By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info

Following a month away from competition, the Barton Community College men's golf team returned to the links this week in wrapping up its fall schedule Tuesday with a 6th place finish at the Carmichael Cup held at Salina's Municipal Golf Course.

In a windy two days of competition, the Cougars got off to a rough Monday morning round with a 313 to sit in 7th place of the nine team field. Firing back with an afternoon 301 card to move up a slot, the Cougars shot the final round's fourth best score of 299 in finishing one-stroke out of 4th place overall at 73-over 313.

Barton also had a second team of entries that finished 8th in the field at 114-over 954 on rounds of 322, 315, and 317.

A trio of Cougars finished inside the 55-man field, being led by the 3rd place finish from Axel Bolander at 11-over 221. Carding a 78 and 73 on Monday, Bolander made a final round charge on the day's second best score of even par 70 to jump seven spots up the leaderboard.

Martin Chevallier, who was on Barton's "B" team of entrants, opened the tournament tied for 2nd with a 2-over par 72 before rounds of 76 and 74 slipped the freshman into a 5th place tie one stroke behind Bolander at 12-over 222.

Kaleb Lambert gave the Cougars their third spot in the top ten, stringing rounds of 77-74-75 to finish tied for 10th at 15-over 225.

The Cougars will now spend the off-season in preparation for the spring schedule slated to begin in March.

T-23rd Simon Strandberg +20, 230 (79-76-75)

37th Worathan Thammachokecharoen +32, 242 (81-82-79)

T-38th Tanapoom Kaewjoey +33, 243 (80-78-85)

T-5th Martin Chevallier +12, 222 (72-76-74)

T-26th Anthony Arriola +23, 233 (76-75-82)

T-41st Thantup Saengvut +36, 246 (85-81-80)

49th Easton Fitzpatrick +51, 261 (89-86-86)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698321329493.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoFollowing a month away from competition, the Barton Community College men's golf team returned to the links this week in wrapping up its fall schedule Tuesday with a 6th place finish at the Carmichael Cup held at Salina's Municipal Golf Course.In a windy two days of competition, the Cougars got off to a rough Monday morning round with a 313 to sit in 7th place of the nine team field. Firing back with an afternoon 301 card to move up a slot, the Cougars shot the final round's fourth best score of 299 in finishing one-stroke out of 4th place overall at 73-over 313.Barton also had a second team of entries that finished 8th in the field at 114-over 954 on rounds of 322, 315, and 317.A trio of Cougars finished inside the 55-man field, being led by the 3rd place finish from Axel Bolander at 11-over 221. Carding a 78 and 73 on Monday, Bolander made a final round charge on the day's second best score of even par 70 to jump seven spots up the leaderboard.Martin Chevallier, who was on Barton's "B" team of entrants, opened the tournament tied for 2nd with a 2-over par 72 before rounds of 76 and 74 slipped the freshman into a 5th place tie one stroke behind Bolander at 12-over 222.Kaleb Lambert gave the Cougars their third spot in the top ten, stringing rounds of 77-74-75 to finish tied for 10th at 15-over 225.The Cougars will now spend the off-season in preparation for the spring schedule slated to begin in March.Team "A" scores and standings:T-3rd Axel Bolander +11, 221 (78-73-70)T-10th Kaleb Lambert +15, 225 (77-74-75)T-23rd Simon Strandberg +20, 230 (79-76-75)37th Worathan Thammachokecharoen +32, 242 (81-82-79)T-38th Tanapoom Kaewjoey +33, 243 (80-78-85)Team "B" scores and standings:T-5th Martin Chevallier +12, 222 (72-76-74)T-26th Anthony Arriola +23, 233 (76-75-82)T-41st Thantup Saengvut +36, 246 (85-81-80)47th Keegan O'Shea +45, 255 (91-83-81)49th Easton Fitzpatrick +51, 261 (89-86-86)

Barton men's golf 6th at Carmichael Cup in wrapping up fall schedule

It took five sets again and a season low offensive efficiency to knock off the 19th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team as the Cougars failed to hold a two set advantage in falling 3-2 at Colby Community College.

A reversal of last Saturday's being down 2-0 and having its comeback fall short, Wednesday evening at the Colby Event Center saw the Cougars the one jumping out to the lead winning 26-24 and 25-18.

Colby turned the tide in the third behind a 10-1 stretch to ride out a 25-18 victory before methodically pulling away for another 25-18 win to force a deciding set.

Barton's 4-0 run erased an early final frame deficit in claiming a 7-6 lead but was quickly flip-flopped on two straight home team tallies. The Cougars again grabbed the lead at 9-8 and again at 10-9 but four straight by Colby in forcing a Barton timeout did little to halt the momentum as the Trojans added two more points to close the match out on a 6-0 run for the 15-10 victory.

Suffering its second straight five set loss after winning the previous twelve matches, Barton slips to 12-3 in conference play and 23-5 overall. Snapping Barton's seven match win streak in the series, Colby made strides in hopes of climbing up the standings to a possible two-seed for the upcoming Region VI Tournament by improving to 10-5 and 18-9 on the season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698317667583.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoIt took five sets again and a season low offensive efficiency to knock off the 19th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team as the Cougars failed to hold a two set advantage in falling 3-2 at Colby Community College.A reversal of last Saturday's being down 2-0 and having its comeback fall short, Wednesday evening at the Colby Event Center saw the Cougars the one jumping out to the lead winning 26-24 and 25-18.Colby turned the tide in the third behind a 10-1 stretch to ride out a 25-18 victory before methodically pulling away for another 25-18 win to force a deciding set.Barton's 4-0 run erased an early final frame deficit in claiming a 7-6 lead but was quickly flip-flopped on two straight home team tallies. The Cougars again grabbed the lead at 9-8 and again at 10-9 but four straight by Colby in forcing a Barton timeout did little to halt the momentum as the Trojans added two more points to close the match out on a 6-0 run for the 15-10 victory.Suffering its second straight five set loss after winning the previous twelve matches, Barton slips to 12-3 in conference play and 23-5 overall. Snapping Barton's seven match win streak in the series, Colby made strides in hopes of climbing up the standings to a possible two-seed for the upcoming Region VI Tournament by improving to 10-5 and 18-9 on the season.

Lady Cougars fall in 5-sets at Colby

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — No. 6 Oklahoma has already beaten Texas in what should have been the hardest game on its schedule, yet the Sooners' great escape last week against UCF served notice that not everything is going to be easy the rest of the way.

Especially with Kansas starting off four consecutive games against teams with winning records — three of them on the road.

“It's going to help us stay disciplined all week,” Sooners linebacker Dasan McCullough said of the 31-29 win over the Knights, when they needed to repel a 2-point conversion attempt in the final 2 minutes to preserve the margin of victory.

“We thought we were disciplined with them during last week,” McCullough said, “and come game day, obviously not.”

The Sooners (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) have plenty of reasons to overlook the Jayhawks. They've won 18 straight in the series, with their last loss coming during the 1997 season, and they rolled to a 52-42 victory a year ago in a game that wasn't that close.

Yet the Jayhawks (5-2, 2-2) are coming off a bye. It's Homecoming. And setting up the action will be Fox, which is bringing its Big Noon Kickoff pregame show to town with host Rob Stone and analysts Urban Meyer, Brady Quinn and Matt Leinart.

All of that attention is proof that these aren't the same old Jayhawks that were routinely thrashed by Oklahoma over the years, but an ascending program under third-year coach Lance Leipold that has started to gain some national recognition.

“It's another great opportunity for us to show the progress of our program. Show what this group is all about, where we are heading,” Leipold said. “A lot of wins there, a lot of great opportunities for our program, our athletic department and university."

While the Sooners are coming off a humbling win over UCF, the Jayhawks headed into their bye smarting from a 39-32 loss at Oklahoma State, when they led late in the fourth quarter and surrendered nine points in the final 2:33 of regulation. They played that game once again without quarterback Jalon Daniels, whose back injury could sideline him this week, too.

That doesn't mean Oklahoma is taking it easy. Especially after last week.

“I have a lot of respect for what the Kansas program is today, the transformation that has taken place under Coach Leipold and his staff,” said Sooners coach Brent Venables, who was raised in Salina, Kansas, and has many ties to the state. “What a great example of development, and great schemes to put their people in position to be successful.”

Jason Bean is expected to start against for Kansas, and he will be facing an Oklahoma defense that allowed UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee to throw for 248 yards and account for three touchdowns last week. Bean threw for 410 yards and five TDs with two interceptions in the Jayhawks' loss to Oklahoma State.

Oklahoma wide receiver Nic Anderson was the Big 12 newcomer of the week after catching five passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns against the Knights. That gave him 16 catches for 387 yards with half of those catches going for scores.

There might be no more important player when it comes to slowing down Oklahoma's fast-paced offense than Kansas safety Kenny Logan Jr.. The veteran acts as the quarterback of the defense, albeit one who makes a bunch of tackles. He has 336 for his career, the sixth-most among active players in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

While the Sooners get plenty of deserved credit for their uptempo pace, the Jayhawks actually field one of the most productive offenses in the country. They are averaging 7.2 yards per play, which is second in the Big 12 and sixth in the FBS, and a big part of that is Devin Neal. He is fourth among Power Five programs with an average of 7.3 yards per carry, and that puts him on pace to break the school record for a career with a minimum of 150 carries held by Gale Sayers.

Oklahoma running back Gavin Sawchuck made a statement for playing time against UCF, running 10 times for 63 yards and a touchdown in his most extensive action. Marcus Major is still the lead back with 308 yards rushing and a score this season, but his 3.9 yards per carry are modest enough to give Oklahoma running backs coach DeMarco Murray reason to think.

“DeMarco is the CEO of his position,” Venables said. “I'm not sure if I've ever had a head coach tell me who I can start and who I can't as long as everyone is in good standing. That's the position coach. That's why you pay him.”

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — No. 6 Oklahoma has already beaten Texas in what should have been the hardest game on its schedule, yet the Sooners' great escape last week against UCF served notice that not everything is going to be easy the rest of the way.Especially with Kansas starting off four consecutive games against teams with winning records — three of them on the road.“It's going to help us stay disciplined all week,” Sooners linebacker Dasan McCullough said of the 31-29 win over the Knights, when they needed to repel a 2-point conversion attempt in the final 2 minutes to preserve the margin of victory.“We thought we were disciplined with them during last week,” McCullough said, “and come game day, obviously not.”The Sooners (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) have plenty of reasons to overlook the Jayhawks. They've won 18 straight in the series, with their last loss coming during the 1997 season, and they rolled to a 52-42 victory a year ago in a game that wasn't that close.Yet the Jayhawks (5-2, 2-2) are coming off a bye. It's Homecoming. And setting up the action will be Fox, which is bringing its Big Noon Kickoff pregame show to town with host Rob Stone and analysts Urban Meyer, Brady Quinn and Matt Leinart.All of that attention is proof that these aren't the same old Jayhawks that were routinely thrashed by Oklahoma over the years, but an ascending program under third-year coach Lance Leipold that has started to gain some national recognition.“It's another great opportunity for us to show the progress of our program. Show what this group is all about, where we are heading,” Leipold said. “A lot of wins there, a lot of great opportunities for our program, our athletic department and university."A win on the field would cap it all off.While the Sooners are coming off a humbling win over UCF, the Jayhawks headed into their bye smarting from a 39-32 loss at Oklahoma State, when they led late in the fourth quarter and surrendered nine points in the final 2:33 of regulation. They played that game once again without quarterback Jalon Daniels, whose back injury could sideline him this week, too.That doesn't mean Oklahoma is taking it easy. Especially after last week.“I have a lot of respect for what the Kansas program is today, the transformation that has taken place under Coach Leipold and his staff,” said Sooners coach Brent Venables, who was raised in Salina, Kansas, and has many ties to the state. “What a great example of development, and great schemes to put their people in position to be successful.”SPILL THE BEAN(S)Jason Bean is expected to start against for Kansas, and he will be facing an Oklahoma defense that allowed UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee to throw for 248 yards and account for three touchdowns last week. Bean threw for 410 yards and five TDs with two interceptions in the Jayhawks' loss to Oklahoma State.NIC OF TIMEOklahoma wide receiver Nic Anderson was the Big 12 newcomer of the week after catching five passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns against the Knights. That gave him 16 catches for 387 yards with half of those catches going for scores.LOGAN'S RUNThere might be no more important player when it comes to slowing down Oklahoma's fast-paced offense than Kansas safety Kenny Logan Jr.. The veteran acts as the quarterback of the defense, albeit one who makes a bunch of tackles. He has 336 for his career, the sixth-most among active players in the Football Bowl Subdivision.ENERGY EFFICIENCYWhile the Sooners get plenty of deserved credit for their uptempo pace, the Jayhawks actually field one of the most productive offenses in the country. They are averaging 7.2 yards per play, which is second in the Big 12 and sixth in the FBS, and a big part of that is Devin Neal. He is fourth among Power Five programs with an average of 7.3 yards per carry, and that puts him on pace to break the school record for a career with a minimum of 150 carries held by Gale Sayers.FRESHMAN IN FOCUSOklahoma running back Gavin Sawchuck made a statement for playing time against UCF, running 10 times for 63 yards and a touchdown in his most extensive action. Marcus Major is still the lead back with 308 yards rushing and a score this season, but his 3.9 yards per carry are modest enough to give Oklahoma running backs coach DeMarco Murray reason to think.“DeMarco is the CEO of his position,” Venables said. “I'm not sure if I've ever had a head coach tell me who I can start and who I can't as long as everyone is in good standing. That's the position coach. That's why you pay him.”

No. 6 Oklahoma wary of upset possibilities as it heads to Kansas for a Big 12 showdown

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Chiefs’ Nick Bolton had surgery in Los Angeles on his
fractured wrist this week, though coach Andy Reid said Wednesday he
was not sure whether the linebacker would land on injured reserve or
how long he might be out. Reid said there was no need during
Tuesday's procedure for metal to be put into the wrist to support it,
and that could help Bolton return to the field quicker. He already
has missed three games this season because of an ankle injury. Bolton
was hurt making a tackle in last Sunday's win over the Chargers. The
Chiefs visit the Broncos on Sunday.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.
(AP) — Denver Broncos star safety Justin Simmons gave a spirited
defense of fellow safety Kareem Jackson after the veteran's four-game
suspension for an illegal hit on a Green Bay tight end was reduced to
two games. Simmons said while he agrees with the NFL's crackdown on
head hits, this one in particular looked bad but was actually a
clean, shoulder-to-shoulder hit. Simmons also took issue with the
league's letter announcing the original four-game suspension which
accused Jackson of deliberately choosing not to make a clean tackle
on the hit in question.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP)
— No. 6 Oklahoma learned not to overlook anybody when it needed to
stop a 2-point conversion inside of 2 minutes last week to preserve a
31-29 victory over UCF. The Sooners do not face another ranked team
this season, but they nevertheless have a tough road with four
straight coming up against teams with winning records, and two of
them on the road. It starts with a trip to Kansas on Saturday. The
Jayhawks had a week off after letting a fourth-quarter lead slip away
against Oklahoma State. They are still expected to be without
quarterback Jalon Daniels, who has been sidelined by a bad back much
of the season.

UNDATED (AP) — No.
8 Oregon at No. 13 Utah is the game of the week in college football.
Utah has won two straight since its loss to Oregon State and the
Ducks followed their loss to Washington with a win over Washington
State. No. 20 Duke is at No. 18 Louisville in the only other Top 25
matchup. UNLV visits Fresno State for an under-the-radar game. The
Rebels 6-1 for the first time since 1984. Syracuse’s Dino Babers is
on the hot seat. He started 4-0 but his team was outscored 112-24 in
losses to Clemson, North Carolina and Florida State.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP)
— Kansas State coach Jerome Tang wants his team to take the next
step toward greatness this season after leading the Wildcats to the
Elite Eight in his first season as head coach. In fact, Tang visited
with Colorado football coach Deion Sanders not long ago to get some
tips on roster and staff management. The Wildcats lost Keyontae
Johnson and Markquis Nowell to the NBA but have brought in two touted
transfers in Tylor Perry from North Texas and Arthur Kaluma from
Creighton They also return several key players.

HOUSTON (AP) —
Dusty Baker has retired as manager of the Houston Astros, ending an
illustrious 26-year career as a big league skipper highlighted by a
World Series win last season. Baker broke the news in an interview
with USA Today. Baker told the newspaper that he’d like to move
into an advisory role in baseball, either with the Astros or a team
closer to his Northern California home. He stepped down after his
fourth season with the Astros, who came one win shy of reaching the
World Series for a third straight year with a loss to the Rangers on
Monday night.

PHOENIX (AP) —
Some say the Arizona Diamondbacks are ahead of schedule, advancing
all the way to the World Series with a young roster that was supposed
to need a few more years of seasoning before hitting the sport’s
biggest stage. Manager Torey Lovullo and general manager Mike Hazen
have a different perspective. The two friends and colleagues have
navigated a difficult five years — both personally and
professionally — that have made the D-backs’ improbable run to
the Fall Classic even sweeter. Game 1 against the Texas Rangers in on
Friday night in Arlington, Texas.

ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — The Texas Rangers have played only four home games over the
past month, and lost all three in the AL Championship Series. Yet
they're getting ready to host Game 1 of the World Series against the
Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night. Texas has already matched a
postseason record by winning its first eight road games. But All-Star
catcher Jonah Heim says the Rangers love playing at Globe Life Field.
Texas and Arizona both had to win Games 6 and 7 of their respective
League Championship Series on the road to get to the World Series.
That was the first time that happened in both LCS matchups since
those series expanded to a best-of-seven format in 1985.

ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — Nathan Eovaldi will start Game 1 of the World Series for the
Rangers against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Texas manager Bruce Bochy
made the announcement Wednesday. It will be the first career World
Series start for Eovaldi, a Texas native who signed with the Rangers
last offseason. The veteran right-hander made three relief
appearances for the Boston Red Sox in the 2018 World Series. Eovaldi
is 4-0 with a 2.42 ERA in his four starts this postseason. He won the
AL Wild Card Series and AL Division Series clinchers for Texas, and
the must-win Game 6 in the ALCS against Houston on Sunday night. The
Diamondbacks had Wednesday off, a day after clinching the NL pennant.
They will start 17-game winner Zac Gallen in Game 1.

SAN ANTONIO (AP) —
The Victor Wembanyama era is underway in San Antonio. Wembanyama made
his NBA debut with the Spurs against the Dallas Mavericks and made an
immediate splash with the world watching. The No. 1 pick in the NBA
draft blocked a shot in the opening minute of the game and misfired
on a 3-point attempt from the top of the key. But Wembanyama found
his spot and scored his first NBA points with a 3-pointer — again
from near the top of the key — at the 8:25 mark of the first
quarter. He added another 3 later in the quarter. Slowed by foul
trouble, he broke loose for nine points in the fourth quarter and
finished with 15 points in a 126-119 loss. The debut of the
19-year-old from France forced the Spurs to sell standing-room only
tickets for their season opener.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696416123616.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Chiefs’ Nick Bolton had surgery in Los Angeles on his
fractured wrist this week, though coach Andy Reid said Wednesday he
was not sure whether the linebacker would land on injured reserve or
how long he might be out. Reid said there was no need during
Tuesday's procedure for metal to be put into the wrist to support it,
and that could help Bolton return to the field quicker. He already
has missed three games this season because of an ankle injury. Bolton
was hurt making a tackle in last Sunday's win over the Chargers. The
Chiefs visit the Broncos on Sunday.ENGLEWOOD, Colo.
(AP) — Denver Broncos star safety Justin Simmons gave a spirited
defense of fellow safety Kareem Jackson after the veteran's four-game
suspension for an illegal hit on a Green Bay tight end was reduced to
two games. Simmons said while he agrees with the NFL's crackdown on
head hits, this one in particular looked bad but was actually a
clean, shoulder-to-shoulder hit. Simmons also took issue with the
league's letter announcing the original four-game suspension which
accused Jackson of deliberately choosing not to make a clean tackle
on the hit in question.LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP)
— No. 6 Oklahoma learned not to overlook anybody when it needed to
stop a 2-point conversion inside of 2 minutes last week to preserve a
31-29 victory over UCF. The Sooners do not face another ranked team
this season, but they nevertheless have a tough road with four
straight coming up against teams with winning records, and two of
them on the road. It starts with a trip to Kansas on Saturday. The
Jayhawks had a week off after letting a fourth-quarter lead slip away
against Oklahoma State. They are still expected to be without
quarterback Jalon Daniels, who has been sidelined by a bad back much
of the season.UNDATED (AP) — No.
8 Oregon at No. 13 Utah is the game of the week in college football.
Utah has won two straight since its loss to Oregon State and the
Ducks followed their loss to Washington with a win over Washington
State. No. 20 Duke is at No. 18 Louisville in the only other Top 25
matchup. UNLV visits Fresno State for an under-the-radar game. The
Rebels 6-1 for the first time since 1984. Syracuse’s Dino Babers is
on the hot seat. He started 4-0 but his team was outscored 112-24 in
losses to Clemson, North Carolina and Florida State.MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP)
— Kansas State coach Jerome Tang wants his team to take the next
step toward greatness this season after leading the Wildcats to the
Elite Eight in his first season as head coach. In fact, Tang visited
with Colorado football coach Deion Sanders not long ago to get some
tips on roster and staff management. The Wildcats lost Keyontae
Johnson and Markquis Nowell to the NBA but have brought in two touted
transfers in Tylor Perry from North Texas and Arthur Kaluma from
Creighton They also return several key players.HOUSTON (AP) —
Dusty Baker has retired as manager of the Houston Astros, ending an
illustrious 26-year career as a big league skipper highlighted by a
World Series win last season. Baker broke the news in an interview
with USA Today. Baker told the newspaper that he’d like to move
into an advisory role in baseball, either with the Astros or a team
closer to his Northern California home. He stepped down after his
fourth season with the Astros, who came one win shy of reaching the
World Series for a third straight year with a loss to the Rangers on
Monday night.PHOENIX (AP) —
Some say the Arizona Diamondbacks are ahead of schedule, advancing
all the way to the World Series with a young roster that was supposed
to need a few more years of seasoning before hitting the sport’s
biggest stage. Manager Torey Lovullo and general manager Mike Hazen
have a different perspective. The two friends and colleagues have
navigated a difficult five years — both personally and
professionally — that have made the D-backs’ improbable run to
the Fall Classic even sweeter. Game 1 against the Texas Rangers in on
Friday night in Arlington, Texas.ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — The Texas Rangers have played only four home games over the
past month, and lost all three in the AL Championship Series. Yet
they're getting ready to host Game 1 of the World Series against the
Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night. Texas has already matched a
postseason record by winning its first eight road games. But All-Star
catcher Jonah Heim says the Rangers love playing at Globe Life Field.
Texas and Arizona both had to win Games 6 and 7 of their respective
League Championship Series on the road to get to the World Series.
That was the first time that happened in both LCS matchups since
those series expanded to a best-of-seven format in 1985.ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — Nathan Eovaldi will start Game 1 of the World Series for the
Rangers against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Texas manager Bruce Bochy
made the announcement Wednesday. It will be the first career World
Series start for Eovaldi, a Texas native who signed with the Rangers
last offseason. The veteran right-hander made three relief
appearances for the Boston Red Sox in the 2018 World Series. Eovaldi
is 4-0 with a 2.42 ERA in his four starts this postseason. He won the
AL Wild Card Series and AL Division Series clinchers for Texas, and
the must-win Game 6 in the ALCS against Houston on Sunday night. The
Diamondbacks had Wednesday off, a day after clinching the NL pennant.
They will start 17-game winner Zac Gallen in Game 1.SAN ANTONIO (AP) —
The Victor Wembanyama era is underway in San Antonio. Wembanyama made
his NBA debut with the Spurs against the Dallas Mavericks and made an
immediate splash with the world watching. The No. 1 pick in the NBA
draft blocked a shot in the opening minute of the game and misfired
on a 3-point attempt from the top of the key. But Wembanyama found
his spot and scored his first NBA points with a 3-pointer — again
from near the top of the key — at the 8:25 mark of the first
quarter. He added another 3 later in the quarter. Slowed by foul
trouble, he broke loose for nine points in the fourth quarter and
finished with 15 points in a 126-119 loss. The debut of the
19-year-old from France forced the Spurs to sell standing-room only
tickets for their season opener.WEDNESDAY SCORESNATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Indiana	143	Washington	120	Final	Orlando	116	Houston	86	Final	Charlotte	116	Atlanta	110	Final	Boston	108	New
York	104	Final	Toronto	97	Minnesota	94	Final	Miami	103	Detroit	102	Final	Cleveland	114	Brooklyn	113	Final	Oklahoma
City	124	Chicago	104	Final	New
Orleans	111	Memphis	104	Final	Sacramento	130	Utah	114	Final	Dallas	126	San
Antonio	119	Final	L.A.
Clippers	123	Portland	111	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUE

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

1) Following a big 41-3 win over TCU last week, K-State will play its second home game in as many weeks when the Houston Cougars visit Manhattan for Homecoming. The game will kick at 11 a.m. from inside a sold-out Bill Snyder Family Stadium and be televised nationally on ESPN2 with Lowell Galindo (play-by-play), Kirk Morrison (analyst) and Stormy Buonantony (sidelines) calling the action.

2) The Cats currently rank 13th nationally and second in the Big 12 by scoring 36.9 points per game while also checking in at No. 3 in rushing at 232.7 yards per game – which also ranks tops among Power 5 programs. Since Collin Klein took over as offensive coordinator for the 2021 Texas Bowl, K-State is averaging 34.2 points per game on offense, which includes five games this season of 38 or more points.

3) Senior Will Howard and freshman Avery Johnson both directed a K-State offense last week that produced 41 points and 587 total yards, including 406 yards in the first half. Howard threw for three touchdowns for the third time this season, while, the week prior at Texas Tech, Johnson tied a school record with five rushing touchdowns en route to Big 12 Newcomer of the Week honors.

4) Last week against TCU, the K-State defense limited a potent Horned Frog offense to just three points and 300 yards, with 68 of those yards coming on the last drive of the game. Coming into the contest, TCU was averaging 33.1 points per game and 488.4 yards of offense. Over the last two seasons, K-State has held 13 of its 14 Big 12 opponents under its season scoring averaging entering the game.

5) The K-State defense enters the week ranked in the top 25 nationally in third down defense (15th – 30.0%), scoring defense (19th - 18.1 ppg), rushing defense (23rd – 108.9 yds/gm) and tackles for loss (24th – 6.9 TFLs per game). Since the Cats switched to a 3-3-5 alignment to start the 2021 season, K-State has allowed just 20.8 points per game to rank 20th in the nation and second in the Big 12.

232.7 – Average rushing yards this season by K-State, which ranks third nationally and tops among Power 5 programs.

75.4 – Career winning % by Chris Klieman, which ranks fourth nationally among FBS coaches with at least 10 years experience.

43.7 – Percentage of offensive drives this season that have ended in touchdowns, a figure that leads the Big 12.

30.0 – Percentage of red zone touchdowns allowed by K-State, the second lowest in the nation.

0 – Number of fumbles lost this season as the Wildcats are one of only four remaining FBS teams to not yet lose a fumble.

• K-State dominated in all three phases in a 41-3 win over TCU last week. Quarterbacks Will Howard and Avery Johnson both engineered a Wildcat offense that generated 406 total yards in the first half and 587 for the game. The Cats ran for a season-high 343 yards on the ground as nine different Wildcats carried the ball, the most ball carries since nine players also logged a rush at Kansas in 2021.

• Defensively, the Cats kept the Horned Frogs out of the endzone for the first time this season and held them to three total points. TCU averaged more than 33 points per game entering the contest.

• The week prior, K-State picked up a road win in Lubbock, a 38-21 victory for its eighth-straight win in the series as they rushed for 272 yards and forced three Red Raider turnovers.

• Johnson ran for five scores, while running back Treshaun Ward had a big night with 118 yards on 15 carries.

• Defensively, Kobe Savage picked off two Tech passes en route to Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors, and the defense held Red Raider running back Tahj Brooks under 100 yards for the first time in a month.

• Following a four-week hiatus from home games, K-State is hosting its second-straight game at Bill Snyder Family Stadium when Houston comes to town Saturday.

• The Wildcats are 37-19 in home Big 12 contests since 2011 and have recorded three or more Big 12 homes wins eight times over that 12-plus year stretch.

• Kansas State defeated UCF earlier this season in Manhattan and will now host its second new Big 12 member of the season when the Houston Cougars visit Manhattan.

• K-State and Houston have never met on the football field, but the Wildcats are familiar with head coach Dana Holgerson from his days leading the West Virginia program.

• K-State has a total of 218 victories since 1996, which ranks 23rd nationally.

• Among current Big 12 teams, the Wildcats rank fifth behind Oklahoma (269), Texas (235), BYU (228) and TCU (228).

• Over the last 13 seasons, the Wildcats have won at least seven games 11 times.

• Kansas State has a strong history of being in the postseason, having advanced to a bowl game 23 times since 1993, including 11 times in the last 13 years.

• K-State's 23 bowl trips since 1993 are tied for fourth among current Big 12 teams.

• In an era when over 80 teams play in a bowl game each year, the Cats are one of just 19 Power 5 teams to play in a bowl game 11 times in the last 13 years.

• A win on Saturday against Houston will give K-State bowl eligibility for the fourth time in Chris Klieman's five years at the helm. The only time the Wildcats did not go to a bowl game was during the COVID-ravaged 2020 season.

• Kansas State has been one of the best Big 12 teams since the inception of the conference in 1996. The Wildcats are third with 136 conference victories, trailing only Oklahoma and Texas.

• The Wildcats are also third in the conference in winning percentage since non-divisional play began in 2011. They sit at 59.8% (67-45), trailing only Oklahoma (78.4%; 87-24) and Oklahoma State (65.2%; 73-39).

• During that stretch, the Wildcats are 37-19 (66.1%) at home in Big 12 play and 30-26 (53.6%) on the road.

• A proven winner with a championship history, Chris Klieman holds a 107-35 career record, as his 75.4% career winning percentage ranks fourth among current FBS coaches that have led programs for at least 10 seasons.

• Klieman, who is 35-22 since arriving at K-State prior to the 2019 season, is also one of just 14 current Power 5 head coaches with at least 100 wins.

• K-State is the nation's best in non-offensive touchdowns over the last 24 seasons as it has 129 since 1999, five more than the next closest team (Alabama – 124).

• Of the 129 non-offensive scores since 1999, 44 have been punt returns, 40 interception returns, 33 kickoff returns, 10 fumble returns and 2 missed/blocked field goal returns.

• Kansas State has scored at least 38 points in seven of its last nine regular-season contests dating back to last season, its most in a nine-game stretch since doing so seven times in 2003.

• Included in that stretch was a three-game streak of Big 12 regular-season games with at least 40 points, the longest by the Wildcats since 2012 when they had 55 points against both West Virginia and Texas Tech, and 44 points against Oklahoma State.

• Since Collin Klein started calling plays during the 2021 Texas Bowl, K-State's offense has averaged 34.2 points per game.

• The Cats currently rank 13th nationally and second in the Big 12 with 36.9 points per game this season, a figure that ranks sixth in school history.

• K-State is averaging 3.31 points per drive this season, a figure that also ranks first in the Big 12.

• The K-State defense switched from a four-man front to a 3-3-5 alignment in 2021, and the change has paid off.

• In the 34 games since the defensive switch, the Cats are allowing just 20.8 points per game, which ranks second in the Big 12 and 20th in the nation.

• The Wildcats surrendered just 21.0 points per game in 2021 and 21.9 points per game last year. It marked the first time K-State allowed less than 22.0 points per game in consecutive seasons since going 13-straight years from 1991 to 2003.

• K-State enters the week ranked 19th nationally and second in the Big 12 by allowing 18.1 points per game. The last time the Wildcats allowed under 20.0 points per game in a season was 2003 (16.3).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698252076225.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kickoff: 11 a.m.Location: Manhattan, Kan.Series: First MeetingTV: ESPN2 (watch)THE TOP 51) Following a big 41-3 win over TCU last week, K-State will play its second home game in as many weeks when the Houston Cougars visit Manhattan for Homecoming. The game will kick at 11 a.m. from inside a sold-out Bill Snyder Family Stadium and be televised nationally on ESPN2 with Lowell Galindo (play-by-play), Kirk Morrison (analyst) and Stormy Buonantony (sidelines) calling the action.2) The Cats currently rank 13th nationally and second in the Big 12 by scoring 36.9 points per game while also checking in at No. 3 in rushing at 232.7 yards per game – which also ranks tops among Power 5 programs. Since Collin Klein took over as offensive coordinator for the 2021 Texas Bowl, K-State is averaging 34.2 points per game on offense, which includes five games this season of 38 or more points.3) Senior Will Howard and freshman Avery Johnson both directed a K-State offense last week that produced 41 points and 587 total yards, including 406 yards in the first half. Howard threw for three touchdowns for the third time this season, while, the week prior at Texas Tech, Johnson tied a school record with five rushing touchdowns en route to Big 12 Newcomer of the Week honors.4) Last week against TCU, the K-State defense limited a potent Horned Frog offense to just three points and 300 yards, with 68 of those yards coming on the last drive of the game. Coming into the contest, TCU was averaging 33.1 points per game and 488.4 yards of offense. Over the last two seasons, K-State has held 13 of its 14 Big 12 opponents under its season scoring averaging entering the game.5) The K-State defense enters the week ranked in the top 25 nationally in third down defense (15th – 30.0%), scoring defense (19th - 18.1 ppg), rushing defense (23rd – 108.9 yds/gm) and tackles for loss (24th – 6.9 TFLs per game). Since the Cats switched to a 3-3-5 alignment to start the 2021 season, K-State has allowed just 20.8 points per game to rank 20th in the nation and second in the Big 12.STATISTICAL SPOTLIGHTS232.7 – Average rushing yards this season by K-State, which ranks third nationally and tops among Power 5 programs.75.4 – Career winning % by Chris Klieman, which ranks fourth nationally among FBS coaches with at least 10 years experience.43.7 – Percentage of offensive drives this season that have ended in touchdowns, a figure that leads the Big 12.30.0 – Percentage of red zone touchdowns allowed by K-State, the second lowest in the nation.0 – Number of fumbles lost this season as the Wildcats are one of only four remaining FBS teams to not yet lose a fumble.TEAM NOTESRECENT RECAP• K-State dominated in all three phases in a 41-3 win over TCU last week. Quarterbacks Will Howard and Avery Johnson both engineered a Wildcat offense that generated 406 total yards in the first half and 587 for the game. The Cats ran for a season-high 343 yards on the ground as nine different Wildcats carried the ball, the most ball carries since nine players also logged a rush at Kansas in 2021.• Defensively, the Cats kept the Horned Frogs out of the endzone for the first time this season and held them to three total points. TCU averaged more than 33 points per game entering the contest.• The week prior, K-State picked up a road win in Lubbock, a 38-21 victory for its eighth-straight win in the series as they rushed for 272 yards and forced three Red Raider turnovers.• Johnson ran for five scores, while running back Treshaun Ward had a big night with 118 yards on 15 carries.• Defensively, Kobe Savage picked off two Tech passes en route to Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors, and the defense held Red Raider running back Tahj Brooks under 100 yards for the first time in a month.BACK AT HOME IN THE BIG 12• Following a four-week hiatus from home games, K-State is hosting its second-straight game at Bill Snyder Family Stadium when Houston comes to town Saturday.• The Wildcats are 37-19 in home Big 12 contests since 2011 and have recorded three or more Big 12 homes wins eight times over that 12-plus year stretch.NEW BIG 12 MATCHUPS• Kansas State defeated UCF earlier this season in Manhattan and will now host its second new Big 12 member of the season when the Houston Cougars visit Manhattan.• K-State and Houston have never met on the football field, but the Wildcats are familiar with head coach Dana Holgerson from his days leading the West Virginia program.AMONG THE NATION'S BEST• K-State has a total of 218 victories since 1996, which ranks 23rd nationally.• Among current Big 12 teams, the Wildcats rank fifth behind Oklahoma (269), Texas (235), BYU (228) and TCU (228).• Over the last 13 seasons, the Wildcats have won at least seven games 11 times.POSTSEASON PROMINENCE• Kansas State has a strong history of being in the postseason, having advanced to a bowl game 23 times since 1993, including 11 times in the last 13 years.• K-State's 23 bowl trips since 1993 are tied for fourth among current Big 12 teams.• In an era when over 80 teams play in a bowl game each year, the Cats are one of just 19 Power 5 teams to play in a bowl game 11 times in the last 13 years.LOOKING FOR WIN #6• A win on Saturday against Houston will give K-State bowl eligibility for the fourth time in Chris Klieman's five years at the helm. The only time the Wildcats did not go to a bowl game was during the COVID-ravaged 2020 season.A WINNING TRADITION• Kansas State has been one of the best Big 12 teams since the inception of the conference in 1996. The Wildcats are third with 136 conference victories, trailing only Oklahoma and Texas.• The Wildcats are also third in the conference in winning percentage since non-divisional play began in 2011. They sit at 59.8% (67-45), trailing only Oklahoma (78.4%; 87-24) and Oklahoma State (65.2%; 73-39).• During that stretch, the Wildcats are 37-19 (66.1%) at home in Big 12 play and 30-26 (53.6%) on the road.A WINNING HISTORY• A proven winner with a championship history, Chris Klieman holds a 107-35 career record, as his 75.4% career winning percentage ranks fourth among current FBS coaches that have led programs for at least 10 seasons.• Klieman, who is 35-22 since arriving at K-State prior to the 2019 season, is also one of just 14 current Power 5 head coaches with at least 100 wins.CATS TOPS IN NON-OFFENSIVE TDs• K-State is the nation's best in non-offensive touchdowns over the last 24 seasons as it has 129 since 1999, five more than the next closest team (Alabama – 124).• Of the 129 non-offensive scores since 1999, 44 have been punt returns, 40 interception returns, 33 kickoff returns, 10 fumble returns and 2 missed/blocked field goal returns.OFFENSIVE NOTESSCORING SURGE• Kansas State has scored at least 38 points in seven of its last nine regular-season contests dating back to last season, its most in a nine-game stretch since doing so seven times in 2003.• Included in that stretch was a three-game streak of Big 12 regular-season games with at least 40 points, the longest by the Wildcats since 2012 when they had 55 points against both West Virginia and Texas Tech, and 44 points against Oklahoma State.• Since Collin Klein started calling plays during the 2021 Texas Bowl, K-State's offense has averaged 34.2 points per game.• The Cats currently rank 13th nationally and second in the Big 12 with 36.9 points per game this season, a figure that ranks sixth in school history.• K-State is averaging 3.31 points per drive this season, a figure that also ranks first in the Big 12.DEFENSIVE NOTESA BIG TURNAROUND• The K-State defense switched from a four-man front to a 3-3-5 alignment in 2021, and the change has paid off.• In the 34 games since the defensive switch, the Cats are allowing just 20.8 points per game, which ranks second in the Big 12 and 20th in the nation.• The Wildcats surrendered just 21.0 points per game in 2021 and 21.9 points per game last year. It marked the first time K-State allowed less than 22.0 points per game in consecutive seasons since going 13-straight years from 1991 to 2003.• K-State enters the week ranked 19th nationally and second in the Big 12 by allowing 18.1 points per game. The last time the Wildcats allowed under 20.0 points per game in a season was 2003 (16.3).

K-State Hosts Houston on Homecoming

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs' Nick Bolton had surgery in Los Angeles on his fractured wrist this week, though coach Andy Reid said Wednesday he was not sure whether the linebacker would land on injured reserve or how long he might be out.

Reid said there was no need during the procedure Tuesday for metal to be put into the wrist to support it, and that could help Bolton return to the field quicker. He already has missed three games this season because of an ankle injury.

“That was a positive going forward with him,” Reid said. “We just have to kind of check and see going forward.”

Bolton, a second-round pick in the 2021 draft, has become one of the league's best playmaking linebackers. He made 180 tackles with two sacks and had two interceptions last season.

He was hurt while making a tackle during the Chiefs' 31-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

The Chiefs signed former Chargers linebacker Drue Tranquill almost as an afterthought in free agency, but he has already proven to be indispensable. Tranquill got most of snaps during the three weeks Bolton was out with his ankle injury, and his intelligence and experience coupled with his natural athleticism have allowed him to take over as the quarterback of the defense.

Tranquill, who had 146 tackles for the Chargers last season, has 36 through the first seven weeks with Kansas City. He also has a sack in each of the past two games, including one against the Broncos — whom the Chiefs visit this Sunday.

“Drue has done a heck of a job coming in for Nick,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said. “Nick, he's been very vocal. He took that leadership role of getting everyone lined up. I think he's done a tremendous job in the amount of time he's had."

What also should help the Chiefs defense absorb the loss of Bolton is the return of pass rusher Charles Omenihu from his six-game suspension last week against Los Angeles. Omenihu had a sack and a pass deflection that led to an interception, and his ability to provide pressure off the edge allows Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to have more flexibility.

“I think our best game is ahead of us,” Jones said. “We're building chemistry across the defensive line, and having Charles in there, everyone being able to move around, I think it's a plus for our D-line.”

In other news, Reid said Justyn Ross would practice one day after t he 23-year-old wide receiver was charged with misdemeanor domestic battery and criminal damage to property and released after posting $2,500 bond.

Ross, who is due again in court on Dec. 4., has been a bit player for the defending Super Bowl champions this season. He has been active in their first seven games but has just three catches for 34 yards on the season.

“All situations are different, obviously,” Reid said. “The law enforcement part of it, you listen to what the real details went on, and then you keep open communication ” among general manager Brett Veach and other law enforcement officials.

“Other than that,” Reid said, “I really don't have any information for you other than what we have gathered.”

NOTES: WR Justin Watson returned to practice Wednesday. He hurt his elbow during the Chiefs' win over the Broncos in Week 6, and while the injury at first appeared to be significant, Watson could be back soon. He has 10 catches for 219 yards this season. ... QB Patrick Mahomes has said that he enjoys playing in the snow, and that could bode well for the Chiefs with a chance of it on Sunday in Denver. “I grew up in Texas. I only saw snow like, twice growing up,” Mahomes said. “I got accustomed to it in KC. I thought snow would be like rain where it gets a little slippery, where the snow actually makes it a little sticky. But at the end of the day, you just have to go out there and throw it and see what happens.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs' Nick Bolton had surgery in Los Angeles on his fractured wrist this week, though coach Andy Reid said Wednesday he was not sure whether the linebacker would land on injured reserve or how long he might be out.Reid said there was no need during the procedure Tuesday for metal to be put into the wrist to support it, and that could help Bolton return to the field quicker. He already has missed three games this season because of an ankle injury.“That was a positive going forward with him,” Reid said. “We just have to kind of check and see going forward.”Bolton, a second-round pick in the 2021 draft, has become one of the league's best playmaking linebackers. He made 180 tackles with two sacks and had two interceptions last season.He was hurt while making a tackle during the Chiefs' 31-17 win over the Chargers on Sunday.The Chiefs signed former Chargers linebacker Drue Tranquill almost as an afterthought in free agency, but he has already proven to be indispensable. Tranquill got most of snaps during the three weeks Bolton was out with his ankle injury, and his intelligence and experience coupled with his natural athleticism have allowed him to take over as the quarterback of the defense.Tranquill, who had 146 tackles for the Chargers last season, has 36 through the first seven weeks with Kansas City. He also has a sack in each of the past two games, including one against the Broncos — whom the Chiefs visit this Sunday.“Drue has done a heck of a job coming in for Nick,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said. “Nick, he's been very vocal. He took that leadership role of getting everyone lined up. I think he's done a tremendous job in the amount of time he's had."What also should help the Chiefs defense absorb the loss of Bolton is the return of pass rusher Charles Omenihu from his six-game suspension last week against Los Angeles. Omenihu had a sack and a pass deflection that led to an interception, and his ability to provide pressure off the edge allows Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to have more flexibility.“I think our best game is ahead of us,” Jones said. “We're building chemistry across the defensive line, and having Charles in there, everyone being able to move around, I think it's a plus for our D-line.”In other news, Reid said Justyn Ross would practice one day after t he 23-year-old wide receiver was charged with misdemeanor domestic battery and criminal damage to property and released after posting $2,500 bond.Ross, who is due again in court on Dec. 4., has been a bit player for the defending Super Bowl champions this season. He has been active in their first seven games but has just three catches for 34 yards on the season.“All situations are different, obviously,” Reid said. “The law enforcement part of it, you listen to what the real details went on, and then you keep open communication ” among general manager Brett Veach and other law enforcement officials.“Other than that,” Reid said, “I really don't have any information for you other than what we have gathered.”NOTES: WR Justin Watson returned to practice Wednesday. He hurt his elbow during the Chiefs' win over the Broncos in Week 6, and while the injury at first appeared to be significant, Watson could be back soon. He has 10 catches for 219 yards this season. ... QB Patrick Mahomes has said that he enjoys playing in the snow, and that could bode well for the Chiefs with a chance of it on Sunday in Denver. “I grew up in Texas. I only saw snow like, twice growing up,” Mahomes said. “I got accustomed to it in KC. I thought snow would be like rain where it gets a little slippery, where the snow actually makes it a little sticky. But at the end of the day, you just have to go out there and throw it and see what happens.”

Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton has surgery on fractured wrist in Los Angeles

- Larned Football coach Brady Keith will be joined by his four captains, Luke Fisher, Ty Smith, Talon Reynolds and Carson Shaver. They will help preview Friday's home week 9 matchup with TMP.

- The "Voice of the Tigers" Gerard Wellbrock talks everything Fort Hays State athletics.

- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Panther sports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Wednesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YUloLtLGGXI?si=lxMulky6yO_QGqXm" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- Larned Football coach Brady Keith will be joined by his four captains, Luke Fisher, Ty Smith, Talon Reynolds and Carson Shaver. They will help preview Friday's home week 9 matchup with TMP.- The "Voice of the Tigers" Gerard Wellbrock talks everything Fort Hays State athletics.- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Panther sports.- Wednesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Wednesday on Sports Day (Watch)

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas will kick off its 111th Homecoming in the national spotlight as the Kansas Jayhawks host the No. 6 Oklahoma Sooners to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 28 at 11 a.m. on FOX.

FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff will make its first appearance in Lawrence as the pregame show hosted by Rob Stone previews the day’s top games, while providing detailed analysis of the Big Noon Saturday matchup from analysts Urban Meyer, Brady Quinn, Matt Leinart and Mark Ingram II.

After hosting ESPN’s College Gameday on Oct. 8, 2022, Kansas will be just one of five programs to host both major college pregame shows over the last two seasons, joining Texas, Ohio State, Colorado and Notre Dame.

Kansas (5-2, 2-2 Big 12) returns to action following the bye week, as the Jayhawks look to continue their success at home. The Jayhawks are 4-0 when playing at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium this season and are 8-2 over their last 10 home games dating back to the start of the 2022 season.

The Jayhawks suffered their second loss of the season in their last game against Oklahoma State on Oct. 14. Through seven games, Kansas ranks among the leaders nationally in yards-per-play (7.2), third down conversions (53.4%) and rushing offense (212.0) among other statistical categories.

Kansas is led by Lawrence native Devin Neal, who has rushed for 659 yards and six touchdowns on 90 carries this season. Neal’s yards per carry of 7.3 ranks fourth in power five football this season. Since the start of the 2022 season, Neal is the only active running back in FBS to rush for 1,700 yards, average 6.5 yards per carry, and rush for 15 touchdowns over that span.

Oklahoma (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) enters Saturday’s contest undefeated following a 31-29 victory over UCF on Oct. 21. The 7-0 start for the Sooners is their third 7-0 start over the past 18 seasons, as the Sooners currently sit atop the Big 12 standings.

The Sooners are the Big 12 leader in passing offense, averaging 328.6 yards per game, which ranks as the seventh most nationally. Redshirt senior Dillon Gabriel leads the Oklahoma offense completing 71.2% of his passes (166-of-233), while his 19 passing touchdowns, 2,131 passing yards and 172.4 passing efficiency all lead the Big 12.

Saturday’s Homecoming matchup will be the 114th meeting all-time between the Jayhawks and the Sooners, where Oklahoma owns an 80-27-6 series advantage, including a 37-14-3 advantage in games played in Lawrence. The Jayhawks are 45-60-5 all-time on Homecoming after defeating Iowa State last season, 14-11, on Oct. 1, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698251912498.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas will kick off its 111th Homecoming in the national spotlight as the Kansas Jayhawks host the No. 6 Oklahoma Sooners to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 28 at 11 a.m. on FOX.FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff will make its first appearance in Lawrence as the pregame show hosted by Rob Stone previews the day’s top games, while providing detailed analysis of the Big Noon Saturday matchup from analysts Urban Meyer, Brady Quinn, Matt Leinart and Mark Ingram II.After hosting ESPN’s College Gameday on Oct. 8, 2022, Kansas will be just one of five programs to host both major college pregame shows over the last two seasons, joining Texas, Ohio State, Colorado and Notre Dame.Kansas (5-2, 2-2 Big 12) returns to action following the bye week, as the Jayhawks look to continue their success at home. The Jayhawks are 4-0 when playing at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium this season and are 8-2 over their last 10 home games dating back to the start of the 2022 season.The Jayhawks suffered their second loss of the season in their last game against Oklahoma State on Oct. 14. Through seven games, Kansas ranks among the leaders nationally in yards-per-play (7.2), third down conversions (53.4%) and rushing offense (212.0) among other statistical categories.Kansas is led by Lawrence native Devin Neal, who has rushed for 659 yards and six touchdowns on 90 carries this season. Neal’s yards per carry of 7.3 ranks fourth in power five football this season. Since the start of the 2022 season, Neal is the only active running back in FBS to rush for 1,700 yards, average 6.5 yards per carry, and rush for 15 touchdowns over that span.Oklahoma (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) enters Saturday’s contest undefeated following a 31-29 victory over UCF on Oct. 21. The 7-0 start for the Sooners is their third 7-0 start over the past 18 seasons, as the Sooners currently sit atop the Big 12 standings.The Sooners are the Big 12 leader in passing offense, averaging 328.6 yards per game, which ranks as the seventh most nationally. Redshirt senior Dillon Gabriel leads the Oklahoma offense completing 71.2% of his passes (166-of-233), while his 19 passing touchdowns, 2,131 passing yards and 172.4 passing efficiency all lead the Big 12.Saturday’s Homecoming matchup will be the 114th meeting all-time between the Jayhawks and the Sooners, where Oklahoma owns an 80-27-6 series advantage, including a 37-14-3 advantage in games played in Lawrence. The Jayhawks are 45-60-5 all-time on Homecoming after defeating Iowa State last season, 14-11, on Oct. 1, 2022.

Kansas vs. No. 6 Oklahoma Set for National Spotlight on Homecoming

By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football Writer

Kansas City and Philadelphia are setting the stage for the possibility of a rare Super Bowl rematch.

The Chiefs and Eagles have both won six of their first seven games and are tied for the best record in the NFL.

This is just the sixth time that the two teams that played in the Super Bowl the previous season are tied for the league's best record entering Week 8 or later.

The last time it happened was going into Week 12 of the 2000 season when the Titans and Rams were both 8-2. Neither team ended up making the Super Bowl with Tennessee losing in the divisional round and St. Louis in the wild-card round.

It also happened in 1993 when Buffalo and Dallas finished the season tied for the best record at 12-4 a year after playing in the Super Bowl. They met again in the Super Bowl that season with the Cowboys repeating as champions in the only time the same two teams met in the Super Bowl in back-to-back seasons.

The win over the Chargers gave the Chiefs a three-game lead in the AFC West — just the fourth time in the past 10 seasons that has happened after seven weeks.

Kansas City has already won division games against Denver and the Chargers to improve to 29-3 against division opponents with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback. Mahomes' .906 winning percentage in the division is the best of any QB since the merger with at least 20 starts, far outdistancing Dak Prescott's .800 mark for Dallas against the NFC East.

The 28-year-old Mahomes had his sixth career game in the regular season or playoffs with at least 400 yards passing and four TDs. The only players with more in NFL history are Peyton Manning (nine) and Dan Marino (eight).

The Eagles got to 6-1 by beating Miami 31-17. Receiver A.J. Brown had his fifth straight game with at least 125 yards receiving, tying Calvin Johnson (2012) and Pat Studstill (1966) for the longest streaks ever.

Washington's Sam Howell keeps taking sacks at a record-setting pace.

Howell was sacked six times in a loss to the Giants on Sunday. Howell has been sacked at least four times in every game this season. That's one shy of the longest streak since the merger held by Deshaun Watson (2018-19), Jeff George (1997-98) and Blake Bortles (2014-15).

Howell's 40 sacks are the second most through seven games since the merger, trailing only David Carr's 43 for the expansion Houston Texans in 2002. Carr set the NFL record for sacks that season with 76.

Maxx Crosby's impressive iron man streak came to an end for the Raiders.

Crosby had played 267 consecutive defensive snaps for Las Vegas before coming off the field for two kneel downs at the end of a loss to the Bears.

Crosby hadn't missed a snap since Week 3 against the Chargers with his three-game streak the longest for a defensive lineman since Chandler Jones did it five straight games for Arizona in 2017, according to Sportradar.

Since the start of the 2022 season, there have been nine games when a defensive lineman played every defensive snap with Crosby having seven of those games. Aaron Donald and Greg Gaines each have one.

New England coach Bill Belichick joined some elite company when he won his 300th regular season game, joining Don Shula (328) and George Halas (318) as the only coaches ever to hit that milestone.

The NFL record for coaching wins including the postseason has Belichick currently trailing Shula 347-331. He also has lost 170 games — eight fewer than Tom Landry for the most ever.

The Bears and Raiders had a rare game with two undrafted quarterbacks.

Rookie Tyson Bagent came out on top for Chicago, besting Brian Hoyer in the first game featuring two undrafted starting quarterbacks since Nick Mullens and San Francisco beat Case Keenum and Denver 20-14 on Dec. 9, 2018.

Bagent, who played at Division II Shepherd University, became just the third undrafted rookie quarterback to win his first start in the past 10 seasons, joining Devlin Hodges in 2019 and Kyle Allen in 2018.

Hoyer extended his losing streak as a starter to 13 games — tied for the eighth longest since the merger. Hoyer hasn't won a start since Oct. 2, 2016, for the Bears. Bagent became the 106th quarterback to win a start more recently than Hoyer.

The game also put Hoyer into sole possession of second place by starting with his eighth franchise — one behind Ryan Fitzpatrick's record.

By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football WriterKansas City and Philadelphia are setting the stage for the possibility of a rare Super Bowl rematch.The Chiefs and Eagles have both won six of their first seven games and are tied for the best record in the NFL.This is just the sixth time that the two teams that played in the Super Bowl the previous season are tied for the league's best record entering Week 8 or later.The last time it happened was going into Week 12 of the 2000 season when the Titans and Rams were both 8-2. Neither team ended up making the Super Bowl with Tennessee losing in the divisional round and St. Louis in the wild-card round.It also happened in 1993 when Buffalo and Dallas finished the season tied for the best record at 12-4 a year after playing in the Super Bowl. They met again in the Super Bowl that season with the Cowboys repeating as champions in the only time the same two teams met in the Super Bowl in back-to-back seasons.The win over the Chargers gave the Chiefs a three-game lead in the AFC West — just the fourth time in the past 10 seasons that has happened after seven weeks.Kansas City has already won division games against Denver and the Chargers to improve to 29-3 against division opponents with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback. Mahomes' .906 winning percentage in the division is the best of any QB since the merger with at least 20 starts, far outdistancing Dak Prescott's .800 mark for Dallas against the NFC East.The 28-year-old Mahomes had his sixth career game in the regular season or playoffs with at least 400 yards passing and four TDs. The only players with more in NFL history are Peyton Manning (nine) and Dan Marino (eight).The Eagles got to 6-1 by beating Miami 31-17. Receiver A.J. Brown had his fifth straight game with at least 125 yards receiving, tying Calvin Johnson (2012) and Pat Studstill (1966) for the longest streaks ever.SACK DANCEWashington's Sam Howell keeps taking sacks at a record-setting pace.Howell was sacked six times in a loss to the Giants on Sunday. Howell has been sacked at least four times in every game this season. That's one shy of the longest streak since the merger held by Deshaun Watson (2018-19), Jeff George (1997-98) and Blake Bortles (2014-15).Howell's 40 sacks are the second most through seven games since the merger, trailing only David Carr's 43 for the expansion Houston Texans in 2002. Carr set the NFL record for sacks that season with 76.IRON MANMaxx Crosby's impressive iron man streak came to an end for the Raiders.Crosby had played 267 consecutive defensive snaps for Las Vegas before coming off the field for two kneel downs at the end of a loss to the Bears.Crosby hadn't missed a snap since Week 3 against the Chargers with his three-game streak the longest for a defensive lineman since Chandler Jones did it five straight games for Arizona in 2017, according to Sportradar.Since the start of the 2022 season, there have been nine games when a defensive lineman played every defensive snap with Crosby having seven of those games. Aaron Donald and Greg Gaines each have one.RECORD CHASERNew England coach Bill Belichick joined some elite company when he won his 300th regular season game, joining Don Shula (328) and George Halas (318) as the only coaches ever to hit that milestone.The NFL record for coaching wins including the postseason has Belichick currently trailing Shula 347-331. He also has lost 170 games — eight fewer than Tom Landry for the most ever.UNDRAFTED MATCHUPThe Bears and Raiders had a rare game with two undrafted quarterbacks.Rookie Tyson Bagent came out on top for Chicago, besting Brian Hoyer in the first game featuring two undrafted starting quarterbacks since Nick Mullens and San Francisco beat Case Keenum and Denver 20-14 on Dec. 9, 2018.Bagent, who played at Division II Shepherd University, became just the third undrafted rookie quarterback to win his first start in the past 10 seasons, joining Devlin Hodges in 2019 and Kyle Allen in 2018.Hoyer extended his losing streak as a starter to 13 games — tied for the eighth longest since the merger. Hoyer hasn't won a start since Oct. 2, 2016, for the Bears. Bagent became the 106th quarterback to win a start more recently than Hoyer.The game also put Hoyer into sole possession of second place by starting with his eighth franchise — one behind Ryan Fitzpatrick's record.

Fast starts by the Chiefs and Eagles raise the possibility of a rare Super Bowl rematch

PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Corbin Carroll went 3 for 4 with two RBIs and two runs scored, and
the Arizona Diamondbacks advanced to the World Series for the first
time in 22 years by stunning the Philadelphia Phillies 4-2 in Game 7
of the NL Championship Series. Arizona plays the Texas Rangers in the
World Series, with Game 1 set for Friday night at Globe Life Field.
In their only other trip to the Fall Classic, the Diamondbacks beat
the New York Yankees in a seven-game thriller in 2001. The young
Diamondbacks, who at 84-78 squeezed into the playoffs as the final
National League wild card, completed their comeback from an 0-2 hole
in the NLCS by taking early leads in Games 6 and 7 to win the final
two in Philadelphia.

UNDATED (AP) — The
Arizona Diamondbacks meet the Texas Rangers in a longshot World
Series, a matchup that had 1,750 to 1 odds when wagering opened last
fall. But in an era when 12 teams make the playoffs, sustained
excellence over the six-month regular season has become a boarding
pass, not the journey. The World Series opens Friday night at Globe
Life Field. Major League Baseball has its third all-wild card
meeting, a Grand Canyon vs. Lone Star finale of second-place teams
played in air-conditioned ballparks under retractable roofs —
potentially the first all-indoor World Series.

ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — The Texas Rangers are back in the World Series for the first
time since twice being within one strike of winning the 2011 title.
They entered this season with a franchise-long streak of six
consecutive losing seasons, including 102 losses just two years ago.
The Rangers wrapped up a seven-game AL Championship Series with an
11-4 win Monday against the Houston Astros, last year's world champs.
Texas now hosts Game 1 of the Word Series against Arizona on Friday
night. That will be 12 years to the date after Game 6 when the
Cardinals were twice down to their final strike. St. Louis beat Texas
in 11 innings, then finished off the World series the next night.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —
Three people with direct knowledge of the situation say the San
Francisco Giants have hired manager Bob Melvin away from the division
rival San Diego Padres. Melvin will be returning to the Bay Area
where he grew up, played for the Giants and then managed the Oakland
Athletics from 2011-21. He leaves San Diego with a year on his
contract amid reports of friction with general manager A.J. Preller.

UNDATED (AP) —
Kansas City and Philadelphia are setting the stage for the
possibility of a rare Super Bowl rematch. The Chiefs and Eagles have
both won six of their first seven games and are tied for the best
record in the NFL. This is just the sixth time that the two teams
that played in the Super Bowl the previous season are tied for the
best record in the NFL entering Week 8 or later. One of the previous
times it happened was 1993 with Buffalo and Dallas on the way to the
only Super Bowl rematch.

UNDATED (AP) —
Freshmen are making some significant contributions in the Big 12 this
season. Kansas State's Avery Johnson and Iowa State's Rocco Becht
have their teams in the hunt for a spot in the league championship
game. Both teams are in a second-place logjam with Texas and Oklahoma
State, just behind Oklahoma. Johnson matched a school record with
five rushing touchdowns two weeks ago against Texas Tech, then had a
TD pass and another impressive rushing effort in a win over TCU.
Becht is on pace to break freshman records for yards and touchdowns
set by Brock Purdy.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) —
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian says quarterback Quinn Ewers is week to
week with an injury to his throwing shoulder. Maalik Murphy is likely
to start for No. 7 Texas this week against BYU. Sarkisian says Murphy
and top recruit Arch Manning will get snaps in practice to prepare
for the game. Murphy finished Texas’ 31-24 victory over Houston
after Ewers left the game in the third quarter. Ewers had his right
arm in a sling by the time he left the stadium.

UNDATED (AP) —
Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon and Liberty turned in the top
individual and team rushing performances of the season for games
matching Football Bowl Subdivision teams. Gordon carried 29 times for
282 yards and four touchdowns in a 48-34 win over West Virginia. It
was his fourth straight game over 100 yards and the Cowboys’ top
rushing total since Chuba Hubbard had 296 yards against Kansas State
in 2019. Liberty ran for 401 yards in a 42-35 win over Middle
Tennessee State. It was the Flames’ best rushing total since 2012.

WACO, Texas (AP) —
A federal jury has found Baylor University negligent in a Title IX
lawsuit and awarded $270,000 to a former student who alleged she was
physically abused by a football player in 2014. The verdict Tuesday
centered on a period of wide-ranging scandal at the nation’s
biggest Baptist school. Jurors in a Waco courtroom held that Baylor
“maintained a policy of deliberate indifference to reports of
sexual harassment” that put former student Delores Lozano at risk.
Baylor University expressed disappointment with the verdict and said
it continues to contend that it handled the reports correctly. The
sexual assault scandal led to the ouster of the university's
president and football coach Art Briles.

UNDATED (AP) —
Tickets for the last two Southeastern Conference championship games
were purchased in the name of a suspended Michigan football staffer
who is the focus of an NCAA investigation into an alleged
sign-stealing scheme. That's according to a person with direct
knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on
condition of anonymity because no one was authorized to speak
publicly about an open NCAA investigation. The person says electronic
records revealed Connor Stalions bought tickets to the games at
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Records also show Stalions
purchased tickets to games involving multiple Big Ten schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697194107486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Corbin Carroll went 3 for 4 with two RBIs and two runs scored, and
the Arizona Diamondbacks advanced to the World Series for the first
time in 22 years by stunning the Philadelphia Phillies 4-2 in Game 7
of the NL Championship Series. Arizona plays the Texas Rangers in the
World Series, with Game 1 set for Friday night at Globe Life Field.
In their only other trip to the Fall Classic, the Diamondbacks beat
the New York Yankees in a seven-game thriller in 2001. The young
Diamondbacks, who at 84-78 squeezed into the playoffs as the final
National League wild card, completed their comeback from an 0-2 hole
in the NLCS by taking early leads in Games 6 and 7 to win the final
two in Philadelphia.UNDATED (AP) — The
Arizona Diamondbacks meet the Texas Rangers in a longshot World
Series, a matchup that had 1,750 to 1 odds when wagering opened last
fall. But in an era when 12 teams make the playoffs, sustained
excellence over the six-month regular season has become a boarding
pass, not the journey. The World Series opens Friday night at Globe
Life Field. Major League Baseball has its third all-wild card
meeting, a Grand Canyon vs. Lone Star finale of second-place teams
played in air-conditioned ballparks under retractable roofs —
potentially the first all-indoor World Series.ARLINGTON, Texas
(AP) — The Texas Rangers are back in the World Series for the first
time since twice being within one strike of winning the 2011 title.
They entered this season with a franchise-long streak of six
consecutive losing seasons, including 102 losses just two years ago.
The Rangers wrapped up a seven-game AL Championship Series with an
11-4 win Monday against the Houston Astros, last year's world champs.
Texas now hosts Game 1 of the Word Series against Arizona on Friday
night. That will be 12 years to the date after Game 6 when the
Cardinals were twice down to their final strike. St. Louis beat Texas
in 11 innings, then finished off the World series the next night.SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —
Three people with direct knowledge of the situation say the San
Francisco Giants have hired manager Bob Melvin away from the division
rival San Diego Padres. Melvin will be returning to the Bay Area
where he grew up, played for the Giants and then managed the Oakland
Athletics from 2011-21. He leaves San Diego with a year on his
contract amid reports of friction with general manager A.J. Preller.UNDATED (AP) —
Kansas City and Philadelphia are setting the stage for the
possibility of a rare Super Bowl rematch. The Chiefs and Eagles have
both won six of their first seven games and are tied for the best
record in the NFL. This is just the sixth time that the two teams
that played in the Super Bowl the previous season are tied for the
best record in the NFL entering Week 8 or later. One of the previous
times it happened was 1993 with Buffalo and Dallas on the way to the
only Super Bowl rematch.UNDATED (AP) —
Freshmen are making some significant contributions in the Big 12 this
season. Kansas State's Avery Johnson and Iowa State's Rocco Becht
have their teams in the hunt for a spot in the league championship
game. Both teams are in a second-place logjam with Texas and Oklahoma
State, just behind Oklahoma. Johnson matched a school record with
five rushing touchdowns two weeks ago against Texas Tech, then had a
TD pass and another impressive rushing effort in a win over TCU.
Becht is on pace to break freshman records for yards and touchdowns
set by Brock Purdy.AUSTIN, Texas (AP) —
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian says quarterback Quinn Ewers is week to
week with an injury to his throwing shoulder. Maalik Murphy is likely
to start for No. 7 Texas this week against BYU. Sarkisian says Murphy
and top recruit Arch Manning will get snaps in practice to prepare
for the game. Murphy finished Texas’ 31-24 victory over Houston
after Ewers left the game in the third quarter. Ewers had his right
arm in a sling by the time he left the stadium.UNDATED (AP) —
Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon and Liberty turned in the top
individual and team rushing performances of the season for games
matching Football Bowl Subdivision teams. Gordon carried 29 times for
282 yards and four touchdowns in a 48-34 win over West Virginia. It
was his fourth straight game over 100 yards and the Cowboys’ top
rushing total since Chuba Hubbard had 296 yards against Kansas State
in 2019. Liberty ran for 401 yards in a 42-35 win over Middle
Tennessee State. It was the Flames’ best rushing total since 2012.WACO, Texas (AP) —
A federal jury has found Baylor University negligent in a Title IX
lawsuit and awarded $270,000 to a former student who alleged she was
physically abused by a football player in 2014. The verdict Tuesday
centered on a period of wide-ranging scandal at the nation’s
biggest Baptist school. Jurors in a Waco courtroom held that Baylor
“maintained a policy of deliberate indifference to reports of
sexual harassment” that put former student Delores Lozano at risk.
Baylor University expressed disappointment with the verdict and said
it continues to contend that it handled the reports correctly. The
sexual assault scandal led to the ouster of the university's
president and football coach Art Briles.UNDATED (AP) —
Tickets for the last two Southeastern Conference championship games
were purchased in the name of a suspended Michigan football staffer
who is the focus of an NCAA investigation into an alleged
sign-stealing scheme. That's according to a person with direct
knowledge of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on
condition of anonymity because no one was authorized to speak
publicly about an open NCAA investigation. The person says electronic
records revealed Connor Stalions bought tickets to the games at
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Records also show Stalions
purchased tickets to games involving multiple Big Ten schools.TUESDAY SCORESNATIONAL LEAGUE
PLAYOFFSFinal	Arizona	4	Philadelphia	2	NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Denver	119	L.A.
Lakers	107	Final	Phoenix	108	Golden
State	104	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUEFinal	Toronto	4	Washington	1	Final	Buffalo	6	Ottawa	4	Final	Tampa
Bay	3	Carolina	0	Final	New
Jersey	5	Montreal	2	Final	Dallas	4	Pittsburgh	1	Final	Florida	3	San
Jose	1	Final	Colorado	7	N-Y
Islanders	4	Final
OT	Seattle	5	Detroit	4	Final
OT	Anaheim	3	Columbus	2	Final	Winnipeg	4	St.
Louis	2	Final	Boston	3	Chicago	0	Final	Minnesota	7	Edmonton	4	Final	Vancouver	3	Nashville	2	Final	N-Y
Rangers	3	Calgary	1	Final	Los
Angeles	6	Arizona	3	Final	Vegas	3	Philadelphia	2

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

By JOHN RABY AP Sports Writer

Just like his nickname, freshman Avery Johnson is shining in Kansas State's offense.

The dual-threat quarterback dubbed “Sunshine” matched a school record with five rushing touchdowns two weeks ago against Texas Tech, then had a TD pass and another impressive showing on the ground in a blowout win over TCU.

Johnson is among four freshmen quarterbacks in the Big 12 getting significant snaps this season. He and Iowa State's Rocco Becht have their teams in a second-place logjam with No. 7 Texas and Oklahoma State at 3-1, behind No. 6 Oklahoma (4-0).

Johnson's long, golden locks, his infectious personality and solid play earned him that nickname after Kip Pardue’s quarterback character in the 2000 film “Remember The Titans.” Johnson welcomes the moniker with a sheepish smile as well as his significant role in K-State's offense alongside veteran Will Howard.

“At the end of the day, I don’t really care how it gets done, as long as we come out with the win when the clocks hit zero,” Johnson said.

Coach Chris Klieman has made it clear that while Howard is Kansas State's unquestioned leader on offense, the speedy Johnson is a valuable addition. Kansas State has won two straight after starting the season 3-2 that included a loss at Oklahoma State.

“We’re going to need both of those guys as we still have a lot of football left,” Klieman said.

Johnson carried 16 times for 73 yards against TCU as Kansas State amassed 343 rushing yards. Johnson connected on long passes with fellow freshman Jayce Brown on separate drives to set up scores, and Brown later had his first career touchdown catch from Howard.

“That’s my brother," Johnson said. "We came in here at the same time. He’s a shy guy at first. Once he came out of his shell, we kind of got to bond on and off the field. Credit to him. He’s putting in all the work.”

Becht, a redshirt freshman who saw limited action in three games a year ago, was thrust into the starting role at Iowa State after incumbent Hunter Dekkers, who has not played this season, pleaded guilty to underage gambling in September. Following a 2-3 start, the Cyclones have consecutive wins over TCU and Cincinnati and are coming off a bye week.

“It’s just staying the course and staying consistent,” said Becht, whose father Anthony Becht, played 12 NFL seasons at tight end out of West Virginia. “We’ll be prepared and we’re ready for the competition that’s coming to us.”

Becht is averaging 209 passing yards per game and has thrown 12 TD passes along with five interceptions. He already has the second-most TD passes in a season for an Iowa State freshman and is on pace to exceed the freshman record for yards (2,250) and TDs (16) set by Brock Purdy in 2018.

“Rocco’s growing a lot for a redshirt freshman and a guy that’s seeing all these things for the first time,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “I think his maturity is showing. How his preparation (is), how he handles in-game adjustments, he’s really doing a great job for us.”

Big 12 youngsters are excelling in other positions, too. Three of them will be taking their talents to the Southeastern Conference next season.

Redshirt freshman wide receiver Nic Anderson of Oklahoma has eight receiving touchdowns, the most for a freshman in the Bowl Subdivision. Teammate Peyton Bowen, a freshman strong safety, has blocked two punts — one for a safety — and leads the Sooners with four pass breakups. Texas freshman linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is tied for the team high with three sacks.

Texas Tech redshirt freshman linebacker Ben Roberts is fourth in the Big 12 with 66 tackles and has two forced fumbles. Oklahoma State redshirt freshman safety Cameron Epps had two interceptions earlier this month against Kansas State, returning one for a touchdown.

West Virginia redshirt freshman Hudson Clement had 177 receiving yards and three TDs in a breakout debut against FCS Duquesne last month, then had a 50-yard TD catch two weeks ago against Houston.

TCU quarterback Josh Hoover had quite the first start Oct. 14 after an injury to Chandler Morris, throwing for 439 yards and four TDs in a win over BYU. Coach Sonny Dykes said at the time that Hoover “set the bar pretty high” and that “it's going to be hard to replicate what he did.”

Dykes was right. Hoover, a redshirt freshman, was limited to 187 yards against Kansas State.

"It was a rough game across-the-board offensively,” Dykes said Saturday.

At Texas Tech, freshman Jake Strong was put in a difficult situation.

The Red Raiders' third quarterback this season, Strong made his debut Oct. 14 against Kansas State after Behren Morton was injured. Strong had a 54-yard run to set up his 8-yard TD pass that gave Texas Tech the lead. But he threw three interceptions late in the loss and had three more picks in his first start in a loss to BYU.

By JOHN RABY AP Sports WriterJust like his nickname, freshman Avery Johnson is shining in Kansas State's offense.The dual-threat quarterback dubbed “Sunshine” matched a school record with five rushing touchdowns two weeks ago against Texas Tech, then had a TD pass and another impressive showing on the ground in a blowout win over TCU.Johnson is among four freshmen quarterbacks in the Big 12 getting significant snaps this season. He and Iowa State's Rocco Becht have their teams in a second-place logjam with No. 7 Texas and Oklahoma State at 3-1, behind No. 6 Oklahoma (4-0).Johnson's long, golden locks, his infectious personality and solid play earned him that nickname after Kip Pardue’s quarterback character in the 2000 film “Remember The Titans.” Johnson welcomes the moniker with a sheepish smile as well as his significant role in K-State's offense alongside veteran Will Howard.“At the end of the day, I don’t really care how it gets done, as long as we come out with the win when the clocks hit zero,” Johnson said.Coach Chris Klieman has made it clear that while Howard is Kansas State's unquestioned leader on offense, the speedy Johnson is a valuable addition. Kansas State has won two straight after starting the season 3-2 that included a loss at Oklahoma State.“We’re going to need both of those guys as we still have a lot of football left,” Klieman said.Johnson carried 16 times for 73 yards against TCU as Kansas State amassed 343 rushing yards. Johnson connected on long passes with fellow freshman Jayce Brown on separate drives to set up scores, and Brown later had his first career touchdown catch from Howard.“That’s my brother," Johnson said. "We came in here at the same time. He’s a shy guy at first. Once he came out of his shell, we kind of got to bond on and off the field. Credit to him. He’s putting in all the work.”Becht, a redshirt freshman who saw limited action in three games a year ago, was thrust into the starting role at Iowa State after incumbent Hunter Dekkers, who has not played this season, pleaded guilty to underage gambling in September. Following a 2-3 start, the Cyclones have consecutive wins over TCU and Cincinnati and are coming off a bye week.“It’s just staying the course and staying consistent,” said Becht, whose father Anthony Becht, played 12 NFL seasons at tight end out of West Virginia. “We’ll be prepared and we’re ready for the competition that’s coming to us.”Becht is averaging 209 passing yards per game and has thrown 12 TD passes along with five interceptions. He already has the second-most TD passes in a season for an Iowa State freshman and is on pace to exceed the freshman record for yards (2,250) and TDs (16) set by Brock Purdy in 2018.“Rocco’s growing a lot for a redshirt freshman and a guy that’s seeing all these things for the first time,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “I think his maturity is showing. How his preparation (is), how he handles in-game adjustments, he’s really doing a great job for us.”Big 12 youngsters are excelling in other positions, too. Three of them will be taking their talents to the Southeastern Conference next season.Redshirt freshman wide receiver Nic Anderson of Oklahoma has eight receiving touchdowns, the most for a freshman in the Bowl Subdivision. Teammate Peyton Bowen, a freshman strong safety, has blocked two punts — one for a safety — and leads the Sooners with four pass breakups. Texas freshman linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is tied for the team high with three sacks.Texas Tech redshirt freshman linebacker Ben Roberts is fourth in the Big 12 with 66 tackles and has two forced fumbles. Oklahoma State redshirt freshman safety Cameron Epps had two interceptions earlier this month against Kansas State, returning one for a touchdown.West Virginia redshirt freshman Hudson Clement had 177 receiving yards and three TDs in a breakout debut against FCS Duquesne last month, then had a 50-yard TD catch two weeks ago against Houston.TCU quarterback Josh Hoover had quite the first start Oct. 14 after an injury to Chandler Morris, throwing for 439 yards and four TDs in a win over BYU. Coach Sonny Dykes said at the time that Hoover “set the bar pretty high” and that “it's going to be hard to replicate what he did.”Dykes was right. Hoover, a redshirt freshman, was limited to 187 yards against Kansas State."It was a rough game across-the-board offensively,” Dykes said Saturday.At Texas Tech, freshman Jake Strong was put in a difficult situation.The Red Raiders' third quarterback this season, Strong made his debut Oct. 14 against Kansas State after Behren Morton was injured. Strong had a 54-yard run to set up his 8-yard TD pass that gave Texas Tech the lead. But he threw three interceptions late in the loss and had three more picks in his first start in a loss to BYU.

K-State's Avery Johnson, Cyclones' Rocco Becht are among the freshmen thriving in the Big 12

- Barton Volleyball coach Megan Besecker will be joined in studio by team members Clara Lindstrom and Kassidy Nixon to talk about the year so far that has the Lady Cougars within one victory of a regular season conference championship.

- The "Voice of the Cardinals" Cole Reif looks ahead to Friday night's week 9 matchup in Hoisington between the Cardinals and Phillipsburg.

- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Great Bend Panther Sports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G4fkDFBHWSA?si=R1e66nFovzu1PsIG" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- Barton Volleyball coach Megan Besecker will be joined in studio by team members Clara Lindstrom and Kassidy Nixon to talk about the year so far that has the Lady Cougars within one victory of a regular season conference championship.- The "Voice of the Cardinals" Cole Reif looks ahead to Friday night's week 9 matchup in Hoisington between the Cardinals and Phillipsburg.- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Great Bend Panther Sports.- Tuesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Tuesday on Sports Day (Watch) 

By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports Writer

By JOHN MARSHALL AP Sports WriterZach Edey waited until nearly the last second to decide whether he should leave for the NBA or return to Purdue for another season.Not completely sure what he wanted to do, the reigning national player of the year picked up the phone to talk with his mother and agent. Their response: do what's going to make you the happiest.“It was a no-brainer that I'd come back to Purdue at that point,” Edey said. ”I get to come back to great teammates, a university that loves me, to compete for every championship that's out there. That's something you don't get very often and something I didn't want to pass up.”Edey's decision made it easy for Associated Press Top 25 men's basketball poll voters who picked the preseason All-America team.The Boilermakers' towering center was the lone unanimous pick by a 60-person media panel on the team released Monday. Edey was joined by Marquette guard Tyler Kolek, Kansas center Hunter Dickinson, Duke big man Kyle Filipowski and North Carolina forward Armando Bacot.Edey had a dominating 2022-23 season to sweep all the major national player of the year awards, including AP. The 7-foot-4, 300-pound center averaged 22.3 points, 12.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting 60.7 percent from the field.Edey's return was a big reason Purdue is ranked No. 3 in the AP Top 25 preseason poll. The extra year gives him more time to improve his NBA draft stock, but also perhaps get a bit of redemption after the Boilermakers became just the second No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 in the NCAA Tournament with last spring's loss to Fairleigh Dickinson.Edey is the second straight AP player of the year to return for another season, following Kentucky's Oscar Tschiebwe in 2021-22.“He is an NBA player, but he has to prove that. He has to knock down that threshold,” Purdue coach Matt Painter said. “It’s no different than buying a house. There’s just not a lot of comps out there for him. Normally when you buy a house, you find the five comps and get to your price. That’s how they kind of gauge that. Well, he doesn’t have that.”Kolek had a dynamic second season at Marquette after transferring from George Mason. The 6-3 guard was the Big East player of the year after averaging 12.9 points, 7.5 assists and 4.1 rebounds while shooting nearly 40% from 3-point range.A third-team AP All-American after last season, Kolek was limited in the NCAA Tournament due to a thumb injury suffered in the first round, but his return helped the Golden Eagles earn a No. 5 ranking in the AP preseason poll.“I feel like I'm always evolving, I can always get better,” Kolek said. “It's just taking the next steps, seeing the game the way I want to see it, having the game slow down for me.”Few transfers have made a bigger splash in recent years than Dickinson.He was an honorable mention AP All-American last season after averaging 18.5 points and 9.0 rebounds at Michigan. The agile 7-footer immediately added to already-lofty expectations at Kansas, which earned the preseason No. 1 ranking with Dickinson anchoring the middle.“From a shooting, aggressiveness, passing, playing out of doubles, he probably is as advanced as anybody I’ve ever been around, and he is without question the most equipped to have a big year for a first-year player,” Kansas coach Bill Self said.A highly touted recruit, Filipowski lived up to expectations his first season at Duke, becoming the fourth ACC player to earn rookie of the year and conference tournament MVP honors in the same season.The 7-footer led all freshmen with 16 doubles last season and topped the Blue Devils in scoring and rebounding, averaging 15.1 points and 8.9 rebounds. His return and another stellar recruiting class landed Duke at No. 2 in the preseason poll.Just down the road in Chapel Hill, Bacot has been one of the nation's most consistent players, averaging double figures scoring and rebounding each of the past two seasons.