GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Quarterback Patrick Mahomes spent some time before Saturday's preseason game running up and down the Kansas City Chiefs sideline, yelling, jumping and psyching himself up for his first game action since last season's Super Bowl.

He was ready — for all 48 seconds of it.

Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champ entering his ninth season, took advantage of a short field after the Arizona Cardinals fumbled the opening kickoff,&nbsp;hitting Jason Brownlee for a 1-yard touchdown&nbsp;and an early 7-0 lead less than one minute into the game.

Arizona rallied for a 20-17 win over Kansas City in the preseason opener for both teams.

Mahomes said coach Andy Reid told him before the game that he'd play just one series, but it was an even shorter night than he imagined.

“One series turned into one throw,” Mahomes said, grinning.

The TD pass was Mahomes' only completion of the game, ending a brief, effective outing. Backup Gardner Minshew took over on the next series and ran for a 2-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Harrison Butker made a 58-yard field goal.

Mahomes' final line: 1-for-1 passing for 1 yard and one touchdown. The three-time defending AFC champions were playing for the first time&nbsp;since losing last season's Super Bowl 40-22&nbsp;to the Philadelphia Eagles.

“There were some good things,” Reid said. “I thought the (starters) played well when they were in, they were sharp. After that, we were too sloppy. Too many penalties, going backward.”

While Kansas City got off to a good start, Arizona did not.

The Cardinals fumbled their first two kickoff returns, though they recovered the second one. Kyler Murray — playing in his first preseason game since 2021 — was intercepted on the offense's opening drive on a pass intended for second-year receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.

Murray's second drive was hindered when tight end Tip Reiman was called for a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness. The miscue was part of the reason the Cardinals had to settle for a 33-yard field goal by Chad Ryland.

Murray chose to remain positive about the outing, saying that even with the mistakes, it was good to get on the field and play at game speed.

“You can’t replicate it in practice, moving around with the speed that you’re moving, going left to right, lateral, bodies moving. I had fun. I had a lot of fun out there,” Murray said.

Murray played two drives, completing 7 of 8 passes for 96 yards and the interception. Tight end Trey McBride caught one pass for 21 yards and Harrison had a catch for 15 yards.

The Cardinals trailed 14-3 early but Emari Demercado caught a 43-yard touchdown pass to cut the margin to 14-10. Xavier Weaver caught a 1-yard touchdown pass that gave the Cardinals a 17-14 lead at halftime.

Both touchdowns were thrown by Arizona's new backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who completed 5 of 8 passes for 81 yards. The Cardinals outgained the Chiefs 355 yards to 249.

Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon echoed Murray's positive outlook, even after the early mistakes.

“The team — not just Kyler — understood why we're doing what we're doing tonight,” Gannon said. "They were excited to get under the lights. That's the AFC champs coming in here. Andy Reid — Hall of Fame coach. They were excited to play a really good team, get lathered up and bang a little on someone other than themselves.

“It was good to see our guys ready to roll.”

The Cardinals — who are trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021 — finished last season with an 8-9 record, which was a four-win improvement over the previous season. Arizona revamped its defensive front during the offseason, adding Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell.

Chiefs: Cornerback Jaylen Watson (concussion protocol) left the game in the first half. Safety Deon Bush (Achilles tendon) was carted off the field in the second quarter.

Cardinals: Gannon said postgame that offensive lineman Christian Jones had a knee injury.

Chiefs: visit the Seahawks on Friday, Aug. 15.

Cardinals: visit the Broncos on Saturday, Aug. 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754853453662.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) yells prior to an NFL preseason football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Glendale. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) yells prior to an NFL preseason football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Glendale. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)</figcaption>
 </figure>GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Quarterback Patrick Mahomes spent some time before Saturday's preseason game running up and down the Kansas City Chiefs sideline, yelling, jumping and psyching himself up for his first game action since last season's Super Bowl.He was ready — for all 48 seconds of it.Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champ entering his ninth season, took advantage of a short field after the Arizona Cardinals fumbled the opening kickoff,&nbsp;hitting Jason Brownlee for a 1-yard touchdown&nbsp;and an early 7-0 lead less than one minute into the game.Arizona rallied for a 20-17 win over Kansas City in the preseason opener for both teams.Mahomes said coach Andy Reid told him before the game that he'd play just one series, but it was an even shorter night than he imagined.“One series turned into one throw,” Mahomes said, grinning.The TD pass was Mahomes' only completion of the game, ending a brief, effective outing. Backup Gardner Minshew took over on the next series and ran for a 2-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Harrison Butker made a 58-yard field goal.Mahomes' final line: 1-for-1 passing for 1 yard and one touchdown. The three-time defending AFC champions were playing for the first time&nbsp;since losing last season's Super Bowl 40-22&nbsp;to the Philadelphia Eagles.“There were some good things,” Reid said. “I thought the (starters) played well when they were in, they were sharp. After that, we were too sloppy. Too many penalties, going backward.”While Kansas City got off to a good start, Arizona did not.The Cardinals fumbled their first two kickoff returns, though they recovered the second one. Kyler Murray — playing in his first preseason game since 2021 — was intercepted on the offense's opening drive on a pass intended for second-year receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.Murray's second drive was hindered when tight end Tip Reiman was called for a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness. The miscue was part of the reason the Cardinals had to settle for a 33-yard field goal by Chad Ryland.Murray chose to remain positive about the outing, saying that even with the mistakes, it was good to get on the field and play at game speed.“You can’t replicate it in practice, moving around with the speed that you’re moving, going left to right, lateral, bodies moving. I had fun. I had a lot of fun out there,” Murray said.Murray played two drives, completing 7 of 8 passes for 96 yards and the interception. Tight end Trey McBride caught one pass for 21 yards and Harrison had a catch for 15 yards.The Cardinals trailed 14-3 early but Emari Demercado caught a 43-yard touchdown pass to cut the margin to 14-10. Xavier Weaver caught a 1-yard touchdown pass that gave the Cardinals a 17-14 lead at halftime.Both touchdowns were thrown by Arizona's new backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who completed 5 of 8 passes for 81 yards. The Cardinals outgained the Chiefs 355 yards to 249.Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon echoed Murray's positive outlook, even after the early mistakes.“The team — not just Kyler — understood why we're doing what we're doing tonight,” Gannon said. "They were excited to get under the lights. That's the AFC champs coming in here. Andy Reid — Hall of Fame coach. They were excited to play a really good team, get lathered up and bang a little on someone other than themselves.“It was good to see our guys ready to roll.”The Cardinals — who are trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021 — finished last season with an 8-9 record, which was a four-win improvement over the previous season. Arizona revamped its defensive front during the offseason, adding Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell.<h2>Injuries</h2>Chiefs: Cornerback Jaylen Watson (concussion protocol) left the game in the first half. Safety Deon Bush (Achilles tendon) was carted off the field in the second quarter.Cardinals: Gannon said postgame that offensive lineman Christian Jones had a knee injury.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: visit the Seahawks on Friday, Aug. 15.Cardinals: visit the Broncos on Saturday, Aug. 16.

One pass, one TD: Mahomes, Chiefs get off to good start in 20-17 preseason loss to Cardinals

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Noah Cameron and four relievers combined on an eight-hitter, Mikel Garcia had two hits and an RBI, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-0 on Saturday night.

Cameron (6-5) pitched 5 2/3 innings, giving up six hits and striking out four. Carlos Estévez struck out two in the ninth for his 29th save.

The Twins left 10 men on base and were 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position.

Garcia broke the scoreless tie in the third with an RBI single, and the Royals added an insurance run in the ninth on an RBI single from Jonathan India.

Twins starting pitcher Bailey Ober (4-7) pitched six innings, giving up four hits and allowing one run.

Second baseman Adam Frazier scored on India's hit in the ninth, his 30th run of the season.

Twins catcher Matt Jeffers extended his hitting streak to 12 games. He went 3 for 4, with one strikeout.

Ryan Bergert (1-1) will start for the Royals in the final game of the series against the Twins tomorrow afternoon. The Twins have not yet announced their starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754853282166.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Noah Cameron throws to the Minnesota Twins in the third inning of a baseball game Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Noah Cameron throws to the Minnesota Twins in the third inning of a baseball game Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Noah Cameron and four relievers combined on an eight-hitter, Mikel Garcia had two hits and an RBI, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-0 on Saturday night.Cameron (6-5) pitched 5 2/3 innings, giving up six hits and striking out four. Carlos Estévez struck out two in the ninth for his 29th save.The Twins left 10 men on base and were 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position.Garcia broke the scoreless tie in the third with an RBI single, and the Royals added an insurance run in the ninth on an RBI single from Jonathan India.Twins starting pitcher Bailey Ober (4-7) pitched six innings, giving up four hits and allowing one run.<h2>Key moment</h2>Second baseman Adam Frazier scored on India's hit in the ninth, his 30th run of the season.<h2>Key stat</h2>Twins catcher Matt Jeffers extended his hitting streak to 12 games. He went 3 for 4, with one strikeout.<h2>Up next</h2>Ryan Bergert (1-1) will start for the Royals in the final game of the series against the Twins tomorrow afternoon. The Twins have not yet announced their starter.

Royals beat Twins 2-0 as Cameron and relievers combine on eight-hitter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Jacksonville’s Cam Little made a 70-yard field goal to end the first half against Pittsburgh on Saturday night, a kick that would have broken the NFL record had it happened during the regular season. Little and the Jaguars celebrated widely as the half ended with the Steelers leading 14-9. Rookie sensation Travis Hunter was one of the first to greet him on the field, body-bumped each other in midair. Baltimore’s Justin Tucker holds the NFL mark, having made a 66-yarder at Detroit in 2021.

Crystal Palace has won the Community Shield by beating Premier League champion Liverpool in a penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium. The curtain-raiser for the English top-flight season ended 2-2 after 90 minutes after FA Cup winner Palace twice came back to level against Liverpool before winning the shootout 3-2. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson saved two penalties and Mohamed Salah fired over with another, while Justin Devenny converted the winning spot kick into the top corner.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Frederick Richard is challenging men’s gymnastics norms with his wardrobe. The 21-year-old Olympic bronze medalist swapped traditional stirrup pants for shorts over compression leggings at the U.S. Championships. He accepts a three-tenths deduction each day for breaking uniform rules, believing it’s worth it to make the sport more appealing. Richard’s goal is to inspire young boys by making gymnastics more accessible. He debuted his new look at Winter Cup in February and refined it for nationals. While the clothing violates the rules, Richard is determined to push boundaries and hopes for more flexibility in uniform rules.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Scottie Scheffler will have a fill-in caddie for the final round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship. His regular looper Ted Scott has a family emergency in Louisiana and had to leave for home Saturday night. Scheffler has turned to a familiar face in Brad Payne. Payne is a tour chaplain to several players as president of the College Golf Fellowship. He also was on Scheffler's bag in the third round of the 2024 PGA Championship so Scott could attend his daughter's high school graduation. The PGA Tour did not say what private matter led Scott to leave for home.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — CeeDee Lamb took a big hit and committed a penalty in the Dallas Cowboys’ preseason opener even though the star receiver wasn’t in uniform. A sprinting official ran straight into Lamb’s back on the sideline during the second quarter of the Cowboys’ game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday night, resulting in a 15-yard penalty to Dallas for making contact with an official. Dressed in street clothes, Lamb was watching Joe Milton’s deep pass to Jonathan Mingo when he wandered too far into the white paint on the sideline. The official didn't see him and knocked him down.

CAIRO (AP) — Mohamed Salah is questioning UEFA’s “farewell” to former Palestinian soccer player Suleiman Obeid who was reportedly shot and killed by Israeli forces while awaiting aid in Gaza. Salah asks on the social network X, “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” in response to a post from UEFA saying, “Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the ‘Palestinian Pele.’ A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.” The Palestine Football Association says the 41-year-old Obeid was fatally shot by Israeli forces while he was waiting among crowds for aid near a distribution site in southern Gaza.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit his 40th home run of the season Saturday night in the fifth inning of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ game against the Toronto Blue Jays. The two-way Japanese star reached 40 homes for the fourth time in his career, after winning MVP awards in each of the previous three years he did it. Ohtani hit a solo shot 417 feet to center off starter Chris Bassitt to give the Dodgers a three-run lead.

SEATTLE (AP) — Cal Raleigh launched his major league-leading 44th home run, Julio Rodríguez went deep twice and the surging Seattle Mariners defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 7-4 after retiring Ichiro Suzuki’s No. 51 jersey. Seattle extended its win streak to six, the longest active run in the American League, and moved within a half-game of Houston atop the AL West. After hitting the go-ahead homer in the eighth inning Friday night, Raleigh delivered another three-run shot Saturday to put Seattle up 5-1 in the third. Rodríguez connected on the next pitch from starter Joe Boyle, who lasted 3 1/3 innings. Rodríguez also hit a two-run homer in the first, a 436-foot drive, and has 23 home runs this season.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — J.J. McCarthy's return to the Minnesota Vikings was short but solid. The quarterback, who missed his rookie season due to a knee injury, led a scoring drive in a 20-10 victory over the Houston Texans on Saturday. He completed 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards, helping set up a 48-yard field goal. This performance came nearly a year after his injury in last year's preseason opener. With Sam Darnold now with the Seattle Seahawks, head coach Kevin O’Connell has handed the offense to McCarthy. The home crowd gave him a warm welcome as he took the field.

NEW YORK (AP) — Mariano Rivera has torn his Achilles while chasing a flyball at the New York Yankees' Old-Timers’ Day game. His agent, Fern Cuza, says the 55-year-old closer, baseball's career leader in saves, will have surgery within a week. Rivera had singled off former teammate Andy Pettitte before the injury occurred during an at-bat by Willie Randolph. The Yankees brought back the Old-Timers' Day game for the first time since 2019. Rivera, a Hall of Famer, was playing in the event for the second time. He became the first unanimous pick for the Hall of Fame in 2019 after helping the Yankees win five World Series titles.

INTERLEAGUEFinal Philadelphia 9 Texas 1Final L.A. Dodgers 5 Toronto 1Final Boston 10 San Diego 2

AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Baltimore 3 Athletics 2Final Detroit 6 L.A. Angels 5FinalHouston5N.Y. Yankees3FinalCleveland9Chicago White Sox5FinalMinnesota9Kansas City4FinalSeattle3Tampa Bay2

NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 3 Cincinnati 2Final Miami 5 Atlanta 1Final Milwaukee 3 N.Y. Mets 2Final St. Louis 5 Chicago Cubs 0Final Arizona 6 Colorado 1Final San Francisco 5 Washington 0

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASONFinal Cleveland 30 Carolina 10&nbsp;Final Detroit 17 Atlanta 10Final New England 48 Washington 18

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739459822020.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Jacksonville’s Cam Little made a 70-yard field goal to end the first half against Pittsburgh on Saturday night, a kick that would have broken the NFL record had it happened during the regular season. Little and the Jaguars celebrated widely as the half ended with the Steelers leading 14-9. Rookie sensation Travis Hunter was one of the first to greet him on the field, body-bumped each other in midair. Baltimore’s Justin Tucker holds the NFL mark, having made a 66-yarder at Detroit in 2021.Crystal Palace has won the Community Shield by beating Premier League champion Liverpool in a penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium. The curtain-raiser for the English top-flight season ended 2-2 after 90 minutes after FA Cup winner Palace twice came back to level against Liverpool before winning the shootout 3-2. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson saved two penalties and Mohamed Salah fired over with another, while Justin Devenny converted the winning spot kick into the top corner.NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Frederick Richard is challenging men’s gymnastics norms with his wardrobe. The 21-year-old Olympic bronze medalist swapped traditional stirrup pants for shorts over compression leggings at the U.S. Championships. He accepts a three-tenths deduction each day for breaking uniform rules, believing it’s worth it to make the sport more appealing. Richard’s goal is to inspire young boys by making gymnastics more accessible. He debuted his new look at Winter Cup in February and refined it for nationals. While the clothing violates the rules, Richard is determined to push boundaries and hopes for more flexibility in uniform rules.MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Scottie Scheffler will have a fill-in caddie for the final round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship. His regular looper Ted Scott has a family emergency in Louisiana and had to leave for home Saturday night. Scheffler has turned to a familiar face in Brad Payne. Payne is a tour chaplain to several players as president of the College Golf Fellowship. He also was on Scheffler's bag in the third round of the 2024 PGA Championship so Scott could attend his daughter's high school graduation. The PGA Tour did not say what private matter led Scott to leave for home.INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — CeeDee Lamb took a big hit and committed a penalty in the Dallas Cowboys’ preseason opener even though the star receiver wasn’t in uniform. A sprinting official ran straight into Lamb’s back on the sideline during the second quarter of the Cowboys’ game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday night, resulting in a 15-yard penalty to Dallas for making contact with an official. Dressed in street clothes, Lamb was watching Joe Milton’s deep pass to Jonathan Mingo when he wandered too far into the white paint on the sideline. The official didn't see him and knocked him down.CAIRO (AP) — Mohamed Salah is questioning UEFA’s “farewell” to former Palestinian soccer player Suleiman Obeid who was reportedly shot and killed by Israeli forces while awaiting aid in Gaza. Salah asks on the social network X, “Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?” in response to a post from UEFA saying, “Farewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the ‘Palestinian Pele.’ A talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.” The Palestine Football Association says the 41-year-old Obeid was fatally shot by Israeli forces while he was waiting among crowds for aid near a distribution site in southern Gaza.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit his 40th home run of the season Saturday night in the fifth inning of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ game against the Toronto Blue Jays. The two-way Japanese star reached 40 homes for the fourth time in his career, after winning MVP awards in each of the previous three years he did it. Ohtani hit a solo shot 417 feet to center off starter Chris Bassitt to give the Dodgers a three-run lead.SEATTLE (AP) — Cal Raleigh launched his major league-leading 44th home run, Julio Rodríguez went deep twice and the surging Seattle Mariners defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 7-4 after retiring Ichiro Suzuki’s No. 51 jersey. Seattle extended its win streak to six, the longest active run in the American League, and moved within a half-game of Houston atop the AL West. After hitting the go-ahead homer in the eighth inning Friday night, Raleigh delivered another three-run shot Saturday to put Seattle up 5-1 in the third. Rodríguez connected on the next pitch from starter Joe Boyle, who lasted 3 1/3 innings. Rodríguez also hit a two-run homer in the first, a 436-foot drive, and has 23 home runs this season.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — J.J. McCarthy's return to the Minnesota Vikings was short but solid. The quarterback, who missed his rookie season due to a knee injury, led a scoring drive in a 20-10 victory over the Houston Texans on Saturday. He completed 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards, helping set up a 48-yard field goal. This performance came nearly a year after his injury in last year's preseason opener. With Sam Darnold now with the Seattle Seahawks, head coach Kevin O’Connell has handed the offense to McCarthy. The home crowd gave him a warm welcome as he took the field.NEW YORK (AP) — Mariano Rivera has torn his Achilles while chasing a flyball at the New York Yankees' Old-Timers’ Day game. His agent, Fern Cuza, says the 55-year-old closer, baseball's career leader in saves, will have surgery within a week. Rivera had singled off former teammate Andy Pettitte before the injury occurred during an at-bat by Willie Randolph. The Yankees brought back the Old-Timers' Day game for the first time since 2019. Rivera, a Hall of Famer, was playing in the event for the second time. He became the first unanimous pick for the Hall of Fame in 2019 after helping the Yankees win five World Series titles.FinalsINTERLEAGUEFinal Philadelphia 9 Texas 1Final L.A. Dodgers 5 Toronto 1Final Boston 10 San Diego 2AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Baltimore 3 Athletics 2Final Detroit 6 L.A. Angels 5FinalHouston5N.Y. Yankees3FinalCleveland9Chicago White Sox5FinalMinnesota9Kansas City4FinalSeattle3Tampa Bay2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 3 Cincinnati 2Final Miami 5 Atlanta 1Final Milwaukee 3 N.Y. Mets 2Final St. Louis 5 Chicago Cubs 0Final Arizona 6 Colorado 1Final San Francisco 5 Washington 0NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASONFinal Cleveland 30 Carolina 10&nbsp;Final Detroit 17 Atlanta 10Final New England 48 Washington 18

Sunday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kody Clemens and Matt Wallner homered, Ryan Jeffers had three hits and two RBIs, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Friday night

Rookie Luke Keaschall continued his hot hitting with two singles and two RBIs. He has six hits and eight RBIs in three games after returning from a three-month stint on the IL&nbsp;due to a broken bone in his right forearm.

Joe Ryan (11-5) allowed one run on four hits with no walks and five strikeouts over five innings for the Twins, who have won three straight.

Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who have lost three of four.

The Twins roughed up Royals starter Seth Lugo (8-6), scoring multiple runs in three of the four innings he pitched.

Keaschall had RBI singles in the first and second innings. Jeffers also had a RBI single in the second as the Twins built a 5-1 lead.

Clemens set a career high with his 13th homer, a two-run shot in the fourth.

After Yastrzemski hit a leadoff homer in the first, the Twins responded immediately when Wallner hammered a sinker into the bullpens in left-center with one out in the bottom of the inning.

Ryan is 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.

LHP Noah Cameron (5-5, 2.68 ERA) will start for the Royals against RHP Bailey Ober (4-6, 5.38) in the second game of the series on Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754751744371.jpeg" alt="Minnesota Twins' Kody Clemens, right, runs the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)" />
 <figcaption>Minnesota Twins' Kody Clemens, right, runs the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kody Clemens and Matt Wallner homered, Ryan Jeffers had three hits and two RBIs, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Friday nightRookie Luke Keaschall continued his hot hitting with two singles and two RBIs. He has six hits and eight RBIs in three games after returning from a three-month stint on the IL&nbsp;due to a broken bone in his right forearm.Joe Ryan (11-5) allowed one run on four hits with no walks and five strikeouts over five innings for the Twins, who have won three straight.Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who have lost three of four.The Twins roughed up Royals starter Seth Lugo (8-6), scoring multiple runs in three of the four innings he pitched.Keaschall had RBI singles in the first and second innings. Jeffers also had a RBI single in the second as the Twins built a 5-1 lead.Clemens set a career high with his 13th homer, a two-run shot in the fourth.<h2>Key moment</h2>After Yastrzemski hit a leadoff homer in the first, the Twins responded immediately when Wallner hammered a sinker into the bullpens in left-center with one out in the bottom of the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Ryan is 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.<h2>Up next</h2>LHP Noah Cameron (5-5, 2.68 ERA) will start for the Royals against RHP Bailey Ober (4-6, 5.38) in the second game of the series on Saturday night.

Clemens and Wallner homer as Twins beat Royals 9-4 for third straight win

ATLANTA (AP) — Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris was in stable condition after he was attended to for about 20 minutes and taken off the field in an ambulance Friday night against Atlanta, with the preseason game ending early. The Lions released a statement, saying: “Morice Norris is in stable condition and has feeling and movement in all his extremities. He will remain at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta overnight for observation." Norris was hurt with 14:50 to go trying to tackle Nathan Carter. When play resumed, Atlanta's Emory Jones took a snap and held the ball as players from teams stood at the line of scrimmage as the clock continued to run. Finally, with 6:31 left, an official said the game was suspended with Detroit up 17-10.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Shedeur Sanders has made an impressive NFL debut with the Cleveland Browns. On Friday night, he completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a 30-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. His father, Deion Sanders, celebrated his performance on social media. Sanders expressed mixed feelings, calling it a dream come true but admitting he could have played better. The Browns have been dealing with injuries at quarterback, giving Sanders the opportunity to start. Despite some early challenges, he showed promise and even caught the attention of NBA star LeBron James. Sanders was initially projected to go higher in the draft but fell to the fifth round.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Max Scherzer and Clayton Kershaw went toe-to-toe for six innings in a vintage duel Friday night. The 41-year-old Scherzer, pitching for Toronto, made his 465th career start. Kershaw, 37, started his 443rd game — all for the Los Angeles Dodgers over 18 seasons. Once teammates in Los Angeles, both pitchers have won three Cy Young Awards and are likely headed to the Hall of Fame. Kershaw allowed one run and seven hits, striking out four. Scherzer gave up two runs and six hits, striking out five. A two-run homer by Mookie Betts gave the Dodgers a 2-1 lead. It was the fourth time Scherzer and Kershaw faced each other. Before the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised both pitchers for their competitiveness and unique styles.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Tom Brady's statue, weighing six tons and standing 17 feet tall, has been unveiled outside the New England Patriots' stadium. Brady, a three-time NFL MVP and seven-time champion, retired in 2023 as the league's most-decorated player. The Patriots inducted him into their Hall of Fame last year, waiving the usual waiting period. The statue, created by sculptor Jeff Buccacio, features a hexagonal granite base and a 12-foot figure of Brady. During the ceremony, Brady humorously referenced his former coach Bill Belichick and took a playful jab at the New York Jets. Fans and former teammates attended the event.

SOUTHAMPTON, England (AP) — Wrexham has been denied a Hollywood-style ending on its return to English soccer’s second tier as relegated Premier League team Southampton has struck twice in the final minutes to grab a 2-1 win. Josh Windass’ penalty kick in the 22nd minute looked enough for Wrexham’s first win in the Welsh team’s first game back in the division in 43 years. But Irish defender Ryan Manning equalized in the 90th with a brilliant free kick over the wall inside the right post from outside the box, then sent Jack Stephens sliding in at the far post to poke the winning goal into the roof of the net in the 96th.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is considered day-to-day with a dislocated pinkie. That's according to a person with knowledge of the injury who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Friday because the team hadn’t yet made an official statement. It’s unclear when Richardson will practice next. Indy did not hold practice Friday and is scheduled to do so Saturday. Richardson was injured on the second possession of the Colts’ preseason game against the Ravens on Thursday night. In other injury news, the Colts closed the day by making a series of moves including placing running back Salvon Ahmed and cornerback Justin Walley on the season-ending injured reserve list.

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Deion Sanders appreciates questions about his health after a recent scare. The Colorado coach says he feels healthy and vibrant. Sanders has returned to the team after treatment for bladder cancer. He’s focused on preparing for the season opener against Georgia Tech on August 29. A key task is deciding between quarterbacks Julian Lewis and Kaidon Salter. Sanders says the team will play a different style of offense this year. He’s taking his time to evaluate the quarterbacks, with a hand from Byron Leftwich. Sanders, who turns 58 on Saturday, says he’s enjoying life and learning to trust his instincts more.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Tommy Fleetwood is giving himself another chance at finally winning on the PGA Tour. The English star had four straight birdies on the back nine for the second straight day. He shot 64 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship for a four-shot lead before the round was interrupted by storms. Collin Morikawa and Akshay Bhatia were four behind. Justin Rose also was four back and had two holes remaining when he returns Saturday morning. Fleetwood had a tour title get away from him in June at the Travelers Championship. He has won big tournaments in Europe, just not on the PGA Tour.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk said he is still undecided whether to get surgery this offseason to address the significant injuries he suffered in the the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier this year. Tkachuk told ESPN in a story posted Friday that while he’s hoping to return to the ice soon after playing the Stanley Cup playoffs with a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia injury, he could miss a couple months if he has surgery. Tkachuk revealed he sustained the injuries while playing for Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. Despite the injuries, he had 23 points in 23 playoff games. The Panthers begin the regular season against the Chicago Blackhawks on October 7.

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith and defensive end Maxx Crosby were caught on video making obscene gestures toward Seattle Seahawks fans. This happened before their preseason game on Thursday night. Videos of the incident circulated on social media on Friday. In one clip, Crosby and Smith appear to respond to taunting fans with gestures as they enter the field. A fan's sign read, "Bigger Bust — Geno Or Jamarcus Russell?” Smith was the Seahawks' starter for three seasons before joining the Raiders. The game ended in a 23-23 tie.

INTERLEAGUEFinal Philadelphia 9 Texas 1Final L.A. Dodgers 5 Toronto 1&nbsp;Final Boston 10 San Diego 2

AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Baltimore 3 Athletics 2Final Detroit 6 L.A. Angels 5Final Houston 5 N.Y. Yankees 3Final Cleveland 9 Chicago White Sox 5Final Minnesota 9 Kansas City 4Final Seattle 3 Tampa Bay 2

NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 3 Cincinnati 2Final Miami 5 Atlanta 1&nbsp;Final Milwaukee 3 N.Y. Mets 2Final St. Louis 5 Chicago Cubs 0Final Arizona 6 Colorado 1Final San Francisco 5 Washington 0

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASONFinal Cleveland 30 Carolina 10Final Detroit 17 Atlanta 10Final New England 48 Washington 18

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739459822020.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris was in stable condition after he was attended to for about 20 minutes and taken off the field in an ambulance Friday night against Atlanta, with the preseason game ending early. The Lions released a statement, saying: “Morice Norris is in stable condition and has feeling and movement in all his extremities. He will remain at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta overnight for observation." Norris was hurt with 14:50 to go trying to tackle Nathan Carter. When play resumed, Atlanta's Emory Jones took a snap and held the ball as players from teams stood at the line of scrimmage as the clock continued to run. Finally, with 6:31 left, an official said the game was suspended with Detroit up 17-10.CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Shedeur Sanders has made an impressive NFL debut with the Cleveland Browns. On Friday night, he completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a 30-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. His father, Deion Sanders, celebrated his performance on social media. Sanders expressed mixed feelings, calling it a dream come true but admitting he could have played better. The Browns have been dealing with injuries at quarterback, giving Sanders the opportunity to start. Despite some early challenges, he showed promise and even caught the attention of NBA star LeBron James. Sanders was initially projected to go higher in the draft but fell to the fifth round.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Max Scherzer and Clayton Kershaw went toe-to-toe for six innings in a vintage duel Friday night. The 41-year-old Scherzer, pitching for Toronto, made his 465th career start. Kershaw, 37, started his 443rd game — all for the Los Angeles Dodgers over 18 seasons. Once teammates in Los Angeles, both pitchers have won three Cy Young Awards and are likely headed to the Hall of Fame. Kershaw allowed one run and seven hits, striking out four. Scherzer gave up two runs and six hits, striking out five. A two-run homer by Mookie Betts gave the Dodgers a 2-1 lead. It was the fourth time Scherzer and Kershaw faced each other. Before the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised both pitchers for their competitiveness and unique styles.FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Tom Brady's statue, weighing six tons and standing 17 feet tall, has been unveiled outside the New England Patriots' stadium. Brady, a three-time NFL MVP and seven-time champion, retired in 2023 as the league's most-decorated player. The Patriots inducted him into their Hall of Fame last year, waiving the usual waiting period. The statue, created by sculptor Jeff Buccacio, features a hexagonal granite base and a 12-foot figure of Brady. During the ceremony, Brady humorously referenced his former coach Bill Belichick and took a playful jab at the New York Jets. Fans and former teammates attended the event.SOUTHAMPTON, England (AP) — Wrexham has been denied a Hollywood-style ending on its return to English soccer’s second tier as relegated Premier League team Southampton has struck twice in the final minutes to grab a 2-1 win. Josh Windass’ penalty kick in the 22nd minute looked enough for Wrexham’s first win in the Welsh team’s first game back in the division in 43 years. But Irish defender Ryan Manning equalized in the 90th with a brilliant free kick over the wall inside the right post from outside the box, then sent Jack Stephens sliding in at the far post to poke the winning goal into the roof of the net in the 96th.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is considered day-to-day with a dislocated pinkie. That's according to a person with knowledge of the injury who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Friday because the team hadn’t yet made an official statement. It’s unclear when Richardson will practice next. Indy did not hold practice Friday and is scheduled to do so Saturday. Richardson was injured on the second possession of the Colts’ preseason game against the Ravens on Thursday night. In other injury news, the Colts closed the day by making a series of moves including placing running back Salvon Ahmed and cornerback Justin Walley on the season-ending injured reserve list.BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Deion Sanders appreciates questions about his health after a recent scare. The Colorado coach says he feels healthy and vibrant. Sanders has returned to the team after treatment for bladder cancer. He’s focused on preparing for the season opener against Georgia Tech on August 29. A key task is deciding between quarterbacks Julian Lewis and Kaidon Salter. Sanders says the team will play a different style of offense this year. He’s taking his time to evaluate the quarterbacks, with a hand from Byron Leftwich. Sanders, who turns 58 on Saturday, says he’s enjoying life and learning to trust his instincts more.MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Tommy Fleetwood is giving himself another chance at finally winning on the PGA Tour. The English star had four straight birdies on the back nine for the second straight day. He shot 64 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship for a four-shot lead before the round was interrupted by storms. Collin Morikawa and Akshay Bhatia were four behind. Justin Rose also was four back and had two holes remaining when he returns Saturday morning. Fleetwood had a tour title get away from him in June at the Travelers Championship. He has won big tournaments in Europe, just not on the PGA Tour.FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk said he is still undecided whether to get surgery this offseason to address the significant injuries he suffered in the the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier this year. Tkachuk told ESPN in a story posted Friday that while he’s hoping to return to the ice soon after playing the Stanley Cup playoffs with a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia injury, he could miss a couple months if he has surgery. Tkachuk revealed he sustained the injuries while playing for Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. Despite the injuries, he had 23 points in 23 playoff games. The Panthers begin the regular season against the Chicago Blackhawks on October 7.HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith and defensive end Maxx Crosby were caught on video making obscene gestures toward Seattle Seahawks fans. This happened before their preseason game on Thursday night. Videos of the incident circulated on social media on Friday. In one clip, Crosby and Smith appear to respond to taunting fans with gestures as they enter the field. A fan's sign read, "Bigger Bust — Geno Or Jamarcus Russell?” Smith was the Seahawks' starter for three seasons before joining the Raiders. The game ended in a 23-23 tie.FinalsINTERLEAGUEFinal Philadelphia 9 Texas 1Final L.A. Dodgers 5 Toronto 1&nbsp;Final Boston 10 San Diego 2AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Baltimore 3 Athletics 2Final Detroit 6 L.A. Angels 5Final Houston 5 N.Y. Yankees 3Final Cleveland 9 Chicago White Sox 5Final Minnesota 9 Kansas City 4Final Seattle 3 Tampa Bay 2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 3 Cincinnati 2Final Miami 5 Atlanta 1&nbsp;Final Milwaukee 3 N.Y. Mets 2Final St. Louis 5 Chicago Cubs 0Final Arizona 6 Colorado 1Final San Francisco 5 Washington 0NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASONFinal Cleveland 30 Carolina 10Final Detroit 17 Atlanta 10Final New England 48 Washington 18

Saturday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Saturday, August 9 5:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Kansas City @ Minnesota Sunday, August 10 11:30AM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Kansas City @ Minnesota 5:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Major League Baseball - Chicago Cubs @ St. Louis Monday, August 11 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Tuesday, August 12 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Wednesday, August 13 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Friday, August 15 6:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City Saturday, August 16 5:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City Sunday, August 17 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City 5:00PM 1590/95.5FM - MLB Little League Classic @ Williamsport, PA - Seattle vs New York Mets Monday, August 18 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Tuesday, August 19 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Wednesday, August 20 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Thursday, August 21 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City

Saturday, August 9 5:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Kansas City @ Minnesota Sunday, August 10 11:30AM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Kansas City @ Minnesota 5:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Major League Baseball - Chicago Cubs @ St. Louis Monday, August 11 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Tuesday, August 12 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Wednesday, August 13 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Washington @ Kansas City Friday, August 15 6:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City Saturday, August 16 5:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City Sunday, August 17 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City 5:00PM 1590/95.5FM - MLB Little League Classic @ Williamsport, PA - Seattle vs New York Mets Monday, August 18 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Tuesday, August 19 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Wednesday, August 20 6:00PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City Thursday, August 21 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Royals Baseball - Texas @ Kansas City

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

By DR. KARISSA NIEHOFF NFHS

As the new school year begins around the country, practices are underway in many of the familiar fall sports in our nation’s schools, with football and Friday Night Lights drawing much of the attention.

However, in addition to many of the eight million high school sports participants who will be in action soon, millions of other students will be flocking to other school activity programs, such as speech/debate, theatre and music.

In music programs alone, it is estimated that six to eight million participants are involved in marching band, ensemble, concert band, jazz band, orchestra, choir, mariachi and other programs.

These music programs are, in fact, cocurricular in that they combine and complete the work done in the classroom, with competitions, festivals and contests held after school.

Like their counterparts on the sports fields, these activities are life-changing and set students up for successful lives and careers beyond high school. And not only do these programs complete the work from the classroom, they provide additional values and benefits not readily available through the classroom – teamwork, fair play, respect, self-confidence and a better self-image.

Earlier this summer, high school music students and schools celebrated Make Music Day – a global celebration of music held annually on June 21 open to anyone who wants to participate.

Thirteen middle school and high school music programs across the country submitted video testimonials detailing how music education has profoundly impacted their lives and received recognition and free music from Alfred Music, thanks to a partnership involving the NFHS.  

A sampling of a few of those responses reveals the tremendous value and impact of these activities to millions of students.

“To me, music is a form of self-expression that I can’t find in other activities at school and in my day-to-day life,” said Henry Tuju, a percussionist in the music program at O’Fallon (Illinois) Township High School. “Whenever I play music, I get the opportunity that I can share with others while also making it my own. It’s a way to connect with myself, with my peers and with my sense of identity and purpose.”

Logan Farmer, a trombone player in the O’Fallon band, talks about the lifelong benefits he has gained from his involvement in music.

“I love band, and I’ve learned so much about how to be a man, how to be a leader, and how to be a musician,” Farmer said. “So much of who I am, has been learned from people in band. I feel so much more equipped to go into my life and be a future husband and father and leader in the world because of my experience in band.”        

Many of the students also shared about the impact that music programs had on the communities surrounding their schools – not only from family and friends of current students, but former students who remained in those communities and continued to support the music program and other school activities.

“Our music program has had a very big impact on our community as we get huge turnouts for all of our concerts,” said Fiona Brandt, who is a part of the music program at Hall-Dale High School in Farmingdale, Maine. “I’ve grown up with music my whole life. For me, it is a place where I can really be myself and do what I love. I also see a value and appreciation for what music education does for everyone.”

All afterschool activity programs in our nation’s middle schools and high schools – sports, music, speech and debate, theatre and a host of others – are so essential to the overall development of our nation’s youth. We salute all the teachers, coaches, advisors and other adult leaders who will be working with the millions of these students in the upcoming school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643235301160.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DR. KARISSA NIEHOFF NFHSAs the new school year begins around the country, practices are underway in many of the familiar fall sports in our nation’s schools, with football and Friday Night Lights drawing much of the attention.However, in addition to many of the eight million high school sports participants who will be in action soon, millions of other students will be flocking to other school activity programs, such as speech/debate, theatre and music.In music programs alone, it is estimated that six to eight million participants are involved in marching band, ensemble, concert band, jazz band, orchestra, choir, mariachi and other programs.These music programs are, in fact, cocurricular in that they combine and complete the work done in the classroom, with competitions, festivals and contests held after school.Like their counterparts on the sports fields, these activities are life-changing and set students up for successful lives and careers beyond high school. And not only do these programs complete the work from the classroom, they provide additional values and benefits not readily available through the classroom – teamwork, fair play, respect, self-confidence and a better self-image.Earlier this summer, high school music students and schools celebrated Make Music Day – a global celebration of music held annually on June 21 open to anyone who wants to participate.Thirteen middle school and high school music programs across the country submitted video testimonials detailing how music education has profoundly impacted their lives and received recognition and free music from Alfred Music, thanks to a partnership involving the NFHS. A sampling of a few of those responses reveals the tremendous value and impact of these activities to millions of students.“To me, music is a form of self-expression that I can’t find in other activities at school and in my day-to-day life,” said Henry Tuju, a percussionist in the music program at O’Fallon (Illinois) Township High School. “Whenever I play music, I get the opportunity that I can share with others while also making it my own. It’s a way to connect with myself, with my peers and with my sense of identity and purpose.”Logan Farmer, a trombone player in the O’Fallon band, talks about the lifelong benefits he has gained from his involvement in music.“I love band, and I’ve learned so much about how to be a man, how to be a leader, and how to be a musician,” Farmer said. “So much of who I am, has been learned from people in band. I feel so much more equipped to go into my life and be a future husband and father and leader in the world because of my experience in band.” Many of the students also shared about the impact that music programs had on the communities surrounding their schools – not only from family and friends of current students, but former students who remained in those communities and continued to support the music program and other school activities.“Our music program has had a very big impact on our community as we get huge turnouts for all of our concerts,” said Fiona Brandt, who is a part of the music program at Hall-Dale High School in Farmingdale, Maine. “I’ve grown up with music my whole life. For me, it is a place where I can really be myself and do what I love. I also see a value and appreciation for what music education does for everyone.”All afterschool activity programs in our nation’s middle schools and high schools – sports, music, speech and debate, theatre and a host of others – are so essential to the overall development of our nation’s youth. We salute all the teachers, coaches, advisors and other adult leaders who will be working with the millions of these students in the upcoming school year.

Millions of Students Gain Benefits from Involvement in School Music Activity Programs

Kansas redshirt senior&nbsp;Bryce Foster&nbsp;was one of 40 centers to be named to the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List, the organization announced on Friday. The Rimington Trophy is presented annually to the most outstanding center in NCAA Division I College Football.

Foster, of Katy, Texas, started all 12 games at center for the Jayhawks in 2024, paving the way for 211.4 rushing yards per game and allowing just 10 sacks as a unit. Foster recently was named to the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List on July 29, awarded to college football's premiere interior lineman.

Following the end of the 2024 season, Foster was named Second Team All-Big 12 and earned All-America honors in track &amp; field at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Championships. Foster arrived at Kansas following three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, starting 28 games and being named to the 2021 SEC All-Freshman Team, 2021 FWAA Freshman All-America Team and the 2021 The Athletic Freshman All-America First Team.

The Rimington Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football's most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935.Dave Rimington, the award's namesake, was a consensus first-team All-America center at the University of Nebraska in 1981 and 1982, during which time he became the John Outland Trophy's only two-time winner as the nation's finest college interior lineman.

The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753815462116.jpeg" alt="KUAthletics.com" />
 <figcaption>KUAthletics.com</figcaption>
 </figure>KUAthletics.com&nbsp; Kansas redshirt senior&nbsp;Bryce Foster&nbsp;was one of 40 centers to be named to the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List, the organization announced on Friday. The Rimington Trophy is presented annually to the most outstanding center in NCAA Division I College Football.Foster, of Katy, Texas, started all 12 games at center for the Jayhawks in 2024, paving the way for 211.4 rushing yards per game and allowing just 10 sacks as a unit. Foster recently was named to the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List on July 29, awarded to college football's premiere interior lineman.Following the end of the 2024 season, Foster was named Second Team All-Big 12 and earned All-America honors in track &amp; field at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Championships. Foster arrived at Kansas following three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, starting 28 games and being named to the 2021 SEC All-Freshman Team, 2021 FWAA Freshman All-America Team and the 2021 The Athletic Freshman All-America First Team.The Rimington Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football's most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935.Dave Rimington, the award's namesake, was a consensus first-team All-America center at the University of Nebraska in 1981 and 1982, during which time he became the John Outland Trophy's only two-time winner as the nation's finest college interior lineman.The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bryce Foster Named to Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List

D. Scott Fritchen KStateSports.com&nbsp;

There are simply so many ways to begin a story about&nbsp;Austin Romaine. He is technically sound. He is mean. The 6-foot-2, 245-pound junior is everything you want in a linebacker. He smiles as he thinks back to his early days as a child from Hillsboro, Missouri, and how he became one of the best all-around players in the state. He played with passion. He played hungry. He received a scholarship offer from Harvard. He thought that was cool. But he knew that he was going to Kansas State, the only Power 4 school to offer him a scholarship. That's all he needed — a golden ticket, a chance to live out his dream in this purple-and-white world, the happiest place on earth.

We can start the story from the beginning. Google "Hillsboro High School" and the accompanying image isn't the academic building that houses more than 1,000 students on 123 Leon Hall Parkway in Hillsboro, Missouri. No, Google the high school and the image that pops up is the school's football field. It's a beautiful sight, really, with the sun dropping below the trees and large stadium lights towering over the game played below.

The field is where Romaine dominated as one of the nation's top-50 inside linebackers, and it's where he rushed for more than 3,000 yards and scored 45 touchdowns during a remarkable career. There's a part of Romaine who always thought he'd play baseball — Jason, his father, put a baseball into Austin's hand before he could walk — but Romaine's strides and devastation between the lines demanded the attention of college football scouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Romaine came to K-State. That was a no-brainer. He arrived at K-State as a three-star recruit and the 49th-best inside linebacker in the Class of 2023 by ESPN after earning first-team all-state honors.

Hillsboro High head coach Bill Sucharski was understandably aghast over Romaine's on-field exploits — and where they could lead him someday.

"When you watch football games there are players who are game changers," Sucharski says. "Austin was that type of player. I watched several players who became NFL players, and you could tell they were different than other kids on the field.

On Wednesday, inside the team theater room at the Vanier Family Football Complex, Romaine appears, dare we say, a little bit bashful at the heaping praise that has been laid at his feet over the summer of 2025, and as he grinded, and watched film, and watched more film, and worked out, and hit the ice tubs, and took moments now and then just to hang out with his teammates.&nbsp;

Sometimes his teammates will say, "Congratulations." But Romaine, without playing a single down this fall, often doesn't know the reason behind his teammates' praise. Romaine hears nice things about his play, but he tries to stay away from it all. Romaine even deleted his Twitter account.

"The preseason accolades can come out," Romaine says, "but they don't mean anything unless they're after the season. I want to keep my head down and grind."

One day, Romaine is on watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Butkus Award. The next day he's named the best defensive player in the Big 12 Conference by Pro Football Focus. And the next day he's listed as the highest-graded returning linebacker among Power 4 schools.

"I'm excited because I think he's going to have an All-American type season," K-State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;says.

Romaine has started 17 games over the last two seasons, including 12 starts during the Wildcats' 9-4 campaign in 2024. Romaine finished with 96 tackles to go along with 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three forced fumbles and two pass breakups over his 621 defensive snaps en route to All-Big 12 Second Team honors.&nbsp;

"I think he's one of the best linebackers we've had to play in this system, whether it's been here or at other jobs that I've had," Klieman says. "This kid is a great leader, great tackler, he's got a great base to him, and he's very athletic."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Romaine has already shown that he's a quick learner. For all the I-remember-when stories old men will swap in donut shops across small Kansas towns years from now, this story might not be in the conversation, but it's a critical piece to what we're seeing now.

Here's the story: Romaine was thrust into action as a true freshman due to an array of injuries that plagued the linebacker position in 2023. He played in 12 games with five starts while earning votes from the league's coaches for Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors. His five starts were the most by a K-State freshman linebacker since at least 1988. He had 22 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss and one sack over his 320 defensive snaps while also seeing time on 67 special teams plays.

He was forced into action when sixth-year senior Deuce Green, the heartbeat of the defense, went down with a season-ending injury. Daunting? For sure. But Romaine held his own — despite playing part of the season with a broken left hand.

"It's crazy just being thrown in there," Romaine says. "I didn't know much. It pushed me along a lot faster, being next to&nbsp;Austin Moore&nbsp;and Deuce Green, and having Deuce behind me all the time, helping me. It pushed my development a lot faster."

That's a big part of the&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;story.&nbsp;"We never anticipated him playing as a true freshman and all of the sudden he gets thrown in there," K-State linebackers coach&nbsp;Steve Stanard&nbsp;says. "Austin has made tremendous gains."

Last season, in his first season as a full-time starter, Romaine posted the most tackles by a K-State player since Jayd Kirby had 99 stops in 2017. Romaine had a career-high 12 tackles at West Virginia, Houston and Iowa State. Two of his forced fumbles led to game-winning scores. One was returned 60 yards for a touchdown at Tulane in a seven-point win and another forced fumble led to a 51-yard field goal against Kansas in a two-point victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

There was a moment that Wildcat Nation didn't see. It came as Romaine quietly stood outside the locker room at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. K-State had just battled to a 44-41 come-from-behind victory over Rutgers. Senior&nbsp;Austin Moore, who seemingly forever was a standout linebacker and team leader, in his final words before disappearing into the locker room for the last time, pointed at Romaine, turned to reporters, and said, "This guy is going to be a pro!"

"Ever since I got here, I looked up to&nbsp;Austin Moore," Romaine says. "He did everything right on and off the field as a player and leader. To get that compliment from him felt really good. To play and learn from him for two years really helped me."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Now, Stanard chuckles. Some guys, behind their experience and playmaking ability and leadership capability, simply become a pillar of the program. That's Romaine.

"Austin is going into his third year, and it feels like he's been here for five," Stanard says. "He sees the game at a different speed. He's ahead of the shifts and motions and recognizes formations and what plays are coming out of formations. He's always trying to get better and hone the craft. That's what I really, really respect."

Romaine is taking second-level and third-level steps as he prepares for the fall. He's a demon on the field. He's a nuisance for the offense. At times, in scrimmages, it appears that he's probably almost too good in the eyes of K-State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells.

"Matt Wells&nbsp;is saying, 'How's he seeing this?'" Stanard says. "Austin is a really good zone cover linebacker right now. He knows routes and what routes are coming out of formations. He spends a lot of time up in the meeting room doing the 'unrequired' — stuff we don't ask him to do. And he's asking questions all the time. He wants to know what's going on around him with the defensive ends and safeties. Then he understands concepts and pieces things together. It's easy to coach Austin."

Seems that Romaine is doing some sort of preparation all…the…time.&nbsp;

"I'm not really sure how much time I'm up here, but I'm always asking coaches questions about what I can see, and what can get me better pre-snap and post-snap," Romaine says. "I'm always in the film room trying to understand backfield sets and formations of what is coming out of different plays so when I get onto the field, I feel like I can see better and see what's happening better. If I'm wrong, I'm wrong, and now I can understand why. I've grown a lot in that part. I was just flowing around as a young guy, and I didn't know where to go when my keys went certain ways. I've grown a lot."

The last K-State linebacker to study like this: Probably Mark Simoneau.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

And again, there was a time when football was on the backburner and baseball was the buzz for Romaine in Hillsboro. That changed when a coach approached Jason Romaine about possibly having Austin play little league football. Austin was 12. As his football career took off, college interest grew as well. Romaine carried a 4.3 GPA and received interest from all the Ivy League schools. He had 17 scholarship offers in all. But he had a soft spot for K-State, which was the only Power 4 school to offer him a scholarship. He loved that Stanard chose to attend his high school football games. It was while participating in a K-State camp on June 27, 2022, that Romaine received his official offer from the Wildcats.

Today, the national spotlight shines upon the pride of Hillsboro. And it'll assuredly follow him when No. 20 K-State opens its season against No. 21 Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland, on August 23. And it'll follow him on through the October and November and into the Big 12 Championship Game, if the Wildcats reach that goal. And if things work out, the lights will absolutely follow Romaine into the College Football Playoff.

In this day in age in college football in which some star players seemingly arrive — and then leave — Romaine has apparently planted roots in the Little Apple. Sometimes he thinks back to simpler times, when this dream began, and it was him, a football, and an opportunity.

Now he has the opportunity to be regarded as one of the best linebackers in college football. But that stuff, he insists, doesn't matter until the season and body of work has been fully digested.

In that sense, the&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;story is just getting started.

And he wouldn't want to finish his story anywhere else.

"I love this place," Romaine says. "I've loved it ever since I stepped on campus. When I was in high school, I knew it was home. It was the only Power 4 school to offer me and give me a shot. I've taken full advantage of that, and I've dug in here. Our coaches say to dig in where you're at. I've dug in here, into this culture, and into my teammates and coaches and support staff."

"I've dug in," he says, "and I will continue to keep digging in.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754659151562.jpeg" alt="KStateSports.com" />
 <figcaption>KStateSports.com</figcaption>
 </figure>D. Scott Fritchen KStateSports.com&nbsp; There are simply so many ways to begin a story about&nbsp;Austin Romaine. He is technically sound. He is mean. The 6-foot-2, 245-pound junior is everything you want in a linebacker. He smiles as he thinks back to his early days as a child from Hillsboro, Missouri, and how he became one of the best all-around players in the state. He played with passion. He played hungry. He received a scholarship offer from Harvard. He thought that was cool. But he knew that he was going to Kansas State, the only Power 4 school to offer him a scholarship. That's all he needed — a golden ticket, a chance to live out his dream in this purple-and-white world, the happiest place on earth.We can start the story from the beginning. Google "Hillsboro High School" and the accompanying image isn't the academic building that houses more than 1,000 students on 123 Leon Hall Parkway in Hillsboro, Missouri. No, Google the high school and the image that pops up is the school's football field. It's a beautiful sight, really, with the sun dropping below the trees and large stadium lights towering over the game played below.The field is where Romaine dominated as one of the nation's top-50 inside linebackers, and it's where he rushed for more than 3,000 yards and scored 45 touchdowns during a remarkable career. There's a part of Romaine who always thought he'd play baseball — Jason, his father, put a baseball into Austin's hand before he could walk — but Romaine's strides and devastation between the lines demanded the attention of college football scouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Romaine came to K-State. That was a no-brainer. He arrived at K-State as a three-star recruit and the 49th-best inside linebacker in the Class of 2023 by ESPN after earning first-team all-state honors.Hillsboro High head coach Bill Sucharski was understandably aghast over Romaine's on-field exploits — and where they could lead him someday."When you watch football games there are players who are game changers," Sucharski says. "Austin was that type of player. I watched several players who became NFL players, and you could tell they were different than other kids on the field."That was Austin."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On Wednesday, inside the team theater room at the Vanier Family Football Complex, Romaine appears, dare we say, a little bit bashful at the heaping praise that has been laid at his feet over the summer of 2025, and as he grinded, and watched film, and watched more film, and worked out, and hit the ice tubs, and took moments now and then just to hang out with his teammates.&nbsp;Sometimes his teammates will say, "Congratulations." But Romaine, without playing a single down this fall, often doesn't know the reason behind his teammates' praise. Romaine hears nice things about his play, but he tries to stay away from it all. Romaine even deleted his Twitter account."The preseason accolades can come out," Romaine says, "but they don't mean anything unless they're after the season. I want to keep my head down and grind."One day, Romaine is on watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Butkus Award. The next day he's named the best defensive player in the Big 12 Conference by Pro Football Focus. And the next day he's listed as the highest-graded returning linebacker among Power 4 schools."I'm excited because I think he's going to have an All-American type season," K-State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;says.Romaine has started 17 games over the last two seasons, including 12 starts during the Wildcats' 9-4 campaign in 2024. Romaine finished with 96 tackles to go along with 7.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three forced fumbles and two pass breakups over his 621 defensive snaps en route to All-Big 12 Second Team honors.&nbsp;"I think he's one of the best linebackers we've had to play in this system, whether it's been here or at other jobs that I've had," Klieman says. "This kid is a great leader, great tackler, he's got a great base to him, and he's very athletic."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Romaine has already shown that he's a quick learner. For all the I-remember-when stories old men will swap in donut shops across small Kansas towns years from now, this story might not be in the conversation, but it's a critical piece to what we're seeing now.Here's the story: Romaine was thrust into action as a true freshman due to an array of injuries that plagued the linebacker position in 2023. He played in 12 games with five starts while earning votes from the league's coaches for Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors. His five starts were the most by a K-State freshman linebacker since at least 1988. He had 22 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss and one sack over his 320 defensive snaps while also seeing time on 67 special teams plays.He was forced into action when sixth-year senior Deuce Green, the heartbeat of the defense, went down with a season-ending injury. Daunting? For sure. But Romaine held his own — despite playing part of the season with a broken left hand."It's crazy just being thrown in there," Romaine says. "I didn't know much. It pushed me along a lot faster, being next to&nbsp;Austin Moore&nbsp;and Deuce Green, and having Deuce behind me all the time, helping me. It pushed my development a lot faster."That's a big part of the&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;story.&nbsp;"We never anticipated him playing as a true freshman and all of the sudden he gets thrown in there," K-State linebackers coach&nbsp;Steve Stanard&nbsp;says. "Austin has made tremendous gains."Last season, in his first season as a full-time starter, Romaine posted the most tackles by a K-State player since Jayd Kirby had 99 stops in 2017. Romaine had a career-high 12 tackles at West Virginia, Houston and Iowa State. Two of his forced fumbles led to game-winning scores. One was returned 60 yards for a touchdown at Tulane in a seven-point win and another forced fumble led to a 51-yard field goal against Kansas in a two-point victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There was a moment that Wildcat Nation didn't see. It came as Romaine quietly stood outside the locker room at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. K-State had just battled to a 44-41 come-from-behind victory over Rutgers. Senior&nbsp;Austin Moore, who seemingly forever was a standout linebacker and team leader, in his final words before disappearing into the locker room for the last time, pointed at Romaine, turned to reporters, and said, "This guy is going to be a pro!""Ever since I got here, I looked up to&nbsp;Austin Moore," Romaine says. "He did everything right on and off the field as a player and leader. To get that compliment from him felt really good. To play and learn from him for two years really helped me."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Now, Stanard chuckles. Some guys, behind their experience and playmaking ability and leadership capability, simply become a pillar of the program. That's Romaine."Austin is going into his third year, and it feels like he's been here for five," Stanard says. "He sees the game at a different speed. He's ahead of the shifts and motions and recognizes formations and what plays are coming out of formations. He's always trying to get better and hone the craft. That's what I really, really respect."Romaine is taking second-level and third-level steps as he prepares for the fall. He's a demon on the field. He's a nuisance for the offense. At times, in scrimmages, it appears that he's probably almost too good in the eyes of K-State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells."Matt Wells&nbsp;is saying, 'How's he seeing this?'" Stanard says. "Austin is a really good zone cover linebacker right now. He knows routes and what routes are coming out of formations. He spends a lot of time up in the meeting room doing the 'unrequired' — stuff we don't ask him to do. And he's asking questions all the time. He wants to know what's going on around him with the defensive ends and safeties. Then he understands concepts and pieces things together. It's easy to coach Austin."Seems that Romaine is doing some sort of preparation all…the…time.&nbsp;"I'm not really sure how much time I'm up here, but I'm always asking coaches questions about what I can see, and what can get me better pre-snap and post-snap," Romaine says. "I'm always in the film room trying to understand backfield sets and formations of what is coming out of different plays so when I get onto the field, I feel like I can see better and see what's happening better. If I'm wrong, I'm wrong, and now I can understand why. I've grown a lot in that part. I was just flowing around as a young guy, and I didn't know where to go when my keys went certain ways. I've grown a lot."The last K-State linebacker to study like this: Probably Mark Simoneau.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And again, there was a time when football was on the backburner and baseball was the buzz for Romaine in Hillsboro. That changed when a coach approached Jason Romaine about possibly having Austin play little league football. Austin was 12. As his football career took off, college interest grew as well. Romaine carried a 4.3 GPA and received interest from all the Ivy League schools. He had 17 scholarship offers in all. But he had a soft spot for K-State, which was the only Power 4 school to offer him a scholarship. He loved that Stanard chose to attend his high school football games. It was while participating in a K-State camp on June 27, 2022, that Romaine received his official offer from the Wildcats.Today, the national spotlight shines upon the pride of Hillsboro. And it'll assuredly follow him when No. 20 K-State opens its season against No. 21 Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland, on August 23. And it'll follow him on through the October and November and into the Big 12 Championship Game, if the Wildcats reach that goal. And if things work out, the lights will absolutely follow Romaine into the College Football Playoff.In this day in age in college football in which some star players seemingly arrive — and then leave — Romaine has apparently planted roots in the Little Apple. Sometimes he thinks back to simpler times, when this dream began, and it was him, a football, and an opportunity.Now he has the opportunity to be regarded as one of the best linebackers in college football. But that stuff, he insists, doesn't matter until the season and body of work has been fully digested.In that sense, the&nbsp;Austin Romaine&nbsp;story is just getting started.And he wouldn't want to finish his story anywhere else."I love this place," Romaine says. "I've loved it ever since I stepped on campus. When I was in high school, I knew it was home. It was the only Power 4 school to offer me and give me a shot. I've taken full advantage of that, and I've dug in here. Our coaches say to dig in where you're at. I've dug in here, into this culture, and into my teammates and coaches and support staff."He pauses."I've dug in," he says, "and I will continue to keep digging in.&nbsp;&nbsp;

‘I Want to Keep My Head Down and Grind’

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is glad that coach Andy Reid is sending him onto the field with the rest of their starters when Kansas City visits the Arizona Cardinals for their preseason opener Saturday night.

“I don't necessarily look forward to getting hit,” Mahomes added with a smile Thursday.

Getting hit is exactly why some teams have eschewed playing starters at all in the preseason. When coaches finally decided it wasn't worth the risk to their most valuable players, they began sitting them for one or two games, and last year, teams such as the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles sat them for the entirety of their exhibition slate.

That has never been Reid's preference, though. Nor has it been that of Mahomes, who believes it does him some good to get hit — once, at least — so that he can get into the right mindset for the rest of the preseason and ultimately the regular season.

“There's always a little shock,” Mahomes said.

Now, don't get any misconceptions. The Chiefs might only have those starters on the field for a single series in Arizona, especially if it goes well. But the plan, at least after their final practice before their opener, was that each quarterback will get a full quarter — Mahomes the first, Gardner Minshew the second, Bailey Zappe the third and Chris Oladokun the fourth.

The rest of the offense would presumably follow suit.

There are certainly things that the three-time defending AFC champions want to see out of their preseason opener. Tops on the list is their new-look offense line, where first-round pick Josh Simmons has already turned some heads as the new left tackle and Kingsley Suamataia has the inside track on replacing two-time All-Pro Joe Thuney at left guard.

The Chiefs have invested heavily in their offensive line, both in draft capital and financial resources, over the past couple years, and the need to upgrade the left side in particular became evident in their Super Bowl loss in February.

There is also some competition for the final spots at wide receiver, and some different names could get some extended looks with the first-team offense. That's because Rashee Rice is sidelined with a groin injury and Marquise Brown with an ailing ankle.

“I think (my advice) is go out there and do what they're doing this camp,” Mahomes said. “It's going to be a bigger stage going up against another team, but I think Coach Reid prepares us better than anybody else in the league to go out there and play your best football. We practice hard and we practice fast so when it gets to the game, it's not that huge step up.”

It's still a substantial one, especially given Arizona is taking the same approach as Kansas City this year.

Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, who held out quarterback Kyler Murray and others his first two years and barely played any starters in the preseason last year, said this week, “I told them (Monday) night that they are going to play.”

“It’s the best thing for our team this year, honestly," Gannon explained. "We are at a good point with our health, we’re at a good point with our development, and I think this year with our team it’s the best thing to do for our guys.”

NOTES: Hall of Fame WR Terrell Owens watched the Chiefs practice at Missouri Western on Thursday. He played two seasons for Reid in Philadelphia. “Just watching people grow, I'm in a great position to see that,” Reid said. ... Former Raiders coach Antonio Pierce also has been in camp, helping longtime friend and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “Maybe we'll ask him about some Las Vegas Raiders stuff,” Spagnuolo said with a smile. ... CB Kristian Fulton (knee) came off the PUP list and took part in individual drills Thursday. LB Drue Tranquill (back) also returned to practice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754658641832.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) chases safety Mike Edwards (34) at NFL football training camp Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) chases safety Mike Edwards (34) at NFL football training camp Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is glad that coach Andy Reid is sending him onto the field with the rest of their starters when Kansas City visits the Arizona Cardinals for their preseason opener Saturday night.“I don't necessarily look forward to getting hit,” Mahomes added with a smile Thursday.Getting hit is exactly why some teams have eschewed playing starters at all in the preseason. When coaches finally decided it wasn't worth the risk to their most valuable players, they began sitting them for one or two games, and last year, teams such as the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles sat them for the entirety of their exhibition slate.That has never been Reid's preference, though. Nor has it been that of Mahomes, who believes it does him some good to get hit — once, at least — so that he can get into the right mindset for the rest of the preseason and ultimately the regular season.“There's always a little shock,” Mahomes said.Now, don't get any misconceptions. The Chiefs might only have those starters on the field for a single series in Arizona, especially if it goes well. But the plan, at least after their final practice before their opener, was that each quarterback will get a full quarter — Mahomes the first, Gardner Minshew the second, Bailey Zappe the third and Chris Oladokun the fourth.The rest of the offense would presumably follow suit.There are certainly things that the three-time defending AFC champions want to see out of their preseason opener. Tops on the list is their new-look offense line, where first-round pick Josh Simmons has already turned some heads as the new left tackle and Kingsley Suamataia has the inside track on replacing two-time All-Pro Joe Thuney at left guard.The Chiefs have invested heavily in their offensive line, both in draft capital and financial resources, over the past couple years, and the need to upgrade the left side in particular became evident in their Super Bowl loss in February.There is also some competition for the final spots at wide receiver, and some different names could get some extended looks with the first-team offense. That's because Rashee Rice is sidelined with a groin injury and Marquise Brown with an ailing ankle.“I think (my advice) is go out there and do what they're doing this camp,” Mahomes said. “It's going to be a bigger stage going up against another team, but I think Coach Reid prepares us better than anybody else in the league to go out there and play your best football. We practice hard and we practice fast so when it gets to the game, it's not that huge step up.”It's still a substantial one, especially given Arizona is taking the same approach as Kansas City this year.Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, who held out quarterback Kyler Murray and others his first two years and barely played any starters in the preseason last year, said this week, “I told them (Monday) night that they are going to play.”“It’s the best thing for our team this year, honestly," Gannon explained. "We are at a good point with our health, we’re at a good point with our development, and I think this year with our team it’s the best thing to do for our guys.”NOTES: Hall of Fame WR Terrell Owens watched the Chiefs practice at Missouri Western on Thursday. He played two seasons for Reid in Philadelphia. “Just watching people grow, I'm in a great position to see that,” Reid said. ... Former Raiders coach Antonio Pierce also has been in camp, helping longtime friend and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “Maybe we'll ask him about some Las Vegas Raiders stuff,” Spagnuolo said with a smile. ... CB Kristian Fulton (knee) came off the PUP list and took part in individual drills Thursday. LB Drue Tranquill (back) also returned to practice.

Mahomes, Chiefs starters to play in preseason opener against Cardinals

The WNBA is still struggling with a string of sex-toy disturbances. In the past week and a half, sex toys have been thrown on court during games in Atlanta on July 29, Chicago on Thursday night and Aug. 1 and Los Angeles on Aug. 5, with the most recent object nearly hitting Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham during Indiana’s game against the Sparks. Sex toys were also thrown at games in New York and Phoenix last Tuesday and at a second game in Atlanta last Friday, but didn’t reach the court. The distractions have created unexpected challenges for the league, the teams and the players, but also for arena security. Here’s what to know.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Eagles continue to use the controversial tush push play, which remains legal despite attempts to ban it. Even with key players like Jalen Hurts sitting out the preseason opener against Cincinnati, the Eagles used the play successfully. Backup quarterback Tanner McKee scored on a fourth-and-1 in the first quarter. In May, NFL owners narrowly failed to pass a proposal to ban the play, keeping it in the rulebook. The proposal, supported by health and safety committees, fell short by just two votes. Commissioner Roger Goodell focused on encouraging discussion rather than taking a stance.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Chargers tackle Rashawn Slater suffered a torn patellar tendon in practice Thursday and will miss the upcoming season. The team says he’ll undergo surgery and be placed on injured reserve. Slater got hurt less than two weeks after signing a multi-year contract extension last month. He has started all 52 career games at left tackle since being drafted 13th overall by the Chargers in 2021. Slater has been a key protector for quarterback Justin Herbert, allowing him to set several league-wide passing records.

Jerry Jones is known for dragging contract negotiations so it’s no surprise Micah Parsons is just the latest Dallas Cowboys star player to have to wait on a new deal. Dak Prescott had to play on the franchise tag in 2020 after being unable to reach agreement on an extension, and he didn’t get another new deal last season until hours before the Week 1 opener. Jones eventually caved and made Prescott the highest-paid player in NFL history with an average of $60 million per year. CeeDee Lamb held out into late August last year following an All-Pro season before Jones gave him a four-year, $136 million deal.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Tom Brady left his imprint all over the New England Patriots’ record books during his stellar two-decade run with the team. Now, he is set to become the first player in franchise history to be honored with a statue. The bronze statue will be unveiled Friday before New England’s exhibition game against the Washington Commanders. Brady will be on hand for the ceremony, which is scheduled to include an address to fans. Fans are being allowed into the plaza in front of Gillette Stadium four hours before the game to accommodate what is expected to be a large crowd.

BALTIMORE (AP) — Indianapolis quarterback Anthony Richardson left the Colts' preseason game against Baltimore after taking a sack from David Ojabo. Richardson is competing with Daniel Jones for the starting quarterback position. After the sack, Richardson jogged to the sideline and was replaced by Jones. He'd dislocated the pinky on his throwing hand. Coach Shane Steichen also said rookie cornerback Justin Walley had a torn ACL. He didn't play in the game. The Ravens ended up beating the Colts 24-16.

SEATTLE (AP) — Pete Carroll played a new role in familiar territory Thursday night, with his first preseason game as coach of the Las Vegas Raiders coming against the Seattle Seahawks. The former Seattle coach clearly felt at home before the 23-23 tie, talking with many Seahawks players on the field during warmups and generally being his outgoing, energetic self. Carroll spent 14 seasons in Seattle, going 137-89-1. He was at the helm for some of the most memorable moments in team history, including the 2013 Super Bowl championship with the dominant “Legion of Boom” defense, before the Seahawks parted ways with him after the 2023 season. Las Vegas starting quarterback Geno Smith also made a return to Seattle.

NEW YORK (AP) — Jen Pawol is set to make history as the first female umpire in more than 150 years of Major League Baseball. She received the long-awaited call while in her hotel room in Nashville, Tennessee, and will debut Saturday during Miami's doubleheader at Atlanta. Pawol, who began her umpiring journey in high school, has worked more than 1,200 minor league games. She expressed gratitude for the support of her predecessors and colleagues. Pawol will join Chris Guccione's crew in Atlanta, where she expects to have about 30 family and friends in attendance.

MONTREAL (AP) — Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko completed a dream run to the National Bank Open title Thursday night, overcoming a slow and swollen right wrist start to beat Japanese star Naomi Osaka 2-6, 6-4, 6-1. The 18-year-old Mboko — who will jump from 85th to 25th in the world — won her first WTA Tour title and joined Faye Urban in 1969 and Bianca Andreescu in 2019 as the only Canadians to win the home event in the open era. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Congolese parents, Mboko grew up in Toronto. She upset top-seeded Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-4 to reach the quarterfinals. Osaka is winless since the 2021 Australian Open. The four-time Grand Slam champion gave birth to daughter Shai in July 2023.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Akshay Bhatia had a great finish to get his PGA Tour postseason off to a great start. Bhatia closed eagle-birdie-birdie for 62 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship. That's the low round of his PGA Tour career and gives him a one-shot lead over Tommy Fleetwood. Two shots back was a group that included Bud Cauley and Harry Hall. They're both on the bubble to be among the top 50 who advance in the FedEx Cup playoffs. Scottie Scheffler shot a 67 in his first tournament since winning the British Open. It was his 10th consecutive round in the 60s.

INTERLEAGUE Final Athletics 6 Washington 0

AMERICAN LEAGUE Final Seattle 4 Chicago White Sox 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE Final Pittsburgh 7 Cincinnati 0 Final Atlanta 8 Miami 6

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASON Final Baltimore 24 Indianapolis 16 Final Philadelphia 34 Cincinnati 27 Final Las Vegas 23 Seattle 23

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739459822020.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The WNBA is still struggling with a string of sex-toy disturbances. In the past week and a half, sex toys have been thrown on court during games in Atlanta on July 29, Chicago on Thursday night and Aug. 1 and Los Angeles on Aug. 5, with the most recent object nearly hitting Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham during Indiana’s game against the Sparks. Sex toys were also thrown at games in New York and Phoenix last Tuesday and at a second game in Atlanta last Friday, but didn’t reach the court. The distractions have created unexpected challenges for the league, the teams and the players, but also for arena security. Here’s what to know.PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Eagles continue to use the controversial tush push play, which remains legal despite attempts to ban it. Even with key players like Jalen Hurts sitting out the preseason opener against Cincinnati, the Eagles used the play successfully. Backup quarterback Tanner McKee scored on a fourth-and-1 in the first quarter. In May, NFL owners narrowly failed to pass a proposal to ban the play, keeping it in the rulebook. The proposal, supported by health and safety committees, fell short by just two votes. Commissioner Roger Goodell focused on encouraging discussion rather than taking a stance.EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Chargers tackle Rashawn Slater suffered a torn patellar tendon in practice Thursday and will miss the upcoming season. The team says he’ll undergo surgery and be placed on injured reserve. Slater got hurt less than two weeks after signing a multi-year contract extension last month. He has started all 52 career games at left tackle since being drafted 13th overall by the Chargers in 2021. Slater has been a key protector for quarterback Justin Herbert, allowing him to set several league-wide passing records.Jerry Jones is known for dragging contract negotiations so it’s no surprise Micah Parsons is just the latest Dallas Cowboys star player to have to wait on a new deal. Dak Prescott had to play on the franchise tag in 2020 after being unable to reach agreement on an extension, and he didn’t get another new deal last season until hours before the Week 1 opener. Jones eventually caved and made Prescott the highest-paid player in NFL history with an average of $60 million per year. CeeDee Lamb held out into late August last year following an All-Pro season before Jones gave him a four-year, $136 million deal.FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Tom Brady left his imprint all over the New England Patriots’ record books during his stellar two-decade run with the team. Now, he is set to become the first player in franchise history to be honored with a statue. The bronze statue will be unveiled Friday before New England’s exhibition game against the Washington Commanders. Brady will be on hand for the ceremony, which is scheduled to include an address to fans. Fans are being allowed into the plaza in front of Gillette Stadium four hours before the game to accommodate what is expected to be a large crowd.BALTIMORE (AP) — Indianapolis quarterback Anthony Richardson left the Colts' preseason game against Baltimore after taking a sack from David Ojabo. Richardson is competing with Daniel Jones for the starting quarterback position. After the sack, Richardson jogged to the sideline and was replaced by Jones. He'd dislocated the pinky on his throwing hand. Coach Shane Steichen also said rookie cornerback Justin Walley had a torn ACL. He didn't play in the game. The Ravens ended up beating the Colts 24-16.SEATTLE (AP) — Pete Carroll played a new role in familiar territory Thursday night, with his first preseason game as coach of the Las Vegas Raiders coming against the Seattle Seahawks. The former Seattle coach clearly felt at home before the 23-23 tie, talking with many Seahawks players on the field during warmups and generally being his outgoing, energetic self. Carroll spent 14 seasons in Seattle, going 137-89-1. He was at the helm for some of the most memorable moments in team history, including the 2013 Super Bowl championship with the dominant “Legion of Boom” defense, before the Seahawks parted ways with him after the 2023 season. Las Vegas starting quarterback Geno Smith also made a return to Seattle.NEW YORK (AP) — Jen Pawol is set to make history as the first female umpire in more than 150 years of Major League Baseball. She received the long-awaited call while in her hotel room in Nashville, Tennessee, and will debut Saturday during Miami's doubleheader at Atlanta. Pawol, who began her umpiring journey in high school, has worked more than 1,200 minor league games. She expressed gratitude for the support of her predecessors and colleagues. Pawol will join Chris Guccione's crew in Atlanta, where she expects to have about 30 family and friends in attendance.MONTREAL (AP) — Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko completed a dream run to the National Bank Open title Thursday night, overcoming a slow and swollen right wrist start to beat Japanese star Naomi Osaka 2-6, 6-4, 6-1. The 18-year-old Mboko — who will jump from 85th to 25th in the world — won her first WTA Tour title and joined Faye Urban in 1969 and Bianca Andreescu in 2019 as the only Canadians to win the home event in the open era. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Congolese parents, Mboko grew up in Toronto. She upset top-seeded Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-4 to reach the quarterfinals. Osaka is winless since the 2021 Australian Open. The four-time Grand Slam champion gave birth to daughter Shai in July 2023.MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Akshay Bhatia had a great finish to get his PGA Tour postseason off to a great start. Bhatia closed eagle-birdie-birdie for 62 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship. That's the low round of his PGA Tour career and gives him a one-shot lead over Tommy Fleetwood. Two shots back was a group that included Bud Cauley and Harry Hall. They're both on the bubble to be among the top 50 who advance in the FedEx Cup playoffs. Scottie Scheffler shot a 67 in his first tournament since winning the British Open. It was his 10th consecutive round in the 60s.FinalsINTERLEAGUE Final Athletics 6 Washington 0AMERICAN LEAGUE Final Seattle 4 Chicago White Sox 3NATIONAL LEAGUE Final Pittsburgh 7 Cincinnati 0 Final Atlanta 8 Miami 6NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASON Final Baltimore 24 Indianapolis 16 Final Philadelphia 34 Cincinnati 27 Final Las Vegas 23 Seattle 23

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;Jen Pawol&nbsp;is set to become the first woman to umpire in Major League Baseball when she works games this weekend between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves.

Pawol will work the bases in Saturday’s doubleheader at Truist Park and the plate on Sunday, MLB told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

“This historic accomplishment in baseball is a reflection of Jen’s hard work, dedication and love of the game,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “She has earned this opportunity, and we are proud of the strong example she has set, particularly for all the women and young girls who aspire to roles on the field.”

Pawol, a 48-year-old from New Jersey,&nbsp;worked spring training games&nbsp;in 2024 and this year. She will become the fifth umpire to debut this year.

“Baseball’s done a great job of being completely inclusive,” Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "I’ll be watching. It’s good for the game.”

MLB’s move comes 28 years after the gender barrier for game officials was broken in the NBA, 10 years after the NFL hired its first full-time female official and three years after the men’s soccer World Cup employed a female referee. The NHL still has not had any women as on-ice officials.

"I think if she is a good enough umpire, obviously she deserves to be here,” Toronto pitcher Kevin Gausman said.

Pawol in 2024 became the first woman to umpire big league spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007. Cortesio spent nine years in the minor leagues, including the last five in the Double-A Southern League, then was released after the 2007 season.

“We had seen her in spring training a lot," Philadelphia Phillies star Trea Turner said. “I don’t know much about her or statistics or anything like that, but if she’s doing a great job, I love seeing the opportunity for her, and I’m happy for her. I talked to her a little bit in spring training and she seems like a great person and I wish her all the best.”

Pawol was an all-state softball and soccer player in New Jersey for three seasons in each sport at West Milford High School. She went to Hofstra on a softball scholarship and became a three-time all-conference pick and was on the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team in 2001.

Pawol got a master’s degree and was living in the Binghamton area of New York and taking teacher certification classes at Elmira College while still playing on the side.

“I wasn’t really satisfied,” she said last year. “Coming off of a huge competitive career, just playing locally, I wasn’t getting my fix. And I remember looking at the umpire and being like, I think that’s it. I got to go for that.”

After umpiring NCAA softball from 2010-16, she attended an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015, was invited to the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Florida, and was offered a job in the Gulf Coast League in 2016. She's been working in the minor leagues since, including for the&nbsp;2023 Triple-A championship game.

Violet Palmer became the NBA’s first female referee when she worked Dallas’ opener at Vancouver on Oct. 31, 1997.&nbsp;Shannon Eastin&nbsp;became the NFL's first female on-field official on Sept. 9, 2012, for San Diego's game at St. Louis as a replacement when regular officials were locked out, and&nbsp;Sarah Thomas was the NFL's first regular female on-field official&nbsp;when she served as line judge for Kansas City’s game at Houston on Sept. 13, 2015.

Stéphanie Frappart of France became the&nbsp;first woman to referee a men’s World Cup game&nbsp;when she worked Germany’s 4-2 group stage win over Costa Rica on Dec. 1, 2022, and&nbsp;Rebecca Welch became the first to referee in England’s Premier League&nbsp;when she officiated Burnley’s 2-0 win at Fulham on Dec. 23, 2023.

MLB has 76 full-time staff umpires and uses fill-ins on crews for openings created by injuries and vacations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754573365335.jpeg" alt="Umpire Jen Pawol takes her position during the first inning of a spring training baseball game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals Monday, March 4, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)" />
 <figcaption>Umpire Jen Pawol takes her position during the first inning of a spring training baseball game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals Monday, March 4, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;Jen Pawol&nbsp;is set to become the first woman to umpire in Major League Baseball when she works games this weekend between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves.Pawol will work the bases in Saturday’s doubleheader at Truist Park and the plate on Sunday, MLB told The Associated Press on Wednesday.“This historic accomplishment in baseball is a reflection of Jen’s hard work, dedication and love of the game,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “She has earned this opportunity, and we are proud of the strong example she has set, particularly for all the women and young girls who aspire to roles on the field.”Pawol, a 48-year-old from New Jersey,&nbsp;worked spring training games&nbsp;in 2024 and this year. She will become the fifth umpire to debut this year.“Baseball’s done a great job of being completely inclusive,” Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "I’ll be watching. It’s good for the game.”MLB’s move comes 28 years after the gender barrier for game officials was broken in the NBA, 10 years after the NFL hired its first full-time female official and three years after the men’s soccer World Cup employed a female referee. The NHL still has not had any women as on-ice officials."I think if she is a good enough umpire, obviously she deserves to be here,” Toronto pitcher Kevin Gausman said.Pawol in 2024 became the first woman to umpire big league spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007. Cortesio spent nine years in the minor leagues, including the last five in the Double-A Southern League, then was released after the 2007 season.“We had seen her in spring training a lot," Philadelphia Phillies star Trea Turner said. “I don’t know much about her or statistics or anything like that, but if she’s doing a great job, I love seeing the opportunity for her, and I’m happy for her. I talked to her a little bit in spring training and she seems like a great person and I wish her all the best.”Pawol was an all-state softball and soccer player in New Jersey for three seasons in each sport at West Milford High School. She went to Hofstra on a softball scholarship and became a three-time all-conference pick and was on the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team in 2001.Pawol got a master’s degree and was living in the Binghamton area of New York and taking teacher certification classes at Elmira College while still playing on the side.“I wasn’t really satisfied,” she said last year. “Coming off of a huge competitive career, just playing locally, I wasn’t getting my fix. And I remember looking at the umpire and being like, I think that’s it. I got to go for that.”After umpiring NCAA softball from 2010-16, she attended an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015, was invited to the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Florida, and was offered a job in the Gulf Coast League in 2016. She's been working in the minor leagues since, including for the&nbsp;2023 Triple-A championship game.Violet Palmer became the NBA’s first female referee when she worked Dallas’ opener at Vancouver on Oct. 31, 1997.&nbsp;Shannon Eastin&nbsp;became the NFL's first female on-field official on Sept. 9, 2012, for San Diego's game at St. Louis as a replacement when regular officials were locked out, and&nbsp;Sarah Thomas was the NFL's first regular female on-field official&nbsp;when she served as line judge for Kansas City’s game at Houston on Sept. 13, 2015.Stéphanie Frappart of France became the&nbsp;first woman to referee a men’s World Cup game&nbsp;when she worked Germany’s 4-2 group stage win over Costa Rica on Dec. 1, 2022, and&nbsp;Rebecca Welch became the first to referee in England’s Premier League&nbsp;when she officiated Burnley’s 2-0 win at Fulham on Dec. 23, 2023.MLB has 76 full-time staff umpires and uses fill-ins on crews for openings created by injuries and vacations.

MLB is calling up its first female umpire, promoting Jen Pawol for Saturday's Marlins-Braves game

KUAthletics.com The DeBruce name is well known across the University of Kansas. Jayhawks and sports fans from around the world have visited the DeBruce Center, housing Dr. James Naismith's original rules of basketball and countless others have benefited from the family's generous support for the KU Cancer Center and KU Alzheimer's and dementia research.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now, the DeBruce name will forever be linked with KU Football and the future of the university. Proud alums Paul DeBruce and Linda DeBruce have provided a $25 million gift in support of the Gateway District and the overhaul of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, which are transforming the area at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Gateway District will be a powerful new front door to the university, welcoming Jayhawk students, alumni and fans as well as new recruits and visitors from Kansas and far beyond. The transformed stadium with enhanced game-day fan experiences will be anchored by a dynamic conference center and other commerce and entertainment facilities. The area will be energized year-round, attracting visitors, providing jobs in Lawrence and driving economic growth across the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754572975231.jpeg" alt="KUAthletics.com" />
 <figcaption>KUAthletics.com</figcaption>
 </figure>KUAthletics.com The DeBruce name is well known across the University of Kansas. Jayhawks and sports fans from around the world have visited the DeBruce Center, housing Dr. James Naismith's original rules of basketball and countless others have benefited from the family's generous support for the KU Cancer Center and KU Alzheimer's and dementia research.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, the DeBruce name will forever be linked with KU Football and the future of the university. Proud alums Paul DeBruce and Linda DeBruce have provided a $25 million gift in support of the Gateway District and the overhaul of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, which are transforming the area at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Gateway District will be a powerful new front door to the university, welcoming Jayhawk students, alumni and fans as well as new recruits and visitors from Kansas and far beyond. The transformed stadium with enhanced game-day fan experiences will be anchored by a dynamic conference center and other commerce and entertainment facilities. The area will be energized year-round, attracting visitors, providing jobs in Lawrence and driving economic growth across the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Paul and Linda are remarkable leaders, inspiring philanthropists and proud Jayhawks, who leapt at the opportunity to be a part of this transformational project," said KU Director of Athletics&nbsp;Travis Goff. "We are in awe of all that the DeBruces have done for Kansas Athletics and are so grateful that they are rising to the occasion at this critical moment. The Gateway District and the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will be a landmark destination for generations to come thanks in large part to their vision and generosity."&nbsp;&nbsp;In recognition of the couple's generosity, a premium hospitality space at the stadium has been named the Paul and Linda DeBruce Jayhawk Club, which will offer hospitality on game days and provide student-athletes dining services on non-game days.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We appreciate the strong educational foundation KU provided to us and the great friends and memories we've made at KU games throughout the years," said Paul DeBruce. "We're proud to support a project with impact of this magnitude."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"KU Athletics keeps Jayhawks connected to the university," said Linda DeBruce. "It truly is the 'Gateway,' so this project is aptly named."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The couple are proud KU graduates with deep ties to the university. Paul earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. Linda earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education and continued at KU for graduate school, earning two master's degrees. She was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority and a KU cheerleader.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just a few years after graduation, Paul became an entrepreneur, founding DeBruce Grain, Inc., an international agricultural and grain-trading firm that he started as a one-man operation and then expanded to 75 locations. He sold the business in 2010 after a long, successful tenure leading the company.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A passion for empowering others through opportunities and their own humble beginnings drive the couple's philanthropic work. The DeBruce Foundation has supported more than 90 non-profit organizations from the arts to zoos and everything in between, including civic causes, higher education and social services.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Paul and Linda are also known for giving back through service to communities and organizations. Paul currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the&nbsp;Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art&nbsp;and formerly was Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Previous board service included the Civic Council of Kansas City, the American Royal, Ozanam Home for Boys and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Linda, a former educator and entrepreneur, has been an important community catalyst and leader for decades, advocating for education and the arts. Along with her oldest daughter, she has led an international micro-lending program, and, like her husband, serves on multiple boards. She currently serves on the Advocacy Board at the University of Kansas Medical Center, the Board of Directors of the DeBruce Foundation and the Advisory Board of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, in Venice, Italy. &nbsp;&nbsp;"We're so grateful for the DeBruce family's generosity and continued legacy of loyal support for KU," said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "This incredible gift is an investment not just in the Gateway District but in our university, our students and the state of Kansas."&nbsp;&nbsp;