* All games begin at 7pm unless noted - Home games in CAPS

Thur. Oct. 31&nbsp; 1st Round 8-Man D-I playoffs - TBA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724867183109.jpeg" alt="2024 St. John Tigers Football Schedule" />
 <figcaption>2024 St. John Tigers Football Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>* All games begin at 7pm unless noted - Home games in CAPSFri. Sep. 6&nbsp; @ LaCrosseFri. Sep. 13&nbsp; @ Ness CityFri. Sep. 20&nbsp; KINSLEYFri. Sep. 27&nbsp; HODGEMAN COUNTYFri. Oct. 4&nbsp; @ VictoriaFri. Oct. 11&nbsp; MINNEOLA (Homecoming)Fri. Oct. 18&nbsp; STAFFORDFri. Oct. 25&nbsp; @ MacksvilleThur. Oct. 31&nbsp; 1st Round 8-Man D-I playoffs - TBA

2024 St. John Tigers Football Schedule

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Ranked in both major college football preseason polls, the No. 22/24 Kansas Jayhawks will host Lindenwood to kick off the 2024 season under the lights at Children's Mercy Park on Thursday night. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. on ESPN+ with Shawn Kenney (Play-by-play) and Taylor McHargue (Analyst) on the call.

Kansas opens its 133rd season of football, including its fourth under head coach Lance Leipold on Thursday night. Kansas and Lindenwood meet for the first time in program history, in what is Lindenwood's first matchup against an FBS opponent. The game also serves as the season-opener for both teams, including the first of six Kansas home games that will be played in the Kansas City Metro area in 2024, and the first of two at Children's Mercy Park – Home of Sporting Kansas City of the MLS.

The Jayhawks enter the 2024 season ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press Top 25 and No. 24 in the Coaches Poll, marking the first time since 2008 that Kansas was ranked in both preseason polls. Kansas is coming off back-to-back bowl appearances for just the second time in program history following a 49-36 victory over UNLV in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Dec. 26, 2023. The Jayhawks finished the 2023 season at 9-4 (5-4 Big 12), marking just the seventh nine-win season in program history and first since 2007.

Kansas enters the 2024 season with a plethora of returning experience, including 30 seniors throughout the roster. The Jayhawks return seven starters on offense from the 2023 season, including Maxwell Award Watch List candidates Jalon Daniels and Devin Neal, a star-studded trio of receivers in Lawrence Arnold, Luke Grimm and Quentin Skinner, and proven experience on the offensive line in Bryce Cabeldue, Michael Ford Jr. and Kobe Baynes.

Defensively, the Jayhawks return two All-Big 12 cornerbacks in Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson. As a unit in 2023, Kansas held opponents to 378.2 yards per game and 26.5 points per game, both of which were the fewest allowed in a single season by a KU defense since 2007. Kansas' defense ranked fourth in the Big 12 Conference in total defense in 2023 (378.2), compared to 12th in 2022 (469.3).

The Thursday night game marks Kansas' fourth-straight weeknight season opener after opening on a Friday night in each of the last three seasons. The Thursday night game is Kansas' first played on a Thursday night since 2016 and the Jayhawks' fourth Thursday night game since 2000. The last time Kansas opened the season on a Thursday night was on Thursday, August 28, 1997, when the Jayhawks defeated UAB, 24-0.

Lindenwood, of St. Charles, Missouri, enters the 2024 season following a 3-7 (1-5 Big South-OVC) record in 2023 after dropping their final four games of the year. Under eighth-year head coach Jed Stugart, the Lions were selected to finish eighth in the Big South-OVC Preseason Poll.

Following Thursday night's season opener, Kansas hits the road for the first time of the 2024 season as the Jayhawks travel to Champaign, Illinois to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday, Sept. 7. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. CT on FS1.

Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. – Ranked in both major college football preseason polls, the No. 22/24 Kansas Jayhawks will host Lindenwood to kick off the 2024 season under the lights at Children's Mercy Park on Thursday night. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. on ESPN+ with Shawn Kenney (Play-by-play) and Taylor McHargue (Analyst) on the call.Kansas opens its 133rd season of football, including its fourth under head coach Lance Leipold on Thursday night. Kansas and Lindenwood meet for the first time in program history, in what is Lindenwood's first matchup against an FBS opponent. The game also serves as the season-opener for both teams, including the first of six Kansas home games that will be played in the Kansas City Metro area in 2024, and the first of two at Children's Mercy Park – Home of Sporting Kansas City of the MLS.The Jayhawks enter the 2024 season ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press Top 25 and No. 24 in the Coaches Poll, marking the first time since 2008 that Kansas was ranked in both preseason polls. Kansas is coming off back-to-back bowl appearances for just the second time in program history following a 49-36 victory over UNLV in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Dec. 26, 2023. The Jayhawks finished the 2023 season at 9-4 (5-4 Big 12), marking just the seventh nine-win season in program history and first since 2007.Kansas enters the 2024 season with a plethora of returning experience, including 30 seniors throughout the roster. The Jayhawks return seven starters on offense from the 2023 season, including Maxwell Award Watch List candidates Jalon Daniels and Devin Neal, a star-studded trio of receivers in Lawrence Arnold, Luke Grimm and Quentin Skinner, and proven experience on the offensive line in Bryce Cabeldue, Michael Ford Jr. and Kobe Baynes.Defensively, the Jayhawks return two All-Big 12 cornerbacks in Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson. As a unit in 2023, Kansas held opponents to 378.2 yards per game and 26.5 points per game, both of which were the fewest allowed in a single season by a KU defense since 2007. Kansas' defense ranked fourth in the Big 12 Conference in total defense in 2023 (378.2), compared to 12th in 2022 (469.3).The Thursday night game marks Kansas' fourth-straight weeknight season opener after opening on a Friday night in each of the last three seasons. The Thursday night game is Kansas' first played on a Thursday night since 2016 and the Jayhawks' fourth Thursday night game since 2000. The last time Kansas opened the season on a Thursday night was on Thursday, August 28, 1997, when the Jayhawks defeated UAB, 24-0.Lindenwood, of St. Charles, Missouri, enters the 2024 season following a 3-7 (1-5 Big South-OVC) record in 2023 after dropping their final four games of the year. Under eighth-year head coach Jed Stugart, the Lions were selected to finish eighth in the Big South-OVC Preseason Poll.Following Thursday night's season opener, Kansas hits the road for the first time of the 2024 season as the Jayhawks travel to Champaign, Illinois to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday, Sept. 7. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. CT on FS1.

No. 22 Kansas Jayhawks Open 2024 Season vs. Lindenwood Thursday Night

* All games begin at 7pm - Home games in CAPS

Thur. Oct. 31&nbsp; 8-Man Division I Playoffs 1st Round - TBA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854585390.jpeg" alt="2024 La Crosse Leopard Football Schedule" />
 <figcaption>2024 La Crosse Leopard Football Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>* All games begin at 7pm - Home games in CAPSFri. Sept. 6&nbsp; ST. JOHNFri. Sept. 13&nbsp; @ Logan-PalcoFri. Sept. 20&nbsp; @ Central PlainsFri. Sept. 27&nbsp; ELLISFri. Oct. 4&nbsp; QUINTERFri. Oct. 11&nbsp; @ Wichita CountyFri. Oct. 18&nbsp; TREGO-COMMUNITYFri. Oct. 25&nbsp; @ Ness CityThur. Oct. 31&nbsp; 8-Man Division I Playoffs 1st Round - TBA

2024 La Crosse Leopard Football Schedule

By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football Writer

Kansas City receiver Kadarius Toney and Tennessee cornerback Caleb Farley, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, were among the cuts Tuesday as teams trimmed their rosters for the regular season.

Toney, who figured to be on the roster bubble, was on his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later.

Teams had to cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90. Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on practice squads that allow up to 17 players, including a spot allocated for the International Player Pathway Program.

Miami receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will begin the season on the physically unable to perform list, meaning he’ll miss at least the first four games. Beckham has not seen the field with the Dolphins since signing a one-year contract in May.

San Francisco’s initial roster is missing a big piece with holdout All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams remaining on the reserve/did not report list as he seeks a new deal. Star receiver Brandon Aiyuk is on the roster but has refused to practice unless he gets a new contract or is traded.

Injuries shortened both of Toney's first two seasons, and he was traded to the Chiefs during his second year with the Giants. The 25-year-old never displayed his dynamic playmaking skills consistently, but did have a big role in the first of the two Super Bowl rings he got with the Chiefs.

In a three-minute span in the fourth quarter of Kansas City’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia in Super Bowl 57, Toney made two monumental plays. First, he caught a 5-yard TD pass that gave the Chiefs a 28-27 lead. Then, he returned a punt 65 yards to the Eagles 5-yard line to set up another TD.

But Toney couldn’t build off that success. He struggled last season, was inactive from Week 15 through the playoffs and sat out when the Chiefs finished their repeat against San Francisco.

Kansas City added veteran wideout Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round to go with Rashee Rice. The Chiefs also have Skyy Moore, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson.

The Titans drafted Farley out of Virginia Tech after he was the first player from a major college to opt out of the 2020 season because of the pandemic. Farley was drafted weeks after a second surgery to repair a back injury from college.

Farley started just twice as injuries limited him to 12 games over his first two seasons. Farley had another back procedure in 2023.

The 25-year-old never played last season. The Titans kept him on the physically unable to perform list after his father was killed last August in an explosion that destroyed Farley’s home in North Carolina.

Arizona released quarterback Desmond Ridder, which means Clayton Tune will be Kyler Murray's backup. Ridder started 13 games for Atlanta last season before being traded to the Cardinals in the offseason.

Jacksonville released eight-year veteran quarterback C.J. Beathard with an injury designation, presumably clearing the way for Mac Jones to back up Trevor Lawrence. Jones started 42 games over the past three seasons with New England after the Patriots drafted him in the first round in 2021.

Receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster was cut by the Chiefs after re-signing with them following his release by the Patriots this month.

The Cowboys put CeeDee Lamb on the commissioner exempt list a day after the All-Pro receiver agreed to a $136 million, four-year contract extension that ended his preseason-long holdout. Lamb signed the contract Tuesday.

The move allowed the Cowboys to put offensive lineman Chuma Edoga on the 53-man roster for a day. Lamb would take the place of Edoga, who could return from injured reserve sooner than four weeks.

Seattle had outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu on the active roster, a sign the Seahawks believe the three-year starter can be ready in fewer than four games. Nwosu injured a knee in the preseason finale.

The New York Jets waived safety Jaylen Key, who was “Mr. Irrelevant” as the last pick in the draft. The former UAB and Alabama standout had a solid training camp, but was buried on the depth chart behind starters Chuck Clark and Tony Adams and veteran reserve Ashtyn Davis.

The Minnesota Vikings kept recovering tight end T.J. Hockenson on the physically unable to perform list, meaning the two-time Pro Bowler must miss at least the first four games. Hockenson is working through the final stage of his rehabilitation after tearing an ACL against Detroit last Dec. 24.

The Vikings waived safety Lewis Cine, the final pick of the first round two years ago in the first draft directed by general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Cine badly broke his leg on special teams in a game early in his rookie year and never made much traction on the depth chart last season. He played a total of 10 defensive snaps in two seasons.

Denver let go of receiver Tim Patrick, whose TD in the second preseason game was his first in 974 days. Patrick, who sustained season-ending injuries at start of training camp in 2022 and ’23, had a solid summer but was victim of the Broncos' depth at his position.

As expected, Cleveland placed star running back Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to recover from two surgeries last year. The club is optimistic Chubb will play this season.

The Browns released running back D’Onta Foreman, who overcame a scary neck injury in training camp. With Nyheim Hines on the non-football injury list, the Browns currently have only Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. at running back.

Washington released veteran receiver Martavis Bryant, who is in his second season of trying to end a long hiatus from the NFL.

The oft-suspended 32-year-old, who last played in the NFL in 2018, spent most of last season on Dallas' practice squad and could land in the same place with the Commanders, who signed him Aug. 13.

For the second season in a row, the Saints are making a change at punter, and again, they’re going with an Australian rookie. This time it’s 27-year-old Matthew Hayball taking over for 31-year-old Lou Hedley, who surprisingly won the job a year earlier.

The Buffalo Bills released receiver K.J. Hamler, their primary preseason returner, and filled the hole on special teams by acquiring defensive back Brandon Codrington in a trade with the AFC East rival Jets. The teams swapped late-round picks in next year’s draft.

The Bills already began assembling their practice squad by agreeing to sign former Dolphins quarterback Mike White, a person with direct knowledge of the move confirmed to The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the agreement, first reported by ESPN.com, had not yet been announced by the team.

The 28-year-old White, who was released by Miami on Sunday, appeared in six games as a backup last year. He spent the previous two seasons with the Jets, where he combined to have a 2-5 record. White provides Buffalo a third quarterback, and a level of insurance with primary backup Mitchell Trubisky nursing a knee injury.

By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football WriterKansas City receiver Kadarius Toney and Tennessee cornerback Caleb Farley, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, were among the cuts Tuesday as teams trimmed their rosters for the regular season.Toney, who figured to be on the roster bubble, was on his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later.Teams had to cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90. Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on practice squads that allow up to 17 players, including a spot allocated for the International Player Pathway Program.Miami receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will begin the season on the physically unable to perform list, meaning he’ll miss at least the first four games. Beckham has not seen the field with the Dolphins since signing a one-year contract in May.San Francisco’s initial roster is missing a big piece with holdout All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams remaining on the reserve/did not report list as he seeks a new deal. Star receiver Brandon Aiyuk is on the roster but has refused to practice unless he gets a new contract or is traded.Injuries shortened both of Toney's first two seasons, and he was traded to the Chiefs during his second year with the Giants. The 25-year-old never displayed his dynamic playmaking skills consistently, but did have a big role in the first of the two Super Bowl rings he got with the Chiefs.In a three-minute span in the fourth quarter of Kansas City’s 38-35 win over Philadelphia in Super Bowl 57, Toney made two monumental plays. First, he caught a 5-yard TD pass that gave the Chiefs a 28-27 lead. Then, he returned a punt 65 yards to the Eagles 5-yard line to set up another TD.But Toney couldn’t build off that success. He struggled last season, was inactive from Week 15 through the playoffs and sat out when the Chiefs finished their repeat against San Francisco.Kansas City added veteran wideout Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and drafted Xavier Worthy in the first round to go with Rashee Rice. The Chiefs also have Skyy Moore, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson.The Titans drafted Farley out of Virginia Tech after he was the first player from a major college to opt out of the 2020 season because of the pandemic. Farley was drafted weeks after a second surgery to repair a back injury from college.Farley started just twice as injuries limited him to 12 games over his first two seasons. Farley had another back procedure in 2023.The 25-year-old never played last season. The Titans kept him on the physically unable to perform list after his father was killed last August in an explosion that destroyed Farley’s home in North Carolina.Arizona released quarterback Desmond Ridder, which means Clayton Tune will be Kyler Murray's backup. Ridder started 13 games for Atlanta last season before being traded to the Cardinals in the offseason.Jacksonville released eight-year veteran quarterback C.J. Beathard with an injury designation, presumably clearing the way for Mac Jones to back up Trevor Lawrence. Jones started 42 games over the past three seasons with New England after the Patriots drafted him in the first round in 2021.Receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster was cut by the Chiefs after re-signing with them following his release by the Patriots this month.The Cowboys put CeeDee Lamb on the commissioner exempt list a day after the All-Pro receiver agreed to a $136 million, four-year contract extension that ended his preseason-long holdout. Lamb signed the contract Tuesday.The move allowed the Cowboys to put offensive lineman Chuma Edoga on the 53-man roster for a day. Lamb would take the place of Edoga, who could return from injured reserve sooner than four weeks.Seattle had outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu on the active roster, a sign the Seahawks believe the three-year starter can be ready in fewer than four games. Nwosu injured a knee in the preseason finale.The New York Jets waived safety Jaylen Key, who was “Mr. Irrelevant” as the last pick in the draft. The former UAB and Alabama standout had a solid training camp, but was buried on the depth chart behind starters Chuck Clark and Tony Adams and veteran reserve Ashtyn Davis.The Minnesota Vikings kept recovering tight end T.J. Hockenson on the physically unable to perform list, meaning the two-time Pro Bowler must miss at least the first four games. Hockenson is working through the final stage of his rehabilitation after tearing an ACL against Detroit last Dec. 24.The Vikings waived safety Lewis Cine, the final pick of the first round two years ago in the first draft directed by general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.Cine badly broke his leg on special teams in a game early in his rookie year and never made much traction on the depth chart last season. He played a total of 10 defensive snaps in two seasons.Denver let go of receiver Tim Patrick, whose TD in the second preseason game was his first in 974 days. Patrick, who sustained season-ending injuries at start of training camp in 2022 and ’23, had a solid summer but was victim of the Broncos' depth at his position.As expected, Cleveland placed star running back Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to recover from two surgeries last year. The club is optimistic Chubb will play this season.The Browns released running back D’Onta Foreman, who overcame a scary neck injury in training camp. With Nyheim Hines on the non-football injury list, the Browns currently have only Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. at running back.Washington released veteran receiver Martavis Bryant, who is in his second season of trying to end a long hiatus from the NFL.The oft-suspended 32-year-old, who last played in the NFL in 2018, spent most of last season on Dallas' practice squad and could land in the same place with the Commanders, who signed him Aug. 13.For the second season in a row, the Saints are making a change at punter, and again, they’re going with an Australian rookie. This time it’s 27-year-old Matthew Hayball taking over for 31-year-old Lou Hedley, who surprisingly won the job a year earlier.The Buffalo Bills released receiver K.J. Hamler, their primary preseason returner, and filled the hole on special teams by acquiring defensive back Brandon Codrington in a trade with the AFC East rival Jets. The teams swapped late-round picks in next year’s draft.The Bills already began assembling their practice squad by agreeing to sign former Dolphins quarterback Mike White, a person with direct knowledge of the move confirmed to The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the agreement, first reported by ESPN.com, had not yet been announced by the team.The 28-year-old White, who was released by Miami on Sunday, appeared in six games as a backup last year. He spent the previous two seasons with the Jets, where he combined to have a 2-5 record. White provides Buffalo a third quarterback, and a level of insurance with primary backup Mitchell Trubisky nursing a knee injury.

Kadarius Toney and Caleb Farley, 1st-rounders from 2021, let go on NFL roster cutdown day

AMERICAN LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBNew
York	78	55	.586	—Baltimore	77	56	.579	1Boston	68	64	.515	9½Tampa
Bay	66	66	.500	11½Toronto	65	69	.485	13½Central DivisionCleveland	75	58	.564	—Kansas
City	75	58	.564	—Minnesota	72	60	.545	2½Detroit	67	66	.504	8Chicago	31	101	.235	43½West DivisionHouston	70	62	.530	—Seattle	67	66	.504	3½Texas	60	71	.458	9½Oakland	57	75	.432	13Los
Angeles	54	78	.409	16NATIONAL LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBPhiladelphia	78	54	.591	—Atlanta	72	60	.545	6New
York	69	63	.523	9Washington	60	73	.451	18½Miami	48	84	.364	30Central DivisionMilwaukee	75	56	.573	—Chicago	67	66	.504	9St.
Louis	65	67	.492	10½Cincinnati	63	69	.477	12½Pittsburgh	62	70	.470	13½West DivisionLos
Angeles	78	54	.591	—Arizona	75	57	.568	3San
Diego	76	58	.567	3San
Francisco	67	66	.504	11½Colorado	49	84	.368	29½

MLB Standings

CLEVELAND (AP) — After four months and a lengthy rain delay, there's a second team sitting atop the AL Central.

Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer and Kansas City moved into a tie for first with Cleveland by beating the Guardians 6-1 on Tuesday night in a game delayed more than two hours by rain.

The Royals, who lost 106 games last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games.

“That’s our goal, to win the division," Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly nothing is decided. We got a month-plus to go, but we like the way we’re playing. Our guys are super competitive. They don’t back down from anything and this is what a pennant race should be.”

Cleveland had led the division since April 14 — 154 days — before dropping the first three games in this series, which concludes with a matinee Wednesday. The Guardians have lost nine of 12 and are just 17-21 since the break.

Cleveland had a nine-game lead on June 26. It's gone now.

“For me, it’s about the end of the season,” first-year manager Stephen Vogt said. "It doesn’t matter how you get there. What matters is that we do get there. Yeah, if you want to look back at the standings, you have a big lead that’s early in the season, that’s why you play 162 games.

“There’s nothing that says in this final stretch that we don’t go on a run. There’s nothing that says we don’t do it again. So you can’t look at the standings and worry about where you are on any given day. You’ve got to wait one day at a time, look where you are at the end of the season and then see where it lands.”

DeJong connected in the second inning off Gavin Williams (2-7), and the Royals tacked on three runs in the seventh off Scott Barlow on RBI singles by Maikel Garcia and Michael Massey, to go along with a wild pitch.

James McArthur (5-5) struck out four in two innings, and the Royals' solid bullpen closed with five perfect innings following the rain delay. The Guardians were held to just three hits.

Kansas City's win came with a minor scare.

All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got hit on the right hand by a pitch from Pedro Avila in the seventh inning. Witt grabbed his right hand in pain, but the majors' leader in average, hits and runs stayed in the game and ripped a double in the ninth.

Quatraro said Witt got hit on the right middle finger. In the clubhouse, Witt indicated to reporters he was OK.

Cleveland was coming to bat in the bottom of the fifth — and three outs from making the game official — when the ballpark's grounds crew rolled out the tarp at 8:06 p.m. to cover the infield before the rain hit.

When it finally came and lightning raced across the sky above Progressive Field, fans retreated for protection in the concourses. The game was delayed for 2 hours, 14 minutes before resuming at 10:20 p.m. with few thousand die-hards on hand.

DeJong, who came over in a trade with the last-place White Sox in July, said the Royals killed time during the delay by playing video games in the clubhouse. He said All-Star catcher Salvado Perez even tried to learn to play chess.

DeJong said he quickly recognized the Royals have a special group.

“Watching them from the outside in, you saw they got their core pieces," he said. "They got starting pitching. They got Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt, so it’s a great combo right there to build a team around.

“It’s nice to have those guys, but we have depth and guys who can play all over. A lot of guys are contributing from a lot of different angles and a lot of things are going our way.”

Royals starter Michael Lorenzen left in the second after straining his left hamstring while covering first base. Quatraro said Lorenzen will return to Kansas City on Wednesday to undergo imaging tests.

“We think it’s mild, but doubtful he’ll be able to pitch in five days,” Quatraro said. “We’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”

Royals: OF Hunter Renfroe (strained right hamstring) continues to undergo treatment and Quatraro said the hope is “to get him back out there as quickly as we can.” Renfroe was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday after his leg tightened against Philadelphia.

Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) threw three simulated innings in a live batting practice against minor leaguers before the game. Cobb is eligible to come off the injured list on Sunday. Vogt said the team is still determining whether to have him go on a minor league rehab assignment.

Guardians RHP Tanner Bibee (10-6, 3.46 ERA) starts the series finale against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.23 ERA), who is 7-0 with a 2.40 ERA in 10 starts since June 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724838207128.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong watches his home run in the second inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong watches his home run in the second inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — After four months and a lengthy rain delay, there's a second team sitting atop the AL Central.The Royals have run down the Guardians.Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer and Kansas City moved into a tie for first with Cleveland by beating the Guardians 6-1 on Tuesday night in a game delayed more than two hours by rain.The Royals, who lost 106 games last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games.“That’s our goal, to win the division," Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly nothing is decided. We got a month-plus to go, but we like the way we’re playing. Our guys are super competitive. They don’t back down from anything and this is what a pennant race should be.”Cleveland had led the division since April 14 — 154 days — before dropping the first three games in this series, which concludes with a matinee Wednesday. The Guardians have lost nine of 12 and are just 17-21 since the break.Cleveland had a nine-game lead on June 26. It's gone now.“For me, it’s about the end of the season,” first-year manager Stephen Vogt said. "It doesn’t matter how you get there. What matters is that we do get there. Yeah, if you want to look back at the standings, you have a big lead that’s early in the season, that’s why you play 162 games.“There’s nothing that says in this final stretch that we don’t go on a run. There’s nothing that says we don’t do it again. So you can’t look at the standings and worry about where you are on any given day. You’ve got to wait one day at a time, look where you are at the end of the season and then see where it lands.”DeJong connected in the second inning off Gavin Williams (2-7), and the Royals tacked on three runs in the seventh off Scott Barlow on RBI singles by Maikel Garcia and Michael Massey, to go along with a wild pitch.James McArthur (5-5) struck out four in two innings, and the Royals' solid bullpen closed with five perfect innings following the rain delay. The Guardians were held to just three hits.Kansas City's win came with a minor scare.All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got hit on the right hand by a pitch from Pedro Avila in the seventh inning. Witt grabbed his right hand in pain, but the majors' leader in average, hits and runs stayed in the game and ripped a double in the ninth.Quatraro said Witt got hit on the right middle finger. In the clubhouse, Witt indicated to reporters he was OK.Cleveland was coming to bat in the bottom of the fifth — and three outs from making the game official — when the ballpark's grounds crew rolled out the tarp at 8:06 p.m. to cover the infield before the rain hit.When it finally came and lightning raced across the sky above Progressive Field, fans retreated for protection in the concourses. The game was delayed for 2 hours, 14 minutes before resuming at 10:20 p.m. with few thousand die-hards on hand.DeJong, who came over in a trade with the last-place White Sox in July, said the Royals killed time during the delay by playing video games in the clubhouse. He said All-Star catcher Salvado Perez even tried to learn to play chess.DeJong said he quickly recognized the Royals have a special group.“Watching them from the outside in, you saw they got their core pieces," he said. "They got starting pitching. They got Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt, so it’s a great combo right there to build a team around.“It’s nice to have those guys, but we have depth and guys who can play all over. A lot of guys are contributing from a lot of different angles and a lot of things are going our way.”Royals starter Michael Lorenzen left in the second after straining his left hamstring while covering first base. Quatraro said Lorenzen will return to Kansas City on Wednesday to undergo imaging tests.“We think it’s mild, but doubtful he’ll be able to pitch in five days,” Quatraro said. “We’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: OF Hunter Renfroe (strained right hamstring) continues to undergo treatment and Quatraro said the hope is “to get him back out there as quickly as we can.” Renfroe was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday after his leg tightened against Philadelphia.Guardians: RHP Alex Cobb (broken fingernail) threw three simulated innings in a live batting practice against minor leaguers before the game. Cobb is eligible to come off the injured list on Sunday. Vogt said the team is still determining whether to have him go on a minor league rehab assignment.UP NEXTGuardians RHP Tanner Bibee (10-6, 3.46 ERA) starts the series finale against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (11-6, 3.23 ERA), who is 7-0 with a 2.40 ERA in 10 starts since June 22.

Royals catch Guardians atop AL Central with 6-1 win in rain delayed game

CLEVELAND (AP) —
Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals caught
Cleveland atop the AL Central by beating the Guardians 6-1 in a game
delayed more than two hours by rain. The Royals, who lost 106 games
last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star
break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games. Cleveland had
been all alone in first since April 14 before dropping the first
three games in this four-game series. The Guardians have lost nine of
12 and are just 17-21 since the break. DeJong homered in the second
off Gavin Williams. 


CLEVELAND (AP) —
Kansas City Royals starter Michael Lorenzen will undergo an MRI on
Wednesday after injuring his left hamstring in the second inning of
Tuesday night’s 6-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians. Lorenzen got
hurt while stretching as he covered first base. He tried to stay in
the game, but exited after facing one batter. Manager Matt Quatraro
said Lorenzen will fly back to Kansas City for imaging tests while
the Royals finish their four-game series in Cleveland. Lorenzen was
acquired in a July trade from Texas. He was coming off his best
performance with the Royals, pitching seven scoreless innings last
week against the Angels.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Jake Cronenworth hit a tiebreaking RBI single in San Diego’s
two-run seventh inning, and the Padres beat the St. Louis Cardinals
7-5 for their third consecutive win. Manny Machado homered for San
Diego, and Luis Arraez had three hits. Yuki Matsui pitched an inning
for the win, and Tanner Scott handled the ninth for his 20th save in
22 chances. Padres right-hander Dylan Cease threw 96 pitches in 4 1/3
innings on a night when the gametime temperature was announced at 98
degrees. Paul Goldschmidt homered for St. Louis in its third loss in
four games.

UNDATED (AP) —
Kansas City receiver Kadarius Toney and Tennessee cornerback Caleb
Farley, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, are among the
cuts as teams trim their rosters for the regular season. Toney was on
his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall
three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later. Teams had to
cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90.
Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on
practice squads that allow up to 17 players.

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) —
NFL owners have approved a rule allowing private equity investors in
their teams. They voted to let certain league-sanctioned firms buy up
a stake of up to 10% in the 32 franchises that are steadily soaring
in value. The previously prohibited practice was studied for the past
five years. During that time the Denver Broncos sold for $4.65
billion and the Washington Commanders went for $6.05 billion. The NFL
took this vote at a special meeting in Minnesota. It vetted three
standalone funds and one consortium of five firms as the only
allowable investors.

ATLANTA (AP) — The
PGA Tour could use a change of scenery for its postseason. For the
third straight year, the path to the FedEx Cup finale starts at the
TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. The only playoff event that
changes venues is the BMW Championship. The problem for the tour is
that Memphis is the headquarters of FedEx, the company that pays the
bills. The FedEx Cup began in big markets like New York and Boston
and two of them moved around. Now it starts in Memphis and ends in
Atlanta. It would be ideal to persuade FedEx to alternate out of
Memphis.

UNDATED (AP) — The
NCAA Division I Council will consider eliminating the 15-day spring
transfer window for football as part of a move to decrease the
overall number of days from 45 to 30 that players can declare their
intentions to switch schools while maintaining immediate eligibility.
The NCAA has announced the football oversight committees have
recommended decreasing the transfer portal windows from two to one.
The council will meet in October and if approved, the new one-window
arrangement could go into effect this year from Dec. 9-Jan. 7.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The new-look Big 12 begins play this weekend and the
pressure is on to perform. The four newcomers have some tough games
right out of the blocks with Arizona State playing perennial bowl
contender Wyoming, Colorado facing FCS power North Dakota State, Utah
against Baylor after its opener against Southern Utah, and Arizona
facing Kansas State in Week 3. But they are not the only ones under
immediate pressure to win. The entire league, which is trying to
prove its playoff worth, will be watching to see what West Virginia
does when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town on Saturday night.

BOULDER, Colo. (AP)
— Hall of Fame defensive tackle Warren Sapp never figured he'd get
into coaching. But that changed when he visited Deion Sanders a year
ago after Coach Prime had been hired at the University of Colorado.
Sapp is serving as a graduate assistant and helping with the
defensive line this season under Sanders. Sapp said he enjoys
connecting with Gen Z players and working alongside
another former Miami Hurricanes star in Damione Lewis.

Texas	at	Chi White
Sox	5:10 p.m.	(Suspended)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718617262520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) —
Paul DeJong hit a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals caught
Cleveland atop the AL Central by beating the Guardians 6-1 in a game
delayed more than two hours by rain. The Royals, who lost 106 games
last season, improved to a league-best 23-13 since the All-Star
break, when they trailed the Guardians by seven games. Cleveland had
been all alone in first since April 14 before dropping the first
three games in this four-game series. The Guardians have lost nine of
12 and are just 17-21 since the break. DeJong homered in the second
off Gavin Williams. 
CLEVELAND (AP) —
Kansas City Royals starter Michael Lorenzen will undergo an MRI on
Wednesday after injuring his left hamstring in the second inning of
Tuesday night’s 6-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians. Lorenzen got
hurt while stretching as he covered first base. He tried to stay in
the game, but exited after facing one batter. Manager Matt Quatraro
said Lorenzen will fly back to Kansas City for imaging tests while
the Royals finish their four-game series in Cleveland. Lorenzen was
acquired in a July trade from Texas. He was coming off his best
performance with the Royals, pitching seven scoreless innings last
week against the Angels.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Jake Cronenworth hit a tiebreaking RBI single in San Diego’s
two-run seventh inning, and the Padres beat the St. Louis Cardinals
7-5 for their third consecutive win. Manny Machado homered for San
Diego, and Luis Arraez had three hits. Yuki Matsui pitched an inning
for the win, and Tanner Scott handled the ninth for his 20th save in
22 chances. Padres right-hander Dylan Cease threw 96 pitches in 4 1/3
innings on a night when the gametime temperature was announced at 98
degrees. Paul Goldschmidt homered for St. Louis in its third loss in
four games.UNDATED (AP) —
Kansas City receiver Kadarius Toney and Tennessee cornerback Caleb
Farley, both first-round picks in the 2021 NFL draft, are among the
cuts as teams trim their rosters for the regular season. Toney was on
his second team since the New York Giants drafted him 20th overall
three years ago. The Titans took Farley two picks later. Teams had to
cut their rosters to 53 players from the training camp maximum of 90.
Toney, Farley and hundreds of others will be eligible to return on
practice squads that allow up to 17 players.EAGAN, Minn. (AP) —
NFL owners have approved a rule allowing private equity investors in
their teams. They voted to let certain league-sanctioned firms buy up
a stake of up to 10% in the 32 franchises that are steadily soaring
in value. The previously prohibited practice was studied for the past
five years. During that time the Denver Broncos sold for $4.65
billion and the Washington Commanders went for $6.05 billion. The NFL
took this vote at a special meeting in Minnesota. It vetted three
standalone funds and one consortium of five firms as the only
allowable investors.ATLANTA (AP) — The
PGA Tour could use a change of scenery for its postseason. For the
third straight year, the path to the FedEx Cup finale starts at the
TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. The only playoff event that
changes venues is the BMW Championship. The problem for the tour is
that Memphis is the headquarters of FedEx, the company that pays the
bills. The FedEx Cup began in big markets like New York and Boston
and two of them moved around. Now it starts in Memphis and ends in
Atlanta. It would be ideal to persuade FedEx to alternate out of
Memphis.UNDATED (AP) — The
NCAA Division I Council will consider eliminating the 15-day spring
transfer window for football as part of a move to decrease the
overall number of days from 45 to 30 that players can declare their
intentions to switch schools while maintaining immediate eligibility.
The NCAA has announced the football oversight committees have
recommended decreasing the transfer portal windows from two to one.
The council will meet in October and if approved, the new one-window
arrangement could go into effect this year from Dec. 9-Jan. 7.KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The new-look Big 12 begins play this weekend and the
pressure is on to perform. The four newcomers have some tough games
right out of the blocks with Arizona State playing perennial bowl
contender Wyoming, Colorado facing FCS power North Dakota State, Utah
against Baylor after its opener against Southern Utah, and Arizona
facing Kansas State in Week 3. But they are not the only ones under
immediate pressure to win. The entire league, which is trying to
prove its playoff worth, will be watching to see what West Virginia
does when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town on Saturday night.BOULDER, Colo. (AP)
— Hall of Fame defensive tackle Warren Sapp never figured he'd get
into coaching. But that changed when he visited Deion Sanders a year
ago after Coach Prime had been hired at the University of Colorado.
Sapp is serving as a graduate assistant and helping with the
defensive line this season under Sanders. Sapp said he enjoys
connecting with Gen Z players and working alongside
another former Miami Hurricanes star in Damione Lewis.TUESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Philadelphia	5	Houston	0	Final	Washington	4	N.Y.
Yankees	2	Final	Oakland	5	Cincinnati	4	Final	Atlanta	8	Minnesota	6	Final	Baltimore	3	L.A.
Dodgers	2	AMERICAN LEAGUETexas	at	Chi White
Sox	5:10 p.m.	(Suspended)Final	Detroit	6	L.A.
Angels	2	Final	Kansas
City	6	Cleveland	1	Final	Boston	6	Toronto	3	Final	Tampa
Bay	3	Seattle	2	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Chicago
Cubs	9	Pittsburgh	5	Final	San
Diego	7	St. Louis	5	Final	San
Francisco	5	Milwaukee	4	Final	Miami	9	Colorado	8	Final	N.Y.
Mets	8	Arizona	3

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Sounds presented by Barton Community College

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and his brother, former Eagles center Jason Kelce, are taking their popular “New Heights” podcast to Amazon's Wondery under a three-year deal that gives the company exclusive advertising sales and distribution rights.

The financial terms of the deal were not immediately available, though some reports put the total at nine figures.

The deal, announced by Wondery on Tuesday, will begin with this week's episode, which drops Wednesday. It includes the back catalog of podcast content along with exclusive rights to monetize and distribute audio and video episodes.

“We couldn’t be more excited to team up with Wondery for the next phase of ‘New Heights,’” the Kelce brothers said in a statement. “We love this show and the fanbase that has grown with us over the last two seasons. Wondery understands the shared vision and will offer a wealth of experience and resources to take us to ‘New Heights!’"

The personable Kelce brothers launched their podcast two years ago. It initially was designed to peel back the cover on the world of professional football players, but has since expanded to touch other corners of the pop culture universe.

The weekly series was chosen podcast of the year at the 2024 iHeartPodcast Awards.

“'New Heights’ on the surface is a sports podcast, and sports is such a well-listened-to category,” Wondery chief executive Jen Sargent said, "but it’s become a cultural phenomenon. They’re in that cultural zeitgeist.”

Travis Kelce's celebrity status reached another level early last season, when the tight end of the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs began dating pop superstar Taylor Swift. He has several crossover projects in the works, including a 20-episode game show for Amazon Prime Video called “Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and his brother, former Eagles center Jason Kelce, are taking their popular “New Heights” podcast to Amazon's Wondery under a three-year deal that gives the company exclusive advertising sales and distribution rights.The financial terms of the deal were not immediately available, though some reports put the total at nine figures.The deal, announced by Wondery on Tuesday, will begin with this week's episode, which drops Wednesday. It includes the back catalog of podcast content along with exclusive rights to monetize and distribute audio and video episodes.“We couldn’t be more excited to team up with Wondery for the next phase of ‘New Heights,’” the Kelce brothers said in a statement. “We love this show and the fanbase that has grown with us over the last two seasons. Wondery understands the shared vision and will offer a wealth of experience and resources to take us to ‘New Heights!’"The personable Kelce brothers launched their podcast two years ago. It initially was designed to peel back the cover on the world of professional football players, but has since expanded to touch other corners of the pop culture universe.The weekly series was chosen podcast of the year at the 2024 iHeartPodcast Awards.“'New Heights’ on the surface is a sports podcast, and sports is such a well-listened-to category,” Wondery chief executive Jen Sargent said, "but it’s become a cultural phenomenon. They’re in that cultural zeitgeist.”Travis Kelce's celebrity status reached another level early last season, when the tight end of the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs began dating pop superstar Taylor Swift. He has several crossover projects in the works, including a 20-episode game show for Amazon Prime Video called “Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?”

Travis and Jason Kelce take popular 'New Heights' podcast to Amazon

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All the talk is over in the Big 12. The preseason hype has hit and settled.

Now it's time for the new-look conference, where longtime members Oklahoma and Texas have been replaced by Arizona State, Arizona, Utah and Colorado in the latest round of college football musical chairs, to prove its worth on the field.

The newcomers don't exactly have it easy out of the gate.

Start with the Sun Devils, who open Saturday with perennially bowl-bound Wyoming, which won nine games a year ago. The Cowboys' season ended with a win over Toledo in the Arizona Bowl, which the No. 21 Wildcats call home.

Arizona, meanwhile, gets a softer opening against New Mexico, then plays Northern Arizona the following week. But things get rough in a hurry with a trip to No. 18 Kansas State for a nonconference matchup against a new conference rival.

No. 12 Utah opens against Southern Utah before it, like Arizona, gets a nonconference game against a Big 12 foe. In the Utes' case, it's Baylor, which is trying to bounce back from a three-win season but won 12 games just a few years ago.

Then there is Colorado, which might attract the most attention of any newcomer not just because of their play — the Buffaloes won four games in their last season in the Pac-12 — but because of their high-profile coach. Deion Sanders is confident that they will be vastly improved this season, and they have a chance to prove it right away against North Dakota State.

The Bison may play at the Football Championship Subdivision level, but they've won fewer than 11 games only once in the past 12 years. During that stretch, they've beaten Big 12 schools Kansas State and Iowa State along with No. 13 Iowa of the Big Ten.

“They're good. They're really darned good,” Sanders said recently, “and I'm mad at (athletic director) Rick (George) right now for putting them on the schedule, to open up with them. Like, can you give me a layup or something? Those guys are wonderful."

The Bison played in five of the previous six FCS title games before losing in the semifinals last season.

“Their staff has always been amongst the best. Many people have matriculated from that staff to go to higher levels. Those kids play their butts off. They play tough. They don’t make many mistakes. They’re accustomed to winning,” Sanders said. “They don’t give a darned about being at home or on the road. That doesn’t faze them whatsoever.”

The quartet of newcomers — though Colorado is in fact returning the league after 13 years in the Pac 12 — aren't the only ones who face a challenge right away. TCU hits the road to face Stanford, which is now a member of the ACC, while West Virginia has perhaps the toughest task when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town Saturday night.

“I think the Penn State game is huge for us,” said Mountaineers coach Neal Brown, whose job was starting to come into question before they won nine games last season. “That's a regional rivalry, which I know that you're very entrenched in traditions. It's not a rivalry that's gone West Virginia's way very often. So that's a great opportunity for us.”

It's also a great opportunity for the Big 12 to beat one of the best programs in the expanded Big Ten.

“You're correct,” Brown said, “it's a big game for our league, and this new Big 12, without a couple schools that have been part of the Big 12 for a long time in that first weekend on a marquee stage, to show what kind of football we play in this league.”

There will be other chances for marquee nonconference wins, of course. Take next week: Iowa State plays No. 25 Iowa, No. 22 Kansas heads to Illinois and Colorado visits Nebraska in games against Big Ten foes; Arkansas visits No. 17 Oklahoma State and Mississippi State visits Arizona State in Big 12-SEC showdowns; and Cincinnati plays ACC rival Pittsburgh.

Yet there is something meaningful about winning in Week 1, both for West Virginia and the Big 12 as a conference.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All the talk is over in the Big 12. The preseason hype has hit and settled.Now it's time for the new-look conference, where longtime members Oklahoma and Texas have been replaced by Arizona State, Arizona, Utah and Colorado in the latest round of college football musical chairs, to prove its worth on the field.The newcomers don't exactly have it easy out of the gate.Start with the Sun Devils, who open Saturday with perennially bowl-bound Wyoming, which won nine games a year ago. The Cowboys' season ended with a win over Toledo in the Arizona Bowl, which the No. 21 Wildcats call home.Arizona, meanwhile, gets a softer opening against New Mexico, then plays Northern Arizona the following week. But things get rough in a hurry with a trip to No. 18 Kansas State for a nonconference matchup against a new conference rival.No. 12 Utah opens against Southern Utah before it, like Arizona, gets a nonconference game against a Big 12 foe. In the Utes' case, it's Baylor, which is trying to bounce back from a three-win season but won 12 games just a few years ago.Then there is Colorado, which might attract the most attention of any newcomer not just because of their play — the Buffaloes won four games in their last season in the Pac-12 — but because of their high-profile coach. Deion Sanders is confident that they will be vastly improved this season, and they have a chance to prove it right away against North Dakota State.The Bison may play at the Football Championship Subdivision level, but they've won fewer than 11 games only once in the past 12 years. During that stretch, they've beaten Big 12 schools Kansas State and Iowa State along with No. 13 Iowa of the Big Ten.“They're good. They're really darned good,” Sanders said recently, “and I'm mad at (athletic director) Rick (George) right now for putting them on the schedule, to open up with them. Like, can you give me a layup or something? Those guys are wonderful."The Bison played in five of the previous six FCS title games before losing in the semifinals last season.“Their staff has always been amongst the best. Many people have matriculated from that staff to go to higher levels. Those kids play their butts off. They play tough. They don’t make many mistakes. They’re accustomed to winning,” Sanders said. “They don’t give a darned about being at home or on the road. That doesn’t faze them whatsoever.”The quartet of newcomers — though Colorado is in fact returning the league after 13 years in the Pac 12 — aren't the only ones who face a challenge right away. TCU hits the road to face Stanford, which is now a member of the ACC, while West Virginia has perhaps the toughest task when it welcomes No. 8 Penn State to town Saturday night.“I think the Penn State game is huge for us,” said Mountaineers coach Neal Brown, whose job was starting to come into question before they won nine games last season. “That's a regional rivalry, which I know that you're very entrenched in traditions. It's not a rivalry that's gone West Virginia's way very often. So that's a great opportunity for us.”It's also a great opportunity for the Big 12 to beat one of the best programs in the expanded Big Ten.“You're correct,” Brown said, “it's a big game for our league, and this new Big 12, without a couple schools that have been part of the Big 12 for a long time in that first weekend on a marquee stage, to show what kind of football we play in this league.”There will be other chances for marquee nonconference wins, of course. Take next week: Iowa State plays No. 25 Iowa, No. 22 Kansas heads to Illinois and Colorado visits Nebraska in games against Big Ten foes; Arkansas visits No. 17 Oklahoma State and Mississippi State visits Arizona State in Big 12-SEC showdowns; and Cincinnati plays ACC rival Pittsburgh.Yet there is something meaningful about winning in Week 1, both for West Virginia and the Big 12 as a conference.

Big 12 ready to embark on season of big expectations, pressure to win

- Barton Volleyball coach Megan Besecker and All American Sophomore Phoebe Reyes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8GthJUcgQCk?si=ZEROub9bsFGAjXg6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- "Voice of the Cardinals" Cole Reif- Barton Volleyball coach Megan Besecker and All American Sophomore Phoebe Reyes- "On the Prowl" with Mike Courson- Tuesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Tuesday on Sports Day(Watch)

* All games begin at 7pm unless noted. Home games in CAPS

Thur. Oct. 30&nbsp; 1st Round 6-Man Playoffs - TBA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724776685497.jpeg" alt="2024 Otis-Bison Football Schedule" />
 <figcaption>2024 Otis-Bison Football Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>* All games begin at 7pm unless noted. Home games in CAPSFri. Sept. 6&nbsp; WESTERN PLAINSFri. Sept. 13&nbsp; @ South BarberFri. Sept. 20&nbsp; PAWNEE HEIGHTSFri. Sept. 27&nbsp; OPENFri. Oct. 4&nbsp; CUNNINGHAMFri. Oct. 11&nbsp; @ TescottThur. Oct 17&nbsp; @ BurrtonFri. Oct. 23&nbsp; CHASEThur. Oct. 30&nbsp; 1st Round 6-Man Playoffs - TBA

2024 Otis-Bison Cougar Football Schedule

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to announce the selection of Dominick Dingle, Wichita Heights High School,&nbsp;and Garrett Michael, Sabetha High School, as the Head Coaches for the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. 

The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game. Their selection is determined by a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and supportstaff. The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas.

The West team will be led by Wichita Heights Head Coach Dominick Dingle. Coach Dingle is entering his 7th season at Wichita Heights High School, where he has compiled an overall record of 26-27. Prior to being named the Head Coach at Wichita Heights in 2018, Dingle spent ten seasons as the Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator at Garden City High School and one season as an assistant coach at Leavenworth High School.

“First, I would like to thank God for allowing me to be selected as the Head coach of the Shrine Bowl West team. I am honored and grateful that God continues to work exceedingly and abundantly in my life,” said Coach Dominick Dingle. “This opportunity is more than I could ever ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). I am truly blessed for the opportunity to serve a role in helping the Shriners and the Kansas Shrine Bowl continue to make a positive impact on the lives of so many young people in Kansas and around the world. I would also like to thank my family, Wichita Heights players, coaching staff, administration, and the entire Falcon Family. Without your continued support and dedication this opportunity to represent Wichita Heights in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl would not be possible. Westside!”

The 2025 East squad will be led by Garrett Michael of Sabetha High School. Coach Michael led the Sabetha program for 15 years as the Head Coach, compiling an overall record of 104-59. During his leadership, the Bluejays won back-to-back 3A state championships in 2017 and 2018, while also making back-to-back runs to the state semifinals in 2022 and 2023. Along with this past summer, Coach Michael previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl in 2018 as an assistant coach.

“The Kansas Shrine Bowl is #For The Kids! It’s a life-changing experience, because you're playing for a cause much bigger than yourself. The hospital kids have a spectacular view on life and their talents top the charts. When the world gives them setbacks, the Shriners gives them bounce backs,” said Coach Garrett Michael. “I’m so humbled and honored to be selected to participate in this great event. This is the pinnacle of high school football. My father was the East Shrine Bowl head coach in 1985, so this is a dream come true for me. I wouldn’t be able to serve in this role without my faith, family, our excellent players, our outstanding coaches and the wonderful community of Sabetha. I’m beyond excited for our 2025 Shrine Bowl players, to put on a show for the state of Kansas. Go East!”

The West holds the all-time series advantage with a 31-18-2 record after the East team ended a six-year drought with a 35-26 win during the 51st Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The East will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time since 2015 and 2016.

“We are excited to have Coach Dingle and Coach Michael leading our teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “Not only are these two men great football coaches, but they are exceptional leaders and genuinely great people. They will not only do a great job coaching our all-star football teams, but they are perfect advocates for the bigger purpose and mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715785398923.png" alt="Shrine Bowl Press Release" />
 <figcaption>Shrine Bowl Press Release</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to announce the selection of Dominick Dingle, Wichita Heights High School,&nbsp;and Garrett Michael, Sabetha High School, as the Head Coaches for the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game. Their selection is determined by a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and supportstaff. The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas.The West team will be led by Wichita Heights Head Coach Dominick Dingle. Coach Dingle is entering his 7th season at Wichita Heights High School, where he has compiled an overall record of 26-27. Prior to being named the Head Coach at Wichita Heights in 2018, Dingle spent ten seasons as the Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator at Garden City High School and one season as an assistant coach at Leavenworth High School.“First, I would like to thank God for allowing me to be selected as the Head coach of the Shrine Bowl West team. I am honored and grateful that God continues to work exceedingly and abundantly in my life,” said Coach Dominick Dingle. “This opportunity is more than I could ever ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). I am truly blessed for the opportunity to serve a role in helping the Shriners and the Kansas Shrine Bowl continue to make a positive impact on the lives of so many young people in Kansas and around the world. I would also like to thank my family, Wichita Heights players, coaching staff, administration, and the entire Falcon Family. Without your continued support and dedication this opportunity to represent Wichita Heights in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl would not be possible. Westside!”The 2025 East squad will be led by Garrett Michael of Sabetha High School. Coach Michael led the Sabetha program for 15 years as the Head Coach, compiling an overall record of 104-59. During his leadership, the Bluejays won back-to-back 3A state championships in 2017 and 2018, while also making back-to-back runs to the state semifinals in 2022 and 2023. Along with this past summer, Coach Michael previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl in 2018 as an assistant coach.“The Kansas Shrine Bowl is #For The Kids! It’s a life-changing experience, because you're playing for a cause much bigger than yourself. The hospital kids have a spectacular view on life and their talents top the charts. When the world gives them setbacks, the Shriners gives them bounce backs,” said Coach Garrett Michael. “I’m so humbled and honored to be selected to participate in this great event. This is the pinnacle of high school football. My father was the East Shrine Bowl head coach in 1985, so this is a dream come true for me. I wouldn’t be able to serve in this role without my faith, family, our excellent players, our outstanding coaches and the wonderful community of Sabetha. I’m beyond excited for our 2025 Shrine Bowl players, to put on a show for the state of Kansas. Go East!”The West holds the all-time series advantage with a 31-18-2 record after the East team ended a six-year drought with a 35-26 win during the 51st Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth. The East will be looking to win consecutive games for the first time since 2015 and 2016.“We are excited to have Coach Dingle and Coach Michael leading our teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “Not only are these two men great football coaches, but they are exceptional leaders and genuinely great people. They will not only do a great job coaching our all-star football teams, but they are perfect advocates for the bigger purpose and mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl Head Coaches Announced

By RALPH D. RUSSO AP College Football Writer

As Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark steps up discussions in the conference about adding UConn, the question isn't so much why invite the Huskies as why do it now.

“There has never been a better time than right now to be part of the Big 12,” Yormark said in July at Big 12 football media days.

But with college sports entering a period of unprecedented transformation — superconferences, an expanded College Football Playoff and a new plan to compensate athletes — what's the rush to add a school that has conceded it needs six years to get its football program Big 12-ready?

UConn athletic director David Benedict recently traveled to Dallas to pitch the Big East school to Big 12 administrators. Conference ADs and presidents heard from the league's media consultants on Monday and plan to further discuss Yormark's latest vision.

To add a new member, 12 of the 16 Big 12 schools would need to be in favor. According to several people familiar with the situation who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the discussions are private, Yormark still has convincing to do among his members that adding UConn is a sound move and the Big 12 needs to act fast.

The No. 1 priority among everyone in college sports right now is grasping the ramifications of the House v. NCAA settlement. The $2.8 billion deal to settle three federal antitrust lawsuits against the NCAA and power conferences also includes a groundbreaking plan to allow schools to share up to $21 million per year with their athletes as soon as 2025-26.

A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 5, when the judge overseeing the case could grant preliminary approval. Final approval is still months away.

There are scores of thorny questions about how revenue-sharing will be implemented and what impact it will have on every aspect of college sports. This is taking up a lot of time for administrators, including those in the Big 12 who haven't even watched the four newest Big 12 schools — Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah — kick off their first football seasons.

The paint has not even dried on Yormark's last renovation project and he is calling for the contractors again.

The Big 12 is all but guaranteed a spot for its champion in the new 12-team playoff, but with the Southeastern Conference swiping Texas and Oklahoma, the conference's case for landing multiple bids is built on quality depth making up for a lack of blue-blood contenders.

The plan being presented to the Big 12 on UConn calls for the Huskies' powerhouse basketball programs (17 national championships combined, including the last two men's titles) and other sports to join as soon as possible. UConn's struggling football program, currently operating as a major-college independent, would not join until 2031 after significant investment by the school.

The Huskies had five winning football seasons as a member of the old Big East, but since 2011 they have reached a bowl twice and never finished better than 6-7.

The Big 12 is trying to bill itself as the conference with no clunkers, a claim not even the top-heavy Big Ten can make. Even if you believe UConn can become a competent football program the way Kansas did after years of ineptitude, why bet on it sight unseen?

It also should be noted that woeful Colorado was the Pac-12's Kansas for the last 15 years. For all the excitement about Deion Sanders at CU, there are still questions about whether the Buffaloes make Big 12 football better.

Also, there is no line of suitors for the Huskies. The Atlantic Coast Conference probably would have interest if lawsuits by Florida State and Clemson trigger a mass exodus, but those cases are barely off the ground, with no resolution in sight.

Still, Yormark is convinced college basketball is undervalued. Supercharging already excellent Big 12 basketball while UConn is part of a strategy to unlock that value in the next round of media rights deals.

Maybe he's right, but the current deal doesn't expire until 2031.

There is no doubt Yormark's wheeler-dealer instincts have been good for the Big 12 since he took over in 2022. Being proactive under Yormark is one of the reasons why the Big 12 has 16 teams and the Pac-12 currently has two.

Yormark is convinced UConn is a good long-term investment for the Big 12 while swiping a potential lifeline from the ACC. Both are looking up at the Big Ten and SEC on and off the field.

“Two years later, I guess you could say we’re still open for business,” Yormark said in July.

Yormark was rebuked by his membership when he was interested in adding Gonzaga. UConn makes more sense but is no slam dunk. And there might be more important business to attend to.

By RALPH D. RUSSO AP College Football WriterAs Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark steps up discussions in the conference about adding UConn, the question isn't so much why invite the Huskies as why do it now.“There has never been a better time than right now to be part of the Big 12,” Yormark said in July at Big 12 football media days.But with college sports entering a period of unprecedented transformation — superconferences, an expanded College Football Playoff and a new plan to compensate athletes — what's the rush to add a school that has conceded it needs six years to get its football program Big 12-ready?UConn athletic director David Benedict recently traveled to Dallas to pitch the Big East school to Big 12 administrators. Conference ADs and presidents heard from the league's media consultants on Monday and plan to further discuss Yormark's latest vision.To add a new member, 12 of the 16 Big 12 schools would need to be in favor. According to several people familiar with the situation who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the discussions are private, Yormark still has convincing to do among his members that adding UConn is a sound move and the Big 12 needs to act fast.The apprehension is understandable.Revenue sharingThe No. 1 priority among everyone in college sports right now is grasping the ramifications of the House v. NCAA settlement. The $2.8 billion deal to settle three federal antitrust lawsuits against the NCAA and power conferences also includes a groundbreaking plan to allow schools to share up to $21 million per year with their athletes as soon as 2025-26.A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 5, when the judge overseeing the case could grant preliminary approval. Final approval is still months away.There are scores of thorny questions about how revenue-sharing will be implemented and what impact it will have on every aspect of college sports. This is taking up a lot of time for administrators, including those in the Big 12 who haven't even watched the four newest Big 12 schools — Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah — kick off their first football seasons.The paint has not even dried on Yormark's last renovation project and he is calling for the contractors again.CFP positioningThe Big 12 is all but guaranteed a spot for its champion in the new 12-team playoff, but with the Southeastern Conference swiping Texas and Oklahoma, the conference's case for landing multiple bids is built on quality depth making up for a lack of blue-blood contenders.The plan being presented to the Big 12 on UConn calls for the Huskies' powerhouse basketball programs (17 national championships combined, including the last two men's titles) and other sports to join as soon as possible. UConn's struggling football program, currently operating as a major-college independent, would not join until 2031 after significant investment by the school.The Huskies had five winning football seasons as a member of the old Big East, but since 2011 they have reached a bowl twice and never finished better than 6-7.The Big 12 is trying to bill itself as the conference with no clunkers, a claim not even the top-heavy Big Ten can make. Even if you believe UConn can become a competent football program the way Kansas did after years of ineptitude, why bet on it sight unseen?It also should be noted that woeful Colorado was the Pac-12's Kansas for the last 15 years. For all the excitement about Deion Sanders at CU, there are still questions about whether the Buffaloes make Big 12 football better.Also, there is no line of suitors for the Huskies. The Atlantic Coast Conference probably would have interest if lawsuits by Florida State and Clemson trigger a mass exodus, but those cases are barely off the ground, with no resolution in sight.Building up basketballStill, Yormark is convinced college basketball is undervalued. Supercharging already excellent Big 12 basketball while UConn is part of a strategy to unlock that value in the next round of media rights deals.Maybe he's right, but the current deal doesn't expire until 2031.There is no doubt Yormark's wheeler-dealer instincts have been good for the Big 12 since he took over in 2022. Being proactive under Yormark is one of the reasons why the Big 12 has 16 teams and the Pac-12 currently has two.Yormark is convinced UConn is a good long-term investment for the Big 12 while swiping a potential lifeline from the ACC. Both are looking up at the Big Ten and SEC on and off the field.“Two years later, I guess you could say we’re still open for business,” Yormark said in July.Yormark was rebuked by his membership when he was interested in adding Gonzaga. UConn makes more sense but is no slam dunk. And there might be more important business to attend to.

Big 12 must ask not only why UConn, but why now

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday, reuniting with a veteran wide receiver who helped Kansas City win the Super Bowl two years ago just one day before all NFL teams must reach the 53-player roster limit.

Smith-Schuster was back in his familiar No. 9 jersey for practice as temperatures in Kansas City approached triple digits.

Smith-Schuster was released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City in 2022, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns. It ended with a trip to the Super Bowl, where Smith-Schuster caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over the Eagles.

“(Linebacker) Nick Bolton was saying he was getting treatment on the table today and said, ‘That voice is familiar,’ and looked up and he was like, ‘What’s up brother!'” Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said of Smith-Schuster. “I hear he's a great player. He and Pat (Mahomes) have great chemistry. He'll be a key addition for us.”

The Chiefs had one of the least-productive wide receiver groups in the NFL last season, when they beat the 49ers for their second straight title. They tried to rectify it by signing Marquise Brown in free agency and drafting Xavier Worthy in the first round, but Brown's availability for the start of the season is in question after he dislocated his shoulder in the preseason.

The Chiefs open the regular season against the Ravens on Sept. 5 in a rematch of the AFC championship game.

They still have Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago, but he's been dealing with legal problems in Texas. At this point, it does not appear an NFL suspension will occur before the season, but it could be handed down eventually.

Justin Watson, Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman also are likely to make the team when rosters are trimmed Tuesday, but that leaves a seventh wide receiver spot available. Kadarius Toney has dealt with penalties, mental mistakes and dropped passes in his time in Kansas City, while Justyn Ross has been unable to seize the job when given chances in the preseason.

Smith-Schuster would provide another veteran presence in an otherwise young wide receiver room. He's caught 430 passes for 5,048 yards and 30 touchdowns during seven seasons in the league, the first five of them spent with Pittsburgh.

The 27-year-old's best season was 2018, when he made the Pro Bowl with 111 catches for 1,426 yards and seven scores.

NOTES: DT Chris Jones (shoulder), OT Wanya Morris (knee) and RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (personal) were back at practice on Monday. Brown and CB Josh Williams (hamstring) did not participate, while RB Louis Rees-Zammit left early with a back issue and TE Irv Smith Jr. and RG Trey Smith left early because of the heat.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs signed wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday, reuniting with a veteran wide receiver who helped Kansas City win the Super Bowl two years ago just one day before all NFL teams must reach the 53-player roster limit.Smith-Schuster was back in his familiar No. 9 jersey for practice as temperatures in Kansas City approached triple digits.Smith-Schuster was released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City in 2022, catching 78 passes for 933 yards and three touchdowns. It ended with a trip to the Super Bowl, where Smith-Schuster caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over the Eagles.“(Linebacker) Nick Bolton was saying he was getting treatment on the table today and said, ‘That voice is familiar,’ and looked up and he was like, ‘What’s up brother!'” Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said of Smith-Schuster. “I hear he's a great player. He and Pat (Mahomes) have great chemistry. He'll be a key addition for us.”The Chiefs had one of the least-productive wide receiver groups in the NFL last season, when they beat the 49ers for their second straight title. They tried to rectify it by signing Marquise Brown in free agency and drafting Xavier Worthy in the first round, but Brown's availability for the start of the season is in question after he dislocated his shoulder in the preseason.The Chiefs open the regular season against the Ravens on Sept. 5 in a rematch of the AFC championship game.They still have Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago, but he's been dealing with legal problems in Texas. At this point, it does not appear an NFL suspension will occur before the season, but it could be handed down eventually.Justin Watson, Skyy Moore and Mecole Hardman also are likely to make the team when rosters are trimmed Tuesday, but that leaves a seventh wide receiver spot available. Kadarius Toney has dealt with penalties, mental mistakes and dropped passes in his time in Kansas City, while Justyn Ross has been unable to seize the job when given chances in the preseason.Smith-Schuster would provide another veteran presence in an otherwise young wide receiver room. He's caught 430 passes for 5,048 yards and 30 touchdowns during seven seasons in the league, the first five of them spent with Pittsburgh.The 27-year-old's best season was 2018, when he made the Pro Bowl with 111 catches for 1,426 yards and seven scores.NOTES: DT Chris Jones (shoulder), OT Wanya Morris (knee) and RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (personal) were back at practice on Monday. Brown and CB Josh Williams (hamstring) did not participate, while RB Louis Rees-Zammit left early with a back issue and TE Irv Smith Jr. and RG Trey Smith left early because of the heat.

Chiefs sign wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster

CLEVELAND (AP) —
Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs
as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of
Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 to pull within one game of first
in the AL Central. Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since
July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning and sent the Royals to
a 4-3 win in the day game. In Game 2, Perez hit a solo homer in the
fifth inning and connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth.
Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but have chipped away
at Cleveland’s lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the
break. The Guardians dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Manny Machado homered and drove in three runs, rookie Jackson Merrill
also had three RBIs and the San Diego Padres defeated the St. Louis
Cardinals 7-4. Rookie starter Randy Vásquez went six innings for the
win, allowing two runs and six hits. Machado hit a two-run homer in
the first and an RBI double in the fifth. He also scored three times.
Merrill, who launched a game-ending homer Sunday against the New York
Mets, delivered a two-run single in the third and an RBI single in
the fifth. The Padres are 25-8 since July 20, a .758 winning
percentage. That ties them with Arizona for the best record in the
majors during that span. San Diego is a game behind the Diamondbacks
for the top National League wild card.

BOSTON (AP) — Red
Sox catcher Danny Jansen became the first player in Major League
Baseball history to appear in the same game for both teams when he
took the field for Boston in the resumption of a rain-delayed game he
started for Toronto back in June. Jansen was in the Blue Jays' lineup
at catcher and batting in the second inning on June 26 when the game
was suspended. He was traded to the Red Sox last month, and on Monday
he took his position behind the plate as pinch-hitter Daulton Varsho
completed an at-bat that Jansen started.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs signed Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday,
adding a veteran wide receiver familiar with the team one day before
all NFL teams must reach the 53-player limit. Smith-Schuster was
released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his
three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City
in 2022 before that deal. Smith-Schuster caught 78 passes for 933
yards and three touchdowns while helping the Chiefs reach the Super
Bowl, where he caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over
the Eagles.

FRISCO, Texas (AP) —
Three people familiar with the deal say All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee
Lamb has ended his holdout with the Dallas Cowboys by agreeing to a
$136 million, four-year contract. Lamb is going into the last year of
his rookie contract after being drafted 17th overall in 2020. He is a
close second to Minnesota receiver Justin Jefferson as the
highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Lamb led the NFL in
receptions last season with 135 and was second in yards receiving
with 1,749 and third in touchdown receptions with 12.

CONCORD, N.C. (AP) —
Austin Dillon’s overly aggressive victory at Richmond Raceway won’t
land him a spot in the Cup Series playoffs. A NASCAR appeal officer
on Monday upheld the sanctioning body’s decision to revoke Dillon’s
automatic postseason berth that came with his controversial win at
Richmond on Aug. 11. Dillon intentionally wrecked Denny Hamlin and
Joey Logano coming out of the final turn to take the checkered flag
for his first victory in two years. Three days later, NASCAR
announced that Dillon’s victory “crossed a line.” Richard
Childress Racing appealed. A NASCAR “final appeal officer” upheld
the penalties and said race data indicated “that more likely than
not a rule violation did occur.”

UNDATED (AP) —
After years of debate over cost and liability, college football
finally has helmet communications between coach and player. Approved
this spring in the wake of a sign-stealing scandal involving former
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, coaches can relay plays to the helmet of
a designated player on either side of the ball up to 15 seconds
before the play clock expires. The move comes more than three decades
after the NFL introduced it, but some coaches believe it’s arriving
right on time. Others are fine with hand signals and those clever
signs to prevent sign stealing.

UNDATED (AP) — As
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark steps up discussions in the
conference about adding UConn, the question isn’t so much why add
the Huskies as why add them now? With college sports about to enter a
period of unprecedented transformation — superconferences, an
expanded College Football Playoff and a new plan to compensate
athletes more than ever — what’s the rush to add a school that
has conceded it needs six years to get its football program Big
12-ready? Conference ADs and presidents are scheduled to hear from
media consultants Monday and further discuss Yormark’s latest
expansion vision.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has donated
$5 million to alma mater Texas Tech to help fund a $242 million
renovation of the south end zone of Jones AT&amp;T Stadium and the
Dustin R. Womble Football Center. The school said it would name the
walkthrough area of the football center, the quarterback meeting room
and the office of the offensive coordinator after Mahomes, who played
for the Red Raiders from 2014-16. He declared for the NFL draft a
year early and the Chiefs selected him in the first round in 2017.
Mahomes has led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl titles, including the
past two.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723542041782.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) —
Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs
as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of
Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 to pull within one game of first
in the AL Central. Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since
July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning and sent the Royals to
a 4-3 win in the day game. In Game 2, Perez hit a solo homer in the
fifth inning and connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth.
Kansas City was nine games back in early July, but have chipped away
at Cleveland’s lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the
break. The Guardians dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Manny Machado homered and drove in three runs, rookie Jackson Merrill
also had three RBIs and the San Diego Padres defeated the St. Louis
Cardinals 7-4. Rookie starter Randy Vásquez went six innings for the
win, allowing two runs and six hits. Machado hit a two-run homer in
the first and an RBI double in the fifth. He also scored three times.
Merrill, who launched a game-ending homer Sunday against the New York
Mets, delivered a two-run single in the third and an RBI single in
the fifth. The Padres are 25-8 since July 20, a .758 winning
percentage. That ties them with Arizona for the best record in the
majors during that span. San Diego is a game behind the Diamondbacks
for the top National League wild card.BOSTON (AP) — Red
Sox catcher Danny Jansen became the first player in Major League
Baseball history to appear in the same game for both teams when he
took the field for Boston in the resumption of a rain-delayed game he
started for Toronto back in June. Jansen was in the Blue Jays' lineup
at catcher and batting in the second inning on June 26 when the game
was suspended. He was traded to the Red Sox last month, and on Monday
he took his position behind the plate as pinch-hitter Daulton Varsho
completed an at-bat that Jansen started.KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs signed Juju Smith-Schuster on Monday,
adding a veteran wide receiver familiar with the team one day before
all NFL teams must reach the 53-player limit. Smith-Schuster was
released from the Patriots earlier this month, one year into his
three-year, $25 million contract. He played one season in Kansas City
in 2022 before that deal. Smith-Schuster caught 78 passes for 933
yards and three touchdowns while helping the Chiefs reach the Super
Bowl, where he caught seven passes for 53 yards in a 38-35 win over
the Eagles.FRISCO, Texas (AP) —
Three people familiar with the deal say All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee
Lamb has ended his holdout with the Dallas Cowboys by agreeing to a
$136 million, four-year contract. Lamb is going into the last year of
his rookie contract after being drafted 17th overall in 2020. He is a
close second to Minnesota receiver Justin Jefferson as the
highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Lamb led the NFL in
receptions last season with 135 and was second in yards receiving
with 1,749 and third in touchdown receptions with 12.CONCORD, N.C. (AP) —
Austin Dillon’s overly aggressive victory at Richmond Raceway won’t
land him a spot in the Cup Series playoffs. A NASCAR appeal officer
on Monday upheld the sanctioning body’s decision to revoke Dillon’s
automatic postseason berth that came with his controversial win at
Richmond on Aug. 11. Dillon intentionally wrecked Denny Hamlin and
Joey Logano coming out of the final turn to take the checkered flag
for his first victory in two years. Three days later, NASCAR
announced that Dillon’s victory “crossed a line.” Richard
Childress Racing appealed. A NASCAR “final appeal officer” upheld
the penalties and said race data indicated “that more likely than
not a rule violation did occur.”UNDATED (AP) —
After years of debate over cost and liability, college football
finally has helmet communications between coach and player. Approved
this spring in the wake of a sign-stealing scandal involving former
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, coaches can relay plays to the helmet of
a designated player on either side of the ball up to 15 seconds
before the play clock expires. The move comes more than three decades
after the NFL introduced it, but some coaches believe it’s arriving
right on time. Others are fine with hand signals and those clever
signs to prevent sign stealing.UNDATED (AP) — As
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark steps up discussions in the
conference about adding UConn, the question isn’t so much why add
the Huskies as why add them now? With college sports about to enter a
period of unprecedented transformation — superconferences, an
expanded College Football Playoff and a new plan to compensate
athletes more than ever — what’s the rush to add a school that
has conceded it needs six years to get its football program Big
12-ready? Conference ADs and presidents are scheduled to hear from
media consultants Monday and further discuss Yormark’s latest
expansion vision.KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has donated
$5 million to alma mater Texas Tech to help fund a $242 million
renovation of the south end zone of Jones AT&amp;T Stadium and the
Dustin R. Womble Football Center. The school said it would name the
walkthrough area of the football center, the quarterback meeting room
and the office of the offensive coordinator after Mahomes, who played
for the Red Raiders from 2014-16. He declared for the NFL draft a
year early and the Chiefs selected him in the first round in 2017.
Mahomes has led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl titles, including the
past two.MONDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Philadelphia	3	Houston	2	Final	N.Y.
Yankees	5	Washington	2	Final	Atlanta	10	Minnesota	6	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Kansas
City	4	Cleveland	3	Final	Toronto	4	Boston	1	Final	Kansas
City	9	Cleveland	4	Final	Toronto	7	Boston	3	Final	Detroit	6	Chicago
White Sox	3	Final	Seattle	5	Tampa
Bay	1	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Chicago
Cubs	18	Pittsburgh	8	Final	San
Diego	7	St. Louis	4

Tuesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.

The Royals won the opener 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.

After being nine games back in early July, the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland’s lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the All-Star break. They can now move into a tie for the division lead with a win Tuesday.

“You couldn’t ask for any more,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “By no means does that mean anything is done. But these guys played extremely hard today after getting beaten up the last couple days (losing back-to-back blowouts to Philadelphia) and put that behind them.”

In Game 2, the 34-year-old Perez, who served as DH after catching the opener in hot conditions, hit a solo homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Tim Herrin.

The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.

“He’s remarkable,” Quatraro said. “To catch that first game he was drained, you could tell, physically and mentally. Then to go out there and put those at-bats together was remarkable.”

The Guardians, who have led the Central since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season and 1-15 the last two.

But manager Stephen Vogt doesn’t see any heads hanging.

“They’re pros,” he said. “They know it was a rough day. Every time we have a tough day, they come back ready to win. This group’s not going to get discouraged. It’s not in their DNA. They all know where we’re at.”

Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez’s shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.

José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland’s star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.

Perez’s homer in the fifth off Logan Allen (8-5) came one pitch after he caught a break.

He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor’s glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.

With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724727242980.png" alt="Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. (7) celebrates hitting a double during the third inning of the second game of a baseball doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Nick Cammett)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. (7) celebrates hitting a double during the third inning of the second game of a baseball doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Nick Cammett)</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a grand slam and drove in a career-high six runs as the Kansas City Royals completed a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland, beating the Guardians 9-4 on Monday night to pull within one game of first in the AL Central.The Royals won the opener 4-3 as Bobby Witt Jr.’s 27th homer — and 11th since July 19 — snapped a tie in the eighth inning.After being nine games back in early July, the Royals have chipped away at Cleveland’s lead by posting an AL-best 22-13 record since the All-Star break. They can now move into a tie for the division lead with a win Tuesday.“You couldn’t ask for any more,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “By no means does that mean anything is done. But these guys played extremely hard today after getting beaten up the last couple days (losing back-to-back blowouts to Philadelphia) and put that behind them.”In Game 2, the 34-year-old Perez, who served as DH after catching the opener in hot conditions, hit a solo homer in the fifth inning — after nearly striking out — and then connected for his sixth career slam in the sixth off Tim Herrin.The nine-time All-Star catcher has 17 career multi-homer games, tying him with Hall of Famer George Brett for the most in Kansas City history.“He’s remarkable,” Quatraro said. “To catch that first game he was drained, you could tell, physically and mentally. Then to go out there and put those at-bats together was remarkable.”The Guardians, who have led the Central since April 14, dropped to 0-8 in doubleheaders this season and 1-15 the last two.But manager Stephen Vogt doesn’t see any heads hanging.“They’re pros,” he said. “They know it was a rough day. Every time we have a tough day, they come back ready to win. This group’s not going to get discouraged. It’s not in their DNA. They all know where we’re at.”Leading 5-4 in the sixth, the Royals loaded the bases and had a runner forced at the plate before Perez drove his 25th homer 457 feet into the bleachers. Perez’s shot tied him with Frank White for the most slams in Royals history.José Ramírez had three doubles, giving Cleveland’s star third baseman two or more extra-base hits in 109 games to tie him with Tris Speaker for second in club history behind Earl Averill (135). Ramírez has also reached 30 homers, 30 doubles and 30 steals in a season for the second time.Perez’s homer in the fifth off Logan Allen (8-5) came one pitch after he caught a break.He fouled back a 3-2 pitch that catcher Bo Naylor appeared to snare before it hit the ground. But plate umpire John Tumpane looked into Naylor’s glove and noticed dirt on the ball, giving Perez new life.With another chance, he pulled his 24th homer into the bleachers to give Kansas City a 5-4 lead.Tumpane made the same call in the sixth, and this time Guardians pitching coach Carl Willis was ejected for arguing.Willis not only felt Perez swung and missed, but that he didn’t make contact.“I don’t think that it hit the bat,” Willis said. “They made the call they made, and the next pitch goes over the wall, then a half-inning later kind of a replay of the same scenario. That kind of set me off a little bit.”In the opener, Witt connected on a 0-1 pitch from rookie Hunter Gaddis (4-3), driving it 413 feet into the left-field bleachers.The All-Star shortstop came in batting .417 since the break, the fourth-highest average (with at least 125 at-bats) in the second half since World War II. Only Ted Williams (.454 in 1957), Ichiro Suzuki (.429, 2004) and George Brett (.421, 1980) have hit higher.It was just another noteworthy moment of many in 2024 for Witt.“He’s always present,” Quatraro said. “He doesn’t care what he’s done prior or what he’s going to do tomorrow. He’s going to be in that box and trying to beat you right there. Bobby’s a special player.”MJ Melendez belted a three-run homer and made a sensational catch in left field for the Royals in Game 1.John Schreiber (4-3) worked 1 2/3 innings and Lucas Erceg put the tying run on with a walk in the ninth before getting his fifth save since coming to Kansas City in a July 30 trade from Oakland.Reliever Nick Sandlin made his first major league start for Cleveland in the opener. The right-hander hadn’t started a game since his junior year at Southern Miss in 2018.TRAINER’S ROOM Royals: LHP Will Smith (back spasms) was placed on the 15-day injured list, one day after he allowed five runs in one inning against Philadelphia. Quatraro said Smith’s back issue has “been lingering for a while.”UP NEXT Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (2-6, 5.13 ERA) starts Tuesday against Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-6, 3.47), who threw seven scoreless innings in his most recent outing.