We're joined by Fort Hays State women's soccer coach Tyson John, volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins and football coach Chris Brown.

Tiger Talk takes place Wednesday's at 12:15 p.m. at the Robbins Center on the Fort Hays State University campus.

<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (August 28, 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=wty3p-16b7bd7-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>We're joined by Fort Hays State women's soccer coach Tyson John, volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins and football coach Chris Brown.Tiger Talk takes place Wednesday's at 12:15 p.m. at the Robbins Center on the Fort Hays State University campus.

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk (August 28, 2024)

Wednesday, August 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
11:30am
 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pm

Thursday, August 29
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Angelo State, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Lindenwood, 5:30pm

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

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

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

Wednesday, August 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
11:30am
 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pmThursday, August 29
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Angelo State, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Lindenwood, 5:30pmFriday, 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

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

CLEVELAND (AP) — After four months and a lengthy rain delay, there's a second team sitting atop the AL Central.

Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer and Kansas City moved into a tie for first with Cleveland by beating the Guardians 6-1 on Tuesday night in a game delayed more than two hours by rain.

The Royals, who lost 106 games last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games.

“That’s our goal, to win the division," Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly nothing is decided. We got a month-plus to go, but we like the way we’re playing. Our guys are super competitive. They don’t back down from anything and this is what a pennant race should be.”

Cleveland had led the division since April 14 — 154 days — before dropping the first three games in this series, which concludes with a matinee Wednesday. The Guardians have lost nine of 12 and are just 17-21 since the break.

Cleveland had a nine-game lead on June 26. It's gone now.

“For me, it’s about the end of the season,” first-year manager Stephen Vogt said. "It doesn’t matter how you get there. What matters is that we do get there. Yeah, if you want to look back at the standings, you have a big lead that’s early in the season, that’s why you play 162 games.

“There’s nothing that says in this final stretch that we don’t go on a run. There’s nothing that says we don’t do it again. So you can’t look at the standings and worry about where you are on any given day. You’ve got to wait one day at a time, look where you are at the end of the season and then see where it lands.”

DeJong connected in the second inning off Gavin Williams (2-7), and the Royals tacked on three runs in the seventh off Scott Barlow on RBI singles by Maikel Garcia and Michael Massey, to go along with a wild pitch.

James McArthur (5-5) struck out four in two innings, and the Royals' solid bullpen closed with five perfect innings following the rain delay. The Guardians were held to just three hits.

Kansas City's win came with a minor scare.

All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got hit on the right hand by a pitch from Pedro Avila in the seventh inning. Witt grabbed his right hand in pain, but the majors' leader in average, hits and runs stayed in the game and ripped a double in the ninth.

Quatraro said Witt got hit on the right middle finger. In the clubhouse, Witt indicated to reporters he was OK.

Cleveland was coming to bat in the bottom of the fifth — and three outs from making the game official — when the ballpark's grounds crew rolled out the tarp at 8:06 p.m. to cover the infield before the rain hit.

When it finally came and lightning raced across the sky above Progressive Field, fans retreated for protection in the concourses. The game was delayed for 2 hours, 14 minutes before resuming at 10:20 p.m. with few thousand die-hards on hand.

DeJong, who came over in a trade with the last-place White Sox in July, said the Royals killed time during the delay by playing video games in the clubhouse. He said All-Star catcher Salvado Perez even tried to learn to play chess.

DeJong said he quickly recognized the Royals have a special group.

“Watching them from the outside in, you saw they got their core pieces," he said. "They got starting pitching. They got Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt, so it’s a great combo right there to build a team around.

“It’s nice to have those guys, but we have depth and guys who can play all over. A lot of guys are contributing from a lot of different angles and a lot of things are going our way.”

Royals starter Michael Lorenzen left in the second after straining his left hamstring while covering first base. Quatraro said Lorenzen will return to Kansas City on Wednesday to undergo imaging tests.

“We think it’s mild, but doubtful he’ll be able to pitch in five days,” Quatraro said. “We’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”

Royals: OF Hunter Renfroe (strained right hamstring) continues to undergo treatment and Quatraro said the hope is “to get him back out there as quickly as we can.” Renfroe was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday after his leg tightened against Philadelphia.

Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) threw three simulated innings in a live batting practice against minor leaguers before the game. Cobb is eligible to come off the injured list on Sunday. Vogt said the team is still determining whether to have him go on a minor league rehab assignment.

Guardians RHP Tanner Bibee (10-6, 3.46 ERA) starts the series finale against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.23 ERA), who is 7-0 with a 2.40 ERA in 10 starts since June 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724838207128.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong watches his home run in the second inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong watches his home run in the second inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — After four months and a lengthy rain delay, there's a second team sitting atop the AL Central.The Royals have run down the Guardians.Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer and Kansas City moved into a tie for first with Cleveland by beating the Guardians 6-1 on Tuesday night in a game delayed more than two hours by rain.The Royals, who lost 106 games last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games.“That’s our goal, to win the division," Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly nothing is decided. We got a month-plus to go, but we like the way we’re playing. Our guys are super competitive. They don’t back down from anything and this is what a pennant race should be.”Cleveland had led the division since April 14 — 154 days — before dropping the first three games in this series, which concludes with a matinee Wednesday. The Guardians have lost nine of 12 and are just 17-21 since the break.Cleveland had a nine-game lead on June 26. It's gone now.“For me, it’s about the end of the season,” first-year manager Stephen Vogt said. "It doesn’t matter how you get there. What matters is that we do get there. Yeah, if you want to look back at the standings, you have a big lead that’s early in the season, that’s why you play 162 games.“There’s nothing that says in this final stretch that we don’t go on a run. There’s nothing that says we don’t do it again. So you can’t look at the standings and worry about where you are on any given day. You’ve got to wait one day at a time, look where you are at the end of the season and then see where it lands.”DeJong connected in the second inning off Gavin Williams (2-7), and the Royals tacked on three runs in the seventh off Scott Barlow on RBI singles by Maikel Garcia and Michael Massey, to go along with a wild pitch.James McArthur (5-5) struck out four in two innings, and the Royals' solid bullpen closed with five perfect innings following the rain delay. The Guardians were held to just three hits.Kansas City's win came with a minor scare.All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got hit on the right hand by a pitch from Pedro Avila in the seventh inning. Witt grabbed his right hand in pain, but the majors' leader in average, hits and runs stayed in the game and ripped a double in the ninth.Quatraro said Witt got hit on the right middle finger. In the clubhouse, Witt indicated to reporters he was OK.Cleveland was coming to bat in the bottom of the fifth — and three outs from making the game official — when the ballpark's grounds crew rolled out the tarp at 8:06 p.m. to cover the infield before the rain hit.When it finally came and lightning raced across the sky above Progressive Field, fans retreated for protection in the concourses. The game was delayed for 2 hours, 14 minutes before resuming at 10:20 p.m. with few thousand die-hards on hand.DeJong, who came over in a trade with the last-place White Sox in July, said the Royals killed time during the delay by playing video games in the clubhouse. He said All-Star catcher Salvado Perez even tried to learn to play chess.DeJong said he quickly recognized the Royals have a special group.“Watching them from the outside in, you saw they got their core pieces," he said. "They got starting pitching. They got Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt, so it’s a great combo right there to build a team around.“It’s nice to have those guys, but we have depth and guys who can play all over. A lot of guys are contributing from a lot of different angles and a lot of things are going our way.”Royals starter Michael Lorenzen left in the second after straining his left hamstring while covering first base. Quatraro said Lorenzen will return to Kansas City on Wednesday to undergo imaging tests.“We think it’s mild, but doubtful he’ll be able to pitch in five days,” Quatraro said. “We’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: OF Hunter Renfroe (strained right hamstring) continues to undergo treatment and Quatraro said the hope is “to get him back out there as quickly as we can.” Renfroe was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday after his leg tightened against Philadelphia.Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) threw three simulated innings in a live batting practice against minor leaguers before the game. Cobb is eligible to come off the injured list on Sunday. Vogt said the team is still determining whether to have him go on a minor league rehab assignment.UP NEXTGuardians RHP Tanner Bibee (10-6, 3.46 ERA) starts the series finale against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.23 ERA), who is 7-0 with a 2.40 ERA in 10 starts since June 22.

⚾ Royals catch Guardians atop AL Central after win in rain delayed game

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22SCHUYLER%20DIXON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football Writer</a>

Kansas City receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kadarius-toney">Kadarius Toney</a>&nbsp;and Tennessee cornerback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/caleb-farley">Caleb Farley</a>, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, were among the cuts Tuesday as teams trimmed their rosters for the regular season.

Toney, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bradberry-zappe-toney-collins-edwards-adf38d186419ddd013d5bc3417644834">figured to be on the roster bubble</a>, was on his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later.

A person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press about the move with Toney. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't revealed Toney's status.

Teams had to cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90. Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on practice squads that allow up to 17 players, including a spot allocated for the International Player Pathway Program.

Injuries shortened both of Toney's first two seasons, and he was traded to the Chiefs during his second year with the Giants. The 25-year-old never displayed his dynamic playmaking skills consistently, but did have a big role in the first of the two Super Bowl rings he got with the Chiefs.

In a three-minute span in the fourth quarter of Kansas City’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia in Super Bowl 57, Toney made two monumental plays. First, he caught a 5-yard TD pass that gave the Chiefs a 28-27 lead. Then, he returned a punt 65 yards to the Eagles 5-yard line to set up another TD.

But Toney couldn’t build off that success. He struggled last season, was inactive from Week 15 through the playoffs and sat out when the Chiefs finished their repeat against San Francisco.

Kansas City added veteran wideout Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round to go with Rashee Rice. The Chiefs also have Skyy Moore, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson.

The Titans drafted Farley out of Virginia Tech after he was the first player from a major college to opt out of the 2020 season because of the pandemic. Farley was drafted weeks after a second surgery to repair a back injury from college.

Farley started just twice as injuries limited him to 12 games over his first two seasons. Farley had another back procedure in 2023.

The 25-year-old never played last season. The Titans kept him on the physically unable to perform list after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-caleb-farley-explosion-titans-father-604e51b82f1d1f11fdc9f32a4075f98d">his father was killed last August</a>&nbsp;in an explosion that destroyed Farley’s home in North Carolina.

San Francisco's initial roster is missing a big piece with holdout All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams remaining on the reserve/did not report list as he seeks a new deal. Star receiver Brandon Aiyuk is on the roster but has refused to practice unless he gets a new contract or is traded.

Jacksonville released eight-year veteran quarterback C.J. Beathard with an injury designation, presumably clearing the way for Mac Jones to back up Trevor Lawrence. Jones started 42 games over the past three seasons with New England after the Patriots drafted him in the first round in 2021.

Receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster was cut by the Chiefs after re-signing with them following his release by the Patriots this month.

The Chiefs added a tight end in a trade with Dallas, getting Peyton Hendershot and sending a conditional seventh-round pick in 2026 to the Cowboys. After a promising rookie season as an undrafted free agent, Henderson had an injury-filled second season in Dallas in 2023.

The Cowboys put CeeDee Lamb on the commissioner exempt list a day after the All-Pro receiver agreed to a $136 million, four-year contract extension that ended his preseason-long holdout. Lamb signed the contract Tuesday.

The move allowed the Cowboys to put offensive lineman Chuma Edoga on the 53-man roster for a day. Lamb would take the place of Edoga, who would go on injured reserve and be eligible to return sooner than four weeks.

The Minnesota Vikings kept recovering tight end T.J. Hockenson on the physically unable to perform list, meaning the two-time Pro Bowler must miss at least the first four games. Hockenson is working through the final stage of his rehabilitation after tearing an ACL against Detroit last Dec. 24.

The Vikings waived safety Lewis Cine, the final pick of the first round two years ago in the first draft directed by general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Cine badly broke his leg on special teams in a game early in his rookie year and never made much traction on the depth chart last season. He played a total of 10 defensive snaps in two seasons.

As expected, Cleveland placed star running back Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to recover from two surgeries last year. The club is optimistic Chubb will play this season.

The Browns released running back D’Onta Foreman, who overcame a scary neck injury in training camp. With Nyheim Hines on the non-football injury list, the Browns currently have only Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. at running back.

Washington released veteran receiver Martavis Bryant, who is in his second season of trying to end a long hiatus from the NFL. The oft-suspended 32-year-old spent most of last season on Dallas' practice squad and could land in the same place with the Commanders, who signed him Aug. 13.

“Martavis getting here later, obviously, that certainly had a factor,” said first-year coach Dan Quinn, who was the Cowboys' defensive coordinator last season. “Proud of him for learning a good bit of the system to be ready to play.”

Green Bay waived kicker Anders Carlson a year after drafting him in the sixth round. He was supposed to replace Mason Crosby but had a disappointing rookie year. Greg Joseph is the only kicker on the roster.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dolphins-mike-white-thompson-c26516a2949bd2ec7254b510e9a4e6c0">Miami cut third-string quarterback Mike White</a>, who started seven games for the New York Jets in 2021-22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724795012758.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22SCHUYLER%20DIXON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football Writer</a>Kansas City receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kadarius-toney">Kadarius Toney</a>&nbsp;and Tennessee cornerback&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/caleb-farley">Caleb Farley</a>, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, were among the cuts Tuesday as teams trimmed their rosters for the regular season.Toney, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bradberry-zappe-toney-collins-edwards-adf38d186419ddd013d5bc3417644834">figured to be on the roster bubble</a>, was on his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later.A person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press about the move with Toney. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't revealed Toney's status.Teams had to cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90. Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on practice squads that allow up to 17 players, including a spot allocated for the International Player Pathway Program.Injuries shortened both of Toney's first two seasons, and he was traded to the Chiefs during his second year with the Giants. The 25-year-old never displayed his dynamic playmaking skills consistently, but did have a big role in the first of the two Super Bowl rings he got with the Chiefs.In a three-minute span in the fourth quarter of Kansas City’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia in Super Bowl 57, Toney made two monumental plays. First, he caught a 5-yard TD pass that gave the Chiefs a 28-27 lead. Then, he returned a punt 65 yards to the Eagles 5-yard line to set up another TD.But Toney couldn’t build off that success. He struggled last season, was inactive from Week 15 through the playoffs and sat out when the Chiefs finished their repeat against San Francisco.Kansas City added veteran wideout Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round to go with Rashee Rice. The Chiefs also have Skyy Moore, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson.The Titans drafted Farley out of Virginia Tech after he was the first player from a major college to opt out of the 2020 season because of the pandemic. Farley was drafted weeks after a second surgery to repair a back injury from college.Farley started just twice as injuries limited him to 12 games over his first two seasons. Farley had another back procedure in 2023.The 25-year-old never played last season. The Titans kept him on the physically unable to perform list after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-caleb-farley-explosion-titans-father-604e51b82f1d1f11fdc9f32a4075f98d">his father was killed last August</a>&nbsp;in an explosion that destroyed Farley’s home in North Carolina.San Francisco's initial roster is missing a big piece with holdout All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams remaining on the reserve/did not report list as he seeks a new deal. Star receiver Brandon Aiyuk is on the roster but has refused to practice unless he gets a new contract or is traded.Jacksonville released eight-year veteran quarterback C.J. Beathard with an injury designation, presumably clearing the way for Mac Jones to back up Trevor Lawrence. Jones started 42 games over the past three seasons with New England after the Patriots drafted him in the first round in 2021.Receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster was cut by the Chiefs after re-signing with them following his release by the Patriots this month.The Chiefs added a tight end in a trade with Dallas, getting Peyton Hendershot and sending a conditional seventh-round pick in 2026 to the Cowboys. After a promising rookie season as an undrafted free agent, Henderson had an injury-filled second season in Dallas in 2023.The Cowboys put CeeDee Lamb on the commissioner exempt list a day after the All-Pro receiver agreed to a $136 million, four-year contract extension that ended his preseason-long holdout. Lamb signed the contract Tuesday.The move allowed the Cowboys to put offensive lineman Chuma Edoga on the 53-man roster for a day. Lamb would take the place of Edoga, who would go on injured reserve and be eligible to return sooner than four weeks.The Minnesota Vikings kept recovering tight end T.J. Hockenson on the physically unable to perform list, meaning the two-time Pro Bowler must miss at least the first four games. Hockenson is working through the final stage of his rehabilitation after tearing an ACL against Detroit last Dec. 24.The Vikings waived safety Lewis Cine, the final pick of the first round two years ago in the first draft directed by general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.Cine badly broke his leg on special teams in a game early in his rookie year and never made much traction on the depth chart last season. He played a total of 10 defensive snaps in two seasons.As expected, Cleveland placed star running back Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to recover from two surgeries last year. The club is optimistic Chubb will play this season.The Browns released running back D’Onta Foreman, who overcame a scary neck injury in training camp. With Nyheim Hines on the non-football injury list, the Browns currently have only Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. at running back.Washington released veteran receiver Martavis Bryant, who is in his second season of trying to end a long hiatus from the NFL. The oft-suspended 32-year-old spent most of last season on Dallas' practice squad and could land in the same place with the Commanders, who signed him Aug. 13.“Martavis getting here later, obviously, that certainly had a factor,” said first-year coach Dan Quinn, who was the Cowboys' defensive coordinator last season. “Proud of him for learning a good bit of the system to be ready to play.”Green Bay waived kicker Anders Carlson a year after drafting him in the sixth round. He was supposed to replace Mason Crosby but had a disappointing rookie year. Greg Joseph is the only kicker on the roster.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dolphins-mike-white-thompson-c26516a2949bd2ec7254b510e9a4e6c0">Miami cut third-string quarterback Mike White</a>, who started seven games for the New York Jets in 2021-22.

🏈Kadarius Toney and Caleb Farley, 1st-rounders from 2021, let go on NFL roster cutdown day

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DAVE%20SKRETTA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer</a>

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All the talk is over in the Big 12. The preseason hype has hit and settled.

Now it's time for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-college-football-preview-79d12ff2e295b73c0b670db9cf1d4e6d">the new-look conference,</a>&nbsp;where longtime members Oklahoma and Texas have been replaced by Arizona State, Arizona, Utah and Colorado in the latest round of college football musical chairs, to prove its worth on the field.

The newcomers don't exactly have it easy out of the gate.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-state-kenny-dillingham-6d0a61c703199b0e40cd829eaf07788b">Start with the Sun Devils</a>, who open Saturday with perennially bowl-bound Wyoming, which won nine games a year ago. The Cowboys' season ended with a win over Toledo in the Arizona Bowl, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-football-brent-brennan-noah-fifita-509d99b83d1195f530559deb37cd5ee7">the No. 21 Wildcats call home</a>.

Arizona, meanwhile, gets a softer opening against New Mexico, then plays Northern Arizona the following week. But things get rough in a hurry with a trip to No. 18 Kansas State for a nonconference matchup against a new conference rival.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-big-12-top-25-ba794355b434bc7f7addb8d75eeb0bff">No. 12 Utah opens against Southern Utah</a>&nbsp;before it, like Arizona, gets a nonconference game against a Big 12 foe. In the Utes' case, it's Baylor, which is trying to bounce back from a three-win season but won 12 games just a few years ago.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/deion-sanders-colorado-100a3b14d45693578cb67a3921c3e4d2">Then there is Colorado</a>, which might attract the most attention of any newcomer not just because of their play — the Buffaloes won four games in their last season in the Pac-12 — but because of their high-profile coach. Deion Sanders is confident that they will be vastly improved this season, and they have a chance to prove it right away against North Dakota State.

The Bison may play at the Football Championship Subdivision level, but they've won fewer than 11 games only once in the past 12 years. During that stretch, they've beaten Big 12 schools Kansas State and Iowa State along with No. 13 Iowa of the Big Ten.

“They're good. They're really darned good,” Sanders said recently, “and I'm mad at (athletic director) Rick (George) right now for putting them on the schedule, to open up with them. Like, can you give me a layup or something? Those guys are wonderful."

The Bison played in five of the previous six FCS title games before losing in the semifinals last season.

“Their staff has always been amongst the best. Many people have matriculated from that staff to go to higher levels. Those kids play their butts off. They play tough. They don’t make many mistakes. They’re accustomed to winning,” Sanders said. “They don’t give a darned about being at home or on the road. That doesn’t faze them whatsoever.”

The quartet of newcomers — though Colorado is in fact returning the league after 13 years in the Pac 12 — aren't the only ones who face a challenge right away.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tcu-college-football-preview-da0b0c09b2b3056921eb021489c12ae3">TCU hits the road to face Stanford</a>, which is now a member of the ACC, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/west-virginia-season-preview-4fa690e81dc67f5b54d0d89049efc2ce">West Virginia has perhaps the toughest task</a>&nbsp;when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town Saturday night.

“I think the Penn State game is huge for us,” said Mountaineers coach Neal Brown, whose job was starting to come into question before they won nine games last season. “That's a regional rivalry, which I know that you're very entrenched in traditions. It's not a rivalry that's gone West Virginia's way very often. So that's a great opportunity for us.”

It's also a great opportunity for the Big 12 to beat one of the best programs in the expanded Big Ten.

“You're correct,” Brown said, “it's a big game for our league, and this new Big 12, without a couple schools that have been part of the Big 12 for a long time in that first weekend on a marquee stage, to show what kind of football we play in this league.”

There will be other chances for marquee nonconference wins, of course. Take next week: Iowa State plays No. 25 Iowa, No. 22 Kansas heads to Illinois and Colorado visits Nebraska in games against Big Ten foes; Arkansas visits No. 17 Oklahoma State and Mississippi State visits Arizona State in Big 12-SEC showdowns; and Cincinnati plays ACC rival Pittsburgh.

Yet there is something meaningful about winning in Week 1, both for West Virginia and the Big 12 as a conference.

“Whether it’s West Virginia or any other program in the Big 12 gets those kind of marquee wins, our brand will continue to grow,” Brown said, “and we’ve got to make some noise in the playoff. I think Commissioner (Brett) Yormark spoke about this: We’re the most competitive league. I would say we’re the deepest football league in the entire country. But we’ve got to go. TCU had a nice run (in 2022), but we’ve got to have more wins in the playoff once we get in.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724794767065.jpeg" alt="Colorado head coach Deion Sanders directs his team during the first half of an NCAA spring college football game Saturday, April 27, 2024, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)" />
 <figcaption>Colorado head coach Deion Sanders directs his team during the first half of an NCAA spring college football game Saturday, April 27, 2024, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DAVE%20SKRETTA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer</a>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All the talk is over in the Big 12. The preseason hype has hit and settled.Now it's time for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-college-football-preview-79d12ff2e295b73c0b670db9cf1d4e6d">the new-look conference,</a>&nbsp;where longtime members Oklahoma and Texas have been replaced by Arizona State, Arizona, Utah and Colorado in the latest round of college football musical chairs, to prove its worth on the field.The newcomers don't exactly have it easy out of the gate.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-state-kenny-dillingham-6d0a61c703199b0e40cd829eaf07788b">Start with the Sun Devils</a>, who open Saturday with perennially bowl-bound Wyoming, which won nine games a year ago. The Cowboys' season ended with a win over Toledo in the Arizona Bowl, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-football-brent-brennan-noah-fifita-509d99b83d1195f530559deb37cd5ee7">the No. 21 Wildcats call home</a>.Arizona, meanwhile, gets a softer opening against New Mexico, then plays Northern Arizona the following week. But things get rough in a hurry with a trip to No. 18 Kansas State for a nonconference matchup against a new conference rival.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-big-12-top-25-ba794355b434bc7f7addb8d75eeb0bff">No. 12 Utah opens against Southern Utah</a>&nbsp;before it, like Arizona, gets a nonconference game against a Big 12 foe. In the Utes' case, it's Baylor, which is trying to bounce back from a three-win season but won 12 games just a few years ago.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/deion-sanders-colorado-100a3b14d45693578cb67a3921c3e4d2">Then there is Colorado</a>, which might attract the most attention of any newcomer not just because of their play — the Buffaloes won four games in their last season in the Pac-12 — but because of their high-profile coach. Deion Sanders is confident that they will be vastly improved this season, and they have a chance to prove it right away against North Dakota State.The Bison may play at the Football Championship Subdivision level, but they've won fewer than 11 games only once in the past 12 years. During that stretch, they've beaten Big 12 schools Kansas State and Iowa State along with No. 13 Iowa of the Big Ten.“They're good. They're really darned good,” Sanders said recently, “and I'm mad at (athletic director) Rick (George) right now for putting them on the schedule, to open up with them. Like, can you give me a layup or something? Those guys are wonderful."The Bison played in five of the previous six FCS title games before losing in the semifinals last season.“Their staff has always been amongst the best. Many people have matriculated from that staff to go to higher levels. Those kids play their butts off. They play tough. They don’t make many mistakes. They’re accustomed to winning,” Sanders said. “They don’t give a darned about being at home or on the road. That doesn’t faze them whatsoever.”The quartet of newcomers — though Colorado is in fact returning the league after 13 years in the Pac 12 — aren't the only ones who face a challenge right away.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tcu-college-football-preview-da0b0c09b2b3056921eb021489c12ae3">TCU hits the road to face Stanford</a>, which is now a member of the ACC, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/west-virginia-season-preview-4fa690e81dc67f5b54d0d89049efc2ce">West Virginia has perhaps the toughest task</a>&nbsp;when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town Saturday night.“I think the Penn State game is huge for us,” said Mountaineers coach Neal Brown, whose job was starting to come into question before they won nine games last season. “That's a regional rivalry, which I know that you're very entrenched in traditions. It's not a rivalry that's gone West Virginia's way very often. So that's a great opportunity for us.”It's also a great opportunity for the Big 12 to beat one of the best programs in the expanded Big Ten.“You're correct,” Brown said, “it's a big game for our league, and this new Big 12, without a couple schools that have been part of the Big 12 for a long time in that first weekend on a marquee stage, to show what kind of football we play in this league.”There will be other chances for marquee nonconference wins, of course. Take next week: Iowa State plays No. 25 Iowa, No. 22 Kansas heads to Illinois and Colorado visits Nebraska in games against Big Ten foes; Arkansas visits No. 17 Oklahoma State and Mississippi State visits Arizona State in Big 12-SEC showdowns; and Cincinnati plays ACC rival Pittsburgh.Yet there is something meaningful about winning in Week 1, both for West Virginia and the Big 12 as a conference.“Whether it’s West Virginia or any other program in the Big 12 gets those kind of marquee wins, our brand will continue to grow,” Brown said, “and we’ve got to make some noise in the playoff. I think Commissioner (Brett) Yormark spoke about this: We’re the most competitive league. I would say we’re the deepest football league in the entire country. But we’ve got to go. TCU had a nice run (in 2022), but we’ve got to have more wins in the playoff once we get in.”

🏈New-look Big 12 ready to embark on a season of big expectations, enormous pressure to win

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to announce the selection of Dominick Dingle, Wichita Heights High School, and Garrett Michael, Sabetha High School, as the Head Coaches for the 52nd&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. 

The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game. Their selection is determined by a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and support staff. 

The 52nd&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas.

The West team will be led by Wichita Heights Head Coach Dominick Dingle. Coach Dingle is entering his 7th season at Wichita Heights High School, where he has compiled an overall record of 26-27. 

Prior to being named the Head Coach at Wichita Heights in 2018, Dingle spent ten seasons as the Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator at Garden City High School and one season as an assistant coach at Leavenworth High School.

“First, I would like to thank God for allowing me to be selected as the Head coach of the Shrine Bowl West team. I am honored and grateful that God continues to work exceedingly and abundantly in my life,” said Coach Dominick Dingle. “This opportunity is more than I could ever ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). I am truly blessed for the opportunity to serve a role in helping the Shriners and the Kansas Shrine Bowl continue to make a positive impact on the lives of so many young people in Kansas and around the world. I would also like to thank my family, Wichita Heights players, coaching staff, administration, and the entire Falcon Family. Without your continued support and dedication this opportunity to represent Wichita Heights in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl would not be possible. Westside!”

The 2025 East squad will be led by Garrett Michael of Sabetha High School. 

Coach Michael led the Sabetha program for 15 years as the Head Coach, compiling an overall record of 104-59. 

During his leadership, the Bluejays won back-to-back 3A state championships in 2017 and 2018, while also making back-to-back runs to the state semifinals in 2022 and 2023. Along with this past summer, Coach Michael previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl in 2018 as an assistant coach.

“The Kansas Shrine Bowl is #For The Kids! It’s a life-changing experience, because you're playing for a cause much bigger than yourself. The hospital kids have a spectacular view on life and their talents top the charts. When the world gives them setbacks, the Shriners gives them bounce backs,” said Coach Garrett Michael. “I’m so humbled and honored to be selected to participate in this great event. This is the pinnacle of high school football. My father was the East Shrine Bowl head coach in 1985, so this is a dream come true for me. I wouldn’t be able to serve in this role without my faith, family, our excellent players, our outstanding coaches and the wonderful community of Sabetha. I’m beyond excited for our 2025 Shrine Bowl players, to put on a show for the state of Kansas. Go East!”

The West holds the all-time series advantage with a 31-18-2 record after the East team ended a six-year drought with a 35-26 win during the 51st&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The East will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time since 2015 and 2016.

“We are excited to have Coach Dingle and Coach Michael leading our teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “Not only are these two men great football coaches, but they are exceptional leaders and genuinely great people. They will not only do a great job coaching our all-star football teams, but they are perfect advocates for the bigger purpose and mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

To learn more about the Kansas Shrine Bowl and related events visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>.

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s Hospital. Since 1974, nearly $4 million has been sent to Shriners&nbsp;Children’s thanks to the supporters of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. 

Shriners Children’s is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children’s is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. 

Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients’ ability to pay.

Kansas Shrine Bowl The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to announce the selection of Dominick Dingle, Wichita Heights High School, and Garrett Michael, Sabetha High School, as the Head Coaches for the 52nd&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game. Their selection is determined by a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and support staff. The 52nd&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724772822201.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The West team will be led by Wichita Heights Head Coach Dominick Dingle. Coach Dingle is entering his 7th season at Wichita Heights High School, where he has compiled an overall record of 26-27. Prior to being named the Head Coach at Wichita Heights in 2018, Dingle spent ten seasons as the Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator at Garden City High School and one season as an assistant coach at Leavenworth High School.“First, I would like to thank God for allowing me to be selected as the Head coach of the Shrine Bowl West team. I am honored and grateful that God continues to work exceedingly and abundantly in my life,” said Coach Dominick Dingle. “This opportunity is more than I could ever ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). I am truly blessed for the opportunity to serve a role in helping the Shriners and the Kansas Shrine Bowl continue to make a positive impact on the lives of so many young people in Kansas and around the world. I would also like to thank my family, Wichita Heights players, coaching staff, administration, and the entire Falcon Family. Without your continued support and dedication this opportunity to represent Wichita Heights in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl would not be possible. Westside!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724772859542.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 2025 East squad will be led by Garrett Michael of Sabetha High School. Coach Michael led the Sabetha program for 15 years as the Head Coach, compiling an overall record of 104-59. During his leadership, the Bluejays won back-to-back 3A state championships in 2017 and 2018, while also making back-to-back runs to the state semifinals in 2022 and 2023. Along with this past summer, Coach Michael previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl in 2018 as an assistant coach.“The Kansas Shrine Bowl is #For The Kids! It’s a life-changing experience, because you're playing for a cause much bigger than yourself. The hospital kids have a spectacular view on life and their talents top the charts. When the world gives them setbacks, the Shriners gives them bounce backs,” said Coach Garrett Michael. “I’m so humbled and honored to be selected to participate in this great event. This is the pinnacle of high school football. My father was the East Shrine Bowl head coach in 1985, so this is a dream come true for me. I wouldn’t be able to serve in this role without my faith, family, our excellent players, our outstanding coaches and the wonderful community of Sabetha. I’m beyond excited for our 2025 Shrine Bowl players, to put on a show for the state of Kansas. Go East!”The West holds the all-time series advantage with a 31-18-2 record after the East team ended a six-year drought with a 35-26 win during the 51st&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The East will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time since 2015 and 2016.“We are excited to have Coach Dingle and Coach Michael leading our teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “Not only are these two men great football coaches, but they are exceptional leaders and genuinely great people. They will not only do a great job coaching our all-star football teams, but they are perfect advocates for the bigger purpose and mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”To learn more about the Kansas Shrine Bowl and related events visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>. The Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s Hospital. Since 1974, nearly $4 million has been sent to Shriners&nbsp;Children’s thanks to the supporters of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Shriners Children’s is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children’s is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients’ ability to pay.

🏈 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl head coaches announced

Tuesday, August 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
5:00pm

Tuesday, August 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
5:00pmWednesday, August 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
11:30am
 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pmThursday, August 29
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Angelo State, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Lindenwood, 5:30pmFriday, 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

CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.

The Royals won the day game 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.

In Game 2, Perez hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Pedro Avila.

The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.

Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland's lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the break.

The Guardians, who have led the division since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.

Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez's shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.

José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland's star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.

Perez's homer in the fifth came one pitch after he caught a break.

He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor's glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.

With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.

Tumpane made the same call in the sixth, and this time Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis was ejected for arguing on behalf of reliever Pedro Avila.

Rookie Daniel Schneemann homered in the second game for Cleveland.

In the opener, Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers.

The All-Star shortstop came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.

It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt.

“He's always present,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He doesn't care what he's done prior or what he's going to do tomorrow. He's going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby's a special player.”

MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals in Game 1.

John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.

Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland in the opener. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.

Royals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith's back issue has “been lingering for a while.”

Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) didn't have any problems while throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He's scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday. Cobb was acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco.

Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724722422214.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.The Royals won the day game 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.In Game 2, Perez hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Pedro Avila.The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland's lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the break.The Guardians, who have led the division since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez's shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland's star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.Perez's homer in the fifth came one pitch after he caught a break.He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor's glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.Tumpane made the same call in the sixth, and this time Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis was ejected for arguing on behalf of reliever Pedro Avila.Rookie Daniel Schneemann homered in the second game for Cleveland.In the opener, Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers.The All-Star shortstop came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt.“He's always present,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He doesn't care what he's done prior or what he's going to do tomorrow. He's going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby's a special player.”MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals in Game 1.John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland in the opener. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith's back issue has “been lingering for a while.”Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) didn't have any problems while throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He's scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday. Cobb was acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco.UP NEXTGuardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.

⚾ Salvador Perez hits grand slam as Royals sweep Guardians

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday, reuniting with a veteran wide receiver who helped Kansas City win the Super Bowl two years ago just one day before all NFL teams must reach the 53-player roster limit.

Smith-Schuster was back in his familiar No. 9 jersey for practice as temperatures in Kansas City approached triple digits.

Smith-Schuster was released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City in 2022, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns. It ended with a trip to the Super Bowl, where Smith-Schuster caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over the Eagles.

“(Linebacker) Nick Bolton was saying he was getting treatment on the table today and said, ‘That voice is familiar,’ and looked up and he was like, ‘What’s up brother!'” Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said of Smith-Schuster. “I hear he's a great player. He and Pat (Mahomes) have great chemistry. He'll be a key addition for us.”

The Chiefs had one of the least-productive wide receiver groups in the NFL last season, when they beat the 49ers for their second straight title. They tried to rectify it by signing Marquise Brown in free agency and drafting Xavier Worthy in the first round, but Brown's availability for the start of the season is in question after he dislocated his shoulder in the preseason.

The Chiefs open the regular season against the Ravens on Sept. 5 in a rematch of the AFC championship game.

They still have Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago, but he's been dealing with legal problems in Texas. At this point, it does not appear an NFL suspension will occur before the season, but it could be handed down eventually.

Justin Watson, Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman also are likely to make the team when rosters are trimmed Tuesday, but that leaves a seventh wide receiver spot available. Kadarius Toney has dealt with penalties, mental mistakes and dropped passes in his time in Kansas City, while Justyn Ross has been unable to seize the job when given chances in the preseason.

Smith-Schuster would provide another veteran presence in an otherwise young wide receiver room. He's caught 430 passes for 5,048 yards and 30 touchdowns during seven seasons in the league, the first five of them spent with Pittsburgh.

The 27-year-old's best season was 2018, when he made the Pro Bowl with 111 catches for 1,426 yards and seven scores.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday, reuniting with a veteran wide receiver who helped Kansas City win the Super Bowl two years ago just one day before all NFL teams must reach the 53-player roster limit.Smith-Schuster was back in his familiar No. 9 jersey for practice as temperatures in Kansas City approached triple digits.Smith-Schuster was released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City in 2022, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns. It ended with a trip to the Super Bowl, where Smith-Schuster caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over the Eagles.“(Linebacker) Nick Bolton was saying he was getting treatment on the table today and said, ‘That voice is familiar,’ and looked up and he was like, ‘What’s up brother!'” Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said of Smith-Schuster. “I hear he's a great player. He and Pat (Mahomes) have great chemistry. He'll be a key addition for us.”The Chiefs had one of the least-productive wide receiver groups in the NFL last season, when they beat the 49ers for their second straight title. They tried to rectify it by signing Marquise Brown in free agency and drafting Xavier Worthy in the first round, but Brown's availability for the start of the season is in question after he dislocated his shoulder in the preseason.The Chiefs open the regular season against the Ravens on Sept. 5 in a rematch of the AFC championship game.They still have Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago, but he's been dealing with legal problems in Texas. At this point, it does not appear an NFL suspension will occur before the season, but it could be handed down eventually.Justin Watson, Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman also are likely to make the team when rosters are trimmed Tuesday, but that leaves a seventh wide receiver spot available. Kadarius Toney has dealt with penalties, mental mistakes and dropped passes in his time in Kansas City, while Justyn Ross has been unable to seize the job when given chances in the preseason.Smith-Schuster would provide another veteran presence in an otherwise young wide receiver room. He's caught 430 passes for 5,048 yards and 30 touchdowns during seven seasons in the league, the first five of them spent with Pittsburgh.The 27-year-old's best season was 2018, when he made the Pro Bowl with 111 catches for 1,426 yards and seven scores.

🏈 Chiefs sign wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster to provide veteran depth ahead of roster cuts

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

HAYS – Fort Hays State
head football coach Chris Brown was mum Monday when asked who will start at
quarterback when the Tigers open the 2024 season Thursday night at home against
No. 24 Angelo State.

“You’ll see QB one on
snap one and uh you’ll probably see the other one come in as well.”

Brown made the comments
at his <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/856c892e-7be5-4fed-b5e6-7a2040ffd1b5">first weekly news conference</a> of the season.

“There’s a good chance
we kind of know who it is but we don’t want to throw it out there yest because
they’re both pretty darn good and they’re both still competing for that job.”

Jack Dawson started all
11 games last season as a redshirt sophomore and was named All-MIAA Third Team
after passing for 2,832 yards which ranked 17th in Division II and was the
sixth most passing yards in a season at FHSU.

Dawson has been pushed
by redshirt sophomore Caleb Heavner who appeared in three games last season.

Brown hinted that both
could play on Thursday.

“It just kind of depends
on how the game is going but we’ll figure out snap one and that will be our
guy.” Brown said. “We still got a lot of competition going on there right now.”

The Tigers and Rams
kickoff Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724756219036.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State quarterback Jack Dawson attempts a pass last season (FHSU Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State quarterback Jack Dawson attempts a pass last season (FHSU Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostHAYS – Fort Hays State
head football coach Chris Brown was mum Monday when asked who will start at
quarterback when the Tigers open the 2024 season Thursday night at home against
No. 24 Angelo State.“You’ll see QB one on
snap one and uh you’ll probably see the other one come in as well.”Brown made the comments
at his <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/856c892e-7be5-4fed-b5e6-7a2040ffd1b5">first weekly news conference</a> of the season.“There’s a good chance
we kind of know who it is but we don’t want to throw it out there yest because
they’re both pretty darn good and they’re both still competing for that job.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724756296244.png" alt="Fort Hays State quarterback Caleb Heaver looks to pass the ball vs. Northeastern State Thursday, August 31, 2023 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State quarterback Caleb Heaver looks to pass the ball vs. Northeastern State Thursday, August 31, 2023 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)</figcaption>
 </figure>Jack Dawson started all
11 games last season as a redshirt sophomore and was named All-MIAA Third Team
after passing for 2,832 yards which ranked 17th in Division II and was the
sixth most passing yards in a season at FHSU.Dawson has been pushed
by redshirt sophomore Caleb Heavner who appeared in three games last season.Brown hinted that both
could play on Thursday.“It just kind of depends
on how the game is going but we’ll figure out snap one and that will be our
guy.” Brown said. “We still got a lot of competition going on there right now.”The Tigers and Rams
kickoff Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Field.

🏈 Brown quiet on starting QB vs. Angelo State

Fort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, wide receiver Trevor Watts and linebacker John Johnson spoke to the media Monday before the Tigers kick off the 2024 season Thursday against Angelo State.

Hays PostFort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, wide receiver Trevor Watts and linebacker John Johnson spoke to the media Monday before the Tigers kick off the 2024 season Thursday against Angelo State.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hUz1u_Xdg0U?si=YinfEIU07xWH2R1d" 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/BBaypFJU1fY?si=Js6AUEqDvpw147Of" 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/ekgoPGWNbZQ?si=YFZ6GX7TN_AyUfH8" 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 

CLEVELAND (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. homered leading off the eighth inning to break a tie as the Kansas City Royals pulled closer to Cleveland in the AL Central with a 4-3 victory over the Guardians in the opener of a day-night doubleheader Monday.

Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers for his 27th homer of the season — and his 11th in 34 games since the All-Star break.

He came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.

It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt, who leads the majors in average (.347), hits (181) and runs (112).

Witt's homer was just the third run Gaddis has given up at home this season.

“He impacts the game as good as anybody in this game,” Cleveland catcher Austin Hedges said of Witt. “So you got to be real smart with him. You've got to make pitches. You've got to execute pitches. And if you make a mistake, he always takes his ‘A’ swing. There’s a reason he’s hitting (nearly) .350.”

MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals, who pulled within two games of the first-place Guardians. Cleveland has led the division since April 14.

It was the first of seven games over the next 10 days between the Guardians and Royals.

Logan Allen was recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start Game 2 for Cleveland against Royals right-hander Alec Marsh.

Erceg extended his scoreless streak to 15 1/3 innings.

“I'm glad we got him,” Quatraro said. “That's why we got him.”

Kansas City starter Cole Ragans was lifted while leading 3-2 in the fifth inning because of cramping in his left calf and hamstring.

Ragans issued a leadoff walk and then was replaced by closer James McArthur, who got two outs before intentionally walking Josh Naylor.

Rookie Jhonkensy Noel followed with a shot toward the corner in left. Melendez raced across the grass and was able to snag it with a headfirst catch before sliding across the warning track to save at least two runs.

“As an outfielder, you have to feel like you can get to anything,” Melendez said. “That's what goes through my head any time a ball is in the air towards me. I'm glad it was able to hang up in the air a little longer.”

Melendez's 17th homer gave the Royals a 3-2 lead in the fourth.

Vinnie Pasquantino reached when Cleveland shortstop Tyler Freeman couldn't corral his pop to shallow left and Salvador Perez singled. Melendez then lined an 0-1 pitch off the railing just above the right-field wall.

Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland and pitched one inning. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724708308796.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. homered leading off the eighth inning to break a tie as the Kansas City Royals pulled closer to Cleveland in the AL Central with a 4-3 victory over the Guardians in the opener of a day-night doubleheader Monday.Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers for his 27th homer of the season — and his 11th in 34 games since the All-Star break.He came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt, who leads the majors in average (.347), hits (181) and runs (112).“He's always present,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He doesn't care what he's done prior or what he's going to do tomorrow. He's going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby's a special player.”Witt's homer was just the third run Gaddis has given up at home this season.“He impacts the game as good as anybody in this game,” Cleveland catcher Austin Hedges said of Witt. “So you got to be real smart with him. You've got to make pitches. You've got to execute pitches. And if you make a mistake, he always takes his ‘A’ swing. There’s a reason he’s hitting (nearly) .350.”MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals, who pulled within two games of the first-place Guardians. Cleveland has led the division since April 14.It was the first of seven games over the next 10 days between the Guardians and Royals.Logan Allen was recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start Game 2 for Cleveland against Royals right-hander Alec Marsh.John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.Erceg extended his scoreless streak to 15 1/3 innings.“I'm glad we got him,” Quatraro said. “That's why we got him.”Kansas City starter Cole Ragans was lifted while leading 3-2 in the fifth inning because of cramping in his left calf and hamstring.Ragans issued a leadoff walk and then was replaced by closer James McArthur, who got two outs before intentionally walking Josh Naylor.Rookie Jhonkensy Noel followed with a shot toward the corner in left. Melendez raced across the grass and was able to snag it with a headfirst catch before sliding across the warning track to save at least two runs.“As an outfielder, you have to feel like you can get to anything,” Melendez said. “That's what goes through my head any time a ball is in the air towards me. I'm glad it was able to hang up in the air a little longer.”Melendez's 17th homer gave the Royals a 3-2 lead in the fourth.Vinnie Pasquantino reached when Cleveland shortstop Tyler Freeman couldn't corral his pop to shallow left and Salvador Perez singled. Melendez then lined an 0-1 pitch off the railing just above the right-field wall.Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland and pitched one inning. The right-hander hadn't started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith's back issue has “been lingering for a while.”Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) didn't have any problems while throwing a bullpen session Sunday. He's scheduled to throw live batting practice Tuesday. Cobb was acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco.UP NEXTGuardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.

⚾ Royals edge Guardians in 1st game of Monday doubleheader

COSTA RICA – Fort Hays State junior forward Montserrat Diaz&nbsp;was selected to the 2024 Costa Rica national team assembled for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, set to begin in late August in Columbia. Diaz has played 39 matches over two seasons at FHSU, helping the Tigers to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.

Diaz has 21 points in her career at FHSU, including nine goals, three assists, and five game-winning goals.

Pool play for the U-20 World Cup begins on August 31 and runs through September 8. Costa Rica will play its three pool play matches between September 2-8, set to face Netherlands (Sept. 2), Korea DPR (Sept. 5), and Argentina (Sept. 8). The first two matches will be at Estadio Pascual Guerrero in Cali, Columbia and the match vs. Argentina will be at Estadio El Techo in Bogota, Columbia. Should Costa Rica advance past pool play, Round of 16 bracket play begins on September 11 and runs all the way through the final on September 22.

Visit the FIFA U20 World Cup website link above for game times and coverage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724700084868.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCOSTA RICA – Fort Hays State junior forward Montserrat Diaz&nbsp;was selected to the 2024 Costa Rica national team assembled for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, set to begin in late August in Columbia. Diaz has played 39 matches over two seasons at FHSU, helping the Tigers to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.Diaz has 21 points in her career at FHSU, including nine goals, three assists, and five game-winning goals.Pool play for the U-20 World Cup begins on August 31 and runs through September 8. Costa Rica will play its three pool play matches between September 2-8, set to face Netherlands (Sept. 2), Korea DPR (Sept. 5), and Argentina (Sept. 8). The first two matches will be at Estadio Pascual Guerrero in Cali, Columbia and the match vs. Argentina will be at Estadio El Techo in Bogota, Columbia. Should Costa Rica advance past pool play, Round of 16 bracket play begins on September 11 and runs all the way through the final on September 22.Visit the FIFA U20 World Cup website link above for game times and coverage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ FHSU's Diaz named to Costa Rica U-20 World Cup team

Monday, August 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 11:30pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm

Monday, August 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 11:30pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pmTuesday, August 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
5:00pmWednesday, August 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians,
11:30am
 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 12:15pmThursday, August 29
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Angelo State, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Lindenwood, 5:30pmFriday, 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, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Schwarber had two hits and three RBIs and Garrett Stubbs had a career-best four hits to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to an 11-3 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

After Garrett Stubbs opened the third inning with a triple into the right-field corner,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/phillies/video/seth-lugo-in-play-run-s-to-kyle-schwarber?t=t143-default-vtp">Schwarber hit a double to right-center</a>. Alec Bohm's two-out hit scored Schwarber, giving the Phillies a 2-0 lead. Schwarber added RBIs on a bases-loaded grounder in the fourth and a single that capped a three-run sixth inning.

Philadelphia scored five in the eighth, highlighted by Bohm’s two-run single and Nick Castellanos’ two-run homer, his 17th of the season.

Needing a home run to complete the cycle, Stubbs singled in the eighth and was hit by a pitch in the ninth.

“I’ve never been mad to get a single, but sure as (heck) was trying to hit a homer,” Stubbs said. “(Today) was about as good as you can ever feel. Obviously, it helped us get to 11 runs and kind of cruise toward the last few innings.”

Kolby Allard (2-0) worked five innings, allowing two runs on eight hits with five strikeouts.

“The changeup was really good today,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “The first two guys get on in the first inning and he works himself out of it. That tells me something about him.”

Kansas City’s Seth Lugo (14-8) allowed six runs and 11 hits.

“A lot of contact today, so give them credit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But it was a very unfortunate run for Seth because a lot of that contact wasn’t hard.”

Lugo has surrendered at least four runs in five of his last seven starts.

“It’s been a tough run of luck,” Quatraro said. “But he’s throwing the ball fine.”

The Phillies went 7 for 14 with runners-in-scoring position.

“It was pretty frustrating,” Lugo said. “I felt like I was making pitches. I wanted a little bit more swing-and-miss, but that’s a good lineup.”

After matching a season high with 18 hits in Saturday's 11-2 win, the Phillies banged out 16 hits on Sunday and 45 hits while outscoring the Royals 26-12 to take two games of the three-game series.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Schwarber had two hits and three RBIs and Garrett Stubbs had a career-best four hits to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to an 11-3 win over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.After Garrett Stubbs opened the third inning with a triple into the right-field corner,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/phillies/video/seth-lugo-in-play-run-s-to-kyle-schwarber?t=t143-default-vtp">Schwarber hit a double to right-center</a>. Alec Bohm's two-out hit scored Schwarber, giving the Phillies a 2-0 lead. Schwarber added RBIs on a bases-loaded grounder in the fourth and a single that capped a three-run sixth inning.Philadelphia scored five in the eighth, highlighted by Bohm’s two-run single and Nick Castellanos’ two-run homer, his 17th of the season.Needing a home run to complete the cycle, Stubbs singled in the eighth and was hit by a pitch in the ninth.“I’ve never been mad to get a single, but sure as (heck) was trying to hit a homer,” Stubbs said. “(Today) was about as good as you can ever feel. Obviously, it helped us get to 11 runs and kind of cruise toward the last few innings.”Kolby Allard (2-0) worked five innings, allowing two runs on eight hits with five strikeouts.“The changeup was really good today,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “The first two guys get on in the first inning and he works himself out of it. That tells me something about him.”Kansas City’s Seth Lugo (14-8) allowed six runs and 11 hits.“A lot of contact today, so give them credit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But it was a very unfortunate run for Seth because a lot of that contact wasn’t hard.”Lugo has surrendered at least four runs in five of his last seven starts.“It’s been a tough run of luck,” Quatraro said. “But he’s throwing the ball fine.”The Phillies went 7 for 14 with runners-in-scoring position.“It was pretty frustrating,” Lugo said. “I felt like I was making pitches. I wanted a little bit more swing-and-miss, but that’s a good lineup.”After matching a season high with 18 hits in Saturday's 11-2 win, the Phillies banged out 16 hits on Sunday and 45 hits while outscoring the Royals 26-12 to take two games of the three-game series.“We got our approaches back,” Thomson said. “Our at-bats the entire series were really good.”Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia and MJ Melendez hit solo homers for the Royals.Tyler Gentry made his major league debut for the Royals, flying out as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning.Position player Garrett Hampson pitched a hitless ninth for Kansas City.TRANSACTIONSPhillies recalled Allard from Triple-A Lehigh Valley and optioned RHP Max Lazar to Lehigh Valley.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals OF Hunter Renfroe placed on 10-day injured list with a right hamstring strain. OF Tyler Gentry recalled from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTPhillies: RHP Zack Wheeler (12-6, 2.73 ERA) gets the start for their home series opener against Houston's Justin Verlander (3-3, 3.92) on Monday.