Fort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, runnin back Shane Watts and linebacker Makel Williams spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers host Missouri Western State University on Saturday.

Hays PostFort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, runnin back Shane Watts and linebacker Makel Williams spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers host Missouri Western State University on Saturday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bxnMqOhUvl4?si=kbv9220V9v14yxPL" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6Fr7v7GQZI0?si=JVRoR5M4kY8wHx3t" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/prFbGfMPx8M?si=mXW80nJTl9H4bG-E" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏈📹 FHSU weekly press conference 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State senior defensive back Benyon Williams&nbsp;was named MIAA Co-Defensive Athlete of the Week on Tuesday for his efforts in the season-opening 21-7 win over Angelo State. Williams shared the honor this week with Thomas Cook of Pittsburg State. Both FHSU and PSU picked up wins over nationally ranked teams last week.

Williams, a native of Tampa, Fla., finished with 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in the 21-7 win over No. 24 ranked Angelo State. He matched his career high for tackles in a game, which he also accomplished against Averett in 2021 at his former school of North Carolina Wesleyan. Williams had a team-high seven solo tackles, including one on special teams. Five of his 11 tackles were on plays resulting in one yard or less gained by the Rams. Four of his stops were on third downs, with three forcing the Rams to punt and the fourth coming just before a turnover on downs late in the game. Williams helped the Tiger defense limit Angelo State to just 203 total yards.

Cook enjoyed a career day in helping No. 6 ranked Pitt State to a 19-3 season-opening win over No. 3 ranked Ferris State. The senior from Overland Park, Kan., made five tackles, including a quarterback sack. He also forced a fumble and recovered another as the Gorillas created four takeaways in the contest while limiting the Bulldogs to 38 net rushing yards and 171 total yards. Cook's forced fumble came with 7:18 to play in the third quarter and the Gorillas leading 9-3. Pitt State cashed in with the game's only touchdown five plays later to expand the margin to 16-3.Williams and Cook joined Gunnar Gundy of Emporia State (Offensive Athlete of the Week) and Austin Schmitt (Special Teams Athlete of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the MIAA office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725397021746.png" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State senior defensive back Benyon Williams&nbsp;was named MIAA Co-Defensive Athlete of the Week on Tuesday for his efforts in the season-opening 21-7 win over Angelo State. Williams shared the honor this week with Thomas Cook of Pittsburg State. Both FHSU and PSU picked up wins over nationally ranked teams last week.Williams, a native of Tampa, Fla., finished with 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in the 21-7 win over No. 24 ranked Angelo State. He matched his career high for tackles in a game, which he also accomplished against Averett in 2021 at his former school of North Carolina Wesleyan. Williams had a team-high seven solo tackles, including one on special teams. Five of his 11 tackles were on plays resulting in one yard or less gained by the Rams. Four of his stops were on third downs, with three forcing the Rams to punt and the fourth coming just before a turnover on downs late in the game. Williams helped the Tiger defense limit Angelo State to just 203 total yards.Cook enjoyed a career day in helping No. 6 ranked Pitt State to a 19-3 season-opening win over No. 3 ranked Ferris State. The senior from Overland Park, Kan., made five tackles, including a quarterback sack. He also forced a fumble and recovered another as the Gorillas created four takeaways in the contest while limiting the Bulldogs to 38 net rushing yards and 171 total yards. Cook's forced fumble came with 7:18 to play in the third quarter and the Gorillas leading 9-3. Pitt State cashed in with the game's only touchdown five plays later to expand the margin to 16-3.Williams and Cook joined Gunnar Gundy of Emporia State (Offensive Athlete of the Week) and Austin Schmitt (Special Teams Athlete of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the MIAA office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 FHSU's Benyon Williams MIAA Defensive Player of the Week

Fort Hays State moved into the D2Football.com Top 25 rankings on Monday after its season-opening 21-7 win over Angelo State last week. It's Fort Hays State's first appearance in the D2Football.com Top 25 since the 2019 season.

Fort Hays State's last appearance in the D2Football.com Top 25 Poll was on November 5, 2019 before it took on a No. 12/14 ranked Northwest Missouri State team in Hays. The Bearcats won that matchup 36-33 in double overtime, which knocked the Tigers out of the rankings the following week. FHSU went on to win the following week and finished the 2019 season at 8-3 overall.

Fort Hays State is one of three schools from the MIAA represented in the September 2 edition of the poll, joining No. 2 Central Missouri and No. 3 Pittsburg State. Central Missouri was idle last week, while Pittsburg State claimed a 19-3 win in a Top 10 matchup against Ferris State.

Fort Hays State was among the teams receiving votes in the AFCA Preseason Top 25 Poll.

D2Football.com Top 25 (September 2, 2024) Rank - Team - Record - Previous Rank 1. Harding - 0-0 - 1 2. Central Missouri - 0-0 - 2 3. Pittsburg State - 1-0 - 4 4. Grand Valley State - 0-0 - 5 5. Valdosta State - 1-0 - 6 6. Colorado School of Mines - 0-0 - 7 7. Central Washington - 0-0 - 8 8. Minnesota State - 1-0 - 11 9. Ferris State - 0-1 - 3 10. Kutztown - 0-0 - 9 11. Slippery Rock - 0-0 - 10 12. Delta State - 1-0 - 14 13. Lenoir-Rhyne - 0-0 - 12 14. West Florida - 0-0 - 13 15. UT Permian Basin - 1-0 - 16 16. Indianapolis - 0-0 - 15 17. Ouachita Baptist - 0-0 - 17 18. Virginia Union - 1-0 - 18 19. Western Colorado - 0-0 - 19 20. Bemidji State - 1-0 - 20 21. Augustana - 0-0 - 21 22. Henderson State - 0-0 - 23 23. Minnesota Duluth - 1-0 - 25 24. Fort Hays State - 1-0 - NR 25. Charleston - 1-0 - 24&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725444757949.png" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State moved into the D2Football.com Top 25 rankings on Monday after its season-opening 21-7 win over Angelo State last week. It's Fort Hays State's first appearance in the D2Football.com Top 25 since the 2019 season.Fort Hays State's last appearance in the D2Football.com Top 25 Poll was on November 5, 2019 before it took on a No. 12/14 ranked Northwest Missouri State team in Hays. The Bearcats won that matchup 36-33 in double overtime, which knocked the Tigers out of the rankings the following week. FHSU went on to win the following week and finished the 2019 season at 8-3 overall.Fort Hays State is one of three schools from the MIAA represented in the September 2 edition of the poll, joining No. 2 Central Missouri and No. 3 Pittsburg State. Central Missouri was idle last week, while Pittsburg State claimed a 19-3 win in a Top 10 matchup against Ferris State.Fort Hays State was among the teams receiving votes in the AFCA Preseason Top 25 Poll.D2Football.com Top 25 (September 2, 2024) Rank - Team - Record - Previous Rank 1. Harding - 0-0 - 1 2. Central Missouri - 0-0 - 2 3. Pittsburg State - 1-0 - 4 4. Grand Valley State - 0-0 - 5 5. Valdosta State - 1-0 - 6 6. Colorado School of Mines - 0-0 - 7 7. Central Washington - 0-0 - 8 8. Minnesota State - 1-0 - 11 9. Ferris State - 0-1 - 3 10. Kutztown - 0-0 - 9 11. Slippery Rock - 0-0 - 10 12. Delta State - 1-0 - 14 13. Lenoir-Rhyne - 0-0 - 12 14. West Florida - 0-0 - 13 15. UT Permian Basin - 1-0 - 16 16. Indianapolis - 0-0 - 15 17. Ouachita Baptist - 0-0 - 17 18. Virginia Union - 1-0 - 18 19. Western Colorado - 0-0 - 19 20. Bemidji State - 1-0 - 20 21. Augustana - 0-0 - 21 22. Henderson State - 0-0 - 23 23. Minnesota Duluth - 1-0 - 25 24. Fort Hays State - 1-0 - NR 25. Charleston - 1-0 - 24&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 FHSU tabbed No. 24 in D2Football.com Top 25 poll

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Fort Hays State women's cross country team was picked third in the 2024 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll, while the Tiger men rank eighth in the preseason ranks.

The Tiger women accumulated 114 points in the balloting process, just 14 behind second-ranked Missouri Southern. Pittsburg State grabbed 11 of 13 first-place votes to lead the way with 143 points.

The Tiger men totaled 54 points, two behind seventh-ranked Emporia State. Pittsburg State also tops the men's poll by just three points over Northwest Missouri State, 113 to 110.The women's team features seven returners, two transfers and eight freshmen. The Tigers return one All-Region performer in&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;and a pair of All-MIAA performers in Vath and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>, who has claimed All-MIAA honors each of the last two seasons. Five of the seven returners placed in the top scoring five for the Tigers at least twice last season, including three that were in the top five in all six races (Vath, Hudgeons and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/8134">Abbye Hudson</a>), one that was in the top five three times (<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/8135">Brenna Murphy</a>) and one that was in the top five twice (<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/8136">Madison Sutterfield</a>).

The men's squad returns 13 student-athletes from last year's squad, including five different competitors that contributed to the team scoring at least once last year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/8158">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;were both in the Tiger top five at all six meets last year, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;was in the scoring five at five different races. The Tigers added 10 newcomers this year, including seven freshmen and three transfers.

The Tigers will open the 2024 season at the 76th Annual JK Gold Classic Saturday morning (Sept. 7) at Clapp Golf Course in Wichita, Kan. The race, hosted by Wichita State University, will begin at 8 a.m. with the men's 6K and will conclude with the women's 5K at 9 a.m.

This is FHSU's first competition in Wichita since 2009 when the Tigers traveled down interstate 135 to compete at the Friends Invitational.

The Tigers will then host the FHSU Tiger Open on Friday, September 13 beginning at 9:15 a.m. at the Rolling Ridge Cross Country Course.

2024 MIAA WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Pittsburg State [11] – 143 points 2. Missouri Southern – 128 points 3. Fort Hays State – 114 points 4. Nebraska Kearney [1] – 108 points 5. Rogers State [1] – 99 points 6. Northwest Missouri – 87 points T7. Missouri Western – 76 points T7. Washburn – 76 points 9. Central Missouri – 54 points 10. Newman – 47 points 11. Emporia State – 42 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 21 points 13. Central Oklahoma – 19 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes

2024 MIAA MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Pittsburg State [7] – 113 points 2. Northwest Missouri [4] – 110 points 3. Washburn – 93 points 4. Missouri Southern [1] – 91 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 86 points 6. Central Missouri – 71 points 7. Emporia State – 56 points 8. Fort Hays State – 54 points 9. Missouri Western – 49 points 10. Newman – 30 points 11. Rogers State – 25 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 14 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725389152241.png" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Fort Hays State women's cross country team was picked third in the 2024 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll, while the Tiger men rank eighth in the preseason ranks.The Tiger women accumulated 114 points in the balloting process, just 14 behind second-ranked Missouri Southern. Pittsburg State grabbed 11 of 13 first-place votes to lead the way with 143 points.The Tiger men totaled 54 points, two behind seventh-ranked Emporia State. Pittsburg State also tops the men's poll by just three points over Northwest Missouri State, 113 to 110.The women's team features seven returners, two transfers and eight freshmen. The Tigers return one All-Region performer in&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;and a pair of All-MIAA performers in Vath and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>, who has claimed All-MIAA honors each of the last two seasons. Five of the seven returners placed in the top scoring five for the Tigers at least twice last season, including three that were in the top five in all six races (Vath, Hudgeons and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/8134">Abbye Hudson</a>), one that was in the top five three times (<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/8135">Brenna Murphy</a>) and one that was in the top five twice (<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/8136">Madison Sutterfield</a>).The men's squad returns 13 student-athletes from last year's squad, including five different competitors that contributed to the team scoring at least once last year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/corbin-ricke/8158">Corbin Ricke</a>&nbsp;were both in the Tiger top five at all six meets last year, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;was in the scoring five at five different races. The Tigers added 10 newcomers this year, including seven freshmen and three transfers.The Tigers will open the 2024 season at the 76th Annual JK Gold Classic Saturday morning (Sept. 7) at Clapp Golf Course in Wichita, Kan. The race, hosted by Wichita State University, will begin at 8 a.m. with the men's 6K and will conclude with the women's 5K at 9 a.m.This is FHSU's first competition in Wichita since 2009 when the Tigers traveled down interstate 135 to compete at the Friends Invitational.The Tigers will then host the FHSU Tiger Open on Friday, September 13 beginning at 9:15 a.m. at the Rolling Ridge Cross Country Course.2024 MIAA WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Pittsburg State [11] – 143 points 2. Missouri Southern – 128 points 3. Fort Hays State – 114 points 4. Nebraska Kearney [1] – 108 points 5. Rogers State [1] – 99 points 6. Northwest Missouri – 87 points T7. Missouri Western – 76 points T7. Washburn – 76 points 9. Central Missouri – 54 points 10. Newman – 47 points 11. Emporia State – 42 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 21 points 13. Central Oklahoma – 19 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes2024 MIAA MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Pittsburg State [7] – 113 points 2. Northwest Missouri [4] – 110 points 3. Washburn – 93 points 4. Missouri Southern [1] – 91 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 86 points 6. Central Missouri – 71 points 7. Emporia State – 56 points 8. Fort Hays State – 54 points 9. Missouri Western – 49 points 10. Newman – 30 points 11. Rogers State – 25 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 14 points [#] - Number of First-Place Votes&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏃‍♀️ FHSU women third, men eighth in MIAA preseason poll

Fort Hays State football opens the 2024 season at home against #24 Angelo State.

Fort Hays State football opens the 2024 season at home against #24 Angelo State.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: FB vs. #24 Angelo State (Aug. 30, 2024)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=xsjyu-16c15af-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind - FB vs. A#24 Angelo State

Tuesday, September 3 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pm

Wednesday, September 4 KAYS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pm

Thursday, September 5 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Baltimore Ravens, 6:00pm

Friday, September 6 KKQY: Logan-Palco FB at Stockton, 6:15pm * KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 6:30pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Derby, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Hoxie FB at Osborne, 6:45pm

Saturday, September 7 KAYS: Kansas FB at Illinois, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pm

Sunday, September 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 12:30pm

Tuesday, September 3 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pmWednesday, September 4 KAYS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pmThursday, September 5 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Baltimore Ravens, 6:00pmFriday, September 6 KKQY: Logan-Palco FB at Stockton, 6:15pm * KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 6:30pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Derby, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Hoxie FB at Osborne, 6:45pmSaturday, September 7 KAYS: Kansas FB at Illinois, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pmSunday, September 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The Kansas City Chiefs have placed running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the non-football injury list, which removes him from the active 53-man roster and means he will be out for at least the first four games of the season. Kansas City plays Baltimore, Cincinnati, Atlanta and the Los Angeles Chargers during that span.

Edwards-Helaire has been dealing with PTSD and vomiting after a 2018 incident when he was in college at LSU.

The Kansas City Chiefs have placed running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on the non-football injury list, which removes him from the active 53-man roster and means he will be out for at least the first four games of the season. Kansas City plays Baltimore, Cincinnati, Atlanta and the Los Angeles Chargers during that span.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Living With PTSD is no small feat, its hard and very overwhelming . Within the last month Ive Had many flare ups and the Amazing staff here at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chiefs</a> have been helping me get through some tough times. I’ll be back rolling next Practice! All Love , Glydro ❤️💛&mdash; GLYDE (@Clydro_22) <a href="https://twitter.com/Clydro_22/status/1817926604770906578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Edwards-Helaire has been dealing with PTSD and vomiting after a 2018 incident when he was in college at LSU.

🏈 Edwards-Helaire out for first four Chiefs games

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gavin Williams pitched seven sharp innings, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday.

Lane Thomas and Josh Naylor each hit a two-run homer for AL Central-leading Cleveland, which won for the fourth time in five games.

Williams (3-7) allowed one run and one hit in an encouraging September performance after he went 1-4 with a 6.56 ERA in five starts last month. The right-hander retired his last 16 batters.

The Guardians began the day with a 3 1/2-game lead over Minnesota and Kansas City in the division.

The Royals finished with two hits in their season-high sixth consecutive loss.

Thomas' ninth homer of the season lifted Cleveland to a 2-1 lead in the fifth. It was Thomas’ first homer since he was acquired in a July 29 trade with Washington.

José Ramírez led off the sixth with an infield single off Kris Bubic. Naylor followed with his 29th homer, a 420-foot drive to center on a 1-0 fastball.

In his last five games, Naylor has eight RBIs and 11 hits, three for extra bases.

Emmanuel Clase handled the ninth for his 41st save. He has converted 28 consecutive save chances.

Maikel Garcia doubled home Yuli Gurriel in the second for Kansas City, and Kyle Isbel added a sacrifice fly in the eighth.

Garcia started at shortstop as Bobby Witt Jr. served as the designated hitter. It was Witt’s first game away from shortstop since last Sept. 4, a span of 161 games.

Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha (11-7) permitted two runs and five hits in five innings in his first loss since June 22.

Royals: 1B Gurriel left in the eighth because of right hamstring tightness.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gavin Williams pitched seven sharp innings, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday.Lane Thomas and Josh Naylor each hit a two-run homer for AL Central-leading Cleveland, which won for the fourth time in five games.Williams (3-7) allowed one run and one hit in an encouraging September performance after he went 1-4 with a 6.56 ERA in five starts last month. The right-hander retired his last 16 batters.The Guardians began the day with a 3 1/2-game lead over Minnesota and Kansas City in the division.The Royals finished with two hits in their season-high sixth consecutive loss.Thomas' ninth homer of the season lifted Cleveland to a 2-1 lead in the fifth. It was Thomas’ first homer since he was acquired in a July 29 trade with Washington.José Ramírez led off the sixth with an infield single off Kris Bubic. Naylor followed with his 29th homer, a 420-foot drive to center on a 1-0 fastball.In his last five games, Naylor has eight RBIs and 11 hits, three for extra bases.Emmanuel Clase handled the ninth for his 41st save. He has converted 28 consecutive save chances.Maikel Garcia doubled home Yuli Gurriel in the second for Kansas City, and Kyle Isbel added a sacrifice fly in the eighth.Garcia started at shortstop as Bobby Witt Jr. served as the designated hitter. It was Witt’s first game away from shortstop since last Sept. 4, a span of 161 games.Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha (11-7) permitted two runs and five hits in five innings in his first loss since June 22.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: 1B Gurriel left in the eighth because of right hamstring tightness.UP NEXT

⚾Williams pitches 7 sharp innings as the Guardians beat the Royals

Monday, September 2 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 3:30pm

Monday, September 2 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 3:30pmTuesday, September 3 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pmWednesday, September 4 KAYS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:00pmThursday, September 5 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Baltimore Ravens, 6:00pmFriday, September 6 KKQY: Logan-Palco FB at Stockton, 6:15pm * KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 6:30pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Derby, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Hoxie FB at Osborne, 6:45pmSaturday, September 7 KAYS: Kansas FB at Illinois, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pmSunday, September 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins, 12:30pm

HOUSTON (AP) — Yordan Alvarez homered twice and Jon Singleton added a two-run shot as the Houston Astros completed a four-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals with a 7-2 win Sunday.

It’s Houston’s fifth straight win overall and comes after the Royals swept a three-game series against the AL West leaders at home in April.

“They kicked our butts early in the season in Kansas City when we were not playing our best,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “But that's why you play 162 and we are a different club. We're getting closer to our goal and we're playing with a different type of intensity and focus and we demonstrated that this series.”

Kansas City lost a season-high fifth straight game to fall into a tie with Minnesota for second in the AL Central, 3 1/2 games behind division-leading Cleveland. The losing streak comes after the Royals won the first of three games of a four-game set against the Guardians and moved into a tie for the division lead. Cleveland and the Royals open another three-game series in Kansas City on Monday.

“The whole series was frustrating,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t come out of here with any wins. That’s what we play for, is to win every day. So that stinks.”

It’s the sixth multi-homer game for Alvarez this season and his second this week after the Cuban slugger tied a career high with three home runs in Wednesday’s 10-0 rout of the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.

Alvarez connected off Alec Marsh (7-8) in the fourth inning before Singleton’s shot made it 3-0. Alvarez belted his 30th home run of the season off Sam Long to start the sixth. He joins Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell as the only players in franchise history with at least four consecutive seasons with at least 30 home runs.

He nearly had another three homer game Sunday, but Tommy Pham caught his fly ball in the eighth inning on the track, just in front of the bullpen.

Sunday was the first time since June 22 that Alvarez homered at Minute Maid Park.

“When I hit the ball, there was like a stress that just left me,” Alvarez said in Spanish through a translator. “Obviously, there had been a while where I hadn’t been hitting the ball for homers here. So I hit that one, then came the other one and then almost the third one came. So hopefully that bad streak is gone."

Houston starter Ronel Blanco (10-6) allowed three hits and struck out three in five innings for his first win since July 9.

Yuli Gurriel hit an RBI single for Kansas City in the sixth and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for a second straight game with a solo shot in the seventh. Gurriel made his debut with the Royals on Sunday after being acquired from Atlanta on Saturday for cash considerations.

The Astros led by three runs when MJ Melendez walked with one out in the sixth and Freddie Fermin singled. Gurriel then singled on a line drive to left field, scoring Melendez and cutting the lead to 3-1.

Witt collected his 30th home run of the season with one out in the seventh, when he connected off Héctor Neris for a second straight game. Witt, who leads the major leagues in hits, batting average and runs, was 0 for 11 in the series before his home run on Saturday.

The Astros padded the lead in the eighth when Yainer Diaz hit an RBI double and Jeremy Peña scored two more on a single to make it 7-2.

Marsh permitted four hits and three runs in five innings.

Astros: OF Kyle Tucker, who has been out since fouling a ball off his shin June 3, continues to improve and could return next week. … 3B Alex Bregman missed a third straight game with elbow inflammation Sunday. But manager Joe Espada said the swelling is almost gone and he should return to the lineup Monday.

Gurriel, who spent his first seven MLB seasons with the Astros, was given a big ovation when he was introduced before the game. Houston fans also cheered loudly for him each time he came to the plate.

The 40-year-old helped the Astros to two World Series titles and won a Gold Glove Award and the AL batting title in 2021.

Gurriel played his first game in the majors this season on Sunday after spending the year in Atlanta’s minor league system.

Royals: RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.50 ERA) opposes Cleveland RHP Gavin Williams (2-7, 4.99) when Kansas City opens a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday.

Astros: RHP Justin Verlander (3-4, 4.16) will start the opener of a three-game series at Cincinnati on Monday. The Reds haven’t released their rotation for the series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725236998008.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals left fielder MJ Melendez catches a line drive hit by Houston Astros' Jose Altuve during the third inning of a baseball game Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals left fielder MJ Melendez catches a line drive hit by Houston Astros' Jose Altuve during the third inning of a baseball game Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)</figcaption>
 </figure>HOUSTON (AP) — Yordan Alvarez homered twice and Jon Singleton added a two-run shot as the Houston Astros completed a four-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals with a 7-2 win Sunday.It’s Houston’s fifth straight win overall and comes after the Royals swept a three-game series against the AL West leaders at home in April.“They kicked our butts early in the season in Kansas City when we were not playing our best,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “But that's why you play 162 and we are a different club. We're getting closer to our goal and we're playing with a different type of intensity and focus and we demonstrated that this series.”Kansas City lost a season-high fifth straight game to fall into a tie with Minnesota for second in the AL Central, 3 1/2 games behind division-leading Cleveland. The losing streak comes after the Royals won the first of three games of a four-game set against the Guardians and moved into a tie for the division lead. Cleveland and the Royals open another three-game series in Kansas City on Monday.“The whole series was frustrating,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t come out of here with any wins. That’s what we play for, is to win every day. So that stinks.”It’s the sixth multi-homer game for Alvarez this season and his second this week after the Cuban slugger tied a career high with three home runs in Wednesday’s 10-0 rout of the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.Alvarez connected off Alec Marsh (7-8) in the fourth inning before Singleton’s shot made it 3-0. Alvarez belted his 30th home run of the season off Sam Long to start the sixth. He joins Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell as the only players in franchise history with at least four consecutive seasons with at least 30 home runs.He nearly had another three homer game Sunday, but Tommy Pham caught his fly ball in the eighth inning on the track, just in front of the bullpen.Sunday was the first time since June 22 that Alvarez homered at Minute Maid Park.“When I hit the ball, there was like a stress that just left me,” Alvarez said in Spanish through a translator. “Obviously, there had been a while where I hadn’t been hitting the ball for homers here. So I hit that one, then came the other one and then almost the third one came. So hopefully that bad streak is gone."Houston starter Ronel Blanco (10-6) allowed three hits and struck out three in five innings for his first win since July 9.Yuli Gurriel hit an RBI single for Kansas City in the sixth and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for a second straight game with a solo shot in the seventh. Gurriel made his debut with the Royals on Sunday after being acquired from Atlanta on Saturday for cash considerations.The Astros led by three runs when MJ Melendez walked with one out in the sixth and Freddie Fermin singled. Gurriel then singled on a line drive to left field, scoring Melendez and cutting the lead to 3-1.Witt collected his 30th home run of the season with one out in the seventh, when he connected off Héctor Neris for a second straight game. Witt, who leads the major leagues in hits, batting average and runs, was 0 for 11 in the series before his home run on Saturday.The Astros padded the lead in the eighth when Yainer Diaz hit an RBI double and Jeremy Peña scored two more on a single to make it 7-2.Marsh permitted four hits and three runs in five innings.TRAINER'S ROOMAstros: OF Kyle Tucker, who has been out since fouling a ball off his shin June 3, continues to improve and could return next week. … 3B Alex Bregman missed a third straight game with elbow inflammation Sunday. But manager Joe Espada said the swelling is almost gone and he should return to the lineup Monday.WELCOME BACKGurriel, who spent his first seven MLB seasons with the Astros, was given a big ovation when he was introduced before the game. Houston fans also cheered loudly for him each time he came to the plate.The 40-year-old helped the Astros to two World Series titles and won a Gold Glove Award and the AL batting title in 2021.Gurriel played his first game in the majors this season on Sunday after spending the year in Atlanta’s minor league system.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.50 ERA) opposes Cleveland RHP Gavin Williams (2-7, 4.99) when Kansas City opens a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday.Astros: RHP Justin Verlander (3-4, 4.16) will start the opener of a three-game series at Cincinnati on Monday. The Reds haven’t released their rotation for the series.___

⚾ Alvarez homers twice as Astros complete 4-game sweep of Royals 

Sunday, September 1
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 12:30pm

Sunday, September 1
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 12:30pm

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes and Kansas State got contributions from all three phases of the game to lead the No. 18 Wildcats to a season-opening 41-6 win over UT Martin on Saturday night.

The Wildcats’ defense dominated early and often, allowing the Wildcats’ offense to find its footing. Kansas State limited the Skyhawks to 134 total yards (2.4 yards per play).

K-State also befuddled UT Martin's passing attack by sacking Kinkead Dent three times. The Wildcats finished with four sacks, led by sophomore defensive end Tobi Osunsanmi’s 1 1/2.

Meanwhile, the Wildcats’ offense had its moments behind Johnson, a sophomore who became K-State’s second-youngest quarterback to start a season opener.

He made his mark in the first quarter when he connected with tight end Brayden Loftin for a 23-yard touchdown to cap a seven-play, 80-yard drive that gave K-State an early 7-0 lead.

Johnson finished 14 of 21 for 153 yards and two TDs with an interception. He also ran for 37 yards on three carries.

DJ Giddens gouged UT Martin’s defense with a team-high 124 yards on 13 carries, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt. As a team, the Wildcats totaled 283 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries.

K-State’s special teams took center stage in the first half when the Skyhawks were forced to punt deep in their own territory. Ty Bowman burst through the right side of the line of scrimmage at the snap and blocked UT Martin’s Jaren Van Winkle’s punt. Colby McCalister scooped the loose ball at the 2-yard line and took it into the end zone to give the Wildcats a 14-0 lead.

Dent got the Skyhawks moving on their fifth possession. He took advantage of a missed sack opportunity by the K-State defense on the drive. Facing a third-and-19 situation, Dent slipped a tackle attempt and rolled to his left before throwing across his body to an open Trevonte Rucker, who got behind the Wildcats defense for a 45-yard gain.

The Wildcats stiffened, however, and the Skyhawks settled for Van Winkle’s 34-yard field goal. Van Winkle added a 31-yarder in the third quarter.

But outside of the 45-yard gain, the Wildcats limited UT Martin’s big plays and kept the Skyhawks out of the end zone en route to the win.

Young’s interception came on a play during which he stared down his intended receiver — Giddens — down the middle of the field. Young’s pass resulted in Chris Martin easily picking off the ball to end a Wildcats drive in Skyhawks territory.

UT Martin had no semblance of a run game. A total of nine Skyhawks rushers combined for 36 yards on 38 carries, averaging a paltry 0.9 yards per attempt.

K-State’s season is off to a good start with a win against a team they should beat. The victory, however, isn’t likely to see the Wildcats make a move up the polls.

K-State: On the road on Sept. 7 to play Tulane.

UT Martin: Travels to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on Sept. 7 to take on Southeast Missouri State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725157501496.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Avery Johnson threw two touchdown passes and Kansas State got contributions from all three phases of the game to lead the No. 18 Wildcats to a season-opening 41-6 win over UT Martin on Saturday night.The Wildcats’ defense dominated early and often, allowing the Wildcats’ offense to find its footing. Kansas State limited the Skyhawks to 134 total yards (2.4 yards per play).K-State also befuddled UT Martin's passing attack by sacking Kinkead Dent three times. The Wildcats finished with four sacks, led by sophomore defensive end Tobi Osunsanmi’s 1 1/2.Meanwhile, the Wildcats’ offense had its moments behind Johnson, a sophomore who became K-State’s second-youngest quarterback to start a season opener.He made his mark in the first quarter when he connected with tight end Brayden Loftin for a 23-yard touchdown to cap a seven-play, 80-yard drive that gave K-State an early 7-0 lead.Johnson finished 14 of 21 for 153 yards and two TDs with an interception. He also ran for 37 yards on three carries.DJ Giddens gouged UT Martin’s defense with a team-high 124 yards on 13 carries, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt. As a team, the Wildcats totaled 283 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries.K-State’s special teams took center stage in the first half when the Skyhawks were forced to punt deep in their own territory. Ty Bowman burst through the right side of the line of scrimmage at the snap and blocked UT Martin’s Jaren Van Winkle’s punt. Colby McCalister scooped the loose ball at the 2-yard line and took it into the end zone to give the Wildcats a 14-0 lead.Dent got the Skyhawks moving on their fifth possession. He took advantage of a missed sack opportunity by the K-State defense on the drive. Facing a third-and-19 situation, Dent slipped a tackle attempt and rolled to his left before throwing across his body to an open Trevonte Rucker, who got behind the Wildcats defense for a 45-yard gain.The Wildcats stiffened, however, and the Skyhawks settled for Van Winkle’s 34-yard field goal. Van Winkle added a 31-yarder in the third quarter.But outside of the 45-yard gain, the Wildcats limited UT Martin’s big plays and kept the Skyhawks out of the end zone en route to the win.THE TAKEAWAYYoung’s interception came on a play during which he stared down his intended receiver — Giddens — down the middle of the field. Young’s pass resulted in Chris Martin easily picking off the ball to end a Wildcats drive in Skyhawks territory.UT Martin had no semblance of a run game. A total of nine Skyhawks rushers combined for 36 yards on 38 carries, averaging a paltry 0.9 yards per attempt.POLL IMPLICATIONSK-State’s season is off to a good start with a win against a team they should beat. The victory, however, isn’t likely to see the Wildcats make a move up the polls.UP NEXTK-State: On the road on Sept. 7 to play Tulane.UT Martin: Travels to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on Sept. 7 to take on Southeast Missouri State University.

🏈 No. 18 Kansas State cruises to win over UT Martin

HOUSTON (AP) — Yusei Kikuchi struck out 12 in seven innings to lead the Houston Astros to a 5-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.

Kikuchi (7-9) improved to 3-0 with a 2.57 ERA since he was acquired by Houston a day before the trade deadline. He gave up five hits, only allowing Kansas City a run on a fielder’s choice grounder that followed two singles in the seventh. He threw 101 pitches, including 75 for strikes and walked none.

“He was really, really, really good,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “He had all his pitches working, both sides of the plate. Our starting pitching has been phenomenal for a while, and Kikuchi just adds another level of quality of starts that we’ve been getting from these guys.”

Kikuchi pumped his fist following his 12th strikeout to end the seventh.

“The last couple of games, the starters have been doing really well so I wanted to do my part,” Kikuchi said. “The defensive plays behind me, especially (Ben) Gamel there in right, that was a huge play. Just watching that, I got pumped up today.”

Ryan Pressly pitched a scoreless ninth for his third save of the season.

Kikuchi had no run support until the Astros chased Royals starter Cole Ragans (10-9) in a five-run sixth inning. Yainer Diaz hit a two-run single, and Jeremy Peña hit a two-run triple during the inning, before Peña scored on a wild pitch.

Ragans looked dominant for much of the first five innings, allowing just one hit and matching a Royals franchise record with eight consecutive strikeouts. The record was set by Blake Stein in 2001 at Milwaukee.

“I was good for five and terrible for one,” Ragans said. “I mean, the record’s cool, but all I want to do is win. That’s all I want to do. Obviously, I didn’t get that done tonight, and I feel like I let the guys down."

Ragans finished with 10 strikeouts, pushing his season total to 197, which is the most by a Royals lefty in a single season.

“He was extremely sharp early,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Then, in the fifth, it was an 0-2 hit, a hit batter, a tough walk, and then things just kind of unraveled.”

Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. hit his 29th home run of the season in the eighth inning off reliever Hector Neris, who the Astros signed on Aug. 24 after he was released by the Cubs on Aug. 20.

Witt, who leads the major leagues in hits, batting average and runs, had previously had a rough time in Houston, going 0 for 11 this series. He entered Saturday 0 for 19 in his home state of Texas.

“You just wake up tomorrow and move on,” Witt said. “We can’t really do anything now so we just learn what we did and prepare for tomorrow.”

Later in the eighth, Royals right fielder Garrett Hampson robbed Alvarez of what would have been his 29th homer of the season. Hampson leaped at the wall and had to fully extend his left arm well above the yellow home run line to bring it back.

Kansas City claimed a pair of veteran outfielders off waivers on Saturday in Robbie Grossman, 35, and Tommy Pham, 36. Grossman was claimed from Texas, where he won the World Series last year, while Pham was claimed from St. Louis. The Royals also acquired former Astros 1B Yuli Gurriel from Atlanta on a minor league deal for cash considerations.

Astros: 3B Alex Bregman is “still sore” but was “much better” as he missed Saturday’s game with elbow soreness that has sidelined him for several games in recent weeks.

Royals RHP Alec Marsh (7-7, 4.67 ERA) will start against Astros RHP Ronel Blanco (9-6, 3.14) as Houston goes for a four-game sweep on Sunday.

HOUSTON (AP) — Yusei Kikuchi struck out 12 in seven innings to lead the Houston Astros to a 5-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.Kikuchi (7-9) improved to 3-0 with a 2.57 ERA since he was acquired by Houston a day before the trade deadline. He gave up five hits, only allowing Kansas City a run on a fielder’s choice grounder that followed two singles in the seventh. He threw 101 pitches, including 75 for strikes and walked none.“He was really, really, really good,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “He had all his pitches working, both sides of the plate. Our starting pitching has been phenomenal for a while, and Kikuchi just adds another level of quality of starts that we’ve been getting from these guys.”Kikuchi pumped his fist following his 12th strikeout to end the seventh.“The last couple of games, the starters have been doing really well so I wanted to do my part,” Kikuchi said. “The defensive plays behind me, especially (Ben) Gamel there in right, that was a huge play. Just watching that, I got pumped up today.”Ryan Pressly pitched a scoreless ninth for his third save of the season.Kikuchi had no run support until the Astros chased Royals starter Cole Ragans (10-9) in a five-run sixth inning. Yainer Diaz hit a two-run single, and Jeremy Peña hit a two-run triple during the inning, before Peña scored on a wild pitch.Ragans looked dominant for much of the first five innings, allowing just one hit and matching a Royals franchise record with eight consecutive strikeouts. The record was set by Blake Stein in 2001 at Milwaukee.“I was good for five and terrible for one,” Ragans said. “I mean, the record’s cool, but all I want to do is win. That’s all I want to do. Obviously, I didn’t get that done tonight, and I feel like I let the guys down."Ragans finished with 10 strikeouts, pushing his season total to 197, which is the most by a Royals lefty in a single season.“He was extremely sharp early,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Then, in the fifth, it was an 0-2 hit, a hit batter, a tough walk, and then things just kind of unraveled.”Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. hit his 29th home run of the season in the eighth inning off reliever Hector Neris, who the Astros signed on Aug. 24 after he was released by the Cubs on Aug. 20.Witt, who leads the major leagues in hits, batting average and runs, had previously had a rough time in Houston, going 0 for 11 this series. He entered Saturday 0 for 19 in his home state of Texas.“You just wake up tomorrow and move on,” Witt said. “We can’t really do anything now so we just learn what we did and prepare for tomorrow.”Later in the eighth, Royals right fielder Garrett Hampson robbed Alvarez of what would have been his 29th homer of the season. Hampson leaped at the wall and had to fully extend his left arm well above the yellow home run line to bring it back.ROYALS’ NEW ADDITIONSKansas City claimed a pair of veteran outfielders off waivers on Saturday in Robbie Grossman, 35, and Tommy Pham, 36. Grossman was claimed from Texas, where he won the World Series last year, while Pham was claimed from St. Louis. The Royals also acquired former Astros 1B Yuli Gurriel from Atlanta on a minor league deal for cash considerations.TRAINER’S ROOMAstros: 3B Alex Bregman is “still sore” but was “much better” as he missed Saturday’s game with elbow soreness that has sidelined him for several games in recent weeks.UP NEXTRoyals RHP Alec Marsh (7-7, 4.67 ERA) will start against Astros RHP Ronel Blanco (9-6, 3.14) as Houston goes for a four-game sweep on Sunday.___

⚾ Kikuchi strikes out 12 in 7 innings as Astros beat Royals

HAYS - Olathe West held off late charges from Beloit in both of the championship sets to win the Maroon and Gold championship on Saturday at Hays High School. The Owls won both sets 25-23 to improve to 5-0 on the young season. The Trojans fell to 3-2 with both losses coming to West.

Hays and TMP battled it out for third place with the Monarchs avenging a pool play loss to the Indians. TMP won the match 25-23, 25-23.

Fifth place was won by Colby over Salina South. Colby trailed 24-17 in the second set before winning 26-24. They won the first set 30-28.

Scott City defeated Wichita Southeast for 7th.

Results from pool play: Olathe West def Colby - 25-13, 25-21
 Hays High def TMP - 22-25, 25-16, 25-16
 Beloit def Salina South - 25-21, 25-14
 &nbsp;TMP def Wichita SE - 25-18, 25-17
 Hays High def Scott City - 25-20, 25-13
 Salina South def Colby - 20-25, 25-13, 25-23
 &nbsp;Scott City def Wichita SE - 25-21, 22-25, 25-21
 Olathe West def Salina South - 25-21, 25-13
 Beloit def Colby - 25-16, 25-14
 &nbsp;TMP def Scott City - 25-18, 25-17
 Hays High def Wichita SE - 25-15, 25-19
 Olathe West def Beloit - 25-14, 25-22

Pool Results
 Pool A
 1st – Olathe West
 2nd – Beloit
 3rd – Salina South
 4th – Colby

Pool B 1st – Hays
 2nd – TMP
 3rd – Scott City
 4th – Wichita Southeast

Championship Bracket
Semifinals
 Beloit - 25-23, 23-25, 25-22
 Olathe West def TMP - 25-8, 25-10

Third Place

 TMP def Hays High - 25-23, 25-23

Championship
 Olathe West def Beloit - 25-23, 25-23

Consolation Bracket Semifinals Salina South def Wichita Southeast - 26-24, 17-25, 27-25
 Colby def Scott City - 25-20, 25-10

7th Place
 Scott City def Wichita Southeast - 25-23, 28-26

5th Place
 Colby def Salina South - 30-28, 26-24

Hays PostHAYS - Olathe West held off late charges from Beloit in both of the championship sets to win the Maroon and Gold championship on Saturday at Hays High School. The Owls won both sets 25-23 to improve to 5-0 on the young season. The Trojans fell to 3-2 with both losses coming to West.Hays and TMP battled it out for third place with the Monarchs avenging a pool play loss to the Indians. TMP won the match 25-23, 25-23.Fifth place was won by Colby over Salina South. Colby trailed 24-17 in the second set before winning 26-24. They won the first set 30-28.Scott City defeated Wichita Southeast for 7th.Results from pool play: Olathe West def Colby - 25-13, 25-21
 Hays High def TMP - 22-25, 25-16, 25-16
 Beloit def Salina South - 25-21, 25-14
 &nbsp;TMP def Wichita SE - 25-18, 25-17
 Hays High def Scott City - 25-20, 25-13
 Salina South def Colby - 20-25, 25-13, 25-23
 &nbsp;Scott City def Wichita SE - 25-21, 22-25, 25-21
 Olathe West def Salina South - 25-21, 25-13
 Beloit def Colby - 25-16, 25-14
 &nbsp;TMP def Scott City - 25-18, 25-17
 Hays High def Wichita SE - 25-15, 25-19
 Olathe West def Beloit - 25-14, 25-22Pool Results
 Pool A
 1st – Olathe West
 2nd – Beloit
 3rd – Salina South
 4th – ColbyPool B 1st – Hays
 2nd – TMP
 3rd – Scott City
 4th – Wichita SoutheastChampionship Bracket
Semifinals
 Beloit - 25-23, 23-25, 25-22
 Olathe West def TMP - 25-8, 25-10Third Place

 TMP def Hays High - 25-23, 25-23Championship
 Olathe West def Beloit - 25-23, 25-23Consolation Bracket Semifinals Salina South def Wichita Southeast - 26-24, 17-25, 27-25
 Colby def Scott City - 25-20, 25-107th Place
 Scott City def Wichita Southeast - 25-23, 28-26 5th Place
 Colby def Salina South - 30-28, 26-24

🏐 Olathe West wins Maroon & Gold; TMP 3rd, Hays 4th

Saturday, August 31
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 5:30pm

Saturday, August 31
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 5:30pmSunday, September 1
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 12:30pm

HOUSTON (AP) — Framber Valdez pitched seven no-hit innings and Jose Altuve hit a game-ending RBI double in the ninth to lift the Houston Astros to a 3-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

The game was tied at 2-all when Jake Meyers singled off James McArthur (5-6) with one out in the ninth. There were two outs when Altuve bounced his double off the wall in left field to send Meyers home and set off a wild celebration.

“He always finds a way to wow us and that’s another big swing by Jose Altuve,” manager Joe Espada said.

The Royals trailed 2-0 and had just one hit when Bobby Witt Jr. reached on an error by shortstop Jeremy Peña to start the ninth. With one out, Paul DeJong sent a slider from Josh Hader (7-7) into the Crawford Boxes in left field to tie it.

Valdez was pulled after throwing 98 pitches, 60 for strikes, with seven strikeouts, three walks and a hit batter. He wasn't upset that Espada removed him from the game with the no-hitter intact.

“He made the decision that I was done there and I agreed,” Valdez said through an interpreter. “The most important thing was that we won the game.”

Espada raved about his starter's performance.

“That curveball, the sinker kept that all-righty lineup off-balance,” Espada said. “His stuff is so good. Efficient, composed, going after hitters, getting big outs.”

Bryan Abreu took over to start the eighth and retired Michael Massey on a fly ball before pinch-hitter MJ Melendez grounded out. Pinch-hitter Kyle Isbel then grounded a single to left field for the Royals' first hit.

The 30-year-old Valdez threw a no-hitter against Cleveland on Aug. 1, 2023. He nearly had a second one earlier this month before Corey Seager homered with two outs in the ninth inning of a 4-2 win over Texas on Aug. 6.

It was the second time this week the Astros took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning. Spencer Arrighetti allowed his first hit to start the eighth in a 10-0 win over the NL East-leading Phillies on Wednesday.

Valdez sailed through the first four innings but needed some help from his defense in the fifth. Freddy Fermin hit a sharp grounder to Peña, who fielded it and made a leaping throw that bounced to Victor Caratini at first just before Fermin’s foot hit the bag.

Valdez smiled and pointed at Peña after the play. Nick Loftin grounded out to end the inning.

Valdez hit Perez with a pitch with one out in the seventh before striking out DeJong. Fermin walked, prompting a visit from pitching coach Josh Miller. Valdez then struck out Loftin to end his night.

Espada said it was a tough decision to remove Valdez but that he thought it was best because of how hard he had to work in the seventh inning.

Ben Gamel led off Houston’s third with his first home run this season, a shot to center field.

Yainer Diaz singled with one out in the eighth before a double by Caratini. The Astros made it 2-0 when Diaz scored on a sacrifice fly by Peña.

Seth Lugo permitted six hits and a run with nine strikeouts in six innings.

“He had it all working,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “Seven innings of one-run baseball against that team is a phenomenal effort.”

Royals: 1B Vinnie Pasquantino will miss the rest of the regular season after breaking his right thumb while trying to make a play Thursday night. The injury will require surgery and the expected recovery time is 6-to-8 weeks, meaning Pasquantino could potentially return if the Royals make a playoff run. ... Reliever Lucas Erceg was injured on the same play when he tried to barehand a comebacker. His hand was bruised and swollen Friday but Quatraro said the injury wasn’t serious.

Astros: 3B Alex Bregman was out of the lineup Friday with elbow soreness. ... RF Kyle Tucker (right shin bruise) took live batting practice Friday for the first time since fouling a ball off his leg June 3. Tucker said he’s feeling good and believes he can return soon. He added that he hopes not to go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment and instead prepare for his return by doing more live BP and possibly simulated games.

Houston LHP Yusei Kikuchi (6-9, 4.39 ERA) opposes LHP Cole Ragans (10-8, 3.28) when the series continues Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725072957125.jpeg" alt="Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) is mobbed by his teammates after hitting a walk-off RBI double during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)" />
 <figcaption>Houston Astros' Jose Altuve (27) is mobbed by his teammates after hitting a walk-off RBI double during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Kevin M. Cox)</figcaption>
 </figure>HOUSTON (AP) — Framber Valdez pitched seven no-hit innings and Jose Altuve hit a game-ending RBI double in the ninth to lift the Houston Astros to a 3-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.The game was tied at 2-all when Jake Meyers singled off James McArthur (5-6) with one out in the ninth. There were two outs when Altuve bounced his double off the wall in left field to send Meyers home and set off a wild celebration.“He always finds a way to wow us and that’s another big swing by Jose Altuve,” manager Joe Espada said.The Royals trailed 2-0 and had just one hit when Bobby Witt Jr. reached on an error by shortstop Jeremy Peña to start the ninth. With one out, Paul DeJong sent a slider from Josh Hader (7-7) into the Crawford Boxes in left field to tie it.Valdez was pulled after throwing 98 pitches, 60 for strikes, with seven strikeouts, three walks and a hit batter. He wasn't upset that Espada removed him from the game with the no-hitter intact.“He made the decision that I was done there and I agreed,” Valdez said through an interpreter. “The most important thing was that we won the game.”Espada raved about his starter's performance.“That curveball, the sinker kept that all-righty lineup off-balance,” Espada said. “His stuff is so good. Efficient, composed, going after hitters, getting big outs.”Bryan Abreu took over to start the eighth and retired Michael Massey on a fly ball before pinch-hitter MJ Melendez grounded out. Pinch-hitter Kyle Isbel then grounded a single to left field for the Royals' first hit.The 30-year-old Valdez threw a no-hitter against Cleveland on Aug. 1, 2023. He nearly had a second one earlier this month before Corey Seager homered with two outs in the ninth inning of a 4-2 win over Texas on Aug. 6.It was the second time this week the Astros took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning. Spencer Arrighetti allowed his first hit to start the eighth in a 10-0 win over the NL East-leading Phillies on Wednesday.Valdez sailed through the first four innings but needed some help from his defense in the fifth. Freddy Fermin hit a sharp grounder to Peña, who fielded it and made a leaping throw that bounced to Victor Caratini at first just before Fermin’s foot hit the bag.Valdez smiled and pointed at Peña after the play. Nick Loftin grounded out to end the inning.Valdez hit Perez with a pitch with one out in the seventh before striking out DeJong. Fermin walked, prompting a visit from pitching coach Josh Miller. Valdez then struck out Loftin to end his night.Espada said it was a tough decision to remove Valdez but that he thought it was best because of how hard he had to work in the seventh inning.Ben Gamel led off Houston’s third with his first home run this season, a shot to center field.Yainer Diaz singled with one out in the eighth before a double by Caratini. The Astros made it 2-0 when Diaz scored on a sacrifice fly by Peña.Seth Lugo permitted six hits and a run with nine strikeouts in six innings.“He had it all working,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “Seven innings of one-run baseball against that team is a phenomenal effort.”TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: 1B Vinnie Pasquantino will miss the rest of the regular season after breaking his right thumb while trying to make a play Thursday night. The injury will require surgery and the expected recovery time is 6-to-8 weeks, meaning Pasquantino could potentially return if the Royals make a playoff run. ... Reliever Lucas Erceg was injured on the same play when he tried to barehand a comebacker. His hand was bruised and swollen Friday but Quatraro said the injury wasn’t serious.Astros: 3B Alex Bregman was out of the lineup Friday with elbow soreness. ... RF Kyle Tucker (right shin bruise) took live batting practice Friday for the first time since fouling a ball off his leg June 3. Tucker said he’s feeling good and believes he can return soon. He added that he hopes not to go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment and instead prepare for his return by doing more live BP and possibly simulated games.UP NEXTHouston LHP Yusei Kikuchi (6-9, 4.39 ERA) opposes LHP Cole Ragans (10-8, 3.28) when the series continues Saturday night.

⚾Royals held hitless through 7, Altuve's hit in 9th lifts Astros to win

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State opened the 2024 football season with a 21-7 win over No. 24 ranked Angelo State at Lewis Field on Friday afternoon in a game postponed from the night before due to lightning. The Tigers claimed their first-ever win over a team from Texas and have now won back-to-back games against AFCA ranked opponents at Lewis Field. 

Fort Hays State (1-0), receiving votes in the AFCA Preseason Top 25 poll, snapped a four-season run of dropping home openers with their first win in a home opener since the 2018 season. Two of those four losses in that run were to nationally ranked teams.

The Tiger defense allowed just 203 yards of total offense to the Rams. The Tigers had big performances from the men in the middle, led by linebacker Makel Williams who had 12 tackles and&nbsp;and a new FHSU high for Benyon Williams&nbsp;with 11 tackles. Sam Brandt&nbsp;&nbsp;matched his career high in tackles with 10. Mason Perez forced a key fumble to set up FHSU's final score early in the fourth quarter to make the eventual final score. 

The Tigers scored on their second possession thanks to big plays from brothers Travis and Shane Watts. Travis opened the seven-play, 90-yard march with a 24-yard reception. Shane capped it with a 51-yard pass reception, breaking several tackles before winning a footrace to the endzone.

FHSU marched 90-yards for a touchdown on their next possession. Freshman receiver Jabari Lewis&nbsp;had a big field-flipping reception, going 51 yards to the ASU 17. Three plays later, Ryan Allen&nbsp;hauled in a 19-yard reception to put the Tigers up 14-0.

Angelo State scored their lone touchdown on its third drive of the game. The Rams used six plays to go 65 yards, capped by a 28-yard touchdown run by quarterback Kaeden Smith to cut the lead to 14-7.

The third quarter was a stalemate with five punts between the two teams. The Perez forced fumble on the first play of the fourth quarter was recovered at the Rams 14-yard line Shane Watts&nbsp;did all the work with three rushes capped with a six-yard scamper into the endzone.

Shane Watts&nbsp;finished the game with 122 all-purpose yards, rushing for 60 and receiving for 62. Jack Dawson&nbsp;spread the ball around to eight different receivers, going 23-of-36 for 271 yards with the two touchdown passes and an interception. 

Dawson moved into a tie for sixth on FHSU's all-time passing touchdowns list with Dustin McEwen.&nbsp;

Trevor Watts&nbsp;led the Tigers in receiving yards with 73 on six catches. The Tigers had four receivers finish with at least 40 yards in the game.

Fort Hays State will host Missouri Western State (1-0) on Saturday, September 7. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725067714453.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State running back Shane Watts breaks a 51-yard touchdown run in the first quarter of an NCAA football game vs. Angelo State on Friday, August 30, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (Hays Post photo/Jeff Leiker)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State running back Shane Watts breaks a 51-yard touchdown run in the first quarter of an NCAA football game vs. Angelo State on Friday, August 30, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (Hays Post photo/Jeff Leiker)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State opened the 2024 football season with a 21-7 win over No. 24 ranked Angelo State at Lewis Field on Friday afternoon in a game postponed from the night before due to lightning. The Tigers claimed their first-ever win over a team from Texas and have now won back-to-back games against AFCA ranked opponents at Lewis Field. Fort Hays State (1-0), receiving votes in the AFCA Preseason Top 25 poll, snapped a four-season run of dropping home openers with their first win in a home opener since the 2018 season. Two of those four losses in that run were to nationally ranked teams.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1907369582&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-postgame-v-angelo-state-08-30-24" title="Chris Brown Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)</a></div></div>The Tiger defense allowed just 203 yards of total offense to the Rams. The Tigers had big performances from the men in the middle, led by linebacker Makel Williams who had 12 tackles and&nbsp;and a new FHSU high for Benyon Williams&nbsp;with 11 tackles. Sam Brandt&nbsp;&nbsp;matched his career high in tackles with 10. Mason Perez forced a key fumble to set up FHSU's final score early in the fourth quarter to make the eventual final score. The Tigers scored on their second possession thanks to big plays from brothers Travis and Shane Watts. Travis opened the seven-play, 90-yard march with a 24-yard reception. Shane capped it with a 51-yard pass reception, breaking several tackles before winning a footrace to the endzone.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1907312792&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/jack-dawson-postgame-vs-angelo-state" title="Jack Dawson Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jack Dawson Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)</a></div></div>FHSU marched 90-yards for a touchdown on their next possession. Freshman receiver Jabari Lewis&nbsp;had a big field-flipping reception, going 51 yards to the ASU 17. Three plays later, Ryan Allen&nbsp;hauled in a 19-yard reception to put the Tigers up 14-0.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725067917270.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Ryan Allen (11) hauls in a touchdown catch in the first quarter of an NCAA college football game against Angelo State on Friday, August 30, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Ryan Allen (11) hauls in a touchdown catch in the first quarter of an NCAA college football game against Angelo State on Friday, August 30, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)</figcaption>
 </figure>Angelo State scored their lone touchdown on its third drive of the game. The Rams used six plays to go 65 yards, capped by a 28-yard touchdown run by quarterback Kaeden Smith to cut the lead to 14-7.The third quarter was a stalemate with five punts between the two teams. The Perez forced fumble on the first play of the fourth quarter was recovered at the Rams 14-yard line Shane Watts&nbsp;did all the work with three rushes capped with a six-yard scamper into the endzone.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1907312306&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/benny-williams-postgame-v-angelo-state" title="Benyon Williams Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Benyon Williams Postgame vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)</a></div></div>Shane Watts&nbsp;finished the game with 122 all-purpose yards, rushing for 60 and receiving for 62. Jack Dawson&nbsp;spread the ball around to eight different receivers, going 23-of-36 for 271 yards with the two touchdown passes and an interception. Dawson moved into a tie for sixth on FHSU's all-time passing touchdowns list with Dustin McEwen.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1907312321&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-fb-highlights-vs-angelo-state-8-30-24-mixdown" title="FHSU FB Highlights vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU FB Highlights vs. Angelo State (August 30, 2024)</a></div></div>Trevor Watts&nbsp;led the Tigers in receiving yards with 73 on six catches. The Tigers had four receivers finish with at least 40 yards in the game.UP NEXTFort Hays State will host Missouri Western State (1-0) on Saturday, September 7. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

🏈 Tigers open season with win over No. 24 Angelo State

Friday, August 30
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 6:30pm

Friday, August 30
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 6:30pmSaturday, August 31
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 5:30pmSunday, September 1
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Houston Astros, 12:30pm

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns on eight first-half carries and No. 22 Kansas beat Lindenwood 48-3 on Thursday night in the opener for both teams.

Kansas outscored Lindenwood 27-0 in the second quarter at Children’s Mercy Park. Lindenwood, in its third year as an FCS program, played its first game against an FBS opponent.

Daniels, who played only in the first half for Kansas, was 9 of 15 for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

“For the first game, it was about what I hoped for,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I thought Jalon (Daniels) played really well. I thought Devin and Daniel (Hishaw) ran the ball hard. I thought all our backs ran the ball hard.

"I thought the defense was solid. There are still some things with communication where we've got to be better. It was a good night, but there are some things as we step up and play a Big Ten opponent (Illinois) next, we've got to be better.”

The Jayhawks are playing home games in Kansas City — two at Children’s Mercy Park and four at Arrowhead Stadium — because of stadium renovations.

“I thought the atmosphere was great at the beginning of the game,” Leipold said. “There was energy. After a few of those big plays, in the second half it tapered down a little bit.”

Lindenwood averted a shutout with a 34-yard field goal by Logan Seibert with 6:12 left.

After forcing a three-and-out on Lindenwood's first series, Kansas marched 65 yards in nine plays for its first touchdown. Neal punched it in from the 5. Kansas had to convert a fourth-and-3 on the drive.

But that's all the offense Kansas could muster in the first quarter. Lindenwood ran 20 plays in the first quarter, compared to just 12 for Kansas, and the Lions held the ball for almost 10 minutes.

Turnovers hurt Kansas early in the first half. Quentin Skinner fumbled on Kansas' second drive. Daniels then threw an interception, ending the Jayhawks' third drive early in the second quarter.

Luke Grimm said he and Daniels read different coverages, but Daniels took the blame.

“Luke read the defense perfectly," Daniels said. "That play was on me. I have to give props to the DB for making that play.”

Neal gave the Jayhawks a 14-0 lead in the second quarter on a 1-yard scamper, capping a seven-play, 85-yard drive.

Mello Dotson put Kansas up 20-0 with an interception return. He stepped in front of a pass on the right sideline and raced 33 yards untouched. The extra point caromed off the upright.

“At the beginning of that play, the quarterback was staring down his receiver,” Dotson said. “He gave him a sign to run the out route. I saw the quarterback give him that sign and I knew the ball was coming my way.”

Daniels then hit Grimm with a 58-yard touchdown strike to extend the lead to 27-0, vindicating Daniels.

“I just had to forget the (bad) play and make sure my next throw was the right throw.”

Hishaw's 1-yard run with 4 seconds left in the half made it 34-0.

Lindenwood saw the difference between the two levels of Division I in the trenches. The Lions averaged just 3.5 yards per play, compared to 8.2 yards per play for Kansas. Kansas will need to address the turnovers on offense as the quality of opponent ramps up next week.

Lindenwood: Hosts Central Arkansas on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Kansas: At Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725011060418.jpeg" alt="Kansas running back Devin Neal (4) runs for a first down during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Lindenwood Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas running back Devin Neal (4) runs for a first down during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Lindenwood Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Devin Neal ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns on eight first-half carries and No. 22 Kansas beat Lindenwood 48-3 on Thursday night in the opener for both teams.Kansas outscored Lindenwood 27-0 in the second quarter at Children’s Mercy Park. Lindenwood, in its third year as an FCS program, played its first game against an FBS opponent.Daniels, who played only in the first half for Kansas, was 9 of 15 for 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception.“For the first game, it was about what I hoped for,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I thought Jalon (Daniels) played really well. I thought Devin and Daniel (Hishaw) ran the ball hard. I thought all our backs ran the ball hard."I thought the defense was solid. There are still some things with communication where we've got to be better. It was a good night, but there are some things as we step up and play a Big Ten opponent (Illinois) next, we've got to be better.”The Jayhawks are playing home games in Kansas City — two at Children’s Mercy Park and four at Arrowhead Stadium — because of stadium renovations.“I thought the atmosphere was great at the beginning of the game,” Leipold said. “There was energy. After a few of those big plays, in the second half it tapered down a little bit.”Lindenwood averted a shutout with a 34-yard field goal by Logan Seibert with 6:12 left.After forcing a three-and-out on Lindenwood's first series, Kansas marched 65 yards in nine plays for its first touchdown. Neal punched it in from the 5. Kansas had to convert a fourth-and-3 on the drive.But that's all the offense Kansas could muster in the first quarter. Lindenwood ran 20 plays in the first quarter, compared to just 12 for Kansas, and the Lions held the ball for almost 10 minutes.Turnovers hurt Kansas early in the first half. Quentin Skinner fumbled on Kansas' second drive. Daniels then threw an interception, ending the Jayhawks' third drive early in the second quarter.Luke Grimm said he and Daniels read different coverages, but Daniels took the blame.“Luke read the defense perfectly," Daniels said. "That play was on me. I have to give props to the DB for making that play.”Neal gave the Jayhawks a 14-0 lead in the second quarter on a 1-yard scamper, capping a seven-play, 85-yard drive.Mello Dotson put Kansas up 20-0 with an interception return. He stepped in front of a pass on the right sideline and raced 33 yards untouched. The extra point caromed off the upright.“At the beginning of that play, the quarterback was staring down his receiver,” Dotson said. “He gave him a sign to run the out route. I saw the quarterback give him that sign and I knew the ball was coming my way.”Daniels then hit Grimm with a 58-yard touchdown strike to extend the lead to 27-0, vindicating Daniels.“I just had to forget the (bad) play and make sure my next throw was the right throw.”Hishaw's 1-yard run with 4 seconds left in the half made it 34-0.<h2>The takeaway</h2>Lindenwood saw the difference between the two levels of Division I in the trenches. The Lions averaged just 3.5 yards per play, compared to 8.2 yards per play for Kansas. Kansas will need to address the turnovers on offense as the quality of opponent ramps up next week.<h2>Up next</h2>Lindenwood: Hosts Central Arkansas on Saturday, Sept. 7.Kansas: At Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 7.

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