Fort Hays State Football moved up one spot in the latest D2Football.com Top 25 Poll released on Monday, October 6. The Tigers are back at No. 20 in the poll, a ranking they have held twice before this season.

Fort Hays State is now 4-2 overall and 3-1 in the MIAA after a 28-21 win over Missouri Southern last week. The Tigers join Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State in this week's D2Football.com Top 25. Pittsburg State moved up to No. 7 in the poll, while Northwest Missouri State moved up to No. 18. Pittsburg State, like FHSU, is 4-2 overall on the season, while NWMSU is 4-1 overall.

Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State are among the Top 25 of the latest AFCA Poll. PSU is ranked No. 15 this week, while NWMSU is No. 22. Fort Hays State and Nebraska-Kearney are among the receiving votes section of the poll. Fort Hays State is the third-highest receiving votes team, receiving 14 voting points.

Fort Hays State plays host to Central Oklahoma (2-3, 2-2 MIAA) this Saturday (Oct. 11). Central Oklahoma started the year ranked No. 5 in the AFCA poll and No. 3 in the D2Football.com Poll, but has since fell out of both. However, UCO lost to a UT Permian Basin team that is now in the top-10 of both polls, lost to a Northwest Missouri State team that is now in the top-25 of both polls, and lost by one point to 3-2 Central Missouri last week. The Bronchos did hand top-25 Pittsburg State a loss earlier this year.

Below are the Division II Top 25 Polls for Monday, October 6, 2025.

D2Football.com Top 25 Poll - October 6, 2025 Rank	Team	Record	Prev 1	Ferris State	5-0	1 2	Harding	5-0	2 3	Kutztown	5-0	3 4	UT Permian Basin	5-0	7 5	West Florida	5-0	4 6	Western Colorado	5-0	5 7	Pittsburg State	4-2	8 8	Minnesota Duluth	6-0	9 9	Minnesota State	5-1	10 10	Angelo State	4-1	6 11	CSU Pueblo	5-1	12 12	Augustana	6-0	13 13	Grand Valley State	3-1	14 14	West Alabama	6-0	15 15	Central Washington	4-1	17 16	Indianapolis	4-1	18 17	Virginia Union	4-1	19 18	Northwest Missouri State	4-1	20 19	California	4-1	11 20	Fort Hays State	4-2	21 21	Findlay	5-0	23 22	UNC Pembroke	5-1	24 23	Ashland	4-1	25 24	Emory &amp; Henry	5-1	NR 25	Delta State	5-1	NR

AFCA Top 25 Poll - October 6, 2025 Rank	Team	Record	Pts	Prev 1	Ferris St. (31)	5-0	775	1 2	Harding	5-0	744	2 3	West Florida	5-0	702	3 4	Kutztown	5-0	684	4 5	Western Colorado	5-0	615	7 6	UT Permian Basin	5-0	608	9 7	Augustana (S.D.)	6-0	580	8 8	Grand Valley St.	3-1	527	10 9	West Alabama	5-0	505	11 10	Minnesota-Duluth	6-0	492	13 11	Colorado St.-Pueblo	5-1	454	12 12	Angelo St.	4-1	424	5 13	Central Washington	4-1	391	16 14	Minnesota St.	5-1	363	15 15	Pittsburg St.	4-2	338	17 16	California (Pa.)	4-1	283	6 17	Virginia Union	4-1	270	18 18	UIndy	5-1	258	19 19	Findlay	5-0	226	21 20	Delta St.	5-1	218	20 21	Frostburg St.	5-0	162	23 22	Northwest Missouri St.	4-1	127	24 23	UNC Pembroke	5-1	110	25 24t.	Ashland	4-1	37	NR 24t.	Johnson C. Smith	5-1	37	NR| 24t.	Slippery Rock	3-2	37	14

Receiving Votes: Benedict, 23; Indiana (Pa.), 15; Fort Hays St., 14; Southern Arkansas, 14; Charleston, 9; Catawba, 8; Emory &amp; Henry, 8; Nebraska-Kearney, 4; Chadron&nbsp;St., 3; Henderson St., 3; Upper Iowa, 3; Albany St., 2; Carson-Newman, 1; Edward

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759786861343.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State Football moved up one spot in the latest D2Football.com Top 25 Poll released on Monday, October 6. The Tigers are back at No. 20 in the poll, a ranking they have held twice before this season.Fort Hays State is now 4-2 overall and 3-1 in the MIAA after a 28-21 win over Missouri Southern last week. The Tigers join Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State in this week's D2Football.com Top 25. Pittsburg State moved up to No. 7 in the poll, while Northwest Missouri State moved up to No. 18. Pittsburg State, like FHSU, is 4-2 overall on the season, while NWMSU is 4-1 overall.Pittsburg State and Northwest Missouri State are among the Top 25 of the latest AFCA Poll. PSU is ranked No. 15 this week, while NWMSU is No. 22. Fort Hays State and Nebraska-Kearney are among the receiving votes section of the poll. Fort Hays State is the third-highest receiving votes team, receiving 14 voting points.Fort Hays State plays host to Central Oklahoma (2-3, 2-2 MIAA) this Saturday (Oct. 11). Central Oklahoma started the year ranked No. 5 in the AFCA poll and No. 3 in the D2Football.com Poll, but has since fell out of both. However, UCO lost to a UT Permian Basin team that is now in the top-10 of both polls, lost to a Northwest Missouri State team that is now in the top-25 of both polls, and lost by one point to 3-2 Central Missouri last week. The Bronchos did hand top-25 Pittsburg State a loss earlier this year.Below are the Division II Top 25 Polls for Monday, October 6, 2025.D2Football.com Top 25 Poll - October 6, 2025 Rank	Team	Record	Prev 1	Ferris State	5-0	1 2	Harding	5-0	2 3	Kutztown	5-0	3 4	UT Permian Basin	5-0	7 5	West Florida	5-0	4 6	Western Colorado	5-0	5 7	Pittsburg State	4-2	8 8	Minnesota Duluth	6-0	9 9	Minnesota State	5-1	10 10	Angelo State	4-1	6 11	CSU Pueblo	5-1	12 12	Augustana	6-0	13 13	Grand Valley State	3-1	14 14	West Alabama	6-0	15 15	Central Washington	4-1	17 16	Indianapolis	4-1	18 17	Virginia Union	4-1	19 18	Northwest Missouri State	4-1	20 19	California	4-1	11 20	Fort Hays State	4-2	21 21	Findlay	5-0	23 22	UNC Pembroke	5-1	24 23	Ashland	4-1	25 24	Emory &amp; Henry	5-1	NR 25	Delta State	5-1	NRAFCA Top 25 Poll - October 6, 2025 Rank	Team	Record	Pts	Prev 1	Ferris St. (31)	5-0	775	1 2	Harding	5-0	744	2 3	West Florida	5-0	702	3 4	Kutztown	5-0	684	4 5	Western Colorado	5-0	615	7 6	UT Permian Basin	5-0	608	9 7	Augustana (S.D.)	6-0	580	8 8	Grand Valley St.	3-1	527	10 9	West Alabama	5-0	505	11 10	Minnesota-Duluth	6-0	492	13 11	Colorado St.-Pueblo	5-1	454	12 12	Angelo St.	4-1	424	5 13	Central Washington	4-1	391	16 14	Minnesota St.	5-1	363	15 15	Pittsburg St.	4-2	338	17 16	California (Pa.)	4-1	283	6 17	Virginia Union	4-1	270	18 18	UIndy	5-1	258	19 19	Findlay	5-0	226	21 20	Delta St.	5-1	218	20 21	Frostburg St.	5-0	162	23 22	Northwest Missouri St.	4-1	127	24 23	UNC Pembroke	5-1	110	25 24t.	Ashland	4-1	37	NR 24t.	Johnson C. Smith	5-1	37	NR| 24t.	Slippery Rock	3-2	37	14Receiving Votes: Benedict, 23; Indiana (Pa.), 15; Fort Hays St., 14; Southern Arkansas, 14; Charleston, 9; Catawba, 8; Emory &amp; Henry, 8; Nebraska-Kearney, 4; Chadron&nbsp;St., 3; Henderson St., 3; Upper Iowa, 3; Albany St., 2; Carson-Newman, 1; Edward

🏈 Tigers No. 20 in latest D2Football.com poll, receiving votes in AFCA rankings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team enters the 2025-26 season as the favorite in the MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll. The Tigers were tabbed second in the Media Poll. Fort Hays State finished second in the MIAA regular season standings last year and was the MIAA Tournament runner-up. The Tigers went on to make their 10th appearance overall in the NCAA Tournament and ninth in the last 11 years.

The Tigers received enough voting points (152) overall in the Coaches Poll to top the list, even though they collected just two first-place votes. Coaches gave Washburn the most first-place votes with six and the Ichabods had 148 points to place second in the poll, while Pittsburg State received five first-place votes and 144 points for third. Central Missouri also received a first-place vote and placed fourth.

In the Media Poll, 2024-25 MIAA regular season and tournament champion Pittsburg State was selected first with 13 first-place votes and 326 points overall. Fort Hays State was second with five first-place votes and 299 points. Washburn placed third with three first-place votes and 276 points, while Central Missouri grabbed four first-place votes with 271 points to place fourth.

This is the fourth time the Tigers have been picked first in at least one of the preseason polls. FHSU topped both bolls in both 2019-20 and in 2021-22. Last year the Tigers topped the preseason media poll and were second in the coaches poll, while this year it flipped the other way around. FHSU has been in the top five of the preseason coaches poll each of the last 14 years. This is the seventh time the Tigers have been picked in the top two of the preseason coaches poll during that span.

Fort Hays State finished the 2024-25 season 28-5 overall and 16-3 in the MIAA. Fort Hays State reached the NCAA Tournament Central Regional Semifinals for the second-straight year, defeating Southern Nazarene before falling to Southwest Minnesota State. After winning the MIAA regular season and tournament, Pittsburg State went on to win the Central Regional and made the national semifinals.

Fort Hays State extended its streak of 20-win seasons to 14 last year, the longest active streak in Division II and tied for the fifth-longest such streak across all divisions of NCAA women's basketball. UCONN, Baylor, Florida Gulf Coast, and Louisville are four Division I programs with longer streaks.

The Tigers have been the most consistent team in the conference over the last decade, winning 283 games over the last 11 seasons, 30 more than the next closest team (Pittsburg State, 253).

Talia Kahrs enters her third year as head coach at Fort Hays State, now with a record of 53-13 leading the Tigers. FHSU has seven returning players, but return just one of their four regular starters from last year. However, they have two All-MIAA selections returning. Brooke Loewe was an All-MIAA Honorable Mention pick last year and broke the FHSU single-season record for assists with 233, which led NCAA Division II in total assists. Her 7.3 per game average was second-best in NCAA Division II (Gracie Stugart of Maryville led the nation at 7.4 per game). Talexa Weeter also earned All-MIAA Honorable Mention honors last year as the third-leading scorer on the team, averaging 14.6 points per contest, while pulling down 6.0 rebounds per game to rank second on the team. She is the top returning scorer and rebounder on the team this year.

Along with Loewe and Weeter, Ellie Stearns returns with plenty of starting experience in the past. She averaged 4.7 points per game last year and led the team in 3-point field goals made (35). Avery Lowe, Maddy Powell, Sarah Lawless, and Callie Ott also return. The seven returners combined for an average of 31.9 points per game last year. The Tigers have seven newcomers all looking to make an immediate impact as well.

The Tigers look to adjust to the exit of All-MIAA First Team performers Katie Wagner DeGarmo and Olivia Hollenbeck, who averaged 33.3 points per game as a pair. DeGarmo was the MIAA Player of the Year for a second-straight season in 2024-25 and Hollenbeck was the MIAA Defensive Player of the Year. Kate Dilsaver, an All-MIAA Honorable Mention pick and MIAA All-Defensive Team selection, also exhausted her eligibility after providing 9.1 points per game last year.

The Tigers will play one preseason exhibition game on Wednesday, October 29, at the University of Kansas. The regular season begins November 14-15 in St. Joseph, Mo. against a pair of regional opponents in Concordia-St. Paul and Sioux Falls. Concordia-St. Paul was also in the NCAA Central Regional last year with the Tigers. FHSU plays its first eight regular season games away from home before hosting Pittsburg State on December 13 in a non-conference contest.

2025-26 MIAA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL 1. Fort Hays State [2] – 152 points 2. Washburn [6] – 148 points 3. Pittsburg State [5] – 144 points 4. Central Missouri [1] – 138 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 135 points 6. Missouri Western – 99 points 7. Missouri Southern – 95 points 8. Northwest Missouri – 78 points 9. Northeastern State – 76 points 10. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 73 points 11. Emporia State – 48 points 12. Central Oklahoma – 44 points 13. Rogers State – 28 points 14. Newman – 16 points [#] - First Place Votes

2025-26 MIAA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL 1. Pittsburg State [13] – 326 points 2. Fort Hays State [5] – 299 points 3. Washburn [3] – 276 points 4. Central Missouri [4] – 271 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 268 points 6. Missouri Western – 227 points 7. Northwest Missouri – 187 points 8. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 185 points 9. Missouri Southern – 176 points 10. Emporia State – 127 points 11. Northeastern State – 111 points 12. Central Oklahoma – 92 points 13. Rogers State – 49 points 14. Newman – 31 points [#] - First Place Votes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759833829114.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's basketball team enters the 2025-26 season as the favorite in the MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll. The Tigers were tabbed second in the Media Poll. Fort Hays State finished second in the MIAA regular season standings last year and was the MIAA Tournament runner-up. The Tigers went on to make their 10th appearance overall in the NCAA Tournament and ninth in the last 11 years.The Tigers received enough voting points (152) overall in the Coaches Poll to top the list, even though they collected just two first-place votes. Coaches gave Washburn the most first-place votes with six and the Ichabods had 148 points to place second in the poll, while Pittsburg State received five first-place votes and 144 points for third. Central Missouri also received a first-place vote and placed fourth.In the Media Poll, 2024-25 MIAA regular season and tournament champion Pittsburg State was selected first with 13 first-place votes and 326 points overall. Fort Hays State was second with five first-place votes and 299 points. Washburn placed third with three first-place votes and 276 points, while Central Missouri grabbed four first-place votes with 271 points to place fourth.This is the fourth time the Tigers have been picked first in at least one of the preseason polls. FHSU topped both bolls in both 2019-20 and in 2021-22. Last year the Tigers topped the preseason media poll and were second in the coaches poll, while this year it flipped the other way around. FHSU has been in the top five of the preseason coaches poll each of the last 14 years. This is the seventh time the Tigers have been picked in the top two of the preseason coaches poll during that span.Fort Hays State finished the 2024-25 season 28-5 overall and 16-3 in the MIAA. Fort Hays State reached the NCAA Tournament Central Regional Semifinals for the second-straight year, defeating Southern Nazarene before falling to Southwest Minnesota State. After winning the MIAA regular season and tournament, Pittsburg State went on to win the Central Regional and made the national semifinals.Fort Hays State extended its streak of 20-win seasons to 14 last year, the longest active streak in Division II and tied for the fifth-longest such streak across all divisions of NCAA women's basketball. UCONN, Baylor, Florida Gulf Coast, and Louisville are four Division I programs with longer streaks.The Tigers have been the most consistent team in the conference over the last decade, winning 283 games over the last 11 seasons, 30 more than the next closest team (Pittsburg State, 253).Talia Kahrs enters her third year as head coach at Fort Hays State, now with a record of 53-13 leading the Tigers. FHSU has seven returning players, but return just one of their four regular starters from last year. However, they have two All-MIAA selections returning. Brooke Loewe was an All-MIAA Honorable Mention pick last year and broke the FHSU single-season record for assists with 233, which led NCAA Division II in total assists. Her 7.3 per game average was second-best in NCAA Division II (Gracie Stugart of Maryville led the nation at 7.4 per game). Talexa Weeter also earned All-MIAA Honorable Mention honors last year as the third-leading scorer on the team, averaging 14.6 points per contest, while pulling down 6.0 rebounds per game to rank second on the team. She is the top returning scorer and rebounder on the team this year.Along with Loewe and Weeter, Ellie Stearns returns with plenty of starting experience in the past. She averaged 4.7 points per game last year and led the team in 3-point field goals made (35). Avery Lowe, Maddy Powell, Sarah Lawless, and Callie Ott also return. The seven returners combined for an average of 31.9 points per game last year. The Tigers have seven newcomers all looking to make an immediate impact as well.The Tigers look to adjust to the exit of All-MIAA First Team performers Katie Wagner DeGarmo and Olivia Hollenbeck, who averaged 33.3 points per game as a pair. DeGarmo was the MIAA Player of the Year for a second-straight season in 2024-25 and Hollenbeck was the MIAA Defensive Player of the Year. Kate Dilsaver, an All-MIAA Honorable Mention pick and MIAA All-Defensive Team selection, also exhausted her eligibility after providing 9.1 points per game last year.The Tigers will play one preseason exhibition game on Wednesday, October 29, at the University of Kansas. The regular season begins November 14-15 in St. Joseph, Mo. against a pair of regional opponents in Concordia-St. Paul and Sioux Falls. Concordia-St. Paul was also in the NCAA Central Regional last year with the Tigers. FHSU plays its first eight regular season games away from home before hosting Pittsburg State on December 13 in a non-conference contest.2025-26 MIAA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL 1. Fort Hays State [2] – 152 points 2. Washburn [6] – 148 points 3. Pittsburg State [5] – 144 points 4. Central Missouri [1] – 138 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 135 points 6. Missouri Western – 99 points 7. Missouri Southern – 95 points 8. Northwest Missouri – 78 points 9. Northeastern State – 76 points 10. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 73 points 11. Emporia State – 48 points 12. Central Oklahoma – 44 points 13. Rogers State – 28 points 14. Newman – 16 points [#] - First Place Votes2025-26 MIAA WOMEN'S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL 1. Pittsburg State [13] – 326 points 2. Fort Hays State [5] – 299 points 3. Washburn [3] – 276 points 4. Central Missouri [4] – 271 points 5. Nebraska Kearney – 268 points 6. Missouri Western – 227 points 7. Northwest Missouri – 187 points 8. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 185 points 9. Missouri Southern – 176 points 10. Emporia State – 127 points 11. Northeastern State – 111 points 12. Central Oklahoma – 92 points 13. Rogers State – 49 points 14. Newman – 31 points [#] - First Place Votes

🏀 FHSU women top MIAA preseason coaches poll, second in media rankings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The MIAA released its 2025-26 Preseason Basketball Polls on Monday (Oct. 6) at the annual MIAA Basketball Media Day. The Fort Hays State men have been tabbed second in the media poll and fourth in the coaches poll. The Tigers were the MIAA Tournament champions in 2024-25, punching their ticket to the NCAA Tournament for a second-straight year. It was FHSU's 15th appearance in the NCAA Tournament and ninth under head coach Mark Johnson.

Washburn, the 2024-25 MIAA regular season champion and national semifinalist in the NCAA Tournament, was picked first in both polls. The Ichabods were a unanimous pick at No. 1 in the coaches poll, taking 13 of the possible 14 first-place votes. Coaches are not able to vote for their own team, so the other first-place vote went to Rogers State. Ahead of the Tigers in the coaches poll were Rogers State and Central Oklahoma. In the media poll, Washburn received 23 of 25 first-place votes, while Fort Hays State and Rogers State each received one.

In 2024-25, the Tigers went 22-10 overall and finished fourth in the MIAA standings with a conference record of 12-7. However, since the MIAA used KPI ratings to seed the conference tournament, FHSU received the No. 2 seed for the MIAA Tournament. The Tigers went on to win the tournament title for a second time in their MIAA history, joining the 2010-11 team. FHSU was the No. 2 seed that year as well.

Kyle Grill is the only returning starter for the Tigers from last year's squad. He earned All-MIAA Honorable Mention honors for the season and also earned an MIAA All-Tournament Team selection helping the Tigers to their national tournament berth. Grill averaged 11.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game last year. The Tigers have several of their reserves from the 2024-25 season returning, including Dan Mukuna, Lucas Hammeke, Muhamed Kante, and Eli Lawson. Jahvari Martino, Tory Homan, and Alec Carlson also return after redshirting their first year at FHSU. The Tigers welcome six newcomers to the team in 2025-26.

The Tigers lost an average of 37.8 points per game in the four starters who exhausted their eligibility last year, which included five-time All-MIAA selection Kaleb Hammeke and MIAA All-Defensive Team selection Shaun Riley. The FHSU starting five in 2024-25 produced 75 percent of the team's scoring.

FHSU averaged 66.3 points per game offensively last year, but the Tigers were the nation's top defensive team for the second-straight year, allowing just 59.9 points per game to opponents. It was the second-straight year the Tigers allowed less than 60 points per game on average.

Fort Hays State will be in its 25th season under the leadership of Mark Johnson, who enters the year with a 473-230 record overall. He is the all-time wins leader at FHSU. The Tigers open their year with an exhibition contest at the University of Kansas on Tuesday, October 28. Their regular season begins at home November 15-16 with a pair of contests against Southwest Minnesota State and Concordia-St. Paul. The Tigers will be at home five times in the month of November.

Below are the MIAA Preseason Men's Basketball Polls for 2025-26.

2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL 1. Washburn [13] – 169 points 2. Rogers State [1] – 141 points 3. Central Oklahoma – 137 points 4. Fort Hays State – 134 points 5. Pittsburg State – 127 points 6. Nebraska Kearney – 106 points 7. Central Missouri – 102 points 8. Missouri Western – 79 points 9. Northeastern State – 62 points 10. Emporia State – 59 points 11. Newman – 52 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 41 points 13. Missouri Southern – 35 points 14. Northwest Missouri – 30 points [#] - First Place Votes

2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL 1. Washburn [23] – 346 points 2. Fort Hays State [1] – 297 points 3. Rogers State [1] – 286 points 4. Pittsburg State – 280 points 5. Central Oklahoma – 229 points 6. Nebraska Kearney – 211 points 7. Central Missouri – 186 points 8. Missouri Western – 169 points 9. Emporia State – 159 points 10. Northeastern State – 132 points 11. Northwest Missouri – 108 points 12. Newman – 93 points 13. Missouri Southern – 69 points 14. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 59 points [#] - First Place Votes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759833515955.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – The MIAA released its 2025-26 Preseason Basketball Polls on Monday (Oct. 6) at the annual MIAA Basketball Media Day. The Fort Hays State men have been tabbed second in the media poll and fourth in the coaches poll. The Tigers were the MIAA Tournament champions in 2024-25, punching their ticket to the NCAA Tournament for a second-straight year. It was FHSU's 15th appearance in the NCAA Tournament and ninth under head coach Mark Johnson.Washburn, the 2024-25 MIAA regular season champion and national semifinalist in the NCAA Tournament, was picked first in both polls. The Ichabods were a unanimous pick at No. 1 in the coaches poll, taking 13 of the possible 14 first-place votes. Coaches are not able to vote for their own team, so the other first-place vote went to Rogers State. Ahead of the Tigers in the coaches poll were Rogers State and Central Oklahoma. In the media poll, Washburn received 23 of 25 first-place votes, while Fort Hays State and Rogers State each received one.In 2024-25, the Tigers went 22-10 overall and finished fourth in the MIAA standings with a conference record of 12-7. However, since the MIAA used KPI ratings to seed the conference tournament, FHSU received the No. 2 seed for the MIAA Tournament. The Tigers went on to win the tournament title for a second time in their MIAA history, joining the 2010-11 team. FHSU was the No. 2 seed that year as well.Kyle Grill is the only returning starter for the Tigers from last year's squad. He earned All-MIAA Honorable Mention honors for the season and also earned an MIAA All-Tournament Team selection helping the Tigers to their national tournament berth. Grill averaged 11.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game last year. The Tigers have several of their reserves from the 2024-25 season returning, including Dan Mukuna, Lucas Hammeke, Muhamed Kante, and Eli Lawson. Jahvari Martino, Tory Homan, and Alec Carlson also return after redshirting their first year at FHSU. The Tigers welcome six newcomers to the team in 2025-26.The Tigers lost an average of 37.8 points per game in the four starters who exhausted their eligibility last year, which included five-time All-MIAA selection Kaleb Hammeke and MIAA All-Defensive Team selection Shaun Riley. The FHSU starting five in 2024-25 produced 75 percent of the team's scoring.FHSU averaged 66.3 points per game offensively last year, but the Tigers were the nation's top defensive team for the second-straight year, allowing just 59.9 points per game to opponents. It was the second-straight year the Tigers allowed less than 60 points per game on average.Fort Hays State will be in its 25th season under the leadership of Mark Johnson, who enters the year with a 473-230 record overall. He is the all-time wins leader at FHSU. The Tigers open their year with an exhibition contest at the University of Kansas on Tuesday, October 28. Their regular season begins at home November 15-16 with a pair of contests against Southwest Minnesota State and Concordia-St. Paul. The Tigers will be at home five times in the month of November.Below are the MIAA Preseason Men's Basketball Polls for 2025-26.2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL 1. Washburn [13] – 169 points 2. Rogers State [1] – 141 points 3. Central Oklahoma – 137 points 4. Fort Hays State – 134 points 5. Pittsburg State – 127 points 6. Nebraska Kearney – 106 points 7. Central Missouri – 102 points 8. Missouri Western – 79 points 9. Northeastern State – 62 points 10. Emporia State – 59 points 11. Newman – 52 points 12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 41 points 13. Missouri Southern – 35 points 14. Northwest Missouri – 30 points [#] - First Place Votes2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL 1. Washburn [23] – 346 points 2. Fort Hays State [1] – 297 points 3. Rogers State [1] – 286 points 4. Pittsburg State – 280 points 5. Central Oklahoma – 229 points 6. Nebraska Kearney – 211 points 7. Central Missouri – 186 points 8. Missouri Western – 169 points 9. Emporia State – 159 points 10. Northeastern State – 132 points 11. Northwest Missouri – 108 points 12. Newman – 93 points 13. Missouri Southern – 69 points 14. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 59 points [#] - First Place Votes

🏀 Tiger men second and fourth in MIAA preseason polls

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State defensive back Michael Chavez was named the MIAA Defensive Athlete of the Week, presented by FieldTurf, on Monday, October 6 for his performance in a win at Missouri Southern this past Saturday. This is the third time a Tiger has been the Defensive Athlete of the Week this season after John Johnson collected the honor twice.

Chavez had a big all-around performance for the Tigers in the 28-21 win at Missouri Southern. He finished the game with eight tackles, one interception, one strip sack that resulted in a turnover, and one fumble recovery. In the second quarter, Chavez forced a fumble on his sack, recovered by the Tigers at the MSSU 37. It led to a touchdown, pushing the FHSU lead to 17-7. Early in the third quarter, he recovered a fumble forced by John Johnson in MSSU territory that led to a field goal to push the Tiger lead to 20-14. In the fourth quarter with the Tigers up 28-14, Chavez intercepted an MSSU pass in FHSU territory, which allowed FHSU to chew more time off the clock before eventually winning by seven.

Chavez joined Donovyn Omolo of Central Missouri (Offensive Athlete of the Week) and Divante Herrig-Brittian of Emporia State (Special Teams Athlete of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the conference office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759782879788.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State defensive back Michael Chavez was named the MIAA Defensive Athlete of the Week, presented by FieldTurf, on Monday, October 6 for his performance in a win at Missouri Southern this past Saturday. This is the third time a Tiger has been the Defensive Athlete of the Week this season after John Johnson collected the honor twice.Chavez had a big all-around performance for the Tigers in the 28-21 win at Missouri Southern. He finished the game with eight tackles, one interception, one strip sack that resulted in a turnover, and one fumble recovery. In the second quarter, Chavez forced a fumble on his sack, recovered by the Tigers at the MSSU 37. It led to a touchdown, pushing the FHSU lead to 17-7. Early in the third quarter, he recovered a fumble forced by John Johnson in MSSU territory that led to a field goal to push the Tiger lead to 20-14. In the fourth quarter with the Tigers up 28-14, Chavez intercepted an MSSU pass in FHSU territory, which allowed FHSU to chew more time off the clock before eventually winning by seven.Chavez joined Donovyn Omolo of Central Missouri (Offensive Athlete of the Week) and Divante Herrig-Brittian of Emporia State (Special Teams Athlete of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the conference office.

🏈 FHSU's Chavez named MIAA Defensive Athlete of the Week

🎥🏈 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week HHS vs Junction City

🎥🏈 Redeem Designs Plays of the Week TMP vs Smith Center

Class 6A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Maize (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Wichita Northwest (4-1) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Junction City (3-2) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Manhattan (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Lawrence Free State (4-1)

Class 5A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. Thomas Aquinas (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Great Bend (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hays (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Mill Valley (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. James Academy (4-1)

Class 4A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Kapaun Mt. Carmel (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Bishop Miege (2-3) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Eudora (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
McPherson (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Wellington (4-1)

Class 3A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Andale (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Topeka Hayden (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Holcomb (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Rock Creek (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hugoton (5-0)

Class 2A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Southeast of Saline (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Nemaha Central (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Osage City (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hoisington (4-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Garden Plain (4-1)

Class 1A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Jackson Heights (5-0) 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Sterling (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Rossville (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. Marys Colgan (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Smith Center (5-0)

Class 8M-I Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
South Central (4-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Little River (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Trego (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central Plains (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Lyndon (4-0)

Class 8M-II Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Axtell (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Victoria (4-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hanover (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hodgeman County (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hutchinson Central Christian (5-0)

Class 6M Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Weskan (4-1) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Cunningham (4-1) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Ingalls (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Tescott (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
South Barber (4-1)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693413418452.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Class 6A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Maize (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Wichita Northwest (4-1) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Junction City (3-2) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Manhattan (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Lawrence Free State (4-1)Class 5A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. Thomas Aquinas (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Great Bend (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hays (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Mill Valley (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. James Academy (4-1)Class 4A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Kapaun Mt. Carmel (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Bishop Miege (2-3) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Eudora (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
McPherson (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Wellington (4-1)Class 3A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Andale (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Topeka Hayden (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Holcomb (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Rock Creek (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hugoton (5-0)Class 2A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Southeast of Saline (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Nemaha Central (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Osage City (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hoisington (4-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Garden Plain (4-1)Class 1A Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Jackson Heights (5-0) 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Sterling (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Rossville (4-1) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
St. Marys Colgan (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Smith Center (5-0)Class 8M-I Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
South Central (4-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Little River (5-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Trego (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Central Plains (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Lyndon (4-0)Class 8M-II Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Axtell (5-0) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Victoria (4-0) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hanover (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hodgeman County (5-0) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Hutchinson Central Christian (5-0)Class 6M Rankings 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Weskan (4-1) 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Cunningham (4-1) 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Ingalls (5-0) 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Tescott (4-1) 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
South Barber (4-1)

🏈 Kpreps rankings ahead of Week 6

Tiger Talk with football coach Chris Brown airs Monday at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.

Tiger Talk with football coach Chris Brown airs Monday at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (October 6, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hg8vg-198616c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk (October 6, 2025)

The MIAA KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association announced its preseason rankings for the 2025-26 men's basketball season. Washburn was picked as the favorite to take home this season's hardware by MIAA head coaches and media representatives.

The MIAA tips off the 2025-26 NCAA Division II basketball season today in downtown Kansas City for its annual Basketball Media Day, presented by Seigfreid Bingham. All 28 MIAA head coaches will gather at the College Basketball Experience to speak on the upcoming season and take questions from media members in attendance. Fans can watch the 2026 MIAA Basketball Media Day live, for free, on The MIAA Network.

Washburn, the league's defending regular season champion, finished at the top of both the coaches and media preseason polls. The Ichabods were the unanimous favorite among MIAA head coaches, totaling 169 points and 13 first-place votes. They totaled 346 points and 23 first-place selections from media members who cover MIAA basketball.  

The Ichabods went 30-4 overall and 17-2 against league competition last season to clinch the program's first outright MIAA regular season title since the 2003-04 season. After being upset in the MIAA tournament quarterfinals, the Bods received a bid into the NCAA postseason, where they were crowned champions of the Central Region and advanced to compete for a national title. Washburn ended its 2024-25 season in the Division II Final Four, falling to the eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern.

Rogers State received its best preseason rankings since joining the MIAA in 2019. The Hillcats finished second in the coaches poll with 141 points and one first-place selection, and third in the media poll with 286 points and another first-place nod. They ended last season 13-6 in the MIAA and 23-10 overall.

Fort Hays State, the defending MIAA tournament champion, finished third in the MIAA coaches poll and second in the media poll. The Tigers ended their 2024-25 campaign 12-7 in the MIAA and 22-10 overall. They were the only MIAA team to join the Ichabods in the NCAA postseason, where they suffered a first-round loss in the Central Region Championship.

Both MIAA coaches and media members also included Central Oklahoma and Pittsburg State in their top five. The full rankings for the 2025-26 MIAA men's basketball preseason coaches and media polls are listed below.

The 2025-26 NCAA Division II basketball season will officially tip off on Friday, October 31, with MIAA teams competing in D2CCA Tip-Off Classics. This season will feature one new head coach on the men's side with Brooks McKowen taking over the Griffon basketball program.

The 2026 MIAA Basketball Championships will return to the historic Municipal March 4-8 in downtown Kansas City. To view the complete 2025-26 schedules for all 14 MIAA men's basketball programs, visit theMIAA.com/mensbasketball.  

2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759759464769.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The MIAA KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association announced its preseason rankings for the 2025-26 men's basketball season. Washburn was picked as the favorite to take home this season's hardware by MIAA head coaches and media representatives.The MIAA tips off the 2025-26 NCAA Division II basketball season today in downtown Kansas City for its annual Basketball Media Day, presented by Seigfreid Bingham. All 28 MIAA head coaches will gather at the College Basketball Experience to speak on the upcoming season and take questions from media members in attendance. Fans can watch the 2026 MIAA Basketball Media Day live, for free, on The MIAA Network.Washburn, the league's defending regular season champion, finished at the top of both the coaches and media preseason polls. The Ichabods were the unanimous favorite among MIAA head coaches, totaling 169 points and 13 first-place votes. They totaled 346 points and 23 first-place selections from media members who cover MIAA basketball. The Ichabods went 30-4 overall and 17-2 against league competition last season to clinch the program's first outright MIAA regular season title since the 2003-04 season. After being upset in the MIAA tournament quarterfinals, the Bods received a bid into the NCAA postseason, where they were crowned champions of the Central Region and advanced to compete for a national title. Washburn ended its 2024-25 season in the Division II Final Four, falling to the eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern.Rogers State received its best preseason rankings since joining the MIAA in 2019. The Hillcats finished second in the coaches poll with 141 points and one first-place selection, and third in the media poll with 286 points and another first-place nod. They ended last season 13-6 in the MIAA and 23-10 overall.Fort Hays State, the defending MIAA tournament champion, finished third in the MIAA coaches poll and second in the media poll. The Tigers ended their 2024-25 campaign 12-7 in the MIAA and 22-10 overall. They were the only MIAA team to join the Ichabods in the NCAA postseason, where they suffered a first-round loss in the Central Region Championship.Both MIAA coaches and media members also included Central Oklahoma and Pittsburg State in their top five. The full rankings for the 2025-26 MIAA men's basketball preseason coaches and media polls are listed below.The 2025-26 NCAA Division II basketball season will officially tip off on Friday, October 31, with MIAA teams competing in D2CCA Tip-Off Classics. This season will feature one new head coach on the men's side with Brooks McKowen taking over the Griffon basketball program.The 2026 MIAA Basketball Championships will return to the historic Municipal March 4-8 in downtown Kansas City. To view the complete 2025-26 schedules for all 14 MIAA men's basketball programs, visit theMIAA.com/mensbasketball. 2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL1. Washburn [13] – 169 points2. Rogers State [1] – 141 points3. Central Oklahoma – 137 points4. Fort Hays State – 134 points5. Pittsburg State – 127 points6. Nebraska Kearney – 106 points7. Central Missouri – 102 points8. Missouri Western – 79 points9. Northeastern State – 62 points10. Emporia State – 59 points11. Newman – 52 points12. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 41 points13. Missouri Southern – 35 points14. Northwest Missouri – 30 points[#] - First Place Votes2025-26 MIAA MEN'S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL1. Washburn [23] – 346 points2. Fort Hays State [1] – 297 points3. Rogers State [1] – 286 points4. Pittsburg State – 280 points5. Central Oklahoma – 229 points6. Nebraska Kearney – 211 points7. Central Missouri – 186 points8. Missouri Western – 169 points9. Emporia State – 159 points10. Northeastern State – 132 points11. Northwest Missouri – 108 points12. Newman – 93 points13. Missouri Southern – 69 points14. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 59 points[#] - First Place Votes

🏀 2025-26 MIAA men's basketball preseason polls announced

Fort Hays State football travels to Joplin to face Missouri Southern State at Fred G. Hughes Stadium on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

Fort Hays State football travels to Joplin to face Missouri Southern State at Fred G. Hughes Stadium on Saturday, October 4, 2025.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-FB at Missouri Southern State (Oct. 4, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7sr9w-1985d24-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-FB at Missouri Southern

The MIAA KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association announced its preseason rankings for the 2025-26 women’s basketball season. The Tigers of Fort Hays State led the coaches poll while the Pittsburg State Gorillas finished as the top team in the media poll.

The MIAA tips off the 2025-26 basketball season today, Monday, October 6, at the College Basketball Experience in Kansas City as the Association hosts its annual Basketball Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham. Fans can watch the 2026 MIAA Basketball Media Day live, for free, on The MIAA Network.

It was a close battle for the No. 1 spot in the 2025-26 coaches preseason poll with the top three teams finishing just four points from one another, while both the MIAA coaches and media members who cover MIAA teams selected the same five teams to house in their top five.

Fort Hays State topped the MIAA coaches poll with 152 points and two first-place votes. The Tigers finished the 2024-25 season 28-5 overall and 16-3 in the MIAA to finish second in the regular season standings. Fort Hays was also the runner-up of the 2025 MIAA Basketball Championship and earned an at-large bid into the NCAA postseason, where their season ended in the regional semifinals. The Tigers were picked second in the media poll with 299 points and five first-place selections.

Washburn finished second in the coaches’ poll with 148 points and six first-place votes. The Ichabods went 18-13 overall and finished 11-8 in MIAA action last season. They return last season’s Co-Newcomer of the Year Payton Sterk, and All-Defensive Team and Second Team All-MIAA selection Yiibari Nwidadah. Washburn was picked third in the media’s preseason poll with 276 points and three first-place votes.

The Gorillas concluded the coaches’ top three teams with 114 points and five first-place selections, but led the media poll with a 27-point lead and 13 first-place nods. Pitt State is the league’s reigning regular season champion and has won the last two MIAA tournament titles. The Gorillas took their 2024-25 season all the way to the NCAA Division II National Semifinals, where they lost to the eventual national champion, Grand Valley State. Pitt ended their historic run season 33-4 overall and 18-1 in the MIAA.

Central Missouri and Nebraska Kearney finished fourth and fifth in both the coaches and media polls. The Jennies went 17-15 overall and 8-11 in the MIAA last season while the Lopers finished 20-9 overall, 13-6 in the MIAA.

The complete rankings for both the MIAA coaches and media preseason women’s basketball polls are listed below. 

The 2025-26 MIAA women’s basketball season will feature three new head coaches – MJ Baker is entering her first season at Emporia State, Hannah Moeller is entering her first season at Central Oklahoma, and Luke Scheidecker is entering his first season at Missouri Western.

The NCAA Division II women’s basketball season officially tips off Friday, October 31, with MIAA teams competing in Division II Tip Off Classic events. The 2026 MIAA Basketball Championships are scheduled for March 4-8 at the historic Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo. To view the complete 2025-26 schedules for all 14 MIAA women’s basketball programs, visit theMIAA.com/womensbasketball.

2025-26 MIAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL

2025-26 MIAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759758710674.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The MIAA KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association announced its preseason rankings for the 2025-26 women’s basketball season. The Tigers of Fort Hays State led the coaches poll while the Pittsburg State Gorillas finished as the top team in the media poll.The MIAA tips off the 2025-26 basketball season today, Monday, October 6, at the College Basketball Experience in Kansas City as the Association hosts its annual Basketball Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham. Fans can watch the 2026 MIAA Basketball Media Day live, for free, on The MIAA Network.It was a close battle for the No. 1 spot in the 2025-26 coaches preseason poll with the top three teams finishing just four points from one another, while both the MIAA coaches and media members who cover MIAA teams selected the same five teams to house in their top five.Fort Hays State topped the MIAA coaches poll with 152 points and two first-place votes. The Tigers finished the 2024-25 season 28-5 overall and 16-3 in the MIAA to finish second in the regular season standings. Fort Hays was also the runner-up of the 2025 MIAA Basketball Championship and earned an at-large bid into the NCAA postseason, where their season ended in the regional semifinals. The Tigers were picked second in the media poll with 299 points and five first-place selections.Washburn finished second in the coaches’ poll with 148 points and six first-place votes. The Ichabods went 18-13 overall and finished 11-8 in MIAA action last season. They return last season’s Co-Newcomer of the Year Payton Sterk, and All-Defensive Team and Second Team All-MIAA selection Yiibari Nwidadah. Washburn was picked third in the media’s preseason poll with 276 points and three first-place votes.The Gorillas concluded the coaches’ top three teams with 114 points and five first-place selections, but led the media poll with a 27-point lead and 13 first-place nods. Pitt State is the league’s reigning regular season champion and has won the last two MIAA tournament titles. The Gorillas took their 2024-25 season all the way to the NCAA Division II National Semifinals, where they lost to the eventual national champion, Grand Valley State. Pitt ended their historic run season 33-4 overall and 18-1 in the MIAA.Central Missouri and Nebraska Kearney finished fourth and fifth in both the coaches and media polls. The Jennies went 17-15 overall and 8-11 in the MIAA last season while the Lopers finished 20-9 overall, 13-6 in the MIAA.The complete rankings for both the MIAA coaches and media preseason women’s basketball polls are listed below. The 2025-26 MIAA women’s basketball season will feature three new head coaches – MJ Baker is entering her first season at Emporia State, Hannah Moeller is entering her first season at Central Oklahoma, and Luke Scheidecker is entering his first season at Missouri Western.The NCAA Division II women’s basketball season officially tips off Friday, October 31, with MIAA teams competing in Division II Tip Off Classic events. The 2026 MIAA Basketball Championships are scheduled for March 4-8 at the historic Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City, Mo. To view the complete 2025-26 schedules for all 14 MIAA women’s basketball programs, visit theMIAA.com/womensbasketball.2025-26 MIAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACHES POLL1. Fort Hays State [2] – 152 points2. Washburn [6] – 148 points3. Pittsburg State [5] – 144 points4. Central Missouri [1] – 138 points5. Nebraska Kearney – 135 points6. Missouri Western – 99 points7. Missouri Southern – 95 points8. Northwest Missouri – 78 points9. Northeastern State – 76 points10. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 73 points11. Emporia State – 48 points12. Central Oklahoma – 44 points13. Rogers State – 28 points14. Newman – 16 points[#] - First Place Votes2025-26 MIAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL MEDIA POLL1. Pittsburg State [13] – 326 points2. Fort Hays State [5] – 299 points3. Washburn [3] – 276 points4. Central Missouri [4] – 271 points5. Nebraska Kearney – 268 points6. Missouri Western – 227 points7. Northwest Missouri – 187 points8. Arkansas-Fort Smith – 185 points9. Missouri Southern – 176 points10. Emporia State – 127 points11. Northeastern State – 111 points12. Central Oklahoma – 92 points13. Rogers State – 49 points14. Newman – 31 points[#] - First Place Votes

🏀 2025-26 MIAA women's basketball preseason polls announced

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - MIAA Basketball Media Day for the upcoming 2025-26 season takes place on Monday (Oct. 6) at The College Basketball Experience in downtown Kansas City, presented by Seigfreid Bingham. The event will stream live on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network</a> for FREE. The event starts at 9:00 a.m. and lasts until about 2:00 p.m.

<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">Click here to watch FREE</a>

The invite-only event features press conferences with head coaches from all 14 conference schools along with MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy's press conference beginning the day at 9:00 a.m., which will include the announcement of the Preseason Coaches and Media Polls. Following the Commissioner's remarks, media emcee host Brenda VanLengen will welcome the first men's and women's head coaches to the stage.

Fort Hays State takes the podium at 12:15 p.m. At that time, head coaches Mark Johnson and Talia Kahrs will take questions from the media.

The MIAA Network can be viewed on desktop, mobile devices, and Internet-connected television devices anywhere in the world. Individuals can use The MIAA Network website or The MIAA Network apps for Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku to view media day.

Fans can participate in media day can tweet a question for their favorite coach using the hashtag #AskMIAA.

Below is the complete schedule for the 2025-26 MIAA Basketball Media Day press conferences.

PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULE: 9:00 AM - Commissioner Racy

SESSION I 9:15 AM – Northwest Missouri, Austin Meyer and Matt Keeley 9:30 AM – Central Missouri, David Slifer and Adam Bohac 9:45 AM – Missouri Western, Luke Scheidecker and Brooks McKowen 10:00 AM – Break 10:15 AM – Rogers State, Heather Davis and Justin Barkley 10:30 AM – Northeastern State, Keith Ferguson and Ja Havens 10:45 AM – Central Oklahoma, Hannah Moeller and Bob Hoffman 11:00 AM – Arkansas-Fort Smith, Ryan McAdams and Zane Gibson 11:15 AM – Break

SESSION II 11:45 AM – Newman, Amy Briggs and RJ Allen 12:00 PM – Nebraska Kearney, Drew Johnson and Marty Levinson 12:15 PM – Fort Hays State, Talia Kahrs and Mark Johnson 12:30 PM – Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied and Jeff Boschee 12:45 PM – Break 1:00 PM – Missouri Southern, Ronnie Ressel and Sam McMahon 1:15 PM – Washburn, Lora Westling and Brett Ballard 1:30 PM – Emporia State, MJ Baker and Tom Billeter

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759745656139.png" alt="FHJSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHJSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - MIAA Basketball Media Day for the upcoming 2025-26 season takes place on Monday (Oct. 6) at The College Basketball Experience in downtown Kansas City, presented by Seigfreid Bingham. The event will stream live on <a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">The MIAA Network</a> for FREE. The event starts at 9:00 a.m. and lasts until about 2:00 p.m.<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/">Click here to watch FREE</a>The invite-only event features press conferences with head coaches from all 14 conference schools along with MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy's press conference beginning the day at 9:00 a.m., which will include the announcement of the Preseason Coaches and Media Polls. Following the Commissioner's remarks, media emcee host Brenda VanLengen will welcome the first men's and women's head coaches to the stage.Fort Hays State takes the podium at 12:15 p.m. At that time, head coaches Mark Johnson and Talia Kahrs will take questions from the media.The MIAA Network can be viewed on desktop, mobile devices, and Internet-connected television devices anywhere in the world. Individuals can use The MIAA Network website or The MIAA Network apps for Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku to view media day.Fans can participate in media day can tweet a question for their favorite coach using the hashtag #AskMIAA.Below is the complete schedule for the 2025-26 MIAA Basketball Media Day press conferences.PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULE: 9:00 AM - Commissioner Racy SESSION I 9:15 AM – Northwest Missouri, Austin Meyer and Matt Keeley 9:30 AM – Central Missouri, David Slifer and Adam Bohac 9:45 AM – Missouri Western, Luke Scheidecker and Brooks McKowen 10:00 AM – Break 10:15 AM – Rogers State, Heather Davis and Justin Barkley 10:30 AM – Northeastern State, Keith Ferguson and Ja Havens 10:45 AM – Central Oklahoma, Hannah Moeller and Bob Hoffman 11:00 AM – Arkansas-Fort Smith, Ryan McAdams and Zane Gibson 11:15 AM – BreakSESSION II 11:45 AM – Newman, Amy Briggs and RJ Allen 12:00 PM – Nebraska Kearney, Drew Johnson and Marty Levinson 12:15 PM – Fort Hays State, Talia Kahrs and Mark Johnson 12:30 PM – Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied and Jeff Boschee 12:45 PM – Break 1:00 PM – Missouri Southern, Ronnie Ressel and Sam McMahon 1:15 PM – Washburn, Lora Westling and Brett Ballard 1:30 PM – Emporia State, MJ Baker and Tom Billeter

📹🏀 Watch MIAA Basketball Media Day FREE on MIAA Network Monday

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Monday, October 6
 KJLS: Tiger Talk,
9:00am &nbsp;KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB at Jacksonville Jaguars, 6:00pm

Tuesday, October 7
 KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom,
6:00pm

Wednesday, October 8
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pm

Thursday, October 9
 none

Friday, October 10
 KKQY: Trego FB at
Ness City, 6:00pm &nbsp;KFIX: Hays High FB at Dodge City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Oakley, 6:30pm

Saturday, October 11
 KAYS: Kansas FB at
Texas Tech, 5:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Oklahoma, 6:00pm

Sunday, October 12
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Detroit Lions, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Monday, October 6
 KJLS: Tiger Talk,
9:00am &nbsp;KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB at Jacksonville Jaguars, 6:00pmTuesday, October 7
 KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom,
6:00pmWednesday, October 8
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pmThursday, October 9
 noneFriday, October 10
 KKQY: Trego FB at
Ness City, 6:00pm &nbsp;KFIX: Hays High FB at Dodge City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Oakley, 6:30pmSaturday, October 11
 KAYS: Kansas FB at
Texas Tech, 5:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Oklahoma, 6:00pmSunday, October 12
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Detroit Lions, 6:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Sean Payton had a game ball in hand and stories to tell after he passed his mentor and friend Bill Parcells on the NFL career wins list. The pair of Super Bowl champion coaches caught up recently and shot the breeze, talking about playing tough road games against NFC East teams.

The Denver Broncos provided Payton quite a new tale Sunday.

Bo Nix led the Broncos on three scoring drives on three possessions in the fourth quarter, J.K. Dobbins rushed for a 2-yard score in the period and the Broncos wiped out a 14-point deficit to hand the Philadelphia Eagles their first loss of the season, 21-17.

“You're not going to forget,” Payton said, “just these moments. Ultimately, that's what you do it for. Making memories.”

The Broncos batted down Jalen Hurts' last-gasp pass on the final play of the game to send the Super Bowl champions to just their second loss in their last 22 games.

“We just kind of had this sense that we just needed one drive. Let’s go down the field, one play at a time, let’s put a drive together,” Nix said.

Nix had a few of them in his fourth-quarter rally that helped Payton earn his 173rd win to pass Parcells. Nix completed 9 of 10 passes for 126 yards and threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Evan Engram in the fourth to stun an Eagles team that totally collapsed over the final 15 minutes.

“This is a team that just won the Super Bowl,” Payton said. “So that’s a good win.”

Broncos owner and CEO Greg Penner gave Payton the game ball for the coaching milestone.

The Broncos (3-2) caught a huge break in their rally when the Eagles had a late fourth-down conversion called back on an illegal shift penalty whistled against running back Saquon Barkley. The Eagles (4-1) were instead forced to punt.

Hurts' final heave on second-and-10 from the 29 was knocked down as time expired to send the jubilant Broncos into the locker room with an improbable win. Nix waved his arms in celebration toward dozens of Broncos fans in orange that stood near the visitors tunnel.

Nix threw for 242 yards — a week after he threw for a career-high 326 yards and a pair of touchdowns against the Bengals — and Denver’s formula of run-first offense and a dominant defense came to life in the fourth quarter.

The Broncos totaled just 199 yards and trailed 17-3 at the end of the third before Nix got the offense rolling. Dobbins, who followed his 101 yards rushing against Cincinnati with 79 yards on Sunday, punched in a 2-yard TD run in the fourth to make it 17-10.

The Broncos got the ball back and Nix hit Courtland Sutton for 34 yards on the decisive drive. Nix connected over the middle with Engram for the 11-yard TD.

Payton gambled for the 2-point conversion and the Broncos got it when Nix hit Troy Franklin for an 18-17 lead with 7:36 left in the game.

The play stunned and silenced the Philly crowd — a familiar gut punch to the fan base after the Phillies wasted a three-run lead a night earlier in a playoff loss to the Dodgers.

Yet, these are the Eagles and they weren't going to just easily surrender their 10-game winning streak.

At fourth-and-4 from the Eagles 49, Hurts hit DeVonta Smith on a long reception for what should have been a first down, only for the flag on Barkley to wipe it off the board. Smith had eight catches and 114 yards receiving.

“We've got to get on the same page, and continue to be on the same page,” Smith said.

Hurts threw for 280 yards. He had a 2-yard touchdown pass to Dallas Goedert and a 47-yard TD pass to Barkley in the third quarter for the 17-10 lead.

That was it for the Eagles. Wil Lutz tacked on a 36-yard field goal with 1:11 left for a 21-17 lead.

“You don’t get a chance to play these games that have a ton of upside,” Payton said. “Now don’t get me wrong, there’s downside, but there’s a ton of upside relative to defining what you become. And this is one of them. I think they were confident coming in. I asked them afterwards, ‘Who are you afraid of?'”

Broncos: RB Tyler Badie left with a shoulder injury late in the fourth.

Eagles: G Landon Dickerson suffered an ankle injury and TE Grant Calcaterra suffered an oblique injury.

Broncos: Are on the road Sunday in London against the Jets.

Eagles: Have a short trip on a short week Thursday night at the Giants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759746642186.jpeg" alt="Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)" />
 <figcaption>Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAN GELSTON AP Sports WriterPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Sean Payton had a game ball in hand and stories to tell after he passed his mentor and friend Bill Parcells on the NFL career wins list. The pair of Super Bowl champion coaches caught up recently and shot the breeze, talking about playing tough road games against NFC East teams.The Denver Broncos provided Payton quite a new tale Sunday.Bo Nix led the Broncos on three scoring drives on three possessions in the fourth quarter, J.K. Dobbins rushed for a 2-yard score in the period and the Broncos wiped out a 14-point deficit to hand the Philadelphia Eagles their first loss of the season, 21-17.“You're not going to forget,” Payton said, “just these moments. Ultimately, that's what you do it for. Making memories.”The Broncos batted down Jalen Hurts' last-gasp pass on the final play of the game to send the Super Bowl champions to just their second loss in their last 22 games.“We just kind of had this sense that we just needed one drive. Let’s go down the field, one play at a time, let’s put a drive together,” Nix said.Nix had a few of them in his fourth-quarter rally that helped Payton earn his 173rd win to pass Parcells. Nix completed 9 of 10 passes for 126 yards and threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Evan Engram in the fourth to stun an Eagles team that totally collapsed over the final 15 minutes.“This is a team that just won the Super Bowl,” Payton said. “So that’s a good win.”Broncos owner and CEO Greg Penner gave Payton the game ball for the coaching milestone.The Broncos (3-2) caught a huge break in their rally when the Eagles had a late fourth-down conversion called back on an illegal shift penalty whistled against running back Saquon Barkley. The Eagles (4-1) were instead forced to punt.Hurts' final heave on second-and-10 from the 29 was knocked down as time expired to send the jubilant Broncos into the locker room with an improbable win. Nix waved his arms in celebration toward dozens of Broncos fans in orange that stood near the visitors tunnel.Nix threw for 242 yards — a week after he threw for a career-high 326 yards and a pair of touchdowns against the Bengals — and Denver’s formula of run-first offense and a dominant defense came to life in the fourth quarter.The Broncos totaled just 199 yards and trailed 17-3 at the end of the third before Nix got the offense rolling. Dobbins, who followed his 101 yards rushing against Cincinnati with 79 yards on Sunday, punched in a 2-yard TD run in the fourth to make it 17-10.The Broncos got the ball back and Nix hit Courtland Sutton for 34 yards on the decisive drive. Nix connected over the middle with Engram for the 11-yard TD.Payton gambled for the 2-point conversion and the Broncos got it when Nix hit Troy Franklin for an 18-17 lead with 7:36 left in the game.The play stunned and silenced the Philly crowd — a familiar gut punch to the fan base after the Phillies wasted a three-run lead a night earlier in a playoff loss to the Dodgers.Yet, these are the Eagles and they weren't going to just easily surrender their 10-game winning streak.At fourth-and-4 from the Eagles 49, Hurts hit DeVonta Smith on a long reception for what should have been a first down, only for the flag on Barkley to wipe it off the board. Smith had eight catches and 114 yards receiving.“We've got to get on the same page, and continue to be on the same page,” Smith said.Hurts threw for 280 yards. He had a 2-yard touchdown pass to Dallas Goedert and a 47-yard TD pass to Barkley in the third quarter for the 17-10 lead.That was it for the Eagles. Wil Lutz tacked on a 36-yard field goal with 1:11 left for a 21-17 lead.“You don’t get a chance to play these games that have a ton of upside,” Payton said. “Now don’t get me wrong, there’s downside, but there’s a ton of upside relative to defining what you become. And this is one of them. I think they were confident coming in. I asked them afterwards, ‘Who are you afraid of?'”It sure wasn't the Eagles.InjuriesBroncos: RB Tyler Badie left with a shoulder injury late in the fourth.Eagles: G Landon Dickerson suffered an ankle injury and TE Grant Calcaterra suffered an oblique injury.Up nextBroncos: Are on the road Sunday in London against the Jets.Eagles: Have a short trip on a short week Thursday night at the Giants.

🏈 Broncos rally from 14-point deficit to hand Eagles their first loss of the season

EMPORIA, Kan. - Fort Hays State fell to Emporia State by a score of 5-2 on Sunday afternoon. The Tigers (2-6-1, 0-3-1 MIAA) leveled the match twice in the first half on a pair of goals by Sydney Cotter, but it was not enough as the Hornets (6-3-0, 3-0-0 MIAA) added three more in the second half.

After Emporia State took an early 1-0 lead, FHSU and ESU traded a flurry of goals in the waning minutes before halftime. The Hornets scored in the 5th minute, but FHSU equalized in the 40th minute on a header by Cotter off a corner kick from Megan Wiman. Emporia State regained the lead with just under a minute remaining in the first half, but Cotter quickly responded, scoring just 12 seconds later to level the match once again. Cotter now has six goals on the season to lead the Tigers. FHSU outshot ESU 8-6 in the opening half.

It did not take long for ESU to regain its lead for the third time in the match as Avery Zimmerman provided what turned out to be the game winner in the 48th minute. The Hornets eventually added on goals in the 79th and 83rd minutes to run away with the victory. ESU outshot FHSU 8-1 in the second half and 14-9 for the match.

Jamie Kerkvliet got her first start in goal for FHSU and made six saves. Mackenzi Goen of ESU made four stops between the pipes.

Cotter provided the majority of the offensive attack for FHSU with six of the team's nine shots. Five of her shots were on target. Ella Favot led ESU with four shots and she had one of the team's five goals, all spread among different players.

Fort Hays State will host Central Oklahoma in Hays on Friday, October 10 at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759745993978.png" alt="FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsEMPORIA, Kan. - Fort Hays State fell to Emporia State by a score of 5-2 on Sunday afternoon. The Tigers (2-6-1, 0-3-1 MIAA) leveled the match twice in the first half on a pair of goals by Sydney Cotter, but it was not enough as the Hornets (6-3-0, 3-0-0 MIAA) added three more in the second half.After Emporia State took an early 1-0 lead, FHSU and ESU traded a flurry of goals in the waning minutes before halftime. The Hornets scored in the 5th minute, but FHSU equalized in the 40th minute on a header by Cotter off a corner kick from Megan Wiman. Emporia State regained the lead with just under a minute remaining in the first half, but Cotter quickly responded, scoring just 12 seconds later to level the match once again. Cotter now has six goals on the season to lead the Tigers. FHSU outshot ESU 8-6 in the opening half.It did not take long for ESU to regain its lead for the third time in the match as Avery Zimmerman provided what turned out to be the game winner in the 48th minute. The Hornets eventually added on goals in the 79th and 83rd minutes to run away with the victory. ESU outshot FHSU 8-1 in the second half and 14-9 for the match.Jamie Kerkvliet got her first start in goal for FHSU and made six saves. Mackenzi Goen of ESU made four stops between the pipes.Cotter provided the majority of the offensive attack for FHSU with six of the team's nine shots. Five of her shots were on target. Ella Favot led ESU with four shots and she had one of the team's five goals, all spread among different players.Fort Hays State will host Central Oklahoma in Hays on Friday, October 10 at 7 p.m.

⚽ Cotter scores twice, Tiger women fall to Hornets in Emporia

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Sunday, October 5
 none

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kansas' defense came up with two decisive plays near the goal line, setting up the Jayhawks' go-ahead touchdown with a strip sack and fumble recovery to stop UCF on three consecutive plays from the 1 with less than two minutes remaining to help Kansas beat the Knights 27-20 on Saturday night.

Kansas' Trey Lathan recovered a fumble at the 2 late in the third quarter off a strip sack from Jalen Dye, setting up the go-ahead 2-yard touchdown run from Leshon Williams. Lathan then tackled Cam Fancher on fourth-and-goal from the 1 with 1:47 to secure the victory.

“You are expecting to lose in that situation,” Lathan said. “But when you come out with a W, it’s a great feeling.”

Kansas (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) lost last week’s game to Cincinnati after a goal line battle, ending with a Bearcats' 2-yard touchdown run with 30 seconds remaining.

UCF drove to the Kansas 22 after getting the ball back, but four straight incompletions that included a pass breakup in the end zone by Austin Alexander, ended the Knights' final threat.

Kansas erased an early 14-0 lead from UCF (3-2, 0-2) after Myles Montgomery and the Knights ran all over the Jayhawks in the first half.

Jalon Daniels led the charge for Kansas, throwing for 235 yards on 18-for-26 passing. Williams rushed for 58 yards and three touchdowns for the Jayhawks.

“These guys are growing,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I think this can be a big one for them to gain some confidence.”

Montgomery rushed for 99 of his 110 yards in the first half, scoring two touchdowns to stake the Knights to an early lead.

UCF’s Tayven Jackson finished with 97 yards on 14-for-23 passing. He left the game after his turnover and came out of the locker room with his left arm in a sling. Coach Scott Frost said X-rays on his shoulder were negative.

Fancher, who started UCF’s opening game against Jacksonville State before leaving with an injury, completed 8 of 14 passes for 79 yards.

The Knights could not find answers in the second half and lost for the second straight game.

“I think we're one of the most talented teams in the Big 12, we've just got to finish,” UCF receiver Duane Thomas Jr. said. “We have to play a complete football game. We can't go out the first two quarters and lay down the next two.”

Part of the shift in the game came from Kansas linebacker Bangally Kamara, who was coming off suspension in the first half after a second-half targeting penalty last week against Cincinnati. Kamara finished with four tackles and provided a boost for the Jayhawks' defense.

Both teams stayed on the field after pregame warmups for a moment of silence to recognize UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark. Clark passed away Sept. 21. He joined UCF's staff after five years as the head coach at Appalachian State.

Several players for Kansas were fighting through injury, including Williams. The biggest was to kicker Laith Marjan, who made two field goals. His 41-yarder in the third quarter just made it over the crossbar, clipping it before going through.

Leipold admitted Marjan was probably a bit fatigued after he kicked the ensuing kickoff out of bounds following the short field goal.

Kansas: The Jayhawks have been known for their offense throughout the season, but their defense stepped up in a big way to stymie the Knights.

UCF: The Knights will again face quarterback questions after Jackson left the game with an injury. Jackson left last week's game with a shoulder injury. Backup quarterback Jacurri Brown also missed the game with a shoulder injury.

Kansas travels to face No. 11 Texas Tech on Saturday.

UCF hits the road to face Cincinnati on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759633370385.png" alt="Photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Kansas' defense came up with two decisive plays near the goal line, setting up the Jayhawks' go-ahead touchdown with a strip sack and fumble recovery to stop UCF on three consecutive plays from the 1 with less than two minutes remaining to help Kansas beat the Knights 27-20 on Saturday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">KANSAS HOLDS. <a href="https://t.co/VMCa14Tca4">pic.twitter.com/VMCa14Tca4</a>&mdash; Kansas Football (@KU_Football) <a href="https://twitter.com/KU_Football/status/1974668305681301514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas' Trey Lathan recovered a fumble at the 2 late in the third quarter off a strip sack from Jalen Dye, setting up the go-ahead 2-yard touchdown run from Leshon Williams. Lathan then tackled Cam Fancher on fourth-and-goal from the 1 with 1:47 to secure the victory.“You are expecting to lose in that situation,” Lathan said. “But when you come out with a W, it’s a great feeling.”Kansas (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) lost last week’s game to Cincinnati after a goal line battle, ending with a Bearcats' 2-yard touchdown run with 30 seconds remaining.UCF drove to the Kansas 22 after getting the ball back, but four straight incompletions that included a pass breakup in the end zone by Austin Alexander, ended the Knights' final threat.Kansas erased an early 14-0 lead from UCF (3-2, 0-2) after Myles Montgomery and the Knights ran all over the Jayhawks in the first half.Jalon Daniels led the charge for Kansas, throwing for 235 yards on 18-for-26 passing. Williams rushed for 58 yards and three touchdowns for the Jayhawks.“These guys are growing,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “I think this can be a big one for them to gain some confidence.”Montgomery rushed for 99 of his 110 yards in the first half, scoring two touchdowns to stake the Knights to an early lead.UCF’s Tayven Jackson finished with 97 yards on 14-for-23 passing. He left the game after his turnover and came out of the locker room with his left arm in a sling. Coach Scott Frost said X-rays on his shoulder were negative.Fancher, who started UCF’s opening game against Jacksonville State before leaving with an injury, completed 8 of 14 passes for 79 yards.The Knights could not find answers in the second half and lost for the second straight game.“I think we're one of the most talented teams in the Big 12, we've just got to finish,” UCF receiver Duane Thomas Jr. said. “We have to play a complete football game. We can't go out the first two quarters and lay down the next two.”<h2>Off Suspension</h2>Part of the shift in the game came from Kansas linebacker Bangally Kamara, who was coming off suspension in the first half after a second-half targeting penalty last week against Cincinnati. Kamara finished with four tackles and provided a boost for the Jayhawks' defense.<h2>Memorializing Coach Clark</h2>Both teams stayed on the field after pregame warmups for a moment of silence to recognize UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark. Clark passed away Sept. 21. He joined UCF's staff after five years as the head coach at Appalachian State.<h2>Fighting through injury</h2>Several players for Kansas were fighting through injury, including Williams. The biggest was to kicker Laith Marjan, who made two field goals. His 41-yarder in the third quarter just made it over the crossbar, clipping it before going through.Leipold admitted Marjan was probably a bit fatigued after he kicked the ensuing kickoff out of bounds following the short field goal.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas: The Jayhawks have been known for their offense throughout the season, but their defense stepped up in a big way to stymie the Knights.UCF: The Knights will again face quarterback questions after Jackson left the game with an injury. Jackson left last week's game with a shoulder injury. Backup quarterback Jacurri Brown also missed the game with a shoulder injury.<h2>Up Next</h2>Kansas travels to face No. 11 Texas Tech on Saturday.UCF hits the road to face Cincinnati on Saturday.

🏈 KU holds UCF scoreless in the 2nd half to escape with a win

JOPLIN, Mo. – Josh Clark had his first career 100-yard rushing game, Caleb Heavner accounted for three touchdowns and Fort Hays State extended its winning streak in Joplin to seven games with a 28-21 win over Missouri Southern State Saturday afternoon at Fred G. Hughes Stadium. The Tigers have now won 11 of their last 12 against the Lions.

Fort Hays State (4-2, 3-1 MIAA) rushed for a season-high 254 yards led by Clark's career-best 116. Quarterback Caleb Heavner added 94 on the ground and rushed for two touchdowns.

Heavner's 12-yard touchdown run on the Tigers first possession gave them the early lead. The Lions (2-3, 0-3 MIAA) answered with a 70-yard touchdown pass on their second possession to tie the game 7-7. The Tigers took the lead back for good early in the second quarter when Zane Hall connected on a 32-yard field goal. Later in the quarter, Heavner found Cale Cormaney for a 16-yard touchdown pass to put the Tigers up 17-7. For a second-straight game, the Tigers allowed a touchdown pass on the final play of the first half, this time a 34-yard pass from freshman quarterback TIllman Martin to Isaiah Padello to pull MSSU within 17-14 at halftime.

John Johnson forced a fumble on the first play of the third quarter which set up a 39-yard field goal by Hall, pushing the Tiger lead to 20-14. The Tiger defense forced punts on the next two Lions possessions and eventually extended their lead to 28-14 early in the fourth quarter on a goal line plunge by Heavner. The scoring play was set up by a 58-yard rush by Clark down to the two yard line.

An interception by Michael Chavez on MSSU's first drive of the fourth quarter helped the Tigers chew up more time. The Lions eventually scored a touchdown with a 4th-down, goal line plunge by Martin with 1:11 remaining in the game. The Tigers secured a pooch kick, but had to punt with 19 seconds remaining in the game. The Lions were called for a penalty on the punt which gave the Tigers a first down which allowed them to run out the clock.

In addition to his big game running the ball, Heavner threw for 125 yards and a touchdown. Keyshawn Dooley led the Tigers with 31 receiving yards..

Johnson led the Tiger defense with 10 tackles, the forced fumble which gave him a sack, and a pass breakup. Gavin Meyers added nine tackles, while Chavez also had eight tackles and a sack that created a fumble that set up the Cormaney touchdown in the second quarter.

Freshman Tillman Martin threw for 322 yards for MSSU but the Lions produced just 65 rushing yards.&nbsp;

The Tigers return home to play host to 2024 MIAA champion Central Oklahoma on Saturday (Oct. 11) at 7 p.m. The Bronchos entered Saturday 2-2 overall and 2-1 in the MIAA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759640821965.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostJOPLIN, Mo. – Josh Clark had his first career 100-yard rushing game, Caleb Heavner accounted for three touchdowns and Fort Hays State extended its winning streak in Joplin to seven games with a 28-21 win over Missouri Southern State Saturday afternoon at Fred G. Hughes Stadium. The Tigers have now won 11 of their last 12 against the Lions.<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/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2182527471&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/chris-brown-postgame-v-1" title="Chris Brown Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State (4-2, 3-1 MIAA) rushed for a season-high 254 yards led by Clark's career-best 116. Quarterback Caleb Heavner added 94 on the ground and rushed for two touchdowns.Heavner's 12-yard touchdown run on the Tigers first possession gave them the early lead. The Lions (2-3, 0-3 MIAA) answered with a 70-yard touchdown pass on their second possession to tie the game 7-7. The Tigers took the lead back for good early in the second quarter when Zane Hall connected on a 32-yard field goal. Later in the quarter, Heavner found Cale Cormaney for a 16-yard touchdown pass to put the Tigers up 17-7. For a second-straight game, the Tigers allowed a touchdown pass on the final play of the first half, this time a 34-yard pass from freshman quarterback TIllman Martin to Isaiah Padello to pull MSSU within 17-14 at halftime.<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/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2182527639&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/caleb-heavner-interview-10-3" title="Caleb Heavner Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Caleb Heavner Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)</a></div></div>John Johnson forced a fumble on the first play of the third quarter which set up a 39-yard field goal by Hall, pushing the Tiger lead to 20-14. The Tiger defense forced punts on the next two Lions possessions and eventually extended their lead to 28-14 early in the fourth quarter on a goal line plunge by Heavner. The scoring play was set up by a 58-yard rush by Clark down to the two yard line.<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/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2182527927&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/michael-chavez-interview-10-4" title="Michael Chavez Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Michael Chavez Postgame at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)</a></div></div>An interception by Michael Chavez on MSSU's first drive of the fourth quarter helped the Tigers chew up more time. The Lions eventually scored a touchdown with a 4th-down, goal line plunge by Martin with 1:11 remaining in the game. The Tigers secured a pooch kick, but had to punt with 19 seconds remaining in the game. The Lions were called for a penalty on the punt which gave the Tigers a first down which allowed them to run out the clock.In addition to his big game running the ball, Heavner threw for 125 yards and a touchdown. Keyshawn Dooley led the Tigers with 31 receiving yards..Johnson led the Tiger defense with 10 tackles, the forced fumble which gave him a sack, and a pass breakup. Gavin Meyers added nine tackles, while Chavez also had eight tackles and a sack that created a fumble that set up the Cormaney touchdown in the second 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/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2182527271&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-football-vs-mo-southern" title="Fort Hays State FB Highlights at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State FB Highlights at Missouri Southern (Oct. 4, 2025)</a></div></div>Freshman Tillman Martin threw for 322 yards for MSSU but the Lions produced just 65 rushing yards.&nbsp;Up nextThe Tigers return home to play host to 2024 MIAA champion Central Oklahoma on Saturday (Oct. 11) at 7 p.m. The Bronchos entered Saturday 2-2 overall and 2-1 in the MIAA.

🏈 Tigers continue winning ways in Joplin, down Lions

BETHANY, Okla. — Fort Hays State secured a 2-1 come-from-behind victory at Southern Nazarene on Saturday. The No. 13 ranked Tigers improved to 7-0-2 overall and 3-0 in the GAC with the win. The Crimson Storm went to 4-3-2 overall and 2-1-1 in GAC play.

Southern Nazarene's only goal came in the 29th minute on a penalty kick. However, the Tigers were able to erase the misfortune about four minutes later when Tadhg Walsh leveled the match off assists from Elias Ovelar Semeniuk and Joseph Street. The Tigers were awarded a penalty kick in the 43rd minute, which Ovelar Semeniuk converted to put the Tigers on top. It was his eighth goal of the season. The Tigers dominated the shot count in the first half 10-3.

Fort Hays State went on to win the overall shot battle for the game 17-8. Payton Roehrich had to make two second-half saves to keep the Tigers on top. The Tigers had eight corner kick opportunities compared to none for the Crimson Storm. The match saw 11 cards issued, which included a red on the SNU bench, but FHSU had seven yellows throughout the match.

Fort Hays State returns home for its next three matches. Next up is Harding University on Thursday, October 9 at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759639786805.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsBETHANY, Okla. — Fort Hays State secured a 2-1 come-from-behind victory at Southern Nazarene on Saturday. The No. 13 ranked Tigers improved to 7-0-2 overall and 3-0 in the GAC with the win. The Crimson Storm went to 4-3-2 overall and 2-1-1 in GAC play.Southern Nazarene's only goal came in the 29th minute on a penalty kick. However, the Tigers were able to erase the misfortune about four minutes later when Tadhg Walsh leveled the match off assists from Elias Ovelar Semeniuk and Joseph Street. The Tigers were awarded a penalty kick in the 43rd minute, which Ovelar Semeniuk converted to put the Tigers on top. It was his eighth goal of the season. The Tigers dominated the shot count in the first half 10-3.Fort Hays State went on to win the overall shot battle for the game 17-8. Payton Roehrich had to make two second-half saves to keep the Tigers on top. The Tigers had eight corner kick opportunities compared to none for the Crimson Storm. The match saw 11 cards issued, which included a red on the SNU bench, but FHSU had seven yellows throughout the match.Fort Hays State returns home for its next three matches. Next up is Harding University on Thursday, October 9 at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

⚽ No. 13 Tigers men get past Crimson Storm in Oklahoma

WACO, Texas (AP) — Connor Hawkins kicked a 53-yard field goal with 31 seconds left after Jacob Redding's go-ahead 66-yard interception return for a touchdown as Baylor rallied twice in the fourth quarter for a 35-34 victory over Kansas State on Saturday.

Hawkins matched the longest kick of his career after Luis Rodriguez had put the Wildcats in front with a 22-yard field goal with 1:48 remaining. Kansas State (2-4, 1-2 Big 12) had to settle for the kick after having a first down at the Baylor 2-yard line.

Rodriguez had a chance for a game-winner from 56 yards, but 6-foot-4 defensive end Cooper Lanz blocked it with 2 seconds to go. The Bears (4-2, 2-1) held on two weeks after losing to Arizona State on a game-ending field goal in their previous home game.

“It’s a roller coaster for sure, an emotional roller coaster,” Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson said. “I remember sitting in here a couple of weeks ago and saying that I know one thing for sure, we’re going to fight to the very end. Because of that, we put ourselves in a position to win.”

Michael Trigg had career highs with eight catches for 155 yards and sparked Baylor's rally from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter with a 42-yard grab a play before making a spectacular one-handed catch while getting one foot down on the sideline, gaining another 29 yards.

Robertson's 11-yard scoring pass to Bryson Washington came on the next play, and Robertson’s 2-point conversion run cut Baylor's deficit to 31-25.

Avery Johnson, who threw for 339 yards and two TDs and ran for a score, had kept a potential clock-killing drive alive with two third-down conversions but he threw into traffic on first down in Baylor territory with the six-point lead.

Redding picked off the pass, ran left up the sideline and cut back inside with the speedy Johnson pursuing to finish off the score untouched. Hawkins' PAT kick put Baylor ahead 32-31 with less than five minutes to go.

“I’d be lying if I said a couple of years ago that I’d be in this position,” Redding said. “I was running, I was like, ‘I can’t believe this is happening.’ And then I scored and I was like, ‘No flags?’ This is a dream come true.”

Johnson's 12-yard scoring pass to Jayce Brown broke a 17-17 halftime tie, and the Wildcats went up two touchdowns on Dylan Edwards' 5-yard run late in the third quarter.

“We did things well enough to win, but we didn’t earn the win,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “That’s why we’re walking out of here with a one-point loss and a lot of woulda, shoulda, couldas.”

Kansas State: It's the third time this season the Wildcats have led or been tied in the fourth quarter of a loss. They've had a one-score margin a nation-leading five times in six games. Three of the losses are by three points or fewer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759614275873.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>WACO, Texas (AP) — Connor Hawkins kicked a 53-yard field goal with 31 seconds left after Jacob Redding's go-ahead 66-yard interception return for a touchdown as Baylor rallied twice in the fourth quarter for a 35-34 victory over Kansas State on Saturday.Hawkins matched the longest kick of his career after Luis Rodriguez had put the Wildcats in front with a 22-yard field goal with 1:48 remaining. Kansas State (2-4, 1-2 Big 12) had to settle for the kick after having a first down at the Baylor 2-yard line.Rodriguez had a chance for a game-winner from 56 yards, but 6-foot-4 defensive end Cooper Lanz blocked it with 2 seconds to go. The Bears (4-2, 2-1) held on two weeks after losing to Arizona State on a game-ending field goal in their previous home game.“It’s a roller coaster for sure, an emotional roller coaster,” Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson said. “I remember sitting in here a couple of weeks ago and saying that I know one thing for sure, we’re going to fight to the very end. Because of that, we put ourselves in a position to win.”Michael Trigg had career highs with eight catches for 155 yards and sparked Baylor's rally from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter with a 42-yard grab a play before making a spectacular one-handed catch while getting one foot down on the sideline, gaining another 29 yards.Robertson's 11-yard scoring pass to Bryson Washington came on the next play, and Robertson’s 2-point conversion run cut Baylor's deficit to 31-25.Avery Johnson, who threw for 339 yards and two TDs and ran for a score, had kept a potential clock-killing drive alive with two third-down conversions but he threw into traffic on first down in Baylor territory with the six-point lead.Redding picked off the pass, ran left up the sideline and cut back inside with the speedy Johnson pursuing to finish off the score untouched. Hawkins' PAT kick put Baylor ahead 32-31 with less than five minutes to go.“I’d be lying if I said a couple of years ago that I’d be in this position,” Redding said. “I was running, I was like, ‘I can’t believe this is happening.’ And then I scored and I was like, ‘No flags?’ This is a dream come true.”Johnson's 12-yard scoring pass to Jayce Brown broke a 17-17 halftime tie, and the Wildcats went up two touchdowns on Dylan Edwards' 5-yard run late in the third quarter.“We did things well enough to win, but we didn’t earn the win,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “That’s why we’re walking out of here with a one-point loss and a lot of woulda, shoulda, couldas.”<h2>The takeaway</h2>Kansas State: It's the third time this season the Wildcats have led or been tied in the fourth quarter of a loss. They've had a one-score margin a nation-leading five times in six games. Three of the losses are by three points or fewer.Baylor: Robertson had two TD tosses, ending his streak of consecutive games with at least three scoring passes at five. It was the longest since Kyler Murray had eight in a row with Oklahoma in 2018. His 345 yards passing were almost right on his nation-leading average.<h2>Toasty fall Saturday</h2>The temperature approach 90 degrees late in the game on the first Saturday in October in Texas. It was on Klieman's mind. “We played a lot of guys because we had guys injured. Plus, it was hot,” the coach said.<h2>Coulda been more</h2>Besides the one-handed grab, Trigg had a leaping catch over the middle in the first half on a drive that appeared to end with him making another athletic catch in the back of the end zone. It was overturned on review, apparently because he didn't have full control. “We knew we had a mismatch nightmare on the kid,” Klieman said.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas State: TCU at home next Saturday.Baylor: Off next week, then at TCU on Oct. 18.