LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Wins have been so rare at Kansas over the last decade-plus that it wasn't too surprising when students spilled from the stands and rushed the field to celebrate Lance Leipold's first victory as head coach of the Jayhawks.

Who cares if it came against lower-level South Dakota?

It wasn't easy, either. Jason Bean connected with Lawrence Arnold for their second touchdown of the game, giving the Jayhawks the lead back with 1:12 remaining Friday night, and their rebuilt defense held the Coyotes on downs to preserve a nervy 17-14 victory that brought an end to a 13-game skid dating to Oct. 26, 2019.

“Right now we're not going to get concerned about style points and things like that. We needed to get a win,” Leipold said. “Getting a victory was first and foremost right now and as I said, then we go to the film and work to get better.”

The Coyotes, who trailed 10-0 late in the third quarter, had pulled ahead when Kansas native Travis Theis ran 25 yards for a score with 5:16 to go. But the Jayhawks answered by driving 64 yards in less than four minutes, converting fourth-and-10 along the way and getting some help from a targeting penalty on South Dakota freshman Myles Harden.

Then the touchdown pass to Arnold that set off the wild celebration.

“I feel like it was never in doubt about us coming back,” Arnold said. “There's always momentum changes in the game, it's about how you respond. We never looked at it like we couldn't come back or couldn't do this.”

Bean, the North Texas transfer, also found Arnold for a score late in the second quarter. He finished 17 of 26 for 163 yards while adding 54 yards on the ground. But he didn't get much help from the rest of the offense — Velton Gardner carried 19 times for 21 yards, and the Jayhawks' rebuilt offensive line provided little resistance.

“We didn’t run the ball the way we hoped. I’m not going to make any statements about where we’re at without watching the film,” Leipold said. “To be a better offensive football team, we’re going to have to play better as a unit. But again, this gives us an idea of what we need to work on.”

South Dakota couldn't take advantage of it, though.

The Coyotes, who have beaten Minnesota and Bowling Green over the years, were penalized eight times, went 3 for 13 on third down and 0 for 3 on fourth. Carson Camp was just 10-for-22 passing for 98 yards.

Leipold was hired earlier this year when Les Miles, the latest in a growing list of failed Kansas coaches, resigned following sexual harassment allegations dating to his national championship-winning tenure at LSU.

A longtime Division III coach, Leipold promised to bring along fundamentally sound football, relying on the same formula that produced six lower-level national titles in eight seasons and an impressive turnaround at Buffalo.

Instead, the Jayhawks mostly looked like the same team that hasn't had a winning season in more than a decade.

They went three-and-out on their first three possessions, a streak of ignominy interrupted only by two false start penalties, and by the end of the first quarter had more penalty yards (20) than yards of offense (18). And after taking a 10-0 lead on Bean's TD pass to Arnold and Jacob Borcila's field goal, their meager advantage was quickly wiped out.

South Dakota's first score came when Lawrence made a defender whiff in the defensive backfield and scooted 29 yards late in the third quarter. Then, after the Coyotes stuffed Kansas on fourth-and-inches at their own 46-yard line, Theis took a handoff two plays later 25 yards for a touchdown and their first lead of the night.

The Jayhawks managed to answer down the stretch to avoid an embarrassing start to Leipold's time in Lawrence.

“This is about a program, not a coach,” Leipold said, “and were going to work to build on this, but to see the excitement from the fans and even from the staff members will always be memorable.”

South Dakota gained 165 yards rushing and two touchdowns, but they couldn't sustain drives when it mattered. But at least the Coyotes got to play; they went 1-3 in the spring with five games canceled due to the pandemic.

Kansas nearly paid $450,000 for South Dakota to come into Memorial Stadium and deal it a defeat. It was nevertheless a good barometer for Leipold of just how far his coaching staff needs to go to turn around a downtrodden program. Kansas hasn't won more than three games in a season since 2009, the final year of Mark Mangino's tenure.

South Dakota plays its home opener against Northern Arizona next Saturday.

Kansas visits No. 22 Coastal Carolina next week for another Friday night game.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Wins have been so rare at Kansas over the last decade-plus that it wasn't too surprising when students spilled from the stands and rushed the field to celebrate Lance Leipold's first victory as head coach of the Jayhawks.Who cares if it came against lower-level South Dakota?It wasn't easy, either. Jason Bean connected with Lawrence Arnold for their second touchdown of the game, giving the Jayhawks the lead back with 1:12 remaining Friday night, and their rebuilt defense held the Coyotes on downs to preserve a nervy 17-14 victory that brought an end to a 13-game skid dating to Oct. 26, 2019.“Right now we're not going to get concerned about style points and things like that. We needed to get a win,” Leipold said. “Getting a victory was first and foremost right now and as I said, then we go to the film and work to get better.”The Coyotes, who trailed 10-0 late in the third quarter, had pulled ahead when Kansas native Travis Theis ran 25 yards for a score with 5:16 to go. But the Jayhawks answered by driving 64 yards in less than four minutes, converting fourth-and-10 along the way and getting some help from a targeting penalty on South Dakota freshman Myles Harden.Then the touchdown pass to Arnold that set off the wild celebration.“I feel like it was never in doubt about us coming back,” Arnold said. “There's always momentum changes in the game, it's about how you respond. We never looked at it like we couldn't come back or couldn't do this.”Bean, the North Texas transfer, also found Arnold for a score late in the second quarter. He finished 17 of 26 for 163 yards while adding 54 yards on the ground. But he didn't get much help from the rest of the offense — Velton Gardner carried 19 times for 21 yards, and the Jayhawks' rebuilt offensive line provided little resistance.“We didn’t run the ball the way we hoped. I’m not going to make any statements about where we’re at without watching the film,” Leipold said. “To be a better offensive football team, we’re going to have to play better as a unit. But again, this gives us an idea of what we need to work on.”South Dakota couldn't take advantage of it, though.The Coyotes, who have beaten Minnesota and Bowling Green over the years, were penalized eight times, went 3 for 13 on third down and 0 for 3 on fourth. Carson Camp was just 10-for-22 passing for 98 yards.Leipold was hired earlier this year when Les Miles, the latest in a growing list of failed Kansas coaches, resigned following sexual harassment allegations dating to his national championship-winning tenure at LSU.A longtime Division III coach, Leipold promised to bring along fundamentally sound football, relying on the same formula that produced six lower-level national titles in eight seasons and an impressive turnaround at Buffalo.Instead, the Jayhawks mostly looked like the same team that hasn't had a winning season in more than a decade.They went three-and-out on their first three possessions, a streak of ignominy interrupted only by two false start penalties, and by the end of the first quarter had more penalty yards (20) than yards of offense (18). And after taking a 10-0 lead on Bean's TD pass to Arnold and Jacob Borcila's field goal, their meager advantage was quickly wiped out.South Dakota's first score came when Lawrence made a defender whiff in the defensive backfield and scooted 29 yards late in the third quarter. Then, after the Coyotes stuffed Kansas on fourth-and-inches at their own 46-yard line, Theis took a handoff two plays later 25 yards for a touchdown and their first lead of the night.The Jayhawks managed to answer down the stretch to avoid an embarrassing start to Leipold's time in Lawrence.“This is about a program, not a coach,” Leipold said, “and were going to work to build on this, but to see the excitement from the fans and even from the staff members will always be memorable.”THE TAKEAWAYSouth Dakota gained 165 yards rushing and two touchdowns, but they couldn't sustain drives when it mattered. But at least the Coyotes got to play; they went 1-3 in the spring with five games canceled due to the pandemic.Kansas nearly paid $450,000 for South Dakota to come into Memorial Stadium and deal it a defeat. It was nevertheless a good barometer for Leipold of just how far his coaching staff needs to go to turn around a downtrodden program. Kansas hasn't won more than three games in a season since 2009, the final year of Mark Mangino's tenure.UP NEXTSouth Dakota plays its home opener against Northern Arizona next Saturday.Kansas visits No. 22 Coastal Carolina next week for another Friday night game.

🏈 Kansas scores late to beat S. Dakota in Leipold debut

Hays High opened the 2021 season with Wichita East on Friday night at Lewis Field Stadium.

Jaren Kanak scored on a 52 yard run just three plays into the season. A Jack Fields extra point capped the drive for a 7-0 lead. That would be all the points the Indians would muster in the first half. Hays drove to the Blue Aces' seven yard line in the second quarter, but a pair of penalties thwarted the chance to score. The final two possessions of the second quarter started in East territory but never gained traction.

The Indian's defense held East to just 52 total yards in the first half. The Indians recorded six tackles for loss and grabbed an interception in the first twenty-four minutes of the game.

The Indians blew the game open in the third quarter. Hays scored on a Malik Bah 12 yard touchdown run with 7:22 on the clock. Gavin Meyers recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff. Kanak pushed the lead to 21-0 on a 17 yard run with 7:01 on the clock.

Hays scored two more times in the quarter. Kanak scored on a highlight reel 54 yard run and then hit Jordan Dale for a 98 yard pass and 35-6 lead. The four touchdowns took a total of 6:54 of game time.

East scored their lone touchdown with 54 seconds left in the third quarter for the final 35-6 difference.

Jaren Kanak ran for 240 yards and three scores while throwing for 166 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

The game featured 34 penalties for 285 yards.

The Indians are 1-0 on the season and host Great Bend next week. Wichita East falls to 0-1.

Hays High opened the 2021 season with Wichita East on Friday night at Lewis Field Stadium.Jaren Kanak scored on a 52 yard run just three plays into the season. A Jack Fields extra point capped the drive for a 7-0 lead. That would be all the points the Indians would muster in the first half. Hays drove to the Blue Aces' seven yard line in the second quarter, but a pair of penalties thwarted the chance to score. The final two possessions of the second quarter started in East territory but never gained traction.The Indian's defense held East to just 52 total yards in the first half. The Indians recorded six tackles for loss and grabbed an interception in the first twenty-four minutes of the game.Highlights<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/1118529601&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&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-814667509/09-03-21-hhs-fb-vs-wichita-east-highlights" title="09 - 03 - 21 HHS FB Vs Wichita East Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">09 - 03 - 21 HHS FB Vs Wichita East Highlights</a></div></div>The Indians blew the game open in the third quarter. Hays scored on a Malik Bah 12 yard touchdown run with 7:22 on the clock. Gavin Meyers recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff. Kanak pushed the lead to 21-0 on a 17 yard run with 7:01 on the clock.Hays scored two more times in the quarter. Kanak scored on a highlight reel 54 yard run and then hit Jordan Dale for a 98 yard pass and 35-6 lead. The four touchdowns took a total of 6:54 of game time.Coach Tony Crough<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/1118529583&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&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-814667509/09-03-21-coach-tony-crough-interview" title="09-03-21 Coach Tony Crough Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">09-03-21 Coach Tony Crough Interview</a></div></div>East scored their lone touchdown with 54 seconds left in the third quarter for the final 35-6 difference.Jaren Kanak ran for 240 yards and three scores while throwing for 166 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.The Indians totaled 472 yards.The game featured 34 penalties for 285 yards.The Indians are 1-0 on the season and host Great Bend next week. Wichita East falls to 0-1.

🏈 Hays opens with win over Wichita East

KEARNEY, Neb. - After waiting an additional year to open his final year of cross country,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;made sure to start things off on the right foot. The Topeka, Kan. senior took first place at the UNK Invitational on Friday (Sept. 3), helping the Tigers to a second-place finish in the team race. Schmidt traversed the six-kilometer course at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in 18:05.3, nearly five seconds faster than the second-place finisher. Fellow senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;was the next Tiger to cross the line, placing 13th with a time of 19:22.4. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;finished in consecutive order to round out the Tiger scoring five, placing 15th, 16th and 17th respectively. Pfizenmaier recorded a time of 19:23.6, with Estrada following in 19:32.2 and Estrada crossing the line in 19:44.7. The host Lopers won the team title with 26 points. The Tigers will return to the course in two weeks when they travel to Denver, Colo. for the Roadrunner Invitational on September 17. The men's eight-kilometer race at Washington Park is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. MT). Full FHSU Results 2nd - Team - 51 points 1st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;- 18:05.3 13th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;- 1922.4 15th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 19:23.6 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;- 19:32.2 17th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;- 19:44.7 23rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6424">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;- 20:05.2 25th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;- 20:14.1 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;- 20:15.0 27th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6430">Matthew Schrag</a>&nbsp;- 20:23.3 28th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6418">Jakob Edholm</a>&nbsp;- 21:07.2 29th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6433">Ethan Emmons</a>&nbsp;- 21:15.7

KEARNEY, Neb. - After waiting an additional year to open his final year of cross country,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;made sure to start things off on the right foot. The Topeka, Kan. senior took first place at the UNK Invitational on Friday (Sept. 3), helping the Tigers to a second-place finish in the team race. Schmidt traversed the six-kilometer course at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in 18:05.3, nearly five seconds faster than the second-place finisher. Fellow senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;was the next Tiger to cross the line, placing 13th with a time of 19:22.4. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;finished in consecutive order to round out the Tiger scoring five, placing 15th, 16th and 17th respectively. Pfizenmaier recorded a time of 19:23.6, with Estrada following in 19:32.2 and Estrada crossing the line in 19:44.7. The host Lopers won the team title with 26 points. The Tigers will return to the course in two weeks when they travel to Denver, Colo. for the Roadrunner Invitational on September 17. The men's eight-kilometer race at Washington Park is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. MT). Full FHSU Results 2nd - Team - 51 points 1st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;- 18:05.3 13th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;- 1922.4 15th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 19:23.6 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;- 19:32.2 17th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;- 19:44.7 23rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6424">Trever Medina</a>&nbsp;- 20:05.2 25th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;- 20:14.1 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;- 20:15.0 27th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6430">Matthew Schrag</a>&nbsp;- 20:23.3 28th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6418">Jakob Edholm</a>&nbsp;- 21:07.2 29th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6433">Ethan Emmons</a>&nbsp;- 21:15.7FHSU Athletics

🏃‍♂️ FHSU's Schmidt wins UNK Invitational, Tigers second

KEARNEY, Neb. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team opened the 2021 season with a second-place finish at the UNK Invitational Friday evening (Sept. 3) at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers in the four-kilometer race, crossing the line in 14:55.7 to place third.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;finished seventh with a time of 15:06.6, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;was just behind in eighth after traversing the course in 15:14.5. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;(15:26.8) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;(15:30.1) rounded out the Tiger top five in 10th and 11th place, respectively. Host Nebraska-Kearney captured the team victory with 18 points. UNK's Zoe Ritz won the race with a time of 14:44.1. The Tigers will return to the course in two weeks when they travel to Denver, Colo. for the Roadrunner Invitational on September 17. The women's six-kilometer race at Washington Park is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. MT). Full FHSU Results 2nd - Team - 39 points 3rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;- 14:55.7 7th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;- 15:06.6 8th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;- 15:14.5 10th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;- 15:26.8 11th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 15:30.1 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 15:53.8 20th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6400">Mya Navarro</a>&nbsp;- 16:15.9 21st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6396">Hayley Burks</a>&nbsp;- 16:19.0 22nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6413">Hattie Lukert</a>&nbsp;- 16:22.7 23rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6401">Carson Pierce</a>&nbsp;- 16:26.4 24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6404">Hannah Wiebe</a>&nbsp;- 16:34.0 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6412">Marina Johnson</a>&nbsp;- 16:46.1 29th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6398">Faith Little</a>&nbsp;- 17:16.7&nbsp;&nbsp;

KEARNEY, Neb. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team opened the 2021 season with a second-place finish at the UNK Invitational Friday evening (Sept. 3) at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers in the four-kilometer race, crossing the line in 14:55.7 to place third.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;finished seventh with a time of 15:06.6, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;was just behind in eighth after traversing the course in 15:14.5. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;(15:26.8) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;(15:30.1) rounded out the Tiger top five in 10th and 11th place, respectively. Host Nebraska-Kearney captured the team victory with 18 points. UNK's Zoe Ritz won the race with a time of 14:44.1. The Tigers will return to the course in two weeks when they travel to Denver, Colo. for the Roadrunner Invitational on September 17. The women's six-kilometer race at Washington Park is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. MT). Full FHSU Results 2nd - Team - 39 points 3rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;- 14:55.7 7th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;- 15:06.6 8th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;- 15:14.5 10th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;- 15:26.8 11th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 15:30.1 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 15:53.8 20th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6400">Mya Navarro</a>&nbsp;- 16:15.9 21st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6396">Hayley Burks</a>&nbsp;- 16:19.0 22nd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6413">Hattie Lukert</a>&nbsp;- 16:22.7 23rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6401">Carson Pierce</a>&nbsp;- 16:26.4 24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6404">Hannah Wiebe</a>&nbsp;- 16:34.0 26th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6412">Marina Johnson</a>&nbsp;- 16:46.1 29th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6398">Faith Little</a>&nbsp;- 17:16.7&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏃‍♀️ FHSU women finish second at UNK Invitational

HAYS, Kan. - The FHSU women's soccer team won in dominating fashion to open the season on Friday (Sept. 3), taking down Augustana 3-0 at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers scored two goals in the first half and added a third for good measure in the second half before finishing with a clean sheet.

The Tigers got on the board early as senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6228">Zariah Smith</a>&nbsp;put the ball out of the reach of Augustana keeper Bailey Barkus in the top left corner in the eighth minute of action. Not much later, redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6230">Carly Walker</a>&nbsp;tacked on a header goal off of a nice cross from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6223">Cailey Perkins</a>&nbsp;in the 15th minute. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6233">Alex Hutton</a>&nbsp;added a goal of her own in the 62nd&nbsp;minute on a header that ricocheted off the goalkeeper and into the net off a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6216">Emily Hutchings</a>. The Vikings had a few good looks later in the half but the Tiger defense and goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6231">Deonna Wellbrock</a>&nbsp;stood tall to post the shutout. The Tigers won the shot battle 13-8 and each team put seven on target.

The Tigers look to remain unbeaten on Sunday (Sept. 5) as the Sioux Falls Cougars come to Hays for the first game of the only men's and women's home doubleheader this season. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.

HAYS, Kan. - The FHSU women's soccer team won in dominating fashion to open the season on Friday (Sept. 3), taking down Augustana 3-0 at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers scored two goals in the first half and added a third for good measure in the second half before finishing with a clean sheet.The Tigers got on the board early as senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6228">Zariah Smith</a>&nbsp;put the ball out of the reach of Augustana keeper Bailey Barkus in the top left corner in the eighth minute of action. Not much later, redshirt freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6230">Carly Walker</a>&nbsp;tacked on a header goal off of a nice cross from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6223">Cailey Perkins</a>&nbsp;in the 15th minute. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6233">Alex Hutton</a>&nbsp;added a goal of her own in the 62nd&nbsp;minute on a header that ricocheted off the goalkeeper and into the net off a throw in from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6216">Emily Hutchings</a>. The Vikings had a few good looks later in the half but the Tiger defense and goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6231">Deonna Wellbrock</a>&nbsp;stood tall to post the shutout. The Tigers won the shot battle 13-8 and each team put seven on target.The Tigers look to remain unbeaten on Sunday (Sept. 5) as the Sioux Falls Cougars come to Hays for the first game of the only men's and women's home doubleheader this season. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.FHSU Athletics

⚽ Tiger women start season in win column

HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys soccer team dropped their season opener Thursday, losing 2-1 to Elyria Christian.

HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys soccer team dropped their season opener Thursday, losing 2-1 to Elyria Christian.

⚽ Monarchs drop season opener

Check out all the local scores on the new Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post Friday Night Scoreboard!

Click <a href="https://scoreboard.hayspost.com/">HERE</a> to stay in touch with your favorite teams throughout the 2021-22 seasons.

Check out all the local scores on the new Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post Friday Night Scoreboard!Click <a href="https://scoreboard.hayspost.com/">HERE</a> to stay in touch with your favorite teams throughout the 2021-22 seasons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630681917256.png" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Eagle's Friday Night Scoreboard

Click the player below or click <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/thomasmoreprep/">HERE</a> to view the game.

You can also listen live <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Click the player below or click <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/thomasmoreprep/">HERE</a> to view the game.TMP @ Oakley kickoff is set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/294986?autoplay=1" width="100%" height="100%" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>You can also listen live <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHAZ">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

🎥 WATCH LIVE TMP-Marian at Oakley

Click the player below or click <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/hayshigh/">HERE</a> to view the game.

Hays High vs. Wichita East. Kickoff set for 7 p.m.

You can also listen live <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.

Click the player below or click <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/hayshigh/">HERE</a> to view the game.Hays High vs. Wichita East. Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/294973?autoplay=1" width="100%" height="100%" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>You can also listen live <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.

🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High Indians v. Wichita East Blue Aces

Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post is proud to announce an upgrade to our popular high school sports video streams for the 2021-22 seasons.

Eagle has partnered with a new software provider and invested in upgrades of video and other production equipment, as well as production personnel.

"We know how popular our video streams of football and basketball games have become over the years, and it was time to up the quality for the thousands of people who tune in on their computer, cellphone or smart TV," said Todd Lynd, Eagle Radio of Hays general manager.

Streams of Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian games can be found weekly at HaysPost.com or you can bookmark <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/">THIS LINK</a> on your smart device. The streams will no longer be broadcast via YouTube.

Dustin Armbruster will return as the voice of the Hays High Indians, and Jonathan Zweygardt again will handle play-by-play duties for the TMP-M Monarchs.

Indian games can also be heard on KFIX 96.9, and the Monarchs can be heard on 99.5 KHAZ.

“We’re happy we’ve been able to offer video streaming along with our radio broadcasts," said Gerard Wellbrock, Eagle Radio of Hays sports director. "This upgrade should make that product even better for our listening and viewing public.”

The Indians kick off their 2021 campaign at 7 p.m. Friday against Wichita East, and the Monarchs open at 7 p.m. Friday against Oakley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post is proud to announce an upgrade to our popular high school sports video streams for the 2021-22 seasons.Eagle has partnered with a new software provider and invested in upgrades of video and other production equipment, as well as production personnel."We know how popular our video streams of football and basketball games have become over the years, and it was time to up the quality for the thousands of people who tune in on their computer, cellphone or smart TV," said Todd Lynd, Eagle Radio of Hays general manager.Streams of Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian games can be found weekly at HaysPost.com or you can bookmark <a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/">THIS LINK</a> on your smart device. The streams will no longer be broadcast via YouTube.Dustin Armbruster will return as the voice of the Hays High Indians, and Jonathan Zweygardt again will handle play-by-play duties for the TMP-M Monarchs.Indian games can also be heard on KFIX 96.9, and the Monarchs can be heard on 99.5 KHAZ.“We’re happy we’ve been able to offer video streaming along with our radio broadcasts," said Gerard Wellbrock, Eagle Radio of Hays sports director. "This upgrade should make that product even better for our listening and viewing public.”The Indians kick off their 2021 campaign at 7 p.m. Friday against Wichita East, and the Monarchs open at 7 p.m. Friday against Oakley.

Eagle crews set for upgraded live streams of HHS, TMP-M games

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State and Northwest Missouri State opened the 2021 season with a tight battle, but the No. 4 ranked Bearcats prevailed by a score of 15-7. A late touchdown by NWMSU provided a bit of separation and a hail mary attempt to the endzone by the Tigers was intercepted as time expired.

Field position was key to Northwest Missouri State's success in the first half as it held FHSU scoreless. After the Tigers forced a Bearcat punt on the opening drive, NWMSU punter Mike Hohensee placed a punt perfectly that was downed at the 1-yardline. The Bearcats then forced a safety on Fort Hays State's first offensive play of the game and the two points was all of the scoring for either team in the first quarter.

The Bearcats provided the game's first touchdown in the second quarter on a 3-yard rush by Al McKeller. Tiger fans have seen McKeller before, an All-America transfer running back from University of Indianapolis. The Tigers faced him in the 2018 NCAA Playoffs. McKeller went on to run for a game-best 161 yards on 28 carries. NWMSU led at the half 9-0.

The Tigers finally broke through on the scoreboard in the third quarter. A 44-yard completion from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6360">Monterio Burchfield</a>&nbsp;put the Tigers in business near midfield, the Fuller found&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6186">Adrian Soto</a>&nbsp;later on the drive for a 36-yard touchdown strike. The Tigers were back within two at 9-7.

The Tigers had a chance to take the lead with just over six minutes to play, but a 50-yard field goal attempt was just off the mark. The Bearcats countered with a 10-play, 67-yard drive to chew up 5:15 on the clock, ended by a Braden Wright touchdown pass to Kaden Davis. But the Tigers remained mathematically alive when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6173">Jhimon Preston</a>&nbsp;blocked the extra-point attempt. With just 59 seconds to work with, FHSU advanced the ball down to the NWMSU 34 before Fuller had to throw a final prayer to the endzone. Isaiah Nimmers picked off the pass as the clock expired. Quick Hits -Northwest Missouri State had three punts that were either downed or went out of bounds at the 1-yardline. Fort Hays State's average field start position for the game was their own 15-yardline. -FHSU had only 3 first downs in the first half, but finished the game with 15. -<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;threw for 265 yards and 1 touchdown, completing 16 passes. -<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6360">Monterio Burchfield</a>&nbsp;finished with a team-best 118 receiving yards on four catches. -The Tigers generated just 48 rushing yards, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6194">Tristan Tucker</a>&nbsp;with 32. -Northwest Missouri State finished with 240 rushing yards as a team, led by McKeller's 161. However, the Bearcats managed only 96 passing yards. -Both defenses managed the game well, NWMSU allowing 313 total yards and FHSU allowing 336 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630643278493.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State and Northwest Missouri State opened the 2021 season with a tight battle, but the No. 4 ranked Bearcats prevailed by a score of 15-7. A late touchdown by NWMSU provided a bit of separation and a hail mary attempt to the endzone by the Tigers was intercepted as time expired.<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/1117965061&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/coach-brown-report" title="Chris Brown Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)</a></div></div>Field position was key to Northwest Missouri State's success in the first half as it held FHSU scoreless. After the Tigers forced a Bearcat punt on the opening drive, NWMSU punter Mike Hohensee placed a punt perfectly that was downed at the 1-yardline. The Bearcats then forced a safety on Fort Hays State's first offensive play of the game and the two points was all of the scoring for either team in the first quarter.<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/1117965034&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/fh-will-white" title="Will White Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Will White Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)</a></div></div>The Bearcats provided the game's first touchdown in the second quarter on a 3-yard rush by Al McKeller. Tiger fans have seen McKeller before, an All-America transfer running back from University of Indianapolis. The Tigers faced him in the 2018 NCAA Playoffs. McKeller went on to run for a game-best 161 yards on 28 carries. NWMSU led at the half 9-0.<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/1117964998&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/fh-chance-fuller" title="Chance Fuller Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chance Fuller Postgame vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)</a></div></div>The Tigers finally broke through on the scoreboard in the third quarter. A 44-yard completion from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6360">Monterio Burchfield</a>&nbsp;put the Tigers in business near midfield, the Fuller found&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6186">Adrian Soto</a>&nbsp;later on the drive for a 36-yard touchdown strike. The Tigers were back within two at 9-7.<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/1117964977&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-814667509/09-02-21-fhsu-fb-vs-nw-mo-highlights" title="Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. #4 NW Missouri State (Sep 2, 2021)</a></div></div>The Tigers had a chance to take the lead with just over six minutes to play, but a 50-yard field goal attempt was just off the mark. The Bearcats countered with a 10-play, 67-yard drive to chew up 5:15 on the clock, ended by a Braden Wright touchdown pass to Kaden Davis. But the Tigers remained mathematically alive when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6173">Jhimon Preston</a>&nbsp;blocked the extra-point attempt. With just 59 seconds to work with, FHSU advanced the ball down to the NWMSU 34 before Fuller had to throw a final prayer to the endzone. Isaiah Nimmers picked off the pass as the clock expired. Quick Hits -Northwest Missouri State had three punts that were either downed or went out of bounds at the 1-yardline. Fort Hays State's average field start position for the game was their own 15-yardline. -FHSU had only 3 first downs in the first half, but finished the game with 15. -<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6146">Chance Fuller</a>&nbsp;threw for 265 yards and 1 touchdown, completing 16 passes. -<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6360">Monterio Burchfield</a>&nbsp;finished with a team-best 118 receiving yards on four catches. -The Tigers generated just 48 rushing yards, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6194">Tristan Tucker</a>&nbsp;with 32. -Northwest Missouri State finished with 240 rushing yards as a team, led by McKeller's 161. However, the Bearcats managed only 96 passing yards. -Both defenses managed the game well, NWMSU allowing 313 total yards and FHSU allowing 336 yards.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏈 Tigers come up short against No. 4 Bearcats

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Triston McKenzie limited Kansas City to a run and two hits over six innings and the Cleveland Indians beat the Royals 4-2 Thursday night.

Owen Miller hit a three-run homer in the fifth inning, plenty of support for McKenzie, who has dominated the Royals throughout his young career.

A day after being activated from the injured list, McKenzie (4-5) showed no ill effects from his recent shoulder fatigue and improved to 3-0 with a 1.57 ERA in six appearances against Kansas City. He struck out six Thursday and has 38 punchouts over 28.2 innings against the AL Central foe.

Cleveland has won 11 straight games against the Royals, the longest winning streak over Kansas City in club history.

Emmanuel Clase pitched the ninth for his 20th save in 24 chances.

Mike Minor (8-12) was dominant for the first four innings, allowing just one hit. Things went south quickly in the fifth. He finished with three runs (two earned) on five hits in five innings.

Hunter Dozier hit a two-out single in the second to give the Royals their first run.

Harold Ramirez led off the fifth reaching on an error by third baseman Emmanuel Rivera. Yu Chang then singled before Miller hit a drive 390 feet into the seats in left field for his fourth home run of the season.

Chang drove in Jose Ramirez with his second single in the eighth inning. Ramirez led off with a walk and advanced to second on a groundout. Chang beat the shift with a sharp single to right.

The Royals had runners on first and second with one out in the eighth, only the second time in the game they had two runners reach base in an inning, but Salvador Perez flew out and Andrew Benintendi grounded out.

The Royals got a run off Clase in the ninth on an RBI groundout by Edward Olivares.

Royals INF Adalberto Mondesi was not in the lineup after returning from the injured list Wednesday, and manager Mike Matheny said it was a scheduled day off. Mondesi played Wednesday for the first time since June 20 because of a left oblique strain. He has only played 11 games this season and was the designated hitter Wednesday. He likely will see time at third base when he's in the field.

The Indians head to Boston for a three-game series against the Red Sox. RHP Cal Quantrill (4-2, 2.93 ERA) is set to face RHP Nathan Eovaldi (10-8, 3.71 ERA).

The Royals continue the homestand with a three-game series against the first place White Sox. Matheny has not yet named a starter to oppose Chicago's LHP Dallas Keuchel (8-7, 5.00 ERA).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Triston McKenzie limited Kansas City to a run and two hits over six innings and the Cleveland Indians beat the Royals 4-2 Thursday night.Owen Miller hit a three-run homer in the fifth inning, plenty of support for McKenzie, who has dominated the Royals throughout his young career.A day after being activated from the injured list, McKenzie (4-5) showed no ill effects from his recent shoulder fatigue and improved to 3-0 with a 1.57 ERA in six appearances against Kansas City. He struck out six Thursday and has 38 punchouts over 28.2 innings against the AL Central foe.Cleveland has won 11 straight games against the Royals, the longest winning streak over Kansas City in club history.Emmanuel Clase pitched the ninth for his 20th save in 24 chances.Mike Minor (8-12) was dominant for the first four innings, allowing just one hit. Things went south quickly in the fifth. He finished with three runs (two earned) on five hits in five innings.Hunter Dozier hit a two-out single in the second to give the Royals their first run.Harold Ramirez led off the fifth reaching on an error by third baseman Emmanuel Rivera. Yu Chang then singled before Miller hit a drive 390 feet into the seats in left field for his fourth home run of the season.Chang drove in Jose Ramirez with his second single in the eighth inning. Ramirez led off with a walk and advanced to second on a groundout. Chang beat the shift with a sharp single to right.The Royals had runners on first and second with one out in the eighth, only the second time in the game they had two runners reach base in an inning, but Salvador Perez flew out and Andrew Benintendi grounded out.The Royals got a run off Clase in the ninth on an RBI groundout by Edward Olivares.Royals INF Adalberto Mondesi was not in the lineup after returning from the injured list Wednesday, and manager Mike Matheny said it was a scheduled day off. Mondesi played Wednesday for the first time since June 20 because of a left oblique strain. He has only played 11 games this season and was the designated hitter Wednesday. He likely will see time at third base when he's in the field.UP NEXTThe Indians head to Boston for a three-game series against the Red Sox. RHP Cal Quantrill (4-2, 2.93 ERA) is set to face RHP Nathan Eovaldi (10-8, 3.71 ERA).The Royals continue the homestand with a three-game series against the first place White Sox. Matheny has not yet named a starter to oppose Chicago's LHP Dallas Keuchel (8-7, 5.00 ERA).

⚾ Royals' bats quieted in fourth straight loss, to Indians

⚽ Monarch boys drop season opener

PUEBLO, Colo. - The Fort Hays State men's soccer team came up one goal&nbsp;short in their season opener against CSU-Pueblo on Thursday, falling 2-1 in overtime. The match was well fought by both sides, but a 98th-minute goal by the home team propelled the ThunderWolves to victory.

The Tigers started off strong with a goal in the fifth minute by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6386">Eleuterio Gutierrez</a>&nbsp;after a blocked shot from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6240">Blake Arndt</a>. CSU-Pueblo leveled the match at the 29-minute mark, making the halftime score 1-1.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6244">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;made three saves in the second half to keep the match level.&nbsp;In overtime, the ThunderWolves took advantage of a fast break and scored the golden goal in the 98th minute. Seven different Tigers attempted a shot in the match, while CSU-Pueblo outshot the Tigers, 19-7. Brown made a total of five saves throughout the afternoon.

The Tigers will look to finish the weekend with a victory Sunday (Sept. 5) when they host MSU-Denver at FHSU Soccer Stadium beginning at 2:30 p.m.

PUEBLO, Colo. - The Fort Hays State men's soccer team came up one goal&nbsp;short in their season opener against CSU-Pueblo on Thursday, falling 2-1 in overtime. The match was well fought by both sides, but a 98th-minute goal by the home team propelled the ThunderWolves to victory.The Tigers started off strong with a goal in the fifth minute by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6386">Eleuterio Gutierrez</a>&nbsp;after a blocked shot from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6240">Blake Arndt</a>. CSU-Pueblo leveled the match at the 29-minute mark, making the halftime score 1-1.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6244">Kieran Brown</a>&nbsp;made three saves in the second half to keep the match level.&nbsp;In overtime, the ThunderWolves took advantage of a fast break and scored the golden goal in the 98th minute. Seven different Tigers attempted a shot in the match, while CSU-Pueblo outshot the Tigers, 19-7. Brown made a total of five saves throughout the afternoon.The Tigers will look to finish the weekend with a victory Sunday (Sept. 5) when they host MSU-Denver at FHSU Soccer Stadium beginning at 2:30 p.m.FHSU Athletics

⚽ Tiger men drop opener at Pueblo

BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - The Hays High girls finished third and the boys sixth at the Great Bend cross country invitational Thursday morning at the Lake Barton golf course.

Brenlynn Albers and Amelia Jaeger had the only top-20 finishes. Albers placed 16th and Jaeger 17th.

Leo Hernandez placed 21st in the boys race.

BARTON COUNTY, Kan. - The Hays High girls finished third and the boys sixth at the Great Bend cross country invitational Thursday morning at the Lake Barton golf course.Brenlynn Albers and Amelia Jaeger had the only top-20 finishes. Albers placed 16th and Jaeger 17th.Leo Hernandez placed 21st in the boys race.

🏃‍♀️ HHS girls third, boys sixth in Great Bend

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Hedges popped an RBI single just out of reach of first baseman Carlos Santana for the tiebreaking run in the 11th inning and the Cleveland Indians beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3. 

Hedges’ bloop off Ervin Santana fell in shallow right field, allowing pinch-runner Daniel Johnson to score from second. Yu Chang followed with a run-scoring double. 

Taylor Stephen pitched a perfect bottom of the 11th for his first save. Blake Parker got the win. 

Both teams had scoring opportunities in the 10th. The Indians had the bases loaded with two outs in the top of the inning, but Franmil Reyes flew out.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Hedges popped an RBI single just out of reach of first baseman Carlos Santana for the tiebreaking run in the 11th inning and the Cleveland Indians beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3. Hedges’ bloop off Ervin Santana fell in shallow right field, allowing pinch-runner Daniel Johnson to score from second. Yu Chang followed with a run-scoring double. Taylor Stephen pitched a perfect bottom of the 11th for his first save. Blake Parker got the win. Both teams had scoring opportunities in the 10th. The Indians had the bases loaded with two outs in the top of the inning, but Franmil Reyes flew out.

⚾Hedges' 11th-inning bloop lifts Indians over Royals 5-3

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu has tested positive for COVID-19 and was placed on the league’s reserve list Wednesday, though he could be back with the team soon and available for Week 1 against Cleveland. 

Mathieu is fully vaccinated, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press, and NFL rules released in July say that vaccinated players that test positive and are asymptomatic can return after two negative tests taken 24 hours apart. 

Mathieu has been an All-Pro each of his first two seasons in Kansas City. He’s entering the final year of a $42 million, three-year contract, though both sides have expressed optimism in a long-term extension.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu has tested positive for COVID-19 and was placed on the league’s reserve list Wednesday, though he could be back with the team soon and available for Week 1 against Cleveland. Mathieu is fully vaccinated, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press, and NFL rules released in July say that vaccinated players that test positive and are asymptomatic can return after two negative tests taken 24 hours apart. Mathieu has been an All-Pro each of his first two seasons in Kansas City. He’s entering the final year of a $42 million, three-year contract, though both sides have expressed optimism in a long-term extension.

🏈Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu tests positive for COVID-19

The Fort Hays State men's soccer team opens up the 2021 season with a pair of matches this week. On Thursday (Sept. 2), the Tigers travel to Pueblo, Colo. to face off with CSU-Pueblo at 1 p.m. (noon&nbsp;MT). They will then turn around and host MSU-Denver&nbsp;on Sunday (Sept. 5) at 2:30 p.m. for their home opener as a part of a men's and women's doubleheader at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers have 20 players returning from their 4-2-1 spring season, including 7 of the 8 GAC/MIAA All-Conference Team members from the 2021 spring season. All-GAC/MIAA First Team member&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6240">Blake Arndt</a>&nbsp;scored five goals in six regular season matches this spring, earning him Offensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year honors. The Tigers also added nine newcomers to the pitch this season with one forward,&nbsp;two defenders, two goalkeepers and four midfielders joining the fray for the upcoming campaign The CSU-Pueblo ThunderWolves ended the 2021 spring season at 5-2-2 overall and 3-1-2 in the RMAC. They averaged 2.5 goals per game on 16.4 shots per game and notched a .453 shots on goal percentage. The TIgers are 2-0 all-time against CSU-Pueblo, including a 1-0 mark in Pueblo. The MSU-Denver Roadrunners finished at 2-5 overall last season and 2-4 in the RMAC. They scored five goals in seven contests&nbsp;and averaged nine shots per outing. FHSU is 1-0 all-time against the Roadrunners, with the lone contest also being played in Hays back in 2018. Live video and live stats will be available for both matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630585774866.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Courtesy FHSU Athletics " />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Courtesy FHSU Athletics </figcaption>
 </figure>The Fort Hays State men's soccer team opens up the 2021 season with a pair of matches this week. On Thursday (Sept. 2), the Tigers travel to Pueblo, Colo. to face off with CSU-Pueblo at 1 p.m. (noon&nbsp;MT). They will then turn around and host MSU-Denver&nbsp;on Sunday (Sept. 5) at 2:30 p.m. for their home opener as a part of a men's and women's doubleheader at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers have 20 players returning from their 4-2-1 spring season, including 7 of the 8 GAC/MIAA All-Conference Team members from the 2021 spring season. All-GAC/MIAA First Team member&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6240">Blake Arndt</a>&nbsp;scored five goals in six regular season matches this spring, earning him Offensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year honors. The Tigers also added nine newcomers to the pitch this season with one forward,&nbsp;two defenders, two goalkeepers and four midfielders joining the fray for the upcoming campaign The CSU-Pueblo ThunderWolves ended the 2021 spring season at 5-2-2 overall and 3-1-2 in the RMAC. They averaged 2.5 goals per game on 16.4 shots per game and notched a .453 shots on goal percentage. The TIgers are 2-0 all-time against CSU-Pueblo, including a 1-0 mark in Pueblo. The MSU-Denver Roadrunners finished at 2-5 overall last season and 2-4 in the RMAC. They scored five goals in seven contests&nbsp;and averaged nine shots per outing. FHSU is 1-0 all-time against the Roadrunners, with the lone contest also being played in Hays back in 2018. Live video and live stats will be available for both matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

⚽Men's soccer opens season with a pair of matches

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — With expectations for COVID-19 disruptions and
the possibility for game cancellations during the 2021 MIAA fall sports
seasons, the MIAA announced it will use a weighted index formula to determine
fall conference standings and seeding. 
The Association’s Athletic Administrators Committee unanimously approved to use
the weighted index for the 2021 fall seasons. This method, which was originally
created for the 2020-21 basketball season, is comprised of 80 percent of a
team’s winning percentage and 20 percent of the team’s total number of contests
played. Teams must complete at least 50% of its scheduled contests to be
eligible to be the regular season champion and to also qualify for the MIAA
post-season tournament. 
The MIAA Office will apply the weighted index formula to the standings each
weekend, and the new standings as a result of the formula will be updated every
Monday. 
For fall MIAA championships tournaments, teams that are tied in the
conference’s final standings, as a result of the weighted index, will follow
the sports “Tie-Breaker Process” to determine qualifiers and seeding for the
MIAA tournament. 
The 2021 MIAA Soccer Championship Tournament is scheduled for November 7, 12,
14 and the 2021 MIAA Volleyball Championship Tournament is set for November 16,
19, 20. Both will be played at campus sites. 
To see the complete MIAA football season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/1d10a2bf-a2cf-429e-8ba3-8324b85d8c76?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>, for a complete MIAA women’s soccer season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/6519df88-6e02-48c7-9256-3af96fbd54ed?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>, and to see a complete MIAA volleyball season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/41516983-421b-468d-8520-37cf095540b9?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596047302939.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — With expectations for COVID-19 disruptions and
the possibility for game cancellations during the 2021 MIAA fall sports
seasons, the MIAA announced it will use a weighted index formula to determine
fall conference standings and seeding. 
The Association’s Athletic Administrators Committee unanimously approved to use
the weighted index for the 2021 fall seasons. This method, which was originally
created for the 2020-21 basketball season, is comprised of 80 percent of a
team’s winning percentage and 20 percent of the team’s total number of contests
played. Teams must complete at least 50% of its scheduled contests to be
eligible to be the regular season champion and to also qualify for the MIAA
post-season tournament. 
The MIAA Office will apply the weighted index formula to the standings each
weekend, and the new standings as a result of the formula will be updated every
Monday. 
For fall MIAA championships tournaments, teams that are tied in the
conference’s final standings, as a result of the weighted index, will follow
the sports “Tie-Breaker Process” to determine qualifiers and seeding for the
MIAA tournament. 
The 2021 MIAA Soccer Championship Tournament is scheduled for November 7, 12,
14 and the 2021 MIAA Volleyball Championship Tournament is set for November 16,
19, 20. Both will be played at campus sites. 
To see the complete MIAA football season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/1d10a2bf-a2cf-429e-8ba3-8324b85d8c76?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>, for a complete MIAA women’s soccer season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/6519df88-6e02-48c7-9256-3af96fbd54ed?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>, and to see a complete MIAA volleyball season, <a href="https://themiaa.com/services/go.ashx/41516983-421b-468d-8520-37cf095540b9?elinkdata=233038">click
here</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;MIAA

MIAA to use weighted index to determine standings for 2021 fall seasons

The TMP-Marian volleyball team ran their record to 6-2 with
a pair of wins over Norton and Hoxie in their Mid-Continent League opener Tuesday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

The Monarchs defeated Norton 25-15 and 25-22. 

They also dispatched of Hoxie in two sets, winning 25-17 and
25-19.

TMP travels to Abilene for a quadrangular with Smokey
Valley, Concordia and the host Cowgirls.

The TMP-Marian volleyball team ran their record to 6-2 with
a pair of wins over Norton and Hoxie in their Mid-Continent League opener Tuesday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.The Monarchs defeated Norton 25-15 and 25-22. They also dispatched of Hoxie in two sets, winning 25-17 and
25-19.TMP travels to Abilene for a quadrangular with Smokey
Valley, Concordia and the host Cowgirls.

🏐Monarchs pick up first MCL wins of the season

After the two teams played through a scoreless first half Garden City scored a pair of second half goals as they knock off the Hays High Indians boys soccer team 2-0 in the Indians season opener.

The Indians begin play at the Wichita South Invitational on Monday.

After the two teams played through a scoreless first half Garden City scored a pair of second half goals as they knock off the Hays High Indians boys soccer team 2-0 in the Indians season opener.The Indians begin play at the Wichita South Invitational on Monday.

⚽Indians drop season opener at Garden City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs traded offensive lineman Yasir Durant to the Patriots for a seventh-round pick in the 2022 draft as they trimmed their roster to the 53-man limit by Tuesday’s deadline. 

Durant made the Chiefs last season as an undrafted free agent out of Missouri, and he started Week 17 at right guard as the Chiefs rested their starters. 

But he was lost in a numbers game in Kansas City, which completely revamped its offensive line after a bunch of backups and fill-ins were dominated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Super Bowl.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs traded offensive lineman Yasir Durant to the Patriots for a seventh-round pick in the 2022 draft as they trimmed their roster to the 53-man limit by Tuesday’s deadline. Durant made the Chiefs last season as an undrafted free agent out of Missouri, and he started Week 17 at right guard as the Chiefs rested their starters. But he was lost in a numbers game in Kansas City, which completely revamped its offensive line after a bunch of backups and fill-ins were dominated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Super Bowl.

🏈Chiefs trade OL Durant to Patriots for 7th-round 2022 pick

Overhauls are usually reserved for bad teams that miss the playoffs, not ones that play in consecutive Super Bowls.

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach, however, was impelled to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-football-kansas-city-chiefs-219f37f2b1842cb62cd64aa3f590cdde">dismantle his offensive line</a>&nbsp;after watching Patrick Mahomes run for his life in Kansas City's 31-9 shellacking at the hands of the Buccaneers in the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs were 3-point betting favorites to defend their title but injuries and opt-outs forced them to use a makeshift group, which was promptly steamrolled. By one calculation, Mahomes ran around for nearly 500 yards while trying to escape the Bucs' relentless pass rush and find an open receiver.

So, Veach brought in five new starters to help protect the team's half-billion dollar investment at quarterback.

He traded for Ravens left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. and signed former Patriots left guard Joe Thuney, the first player in NFL history to start in the Super Bowl in each of his first three seasons.

The rest of the line hasn't ever played in the NFL. Center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith are rookies and right tackle Lucas Niang opted out as a rookie in 2020 because of COVID-19 concerns.

“We’ve come together fast,” Niang said. “We’ve got a ways to go, but we’re doing a good job. Everybody’s communicating, getting on the same page.”

Mahomes figures this work-in-progress line will coalesce quickly.

“I mean obviously they’re all really talented,” Mahomes said. “ ... When everybody is on the same exact page is when you have those truly great offensive lines and great offenses.

“I think you see us as games are going on, we’re communicating better and better and I think we’ll continue to improve throughout the season.”

All the other familiar names are back — Travis Kelce, Tyreek Hill, Clyde Edwards-Helaire — along with an improved defense, making K.C. the favorite for a sixth straight AFC West title and maybe a third consecutive trip to the Super Bowl.

No team has ever won six straight AFC West titles, and the division is tougher than it's been in a half decade. Both the Chargers and Raiders split with the Chiefs last season and the Broncos sport their deepest roster since winning it all in 2015.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-los-angeles-rams-denver-broncos-von-miller-4d029fbfe08d33b69cb4dc9f4554fcca">Von Miller</a>&nbsp;says Denver finally has the roster like the one he led to a championship parade five years ago.

“We have some of the same players we had last year, but our team looks totally different,” Miller said. “The energy is totally different. I know I get carried away with some of the comments about my teammates, and I have high expectations for my teammates. This year is going to be a great year for our guys.”

That will require big bounce-backs by Miller (ankle), WR Courtland Sutton (knee) and new QB Teddy Bridgewater, who went 4-11 in Carolina last year and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-denver-broncos-teddy-bridgewater-c01cef5df8cd6c06b87a0f1f1ec1a5cd">beat out Drew Lock&nbsp;</a>this summer.

By all indications, Brandon Staley had a successful first training camp as Los Angeles Chargers coach. The Bolts didn’t sustain any major injuries during training camp — something they could not say the past two seasons. Staley also stole a page from former boss Sean McVay and didn’t play most of his starters, including quarterback Justin Herbert, during the preseason.

Herbert, the reigning AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, quickly became one of the top young quarterbacks in the league last season, setting a rookie record with 36 TDs.

New offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s system, which is more up tempo, should take advantage of Herbert’s strengths behind an O-line featuring four new starters, including left tackle and first-round pick Rashawn Slater.

On defense, all-purpose safety Derwin James’ return after missing last season (knee) gives the unit a big lift. James will call the plays and line up all over the field.

The Raiders are hoping offseason changes can boost a defense that allowed the most points per game and second-most yards per play in three seasons since coach Jon Gruden returned.

Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther was fired late last season and Gus Bradley was brought over from the Chargers with a simpler system that should allow the Raiders to be more aggressive.

The defensive line should be better with Yannick Ngakoue teaming with Maxx Crosby on the edge but questions still remain in the secondary.

Last year, the Raiders flaunted the NFL's COVID-19 protocols more than any team, getting fined $575,000 over the first month of the season for breaking the rules, from Gruden wearing his face mask like a chin strap to players appearing at a function where face coverings weren’t used nor social distancing observed.

This year, the Raiders became the first NFL team to require fans to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend home games without a mask at their gleaming new Allegiant Stadium, where fans weren't allowed last year.

“Health and safety has always been our No. 1 priority,” Raiders owner Mark Davis said in a statement.

Players are not required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but the NFL has reported that more than 90% of them are. The league has said outbreaks among unvaccinated players could lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-health-coronavirus-pandemic-999868909dc85e46a5a4d3cb608e262c">forfeits&nbsp;</a>in 2021.

Overhauls are usually reserved for bad teams that miss the playoffs, not ones that play in consecutive Super Bowls.Chiefs general manager Brett Veach, however, was impelled to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-football-kansas-city-chiefs-219f37f2b1842cb62cd64aa3f590cdde">dismantle his offensive line</a>&nbsp;after watching Patrick Mahomes run for his life in Kansas City's 31-9 shellacking at the hands of the Buccaneers in the Super Bowl.The Chiefs were 3-point betting favorites to defend their title but injuries and opt-outs forced them to use a makeshift group, which was promptly steamrolled. By one calculation, Mahomes ran around for nearly 500 yards while trying to escape the Bucs' relentless pass rush and find an open receiver.So, Veach brought in five new starters to help protect the team's half-billion dollar investment at quarterback.He traded for Ravens left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. and signed former Patriots left guard Joe Thuney, the first player in NFL history to start in the Super Bowl in each of his first three seasons.The rest of the line hasn't ever played in the NFL. Center Creed Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith are rookies and right tackle Lucas Niang opted out as a rookie in 2020 because of COVID-19 concerns.“We’ve come together fast,” Niang said. “We’ve got a ways to go, but we’re doing a good job. Everybody’s communicating, getting on the same page.”Mahomes figures this work-in-progress line will coalesce quickly.“I mean obviously they’re all really talented,” Mahomes said. “ ... When everybody is on the same exact page is when you have those truly great offensive lines and great offenses.“I think you see us as games are going on, we’re communicating better and better and I think we’ll continue to improve throughout the season.”All the other familiar names are back — Travis Kelce, Tyreek Hill, Clyde Edwards-Helaire — along with an improved defense, making K.C. the favorite for a sixth straight AFC West title and maybe a third consecutive trip to the Super Bowl.No team has ever won six straight AFC West titles, and the division is tougher than it's been in a half decade. Both the Chargers and Raiders split with the Chiefs last season and the Broncos sport their deepest roster since winning it all in 2015.BRONCOS BOUNCEBACK<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-los-angeles-rams-denver-broncos-von-miller-4d029fbfe08d33b69cb4dc9f4554fcca">Von Miller</a>&nbsp;says Denver finally has the roster like the one he led to a championship parade five years ago.“We have some of the same players we had last year, but our team looks totally different,” Miller said. “The energy is totally different. I know I get carried away with some of the comments about my teammates, and I have high expectations for my teammates. This year is going to be a great year for our guys.”That will require big bounce-backs by Miller (ankle), WR Courtland Sutton (knee) and new QB Teddy Bridgewater, who went 4-11 in Carolina last year and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-denver-broncos-teddy-bridgewater-c01cef5df8cd6c06b87a0f1f1ec1a5cd">beat out Drew Lock&nbsp;</a>this summer.NEW LOOK, NEW LUCKBy all indications, Brandon Staley had a successful first training camp as Los Angeles Chargers coach. The Bolts didn’t sustain any major injuries during training camp — something they could not say the past two seasons. Staley also stole a page from former boss Sean McVay and didn’t play most of his starters, including quarterback Justin Herbert, during the preseason.Herbert, the reigning AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, quickly became one of the top young quarterbacks in the league last season, setting a rookie record with 36 TDs.New offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi’s system, which is more up tempo, should take advantage of Herbert’s strengths behind an O-line featuring four new starters, including left tackle and first-round pick Rashawn Slater.On defense, all-purpose safety Derwin James’ return after missing last season (knee) gives the unit a big lift. James will call the plays and line up all over the field.BLACK EYEThe Raiders are hoping offseason changes can boost a defense that allowed the most points per game and second-most yards per play in three seasons since coach Jon Gruden returned.Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther was fired late last season and Gus Bradley was brought over from the Chargers with a simpler system that should allow the Raiders to be more aggressive.The defensive line should be better with Yannick Ngakoue teaming with Maxx Crosby on the edge but questions still remain in the secondary.TURNABOUTLast year, the Raiders flaunted the NFL's COVID-19 protocols more than any team, getting fined $575,000 over the first month of the season for breaking the rules, from Gruden wearing his face mask like a chin strap to players appearing at a function where face coverings weren’t used nor social distancing observed.This year, the Raiders became the first NFL team to require fans to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend home games without a mask at their gleaming new Allegiant Stadium, where fans weren't allowed last year.“Health and safety has always been our No. 1 priority,” Raiders owner Mark Davis said in a statement.Players are not required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but the NFL has reported that more than 90% of them are. The league has said outbreaks among unvaccinated players could lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-nfl-health-coronavirus-pandemic-999868909dc85e46a5a4d3cb608e262c">forfeits&nbsp;</a>in 2021.PREDICTED ORDER OF FINSHChiefs, Broncos, Chargers, Raiders.

🏈Chiefs rebuild O-line to protect Mahomes, fend off rivals

🏈 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

HAYS - The Hays High girls' golf team won their season-opening tournament. The Indians shot a 328 and won their own invitational Monday at Smoky Hill Country Club. They finished 35 shots ahead of second place Dodge City. Garden City placed third and TMP-Marian fourth.

Hays High senior Taleia McCrae shot a 78 and place third to lead the Indians. Katie Dinkel finished fifth with a 79, Abbie Norris seventh after an 85 and Claire Humphrey eighth with an 86.

Gracie Wente shot an 89 and would have placed 10th but since she was on the JV squad wasn't figured into the top-10.

TMP-Marian was led by Madelyn Rozean who placed 10th with a 90.

Salina South's Zoe Norton was individual champ with a 76. Garden City's Ryan Warren was second with a 78

TEAM RESULTS 1. Hays High 328 2. Dodge City 363 3 Garden City 370 4. TMP-Marian 389 5. Hays B 396 6. Salina South 401 7. Great Bend 414 8. Hays C 418 9. Liberal 428

Top 10 MEDALISTS 1. Zoe Norton Salina South 76 2. Ryan Warren Garden City 78 3. Taleia McCrae Hays High 78 4. Corbyn Marquess Plainville 78 5. Katie Dinkel Hays High 79 6. Tiley Fry Dodge City 82 7. Abbie Norris Hays High 85 8. Claire Humphrey Hays High 86 9. Ashlyn Armstrong Dodge City 87 10. Madelyn Rozean TMP-Marian 90

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630411516380.jpeg" alt="HHS girls golf team" />
 <figcaption>HHS girls golf team</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS - The Hays High girls' golf team won their season-opening tournament. The Indians shot a 328 and won their own invitational Monday at Smoky Hill Country Club. They finished 35 shots ahead of second place Dodge City. Garden City placed third and TMP-Marian fourth.Hays High senior Taleia McCrae shot a 78 and place third to lead the Indians. Katie Dinkel finished fifth with a 79, Abbie Norris seventh after an 85 and Claire Humphrey eighth with an 86.Gracie Wente shot an 89 and would have placed 10th but since she was on the JV squad wasn't figured into the top-10.TMP-Marian was led by Madelyn Rozean who placed 10th with a 90.Salina South's Zoe Norton was individual champ with a 76. Garden City's Ryan Warren was second with a 78TEAM RESULTS 1. Hays High 328 2. Dodge City 363 3 Garden City 370 4. TMP-Marian 389 5. Hays B 396 6. Salina South 401 7. Great Bend 414 8. Hays C 418 9. Liberal 428Top 10 MEDALISTS 1. Zoe Norton Salina South 76 2. Ryan Warren Garden City 78 3. Taleia McCrae Hays High 78 4. Corbyn Marquess Plainville 78 5. Katie Dinkel Hays High 79 6. Tiley Fry Dodge City 82 7. Abbie Norris Hays High 85 8. Claire Humphrey Hays High 86 9. Ashlyn Armstrong Dodge City 87 10. Madelyn Rozean TMP-Marian 90

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