TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes had all the answers for solving Tampa Bay's stingy defense, winning his latest matchup against Tom Brady in the stadium where the seven-time Super Bowl winner dealt him one of his most disappointing losses.

Mahomes threw for 249 yards and three touchdowns, including an electrifying jump pass to Clyde Edwards-Helaire, to lead the Chiefs to a 41-31 victory over the Buccaneers on Sunday night.

Playing at sold out Raymond James Stadium only four days after Hurricane Ian ravaged portions of Florida, Mahomes had TD throws of 16 yards to Travis Kelce, 1 yard to Edwards-Helaire and 10 yards to Jody Fortson while making NFL history by reaching 20,000 yards passing faster than anyone else.

Edwards-Helaire and tight end Noah Gray rushed for TDs for the Chiefs (3-1), who won the first meeting between Mahomes and Brady since Tampa Bay’s 31-9 rout of Kansas City in the Super Bowl — also played at Raymond James Stadium — two seasons ago.

“When I came into the stadium I realized that I hadn’t been here and the bad taste I had last time came into effect," Mahomes said. "But it’s still not a playoff game. It’s a regular-season game, which is important. That Super Bowl will always leave a bad taste for me.”

The short pass to Edwards-Helaire was&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1576740935735513088">Mahomes at his improvisational best</a>: He escaped two defenders, did a 360-degree spin move and flipped the ball over a crowd to the running back in the back of the end zone.

“I was able to use my speed, my little bit of speed, to get around the edge there. I was gonna run for it, but they kind of flew around me," Mahomes said. “I realized I wasn’t going to make it and I saw Clyde, so I kind of flicked it up to him.”

Brady noted it's fun watching Mahomes, unless he's on the opposing sideline.

“I love seeing Patrick play. ... Unfortunately we're on the wrong end of it tonight,” said Brady, who's 1-2 against the Chiefs quarterback since joining the Bucs in 2020 after two decades with the New England Patriots.

Brady completed 39 of 52 passes for 385 yards and three TDs without an interception for Tampa Bay (2-2). The Bucs, however, played from behind the whole night after rookie Rachaad White fumbled the opening kickoff and Mahomes threw his TD pass to Kelce two plays later.

The Chiefs also got into the end zone on three of their next four possessions, with Mahomes repeatedly shredding the Tampa Bay defense with pinpoint passes and Edwards-Helaire and Isiah Pacheco taking turns running the ball effectively.

“It’s a team sport. We didn’t play great on offense. We didn’t help (the defense) much, either," Brady said.

“We didn’t do great in the first half. Too many missed opportunities on third downs, turnovers. We gotta play a lot better to be one of the good teams,” the seven-time Super Bowl winner added. "We haven’t played our best yet this year.”

Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed sacked Brady, forcing a fumble that Mahomes turned into Gray’s TD, with the tight end taking a direct snap from center on the 1-yard plunge that put Kansas City up 28-10.

Brady threw TD passes of 13 yards and 1 yard to Mike Evans, who returned from serving a one-game suspension for his role in a on-field brawl at New Orleans two weeks ago. He had eight receptions for 103 yards.

Evans' second TD trimmed Kansas City’s lead to 28-17 at halftime. That was as close as the Bucs got until Leonard Fournette’s 5-yard TD reception cut Tampa Bay’s deficit to 41-31 with 3:30 remaining.

Brady wouldn’t get the ball back until less than a minute was left.

Kansas City finished with 417 yards of total offense, including a 189-3 edge on the ground, against a defense that had allowed a league-low 27 points through three games.

“Everything in this game fell on the defensive side of the ball," Bucs coach Todd Bowles said. "You name it we did it. Missed tackles. Missed assignments. Bad calls.”

The Bucs sacked Mahomes three times and intercepted him once, but it was not the “coming out party” linebacker Shaquil Barrett thought his team could have against an offensive line the Chiefs have overhauled since struggling against Tampa Bay in the Super Bowl loss.

With Hurricane Ian approaching the Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Bucs evacuated for four days to the Miami area, where they practiced Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at the Dolphins' training facility while the NFL made contingency plans to move the game to Minneapolis if it couldn’t be played in Tampa.

The Glazer family that owns the Bucs has announced it is donating $1 million for hurricane relief. The NFL Foundation is matching that donation, and the Bucs on Sunday night began a “Florida Strong” campaign to raise funds, as well as honor emergency personnel and first responders.

Players and fans observed a “moment of support” prior the national anthem, and the Bucs also paid tribute to those affected by the hurricane in a video presentation displayed on giant scoreboard screens before the game.

Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (ankle) was inactive for the third straight game. ... Bucs WRs Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Julio Jones (knee ), as well as LT Donovan Smith (elbow), played for the first time since Tampa Bay’s season-opening victory at Dallas. ... Bucs CB Logan Ryan left with a foot injury in the first quarter. ... TE Cameron Brate (concussion) and CB Carlton Davis (stinger) left in the second half.

Chiefs: Return home to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday, Oct. 10.

Buccaneers: Host the Atlanta Falcons next Sunday.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes had all the answers for solving Tampa Bay's stingy defense, winning his latest matchup against Tom Brady in the stadium where the seven-time Super Bowl winner dealt him one of his most disappointing losses.Mahomes threw for 249 yards and three touchdowns, including an electrifying jump pass to Clyde Edwards-Helaire, to lead the Chiefs to a 41-31 victory over the Buccaneers on Sunday night.Playing at sold out Raymond James Stadium only four days after Hurricane Ian ravaged portions of Florida, Mahomes had TD throws of 16 yards to Travis Kelce, 1 yard to Edwards-Helaire and 10 yards to Jody Fortson while making NFL history by reaching 20,000 yards passing faster than anyone else.Edwards-Helaire and tight end Noah Gray rushed for TDs for the Chiefs (3-1), who won the first meeting between Mahomes and Brady since Tampa Bay’s 31-9 rout of Kansas City in the Super Bowl — also played at Raymond James Stadium — two seasons ago.“When I came into the stadium I realized that I hadn’t been here and the bad taste I had last time came into effect," Mahomes said. "But it’s still not a playoff game. It’s a regular-season game, which is important. That Super Bowl will always leave a bad taste for me.”The short pass to Edwards-Helaire was&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1576740935735513088">Mahomes at his improvisational best</a>: He escaped two defenders, did a 360-degree spin move and flipped the ball over a crowd to the running back in the back of the end zone.“I was able to use my speed, my little bit of speed, to get around the edge there. I was gonna run for it, but they kind of flew around me," Mahomes said. “I realized I wasn’t going to make it and I saw Clyde, so I kind of flicked it up to him.”Brady noted it's fun watching Mahomes, unless he's on the opposing sideline.“I love seeing Patrick play. ... Unfortunately we're on the wrong end of it tonight,” said Brady, who's 1-2 against the Chiefs quarterback since joining the Bucs in 2020 after two decades with the New England Patriots.Brady completed 39 of 52 passes for 385 yards and three TDs without an interception for Tampa Bay (2-2). The Bucs, however, played from behind the whole night after rookie Rachaad White fumbled the opening kickoff and Mahomes threw his TD pass to Kelce two plays later.The Chiefs also got into the end zone on three of their next four possessions, with Mahomes repeatedly shredding the Tampa Bay defense with pinpoint passes and Edwards-Helaire and Isiah Pacheco taking turns running the ball effectively.“It’s a team sport. We didn’t play great on offense. We didn’t help (the defense) much, either," Brady said.“We didn’t do great in the first half. Too many missed opportunities on third downs, turnovers. We gotta play a lot better to be one of the good teams,” the seven-time Super Bowl winner added. "We haven’t played our best yet this year.”Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed sacked Brady, forcing a fumble that Mahomes turned into Gray’s TD, with the tight end taking a direct snap from center on the 1-yard plunge that put Kansas City up 28-10.Brady threw TD passes of 13 yards and 1 yard to Mike Evans, who returned from serving a one-game suspension for his role in a on-field brawl at New Orleans two weeks ago. He had eight receptions for 103 yards.Evans' second TD trimmed Kansas City’s lead to 28-17 at halftime. That was as close as the Bucs got until Leonard Fournette’s 5-yard TD reception cut Tampa Bay’s deficit to 41-31 with 3:30 remaining.Brady wouldn’t get the ball back until less than a minute was left.Kansas City finished with 417 yards of total offense, including a 189-3 edge on the ground, against a defense that had allowed a league-low 27 points through three games.“Everything in this game fell on the defensive side of the ball," Bucs coach Todd Bowles said. "You name it we did it. Missed tackles. Missed assignments. Bad calls.”The Bucs sacked Mahomes three times and intercepted him once, but it was not the “coming out party” linebacker Shaquil Barrett thought his team could have against an offensive line the Chiefs have overhauled since struggling against Tampa Bay in the Super Bowl loss.With Hurricane Ian approaching the Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Bucs evacuated for four days to the Miami area, where they practiced Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at the Dolphins' training facility while the NFL made contingency plans to move the game to Minneapolis if it couldn’t be played in Tampa.The Glazer family that owns the Bucs has announced it is donating $1 million for hurricane relief. The NFL Foundation is matching that donation, and the Bucs on Sunday night began a “Florida Strong” campaign to raise funds, as well as honor emergency personnel and first responders.Players and fans observed a “moment of support” prior the national anthem, and the Bucs also paid tribute to those affected by the hurricane in a video presentation displayed on giant scoreboard screens before the game.INJURIESChiefs kicker Harrison Butker (ankle) was inactive for the third straight game. ... Bucs WRs Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Julio Jones (knee ), as well as LT Donovan Smith (elbow), played for the first time since Tampa Bay’s season-opening victory at Dallas. ... Bucs CB Logan Ryan left with a foot injury in the first quarter. ... TE Cameron Brate (concussion) and CB Carlton Davis (stinger) left in the second half.UP NEXTChiefs: Return home to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday, Oct. 10.Buccaneers: Host the Atlanta Falcons next Sunday.

🏈 Mahomes throws for 3 TDs, Chiefs overwhelm Buccaneers

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Josh Jacobs ran for 144 yards and two touchdowns, Amik Robertson returned a fumble&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576687015835279360?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">68 yards for a score</a>&nbsp;and the Las Vegas Raiders won their first game of the season, 32-23 over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

After opening their first season under coach Josh McDaniels by losing three straight one-score games, the Raiders (1-3) managed to do enough on the ground with their biggest rushing game in six years and on defense to hold off Russell Wilson and the Broncos (2-2).

Maxx Crosby had two of Las Vegas' three sacks, and Robertson had the game-changing play late in the first half as Denver repeatedly failed to take advantage of good field position.

After getting a 5-yard TD pass from Wilson to Courtland Sutton to cap a 34-yard drive in the first quarter, the Broncos turned three other chances with prime field position into one field goal and the fumble by Melvin Gordon III that Robertson returned for the touchdown.

Wilson had his most efficient game of his short tenure in Denver, completing 17 of 25 passes for 237 yards and two TDs. He also ran for a 3-yard TD that cut the Raiders' lead to 25-23 after completing a 55-yard pass to KJ Hamler.

Jacobs put it away with a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576714307156381696?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">7-yard TD run</a>&nbsp;with 2:01 to play. He became the first Raiders player to rush for at least 130 yards and two TDs in a game since Darren McFadden did it in 2011 against the Jets.

<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1576710907043815424?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">Derek Carr didn't have to do much</a>&nbsp;for the Raiders, completing 21 of 34 passes for 188 yards as Las Vegas got the running game going for the first time this season. Davante Adams had nine catches for 101 yards.

Jacobs scored on a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576681352136560641?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">10-yard run</a>&nbsp;in the second quarter and set up a field goal in the third with a 42-yard run that was his longest since his rookie season in 2019.

The Raiders finished with 212 yards rushing for their most in a game since getting 218 against the Broncos in 2016.

The Raiders' defense got into the scoring mode for a change when Duron Harmon forced Gordon's fumble and Robertson took it to the end zone.

It was the first TD by the Raiders' defense or special teams since Erik Harris had a pick-6 against the Chargers on Nov. 7, 2019. The 43 regular season games without one was the second longest of the Super Bowl era, trailing only a 49-game streak by the Browns from 1979-82.

It was the Raiders' first fumble return for a TD since Keith McGill did it in the 2014 finale against Denver.

Both teams had their issues on special teams with Tyron Johnson botching a punt return that backed the Raiders up near their goal line in the first quarter.

Las Vegas also set up Denver with good field position when a surprise onside kick failed.

Both teams also missed extra points in the second quarter with Daniel Carlson missing his first kick of any kind this season for the Raiders and Denver's Brandon McManus missing his second in the past two seasons.

Broncos: S P.J. Locke left the game with a concussion on the opening kick. ... RB Javonte Williams left with a knee injury on the first play of the second half and didn't return.

Raiders: LB Denzel Perryman left with a concussion in the first first half.

Broncos: Host Indianapolis on Thursday night.

Raiders: Visit Kansas City on Monday, Oct. 10.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Josh Jacobs ran for 144 yards and two touchdowns, Amik Robertson returned a fumble&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576687015835279360?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">68 yards for a score</a>&nbsp;and the Las Vegas Raiders won their first game of the season, 32-23 over the Denver Broncos on Sunday.After opening their first season under coach Josh McDaniels by losing three straight one-score games, the Raiders (1-3) managed to do enough on the ground with their biggest rushing game in six years and on defense to hold off Russell Wilson and the Broncos (2-2).Maxx Crosby had two of Las Vegas' three sacks, and Robertson had the game-changing play late in the first half as Denver repeatedly failed to take advantage of good field position.After getting a 5-yard TD pass from Wilson to Courtland Sutton to cap a 34-yard drive in the first quarter, the Broncos turned three other chances with prime field position into one field goal and the fumble by Melvin Gordon III that Robertson returned for the touchdown.Wilson had his most efficient game of his short tenure in Denver, completing 17 of 25 passes for 237 yards and two TDs. He also ran for a 3-yard TD that cut the Raiders' lead to 25-23 after completing a 55-yard pass to KJ Hamler.Jacobs put it away with a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576714307156381696?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">7-yard TD run</a>&nbsp;with 2:01 to play. He became the first Raiders player to rush for at least 130 yards and two TDs in a game since Darren McFadden did it in 2011 against the Jets.<a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1576710907043815424?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">Derek Carr didn't have to do much</a>&nbsp;for the Raiders, completing 21 of 34 passes for 188 yards as Las Vegas got the running game going for the first time this season. Davante Adams had nine catches for 101 yards.Jacobs scored on a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1576681352136560641?s=20&amp;t=W_oXWWNRZo36zZNZ8otGng">10-yard run</a>&nbsp;in the second quarter and set up a field goal in the third with a 42-yard run that was his longest since his rookie season in 2019.The Raiders finished with 212 yards rushing for their most in a game since getting 218 against the Broncos in 2016.SURPRISE SCOREThe Raiders' defense got into the scoring mode for a change when Duron Harmon forced Gordon's fumble and Robertson took it to the end zone.It was the first TD by the Raiders' defense or special teams since Erik Harris had a pick-6 against the Chargers on Nov. 7, 2019. The 43 regular season games without one was the second longest of the Super Bowl era, trailing only a 49-game streak by the Browns from 1979-82.It was the Raiders' first fumble return for a TD since Keith McGill did it in the 2014 finale against Denver.NOT SO SPECIALBoth teams had their issues on special teams with Tyron Johnson botching a punt return that backed the Raiders up near their goal line in the first quarter.Las Vegas also set up Denver with good field position when a surprise onside kick failed.Both teams also missed extra points in the second quarter with Daniel Carlson missing his first kick of any kind this season for the Raiders and Denver's Brandon McManus missing his second in the past two seasons.INJURIESBroncos: S P.J. Locke left the game with a concussion on the opening kick. ... RB Javonte Williams left with a knee injury on the first play of the second half and didn't return.Raiders: LB Denzel Perryman left with a concussion in the first first half.UP NEXTBroncos: Host Indianapolis on Thursday night.Raiders: Visit Kansas City on Monday, Oct. 10.

🏈 Jacobs, defense lead Raiders to win over Broncos

EDMOND, Okla. - The Fort Hays State women's soccer team played to a 1-1 draw with 11th-ranked Central Oklahoma on Sunday. UCO took the lead in the first half but they committed an own goal in the second half that leveled the score. Fort Hays State remained unbeaten at 8-0-4 (3-0-2 MIAA) and Central Oklahoma moved to 8-1-2 (3-1-1). Central Oklahoma took the lead in the 15th&nbsp;minute when Lauren Piper bent a well-placed free kick into the corner of the net. The Bronchos held a 1-0 lead at the half. The Tigers picked up the equalizer midway through the second half when a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6682">Emily Hutchings</a>&nbsp;sailed into the box.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6937">Ariella Mesa</a>&nbsp;and a Broncho defender both went up for headers and it struck the Broncho player, redirecting the ball into their own goal. At the end of the match, the Tigers held the advantage in the shot battle 13-11. FHSU put four shots on target and UCO put three on goal.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6693">Isabel Robben</a>&nbsp;secured two saves for the Tigers and Caroline Faulkner of UCO had three of her own. The Tigers will be at home next week as they host Northeastern State on Friday (Oct. 7) and Rogers State on Sunday (Oct. 9).&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU AthleticsEDMOND, Okla. - The Fort Hays State women's soccer team played to a 1-1 draw with 11th-ranked Central Oklahoma on Sunday. UCO took the lead in the first half but they committed an own goal in the second half that leveled the score. Fort Hays State remained unbeaten at 8-0-4 (3-0-2 MIAA) and Central Oklahoma moved to 8-1-2 (3-1-1). Central Oklahoma took the lead in the 15th&nbsp;minute when Lauren Piper bent a well-placed free kick into the corner of the net. The Bronchos held a 1-0 lead at the half. The Tigers picked up the equalizer midway through the second half when a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6682">Emily Hutchings</a>&nbsp;sailed into the box.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6937">Ariella Mesa</a>&nbsp;and a Broncho defender both went up for headers and it struck the Broncho player, redirecting the ball into their own goal. At the end of the match, the Tigers held the advantage in the shot battle 13-11. FHSU put four shots on target and UCO put three on goal.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6693">Isabel Robben</a>&nbsp;secured two saves for the Tigers and Caroline Faulkner of UCO had three of her own. The Tigers will be at home next week as they host Northeastern State on Friday (Oct. 7) and Rogers State on Sunday (Oct. 9).&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Tigers women play to draw at No. 11 Central Oklahoma

CLEVELAND (AP) — Shane Bieber allowed two runs over five innings in his final start before the postseason, Josh Naylor and rookie Will Brennan hit three-run homers and the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Kansas City Royals 7-5 on Sunday.

Bieber (13-8) is scheduled to start Game 1 of the wild-card series Friday for the AL Central champions. Cleveland has won 11 of 13 and is an MLB-best 22-5 since Sept. 5.

The right-hander gave up both runs — one unearned —in the fourth and scattered seven hits, struck out three, walked one. Bieber finished the regular season with 198 strikeouts in 200 innings.

Naylor and Brennan homered off Max Castillo (0-2) in Cleveland’s six-run second.

Naylor played first base and batted cleanup, one spot ahead of his brother Bo, who was the designated hitter. Bo Naylor, called up from the minors Saturday, struck out in all four at-bats.

Josh Naylor’s home run gave Cleveland a 7-0 lead. Brennan, another rookie, hit his first major-league homer earlier in the inning. He also tripled and scored to leadoff the game.

Kansas City cut the score to 7-5 in the eighth, but Trevor Stephan retired Edward Olivares with two on to end the inning. Emmanuel Clase pitched the ninth for his major-league leading 41st save.

Amed Rosario had a sacrifice fly in the first before Cleveland sent nine men to the plate in the second and scored six times with two outs.

Brennan is batting .355 in nine games since being called up from Triple-A Columbus on Sept. 21.

José Ramirez stole his 20th base of the season in the seventh, the fourth time in his career he has hit 20 home runs and stolen 20 bases in a season.

Castillo allowed seven runs in five innings. MJ Melendez and Vinnie Pasquantino each had three hits for the Royals.

Royals catcher Salvador Perez wasn’t in the lineup after feeling soreness in his left thumb during Saturday’s game.

Perez tore the ulnar collateral ligament in the thumb in June, had surgery and returned in late July. Perez homered in the seventh inning Saturday and was removed from the game following the at-bat because of discomfort in the thumb.

Manager Mike Matheny said tests showed the area where the surgery was performed wasn’t affected and Perez is day-to-day over the final three games of the season.

“We’re fortunate everything looked good where the repair was,” Matheny said. “That didn’t seem to be an issue. It’s just sore.”

The game-time temperature was 58 degrees, which felt much lower to fans thanks to a 22 mph wind blowing in from center field.

The six-game series continues Monday night. RHP Zack Greinke (4-9, 3.78 ERA) is 1-0 in three starts against the Guardians this season, allowing two earned runs over 16 2/3 innings. RHP Triston McKenzie (11-11, 2.99 ERA) was 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA in five September starts.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Shane Bieber allowed two runs over five innings in his final start before the postseason, Josh Naylor and rookie Will Brennan hit three-run homers and the Cleveland Guardians defeated the Kansas City Royals 7-5 on Sunday.Bieber (13-8) is scheduled to start Game 1 of the wild-card series Friday for the AL Central champions. Cleveland has won 11 of 13 and is an MLB-best 22-5 since Sept. 5.The right-hander gave up both runs — one unearned —in the fourth and scattered seven hits, struck out three, walked one. Bieber finished the regular season with 198 strikeouts in 200 innings.Naylor and Brennan homered off Max Castillo (0-2) in Cleveland’s six-run second.Naylor played first base and batted cleanup, one spot ahead of his brother Bo, who was the designated hitter. Bo Naylor, called up from the minors Saturday, struck out in all four at-bats.Josh Naylor’s home run gave Cleveland a 7-0 lead. Brennan, another rookie, hit his first major-league homer earlier in the inning. He also tripled and scored to leadoff the game.Kansas City cut the score to 7-5 in the eighth, but Trevor Stephan retired Edward Olivares with two on to end the inning. Emmanuel Clase pitched the ninth for his major-league leading 41st save.Amed Rosario had a sacrifice fly in the first before Cleveland sent nine men to the plate in the second and scored six times with two outs.Brennan is batting .355 in nine games since being called up from Triple-A Columbus on Sept. 21.José Ramirez stole his 20th base of the season in the seventh, the fourth time in his career he has hit 20 home runs and stolen 20 bases in a season.Castillo allowed seven runs in five innings. MJ Melendez and Vinnie Pasquantino each had three hits for the Royals.TAKE A DAYRoyals catcher Salvador Perez wasn’t in the lineup after feeling soreness in his left thumb during Saturday’s game.Perez tore the ulnar collateral ligament in the thumb in June, had surgery and returned in late July. Perez homered in the seventh inning Saturday and was removed from the game following the at-bat because of discomfort in the thumb.Manager Mike Matheny said tests showed the area where the surgery was performed wasn’t affected and Perez is day-to-day over the final three games of the season.“We’re fortunate everything looked good where the repair was,” Matheny said. “That didn’t seem to be an issue. It’s just sore.”BUNDLE UPThe game-time temperature was 58 degrees, which felt much lower to fans thanks to a 22 mph wind blowing in from center field.UP NEXTThe six-game series continues Monday night. RHP Zack Greinke (4-9, 3.78 ERA) is 1-0 in three starts against the Guardians this season, allowing two earned runs over 16 2/3 innings. RHP Triston McKenzie (11-11, 2.99 ERA) was 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA in five September starts.

⚾ Bieber tunes up for playoffs, Guardians top Royals

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

KEARNEY, Neb. - No. 23/19 Nebraska-Kearney scored 24-straight points midway through the third and fourth quarters and beat Fort Hays State 38-20 Saturday night Cope Stadium/Foster Field to end a nine-game losing streak to the Tigers. It was the Lopers (4-1) first win over the Tigers since 2010 and their first win in Kearney since 2002.

Quarterback Chance Fuller made his first start since the season-opener at Northwest Missouri State and engineered a 13-play, 65-yard scoring drive on the Tigers (1-4) first possession that ate up 6:13. Adrian Soto capped the drive with a one-yard run.

The Lopers answered with a nine-play, 74-yard drive which ended with an 11-yard touchdown run from Damien Cearns but the Tiger defense held them to only nine yards the remainder of the half.

The Tigers had a chance to take the lead before halftime but Fuller had pass deflected off the pads of Adrian Soto intercepted inside the 10.&nbsp;

The Lopers took the lead for good with under a minute to play in the second quarter when All-American quarterback TJ Davis scored on a three-yard run. The touchdown was set up by a by a Darius Swanson interception which he&nbsp; returned to the six yard line.

After back-to-back three-and-outs but the Tiger defense, the offense struck again. Fuller found Dawson Brown II in the back of the endzone with 6:44 to play in the third to cut the lead to 14-13 but Manny Aguilar missed the extra point.

The Lopers responded on the next possession, marching 82 yards in eight plays. Davis connected with tight end Luke Blatchford on a 48-yard touchdown pass on third and two to push the lead to 21-13. 

After forcing the Tigers to punt on their next possession, UNK drove 82-yards in 15 plays and scored on a Davis TD pass to Xavier Delk with 8:53 to play in the fourth. It came after the Tigers appeared to a get a stop on third and 20, but an offside penalty allowed the Lopers another play and on third and 15, the connected on a 17-yard completion to keep the drive alive.

Following a stop on downs, Davis threw his third touchdown pass of the night, hitting Bailey Torres on a 38-yard strike. They added a field goal following a Jack Dawson interception to go up 38-13.

Fort Hays State got their final score on a one-yard TD pass from Dawson to redshirt-freshman tight eight Cole Cormany with one-second to play.

The Tigers outgained the Lopers 370-297 and held the Lopers rushing game, which averaged over 300 yards per game to only 164. It marks only the second time under coach Chris Brown the Tigers have lost a game while holding their opponent under 300 yards of total offense.

Fuller finished the game 21-of-32 for 219 yards and one touchdown and three interceptions. He left in the fourth quarter with an apparent shoulder injury. Manny Ramsey hauled in 10 catches for 134 yards, the ninth career 100-yard receiving game in his career. Mason Perez led the defense with seven tackles.

Davis finished the night with 133 passing yards and 78 rushing yards for the Lopers. Jacey Nutter had 12 tackles for UNK. The Tigers host Washburn for Homecoming next Saturday . Kickoff is at 7 p.m. The Ichabods lost 42-35 at home to Emporia State and will bring a&nbsp; 3-2 record to Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostKEARNEY, Neb. - No. 23/19 Nebraska-Kearney scored 24-straight points midway through the third and fourth quarters and beat Fort Hays State 38-20 Saturday night Cope Stadium/Foster Field to end a nine-game losing streak to the Tigers. It was the Lopers (4-1) first win over the Tigers since 2010 and their first win in Kearney since 2002.<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/1355189074&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-814667509/10-01-22-fhsu-brown-at-unk" title="Chris Brown Postgame at Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame at Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)</a></div></div>Quarterback Chance Fuller made his first start since the season-opener at Northwest Missouri State and engineered a 13-play, 65-yard scoring drive on the Tigers (1-4) first possession that ate up 6:13. Adrian Soto capped the drive with a one-yard run.The Lopers answered with a nine-play, 74-yard drive which ended with an 11-yard touchdown run from Damien Cearns but the Tiger defense held them to only nine yards the remainder of the half.The Tigers had a chance to take the lead before halftime but Fuller had pass deflected off the pads of Adrian Soto intercepted inside the 10.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1355189023&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-814667509/10-01-22-fhsu-ramsey-interview" title="Manny Ramsey Postgame at Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Manny Ramsey Postgame at Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)</a></div></div>The Lopers took the lead for good with under a minute to play in the second quarter when All-American quarterback TJ Davis scored on a three-yard run. The touchdown was set up by a by a Darius Swanson interception which he&nbsp; returned to the six yard line.After back-to-back three-and-outs but the Tiger defense, the offense struck again. Fuller found Dawson Brown II in the back of the endzone with 6:44 to play in the third to cut the lead to 14-13 but Manny Aguilar missed the extra point.<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/1355188972&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-814667509/10-01-22-fhsu-williams-interview" title="Makel Williams Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Makel Williams Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 1, 2022)</a></div></div>The Lopers responded on the next possession, marching 82 yards in eight plays. Davis connected with tight end Luke Blatchford on a 48-yard touchdown pass on third and two to push the lead to 21-13. After forcing the Tigers to punt on their next possession, UNK drove 82-yards in 15 plays and scored on a Davis TD pass to Xavier Delk with 8:53 to play in the fourth. It came after the Tigers appeared to a get a stop on third and 20, but an offside penalty allowed the Lopers another play and on third and 15, the connected on a 17-yard completion to keep the drive alive.Following a stop on downs, Davis threw his third touchdown pass of the night, hitting Bailey Torres on a 38-yard strike. They added a field goal following a Jack Dawson interception to go up 38-13.Fort Hays State got their final score on a one-yard TD pass from Dawson to redshirt-freshman tight eight Cole Cormany with one-second to play.The Tigers outgained the Lopers 370-297 and held the Lopers rushing game, which averaged over 300 yards per game to only 164. It marks only the second time under coach Chris Brown the Tigers have lost a game while holding their opponent under 300 yards of total offense.<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/1355189044&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-814667509/10-01-22-fhsu-highlights" title="Fort Hays State FB at Nebraska-Kearney Highlights (Oct 1, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State FB at Nebraska-Kearney Highlights (Oct 1, 2022)</a></div></div>Fuller finished the game 21-of-32 for 219 yards and one touchdown and three interceptions. He left in the fourth quarter with an apparent shoulder injury. Manny Ramsey hauled in 10 catches for 134 yards, the ninth career 100-yard receiving game in his career. Mason Perez led the defense with seven tackles.Davis finished the night with 133 passing yards and 78 rushing yards for the Lopers. Jacey Nutter had 12 tackles for UNK. The Tigers host Washburn for Homecoming next Saturday . Kickoff is at 7 p.m. The Ichabods lost 42-35 at home to Emporia State and will bring a&nbsp; 3-2 record to Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 No. 23 Lopers pull away in the second to beat the Tigers

CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez had four hits and drove in a pair of runs, Kris Bubic struck out a season-high eight and the Kansas City Royals beat the AL Central champion Cleveland Guardians 7-1 on Saturday night.

Perez collected three singles and a solo homer in four plate appearances, spoiling the return of Cleveland right-hander Zach Plesac (3-12) following a one-month stay on the injured list with a broken pitching hand.

The Guardians will host either Toronto, Seattle or Tampa Bay in a best-of-three wild-card series next weekend. Cleveland has won 10 of 12 and is an MLB-best 21-5 since Sept. 5.

“It was a hard night to evaluate Zach,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said. “He wasn’t in midseason form, but it’s not fair to expect that to be the case. The good part was he feels like he can pitch without feeling like he’s rehabbing.”

Bubic (3-13) tossed five scoreless innings, allowing five hits, in snapping his career-long losing streak at seven. The left-hander had not won since July 24 against Tampa Bay, posting a 6.14 ERA over his previous 11 starts.

“They’re a pretty smart lineup and don’t strike out much, so it feels good to shut down a playoff team,” Bubic said. “Finishing like this doesn’t dismiss the rest of the year, but it gives a look at what could be in the future.”

Drew Waters homered for the second straight day, Kyle Isbel had a two-run double and MJ Melendez doubled twice for Kansas City. Bobby Witt Jr. singled and stole his AL rookie-leading 29th base.

Plesac was activated to make his first start since punching the mound in anger on Aug. 27 in Seattle. He gave up four runs, one earned, in 3 2/3 innings and will work out of the bullpen going forward.

“I’m going to embrace whatever role is given to me in the postseason,” Plesac said. “We’re going to do everything in our power to win and I’m going to do everything I can be to be as sharp as possible.”

Owen Miller doubled home Oscar Gonzalez in the sixth to pull Cleveland within 5-1, but Perez homered off Kirk McCarty in the seventh and Melendez scored on a fielder’s choice in the eighth for the Royals.

Perez’s home run gave him 1,274 career hits, moving into eighth place in Royals history. He was removed from the game following the at-bat because of discomfort in his surgically repaired left thumb.

“Salvy is special,” Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said. “He’s one of the most unique players I’ve ever been around in my entire life. He actually got banged up on his third hit, but stayed in and hit the homer onto the porch.”

Catcher Bo Naylor became the 17th Guardians player to make his major-league debut this season, equaling the franchise record set in 1912 and tied in 1914. He went 0 for 2 and threw out Isbel on an attempted steal of second.

Naylor’s older brother, Josh, is Cleveland’s primary first baseman. The last siblings with the franchise were Roberto and Sandy Alomar Jr. in 2000.

“We wanted to let the kid get some nerves out of the way tonight,” Francona said.

The Guardians selected the contract of Naylor from Triple-A Columbus, adding a third catcher to their roster. Naylor batted .263 with 21 homers, 68 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in 118 games, split between the Clippers and Double-A Akron.

RHP Bryan Shaw, who was 6-2 with a 5.40 ERA in 60 games, was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. A longtime Francona favorite, Shaw is Cleveland’s career leader with 517 relief appearances.

Guardians: 3B Gabriel Arias (right wrist bruise) was in the lineup and committed an error, one night after being hit by a Brady Singer pitch in the first inning. All-Star 3B José Ramírez was given the day off.

Royals: RHP Max Castillo (0-1, 4.98 ERA), acquired from Toronto as part of an Aug. 2 trade for Whit Merrifield, makes his fourth start with Kansas City. The rookie is 0-1 with a 3.43 ERA in six road appearances.

Guardians: RHP Shane Bieber (12-8, 2.91 ERA) has an 8-2 record with a 2.05 ERA and 85 strikeouts over his last 12 outings. The 2020 AL Cy Young winner will start Cleveland’s first postseason game on Oct. 7.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez had four hits and drove in a pair of runs, Kris Bubic struck out a season-high eight and the Kansas City Royals beat the AL Central champion Cleveland Guardians 7-1 on Saturday night.Perez collected three singles and a solo homer in four plate appearances, spoiling the return of Cleveland right-hander Zach Plesac (3-12) following a one-month stay on the injured list with a broken pitching hand.The Guardians will host either Toronto, Seattle or Tampa Bay in a best-of-three wild-card series next weekend. Cleveland has won 10 of 12 and is an MLB-best 21-5 since Sept. 5.“It was a hard night to evaluate Zach,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said. “He wasn’t in midseason form, but it’s not fair to expect that to be the case. The good part was he feels like he can pitch without feeling like he’s rehabbing.”Bubic (3-13) tossed five scoreless innings, allowing five hits, in snapping his career-long losing streak at seven. The left-hander had not won since July 24 against Tampa Bay, posting a 6.14 ERA over his previous 11 starts.“They’re a pretty smart lineup and don’t strike out much, so it feels good to shut down a playoff team,” Bubic said. “Finishing like this doesn’t dismiss the rest of the year, but it gives a look at what could be in the future.”Drew Waters homered for the second straight day, Kyle Isbel had a two-run double and MJ Melendez doubled twice for Kansas City. Bobby Witt Jr. singled and stole his AL rookie-leading 29th base.Plesac was activated to make his first start since punching the mound in anger on Aug. 27 in Seattle. He gave up four runs, one earned, in 3 2/3 innings and will work out of the bullpen going forward.“I’m going to embrace whatever role is given to me in the postseason,” Plesac said. “We’re going to do everything in our power to win and I’m going to do everything I can be to be as sharp as possible.”Owen Miller doubled home Oscar Gonzalez in the sixth to pull Cleveland within 5-1, but Perez homered off Kirk McCarty in the seventh and Melendez scored on a fielder’s choice in the eighth for the Royals.Perez’s home run gave him 1,274 career hits, moving into eighth place in Royals history. He was removed from the game following the at-bat because of discomfort in his surgically repaired left thumb.“Salvy is special,” Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said. “He’s one of the most unique players I’ve ever been around in my entire life. He actually got banged up on his third hit, but stayed in and hit the homer onto the porch.”Catcher Bo Naylor became the 17th Guardians player to make his major-league debut this season, equaling the franchise record set in 1912 and tied in 1914. He went 0 for 2 and threw out Isbel on an attempted steal of second.Naylor’s older brother, Josh, is Cleveland’s primary first baseman. The last siblings with the franchise were Roberto and Sandy Alomar Jr. in 2000.“We wanted to let the kid get some nerves out of the way tonight,” Francona said.COMING AND GOINGThe Guardians selected the contract of Naylor from Triple-A Columbus, adding a third catcher to their roster. Naylor batted .263 with 21 homers, 68 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in 118 games, split between the Clippers and Double-A Akron.RHP Bryan Shaw, who was 6-2 with a 5.40 ERA in 60 games, was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. A longtime Francona favorite, Shaw is Cleveland’s career leader with 517 relief appearances.TRAINER’S ROOMGuardians: 3B Gabriel Arias (right wrist bruise) was in the lineup and committed an error, one night after being hit by a Brady Singer pitch in the first inning. All-Star 3B José Ramírez was given the day off.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Max Castillo (0-1, 4.98 ERA), acquired from Toronto as part of an Aug. 2 trade for Whit Merrifield, makes his fourth start with Kansas City. The rookie is 0-1 with a 3.43 ERA in six road appearances.Guardians: RHP Shane Bieber (12-8, 2.91 ERA) has an 8-2 record with a 2.05 ERA and 85 strikeouts over his last 12 outings. The 2020 AL Cy Young winner will start Cleveland’s first postseason game on Oct. 7.

⚾ Perez has 4 hits, Royals beat AL Central champion Guardians

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jace Gilbert missed three field goals, including a 37-yarder with a chance to tie the game with under 30 seconds to play as Kansas held off Iowa State 14-11 on Saturday to remain undefeated.

At 5-0 overall, this is the Jayhawks' best start to the season since 2009 and just the second time in the last 14 years they’re 2-0 to begin Big 12 Conference play.

“This feels different because of what this group has been though," Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We've only been here 16 months and focusing on how we can improve, but I'm so happy for them because we can see what it does in the community, the stands, togetherness and these are great things to build upon.”

Jalon Daniels and Daniel Hishaw both scored rushing touchdowns for the Jayhawks, who were shut out in the second half, but did just enough to hang on for the victory.

“Before the season I said adversity is going to come at some point,” Daniels said. “We had some adversity today as an offense, but seeing the defense being able to come through when needed, we really love that.”

Daniels threw for 93 yards while Iowa State's Hunter Dekkers had 278 passing yards but threw a costly interception in the second quarter.

“They did a good job mixing things up with their different blitzes and we have a lot of things to clean up on the offensive end,” Dekkers said. “If we do that, we’ll be just fine. I was alright today, but I got some things I need to do better.”

Dekkers' interception in the second quarter ended up turning into a touchdown for the Jayhawks, a 2-yard run by Daniels for a 14-0 lead.

“I think the quarterback has to have great precision to detail,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “We'll have to look at the video tape and see what that looked like and he can continue to go forward. He had some positive moments and some moments he wants back.”

Iowa State got on the board just before halftime with Dekkers' 7-yard pass to Easton Dean. A two-point conversion after a botched PAT snap drew the Cyclones within 14-8.

Gilbert came into the game 5-for-5 on field goals for the Cyclones but missed two kicks off the post — one in the first quarter and another in the fourth — which proved costly.

The Cyclones didn't do hardly anything on the ground after Jirehl Brock left the game with an injury. The leading rusher for the Cyclones had just eight of Iowa State's 26 total yards on the ground.

“We won't know until early in the week,” Campbell said. “I don't think it's going to be lengthy more week-to-week.”

Kansas didn't score in the second half, but big defensive stops lead the Jayhawks to another victory for this upstart team.

“Based on what everyone thinks where this program was going to be, yeah, but we’ve got to finish this story and we have seven games to go,” Leipold said about the start of the season. “I said we weren't going to measure the improvement with the scoreboard last year and the improvement has helped the buy in and you start trying to find ways to win these close games.”

Iowa State: The Cyclones looked a bit out of sorts all day and probably could’ve won this game against lesser Kansas teams. It’s the first time the Cyclones have lost to Kansas since 2014.

Kansas: They did just enough to win this game and showed they can win a defensive battle after shootouts in their first four games of the season.

Kansas faces TCU at home on Saturday. Iowa State hosts Kansas State the same day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664667649800.png" alt="Kansas running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. (AP Photo Reed Hoffman)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. (AP Photo Reed Hoffman)</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jace Gilbert missed three field goals, including a 37-yarder with a chance to tie the game with under 30 seconds to play as Kansas held off Iowa State 14-11 on Saturday to remain undefeated.At 5-0 overall, this is the Jayhawks' best start to the season since 2009 and just the second time in the last 14 years they’re 2-0 to begin Big 12 Conference play.“This feels different because of what this group has been though," Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “We've only been here 16 months and focusing on how we can improve, but I'm so happy for them because we can see what it does in the community, the stands, togetherness and these are great things to build upon.”Jalon Daniels and Daniel Hishaw both scored rushing touchdowns for the Jayhawks, who were shut out in the second half, but did just enough to hang on for the victory.“Before the season I said adversity is going to come at some point,” Daniels said. “We had some adversity today as an offense, but seeing the defense being able to come through when needed, we really love that.”Daniels threw for 93 yards while Iowa State's Hunter Dekkers had 278 passing yards but threw a costly interception in the second quarter.“They did a good job mixing things up with their different blitzes and we have a lot of things to clean up on the offensive end,” Dekkers said. “If we do that, we’ll be just fine. I was alright today, but I got some things I need to do better.”Dekkers' interception in the second quarter ended up turning into a touchdown for the Jayhawks, a 2-yard run by Daniels for a 14-0 lead.“I think the quarterback has to have great precision to detail,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “We'll have to look at the video tape and see what that looked like and he can continue to go forward. He had some positive moments and some moments he wants back.”Iowa State got on the board just before halftime with Dekkers' 7-yard pass to Easton Dean. A two-point conversion after a botched PAT snap drew the Cyclones within 14-8.Gilbert came into the game 5-for-5 on field goals for the Cyclones but missed two kicks off the post — one in the first quarter and another in the fourth — which proved costly.The Cyclones didn't do hardly anything on the ground after Jirehl Brock left the game with an injury. The leading rusher for the Cyclones had just eight of Iowa State's 26 total yards on the ground.“We won't know until early in the week,” Campbell said. “I don't think it's going to be lengthy more week-to-week.”Kansas didn't score in the second half, but big defensive stops lead the Jayhawks to another victory for this upstart team.“Based on what everyone thinks where this program was going to be, yeah, but we’ve got to finish this story and we have seven games to go,” Leipold said about the start of the season. “I said we weren't going to measure the improvement with the scoreboard last year and the improvement has helped the buy in and you start trying to find ways to win these close games.”THE TAKEAWAYIowa State: The Cyclones looked a bit out of sorts all day and probably could’ve won this game against lesser Kansas teams. It’s the first time the Cyclones have lost to Kansas since 2014.Kansas: They did just enough to win this game and showed they can win a defensive battle after shootouts in their first four games of the season.UP NEXTKansas faces TCU at home on Saturday. Iowa State hosts Kansas State the same day.

🏈 Kansas slips past Iowa State to stay unbeaten

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — All it took was one play for Kansas State quarterback Adrian Martinez to set the tone against Texas Tech.

And that play was the first of Saturday's game — a 57-yard run that quickly put the Red Raiders on their heels.

“Explosive plays are a big stat for us,” said Martinez, who scored on an 18-yard run on the ensuing play. “It goes along with turnovers and a couple other key factors. It definitely helped us.”

Martinez rushed for 171 yards and three touchdowns and threw for another score to lead No. 25 Kansas State to a 37-28 victory. He was 12-for-19 passing for 116 yards for Kansas State (4-1, 2-0 Big 12), while Deuce Vaughn had 170 rushing yards for the Wildcats, who extended their winning streak against the Red Raiders to seven games.

Martinez and Vaughn combined for three runs of at least 50 yards, plus another that was nullified by a holding penalty.

“One of the things we talked about at halftime was we had to have some people step up and make some explosive plays,” Vaughn said. “That’s a testament to the O-linemen and the guys blocking downfield. They opened up some big holes.”

Donovan Smith was 34-for-48 passing for 359 yards and two TDs for Texas Tech (3-2, 1-1). Smith also rushed for a touchdown. But he was sacked six times, three each by Felix Anudike-Uzomah and Khalid Duke.

“We proved we’re a physical team and we’re not backing down on any competition,” Anudike-Uzomah said. “That’s what’s going to happen all season. Me and Khalid are going to take down every offense we come (against).”

The Wildcats also got a pair of field goals from Chris Tennant after drives stalled.

“We’ve got to find a way to play better early on the road,” Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “The guys fought back, got the score tied. But we’ve just got to do a better job playing cleaner early. You can’t come in and do that against a really good K-State team.”

Tech cut the lead to 13-7 with 1:24 left in the first half. After gaining just 48 yards of total offense, the Red Raiders went 86 yards on nine plays, capped by a 6-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Nehemiah Martinez.

Trey Wolff kicked a 51-yard field goal for Tech before the break, then tied the score at 20-20 with a 39-yard field goal midway through the third quarter.

“I’m proud of our guys’ resolve in the second half,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “We got off to a great start in the first half. We got up 13-0 and then played poorly in the second quarter. We got out of rhythm on offense and didn’t tackle well on defense. I was a little upset at halftime.

"We needed to stand up in the second half and show that people aren’t going to push us around at home. We played really well late in the third quarter and in the fourth quarter.”

K-State answered Tech’s field goal with its second two-play drive of the game. Vaughn ran 69 yards to the Tech 8-yard line on the first play after the kickoff. Following an offensive holding penalty, Martinez found Phillip Brooks with an 18-yard touchdown pass.

The lead didn’t last long, as Smith hit Xavier White with a 12-yard touchdown pass to cap a seven-play, 75-yard drive. Wolff missed a 42-yard field goal, denying Tech its first lead of the game.

Martinez then scored on his second big run of the day, 69 yards untouched up the middle.

“They decided to bring pressure," Martinez said. "If you do that, there’s no one left. Deuce was on a route. We kind of looked at each other and said, ‘It’s just me and you.’ ”

Tennant’s 32-yard field goal gave the Wildcats a 30-20 lead with 9:07 left. A fumble on the next series gave K-State the ball at the Tech 27-yard line and the Wildcats iced the game with Martinez’s third rushing touchdown.

Smith scored from 3 yards out for Tech’s final touchdown with 2:23 left.

Texas Tech: Smith can carry the Red Raiders on offense. The 6-foot-5 quarterback can sling it, but he also has the ability to carry defenders when he chooses to run.

Kansas State: The Wildcats have two great ballcarriers. Besides Vaughan, an All-American, Martinez can fool defenses with his elusiveness.

Texas Tech travels to Stillwater, Okla., to face Oklahoma State.

Kansas State travels to Ames, Iowa, to take on Iowa State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664654555838.png" alt="Kansas State quarterback Adrian Martinez (Charlie Riedel AP)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State quarterback Adrian Martinez (Charlie Riedel AP)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — All it took was one play for Kansas State quarterback Adrian Martinez to set the tone against Texas Tech.And that play was the first of Saturday's game — a 57-yard run that quickly put the Red Raiders on their heels.“Explosive plays are a big stat for us,” said Martinez, who scored on an 18-yard run on the ensuing play. “It goes along with turnovers and a couple other key factors. It definitely helped us.”Martinez rushed for 171 yards and three touchdowns and threw for another score to lead No. 25 Kansas State to a 37-28 victory. He was 12-for-19 passing for 116 yards for Kansas State (4-1, 2-0 Big 12), while Deuce Vaughn had 170 rushing yards for the Wildcats, who extended their winning streak against the Red Raiders to seven games.Martinez and Vaughn combined for three runs of at least 50 yards, plus another that was nullified by a holding penalty.“One of the things we talked about at halftime was we had to have some people step up and make some explosive plays,” Vaughn said. “That’s a testament to the O-linemen and the guys blocking downfield. They opened up some big holes.”Donovan Smith was 34-for-48 passing for 359 yards and two TDs for Texas Tech (3-2, 1-1). Smith also rushed for a touchdown. But he was sacked six times, three each by Felix Anudike-Uzomah and Khalid Duke.“We proved we’re a physical team and we’re not backing down on any competition,” Anudike-Uzomah said. “That’s what’s going to happen all season. Me and Khalid are going to take down every offense we come (against).”The Wildcats also got a pair of field goals from Chris Tennant after drives stalled.“We’ve got to find a way to play better early on the road,” Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “The guys fought back, got the score tied. But we’ve just got to do a better job playing cleaner early. You can’t come in and do that against a really good K-State team.”Tech cut the lead to 13-7 with 1:24 left in the first half. After gaining just 48 yards of total offense, the Red Raiders went 86 yards on nine plays, capped by a 6-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Nehemiah Martinez.Trey Wolff kicked a 51-yard field goal for Tech before the break, then tied the score at 20-20 with a 39-yard field goal midway through the third quarter.“I’m proud of our guys’ resolve in the second half,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “We got off to a great start in the first half. We got up 13-0 and then played poorly in the second quarter. We got out of rhythm on offense and didn’t tackle well on defense. I was a little upset at halftime."We needed to stand up in the second half and show that people aren’t going to push us around at home. We played really well late in the third quarter and in the fourth quarter.”K-State answered Tech’s field goal with its second two-play drive of the game. Vaughn ran 69 yards to the Tech 8-yard line on the first play after the kickoff. Following an offensive holding penalty, Martinez found Phillip Brooks with an 18-yard touchdown pass.The lead didn’t last long, as Smith hit Xavier White with a 12-yard touchdown pass to cap a seven-play, 75-yard drive. Wolff missed a 42-yard field goal, denying Tech its first lead of the game.Martinez then scored on his second big run of the day, 69 yards untouched up the middle.“They decided to bring pressure," Martinez said. "If you do that, there’s no one left. Deuce was on a route. We kind of looked at each other and said, ‘It’s just me and you.’ ”Tennant’s 32-yard field goal gave the Wildcats a 30-20 lead with 9:07 left. A fumble on the next series gave K-State the ball at the Tech 27-yard line and the Wildcats iced the game with Martinez’s third rushing touchdown.Smith scored from 3 yards out for Tech’s final touchdown with 2:23 left.THE TAKEAWAYTexas Tech: Smith can carry the Red Raiders on offense. The 6-foot-5 quarterback can sling it, but he also has the ability to carry defenders when he chooses to run.Kansas State: The Wildcats have two great ballcarriers. Besides Vaughan, an All-American, Martinez can fool defenses with his elusiveness.UP NEXTTexas Tech travels to Stillwater, Okla., to face Oklahoma State.Kansas State travels to Ames, Iowa, to take on Iowa State.

🏈 No. 25 Kansas State holds off Texas Tech

HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team fell in straight sets Saturday afternoon against Northwest Missouri State, 14-25, 10-25, 21-25. The Tigers (6-10, 1-7 MIAA) led early in the first set and for much of the third set, but the Bearcats (12-4, 6-2) used an efficient offensive attack to take the match in three sets. The Bearcats pulled away midway through the opening set with a 10-3 run before scoring 12 of the first 14 points in the second set to quickly lead by 10. Fort Hays State kept things close in the third set, taking an early lead and hanging on until a late Bearcat rally. The Tigers led by as many as three, 17-14, before NWMSU scored four in a row to take the lead. Fort Hays State tied things up at 18 before Northwest scored seven of the final 10 points to complete the victory. After totaling 12 errors across the first two sets, Fort Hays State committed just three in the third set. The Tigers combined for an attack percentage of .270 in the final set and .134 for the match, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6663">Morgan Christiansen</a>&nbsp;leading the way with eight kills and just one error on 16 swings (.438).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6836">Gracie Rains</a>&nbsp;chipped in seven kills, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6666">Mykah Eshbaugh</a>&nbsp;had five. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6667">Jaida Felix</a>&nbsp;paced the team with 17 assists and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6664">Jaden Daffer</a>&nbsp;led the way with 10 digs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6834">Kirsten Evans</a>&nbsp;tallied a pair of service aces, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6674">Riley Tinder</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6665">Emily Ellis</a>&nbsp;each adding one ace. Fort Hays State is back in action Tuesday (Oct. 4) when the Tigers host Emporia State beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664693560690.jpeg" alt="Kirsten Evans serves for FHSU in their match with Northwest Missouri State Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum . (FHSU photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Kirsten Evans serves for FHSU in their match with Northwest Missouri State Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum . (FHSU photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team fell in straight sets Saturday afternoon against Northwest Missouri State, 14-25, 10-25, 21-25. The Tigers (6-10, 1-7 MIAA) led early in the first set and for much of the third set, but the Bearcats (12-4, 6-2) used an efficient offensive attack to take the match in three sets. The Bearcats pulled away midway through the opening set with a 10-3 run before scoring 12 of the first 14 points in the second set to quickly lead by 10. Fort Hays State kept things close in the third set, taking an early lead and hanging on until a late Bearcat rally. The Tigers led by as many as three, 17-14, before NWMSU scored four in a row to take the lead. Fort Hays State tied things up at 18 before Northwest scored seven of the final 10 points to complete the victory. After totaling 12 errors across the first two sets, Fort Hays State committed just three in the third set. The Tigers combined for an attack percentage of .270 in the final set and .134 for the match, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6663">Morgan Christiansen</a>&nbsp;leading the way with eight kills and just one error on 16 swings (.438).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6836">Gracie Rains</a>&nbsp;chipped in seven kills, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6666">Mykah Eshbaugh</a>&nbsp;had five. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6667">Jaida Felix</a>&nbsp;paced the team with 17 assists and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6664">Jaden Daffer</a>&nbsp;led the way with 10 digs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6834">Kirsten Evans</a>&nbsp;tallied a pair of service aces, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6674">Riley Tinder</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6665">Emily Ellis</a>&nbsp;each adding one ace. Fort Hays State is back in action Tuesday (Oct. 4) when the Tigers host Emporia State beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏐 Tigers fall in three to No. 10 Bearcats

HAYS, Kan. - The No. 24 ranked Fort Hays State men's soccer team defeated No. 16 ranked Northeastern State 2-1 on Saturday (Oct. 1). The teams traded scores early in the first half, but the Tigers found the net once more in the waning minutes of the match to secure the win. FHSU improved to 7-2-3 (5-0-1 GAC), while NSU took its second loss of the season and fell to 5-2-2 (3-1-1 GAC). The RiverHawks took an early lead as a shot from Flynn Semerling was saved by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6644">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;and deflected to Miguel Torres who drove the ball into the net in the 11th&nbsp;minute. FHSU found the equalizer in the 15th&nbsp;minute when a well-executed chain of passes from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6648">Ethan Doud</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7073">Sean Thomson</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6640">Blake Arndt</a>&nbsp;who sent a missile past the keeper inside the box for his sixth score of the season. At the end of the first half, the Tigers had the edge in the shot battle 5-4 and both keepers had a pair of saves. In the second half, the RiverHawks were much more active on offense taking 12 shots and placed six on goal. Both squads put together several charges down the field, but were unable to find the net. In the 89th&nbsp;minute, the Tigers finally broke through on a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7066">Jackson Elgas</a>, redirected by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6932">Callum Frogson</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6652">Tyler Lockhart</a>&nbsp;who snuck the ball past the keeper to secure the win for the Tigers. NSU held the advantage with 16 shots compared to 11 by FHSU.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6644">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;posted a stellar performance between the posts collecting nine saves compared to three by NSU keeper Niklas Kirhoff. With the win, the Tigers sit alone atop the GAC/MIAA standings with 16 points generated so far. The Tigers will play only one match next week when they travel to Wichita on Saturday (Oct. 8) to take on Newman University at 3 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664693296056.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The No. 24 ranked Fort Hays State men's soccer team defeated No. 16 ranked Northeastern State 2-1 on Saturday (Oct. 1). The teams traded scores early in the first half, but the Tigers found the net once more in the waning minutes of the match to secure the win. FHSU improved to 7-2-3 (5-0-1 GAC), while NSU took its second loss of the season and fell to 5-2-2 (3-1-1 GAC). The RiverHawks took an early lead as a shot from Flynn Semerling was saved by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6644">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;and deflected to Miguel Torres who drove the ball into the net in the 11th&nbsp;minute. FHSU found the equalizer in the 15th&nbsp;minute when a well-executed chain of passes from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6648">Ethan Doud</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7073">Sean Thomson</a>&nbsp;found&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6640">Blake Arndt</a>&nbsp;who sent a missile past the keeper inside the box for his sixth score of the season. At the end of the first half, the Tigers had the edge in the shot battle 5-4 and both keepers had a pair of saves. In the second half, the RiverHawks were much more active on offense taking 12 shots and placed six on goal. Both squads put together several charges down the field, but were unable to find the net. In the 89th&nbsp;minute, the Tigers finally broke through on a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7066">Jackson Elgas</a>, redirected by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6932">Callum Frogson</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6652">Tyler Lockhart</a>&nbsp;who snuck the ball past the keeper to secure the win for the Tigers. NSU held the advantage with 16 shots compared to 11 by FHSU.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6644">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;posted a stellar performance between the posts collecting nine saves compared to three by NSU keeper Niklas Kirhoff. With the win, the Tigers sit alone atop the GAC/MIAA standings with 16 points generated so far. The Tigers will play only one match next week when they travel to Wichita on Saturday (Oct. 8) to take on Newman University at 3 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Late goal lifts No. 24 Tigers past 16th-ranked RiverHawks

Fort Hays State (1-3) at #23/19 Nebraska-Kearney (3-1) Saturday, October 1 - 7 p.m. Kearney, Neb. - Cope Stadium Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM)

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a> Fort Hays State Football returns to action on Saturday in Kearney, Neb. The Tigers face the No. 23/19 ranked Lopers of Nebraska-Kearney at 7 p.m. at Cope Stadium. Fort Hays State is looking for a 10th-consecutive win over UNK, winning nine straight in the series between the schools going back to 2012. The Tigers are 9-0 against the Lopers in MIAA play. UNK joined the conference in 2012 and has yet to defeat FHSU since the transition from the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. The last win for UNK was in 2005, when both FHSU and UNK were members of the RMAC. Last year in Hays, the Tigers stormed back from a 21-0 halftime deficit to defeat the Lopers 42-35. The Lopers were ranked No. 12 in the nation during that meeting. The Tigers scored touchdowns on their first six possessions of the second half to get past the Lopers. The last meeting between the teams in Kearney occurred in 2018. The Tigers pulled out a double overtime thriller by a score of 29-26 before eventually winning a share of the MIAA title that year. The last four meetings in Kearney have been decided by 10 points or less. In his three starts at quarterback,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6719">Jack Dawson</a>&nbsp;has thrown for over 200 yards each game and has thrown four touchdowns to just one interception. He also has 62 rushing yards and three touchdowns scored on foot.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6766">Adrian Soto</a>&nbsp;leads the Tiger rushing attack with 252 yards on 43 carries, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6753">Manny Ramsey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6704">Hunter Budke</a>&nbsp;are the top receivers for the Tigers. Ramsey has 18 catches for 275 yards and Budke has 14 for 228. Defensively,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6792">Makel Williams</a>&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers in tackles with 29 followed by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6752">Mason Perez</a>&nbsp;with 27. Williams has posted at least seven tackles in all four games this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6910">Jeremiah Jackson-Trotter</a>&nbsp;leads the team and MIAA in sacks with five.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664568126888.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Madison Shapland</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State (1-3) at #23/19 Nebraska-Kearney (3-1) Saturday, October 1 - 7 p.m. Kearney, Neb. - Cope Stadium Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM)<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a> Fort Hays State Football returns to action on Saturday in Kearney, Neb. The Tigers face the No. 23/19 ranked Lopers of Nebraska-Kearney at 7 p.m. at Cope Stadium. Fort Hays State is looking for a 10th-consecutive win over UNK, winning nine straight in the series between the schools going back to 2012. The Tigers are 9-0 against the Lopers in MIAA play. UNK joined the conference in 2012 and has yet to defeat FHSU since the transition from the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. The last win for UNK was in 2005, when both FHSU and UNK were members of the RMAC. Last year in Hays, the Tigers stormed back from a 21-0 halftime deficit to defeat the Lopers 42-35. The Lopers were ranked No. 12 in the nation during that meeting. The Tigers scored touchdowns on their first six possessions of the second half to get past the Lopers. The last meeting between the teams in Kearney occurred in 2018. The Tigers pulled out a double overtime thriller by a score of 29-26 before eventually winning a share of the MIAA title that year. The last four meetings in Kearney have been decided by 10 points or less. In his three starts at quarterback,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6719">Jack Dawson</a>&nbsp;has thrown for over 200 yards each game and has thrown four touchdowns to just one interception. He also has 62 rushing yards and three touchdowns scored on foot.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6766">Adrian Soto</a>&nbsp;leads the Tiger rushing attack with 252 yards on 43 carries, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6753">Manny Ramsey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6704">Hunter Budke</a>&nbsp;are the top receivers for the Tigers. Ramsey has 18 catches for 275 yards and Budke has 14 for 228. Defensively,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6792">Makel Williams</a>&nbsp;continues to lead the Tigers in tackles with 29 followed by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6752">Mason Perez</a>&nbsp;with 27. Williams has posted at least seven tackles in all four games this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6910">Jeremiah Jackson-Trotter</a>&nbsp;leads the team and MIAA in sacks with five.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎧 LISTEN - Tigers face No. 23 Lopers in Kearney

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus discusses Kansas City's 20-17 loss in Indianapolis last Sunday and previews their Sunday night matchup in Tampa vs. The Buccaneers.

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

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus discusses Kansas City's 20-17 loss in Indianapolis last Sunday and previews their Sunday night matchup in Tampa vs. The Buccaneers.The Holthus Hotline airs Saturday mornings 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/1354348192%3Fsecret_token%3Ds-0W3FK61L2uU&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-oct-1-2022/s-0W3FK61L2uU" title="Holthus Hotline (Oct 1, 2022)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Holthus Hotline (Oct 1, 2022)</a></div></div>

🎧 Holthus Hotline with Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus

By DR. KARISSA NIEHOFF and&nbsp;BILL FAFLICK

There’s
 an unfortunate trend continuing&nbsp;in&nbsp;Kansas and across the nation that 
must be stopped: the bad behavior of coaches, parents and fans at high 
school athletic events.

We’ve all seen it: the yelling, harassing,
 berating, disrespecting and even physically assaulting high school 
referees, umpires and other officials during and after games. And 
oftentimes, the harassment continues on social media. Perhaps you’ve 
witnessed it firsthand or even been one of those offenders yourself.

Not
 only is this behavior unacceptable and embarrassing, but it’s also 
having serious consequences on the future of high school sports.

That’s
 because another unfortunate trend is sweeping the nation: a&nbsp;critical 
shortage of high school officials in every state. The No. 1 reason? You 
guessed it: Coaches, parents and fans mistreating officials.

National surveys of officials report alarming statistics:

• 55% of officials say verbal abuse from coaches, parents and fans is the No. 1 reason they quit.

• 57% think sportsmanship is getting worse.

• 84% feel officials are treated unfairly by spectators.

• 46% have felt unsafe or feared for their safety due to spectator, coach, administrator or player behavior.

Officials
 are quitting faster than new ones are signing up. It’s a major area of 
concern for states like Kansas just to cover games. We’re already seeing
 middle school and JV games being cancelled and, in some cases, varsity 
games have to be rescheduled or not played. All because there aren’t 
enough officials.

Unfortunately, bad behavior&nbsp;at high school 
athletic events&nbsp;has become normalized. It is almost expected that 
coaches, parents and fans will disrespect the individuals serving as 
officials.

This culture of bad behavior and the negative 
perception of officials must change now. Everyone involved in high 
school sports—parents, coaches, administrators, fans, the media—must 
turn their focus to the student-athletes playing the games and away from
 the individuals officiating the contests.

The bottom line: With no high school officials, there can be no high school sports.

That’s
 why the KSHSAA is partnering with the NFHS and other state high school 
associations across the country to launch the nationwide&nbsp;#BenchBadBehavior&nbsp;campaign.
 We’ll use the power of social media along with other tools to help 
educate everyone about the importance of good behavior at high school 
athletic events.

You can help by being a positive role model at 
your high school’s athletic events. And if you think you have what it 
takes to be a licensed official, sign up today at&nbsp;<a href="http://HighSchoolOfficials.com">HighSchoolOfficials.com</a>&nbsp;and help fill an urgent need&nbsp;in&nbsp;Kansas!

Dr. Karrissa Niehoff is&nbsp;chief executive officer of the National Federation of State High School Associations. Bill Faflick is executive director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664375207652.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By DR. KARISSA NIEHOFF and&nbsp;BILL FAFLICK There’s
 an unfortunate trend continuing&nbsp;in&nbsp;Kansas and across the nation that 
must be stopped: the bad behavior of coaches, parents and fans at high 
school athletic events.We’ve all seen it: the yelling, harassing,
 berating, disrespecting and even physically assaulting high school 
referees, umpires and other officials during and after games. And 
oftentimes, the harassment continues on social media. Perhaps you’ve 
witnessed it firsthand or even been one of those offenders yourself.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Not
 only is this behavior unacceptable and embarrassing, but it’s also 
having serious consequences on the future of high school sports.That’s
 because another unfortunate trend is sweeping the nation: a&nbsp;critical 
shortage of high school officials in every state. The No. 1 reason? You 
guessed it: Coaches, parents and fans mistreating officials.National surveys of officials report alarming statistics:• 55% of officials say verbal abuse from coaches, parents and fans is the No. 1 reason they quit.• 59% don’t feel respected.• 57% think sportsmanship is getting worse.• 84% feel officials are treated unfairly by spectators.• 46% have felt unsafe or feared for their safety due to spectator, coach, administrator or player behavior.Officials
 are quitting faster than new ones are signing up. It’s a major area of 
concern for states like Kansas just to cover games. We’re already seeing
 middle school and JV games being cancelled and, in some cases, varsity 
games have to be rescheduled or not played. All because there aren’t 
enough officials.Unfortunately, bad behavior&nbsp;at high school 
athletic events&nbsp;has become normalized. It is almost expected that 
coaches, parents and fans will disrespect the individuals serving as 
officials.This culture of bad behavior and the negative 
perception of officials must change now. Everyone involved in high 
school sports—parents, coaches, administrators, fans, the media—must 
turn their focus to the student-athletes playing the games and away from
 the individuals officiating the contests.The bottom line: With no high school officials, there can be no high school sports.That’s
 why the KSHSAA is partnering with the NFHS and other state high school 
associations across the country to launch the nationwide&nbsp;#BenchBadBehavior&nbsp;campaign.
 We’ll use the power of social media along with other tools to help 
educate everyone about the importance of good behavior at high school 
athletic events.You can help by being a positive role model at 
your high school’s athletic events. And if you think you have what it 
takes to be a licensed official, sign up today at&nbsp;<a href="http://HighSchoolOfficials.com">HighSchoolOfficials.com</a>&nbsp;and help fill an urgent need&nbsp;in&nbsp;Kansas!Dr. Karrissa Niehoff is&nbsp;chief executive officer of the National Federation of State High School Associations. Bill Faflick is executive director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.

ENOUGH: Bad behavior by coaches, parents, fans must stop

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs offense was held out of the end
zone for the second straight week as they fall to the Russell Broncos 22-0 in
their district opener Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.

The defenses dominated the first half of the game with the two
teams combining for four turnover on downs, three punts and an interception,

Twice TMP (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 0-1 2A District 8) was able to
drive into Russell territory in the first quarter but both drives stalled and
resulted in a turnover on downs.

With just under a minute to play in the first half TMP
pinned Russell (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 1-1 2A District 8) inside their own five-yard
line but it took Russell just two plays to score the game’s first touchdown.

Russell quarterback found Jace Peerman open over the top of
the TMP defense for a 76-yard touchdown with just 12 second left in the first
half giving Russell a 7-0 lead at the break.

TMP began the second half with the football but a Russell
interception of quarterback Carson Liles, the first of two in the second half,
set the Broncos up inside the TMP 15 yard line.

Two plays later Peerman hauled in his second touchdown catch
of the game, this one from 15 yards out for a 13-0 Russell lead.

TMP tried to answer back stringing together a 14-play drive
that erased more than nine minutes off the clock but they turned it over at the
Russell six-yard line. 

Russell drove the length of the field on their next drive
and Jacob Ney scored from a yard out for a 19-0 Russell lead.

The Broncos added a 31-yard Charles Krug field goal to go up
22-0 and TMP never threatened the rest of the way suffering the second straight
loss.

Russell outgained TMP 331 to 163 total yards. 

TMP travels to Phillipsburg next week for a second straight
district game.

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs offense was held out of the end
zone for the second straight week as they fall to the Russell Broncos 22-0 in
their district opener Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.<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/1354648153&color=%23294b71&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-814667509/09-30-22-tmp-coach-interview" title="09-30-22 TMP coach Jay Harris" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">09-30-22 TMP coach Jay Harris</a></div></div>The defenses dominated the first half of the game with the two
teams combining for four turnover on downs, three punts and an interception,Twice TMP (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 0-1 2A District 8) was able to
drive into Russell territory in the first quarter but both drives stalled and
resulted in a turnover on downs.With just under a minute to play in the first half TMP
pinned Russell (3-2, 3-1 MCL, 1-1 2A District 8) inside their own five-yard
line but it took Russell just two plays to score the game’s first touchdown.Russell quarterback found Jace Peerman open over the top of
the TMP defense for a 76-yard touchdown with just 12 second left in the first
half giving Russell a 7-0 lead at the break.TMP began the second half with the football but a Russell
interception of quarterback Carson Liles, the first of two in the second half,
set the Broncos up inside the TMP 15 yard line.Two plays later Peerman hauled in his second touchdown catch
of the game, this one from 15 yards out for a 13-0 Russell lead.TMP tried to answer back stringing together a 14-play drive
that erased more than nine minutes off the clock but they turned it over at the
Russell six-yard line. Russell drove the length of the field on their next drive
and Jacob Ney scored from a yard out for a 19-0 Russell lead.The Broncos added a 31-yard Charles Krug field goal to go up
22-0 and TMP never threatened the rest of the way suffering the second straight
loss.Russell outgained TMP 331 to 163 total yards. TMP travels to Phillipsburg next week for a second straight
district game.

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