HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Tourism unveiled its Mobile Visitor Center (MVC) on Thursday at the Kansas State Fair with a ribbon cutting inside the Pride of Kansas building.

The MVC will attend major sporting events, fairs, trade shows and festivals in and out of the state to help attract guests to visit Kansas.

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland and&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed joined Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe at the event on Thursday.

“Kansas is home to endless views, unique geography, one of a kind sights, vibrant communities and amazing people," Reed said. "Whether its a road trip that takes you to the Gypsum Hills, a treasure hunt on US-36, a camping trip to one of our many beautiful lakes, or hiking and biking on over 800 miles of biking and pedestrian trails in our state, Kansas is a destination for all road trips. Today, I am proud to be a part of the unveiling of the Kansas Mobile Visitors Center, which will provide us with the opportunity to showcase our amazing state."

Toland talked about how the idea and vision came about for the MVC.

"About a year and a half ago we had a series of conversations with the Kansas Tourism team," Toland said. "They were about the World Cup and specifically the east side of the state and the need for a visitors information center somewhere along I-70. So we had some conversations and decided to talk to KDOT to see what we could do."

Toland says Reed and his staff listened to the idea and had an even better vision.

"KDOT came with a concept of a mobile visitor center," Toland said. "They did some research about what cities around the country had been doing. There is a model where you don't wait for them to come to you, you go to them. You go to the people you want to bring to your place."

Toland and his staff were skeptical of this vision in the beginning, but now has a different opinion.

"They (KDOT) were right," Toland said. "They were absolutely right that we need to think differently about how we bring people to Kansas. It's not just about expecting them to pull off the highway and stop at our place. We need to go to Dallas, to Denver, to Ames, Iowa, to Lincoln, Nebraska, to Chicago and make the case for why they should come here."&nbsp;

Toland was very appreciative and supportive for all of the hard work done to bring visitors to the Sunflower State by Kansas Tourism and its Director Bridgette Jobe.

"I also want to think the Kansas Tourism team, because they are always open to those new ideas," Toland said. "Kansas has now achieved visitation numbers that are dramatically above where we were pre-COVID. We've got more people to come to Kansas than ever before, and that's because this team is getting out there and hustling. They're doing it in-person, they're going to the trade shows and our numbers are way up."

The van will hit the road shortly after the Kansas State Fair to make its debut outside of the state.

"I think two days after the fair is over he (Kevin Crockett) is heading to Nebraska City for a major event," Jobe said. "We have it scheduled to be on the road every week between now and the end of the year."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726172844931.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Tourism unveiled its Mobile Visitor Center (MVC) on Thursday at the Kansas State Fair with a ribbon cutting inside the Pride of Kansas building.The MVC will attend major sporting events, fairs, trade shows and festivals in and out of the state to help attract guests to visit Kansas.Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland and&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed joined Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe at the event on Thursday.“Kansas is home to endless views, unique geography, one of a kind sights, vibrant communities and amazing people," Reed said. "Whether its a road trip that takes you to the Gypsum Hills, a treasure hunt on US-36, a camping trip to one of our many beautiful lakes, or hiking and biking on over 800 miles of biking and pedestrian trails in our state, Kansas is a destination for all road trips. Today, I am proud to be a part of the unveiling of the Kansas Mobile Visitors Center, which will provide us with the opportunity to showcase our amazing state."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726172904770.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>Toland talked about how the idea and vision came about for the MVC."About a year and a half ago we had a series of conversations with the Kansas Tourism team," Toland said. "They were about the World Cup and specifically the east side of the state and the need for a visitors information center somewhere along I-70. So we had some conversations and decided to talk to KDOT to see what we could do."Toland says Reed and his staff listened to the idea and had an even better vision."KDOT came with a concept of a mobile visitor center," Toland said. "They did some research about what cities around the country had been doing. There is a model where you don't wait for them to come to you, you go to them. You go to the people you want to bring to your place."Toland and his staff were skeptical of this vision in the beginning, but now has a different opinion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726172963986.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland cuts the ribbon at the ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland cuts the ribbon at the ceremony for the Kansas Tourism Mobile Visitors Center at the Kansas State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>"They (KDOT) were right," Toland said. "They were absolutely right that we need to think differently about how we bring people to Kansas. It's not just about expecting them to pull off the highway and stop at our place. We need to go to Dallas, to Denver, to Ames, Iowa, to Lincoln, Nebraska, to Chicago and make the case for why they should come here."&nbsp;Toland was very appreciative and supportive for all of the hard work done to bring visitors to the Sunflower State by Kansas Tourism and its Director Bridgette Jobe."I also want to think the Kansas Tourism team, because they are always open to those new ideas," Toland said. "Kansas has now achieved visitation numbers that are dramatically above where we were pre-COVID. We've got more people to come to Kansas than ever before, and that's because this team is getting out there and hustling. They're doing it in-person, they're going to the trade shows and our numbers are way up."The van will hit the road shortly after the Kansas State Fair to make its debut outside of the state."I think two days after the fair is over he (Kevin Crockett) is heading to Nebraska City for a major event," Jobe said. "We have it scheduled to be on the road every week between now and the end of the year."

Kansas Tourism unveils new mobile visitors center 

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, before I get started, just a quick shout out to this being 9/11 – the 23rd&nbsp;year (since it happened) - to the victims of 9/11 and the first responders, for sure. Our hats go off to those who sacrifice so we can do what we do here. The Bengals. We look forward to the challenge of playing the Bengals, they’re a heck of a football team. We know we’ve got to have a good week of preparation. As far as the injuries go, really, we – the only person – Hollywood (Brown) is the only one that’s banged up there so he’s continuing to rehab and get himself up, but he won’t be out there today. Other than that, the time’s yours.”

Q: Does that indicate that Hollywood Brown won’t play Sunday?

REID:&nbsp;“Not necessarily, yeah. I wouldn’t say that.”

Q: The Bengals usually start off slow early in the year. Can you put your finger on the reason why?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, they’re a good football team. They’re very well coached – I mean, (Bengals Head Coach) Zac (Taylor) does a great job. They do a great job on the defensive side and special teams. Right now, they’re just trying to get their guys back together that aren’t able to play, but we know that they’re going to come in here and be ready to go. I don’t know what’s gone on in the past or (about) anything else but I know every time we play each other it’s a heck of a football game.”

Q: You guys usually get a team’s best shot. What ways do you notice that materialize during a game?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, execution is the biggest one. That’s normally what you get and good, aggressive play. I’d tell you guys that tempos are different when you take each level, and the playoffs is kind of a crazy deal. When teams like this play each other, it’s just a different tempo, for whatever reason. I don’t know why but that’s how it goes.”

Q: You guys got the contract done with Noah Gray. What does he mean for both the present and the future?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Noah Gray) a good football player and he does a lot for us. He’s one of those guys that doesn’t get a whole lot of credit for all that he does but (he’s a) big time special teams player, great tight end. We do a bunch of double tight stuff plus he’s able to go in and spot (Travis) Kelce. He comes out of games with quite a few snaps because of the special teams. You know, he’s a four-phase guy there, can do anything (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave (Toub) needs him to do there and is willing and he loves being here so – and a great guy on top of all that.”

Q: What stood out to you about Rashee Rice in the Ravens game?

REID:&nbsp;“He (Rashee Rice) was more comfortable than he was last year, which makes sense, just having had the reps and experience. The one thing that he does well is he catches it and he gets himself up field. He’s a good, consistent catcher, works himself up field (and) is tough – plays physical. (At) the same time, he’s a willing blocker. (He’ll) get in there and mix it up there, so he’s really developing his whole game in all areas. He’ll keep rolling but it’s a way smaller margin than what he had to grow from the beginning here last year.”

Q: Do you think that Samaje Perine is a little more comfortable this week?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (Samaje Perine) did a nice job for us. I don’t want to take anything away from him. He jumped in and had everything down and was able to play a few snaps for us. He’s going to be familiar with half of the guys that are on this team (the Bengals). He knows the routine there (and) a lot of the players.”

Q: The Week 1 passing offense around the league was not up to the standard that it usually is. Why do you think that is?

REID:&nbsp;“It takes time for that to develop, I think, that part of the game. A lot of variables will go into it just with the execution as opposed to handing the ball off to somebody. Between the timing and knowing your receivers and then all these secondaries that the defenses throw at you. It takes a little bit of time; the time’s been reduced in areas. Then – anyways, that’s what I see.”

Q: With the kind of game that Xavier Worthy had last week this early in the season, what can that do for him moving forward?

REID:&nbsp;“He (Xavier Worthy) did a nice job for us. Again, even with his size he was willing to get in the mix of the run game part of it. Having the success he had I think is a positive for a young guy to get going. Are you guaranteed two touchdowns every game? That’s not necessarily in the contract but it was great for him to get started that way. He knows that he can play at this level now and if he had any questions – I didn’t sense he had any questions – but if he did, those were answered.”

Q: What do you need to see from Hollywood Brown in practice to feel comfortable with him playing in a game?

REID:&nbsp;“They all set a little different, so I mean it’s something that has to move to get back into place. They all sit just a little different and heal – from what I understand, I’m not a physician by any means so they’re all just a bit different. I mean you’re talking just centimeters of it being off can be a problem. You want to make sure those things are healed and that they’re actually in the right spot. We’re having him (Hollywood Brown) see different people that are experts, I don’t think there’s a ton of data on it, especially in our field here – football. That’s kind of what’s going on but as far as working hard and he feels good, he feels like he’s in a pretty good spot. It’s not him, he would have been out there the last couple of weeks if he had a choice. Not the best – wouldn’t have been the best decision he made but you have to trust the doctors here.”

Q: How did you get the news about 9/11 and what were your memories of that day?

REID:&nbsp;“I was back there. I was back in Philly at that time, so it was a little crazy around that area. I remember talking to (Former NFL Coach) Mike Sherman who was at Green Bay, he called me and he was asking some questions about football, he hadn’t gotten the news out there. I said, ‘Hey you might want to turn the TV on, a little bit of craziness going on in this area here.’ That’s how I found out.”

Q: Were you able to process it in real time?

REID:&nbsp;“I’m not sure anybody could process it. I think everybody just reacted and it really seemed to be in a positive way. I mean from the stories that you hear on how people came to the rescue. That’s the good of mankind, we see some negative things and we have the tendency to harp on it but that right there, that was our country pulling together and working together and we can do some pretty magnificent things when that happens.”

Q:&nbsp;When you’re on the field, in what ways do you notice the energy of these potential AFC contender type teams?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think you just see a raise in intensity just because you know that these games are going to matter at the end of the year. Obviously, it’s early in the season, everybody’s working through stuff, everybody’s trying to get better and better, but you know that this could be a tiebreaker or whatever you want to call it at the end of the year to determine seeding in (the) playoffs. It’s definitely a rise in intensity, especially in these games against other contenders.”

Q:&nbsp;Do you feel the opposing defense talk a little bit more or have more of an edge in these types of games?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I wouldn’t say – usually not early in the season because everybody’s trying to figure stuff out with their teams and trying to do stuff and play fast. (When) you get to (the) playoffs, sometimes there’s a little bit more talking here and there, but early in the season, you play these guys a lot so even though there’s trash talk maybe in the offseason or whatever like that, you have respect for the other guy on the other side of the field. It’s going to be a great game and I’m excited that we get to play it at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.”

Q:&nbsp;Is it weird to be playing the Bengals in Week 2 when you’re used to playing them late in the year?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“For sure. Usually, it’s like the NFL saves it for later in the season knowing it’s going to be kind of one of those seeding games. Our schedule’s very different this year. We have a lot of great teams early. Obviously, we play like every day of the week, so it’s a different schedule. It’s a great test for us to play two of the best teams in the league back-to-back to start off the season, but it’s going to be about how we adjust and respond whenever adversity hits.”

Q:&nbsp;What allowed Rashee Rice to have the day that he did in the season opener?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think he’s just – he’s gotten better and better. I think throughout training camp, throughout (the) end of last year, he’s gotten to be a more versatile receiver where he can do a lot of different things. We can put him on some read routes, we put him on, obviously, a lot of slant routes (and) stuff like that where he can win one-on-one, and he did that. I think as the season goes on, you’re going to see the full arsenal of routes that he can run. I mean, some where he can run deep routes, he can run intermediate routes, he can run those medium routes. I mean, he can do it all. Just having all those other weapons around him as well, it takes off the focus on him that you kind of saw at some points last year. I think that’s just going to make our offense so great.”

Q:&nbsp;What can the success that Xavier Worthy had in the season opener do for him going forward?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just going to be a spark. It shows what he (Xavier Worthy) can do. Obviously, it showed his speed. It showed how he’s able to run routes and find open spaces. It just kind of gives him that confidence. I think he already had it anyways, but to show that he can do it on Sundays or whatever day of the week that we’re playing. It’s just kind of a start for him. We want him to keep building. We want to get him more and more involved in the offense, but a great start.”

Q:&nbsp;What do you feel like Noah Gray brings to the offense and the team as a whole?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“He’s (Noah Gray) just a smart player. (He’s an) extremely smart player that does a lot of physical stuff that we need in this offense. He’s able to get himself open. He makes the catches whenever he’s asked to do it but (he’s) a guy that can just do it all. You need those guys in order to win football games, and he’s one of those guys that he can come in for Travis (Kelce) in spots and I have full confidence that he can go out there and make plays happen as well. He’s learned a ton behind Trav (Travis Kelce), and you can see him getting better and better each and every year. I was happy for him because he’s one of those guys that does it the right way and deserves the contract that he got.”

Q:&nbsp;What was your reaction when former President Donald J. Trump referenced you and your family again today in relation to his campaign?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’ve always said, ‘I don’t want my place and my platform to be used to endorse a candidate or do whatever either way.’ I think my place is to inform people to get registered to vote. It’s to inform people to do their own research and then make their best decision for them and their family. I think that’s – every time I’m on this stage and I get asked these questions, I’m going to refer back to that because I think that’s what makes America so great.”

Q:&nbsp; You were at the U.S Open with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. Is that an important image to show that people who have different philosophies can get along?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean I think I’ve always – even dating back I think if you’ve seen my history I’ve grown up with people from every aspect of life and every background. I think the best thing about a football locker room and kind of how I’ve grown up in baseball locker rooms, everything about that is people can come together and achieve something and achieve a common goal. I think if we can, we talked about it awhile back – but I think if we can do that as a nation, I think that we can get the best out of each other. So, I think that is something I do every single day and whenever I am hanging with whoever I’m not thinking about their political views or anything like that, I’m thinking about the people and how they treat other people. I was with a lot of great people this weekend.”

Q: Does it affect you that former President Donald J. Trump brought up your wife Brittany Mahomes’ name?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“No, I mean I think at the end of the day it’s about me and my family and how we treat other people. I think you see that Brittany (Mahomes) does a lot in the community (and) I do a lot in the community to help bring people up and give people other opportunities to use their voice. In the political times people are going to use stuff here and there, but I can’t let that affect how I go about my business every single day and live my life and try to live it to the best of my ability.”

Q: What’s your reaction to Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola mimicking you?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I mean it’s cool, honestly. I was that guy. I grew up watching players. I remember being – when I (was growing) up, I loved (Former Yankee Shortstop) Alex Rodriguez (who) played shortstop. I would try to make plays just like him and do stuff like that and it helped me become the athlete that I am. It’s just telling me I’m getting a little old. That’s the biggest thing is that you have these guys that are coming up and doing some of the side arm stuff. I know (Nebraska Quarterback) Dylan (Raiola and) I train with him in the off season. (He is) a great kid (and) a great football player. I think he is going to make his own stamp on the game, and I think you have seen that early in his career.”

Q: Has Dylan Raiola acknowledged publicly that he has been mimicking you?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I don’t know if whenever you come in as a freshman you want to be on Twitter and be the part of the team. I think he (Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola) wants it to be about his team. I think that is the right way to play the quarterback position is that it’s not about you, it’s about going out there and having success as a team. They’ve done that so far this year. So, even though – I think he just kind of wants to push this out and play football and go out there and win football games. I think that is the right way to play the position.”

Q: Have you been in contact with Miami WR Tyreek Hill since his recent situation?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“No, I mean I haven’t had any contact with him (Dolphins Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill), but obviously an unfortunate situation. You’re glad that people are bringing light to it and there is an investigation being done to make sure everything was done the right way. Until that investigation is done, I won’t have any comment on it.”

Q: What were your thoughts of Hip-Hop Artist Kendrick Lamar being announced as the next Super Bowl halftime performer. Any thoughts on whether it should have been Kendrick Lamar or Lil Wayne?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Two guys (who) I’ve always loved to listen to their music. I grew up on (hip-hop artist) Lil Wayne and obviously (hip-hop artist) Kendrick (Lamar) has been an icon for a long time. I don’t think you could’ve made a wrong decision. I think both of those guys are great. I’m hopefully in the game, I won’t get to hear either one of them or (whoever) it is. I’m excited for Kendrick to have that platform and show the artist that he is and show the world how hip-hop has really made a movement in our culture.”

Q: What stands out to you on the film of yourself other than your two touchdowns?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like a lot of things that I kind of focused on was understanding the defense. I feel like I did that. So, I just want to carry that over to this week and every other week, just understanding the defense (and) knowing what they’re going to do before every snap.”

Q: What are your thoughts on Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase?

WORTHY: “Man, (Bengals WR) Ja’Marr Chase is an excellent receiver. Just watching him at LSU with (Vikings WR) Justin Jefferson, they obviously made a lot of plays. Him coming in his rookie year he made a lot of plays, so it’s big ups to Ja’Marr.”

Q: Does the success in Week 1 give you confirmation that you are able to play at this level?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesSeptember 11, 2024HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, before I get started, just a quick shout out to this being 9/11 – the 23rd&nbsp;year (since it happened) - to the victims of 9/11 and the first responders, for sure. Our hats go off to those who sacrifice so we can do what we do here. The Bengals. We look forward to the challenge of playing the Bengals, they’re a heck of a football team. We know we’ve got to have a good week of preparation. As far as the injuries go, really, we – the only person – Hollywood (Brown) is the only one that’s banged up there so he’s continuing to rehab and get himself up, but he won’t be out there today. Other than that, the time’s yours.”Q: Does that indicate that Hollywood Brown won’t play Sunday?REID:&nbsp;“Not necessarily, yeah. I wouldn’t say that.”Q: The Bengals usually start off slow early in the year. Can you put your finger on the reason why?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, they’re a good football team. They’re very well coached – I mean, (Bengals Head Coach) Zac (Taylor) does a great job. They do a great job on the defensive side and special teams. Right now, they’re just trying to get their guys back together that aren’t able to play, but we know that they’re going to come in here and be ready to go. I don’t know what’s gone on in the past or (about) anything else but I know every time we play each other it’s a heck of a football game.”Q: You guys usually get a team’s best shot. What ways do you notice that materialize during a game?REID:&nbsp;“Well, execution is the biggest one. That’s normally what you get and good, aggressive play. I’d tell you guys that tempos are different when you take each level, and the playoffs is kind of a crazy deal. When teams like this play each other, it’s just a different tempo, for whatever reason. I don’t know why but that’s how it goes.”Q: You guys got the contract done with Noah Gray. What does he mean for both the present and the future?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Noah Gray) a good football player and he does a lot for us. He’s one of those guys that doesn’t get a whole lot of credit for all that he does but (he’s a) big time special teams player, great tight end. We do a bunch of double tight stuff plus he’s able to go in and spot (Travis) Kelce. He comes out of games with quite a few snaps because of the special teams. You know, he’s a four-phase guy there, can do anything (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave (Toub) needs him to do there and is willing and he loves being here so – and a great guy on top of all that.”Q: What stood out to you about Rashee Rice in the Ravens game?REID:&nbsp;“He (Rashee Rice) was more comfortable than he was last year, which makes sense, just having had the reps and experience. The one thing that he does well is he catches it and he gets himself up field. He’s a good, consistent catcher, works himself up field (and) is tough – plays physical. (At) the same time, he’s a willing blocker. (He’ll) get in there and mix it up there, so he’s really developing his whole game in all areas. He’ll keep rolling but it’s a way smaller margin than what he had to grow from the beginning here last year.”Q: Do you think that Samaje Perine is a little more comfortable this week?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, he (Samaje Perine) did a nice job for us. I don’t want to take anything away from him. He jumped in and had everything down and was able to play a few snaps for us. He’s going to be familiar with half of the guys that are on this team (the Bengals). He knows the routine there (and) a lot of the players.”Q: The Week 1 passing offense around the league was not up to the standard that it usually is. Why do you think that is?REID:&nbsp;“It takes time for that to develop, I think, that part of the game. A lot of variables will go into it just with the execution as opposed to handing the ball off to somebody. Between the timing and knowing your receivers and then all these secondaries that the defenses throw at you. It takes a little bit of time; the time’s been reduced in areas. Then – anyways, that’s what I see.”Q: With the kind of game that Xavier Worthy had last week this early in the season, what can that do for him moving forward?REID:&nbsp;“He (Xavier Worthy) did a nice job for us. Again, even with his size he was willing to get in the mix of the run game part of it. Having the success he had I think is a positive for a young guy to get going. Are you guaranteed two touchdowns every game? That’s not necessarily in the contract but it was great for him to get started that way. He knows that he can play at this level now and if he had any questions – I didn’t sense he had any questions – but if he did, those were answered.”Q: What do you need to see from Hollywood Brown in practice to feel comfortable with him playing in a game?REID:&nbsp;“They all set a little different, so I mean it’s something that has to move to get back into place. They all sit just a little different and heal – from what I understand, I’m not a physician by any means so they’re all just a bit different. I mean you’re talking just centimeters of it being off can be a problem. You want to make sure those things are healed and that they’re actually in the right spot. We’re having him (Hollywood Brown) see different people that are experts, I don’t think there’s a ton of data on it, especially in our field here – football. That’s kind of what’s going on but as far as working hard and he feels good, he feels like he’s in a pretty good spot. It’s not him, he would have been out there the last couple of weeks if he had a choice. Not the best – wouldn’t have been the best decision he made but you have to trust the doctors here.”Q: How did you get the news about 9/11 and what were your memories of that day?REID:&nbsp;“I was back there. I was back in Philly at that time, so it was a little crazy around that area. I remember talking to (Former NFL Coach) Mike Sherman who was at Green Bay, he called me and he was asking some questions about football, he hadn’t gotten the news out there. I said, ‘Hey you might want to turn the TV on, a little bit of craziness going on in this area here.’ That’s how I found out.”Q: Were you able to process it in real time?REID:&nbsp;“I’m not sure anybody could process it. I think everybody just reacted and it really seemed to be in a positive way. I mean from the stories that you hear on how people came to the rescue. That’s the good of mankind, we see some negative things and we have the tendency to harp on it but that right there, that was our country pulling together and working together and we can do some pretty magnificent things when that happens.”Chiefs Player QuotesSeptember 11, 2024QB PATRICK MAHOMESQ:&nbsp;When you’re on the field, in what ways do you notice the energy of these potential AFC contender type teams?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think you just see a raise in intensity just because you know that these games are going to matter at the end of the year. Obviously, it’s early in the season, everybody’s working through stuff, everybody’s trying to get better and better, but you know that this could be a tiebreaker or whatever you want to call it at the end of the year to determine seeding in (the) playoffs. It’s definitely a rise in intensity, especially in these games against other contenders.”Q:&nbsp;Do you feel the opposing defense talk a little bit more or have more of an edge in these types of games?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I wouldn’t say – usually not early in the season because everybody’s trying to figure stuff out with their teams and trying to do stuff and play fast. (When) you get to (the) playoffs, sometimes there’s a little bit more talking here and there, but early in the season, you play these guys a lot so even though there’s trash talk maybe in the offseason or whatever like that, you have respect for the other guy on the other side of the field. It’s going to be a great game and I’m excited that we get to play it at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.”Q:&nbsp;Is it weird to be playing the Bengals in Week 2 when you’re used to playing them late in the year?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“For sure. Usually, it’s like the NFL saves it for later in the season knowing it’s going to be kind of one of those seeding games. Our schedule’s very different this year. We have a lot of great teams early. Obviously, we play like every day of the week, so it’s a different schedule. It’s a great test for us to play two of the best teams in the league back-to-back to start off the season, but it’s going to be about how we adjust and respond whenever adversity hits.”Q:&nbsp;What allowed Rashee Rice to have the day that he did in the season opener?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think he’s just – he’s gotten better and better. I think throughout training camp, throughout (the) end of last year, he’s gotten to be a more versatile receiver where he can do a lot of different things. We can put him on some read routes, we put him on, obviously, a lot of slant routes (and) stuff like that where he can win one-on-one, and he did that. I think as the season goes on, you’re going to see the full arsenal of routes that he can run. I mean, some where he can run deep routes, he can run intermediate routes, he can run those medium routes. I mean, he can do it all. Just having all those other weapons around him as well, it takes off the focus on him that you kind of saw at some points last year. I think that’s just going to make our offense so great.”Q:&nbsp;What can the success that Xavier Worthy had in the season opener do for him going forward?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think it’s just going to be a spark. It shows what he (Xavier Worthy) can do. Obviously, it showed his speed. It showed how he’s able to run routes and find open spaces. It just kind of gives him that confidence. I think he already had it anyways, but to show that he can do it on Sundays or whatever day of the week that we’re playing. It’s just kind of a start for him. We want him to keep building. We want to get him more and more involved in the offense, but a great start.”Q:&nbsp;What do you feel like Noah Gray brings to the offense and the team as a whole?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“He’s (Noah Gray) just a smart player. (He’s an) extremely smart player that does a lot of physical stuff that we need in this offense. He’s able to get himself open. He makes the catches whenever he’s asked to do it but (he’s) a guy that can just do it all. You need those guys in order to win football games, and he’s one of those guys that he can come in for Travis (Kelce) in spots and I have full confidence that he can go out there and make plays happen as well. He’s learned a ton behind Trav (Travis Kelce), and you can see him getting better and better each and every year. I was happy for him because he’s one of those guys that does it the right way and deserves the contract that he got.”Q:&nbsp;What was your reaction when former President Donald J. Trump referenced you and your family again today in relation to his campaign?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I’ve always said, ‘I don’t want my place and my platform to be used to endorse a candidate or do whatever either way.’ I think my place is to inform people to get registered to vote. It’s to inform people to do their own research and then make their best decision for them and their family. I think that’s – every time I’m on this stage and I get asked these questions, I’m going to refer back to that because I think that’s what makes America so great.”Q:&nbsp; You were at the U.S Open with Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. Is that an important image to show that people who have different philosophies can get along?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean I think I’ve always – even dating back I think if you’ve seen my history I’ve grown up with people from every aspect of life and every background. I think the best thing about a football locker room and kind of how I’ve grown up in baseball locker rooms, everything about that is people can come together and achieve something and achieve a common goal. I think if we can, we talked about it awhile back – but I think if we can do that as a nation, I think that we can get the best out of each other. So, I think that is something I do every single day and whenever I am hanging with whoever I’m not thinking about their political views or anything like that, I’m thinking about the people and how they treat other people. I was with a lot of great people this weekend.”Q: Does it affect you that former President Donald J. Trump brought up your wife Brittany Mahomes’ name?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“No, I mean I think at the end of the day it’s about me and my family and how we treat other people. I think you see that Brittany (Mahomes) does a lot in the community (and) I do a lot in the community to help bring people up and give people other opportunities to use their voice. In the political times people are going to use stuff here and there, but I can’t let that affect how I go about my business every single day and live my life and try to live it to the best of my ability.”Q: What’s your reaction to Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola mimicking you?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I mean it’s cool, honestly. I was that guy. I grew up watching players. I remember being – when I (was growing) up, I loved (Former Yankee Shortstop) Alex Rodriguez (who) played shortstop. I would try to make plays just like him and do stuff like that and it helped me become the athlete that I am. It’s just telling me I’m getting a little old. That’s the biggest thing is that you have these guys that are coming up and doing some of the side arm stuff. I know (Nebraska Quarterback) Dylan (Raiola and) I train with him in the off season. (He is) a great kid (and) a great football player. I think he is going to make his own stamp on the game, and I think you have seen that early in his career.”Q: Has Dylan Raiola acknowledged publicly that he has been mimicking you?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I don’t know if whenever you come in as a freshman you want to be on Twitter and be the part of the team. I think he (Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola) wants it to be about his team. I think that is the right way to play the quarterback position is that it’s not about you, it’s about going out there and having success as a team. They’ve done that so far this year. So, even though – I think he just kind of wants to push this out and play football and go out there and win football games. I think that is the right way to play the position.”Q: Have you been in contact with Miami WR Tyreek Hill since his recent situation?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“No, I mean I haven’t had any contact with him (Dolphins Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill), but obviously an unfortunate situation. You’re glad that people are bringing light to it and there is an investigation being done to make sure everything was done the right way. Until that investigation is done, I won’t have any comment on it.”Q: What were your thoughts of Hip-Hop Artist Kendrick Lamar being announced as the next Super Bowl halftime performer. Any thoughts on whether it should have been Kendrick Lamar or Lil Wayne?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Two guys (who) I’ve always loved to listen to their music. I grew up on (hip-hop artist) Lil Wayne and obviously (hip-hop artist) Kendrick (Lamar) has been an icon for a long time. I don’t think you could’ve made a wrong decision. I think both of those guys are great. I’m hopefully in the game, I won’t get to hear either one of them or (whoever) it is. I’m excited for Kendrick to have that platform and show the artist that he is and show the world how hip-hop has really made a movement in our culture.”WR XAVIER WORTHYQ: What stands out to you on the film of yourself other than your two touchdowns?WORTHY:&nbsp;“I feel like a lot of things that I kind of focused on was understanding the defense. I feel like I did that. So, I just want to carry that over to this week and every other week, just understanding the defense (and) knowing what they’re going to do before every snap.”Q: What are your thoughts on Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase?WORTHY: “Man, (Bengals WR) Ja’Marr Chase is an excellent receiver. Just watching him at LSU with (Vikings WR) Justin Jefferson, they obviously made a lot of plays. Him coming in his rookie year he made a lot of plays, so it’s big ups to Ja’Marr.”Q: Does the success in Week 1 give you confirmation that you are able to play at this level?

Chiefs Quotes: 9-11-24

By SALINA POST The Salina Fire Department is pleased to announce the 3rd Annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk, “Steps of Hope,” at the Kansas Wesleyan University campus on Sunday, Sept. 29. The event will be held at JRI Stadium in the Graves Family&nbsp;Sports Complex. There will be two events leading up to the stair climb and a post-climb event, “Live from The&nbsp;Lot,” featuring great entertainment at Long McArthur Ford.

The Central Kansas 9/11 Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk allows civic leaders and citizens from Salina and across Kansas to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001.

For 2024, SFD has partnered with the Love Chloe Foundation, which will receive a portion of the proceeds from the stair climb. The NFFF and Love Chloe are 501(c)(3) organizations.

This event presents a unique opportunity for the entire community to unite in honoring the memory of the heroes of 9/11.

“It's a chance to show support for families facing childhood cancer diagnosis by providingimmediate financial and family support, raising awareness, and contributing to the funding of childhood cancer&nbsp;research,” a release from SFD reads. SFD is extremely fortunate and thankful this year to have the support of Long McArthur Ford, which is hosting “Live from The Lot,” in support of the NFFF for 2024.&nbsp; “Live from the Lot”will follow the stair climb/walk, and the gates open at 4:00 p.m. on September 29. Additionally, Great Life Salina has been a great community partner and will host&nbsp;the “Evening to Always Remember.”

The Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 5K Family Fun Walk are not about competition. They are about the entire community—including firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, and friends coming together to honor and remember those who served and sacrificed that day.&nbsp; Each local and regional&nbsp;participant will honor the fallen by carrying the name badge of one of the 343 firefighters. Pre-registered&nbsp;participants will also receive a complimentary 9/11 Stair Climb / Family Fun Walk t-shirt to commemorate&nbsp;their time at the event.

There are two preceding events before the 2024&nbsp;Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk.

The first is on Wednesday, September 11, with a “Tribute to Heroes Memorial&nbsp;Service” at Fire Station 1, 222 W. Elm Street, at 8:00 a.m. Later that evening, SFD will hold an “EVENING TO&nbsp;ALWAYS REMEMBER” from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Great Life Golf &amp; Fitness, 1800 S. Marymount Rd., Salina,&nbsp;KS 67401. The cost is $10.00 with a cash bar.&nbsp;Martinelli’s Little Italy will provide the food, and Tony Bowell&nbsp;will provide music for attendees listening pleasure.

For stair climb details, visit <a href="https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas24">https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas24</a>.

For “Live from The Lot” tickets, visit <a href="http://www.longmcarthur.com">www.longmcarthur.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704473450444.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POST The Salina Fire Department is pleased to announce the 3rd Annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk, “Steps of Hope,” at the Kansas Wesleyan University campus on Sunday, Sept. 29. The event will be held at JRI Stadium in the Graves Family&nbsp;Sports Complex. There will be two events leading up to the stair climb and a post-climb event, “Live from The&nbsp;Lot,” featuring great entertainment at Long McArthur Ford.The Central Kansas 9/11 Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk allows civic leaders and citizens from Salina and across Kansas to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001.For 2024, SFD has partnered with the Love Chloe Foundation, which will receive a portion of the proceeds from the stair climb. The NFFF and Love Chloe are 501(c)(3) organizations.This event presents a unique opportunity for the entire community to unite in honoring the memory of the heroes of 9/11.“It's a chance to show support for families facing childhood cancer diagnosis by providingimmediate financial and family support, raising awareness, and contributing to the funding of childhood cancer&nbsp;research,” a release from SFD reads. SFD is extremely fortunate and thankful this year to have the support of Long McArthur Ford, which is hosting “Live from The Lot,” in support of the NFFF for 2024.&nbsp; “Live from the Lot”will follow the stair climb/walk, and the gates open at 4:00 p.m. on September 29. Additionally, Great Life Salina has been a great community partner and will host&nbsp;the “Evening to Always Remember.”The Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 5K Family Fun Walk are not about competition. They are about the entire community—including firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, and friends coming together to honor and remember those who served and sacrificed that day.&nbsp; Each local and regional&nbsp;participant will honor the fallen by carrying the name badge of one of the 343 firefighters. Pre-registered&nbsp;participants will also receive a complimentary 9/11 Stair Climb / Family Fun Walk t-shirt to commemorate&nbsp;their time at the event.There are two preceding events before the 2024&nbsp;Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and 5K Family Fun Walk.The first is on Wednesday, September 11, with a “Tribute to Heroes Memorial&nbsp;Service” at Fire Station 1, 222 W. Elm Street, at 8:00 a.m. Later that evening, SFD will hold an “EVENING TO&nbsp;ALWAYS REMEMBER” from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Great Life Golf &amp; Fitness, 1800 S. Marymount Rd., Salina,&nbsp;KS 67401. The cost is $10.00 with a cash bar.&nbsp;Martinelli’s Little Italy will provide the food, and Tony Bowell&nbsp;will provide music for attendees listening pleasure.For stair climb details, visit <a href="https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas24">https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas24</a>.For “Live from The Lot” tickets, visit <a href="http://www.longmcarthur.com">www.longmcarthur.com</a>.

SFD Third Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Family Fun Walk

Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced today that 40 local and off-system bridge projects across the state will receive a combined total of $40.25 million as part of two local bridge improvement programs capitalizing on new revenue from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

“Kansas’ local bridges are critical to connecting communities and to economic opportunities,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “These projects increase infrastructure stability and safety across the state by enabling needed bridge maintenance, repair, and replacement.”

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $45.2 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs to take advantage of BIL, the Kansas Department of Transportation more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas. And nearly 5,000 of those bridges need updates for today’s standards.

“Local bridges play an important role in moving people and goods through our state,”&nbsp;Secretary Reed said.&nbsp;“With IKE, we have been able to increase the investment in local bridges and provide opportunities to improve these vital connections for our communities.”&nbsp;

KDOT is awarding $20.45 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2026 to fund 21 projects across the state. About $19.8 million will be awarded by KDOT through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2025. The funds will go to 19 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four bridges will be permanently removed from local systems.

The OSB and KLBIP are targeted for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 170 applications requesting $162.3 million.

The list of recipients and project locations for KLBIP and OSB are below. A link to a map showing the projects can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2FAssets%2Fwwwksdotorg%2FHeadquarters%2FPDF_Files%2Fpressrelease2024%2FKLBIP_26OSB_Combined_Map.pdf/1/01010191e1ed1462-802b5db6-7aff-4bb8-bbfd-71741dcdd0a8-000000/xlRt9iKDgHawh_-37w6Ly1CaYLtakGSV7ORIPdRAR9E=370">here</a>.

Nickel Road, 2.0 miles east of Belleville

M Road, 2.0 miles south and 3.0 miles west of Smith Center

Maximum Funds Awarded:&nbsp;$1,000,000

1900 Avenue, 2.0 miles south and 1.6 miles east of Abilene

Broughton Road over Finney Creek south of 17th Road

Total Funds Awarded:&nbsp;$1,100,000

Arapaho Road, 3.0 miles south and 0.5 miles west of Inman

Avenue J, 0.5 miles east and 1.3 miles south of Black Wolf

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726073118052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGovernor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed announced today that 40 local and off-system bridge projects across the state will receive a combined total of $40.25 million as part of two local bridge improvement programs capitalizing on new revenue from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).“Kansas’ local bridges are critical to connecting communities and to economic opportunities,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “These projects increase infrastructure stability and safety across the state by enabling needed bridge maintenance, repair, and replacement.”Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $45.2 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs to take advantage of BIL, the Kansas Department of Transportation more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas. And nearly 5,000 of those bridges need updates for today’s standards.“Local bridges play an important role in moving people and goods through our state,”&nbsp;Secretary Reed said.&nbsp;“With IKE, we have been able to increase the investment in local bridges and provide opportunities to improve these vital connections for our communities.”&nbsp;KDOT is awarding $20.45 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2026 to fund 21 projects across the state. About $19.8 million will be awarded by KDOT through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2025. The funds will go to 19 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four bridges will be permanently removed from local systems.The OSB and KLBIP are targeted for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 170 applications requesting $162.3 million.The list of recipients and project locations for KLBIP and OSB are below. A link to a map showing the projects can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2FAssets%2Fwwwksdotorg%2FHeadquarters%2FPDF_Files%2Fpressrelease2024%2FKLBIP_26OSB_Combined_Map.pdf/1/01010191e1ed1462-802b5db6-7aff-4bb8-bbfd-71741dcdd0a8-000000/xlRt9iKDgHawh_-37w6Ly1CaYLtakGSV7ORIPdRAR9E=370">here</a>.<h2>Projects in our listening area:</h2><h2>Republic County</h2>Nickel Road, 2.0 miles east of BellevilleLocal Contribution: $62,791Local Cost Percentage: 8.1%Maximum Funds Awarded: $800,000<h2>Smith County</h2>M Road, 2.0 miles south and 3.0 miles west of Smith CenterLocal Contribution:&nbsp;$54,601Local Cost Percentage:&nbsp;6.0%Maximum Funds Awarded:&nbsp;$1,000,000<h2>Dickinson County</h2>1900 Avenue, 2.0 miles south and 1.6 miles east of AbileneLocal Contribution:&nbsp;$186,922Local Percentage Match:&nbsp;10%KDOT Match Funds: $1,230,000Funds for Bridge Removal:$170,000Total Funds Awarded: $1,400,000<h2>Clay County</h2>Broughton Road over Finney Creek south of 17th RoadLocal Contribution:&nbsp;$188,374Local Percentage Match:&nbsp;10%KDOT Match Funds:&nbsp;$1,100,000Funds for Bridge Removal:Total Funds Awarded:&nbsp;$1,100,000<h2>McPherson County</h2>Arapaho Road, 3.0 miles south and 0.5 miles west of InmanLocal Contribution: $209,953Local Percentage Match: 15%KDOT Match Funds: $950,000Total Funds Awarded: $950,000<h2>Ellsworth County</h2>Avenue J, 0.5 miles east and 1.3 miles south of Black WolfLocal Contribution: $136,776Local Percentage Match: 5%KDOT Match Funds: $1,250,000Total Funds Awarded: $1,250,000

Gov. Kelly announces 40 bridge projects receive more than $40M

LONDON (AP) — The United States and Britain formally accused Iran on Tuesday of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-iran-ukraine-ballistic-missiles-us-intelligence-1e637abe11396989c641fa5bf3f57b24">supplying short-range ballistic missiles</a>&nbsp;to Russia to use against Ukraine, announcing new sanctions on Moscow and Tehran before a joint visit to Kyiv by their top diplomats.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking alongside British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during a visit to London, said Iran had ignored warnings that the transfer of such weapons would be a profound escalation of the conflict.

He told reporters that dozens of Russian military personnel had been trained in Iran to use the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a maximum range of 75 miles (120 kilometers).

“Russia has now received shipments of these ballistic missiles and will likely use them within weeks in Ukraine, against Ukrainians,” Blinken said. “The supply of Iranian missiles enables Russia to use more of its arsenal for targets that are further from the front line.”

At the Pentagon, the press secretary said these were unlikely to be the only shipments. “One has to assume that if Iran is providing Russia with these types of missiles, that it’s very likely it would not be a one-time deal, that this would be a source of capability that Russia would seek to tap in the future,” said Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.

The West's allegations about the missile transfers come as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-putin-kursk-incursion-ca6d18d06606794580bdc779d2c98134">Kremlin is trying to repel Ukraine’s surprise offensive</a>, which has claimed hundreds of square miles of territory in Russia’s Kursk region. The accusations could embolden Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to further&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-kursk-putin-missiles-7e59c745b4bff79802454f0b660b0d0d">ramp up pressure on the U.S.</a>&nbsp;and other allies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-military-aid-zelenskyy-cf8addbd055e518a7a10a73d3d4353cd">allow Ukraine to use Western-supplied missiles</a>&nbsp;to strike deep inside Russia and hit sites from which Moscow launches aerial attacks.

Iran's foreign ministry denies providing ballistic missiles to Russia, the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported.

“Publishing wrong and misleading reports about transferring Iranian weapons to some countries is merely an ugly propaganda and lie aimed at hiding illegal massive size weaponry support by the U.S. and some Western nations for genocide in the Gaza Strip," it quoted ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani as saying.

The U.S., U.K. and other Western allies are pressing for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-ceasefire-egypt-qatar-biden-aafbe442e8dd976218588d2f164b38a1">a cease-fire</a>&nbsp;to end the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">devastating war between Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;in Gaza and avoid attacks from Iranian proxies in the region escalating into a broader war.

Britain, France and Germany announced new sanctions Tuesday against Iran and Russia, calling the missile transfers “a direct threat to European security.” The penalties include the cancellation of air services agreements with Iran, which will restrict Iran Air’s ability to fly to the U.K. and Europe.

Britain also said it and the United States were sanctioning those involved in sending Iranian drones and missiles to Russia. The sanctions include travel bans and asset freezes on two senior officers in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a senior defense ministry official, as well as several businesses and five Russian cargo ships alleged to have transported supplies from Iran to Russia. Three Russian military units involved with aviation and aerospace also were sanctioned.

The U.S. Treasury and the State Department in the past few years have imposed economic sanctions on people and companies based in Iran, China, Russia, Turkey and other nations who officials allege are connected with the development of Iran’s drone program.

The sanctions on Iranian drone production tied to Russia’s invasion, dating to November 2022, were issued despite Iranian leaders’ denials that the country had sent them.

Sanctions, among other things, bar people and businesses from accessing property or financial assets held in the U.S. and prevent U.S. companies and citizens from doing business with them.

The announcement precedes a Blinken and Lammy visit Wednesday to Kyiv, where they will meet Zelenskyy and other officials to discuss bolstering the country's defenses. The rare joint visit was unusually announced in advance — a public signal of U.S-.U.K. support for Ukraine ahead of what’s likely to be a brutal winter of Russian attacks.

Asked whether the U.S. would allow weapons it supplied to be used to strike targets deeper inside Russia, Blinken said all use of weapons needed to be allied to a strategy.

He said one goal of the visit this week “is to hear directly from the Ukrainian leadership, including … President Zelenskyy, about exactly how the Ukrainians see their needs in this moment, toward what objectives, and what we can do to support those needs.”

President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to fire U.S.-provided missiles across the border into Russia in self-defense but largely limited the distance over concerns about further escalating the conflict. Blinken met Tuesday with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-keir-starmer-britain-white-house-ee4b84bc5c1209827f14f4d91cc4f527">British Prime Minister Keir Starmer</a>, who will sit down with Biden at the White House on Friday.

“We will be listening intently to our Ukrainian partners, we will both be reporting back to the prime minister, to President Biden in the coming days, and I fully anticipate this is something they will take up when they meet on Friday,” Blinken said.

In the meantime, Ukraine is using its own weapons to hit targets deeper in Russia, launching on Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f6dfcae1dcb2b0d9c8c2da1ddbdc32ef">one of the biggest drone attacks</a>&nbsp;on Russian soil in the 2 1/2-year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war</a>&nbsp;to target multiple regions including Moscow.

Word of the alleged transfers from Iran began to emerge over the weekend. Lammy called them part of “a troubling pattern that we’re seeing. It is definitely a significant escalation.”

The U.S. and its allies have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russian-iran-ballistic-missiles-ukraine-f12dc454b04f7cbe671d2c401e31390c">warning Iran for months</a>&nbsp;not to transfer ballistic missiles to Russia.

CIA Director William Burns, who was in London on Saturday for a joint appearance with his British intelligence counterpart, warned of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cia-mi6-gaza-ceasefire-mideast-russia-2b81c6143f2a04ceebb2a98b2cdba7cd">growing and “troubling” defense relationship</a>&nbsp;involving Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, which he said threatens both Ukraine and Western allies in the Middle East.

The White House has repeatedly declassified and publicized intelligence findings that show North Korea has sent ammunition and missiles to Russia to use against Ukraine, while Iran also supplies Moscow with attack drones and has assisted the Kremlin with building a drone-manufacturing factory.

China has held back from providing Russians with weaponry but has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-china-russia-ukraine-war-265df843be030b7183c95b6f3afca8ec">surged sales to Russia</a>&nbsp;of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow in turn is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry, according to U.S. officials.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663760963726.jpeg" alt="File photo Russian President Vladimir Putin (Russian Presidential Press Service via AP)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Russian President Vladimir Putin (Russian Presidential Press Service via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — The United States and Britain formally accused Iran on Tuesday of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-iran-ukraine-ballistic-missiles-us-intelligence-1e637abe11396989c641fa5bf3f57b24">supplying short-range ballistic missiles</a>&nbsp;to Russia to use against Ukraine, announcing new sanctions on Moscow and Tehran before a joint visit to Kyiv by their top diplomats.U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking alongside British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during a visit to London, said Iran had ignored warnings that the transfer of such weapons would be a profound escalation of the conflict.He told reporters that dozens of Russian military personnel had been trained in Iran to use the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a maximum range of 75 miles (120 kilometers).“Russia has now received shipments of these ballistic missiles and will likely use them within weeks in Ukraine, against Ukrainians,” Blinken said. “The supply of Iranian missiles enables Russia to use more of its arsenal for targets that are further from the front line.”At the Pentagon, the press secretary said these were unlikely to be the only shipments. “One has to assume that if Iran is providing Russia with these types of missiles, that it’s very likely it would not be a one-time deal, that this would be a source of capability that Russia would seek to tap in the future,” said Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.The West's allegations about the missile transfers come as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-putin-kursk-incursion-ca6d18d06606794580bdc779d2c98134">Kremlin is trying to repel Ukraine’s surprise offensive</a>, which has claimed hundreds of square miles of territory in Russia’s Kursk region. The accusations could embolden Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to further&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-kursk-putin-missiles-7e59c745b4bff79802454f0b660b0d0d">ramp up pressure on the U.S.</a>&nbsp;and other allies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-military-aid-zelenskyy-cf8addbd055e518a7a10a73d3d4353cd">allow Ukraine to use Western-supplied missiles</a>&nbsp;to strike deep inside Russia and hit sites from which Moscow launches aerial attacks.Iran's foreign ministry denies providing ballistic missiles to Russia, the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported.“Publishing wrong and misleading reports about transferring Iranian weapons to some countries is merely an ugly propaganda and lie aimed at hiding illegal massive size weaponry support by the U.S. and some Western nations for genocide in the Gaza Strip," it quoted ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani as saying.The U.S., U.K. and other Western allies are pressing for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-ceasefire-egypt-qatar-biden-aafbe442e8dd976218588d2f164b38a1">a cease-fire</a>&nbsp;to end the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">devastating war between Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;in Gaza and avoid attacks from Iranian proxies in the region escalating into a broader war.Britain, France and Germany announced new sanctions Tuesday against Iran and Russia, calling the missile transfers “a direct threat to European security.” The penalties include the cancellation of air services agreements with Iran, which will restrict Iran Air’s ability to fly to the U.K. and Europe.Britain also said it and the United States were sanctioning those involved in sending Iranian drones and missiles to Russia. The sanctions include travel bans and asset freezes on two senior officers in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a senior defense ministry official, as well as several businesses and five Russian cargo ships alleged to have transported supplies from Iran to Russia. Three Russian military units involved with aviation and aerospace also were sanctioned.The U.S. Treasury and the State Department in the past few years have imposed economic sanctions on people and companies based in Iran, China, Russia, Turkey and other nations who officials allege are connected with the development of Iran’s drone program.The sanctions on Iranian drone production tied to Russia’s invasion, dating to November 2022, were issued despite Iranian leaders’ denials that the country had sent them.Sanctions, among other things, bar people and businesses from accessing property or financial assets held in the U.S. and prevent U.S. companies and citizens from doing business with them.The announcement precedes a Blinken and Lammy visit Wednesday to Kyiv, where they will meet Zelenskyy and other officials to discuss bolstering the country's defenses. The rare joint visit was unusually announced in advance — a public signal of U.S-.U.K. support for Ukraine ahead of what’s likely to be a brutal winter of Russian attacks.Asked whether the U.S. would allow weapons it supplied to be used to strike targets deeper inside Russia, Blinken said all use of weapons needed to be allied to a strategy.He said one goal of the visit this week “is to hear directly from the Ukrainian leadership, including … President Zelenskyy, about exactly how the Ukrainians see their needs in this moment, toward what objectives, and what we can do to support those needs.”President Joe Biden has allowed Ukraine to fire U.S.-provided missiles across the border into Russia in self-defense but largely limited the distance over concerns about further escalating the conflict. Blinken met Tuesday with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-keir-starmer-britain-white-house-ee4b84bc5c1209827f14f4d91cc4f527">British Prime Minister Keir Starmer</a>, who will sit down with Biden at the White House on Friday.“We will be listening intently to our Ukrainian partners, we will both be reporting back to the prime minister, to President Biden in the coming days, and I fully anticipate this is something they will take up when they meet on Friday,” Blinken said.In the meantime, Ukraine is using its own weapons to hit targets deeper in Russia, launching on Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f6dfcae1dcb2b0d9c8c2da1ddbdc32ef">one of the biggest drone attacks</a>&nbsp;on Russian soil in the 2 1/2-year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war</a>&nbsp;to target multiple regions including Moscow.Word of the alleged transfers from Iran began to emerge over the weekend. Lammy called them part of “a troubling pattern that we’re seeing. It is definitely a significant escalation.”The U.S. and its allies have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russian-iran-ballistic-missiles-ukraine-f12dc454b04f7cbe671d2c401e31390c">warning Iran for months</a>&nbsp;not to transfer ballistic missiles to Russia.CIA Director William Burns, who was in London on Saturday for a joint appearance with his British intelligence counterpart, warned of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cia-mi6-gaza-ceasefire-mideast-russia-2b81c6143f2a04ceebb2a98b2cdba7cd">growing and “troubling” defense relationship</a>&nbsp;involving Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, which he said threatens both Ukraine and Western allies in the Middle East.The White House has repeatedly declassified and publicized intelligence findings that show North Korea has sent ammunition and missiles to Russia to use against Ukraine, while Iran also supplies Moscow with attack drones and has assisted the Kremlin with building a drone-manufacturing factory.China has held back from providing Russians with weaponry but has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-china-russia-ukraine-war-265df843be030b7183c95b6f3afca8ec">surged sales to Russia</a>&nbsp;of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow in turn is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry, according to U.S. officials.

US formally accuses Iran of supplying Russia with missiles

Game 3 #20/18&nbsp;Arizona at #14/15&nbsp;K-State Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 Kickoff: 7 p.m. Location: Manhattan, Kan. Stadium: Bill Snyder Family Stadium (50,000) Series: Arizona Leads, 5-1-1 TV: FOX (<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/arizona-wildcats-vs-kansas-state-wildcats-sep-13-2024-game-boxscore-39748" target="_blank">watch</a>) Tim Brando (Play-by-Play) Devin Gardner (Analyst) Josh Sims (Sidelines) Radio: K-State Sports Network;&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/watch" target="_blank">Listen</a>) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wyatt Thompson (Play-by-Play)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Stan Weber (Analyst) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Matt Walters (Sidelines) SiriusXM Satellite Radio Ch. 84, and on the SiriusXM App <a href="https://tunein.com/radio/Big-12-Radio-s329464/" target="_blank">Big 12 Radio on TuneIn</a> X Updates: @KStateFB

THE TOP 51)&nbsp;Following a 34-27 comeback win at Tulane, No. 14 K-State returns home on a short week as it hosts No. 20 Arizona on the new FOX College Football Friday broadcast with Tim Brando (play-by-play), Devin Gardner (analyst) and Josh Sims (sideline) on the call. The matchup between two nationally-ranked Wildcat teams will be a non-conference game as part of a series that was announced in 2016.

2)&nbsp;Quarterback Avery Johnson became the fifth sophomore signal caller – and just the second true sophomore – to start a season opener since 1990 when he did so against UT Martin. In two games this season, Johnson has completed 66-percent of his passes on 29-of-44 aim, totaling 334 yards and four touchdowns. He also has rushed for 77 yards on 11 carries.

3)&nbsp;Alongside Johnson in the backfield is running back DJ Giddens, who has rushed for 238 yards on 32 carries to go along with a team-leading seven receptions for 69 yards and a touchdown. Giddens enters the Arizona contest with a six-game streak of at least 100 rushing yards, which is tied for the third-longest streak in school history. He is one of just three Big 12 backs with two 100-yard games this year.

4)&nbsp;The experience of the Wildcats resides on defense as the unit brings back eight starters, including five of its top six tacklers from a year ago. Leading the charge last year and back in 2024 are linebacker Austin Moore and safety Marques Sigle with 63 tackles apiece. Both players, along with defensive ends Brendan Mott and Cody Stufflebean were voted as team captains for the 2024 season.

5)&nbsp;Kicker Chris Tennant is back for his senior campaign and enters this week’s contest in the top 10 in school history in five career categories. The Wildcats’ new punter, Simon McClannan, was impressive in week one by averaging 41.0 yards on three punts with two landing inside the UTM 10-yard line. Additionally, a plethora of options are available at both kickoff and punt return.

STATISTICAL SPOTLIGHTS66&nbsp;– Turnovers produced by K-State since 2021, the second-most among active Big 12 teams and tied for 10th among Power 4 teams.

22&nbsp;– Number of tackles for loss the Wildcats have recorded through two games, which ranks fourth nationally.

10&nbsp;– Friday’s matchup will mark the Wildcats’ first home top-20 matchup in 10 years, the last being the 2014 Auburn game.

6&nbsp;– Number of consecutive 100-yard games by running back DJ Giddens, which is tied for the third most in school history.

5.76&nbsp;– Career per rush average by DJ Giddens, ranking second in school history behind Darren Sproles (6.11).

• Since 1990, K-State holds a 99-20 (83.2%) record in regular-season non-conference games.

• That stretch includes an 83-9 (90.2%) mark at home. Over that period of time, the Wildcats have had perfect regular season non-conference ledgers 17 times and unblemished marks at home on 25 occasions.

• K-State is 3-1 in the regular season against non-conference Power 4 opponents under Chris Klieman. The Wildcats won at Mississippi State in 2019 before defeating Stanford in the 2021 season opener and Missouri at home in 2022. The lone loss was a last-second field goal by Missouri in Columbia last season.

• Dating back to his days at North Dakota State, Klieman is 6-1 in the regular season against non-conference Power 5 opponents, as his Bison defeated Iowa State in 2014 and Iowa in 2016.

• Kansas State has totaled 139 Big 12 victories since the conference’s formation in 1996, which stands as the most among active Big 12 programs.

• The Wildcats are also second among active Big 12 members in winning percentage since non-divisional play began in 2011. They sit at 59.8% (70-47), trailing only Oklahoma State (65.8%; 77-40).

• During that stretch, the Wildcats are 39-20 (66.1%) at home in Big 12 play and 31-27 (53.4%) on the road.

• K-State has a total of 224 victories since 1996, which ranks 21st nationally.

• Among active Big 12 teams, the Wildcats rank fourth behind TCU (231), BYU (230) and Utah (230), each of which have joined the Big 12 within the last 12 years.

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

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

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

• K-State has 29 wins since 2021, which ranks third among active Big 12 teams behind Oklahoma State (31) and Utah (30).

• Kansas State has a strong history of being in the postseason, having advanced to a bowl game 24 times since 1993, including 12 times in the last 14 years.

• K-State’s 24 bowl trips since 1993 are tied for second among active Big 12 teams with BYU and just behind West Virginia (25).

• In an era when over 80 teams play in a bowl game each year, the Cats are one of just 16 Power 4 teams to play in a bowl game at least 12 times in the last 14 years.

• For the second-straight season, Kansas State entered a season ranked in both the Associated Press Top 25 and the AFCA Coaches Poll as they checked in at No. 18 and No. 17.

• It marked the first time the Wildcats were ranked in the Preseason AP Top 25 in consecutive years since 2003 and 2004.

• Last season, K-State entered the year No. 16 in the AP Top 25 and No. 17 in the Coaches Poll.

• K-State has been ranked in the AP Top 25 on 234 occasions since 1993, the most among active Big 12 teams and ranked 22nd nationally.

• Kansas State was ranked No. 25 in the final College Football Playoff Top 25 of 2023, marking the 12th-straight time the Cats were ranked in the CFP Top 25. That figure enters the 2024 season tied for the sixth-longest active streak.

• K-State was more busy than usual scouting the opponents on its schedule during the spring and summer months as the Wildcats are only playing four foes from last year’s schedule – Houston, Iowa State, Kansas and Oklahoma State – in 2024.

• It is the Wildcats’ fewest amount of carryover opponents from one year to the next since only three rematches from the 1918 season to the 1919 season (Baker, Kansas and Iowa State).

• 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 113-37 career record, as his 75.3% career winning percentage ranks fourth among current FBS coaches that have led programs for at least 10 seasons. He is also one of just 16 current Power 4 head coaches with at least 100 victories.

• Klieman, who is 41-24 (63.1%) since arriving at K-State, has led the Cats to five victories over teams ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press Top 25, which is the most of any active Big 12 program since 2019. Next on the list is Utah with four, followed by Baylor, Oklahoma State and TCU with three apiece.

• Kansas State ended the 2023 season 10th nationally in scoring offense (37.1 points per game) and 26th in scoring defense (21.0 points allowed per game). The Wildcats were one of just 11 Power 5 teams to rank in the top 30 in both categories, joining Alabama, Arizona, Florida State, Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Notre Dame, Oregon, Penn State and Texas.

• 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.

• It was the first time K-State finished in the top 10 in consecutive seasons since 2011 (9th) and 2012 (3rd).

• Over the final seven weeks of the regular season and bowl season, K-State forced a nation-leading 19 turnovers (11 interceptions, eight fumbles) while only committing five (three interceptions, two fumbles).

• Additionally, the Wildcats only lost two fumbles in 2023, a new school record and the third fewest in the nation.

• K-State is the nation’s best in non-offensive touchdowns over the last 25-plus seasons as it has 133 since 1999, seven more than the next closest team (Alabama – 125).

• K-State has recorded two this season with a Ty Bowman blocked punt against UT Martin that was returned one yard for a score by Colby McCalister in addition to a Jack Fabris 60-yard fumble return at Tulane.

• It marked the first time since the first two games of 2022 against South Dakota and Missouri that the Wildcats had non-offensive touchdowns in consecutive games.

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

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

• K-State’s six captains, as voted by their teammates, to serve as captains in 2024 are quarterback Avery Johnson, offensive lineman Hadley Panzer, linebacker Austin Moore, defensive ends Brendan Mott and Cody Stufflebean, and safety Marques Sigle.

• Of the six captains, five are seniors and four hail from the state of Kansas. Both of those lists include Moore, a former walk-on who is a captain for a second-straight season.

• Johnson is just the 10th sophomore captain in program history, joining Brooks Barta (1990), Mark Simoneau (1997), Terry Pierce (2001), Josh Freeman (2007), Alex Hrebec (2009), Collin Klein (2010), B.J. Finney (2012), Dalton Risner (2016) and Wyatt Hubert (2019).

• With the entire six-game 2024 home slate trending toward being sold out, K-State enters this week’s game against Arizona with 15-consecutive sellouts dating back to the beginning of 2022.

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

OFFENSIVE NOTESNEW OFFENSIVE STRUCTURE

• K-State’s offense has new faces at the front of room as Conor Riley, the offensive line coach the last five seasons, will call plays for the first time in his career, while K-State hired former Utah State and Texas Tech head coach Matt Wells to serve as co-offensive coordinator, quarterbacks coach and associate head coach.

• Riley was the interim offensive coordinator in K-State’s 28-19 victory over NC State in the 2023 Pop-Tarts Bowl, a game in which the Wildcats amassed 257 rushing yards and 435 total yards on a Wolfpack defense that entered bowl season ranking No. 16 and No. 25 in those categories, respectively.

• Wells, who boasts nine years of head coaching experience, came to Manhattan after spending the last two years at Oklahoma as an advisor to head coach/offensive analyst. In addition to coaching quarterbacks during his 27-year coaching career, Wells has also spent time tutoring wide receivers and tight ends.

TOTAL OFFENSE• K-State has totaled at least 375 yards of offense in 24 of the last 29 games dating back to the beginning of the 2022 season. During that stretch, the Cats held a 10-game streak against Big 12 foes with 375 or more yards, the longest in school history.

• K-State ranked 23rd nationally last year by averaging 445.2 yards per game. That figure ranked second in school history, while K-State’s 6.04 yards per play ranked 10th.SCORING SURGE• K-State finished last year ranked 10th nationally by scoring 37.1 points per game, a mark ranked sixth in school history.

• It was the first time the Wildcats finished in the top 10 in the country in scoring offense since 2003 (9th), while it was their highest average since 2012 (38.8).THIRD DOWN SUCCESS• Kansas State was one of the best teams in the nation last year in terms of converting on third down, as the Wildcats ranked 11th nationally with a 47.9% (90-of-188) success rate.

• K-State’s 90 total third-down conversions last year ranked fifth in the country and was tops in the Big 12.RED ZONE SUCCESS• Just like on third downs, K-State was one of the nation’s leaders in turning red-zone trips into touchdowns during the 2023 season, as the Cats ranked second nationally by finding paydirt on 78.46% percent of their red-zone possessions (51-of-65).

• K-State just narrowly finished behind Oregon State by 0.11% and would have led the nation had the Cats not been in the red zone when taking a knee to close out the Pop-Tarts Bowl win.

• The 2024 season opened with a continuation of red-zone success under Chris Klieman, as the Wildcats rank first among active Big 12 programs by scoring on 90.7% (233-of-257) of their overall red-zone trips since 2019 with 174 touchdowns.NOT LACKING IN EXPERIENCE• Although the offensive line lost four starters from a year, the starting unit is not lacking in experience as the current group has totaled 83 career starts and 5,776 career snaps.

• The leaders in those departments are North Dakota transfer tackle Easton Kilty (39 starts, 2,452 snaps), guard Hadley Panzer (28 starts, 1,844 snaps), tackle Carver Willis (nine starts, 700 snaps) and guard Taylor Poitier (five starts, 613 snaps).YOUNG BUT EXPLOSIVE• Avery Johnson, the top dual-threat quarterback in the Class of 2023, is beginning his first full season as K-State’s starting quarterback a year after becoming just the first true freshman signal caller in school history to start and win a bowl game. Johnson led the Wildcats to a 28-19 victory over NC State in the Pop-Tarts Bowl en route to MVP honors.

• A member of the watch list for the Maxwell Award, Johnson was just the fifth sophomore since 1990 to start a season opener under center, joining Ell Roberson (2001), Dylan Meier (2004), Josh Freeman (2007) and Jesse Ertz (2015).

• Johnson was the second-youngest quarterback to start a season opener since 1990 at 19 years, 9 months and 29 days (Freeman: 19 years, 6 months and 19 days). Both Johnson and Freeman started the openers of their true sophomore season, while the other three were redshirt sophomores.GIDDENS GETTING IT DONE• Running back DJ Giddens is back for his junior season after rushing for 1,226 yards and 10 touchdowns last year in addition to hauling 29 receptions for 323 yards and three more scores.

• His 1,226 yards a year ago ranked 10th in school history.

• Giddens finished the 2023 season ranked 11th in the nation with 51 touches that went for at least 10 yards.

• He has opened the 2024 season with 246 yards on 32 carries as his 7.44-yard average ranks 20th in the country, while his three rushes of 30 or more yards are tied for third nationally.

GROUND AND POUND• DJ Giddens produced the 19th 1,000-yard rushing season in school history last year and did so on 223 carries to rank eighth in school history in yards per rush (5.50).

• It was the third-straight season K-State had a 1,000-yard rusher, the first time doing so since 2009-11 and the first time by running backs since 2001-04.