By ANDREW SELIGMAN AP Sports Writer

CHICAGO (AP) — Russell Wilson threw for three touchdowns, Wil Lutz kicked a tiebreaking field goal with just under two minutes remaining and the Denver Broncos bounced back from one of the most lopsided losses in franchise history by rallying to beat the Chicago Bears 31-28 on Sunday.

Denver (1-3) was coming off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-broncos-dolphins-tyreek-hill-tua-tagovailoa-7b63c4ac5c48e0f4156a8a4574de5c72">a 70-20 blowout by Miami</a>&nbsp;that was franchise’s second-worst loss of the Super Bowl era, behind only a 51-0 pounding by the Raiders in 1967.

Lutz's 51-yarder capped a comeback from a 28-7, third-quarter deficit. Kareem Jackson then intercepted Justin Fields with the Bears (0-4) near midfield.

Chicago looked like it was headed toward an easy win, leading by 21 after Fields threw a 2-yard touchdown to Khalil Herbert late in the third quarter. Instead, the Bears dropped their 14th in a row since a Week 7 win at New England last season.

The Bears had a chance to break a 28-all tie late in the fourth quarter. Chicago opted to go for it on fourth-and-1 at the 18 rather than kick a field goal, and Herbert got stopped.

Fields threw for a career-high 335 yards and four touchdowns. He completed his first 16 passes and was 28 of 35.

Wilson threw a 4-yard TD to Brandon Johnson near the end of the third and a 13-yarder to Courtland Sutton early in the fourth to make it a seven-point game.

The Bears then had the ball near midfield when Nik Bonitto strip-sacked Fields. Jonathan Cooper recovered the fumble at the 35 and returned it for the tying touchdown.

Wilson hit Marvin Mims Jr. with a 48-yard pass to the 33 on the next play. The Broncos took the lead when Lutz kicked his field goal with 1:51 remaining, and Jackson sealed it with his interception. Fans showered the Bears with boos as the game ended.

Wilson threw for 223 yards. The nine-time Pro Bowler completed 21 of 28 passes

Jaleel McLaughlin ran for 72 yards and caught a touchdown pass for Denver.

DJ Moore caught eight passes for 131 yards and a touchdown for Chicago. Cole Kmet added 85 yards receiving and two TDs.

Herbert ran for 103 yards and caught a TD pass. But after getting blown out by Patrick Mahomes and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, the Bears came up short again.

Broncos: RB Javonte Williams (hip) exited the game.

Broncos: Host the New York Jets next Sunday.

Bears: Visit Washington on Thursday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696198954395.jpeg" alt="Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson passes as Chicago Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)" />
 <figcaption>Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson passes as Chicago Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANDREW SELIGMAN AP Sports WriterCHICAGO (AP) — Russell Wilson threw for three touchdowns, Wil Lutz kicked a tiebreaking field goal with just under two minutes remaining and the Denver Broncos bounced back from one of the most lopsided losses in franchise history by rallying to beat the Chicago Bears 31-28 on Sunday.Denver (1-3) was coming off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-broncos-dolphins-tyreek-hill-tua-tagovailoa-7b63c4ac5c48e0f4156a8a4574de5c72">a 70-20 blowout by Miami</a>&nbsp;that was franchise’s second-worst loss of the Super Bowl era, behind only a 51-0 pounding by the Raiders in 1967.Lutz's 51-yarder capped a comeback from a 28-7, third-quarter deficit. Kareem Jackson then intercepted Justin Fields with the Bears (0-4) near midfield.Chicago looked like it was headed toward an easy win, leading by 21 after Fields threw a 2-yard touchdown to Khalil Herbert late in the third quarter. Instead, the Bears dropped their 14th in a row since a Week 7 win at New England last season.The Bears had a chance to break a 28-all tie late in the fourth quarter. Chicago opted to go for it on fourth-and-1 at the 18 rather than kick a field goal, and Herbert got stopped.Fields threw for a career-high 335 yards and four touchdowns. He completed his first 16 passes and was 28 of 35.Wilson threw a 4-yard TD to Brandon Johnson near the end of the third and a 13-yarder to Courtland Sutton early in the fourth to make it a seven-point game.The Bears then had the ball near midfield when Nik Bonitto strip-sacked Fields. Jonathan Cooper recovered the fumble at the 35 and returned it for the tying touchdown.Wilson hit Marvin Mims Jr. with a 48-yard pass to the 33 on the next play. The Broncos took the lead when Lutz kicked his field goal with 1:51 remaining, and Jackson sealed it with his interception. Fans showered the Bears with boos as the game ended.Wilson threw for 223 yards. The nine-time Pro Bowler completed 21 of 28 passesJaleel McLaughlin ran for 72 yards and caught a touchdown pass for Denver.DJ Moore caught eight passes for 131 yards and a touchdown for Chicago. Cole Kmet added 85 yards receiving and two TDs.Herbert ran for 103 yards and caught a TD pass. But after getting blown out by Patrick Mahomes and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, the Bears came up short again.INJURIESBroncos: RB Javonte Williams (hip) exited the game.UP NEXTBroncos: Host the New York Jets next Sunday.Bears: Visit Washington on Thursday night.

🏈 Wilson throws 3 TDs, Broncos rally from 21 down to top Bears

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=football&amp;id=12576">BOX SCORE</a>

HAYS - Fort Hays State scored on all seven of their first half possessions, six of them touchdowns, and cruised to a 71-3 Homecoming win in front of 6,953 Saturday night at Lewis Field.

The Tigers (3-2) scored 30 points in the first quarter and led 47-0 at halftime as they picked up their 10th straight win over the Blue Tigers (0-5) who have now lost 30-straight games and 20-straight road contests.

It was the second straight home game the Tigers scored over 70 against Lincoln after a 72-0 win back in 2021.

The Tigers defense set the tone early when redshirt-freshman Jaxon Kolzow, who was making his first career start, intercepted a pass on the first play from scrimmage and returned it 29 yards to the Lincoln 31 yard line. FHSU scored their first touchdown four plays later on a on a two-yard Shane Watts run.

Jack Dawson connected with Jayden Horace on a 39-yard touchdown pass on the Tigers second possession pushing the lead to 14-0 a little over five minutes into the first quarter.

Travis Dixon hauled in a&nbsp;12-yard touchdown pass from Dawson on the third possession.

The Tigers blocked a punt on Lincoln's next possession which rolled out of the back of the endzone for safety. 

Horace caught his second touchdown pass with five seconds left in the quarter giving the Tigers a 30-0 lead.

FHSU added 17 points in the second quarter. Ja'Quan Tillis scored on a two-yard run, Jack Dawson a 28-yard run then Carson Arndt kicked a 27-yard field goal at time expired.

Redshirt-freshman Caleb Heavner started at quarterback in the third quarter and ripped off a 67-yard touchdown run on the Tigers second play.

Logan Heigele forced a fumble Lincoln's ensuing kick return which was scooped up by Michael Polley and returned 22-yards for a touchdown.&nbsp;Heigele would score on the next possession on a 61-yard touchdown pass from Heavner to push the lead to 68-0.

The teams traded field goals in the fourth quarter. Lincoln from 30-yards and FHSU from 29-yards off the foot of Arndt with 4:04 to play to round out the scoring.

The Tigers finished with a season-high 582 yards of total offense, to just 146 by Lincoln. Dawson completed 14-of-18 passes for 252 yards and three touchdowns to go along with a rushing score. Jayden Horace caught four passes for 91 and two touchdowns. Heavner went 3-of-3 through the air for 94 yards and a touchdown. He also led the Tigers in rushing with 68 yards on two attempts and a touchdown.

The Tigers gained 346 yards through the air and a season-high 236 on the ground.

Kaleb Pillow led had seven tackles and Parrish Terry had three tackles for loss to lead the defense.

Fort Hays State returns to MIAA play next week on the road at Missouri Southern. Game time is set for 2 p.m. next Saturday in Joplin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696135986622.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State wide receiver Jayden Horace (7) celebrates with Ryan Allen (11) after catching a touchdown pass in an NCAA football game against Lincoln in Hays, Kan., Sept. 30. 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jaxson Webb)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State wide receiver Jayden Horace (7) celebrates with Ryan Allen (11) after catching a touchdown pass in an NCAA football game against Lincoln in Hays, Kan., Sept. 30. 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jaxson Webb)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=football&amp;id=12576">BOX SCORE</a>HAYS - Fort Hays State scored on all seven of their first half possessions, six of them touchdowns, and cruised to a 71-3 Homecoming win in front of 6,953 Saturday night at Lewis Field.The Tigers (3-2) scored 30 points in the first quarter and led 47-0 at halftime as they picked up their 10th straight win over the Blue Tigers (0-5) who have now lost 30-straight games and 20-straight road contests.It was the second straight home game the Tigers scored over 70 against Lincoln after a 72-0 win back in 2021.<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/1629657441&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-lincoln-sep-30-2023" title="Chris Brown Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)</a></div></div>The Tigers defense set the tone early when redshirt-freshman Jaxon Kolzow, who was making his first career start, intercepted a pass on the first play from scrimmage and returned it 29 yards to the Lincoln 31 yard line. FHSU scored their first touchdown four plays later on a on a two-yard Shane Watts run.Jack Dawson connected with Jayden Horace on a 39-yard touchdown pass on the Tigers second possession pushing the lead to 14-0 a little over five minutes into the first quarter.Travis Dixon hauled in a&nbsp;12-yard touchdown pass from Dawson on the third possession.<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/1629657351&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-v-lincoln-sep-30-2023" title="Jack Dawson Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jack Dawson Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)</a></div></div>The Tigers blocked a punt on Lincoln's next possession which rolled out of the back of the endzone for safety. Horace caught his second touchdown pass with five seconds left in the quarter giving the Tigers a 30-0 lead.FHSU added 17 points in the second quarter. Ja'Quan Tillis scored on a two-yard run, Jack Dawson a 28-yard run then Carson Arndt kicked a 27-yard field goal at time expired.Redshirt-freshman Caleb Heavner started at quarterback in the third quarter and ripped off a 67-yard touchdown run on the Tigers second play.<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/1629657300&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/jaxson-kolzow-postgame-v-lincoln-sep-30-2023" title="Jaxson Kolzow Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jaxson Kolzow Postgame vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)</a></div></div>Logan Heigele forced a fumble Lincoln's ensuing kick return which was scooped up by Michael Polley and returned 22-yards for a touchdown.&nbsp;Heigele would score on the next possession on a 61-yard touchdown pass from Heavner to push the lead to 68-0.The teams traded field goals in the fourth quarter. Lincoln from 30-yards and FHSU from 29-yards off the foot of Arndt with 4:04 to play to round out the scoring.The Tigers finished with a season-high 582 yards of total offense, to just 146 by Lincoln. Dawson completed 14-of-18 passes for 252 yards and three touchdowns to go along with a rushing score. Jayden Horace caught four passes for 91 and two touchdowns. Heavner went 3-of-3 through the air for 94 yards and a touchdown. He also led the Tigers in rushing with 68 yards on two attempts and a touchdown.The Tigers gained 346 yards through the air and a season-high 236 on the ground.<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/1629657405&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/fort-hays-state-fb-highlights-v-lincoln-sept-30-2023" title="Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. Lincoln (Sept. 30, 2023)</a></div></div>Kaleb Pillow led had seven tackles and Parrish Terry had three tackles for loss to lead the defense.UP NEXTFort Hays State returns to MIAA play next week on the road at Missouri Southern. Game time is set for 2 p.m. next Saturday in Joplin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 Tigers cruise past Lincoln for Homecoming win

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The New York Yankees clinched their 31st straight winning season by beating the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.

They'd rather be clinching something more important.

But the chances of that evaporated long ago, when the Yankees scuffled so badly through the middle part of the season that many wondered whether they would finish with a losing record. With a 5-2 victory in which Frankie Montas got the win out of the bullpen in his season debut, the second-longest streak in major league history at least remained intact.

“I mean, we're going home tomorrow. That's inevitably kind of the takeaway from our season,” countered Yankees manager Aaron Boone, whose club has finished strong after floundering six games below .500 last month. "We expect to be playing in October and the fact that we're not going to be doing that beyond tomorrow is tough."

So much for celebrating a feel-good, come-from-behind win over the Royals.

Montas had surgery on his labrum in late February and spent all season working his way back, even though he will be a free agent after the season and easily could have called it a year. But the long hours of rehab work paid off when Montas walked out of the bullpen and proceeded to retire four hitters while allowing two hits and a walk.

“So many emotions going on,” he said after his first big league appearance since last October's AL Championship Series opener. “It was just like my first time pitching.”

Montas earned the win thanks in part to Gleyber Torres, who drove in a pair of runs during a three-run sixth inning. Oswaldo Cabrera, Everson Pereira and Estevan Florial also drove in runs for New York.

Clay Holmes pitched a perfect ninth for his 24th save in 27 chances.

“You know,” Boone said, “we've been through a lot this year and I'm super, super pleased with how these guys have shown up and continued to get after it day-in and day-out. I'm glad we're finishing this way, and playing with purpose, and playing with meaning, because that wasn't always the case."

Alec Marsh (3-9) replaced opener Steven Cruz and allowed three runs, six hits and three walks over 4 1/3 innings for Kansas City, which fell to 55-106 and matched the 2005 team for the most losses in a season in club history.

“I think it was just, maybe, the end of the season and trying to hype up that last outing, go out there and try to do too much,” Marsh said. “I did make some good pitches in some good times in big situations to limit. It could have been a lot worse.”

The Royals, who got their first 10 batters on base and score nine runs in a 12-5 rout the previous night, got off to another hot start on a steamy final night of September. Garcia opened the game with a single and later scored on Nelson Velázquez's single, and Salvador Perez added a homer in the third to give Kansas City a 3-0 lead.

The Yankees got two runs back against Marsh in the fourth before tying the game in the sixth on Florial's single. Collin Snider proceeded to walk DJ LeMahieu and Aaron Judge before Torres ripped a two-run single to give New York the final margin.

The Yankees' Carlos Rodón and pitching coach Matt Blake spent time talking Saturday after clashing on the mound the previous night. Rodón was in the midst of allowing all eight batters he faced to reach and eventually score in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-new-york-kansas-city-baseball-08a05d99dcd3e0be19eee2a6c499ec4c">a 12-5 loss</a>&nbsp;when Blake came out to talk to him. Rodón turned his back on Blake and gestured for him to return to the dugout.

“He’s been in the league for a while. We want him to go out and have a lot of success and behave in the right ways,” Blake said Saturday, “and you know, this is one were going to look back on and wish we had back.”

The Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. was thrown out trying to steal second, tying Atlanta's Ronald Acuna Jr. for the major league lead with 14. Witt needs one steal to become the fourth player in big league history with 50 in a season with at least 30 homers.

Yankees: To reinstate Montas (shoulder inflammation) from the injured list, OF Jasson Domínguez (elbow surgery) was moved to the 60-day list and RHP Randy Vásquez optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Royals OF Drew Waters left after the third inning with tightness in his left quad. He doubled in his only at-bat. ... Velázquez left the game after fouling a pitch a pitch off the top of his knee.

Yankees RHP Michael King (4-7, 2.50 ERA) will start the season finale against Royals RHP Zack Greinke (1-15, 5.18), who could be making his last start with Kansas City. The 39-year-old Greinke will be a free agent after finishing his 20th big league season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696127858563.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Nelson Velazquez, left, after hitting a home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Nelson Velazquez, left, after hitting a home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The New York Yankees clinched their 31st straight winning season by beating the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.They'd rather be clinching something more important.Like a playoff spot.But the chances of that evaporated long ago, when the Yankees scuffled so badly through the middle part of the season that many wondered whether they would finish with a losing record. With a 5-2 victory in which Frankie Montas got the win out of the bullpen in his season debut, the second-longest streak in major league history at least remained intact.“I mean, we're going home tomorrow. That's inevitably kind of the takeaway from our season,” countered Yankees manager Aaron Boone, whose club has finished strong after floundering six games below .500 last month. "We expect to be playing in October and the fact that we're not going to be doing that beyond tomorrow is tough."So much for celebrating a feel-good, come-from-behind win over the Royals.Montas had surgery on his labrum in late February and spent all season working his way back, even though he will be a free agent after the season and easily could have called it a year. But the long hours of rehab work paid off when Montas walked out of the bullpen and proceeded to retire four hitters while allowing two hits and a walk.“So many emotions going on,” he said after his first big league appearance since last October's AL Championship Series opener. “It was just like my first time pitching.”Montas earned the win thanks in part to Gleyber Torres, who drove in a pair of runs during a three-run sixth inning. Oswaldo Cabrera, Everson Pereira and Estevan Florial also drove in runs for New York.Clay Holmes pitched a perfect ninth for his 24th save in 27 chances.“You know,” Boone said, “we've been through a lot this year and I'm super, super pleased with how these guys have shown up and continued to get after it day-in and day-out. I'm glad we're finishing this way, and playing with purpose, and playing with meaning, because that wasn't always the case."Alec Marsh (3-9) replaced opener Steven Cruz and allowed three runs, six hits and three walks over 4 1/3 innings for Kansas City, which fell to 55-106 and matched the 2005 team for the most losses in a season in club history.“I think it was just, maybe, the end of the season and trying to hype up that last outing, go out there and try to do too much,” Marsh said. “I did make some good pitches in some good times in big situations to limit. It could have been a lot worse.”The Royals, who got their first 10 batters on base and score nine runs in a 12-5 rout the previous night, got off to another hot start on a steamy final night of September. Garcia opened the game with a single and later scored on Nelson Velázquez's single, and Salvador Perez added a homer in the third to give Kansas City a 3-0 lead.The Yankees got two runs back against Marsh in the fourth before tying the game in the sixth on Florial's single. Collin Snider proceeded to walk DJ LeMahieu and Aaron Judge before Torres ripped a two-run single to give New York the final margin.SMOOTHING THINGS OVERThe Yankees' Carlos Rodón and pitching coach Matt Blake spent time talking Saturday after clashing on the mound the previous night. Rodón was in the midst of allowing all eight batters he faced to reach and eventually score in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-new-york-kansas-city-baseball-08a05d99dcd3e0be19eee2a6c499ec4c">a 12-5 loss</a>&nbsp;when Blake came out to talk to him. Rodón turned his back on Blake and gestured for him to return to the dugout.“He’s been in the league for a while. We want him to go out and have a lot of success and behave in the right ways,” Blake said Saturday, “and you know, this is one were going to look back on and wish we had back.”ONE MORE SWIPE NEEDEDThe Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. was thrown out trying to steal second, tying Atlanta's Ronald Acuna Jr. for the major league lead with 14. Witt needs one steal to become the fourth player in big league history with 50 in a season with at least 30 homers.ROSTER MOVESYankees: To reinstate Montas (shoulder inflammation) from the injured list, OF Jasson Domínguez (elbow surgery) was moved to the 60-day list and RHP Randy Vásquez optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals OF Drew Waters left after the third inning with tightness in his left quad. He doubled in his only at-bat. ... Velázquez left the game after fouling a pitch a pitch off the top of his knee.UP NEXTYankees RHP Michael King (4-7, 2.50 ERA) will start the season finale against Royals RHP Zack Greinke (1-15, 5.18), who could be making his last start with Kansas City. The 39-year-old Greinke will be a free agent after finishing his 20th big league season.

⚾ Yankees clinch 31st straight winning season with victory over Royals

By JIM VERTUNO AP Sports Writer

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Jonathon Brooks and balance. Texas has been using both to put teams away through the first half of the season.

Brooks rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns as No. 3 Texas piled up more than 600 total yards in a 40-14 win over No. 24 Kansas, which lost standout quarterback Jalon Daniels in pregame warmups with back stiffness.

Quinn Ewers passed for 325 yards and ran 30 yards for the game's first score. Texas (5-0, 2-0 Big 12) also got another standout game from its defense, which has surrendered just three touchdowns in the past three games.

Brooks, who was behind freshman C.J. Baxter on the depth chart when the season started, now has three consecutive 100-yard rushing games and a team high six touchdowns. He averages 7.0 yards per carry.

“He is a home run hitter for us right now,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian.

Brooks' first touchdown came on a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TexasFootball/status/1708232596952363432?s=20">54-yard ru</a>&nbsp;n. His second came after Texas recovered a fourth-down fumble, putting the Longhorns ahead 26-14 late in the third quarter.

His only blemish Saturday was getting chased down from behind on a 67-yard run.

“That (defender) was fast,” Brooks said.

Texas finished with 336 yards rushing and 661 yards overall, and wore down Kansas (4-1, 1-1) in the second half. The Longhorns blew the game open in the fourth quarter with Ewer's touchdown pass to Adonai Mitchell and the quarterback's second touchdown run.

“We can run and pass,” Brooks said. “We just kept going back to (the run), breaking the other team's will and being really physical.”

Sarkisian said Texas is gaining confidence it can win with any game plan.

“We keep talking about being versatile and finding different ways,” Sarkisian said. “Championship teams get better during the season, I think that’s something we’ve done.”

Kansas was hamstrung by the unexpected loss to Daniels, the preseason Big 12 offensive player of the year, who was with the team at the start of warmups. But he didn't finish them, leaving the offense with backup Jason Bean. Kansas managed just 260 total yards.

“We tried to get him ready. We thought we could get him out there,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “It is what it is .... We just never got in sync."

Bean passed for 136 yards and a 58-yard touchdown to Trevor Wilson that pulled Kansas within six points early in the third quarter. But missing Daniels, the hero of Kansas' upset win here in double-overtime in 2021, turned the Jayhawks heavily reliant on a running game that struggled.

Daniels also missed the first game of the season with back problems. Texas hasn't faced an opponent's starting quarterback since beating Alabama and Jalen Milroe in the second game of the season.

Leipold said he would not speculate on how big of a difference Daniels could have made if healthy.

“That's not fair to Jason, it's not fair to Jalon and honestly, it's not fair to this football team,” Leipold said.

Kansas: Despite giving up the big rushing yards, the Jayhawks' defense played pretty well in the Texas heat in the mid-90s for three quarters. Two Texas drives ended near the endzone with Longhorns field goals instead of touchdowns, and Texas missed two more kicks. Kansas even snagged the first interception thrown by Ewers this season, That kept the Jayhawks in the game, but the constant pounding from Brooks and Baxter in the fourth quarter finished them off.

Texas: The Longhorns are showing tremendous balance on offense and did not punt. But a problem is emerging in the kicking game that has cost points when game are still close. Kicker Bert Auburn is 9 of 14 this season and has struggled from long range with three misses beyond 40 yards. It hasn't hurt Texas yet, but the misses kept Kansas in the game well into the second half.

“We had our sputters when we approached the red area," Sarkisian said. “The common theme is the way we finished.”

Another double-digit win should keep Texas comfortably in the top three heading into next week's showdown with Oklahoma.

Texas does have a key injury to watch this week. Tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders left the game in the first half after limping off the field with a hurt left leg. He has two 100-yard receiving games this season and is a key part of the offense. Sarkisian said the initial prognosis was no bone or ligament injury, but it's unknown yet if Sanders can return in time to play Oklahoma.

“We are hopeful we will get him back. It’s how does he respond?” Sarkisian said.

Kansas’ first touchdown was a wild one. Bean bolted into open field on an option keeper before he was drilled by Texas safety Jalon Catalon. The ball popped out and bounced right to the Jayhawks’ Daniel Hinshaw, who was trailing the play. It was a simple scoop and score for Hishaw, who finished off the final 18 yards to the end zone.

Kansas hosts new Big 12 member Central Florida on Saturday.

Texas meets border rival No. 14 Oklahoma in Dallas on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696126984844.jpeg" alt="Kansas quarterback Jason Bean throws against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas quarterback Jason Bean throws against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM VERTUNO AP Sports WriterAUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Jonathon Brooks and balance. Texas has been using both to put teams away through the first half of the season.Brooks rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns as No. 3 Texas piled up more than 600 total yards in a 40-14 win over No. 24 Kansas, which lost standout quarterback Jalon Daniels in pregame warmups with back stiffness.Quinn Ewers passed for 325 yards and ran 30 yards for the game's first score. Texas (5-0, 2-0 Big 12) also got another standout game from its defense, which has surrendered just three touchdowns in the past three games.Brooks, who was behind freshman C.J. Baxter on the depth chart when the season started, now has three consecutive 100-yard rushing games and a team high six touchdowns. He averages 7.0 yards per carry.“He is a home run hitter for us right now,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian.Brooks' first touchdown came on a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TexasFootball/status/1708232596952363432?s=20">54-yard ru</a>&nbsp;n. His second came after Texas recovered a fourth-down fumble, putting the Longhorns ahead 26-14 late in the third quarter.His only blemish Saturday was getting chased down from behind on a 67-yard run.“That (defender) was fast,” Brooks said.Texas finished with 336 yards rushing and 661 yards overall, and wore down Kansas (4-1, 1-1) in the second half. The Longhorns blew the game open in the fourth quarter with Ewer's touchdown pass to Adonai Mitchell and the quarterback's second touchdown run.“We can run and pass,” Brooks said. “We just kept going back to (the run), breaking the other team's will and being really physical.”Sarkisian said Texas is gaining confidence it can win with any game plan.“We keep talking about being versatile and finding different ways,” Sarkisian said. “Championship teams get better during the season, I think that’s something we’ve done.”Kansas was hamstrung by the unexpected loss to Daniels, the preseason Big 12 offensive player of the year, who was with the team at the start of warmups. But he didn't finish them, leaving the offense with backup Jason Bean. Kansas managed just 260 total yards.“We tried to get him ready. We thought we could get him out there,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “It is what it is .... We just never got in sync."Bean passed for 136 yards and a 58-yard touchdown to Trevor Wilson that pulled Kansas within six points early in the third quarter. But missing Daniels, the hero of Kansas' upset win here in double-overtime in 2021, turned the Jayhawks heavily reliant on a running game that struggled.Daniels also missed the first game of the season with back problems. Texas hasn't faced an opponent's starting quarterback since beating Alabama and Jalen Milroe in the second game of the season.Leipold said he would not speculate on how big of a difference Daniels could have made if healthy.“That's not fair to Jason, it's not fair to Jalon and honestly, it's not fair to this football team,” Leipold said.THE TAKEAWAYKansas: Despite giving up the big rushing yards, the Jayhawks' defense played pretty well in the Texas heat in the mid-90s for three quarters. Two Texas drives ended near the endzone with Longhorns field goals instead of touchdowns, and Texas missed two more kicks. Kansas even snagged the first interception thrown by Ewers this season, That kept the Jayhawks in the game, but the constant pounding from Brooks and Baxter in the fourth quarter finished them off.Texas: The Longhorns are showing tremendous balance on offense and did not punt. But a problem is emerging in the kicking game that has cost points when game are still close. Kicker Bert Auburn is 9 of 14 this season and has struggled from long range with three misses beyond 40 yards. It hasn't hurt Texas yet, but the misses kept Kansas in the game well into the second half.“We had our sputters when we approached the red area," Sarkisian said. “The common theme is the way we finished.”POLL POSITIONAnother double-digit win should keep Texas comfortably in the top three heading into next week's showdown with Oklahoma.INJURY CONCERNTexas does have a key injury to watch this week. Tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders left the game in the first half after limping off the field with a hurt left leg. He has two 100-yard receiving games this season and is a key part of the offense. Sarkisian said the initial prognosis was no bone or ligament injury, but it's unknown yet if Sanders can return in time to play Oklahoma.“We are hopeful we will get him back. It’s how does he respond?” Sarkisian said.WILD PLAYKansas’ first touchdown was a wild one. Bean bolted into open field on an option keeper before he was drilled by Texas safety Jalon Catalon. The ball popped out and bounced right to the Jayhawks’ Daniel Hinshaw, who was trailing the play. It was a simple scoop and score for Hishaw, who finished off the final 18 yards to the end zone.UP NEXT:Kansas hosts new Big 12 member Central Florida on Saturday.Texas meets border rival No. 14 Oklahoma in Dallas on Saturday.

🏈 No. 3 Texas beats No. 24 Kansas with Jayhawks QB Jalon Daniels out

Fort Hays State (2-2, 1-2 MIAA) vs.&nbsp;Lincoln (0-4) Saturday, September 30 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State will take on Lincoln University in the annual Homecoming football game on Saturday night at Lewis Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. It is a non-conference game this year as Lincoln moves to the Great Lakes Valley Conference next year. FHSU enters the game at 2-2, while Lincoln is 0-4.

Fort Hays State is 7-4 in head coach Chris Brown's&nbsp;tenure on Homecoming. The Tigers won six straight Homecoming games from 2015 to 2021 until the streak was snapped last year at the hands of Washburn. All seven wins have been against different opponents and this is the first time the Tigers are playing Lincoln for Homecoming on Brown's watch.

FHSU holds a 10-2 advantage in the all-time series with Lincoln. FHSU has won nine straight games against LU going back to the 1985 season. FHSU went 6-0 against Lincoln in MIAA play from 2011 to 2022.

FHSU won last year's meeting between the teams in Jefferson City by a score of 51-14. After the Blue Tigers scored the game's first touchdown in the first quarter, FHSU reeled off 48 straight points before Lincoln scored again with about nine minutes remaining in the game. FHSU has scored at least 50 points against Lincoln in the last three meetings, including 72 in a shutout win the last time the teams met in Hays (2021).

Though Lincoln is playing all but one MIAA team this year (Pittsburg State), they are a non-conference game for all schools in the conference. The Blue Tigers have not won a game since the 2019 season when they defeated Northeastern State at home on October 19. Lincoln has dropped 31 straight contests since. Lincoln will still be a conference opponent for all MIAA schools in every other sport it competes in this year except for football.

For FHSU on offense, Jack Dawson&nbsp;has thrown for 1,024 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He averages 257 passing yards per game and has went past the 250-yard mark in three of four games this season. Trevor Watts and Jayden Horace&nbsp;are tied for the team lead in receiving yards with 243 each, and Horace is tied with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryson-smith/7640">Bryson Smith</a>&nbsp;for the most receiving touchdowns each with three.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/travis-dixon/7511">Travis Dixon</a>&nbsp;leads the Tigers in rushing with 119 yards for the season.

On the defensive side of the ball, John Johnson&nbsp;leads the Tigers in tackles with 31. He and fellow inside linebacker Makel Williams&nbsp;have combined for 59 tackles this season and rank first and second in tackles on the team. Jason Wallace&nbsp;has a team-high 2.0 sacks, while Myles Menges and Parrish Terry&nbsp;are tied for the team lead in tackles for loss with 3.0 each. Williams is the team leader in interceptions with two. The team has seven interceptions for the season, which ties for eighth-most in NCAA Division II.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695928678429.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State (2-2, 1-2 MIAA) vs.&nbsp;Lincoln (0-4) Saturday, September 30 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State will take on Lincoln University in the annual Homecoming football game on Saturday night at Lewis Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. It is a non-conference game this year as Lincoln moves to the Great Lakes Valley Conference next year. FHSU enters the game at 2-2, while Lincoln is 0-4.Fort Hays State is 7-4 in head coach Chris Brown's&nbsp;tenure on Homecoming. The Tigers won six straight Homecoming games from 2015 to 2021 until the streak was snapped last year at the hands of Washburn. All seven wins have been against different opponents and this is the first time the Tigers are playing Lincoln for Homecoming on Brown's watch.FHSU holds a 10-2 advantage in the all-time series with Lincoln. FHSU has won nine straight games against LU going back to the 1985 season. FHSU went 6-0 against Lincoln in MIAA play from 2011 to 2022.FHSU won last year's meeting between the teams in Jefferson City by a score of 51-14. After the Blue Tigers scored the game's first touchdown in the first quarter, FHSU reeled off 48 straight points before Lincoln scored again with about nine minutes remaining in the game. FHSU has scored at least 50 points against Lincoln in the last three meetings, including 72 in a shutout win the last time the teams met in Hays (2021).Though Lincoln is playing all but one MIAA team this year (Pittsburg State), they are a non-conference game for all schools in the conference. The Blue Tigers have not won a game since the 2019 season when they defeated Northeastern State at home on October 19. Lincoln has dropped 31 straight contests since. Lincoln will still be a conference opponent for all MIAA schools in every other sport it competes in this year except for football.For FHSU on offense, Jack Dawson&nbsp;has thrown for 1,024 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He averages 257 passing yards per game and has went past the 250-yard mark in three of four games this season. Trevor Watts and Jayden Horace&nbsp;are tied for the team lead in receiving yards with 243 each, and Horace is tied with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryson-smith/7640">Bryson Smith</a>&nbsp;for the most receiving touchdowns each with three.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/travis-dixon/7511">Travis Dixon</a>&nbsp;leads the Tigers in rushing with 119 yards for the season.On the defensive side of the ball, John Johnson&nbsp;leads the Tigers in tackles with 31. He and fellow inside linebacker Makel Williams&nbsp;have combined for 59 tackles this season and rank first and second in tackles on the team. Jason Wallace&nbsp;has a team-high 2.0 sacks, while Myles Menges and Parrish Terry&nbsp;are tied for the team lead in tackles for loss with 3.0 each. Williams is the team leader in interceptions with two. The team has seven interceptions for the season, which ties for eighth-most in NCAA Division II.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎙️ LISTEN - FHSU hosts Lincoln for Homecoming

SEARCY, Ark. - The Fort Hays State men's soccer team roared to victory on Saturday at the Stevens Soccer Complex, securing a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over the Harding Bisons.

In this pivotal encounter, Fort Hays State (3-5-1, 2-1-1) and Harding (3-6-1, 1-3-0) battled fiercely from the opening whistle. The Tigers left no doubt about their intentions, displaying their brand of dominant soccer that has become synonymous with the Fort Hays State Tigers. The Tigers' control of the match was evident from the very beginning. With precision and flair, they orchestrated their attacks, creating numerous opportunities to put the ball in the back of the net.

The defining moment came in the 74th minute when Anders Sandsto, donning the Fort Hays State jersey with pride, showcased his scoring prowess. Elias Ovelar Semenuik, delivered an exquisite cross from the right flank. Sandsto unleashed a left-footed strike that found the lower left corner of the net. This goal, meticulously crafted, provided the Tigers with a lead they would not relinquish.

Harding, determined to claw their way back, mounted a spirited effort. However, they encountered a resilient Fort Hays State defense that refused to yield. Scott Pengelly&nbsp;had his first start in goal of the season&nbsp;and saved two cruical Harding shots on the day.

When the dust settled, the scoreboard bore witness to Fort Hays State's triumph, with a final score of 1-0. &nbsp;The Tigers' offense outshone their opponents, recording 21 shots compared to Harding's 12. With this win, the Tigers improved their season record to 3-5-1, including an impressive conference record of 2-1-1. Harding, displaying admirable resilience, now holds a record of 3-6-1 overall, with a conference record of 1-3-0.

As we look ahead, the Tigers will carry the momentum from this victory into their next battles, fully aware that every point earned brings them closer to their goal in the 2023-24 Men's Soccer season. The Tigers will face Northeastern State next Saturday (Oct. 7) where they look to improve their GAC record to 3-1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696103687908.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Anders Santo (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Anders Santo (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsSEARCY, Ark. - The Fort Hays State men's soccer team roared to victory on Saturday at the Stevens Soccer Complex, securing a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over the Harding Bisons.In this pivotal encounter, Fort Hays State (3-5-1, 2-1-1) and Harding (3-6-1, 1-3-0) battled fiercely from the opening whistle. The Tigers left no doubt about their intentions, displaying their brand of dominant soccer that has become synonymous with the Fort Hays State Tigers. The Tigers' control of the match was evident from the very beginning. With precision and flair, they orchestrated their attacks, creating numerous opportunities to put the ball in the back of the net.The defining moment came in the 74th minute when Anders Sandsto, donning the Fort Hays State jersey with pride, showcased his scoring prowess. Elias Ovelar Semenuik, delivered an exquisite cross from the right flank. Sandsto unleashed a left-footed strike that found the lower left corner of the net. This goal, meticulously crafted, provided the Tigers with a lead they would not relinquish.Harding, determined to claw their way back, mounted a spirited effort. However, they encountered a resilient Fort Hays State defense that refused to yield. Scott Pengelly&nbsp;had his first start in goal of the season&nbsp;and saved two cruical Harding shots on the day.When the dust settled, the scoreboard bore witness to Fort Hays State's triumph, with a final score of 1-0. &nbsp;The Tigers' offense outshone their opponents, recording 21 shots compared to Harding's 12. With this win, the Tigers improved their season record to 3-5-1, including an impressive conference record of 2-1-1. Harding, displaying admirable resilience, now holds a record of 3-6-1 overall, with a conference record of 1-3-0.As we look ahead, the Tigers will carry the momentum from this victory into their next battles, fully aware that every point earned brings them closer to their goal in the 2023-24 Men's Soccer season. The Tigers will face Northeastern State next Saturday (Oct. 7) where they look to improve their GAC record to 3-1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Tiger men victorious in Arkansas

MILFORD LAKE - The Hays High boys and girls cross country teams both finished third at the Bob Schmoeckel Invitational hosted by Junction City at Milford Lake. Hays returned with 11 total medalists between the varsity and junior varsity races.

Elijah McCullough was the boys individual champ, pacing the field at 16:40.80. Taevian Maupin finished 10th. Freshman Logan Leiker medaled at 19th.

McCullough won the race by nearly three seconds.

The girls were led by Arely Maldonado in 6th place with a 19:53. Three more runners medaled. Julia Zadina placed 14th, Brenlynn Albers 15th and Addison Otte 20th.

Salina Central's Katelyn Rupe won the race in a course record time of 17:05.90. She won by a full minute ahead her own teammate.

The Indians will next compete in the Salina Central Invitational held at Bill Burk Park on Saturday, October 7th.

Hays PostMILFORD LAKE - The Hays High boys and girls cross country teams both finished third at the Bob Schmoeckel Invitational hosted by Junction City at Milford Lake. Hays returned with 11 total medalists between the varsity and junior varsity races.Elijah McCullough was the boys individual champ, pacing the field at 16:40.80. Taevian Maupin finished 10th. Freshman Logan Leiker medaled at 19th.McCullough won the race by nearly three seconds.The girls were led by Arely Maldonado in 6th place with a 19:53. Three more runners medaled. Julia Zadina placed 14th, Brenlynn Albers 15th and Addison Otte 20th.Salina Central's Katelyn Rupe won the race in a course record time of 17:05.90. She won by a full minute ahead her own teammate.The Indians will next compete in the Salina Central Invitational held at Bill Burk Park on Saturday, October 7th.

🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Hays High cross country third, McCullough champion

The Coyotes play McPherson in their final game against teams from the Kessinger Division on Saturday. Kickoff is 1 p.m. on Bissell Field at JRI Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.

The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>.

Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a>

Radio coverage can be heard locally on KINA 910 AM/107.5 FM

The online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2.">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2.</a>

Tyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at 5:00 p.m.

KWU has won the last eight games including a 14-12 victory last season in McPherson. The Coyotes averaged 43.6 points in the seven games before last season's defensive duel. They have a 16-6 advantage since the 2001 season.. It's the 100th all-time meeting between the teams. KWU leads the all-time series 58-37-4.

The Coyotes enter the game having won their last two - 35-28 over McPherson two weeks ago at JRI Stadium and 24-14 over Bethel last week in North Newton. They scored 17 points in the second quarter against Bethel, led 17-14 at intermission and held the Threshers scoreless in the second half.

The offense has come around the last two weeks after a slow start. Quarterback Richard Lara was 28 of 42 passing (66.7 percent) for 340 yards, four touchdowns and one interception in the two contests. He had a huge game against Bethel going 19 of 29 for 232 yards and three touchdowns.

Nick Allsman is the top rusher on the season with 239 yards on 61 carries and two touchdowns. Tyler Boston has 204 yards on 57 tries and one touchdown. Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey has a team-best eight receptions while Luke Armstrong and Boston each have seven.

Defense has been KWU's forte. Opponents are averaging 17.2 points, 287 total yards - 157.2 passing and 129.8 rushing. The Coyotes have forced 11 turnovers, six fumbles and five interceptions.

Placekicker Talon Cope has been superb. He has made three of four field goals - the longest from 45 yards out last week - and is perfect on 13 extra point attempts.

The Bulldogs have been a surprise this season. They have won their last two games - 60-17 over Ottawa in Ottawa and 42-21 versus Avila last week in McPherson. The loss was to Saint Mary 36-32 September 9 in McPherson. They're 2-0 on the road this season.

McPherson's offense has been outstanding. The Bulldogs are averaging 43.8 points and 473.6 total yards that includes 289.4 passing.

Junior quarterback Tristan Szabo has had a hot hand through five games, completing 56 percent of his passes for 1,407 yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. He also has 179 yards rushing three more scores. Traven Lewis-Johnson and Alex Hill are the top receivers - Lewis-Johnson 19 receptions for 389 yards and Hill 15 for 209 yards. Each has four touchdowns.

Linebacker Marquis Willoughby has a team-best 49 tackles that include 6.5 for loss and has an interception. Nehemiah Figueroa has four interceptions. Opponents average 24.4 points and 333.6 yards.

The Bulldogs were 5-5 in last season but three of the losses were by one point along with the two-point setback against KWU.

"The defenses that we're playing are statistically very good so it's good to see the (offense) go out and perform. (The line) is not blowing assignments up front, we're taking care of the ball and we're protecting the quarterback. (McPherson) is going to drop back and pass 25, 30 times. We just need to make sure the quarterback is uncomfortable as possible and that relates to condensing the pocket which takes all the guys up front. (McPherson) is certainly tough, coach (Jeremiah) Fiscus does an excellent job down there. They have a very dynamic offense, honestly, and are very good at what they do. We expect a lot of shifts and motions and we need to make sure we're prepared. It will be a big challenge and we look forward to it."

The Coyotes and the entire Kansas Conference are idle October 7. Play resumes with a full slate of games October 14; KWU plays Bissell Division rival Avila at 1 p.m. in Kansas City, Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696089570140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Coyotes play McPherson in their final game against teams from the Kessinger Division on Saturday. Kickoff is 1 p.m. on Bissell Field at JRI Stadium at the Graves Family Sports Complex.<h2>LIVE COVERAGE</h2>The video stream of the game will be available online through the Coyote Sports Network at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan">www.kcacnetwork.com/kansaswesleyan</a>.Live Stats will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary">https://kwucoyotes.com/sidearmstats/football/summary</a>Radio coverage can be heard locally on KINA 910 AM/107.5 FMThe online stream is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2.">https://radio.securenetsystems.net/ce/kina2.</a>Tyler Henry will have the call with pregame starting at 5:00 p.m.<h2>RECORDS</h2>Kansas Wesleyan 3-2.McPherson 4-1<h2>THE SERIES</h2>KWU has won the last eight games including a 14-12 victory last season in McPherson. The Coyotes averaged 43.6 points in the seven games before last season's defensive duel. They have a 16-6 advantage since the 2001 season.. It's the 100th all-time meeting between the teams. KWU leads the all-time series 58-37-4.<h2>KANSAS WESLEYAN AT A GLANCE</h2>The Coyotes enter the game having won their last two - 35-28 over McPherson two weeks ago at JRI Stadium and 24-14 over Bethel last week in North Newton. They scored 17 points in the second quarter against Bethel, led 17-14 at intermission and held the Threshers scoreless in the second half.The offense has come around the last two weeks after a slow start. Quarterback Richard Lara was 28 of 42 passing (66.7 percent) for 340 yards, four touchdowns and one interception in the two contests. He had a huge game against Bethel going 19 of 29 for 232 yards and three touchdowns.Nick Allsman is the top rusher on the season with 239 yards on 61 carries and two touchdowns. Tyler Boston has 204 yards on 57 tries and one touchdown. Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey has a team-best eight receptions while Luke Armstrong and Boston each have seven.Defense has been KWU's forte. Opponents are averaging 17.2 points, 287 total yards - 157.2 passing and 129.8 rushing. The Coyotes have forced 11 turnovers, six fumbles and five interceptions.Placekicker Talon Cope has been superb. He has made three of four field goals - the longest from 45 yards out last week - and is perfect on 13 extra point attempts.<h2>McPHERSON AT A GLANCE</h2>The Bulldogs have been a surprise this season. They have won their last two games - 60-17 over Ottawa in Ottawa and 42-21 versus Avila last week in McPherson. The loss was to Saint Mary 36-32 September 9 in McPherson. They're 2-0 on the road this season.McPherson's offense has been outstanding. The Bulldogs are averaging 43.8 points and 473.6 total yards that includes 289.4 passing.Junior quarterback Tristan Szabo has had a hot hand through five games, completing 56 percent of his passes for 1,407 yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. He also has 179 yards rushing three more scores. Traven Lewis-Johnson and Alex Hill are the top receivers - Lewis-Johnson 19 receptions for 389 yards and Hill 15 for 209 yards. Each has four touchdowns.Linebacker Marquis Willoughby has a team-best 49 tackles that include 6.5 for loss and has an interception. Nehemiah Figueroa has four interceptions. Opponents average 24.4 points and 333.6 yards.The Bulldogs were 5-5 in last season but three of the losses were by one point along with the two-point setback against KWU.<h2>KWU COACH MATT MYERS</h2>"The defenses that we're playing are statistically very good so it's good to see the (offense) go out and perform. (The line) is not blowing assignments up front, we're taking care of the ball and we're protecting the quarterback. (McPherson) is going to drop back and pass 25, 30 times. We just need to make sure the quarterback is uncomfortable as possible and that relates to condensing the pocket which takes all the guys up front. (McPherson) is certainly tough, coach (Jeremiah) Fiscus does an excellent job down there. They have a very dynamic offense, honestly, and are very good at what they do. We expect a lot of shifts and motions and we need to make sure we're prepared. It will be a big challenge and we look forward to it."<h2>NEXT WEEK</h2>The Coyotes and the entire Kansas Conference are idle October 7. Play resumes with a full slate of games October 14; KWU plays Bissell Division rival Avila at 1 p.m. in Kansas City, Missouri.

Wesleyan faces McPherson in 100th meeting between teams Saturday

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus reviews last week's Chiefs win over the Bears and previews Sunday night's matchup with the Jets in New Jersey.

The Holthus Hotline airs Saturdays at 8:00 a.m. on 96.9, KFIX.

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus reviews last week's Chiefs win over the Bears and previews Sunday night's matchup with the Jets in New Jersey.The Holthus Hotline airs Saturdays at 8:00 a.m. on 96.9, KFIX.<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/1628635215%3Fsecret_token%3Ds-AnfY5evvI4M&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/holthus-hotline-with-voice-of-the-chiefs-mitch-holthus/s-AnfY5evvI4M" title="Holthus Hotline with Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Holthus Hotline with Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus</a></div></div>

🎧 Holthus Hotline with Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696044155232.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Oberlin 0 Hoxie 46Beloit 48 Phillipsburg 24St.Johns-Tipton 34 Osborn 82Ness city 42 Mackville 58Cunningham 52 Pawnee Heights 0

🏈 Friday night high school scoreboard (Sept. 29)

By Jonathan Zweygardt Hays Post

The short-handed TMP-Marian Monarchs hung tough for three
quarters Friday night but saw their longtime rival Russell pull away for a 26-6
victory at Shaffer Field in Russell.

The two teams opened the game playing to a scoreless draw through
the first quarter of action.

Russell (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 1-1 2A D-8) broke on to the
scoreboard first, scoring on a three-yard touchdown run by Brayden Suchy capping
off a 15—play 69-yard driver for a 6-0 lead with just over 11 minutes left in
the second quarter.

With the Monarchs (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 0-1 2A D-8) offense struggling
early, the defense provided the Monarchs only touchdown early in the second
quarter when Austin Gilbert hauled in his first career interception and
returned it for a 1-yard touchdown tying the game at six.

The Monarchs forced Russell into five turnovers, four of
them were interceptions.

After the game was tied at six at halftime, Russell’s first
drive of the second half stalled and then a punt pinned TMP deep in the shadow
of their own endzone.

On TMP’s next punt Russell broke through for a punt block
and returned the ball for an eight-yard touchdown putting Russell up 12-6
midway through the third quarter.

Russell scored two more fourth quarter touchdowns while the
Broncos held TMP’s offense in check and Russell earned their third straight victory over
TMP 26-6.

Russell outgained TMP 280 to 104. With the Monarchs
finishing with 74 yards on the ground. Peyton Schumacher finished with 42 rushing
and 30 passing yards with two interceptions.

Russell’s Mason threw for 114 yards and rushed for another
108 yards.

The Monarchs were without their leading rusher and two starting offensive linemen Friday night.

TMP hosts Phillipsburg next Friday night while Russell
travels to Ellsworth.

By Jonathan Zweygardt Hays PostThe short-handed TMP-Marian Monarchs hung tough for three
quarters Friday night but saw their longtime rival Russell pull away for a 26-6
victory at Shaffer Field in Russell.<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/1628946432&color=%233e0992&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/grant-stephenson-postgame-vs-russell-09-29-23" title="Grant Stephenson Postgame Vs Russell 09 - 29 - 23" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Grant Stephenson Postgame Vs Russell 09 - 29 - 23</a></div></div>The two teams opened the game playing to a scoreless draw through
the first quarter of action.Russell (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 1-1 2A D-8) broke on to the
scoreboard first, scoring on a three-yard touchdown run by Brayden Suchy capping
off a 15—play 69-yard driver for a 6-0 lead with just over 11 minutes left in
the second quarter.With the Monarchs (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 0-1 2A D-8) offense struggling
early, the defense provided the Monarchs only touchdown early in the second
quarter when Austin Gilbert hauled in his first career interception and
returned it for a 1-yard touchdown tying the game at six.The Monarchs forced Russell into five turnovers, four of
them were interceptions.After the game was tied at six at halftime, Russell’s first
drive of the second half stalled and then a punt pinned TMP deep in the shadow
of their own endzone.On TMP’s next punt Russell broke through for a punt block
and returned the ball for an eight-yard touchdown putting Russell up 12-6
midway through the third quarter.Russell scored two more fourth quarter touchdowns while the
Broncos held TMP’s offense in check and Russell earned their third straight victory over
TMP 26-6.<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/1628945610&color=%233e0992&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/tmp-football-highlights-09-29-23" title="TMP Football Highlights 09 - 29 - 23" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP Football Highlights 09 - 29 - 23</a></div></div>Russell outgained TMP 280 to 104. With the Monarchs
finishing with 74 yards on the ground. Peyton Schumacher finished with 42 rushing
and 30 passing yards with two interceptions.Russell’s Mason threw for 114 yards and rushed for another
108 yards.The Monarchs were without their leading rusher and two starting offensive linemen Friday night.TMP hosts Phillipsburg next Friday night while Russell
travels to Ellsworth.

🏈 Monarchs drop district opener at Russell

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

HAYS - Hays High didn't allow points over the first three quarters, building a 35-0 lead on their way to a 48-7 victory over Ulysses Friday in their Homecoming game at Lewis Field.

Hays High's offense started the game on the field but the defense found themselves playing after just one snap. The Indians lost a fumble on that first play but the defense held strong in the red zone and forced a missed field goal.

Three plays later Ian McGuire ripped off a 73 yard touchdown run for a 6-0 lead following a missed PAT. Ulysses again drove into the red zone but a bad snap on a field goal attempt led to an incomplete pass and turnover on downs.

The Hays offense engineered a 15 play 85 yard drive that resulted in a four yard touchdown pass from Carter Graham to Braeden Moeckel and a 13-0 lead after a successful PAT. The Indians converted a pair of fourth downs and a third down on the drive.

The defense forced another turnover on downs following a fourth down sack by Tanner Geist, then forced a punt on the next drive.

Graham went over top of the Tiger defense to Jarek Purdy for a 37 yard score and a 20-0 lead into halftime.

Hays opened the second half with a safety on defense by Dalton Meyers and the offense used a short field on the ensuing kickoff to score when Graham found Johnny Cano for the first of two second half hookups. The first was a 12 yard pass and the second off a quarterback scramble for 21 yards.&nbsp;

The second touchdown pass was set up on a short field on a blocked punt that was returned to the 21 by the Indians.

The Hays defense got in on the scoring again in the fourth quarter. Ulysses put a 14 play drive together that was ended on a deflected pass by Meyers and intercepted by Wyatt Kirkpatrick. He returned it 70 yards for a touchdown.

Ulysses did get onto the board one time on a 32 yard run.&nbsp;

Zane Viegra hit Caleb Thompson for a 76 yard touchdown to cap the Indians 48-7 victory.

Hays improves to 3-2. Ulysses falls to 0-4. The Indians will be in Dodge City next week.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostHAYS - Hays High didn't allow points over the first three quarters, building a 35-0 lead on their way to a 48-7 victory over Ulysses Friday in their Homecoming game at Lewis Field.Hays High's offense started the game on the field but the defense found themselves playing after just one snap. The Indians lost a fumble on that first play but the defense held strong in the red zone and forced a missed field goal.Three plays later Ian McGuire ripped off a 73 yard touchdown run for a 6-0 lead following a missed PAT. Ulysses again drove into the red zone but a bad snap on a field goal attempt led to an incomplete pass and turnover on downs.The Hays offense engineered a 15 play 85 yard drive that resulted in a four yard touchdown pass from Carter Graham to Braeden Moeckel and a 13-0 lead after a successful PAT. The Indians converted a pair of fourth downs and a third down on the drive.The defense forced another turnover on downs following a fourth down sack by Tanner Geist, then forced a punt on the next drive.Graham went over top of the Tiger defense to Jarek Purdy for a 37 yard score and a 20-0 lead into halftime.Hays opened the second half with a safety on defense by Dalton Meyers and the offense used a short field on the ensuing kickoff to score when Graham found Johnny Cano for the first of two second half hookups. The first was a 12 yard pass and the second off a quarterback scramble for 21 yards.&nbsp;The second touchdown pass was set up on a short field on a blocked punt that was returned to the 21 by the Indians.The Hays defense got in on the scoring again in the fourth quarter. Ulysses put a 14 play drive together that was ended on a deflected pass by Meyers and intercepted by Wyatt Kirkpatrick. He returned it 70 yards for a touchdown.Ulysses did get onto the board one time on a 32 yard run.&nbsp;Zane Viegra hit Caleb Thompson for a 76 yard touchdown to cap the Indians 48-7 victory.Hays improves to 3-2. Ulysses falls to 0-4. The Indians will be in Dodge City next week.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1628945043&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/hays-high-vs-ulysses-highlights-sept-292023" title="Hays High Vs Ulysses Highlights (Sept 29,2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High Vs Ulysses Highlights (Sept 29,2023)</a></div></div><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1628944989&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/tony-crough-post-game-vs-ulysses-sept-29-2023" title="Tony Crough Post Game Vs Ulysses (Sept 29, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Crough Post Game Vs Ulysses (Sept 29, 2023)</a></div></div>

🏈 Hays wins over Ulysses during Homecoming

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Every batter Kansas City sent up against Carlos Rodón scored, resulting in a nine-run first inning, and Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run homer to become the first Royals player in the 30-30 club during a 12-5 rout of the New York Yankees that opened their season-ending three-game series Friday night.

Witt reached base three times and drove in three runs, and his homer in the seventh gave him 30 to go with 49 stolen bases. He needs one more steal to join Eric Davis, Barry Bonds and Ronald Acuña Jr. as the only players in the 30-50 club.

All eight batters Rodón (3-8) faced scored, tying the most runs allowed in a start without getting an out since at least 1901. He permitted six hits and two walks before Yankees manager Aaron Boone mercifully pulled him from the game.

The Royals wound up putting their first 10 batters on base — the first nine scored — to set a franchise record.

Jordan Lyles (6-17) took advantage of the immense run support to earn his second straight win. The right-hander got through six shaky innings, allowing five runs on four hits and a walk while striking out four.

Austin Wells hit a three-run homer and finished with four RBIs for the Yankees.

The Royals (55-105) need to sweep the three-game set to avoid equaling the 2005 team that lost 106 times for the most in franchise history. The Yankees (81-79) need to win one of the last two to ensure their 31st consecutive winning season.

The miserable first year of Rodón's six-year, $162 million contract came to a fitting conclusion. In 35 pitches without recording an out, Rodón allowed four singles, two walks, a double and Edward Oliveras' no-doubt shot into the New York bullpen.

Not even a visit from Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake could stop the damage.

It was the most batters faced without recording an out by a starter since Steven Matz faced eight for the Mets in 2019, and the 10 consecutive hitters that reached base were the most to start a game against the Yankees since the Cleveland Indians had that many reach against Catfish Hunter and Bob Kammeyer on July 27, 1978.

Rodón began the year on the injured list with a strained forearm and then dealt with a back injury that slowed his return. He didn't make his Yankees debut until July 7, and then lost four of his first five starts. Not even a reasonably respectable last month for the two-time All-Star could salvage his ERA, which plummeted to 6.85 with Friday night's effort. New York went 3-11 in his 2023 starts.

The Royals kept rolling against reliever Matt Bowman, too. Their first out scored another run on Witt's sacrifice fly, and their second was a productive fielder's choice by Oliveras that moved up the runners. Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez, who had three RBIs, each had two hits in the first inning, which ended on a questionable called third strike against Nelson Velázquez.

The Yankees trimmed their 10-run deficit in half by the sixth, but Witt's homer in the seventh put the game away.

Yankees: RHP Keynan Middleton (shoulder inflammation) was activated from the injured list and RHP Yoendrys Gómez was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Middleton served up Witt's home run.

Yankees RHP Frankie Montas (shoulder inflammation) arrived in Kansas City and could pitch before the end of the weekend. He had surgery on his labrum Feb. 21 in Los Angeles, an injury that had limited him after last season's trade from Oakland to the Yankees. He began a Triple-A rehab assignment on Sept. 17 and pitched two scoreless innings last Saturday.

“He didn't have to fight his way to get back for the finish,” Boone said. “He's put himself in a position to be healthy and ready. He is continuing to get after it, right? To be in a position that he is. So we certainly respect that.”

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Every batter Kansas City sent up against Carlos Rodón scored, resulting in a nine-run first inning, and Bobby Witt Jr. added a two-run homer to become the first Royals player in the 30-30 club during a 12-5 rout of the New York Yankees that opened their season-ending three-game series Friday night.Witt reached base three times and drove in three runs, and his homer in the seventh gave him 30 to go with 49 stolen bases. He needs one more steal to join Eric Davis, Barry Bonds and Ronald Acuña Jr. as the only players in the 30-50 club.All eight batters Rodón (3-8) faced scored, tying the most runs allowed in a start without getting an out since at least 1901. He permitted six hits and two walks before Yankees manager Aaron Boone mercifully pulled him from the game.The Royals wound up putting their first 10 batters on base — the first nine scored — to set a franchise record.Jordan Lyles (6-17) took advantage of the immense run support to earn his second straight win. The right-hander got through six shaky innings, allowing five runs on four hits and a walk while striking out four.Austin Wells hit a three-run homer and finished with four RBIs for the Yankees.The Royals (55-105) need to sweep the three-game set to avoid equaling the 2005 team that lost 106 times for the most in franchise history. The Yankees (81-79) need to win one of the last two to ensure their 31st consecutive winning season.The miserable first year of Rodón's six-year, $162 million contract came to a fitting conclusion. In 35 pitches without recording an out, Rodón allowed four singles, two walks, a double and Edward Oliveras' no-doubt shot into the New York bullpen.Not even a visit from Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake could stop the damage.It was the most batters faced without recording an out by a starter since Steven Matz faced eight for the Mets in 2019, and the 10 consecutive hitters that reached base were the most to start a game against the Yankees since the Cleveland Indians had that many reach against Catfish Hunter and Bob Kammeyer on July 27, 1978.Rodón began the year on the injured list with a strained forearm and then dealt with a back injury that slowed his return. He didn't make his Yankees debut until July 7, and then lost four of his first five starts. Not even a reasonably respectable last month for the two-time All-Star could salvage his ERA, which plummeted to 6.85 with Friday night's effort. New York went 3-11 in his 2023 starts.The Royals kept rolling against reliever Matt Bowman, too. Their first out scored another run on Witt's sacrifice fly, and their second was a productive fielder's choice by Oliveras that moved up the runners. Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez, who had three RBIs, each had two hits in the first inning, which ended on a questionable called third strike against Nelson Velázquez.The Yankees trimmed their 10-run deficit in half by the sixth, but Witt's homer in the seventh put the game away.ROSTER MOVESYankees: RHP Keynan Middleton (shoulder inflammation) was activated from the injured list and RHP Yoendrys Gómez was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Middleton served up Witt's home run.WAIT AND SEEYankees RHP Frankie Montas (shoulder inflammation) arrived in Kansas City and could pitch before the end of the weekend. He had surgery on his labrum Feb. 21 in Los Angeles, an injury that had limited him after last season's trade from Oakland to the Yankees. He began a Triple-A rehab assignment on Sept. 17 and pitched two scoreless innings last Saturday.“He didn't have to fight his way to get back for the finish,” Boone said. “He's put himself in a position to be healthy and ready. He is continuing to get after it, right? To be in a position that he is. So we certainly respect that.”UP NEXT

⚾ Witt homers to join 30-30 club as KC rocks Yankees

HAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team took care of business in their first home conference match on Friday against Northwest Missouri State. The Tigers defeated the Bearcats by a score of 1-0 to improve to 6-1-2, 2-0 in MIAA play, while the Bearcats fell to 3-4-2, 0-2 in conference play. Fort Hays State got on the board early and used their defense the rest of the way to secure the victory.

Despite the harsh headwinds, Fort Hays State was able to put together a great possession in the 3' of play. Claire Gaeth and Sullivan Kelly&nbsp;were able to maneuver the ball up to Gracen Chaney&nbsp;who slid to the left side of the box. Chaney perfectly executed a lob shot into the wind and over the Northwest goalie for the lone goal of the match and her first goal of the season.

The Tiger defense kept with the trend of playing solid defense on Friday night. Fort Hays State has surrendered the second fewest number of goals in the conference with just five through nine matches. The defense did not allow many easy looks at all, even when the Bearcats had the benefit of the wind in the first period. The Bearcats were held to four shots in the first period, none of which were on target, and only three shots in the second period.

Keeper Isabel Robben&nbsp;notched two saves on the match, one being a one-handed diving save to preserve the lead. &nbsp;Fort Hays State stays atop of the MIAA conference standings alongside Washburn.

The Tigers will be back in action to finish the weekend against the Missouri Western State Griffons on Sunday (Oct. 1) with first kick slated for 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696041449285.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Gracen Chaney attempts a corner kick in an NCAA soccer match vs. Northwest Missouri State on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Gracen Chaney attempts a corner kick in an NCAA soccer match vs. Northwest Missouri State on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team took care of business in their first home conference match on Friday against Northwest Missouri State. The Tigers defeated the Bearcats by a score of 1-0 to improve to 6-1-2, 2-0 in MIAA play, while the Bearcats fell to 3-4-2, 0-2 in conference play. Fort Hays State got on the board early and used their defense the rest of the way to secure the victory.Despite the harsh headwinds, Fort Hays State was able to put together a great possession in the 3' of play. Claire Gaeth and Sullivan Kelly&nbsp;were able to maneuver the ball up to Gracen Chaney&nbsp;who slid to the left side of the box. Chaney perfectly executed a lob shot into the wind and over the Northwest goalie for the lone goal of the match and her first goal of the season.The Tiger defense kept with the trend of playing solid defense on Friday night. Fort Hays State has surrendered the second fewest number of goals in the conference with just five through nine matches. The defense did not allow many easy looks at all, even when the Bearcats had the benefit of the wind in the first period. The Bearcats were held to four shots in the first period, none of which were on target, and only three shots in the second period.Keeper Isabel Robben&nbsp;notched two saves on the match, one being a one-handed diving save to preserve the lead. &nbsp;Fort Hays State stays atop of the MIAA conference standings alongside Washburn.The Tigers will be back in action to finish the weekend against the Missouri Western State Griffons on Sunday (Oct. 1) with first kick slated for 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Chaney, defense lead Tiger women past NW Missouri State

WICHITA, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team cruised to a straight-set victory over the Newman Jets on Friday, winning 25-11, 25-13, 25-14. The Tigers (7-8, 1-5 MIAA) recorded just nine attack errors on the day, their first match with fewer than 10 errors in nearly two years (8 vs. Missouri Southern, 10/15/21).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696044803206.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWICHITA, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team cruised to a straight-set victory over the Newman Jets on Friday, winning 25-11, 25-13, 25-14. The Tigers (7-8, 1-5 MIAA) recorded just nine attack errors on the day, their first match with fewer than 10 errors in nearly two years (8 vs. Missouri Southern, 10/15/21).The Tigers took an early lead in the opening set, trading points with the Jets (0-13, 0-6) until a seven-point Tiger run gave FHSU a 10-point advantage, 17-10.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/gracie-rains/7500">Gracie Rains</a>&nbsp;dropped in three kills during the run, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/brooke-hyland/7498">Brooke Hyland</a>&nbsp;adding a service ace and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/emily-ellis/7495">Emily Ellis</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/mya-vandrovec/7505">Mya Vandrovec</a>&nbsp;combining for a block to push the lead to double figures.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/riley-tinder/7504">Riley Tinder</a>&nbsp;brought the set to a close, rattling off the final four kills for the Tigers, including three in a row to clinch the win.Fort Hays State went on a big run earlier in the second set, scoring eight in a row to sprint out to a 9-2 lead. Tinder added three more kills during the run alongside one kill from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/ashlyn-reeves/7536">Ashlyn Reeves</a>&nbsp;and one service ace from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/emily-ellis/7495">Emily Ellis</a>. Vandrovec later ended the set with her third kill of the frame.The Tigers never trailed in the final set, scoring the first two points before rattling off 13 in a row to quickly lead 15-1. Seven different Tigers recorded a kill in the final set, including two each from Ellis,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/claire-olson/7499">Claire Olson</a>, Tinder and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/kirsten-evans/7496">Kirsten Evans</a>.Fort Hays State finished the match with a season-best attack percentage of .340 (42-9-97) while limiting the Jets to a swing rate of .019 (23-21-107). The Tigers held an 8-4 advantage in blocks while leading in digs, 56-38.Tinder paced the team with 11 kills while adding 12 digs. Rains added eight kills, while Olson recorded a team-best six blocks (two solo) alongside five kills. Evans dished out 16 assists, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/caiya-stucky/7503">Caiya Stucky</a>&nbsp;adding 13.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/andressa-ribeiro-soares/7537">Andressa Ribeiro Soares</a>&nbsp;posted a team-best 13 digs.The Tigers will now return home for their next six matches, beginning Thursday (Oct. 5, 6 p.m.) against Missouri Western.&nbsp;&nbsp;