ourselves, being prepared for the moment. Obviously, you want to do it throughout the entire game but when it’s kind of – the best way to say it is do or die time and you have to make it happen, it seems like guys just go out there and make it happen. We’re prepared for those moments and (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid prepares us, all of the coaches prepare us, and the guys go out there and do what needs to be done.”Q: How do you guys prepare for those late game situations?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“We go through those situations every single week throughout the entire year just so we’re ready for the moment, whatever moment arises in the game. If that’s certain checks that we can get to, if that’s ways that you get out of bounds and the rules. All the different rules of when the clock stops, when it doesn’t stop. When is first down more important than getting out of bounds, stuff like that. The coaches prepare us and so like when I had the run there at the end, knowing that we have three timeouts and knowing that even if I get tackled and get the first down, that’s probably more important than getting out of bounds in that certain situation. You have to be prepared for those moments and be able to go out there and execute whenever you get the opportunity to.”Q: Do you think defenders are weary of hitting quarterbacks in those sideline situations?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean of course. There’s – you get flags for hitting guys where they’re out of bounds. Like I said in the San Francisco game, if I’m running up field, I feel like you can tell that I’m running down the field versus running out of bounds. I don’t want to put those guys in bad situations. I want to play the game the way the game is supposed to be played. I didn’t feel like I was too close to out of bounds this time but I’m just trying find a way to win the game at the end of the game.”Q: What was the vibe after the Panthers game?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think we just hold ourselves to an extremely high standard and so unless we feel like we play our best, guys are itching to get back out there and go for more. I felt there was times (where) we played some good football and credit to the Panthers, they played some great football (and) they made a lot of big time plays. We were able to find a way to get a win at the end of the game and I think it’s not something that we were disappointed as much as we expect greatness from each other and from ourselves. Unless we play like we expect we should play, we’re going to strive to be better every time we step on that football field.”Q: What do you anticipate in the return from Isiah Pacheco?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“He’s (Isiah Pacheco) going to be Pop, man. I mean, obviously, we’re going to have to work him back to when he’s ready and then get him when he gets on the field and not try to overdo it. He’s going to have energy; he’s going to want to be on the football field but I think it’s good that we have a good room of running backs that we can kind of not make him go out there and take 30 carries or whatever it is. We can just kind of let him be who he is and make those big plays happen and then bring him along as the season goes.”Q: Head Coach Andy Reid has always said that he appreciates the locker room leadership. Given all the injuries and the amount of changes this season, do you think this has been a more unique challenge?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just having a standard every single day. You would think it would be a different challenge, but I think with the guys that the coaches have brought in the guys understand that this is how we work, this is how we practice, this how we get after it on a day-to-day basis. We’re probably in the building more than a lot of teams, we’re probably on the practice field more than a lot of teams but it’s the standard that we’ve kind of upheld and that starts at the top and it goes throughout the entire team. Whenever you get in these tough times, you know that we’ve been through this together (and) we’ve held ourselves to these standards that we’re going to go out there and win. I’m one of those leaders but there’s many of them. It’s not just me. I don’t have to – I don’t have to talk a lot, honestly, because we have a lot of leaders throughout the entire team that kind of hold themselves accountable.”Q: On the revolving door of the receivers throughout the season.MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, 100 percent. I think just us being able to utilize their (the receivers) strengths in the offense and then me being on that same page with them. The more reps you get of that, the better it is. Obviously, you want to get those reps in training camp, but we had injuries and stuff like that (where) we’ve kind of had to move through that and work through that throughout the entire season. I feel like we’re getting better and better each and every week and that’s all you can ask for. You want to be playing your best football at the end of the year and we’re getting there so I think we’re getting better throughout the year.”Q: What makes Raiders DE Maxx Crosby so effective?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“The way he (Raiders DE Maxx Crosby) plays every single snap, no matter the score, no matter if it’s a run or a pass (or) whatever it is, he’s going to give you everything he’s got. Obviously, (he’s) physically gifted. He can make all of the different pass rush moves (and) everything like that, but the way he plays I think inspires his team to play that hard and that’s what you need to be great in this league.”Q: What would you start, bench and cut out of turkey, yams and macaroni and cheese?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’m cutting turkey – probably – the other two I love. I’ll probably start macaroni and cheese if it’s made the right way and then bench yams, but I love those too.”Q:&nbsp;What is the right way?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s just like – I don’t want to get too much into it, but the right way. Everybody knows what I’m saying (laughter).”Chiefs Coordinator QuotesNovember 26, 2024DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLOOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Quick week – we’re onto the Raiders. I’m still burning a little bit from the last one. It was a win so we’re happy about that but other than that, I’ll think I’ll just open it up (to questions) and let you guys fire away.”Q:&nbsp;On the last few minutes of the Panthers game.SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I never like to finish a game like that and put Patrick (Mahomes) and the offense in that kind of situation. It would’ve been nice to win the fourth down or somewhere along the way get (to) a stop there where – we’ve been through this – we’ve actually practiced this a couple of times on purpose. I’ve put the guys in situations in a walk through where I’ve said, ‘Okay, they just scored. If we stop the two-point play, we win the game,’ because when people score on you, you tend to – now, I think our guys were ready to play the play. It didn’t work out that way, but that’s what kind of got me upset.”Q:&nbsp;What is the concern with not being able to generate a lot of pressure on the quarterback without blitzing?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“I don’t know. I mean, it’s a lot of different things. We have to find some one-on-ones, maybe we can call something a little bit differently. There’s a lot of different reasons for it. They (opposing offenses) block – they tend to block us pass rush-wise a little differently mainly because of Chris (Jones), so we have to figure out those things in the middle of the game. We just haven’t – it hasn’t been quite where we want it yet. We have a little way to go (and) hopefully it shows up this week.”Q:&nbsp;On the quick turnaround during a short week.SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“That’s a good point, it is. We’re right back into it and away we go. Normally, it takes Maria (Spagnuolo) 48 hours to snap me out of it somehow, but she said, ‘You better get going because you have a game right around the corner,’ so I guess that is a good thing. Listen, they’re - the guys - that go through it physically – I’m talking about our guys, right? They might feel a little bit differently, but we’re ready to go.”OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR MATT NAGYQ: Can you take us through the preparation for the two-minute drill and the scenarios?NAGY:&nbsp;“There’s a lot of them and we try to do some of that during OTAs (and) talk through scenarios. I think (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) does a phenomenal job in training camp of trying to play those out as much as you can. There are some different situations that arise and there’s so many elements that go into it with the situational football part, but I think the other part that’s pretty cool is (that) Pat (Patrick Mahomes) is so good with all that stuff as well. He understands it so he’s always going to give his input in certain situations and just that combination of Coach and – Coach Reid, Coach (Pass Game Coordinator Joe) Bleymaier, myself, the other assistant coaches and Pat try to just be as best as you can.”Q: Is it a challenge in some of those two-minute meetings to get the guys engaged?NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s actually not (hard) at all because they all have opinions but it’s good. I think it initiates conversation and what I find that’s really neat about it – and I don’t want to leave out (Statistical Analysis Coordinator) Mike Frazier either. Mike Frazier does a phenomenal job with situational football. I think everyone knows and remembers last year in the overtime with the rules and stuff, but he does way more than that (with) helping us with situations, so when the players become involved, it just opens discussion. I think it’s fascinating when you get into it as to what’s right (or) what’s wrong and maybe there is no correct answer, per se, until after the play happens and everybody is quick to judge.”Q: What is the feeling when you come off the field after winning on the last play of the game?

Chiefs Quotes: 11-26-24

Game 12nr/rv/rv K-State at 22/17/17 Iowa State

TV: FOX (<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/kansas-state-wildcats-vs-iowa-state-cyclones-nov-30-2024-game-boxscore-40995">watch</a>)

Radio: K-State Sports Network; <a href="http://k-statesports.com/">k-statesports.com</a> (<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/watch">Listen</a>)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	Wyatt Thompson (Play-by-Play)&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	Stan Weber (Analyst)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	Matt Walters (Sidelines)

SiriusXM Satellite Radio Ch. 388, and on the SiriusXM App

<a href="https://tunein.com/radio/Big-12-Radio-s329464/">Big 12 Radio on TuneIn</a>

X Updates: @KStateFB and @KStateStatsInfo

THE TOP 51) Coming off a convincing 41-15 win over Cincinnati in the home finale, Kansas State will close out the 2024 regular season on the road as the Wildcats travel to face 17th-ranked Iowa State at Jack Trice Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Saturday night, will be shown nationally on FOX with Connor Onion (play-by-play) and Mark Helfrich (analyst) on the call.

2) Quarterback Avery Johnson is set to make his 13th career start as he has thrown for 2,297 yards and 19 TDs on 190-of-314 aim while adding 484 rushing yards and six scores. He is one of only four players in the country and the only Big 12 QB with at least 2,275 passing yards and 475 rushing yards. His 19 passing touchdowns are a new K-State record for a sophomore as he passed Josh Freeman (18 in 2007).

3) Junior running back DJ Giddens has rushed for 1,271 yards and seven touchdowns on 191 carries to go along with 21 receptions for 258 yards and another score. Giddens ranks ninth nationally in rushing yards, while he is sixth in the nation with 1,529 scrimmage yards thanks to his 258 receiving yards. He is the fourth player in school history with multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

4) K-State has seven players with 40 or more tackles this season, led by linebacker Austin Romaine, whose 77 tackles rank 13th in the Big 12. Senior defensive end Brendan Mott has 10.5 TFLs and 8.5 sacks, the latter ranking 16th in the nation and tops int he Big 12. Six Wildcats have carded an interception this season, led by Marques Sigle's three to rank sixth in the Big 12.

5) Chris Tennant has been true on 16-of-19 field goals, including a 51-yarder with 1:42 left to give the Wildcats a 29-27 win over Kansas. Tennant ranks in the top 10 in school history in eight career categories. Simon McClannan is tied for sixth in the Big 12 with 14 punts that have ended inside the opponent 20-yard line. Dylan Edwards has recorded 336 total return yards to rank sixth in the Big 12.

STATISTICAL SPOTLIGHTS231 – Opponents' lost yardage on K-State's 30 sacks this season, which is tied for ninth in the nation.

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

9 – Number of night games the Cats will have played this season, the most in a regular season in the Big 12 era (since 1996).

7 – Number of 200-plus yard rushing games this season, which are the most in the Big 12 Conference.

3 – DJ Giddens became the third player in school history to eclipse the 3,000-yard rushing mark for a career.

• K-State got back on track in the win column last weekend as the Wildcats dominated Cincinnati, 41-15, on Senior Night at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.

• DJ Giddens rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns, while Avery Johnson was 13-of-23 through the air for 147 yards and two scores and also added 72 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

• K-State had suffered back-to-back losses as the Wildcats dropped a 24-14 decision to Arizona State, which came on the heels of a 24-19 loss at Houston prior to its second bye week of the season.

• The Wildcats entered the game at Houston on a four-game winning streak, capped by a dramatic 29-27 dramatic win over Kansas – its 16th-straight win over the Jayhawks – as linebacker Austin Romaine forced a fumble on defense before Chris Tennant nailed a 51-yard field goal with 1:42 left for the two-point win.

• The defense settled in and held the Jayhawks scoreless in their final four drives with the Romaine forced fumble and Brendan Mott recovery leading to the game-winning drive.

• With its sixth victory of the year at West Virginia, Kansas State will be playing in the postseason for a fourth-straight season and the 13th time in the last 15 years.

• Entering the year, K-State was one of just 16 Power 4 programs to play in a bowl game at least 12 times in the previous 14 years.

• K-State has a total of 230 victories since 1996, which ranks 22nd nationally.

• Among active Big 12 teams, the Wildcats rank fourth behind BYU (237), TCU (236) and Utah (232).

• Over the last 15 seasons – including 2024 – the Wildcats have won at least seven games on 13 occasions.

• K-State has now won at least eight games in each of the last four seasons, including 2024. It is the Wildcats' longest streak since doing so over the 2011 (10), 2012 (11), 2013 (8) and 2014 (9) seasons.

• The Wildcats are tied for the fifth in the country with their four-straight seasons of at least eight wins.

• K-State has 35 wins since 2021, which is tied for 14th nationally and first among active Big 12 teams.

• Kansas State is looking for its ninth regular-season win this Saturday at Iowa State.

• It would be the second time in the last three seasons that K-State won nine regular season games (2022).

• Kansas State has produced 14 years with at least nine regular seasons wins: 1910 (10), 1994 (9), 1995 (9), 1996 (9), 1997 (10), 1998 (11), 1999 (10), 2000 (10), 2002 (10), 2003 (10), 2011 (10), 2012 (11), 2014 (9) and 2022 (9).

• Kansas State has totaled 144 Big 12 victories since the conference’s formation in 1996, which stands as the most among active Big 12 programs.

• The Cats are also second among active Big 12 members in winning percentage since non-divisional play began in 2011. They sit at 60.0% (75-50), trailing only Oklahoma State (61.6%; 77-48).

• During that stretch, the Wildcats are 42-21 (66.7%) at home in Big 12 play and 33-29 (5.32%) on the road.

• K-State fell out of the Associated Press Top 25 last week as the Wildcats were ranked in the previous 12 polls.

• It was the first time K-State had been ranked in the first 12 AP polls of a season since appearing in all 17 polls in 2014.

• K-State has been ranked in the AP Top 25 on 243 occasions since 1993, the most among active Big 12 teams and ranked 22nd nationally.

• Kansas State is playing its ninth night game this Saturday, including six that will have kicked off after 7 p.m. local time.

• It is the most night games in a season since the 2012 season saw the Wildcats also play in nine night games, but one of those was the Fiesta Bowl.

• This is the first time the Wildcats will have played nine night games during the regular season in the Big 12 era (1996).

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

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

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

• A proven winner with a championship history, Chris Klieman holds a 119-40 career record, as his 74.8% career winning percentage ranks fourth among current FBS coaches that have led programs for at least 10 seasons. He is also one of just 18 current Power 4 head coaches with at least 100 career victories.

• Klieman, who is 47-26 since arriving at K-State, has led the Cats to five victories over teams ranked in the top 10 of the AP Top 25, the most of any active Big 12 program since 2019.

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

• After sitting at minus-2 in turnover margin and ranking 93rd in the nation entering the Oklahoma State game, the Wildcats are now +1 on the year and ranked 57th.

• K-State is the nation’s best in non-offensive touchdowns over the last 25-plus seasons as it has 135 since 1999, nine more than the next closest team (Alabama – 125).

• K-State has recorded four non-offensive scores this season, its most since also recording four in 2020.

• The four non-offensive TDs this year are: a Ty Bowman blocked punt against UT Martin that was returned for a score by Colby McCalister, a 60-yard rumble return by Jack Fabris at Tulane, a 71-yard punt return by Dylan Edwards against Arizona, and a 43-yard interception return by Marques Sigle at West Virginia.

• Kansas State is 3-1 in one-possession games this season, with all three of its wins being in comeback fashion.

• The Wildcats' three wins this season when trailing in the fourth quarter are the most since 2017.

• K-State trailed Kansas, 27-26, until Chris Tennant's 51-yard field goal with 1:42 left sparked a K-State win.

• K-State trailed 28-24 at Colorado before the game-winning 50-yard touchdown pass from Avery Johnson to Jayce Brown with 2:14 left.

• In Week 2 at Tulane, K-State rallied from a 20-10 halftime deficit to take a 34-27 win, which included a Dylan Edwards touchdown run and a Jack Fabris fumble return to erase a seven-point fourth-quarter deficit.